bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estudo comparativo entre valores teóricos e resultados experimentais de módulo de elasticidade de concretos produzidos com diferentes tipos de agregado graúdo
Authors: Santos Antonio Carlos dos , Arruda Angela Maria de , Silva Turibio José da , Vitor Paula de Carvalho Palma
Published: June 2017

Resumo O módulo de elasticidade do concreto é uma propriedade importante para os profissionais envolvidos na indústria da construção civil, uma vez que seu valor é determinante para o controle das deformações. Este trabalho avaliou o módulo de elasticidade de três classes distintas de concreto (C20, C30 e C40) produzidas com dois tipos litológicos de rochas, basalto e dolomito, de diferentes jazidas da região do Triângulo Mineiro. Como parte do estudo experimental, foram moldadas 324 amostras cilíndricas de 10 cm × 20 cm. Os valores de módulo de elasticidade obtidos foram comparados com seis formulações propostas em quatro normas, institutos e códigos do concreto: ABNT NBR 6118 versão 2007 e 2014, ACI 318, EUROCODE 2 and FIB Model Code, Ibracon 2003. Dentre as formulações propostas pelas normas, as indicadas pela FIB Model Code (2010) e ABNT NBR 6118 (2014) apresentaram valores mais próximos aos resultados experimentais deste estudo.
Insulating and fire-resistant behaviour of metakaolin and fly ash geopolymer mortars
Authors: Rashad Alaa M.
Published: June 2017

To achieve the highest thermal insulation and the lowest carbon dioxide emissions, different geopolymer mortar types with low thermal conductivity, reasonable compressive strength and high fire resistance were investigated and compared with traditional cement mortar (TCM). Two different types of aluminosilicate materials, namely metakaolin (MK) and fly ash (FA), were used as source materials. Either natural river siliceous sand or expanded perlite (EP) was used as fine aggregate. Each source material and selected fine aggregate was mixed and activated with sodium silicate. After curing, density and thermal conductivity values were measured. The compressive strengths of the mortars before and after being subjected to 600°C for 2 h was determined. The results show that it is possible to use MK-based and FA-based geopolymer mortars without adding any foaming agent as insulation and fire-resistant materials. The different geopolymer mortar types exhibited ∼33·57–73·57% lower thermal conductivity and 83·87–115% higher compressive strength than the TCM. The MK-based geopolymer mortars proved to have higher fire resistance than FA-based ones, while the FA-based geopolymer mortars proved to have higher thermal insulation than the MK-based mortars. The use of EP as fine aggregate resulted in much higher thermal insulation and better fire resistance than  siliceous sand.
Effect of post-tensioned spandrel beam on wide beam–column connections
Authors: Behnam Hamdolah , Kuang J. S. , Abdouka Kamiran
Published: June 2017

Reinforced concrete wide beam flooring systems are used increasingly in seismic regions, despite little information being available on their performance under seismic actions. This paper presents the results of a set of experiments performed on two full-scale exterior wide beam–column connections, which were tested under lateral quasi-static reversed cyclic loading. The control specimen had both longitudinal and transverse reinforcement in its spandrel beam. The second specimen was built in the same way but provided with post-tensioning force. The specimens were tested under a combination of axial force and quasi-static reversed cyclic lateral displacements. Results show that the control specimen reached its expected beam flexural capacity at a drift ratio of 3%, and then the joint shear failure and spandrel beam torsional failure controlled the behaviour. The seismic performance of the specimen with a post-tensioned spandrel beam was considerably improved compared to the control specimens. The specimen sustained a 5% drift without any significant drop in strength. No signs of joint shear failure or spandrel beam torsional failure were observed in this specimen. The results indicate that adopting a post-tensioned spandrel beam can not only prevent torsional failure, but can also improve the joint shear capacity and displacement ductility.
Microstructure of cement paste at different carbon dioxide concentrations
Authors: Pan Ganghua , Shen Qizhen , Li Jiao
Published: June 2017

Numerous studies have been performed on the carbonation model based on the boundary (carbonation front line) between the partially carbonated and non-carbonated zones. However, a significant difference exists between the traditional phenolphthalein spray test results and the prediction model results on carbonation depth. The difference is mainly caused by the partially carbonated zone. In this study, the changes in the microstructure of cement paste during the carbonation process at different carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations (0·03, 3 and 20%) were determined through the phenolphthalein spray test, thermogravimetric analysis and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). The results showed that carbonation depth and the square root of carbonation time have a linear relationship. Compared with that in the natural carbonation condition, the effect of 20% carbon dioxide concentration on the size of the partially carbonated zone was significant. However, no effect was seen for 3% carbon dioxide concentration. MIP showed that, in the same carbonation zone, low carbon dioxide concentration led to low total porosity; there was a clear refinement in the pore size and there was a high degree of carbonation.
Seguridad y justicia en el Estado de Nuevo León: Trabajo legislativo y percepción ciudadana
Authors: Tamez Gonzalez Gerardo , Leyva Cordero Oswaldo , Montalvo Herrera Daniela J.
Published: June 2017

La seguridad pública es una precondición necesaria para el desarrollo de un Estado democrático, en la atención del tema intervienen de manera directa los Poderes del Estado, cada uno desde el margen de su competencia. El presente análisis se concentra en el actuar del Poder Legislativo del Estado de Nuevo León, que a través de la Comisión de Justicia y Seguridad Pública da tránsito a las iniciativas de ley o reforma del marco jurídico vigente, destacando por un lado el extenso rezago legislativo que existe a la fecha, los temas delas iniciativas pendientes, así como sus promoventes, quienes en su mayoría son ciudadanos del Estado. Por otro lado, se señala el reto que representa la falta de confianza que tienen los ciudadanos en el marco normativo y el papel que juega el Poder Legislativo.
La ciberdefensa y su regulación legal en Argentina (2006-2015)/ The ciberdefense and its legal regulation in Argentina (2006-2015)
Authors: Cornaglia Silvina , Vercelli Ariel Hernán
Published: June 2017

En el artículo se analiza qué lugar ocupa y cómo se desarrolló la ciberdefensa dentro del sistema de defensa de la República Argentina. Para ello, se relevan y analizan las normas que se han producido sobre la temática durante el período 2006 – 2015. El estudio permite observar que dos instituciones han sido las más activas: por un lado, se destacan las regulaciones del Ministerio de Defensa y, por el otro, las regulaciones de la Jefatura de Gabinete de Ministros. La investigación tiene una doble finalidad. En primer lugar, favorecer un mayor nivel de sistematicidad legislativa en materia de ciberdefensa. En segundo lugar, producir información sustantiva para la elaboración de políticas públicas y actividades regionales de colaboración. El artículo es parte de una investigación mayor abocada al análisis de las diferentes formas de regular el ciberespacio.ABSTRACTThe article analyzes the place and how cyberdefense was developed within the defense system of República Argentina. To this end, the norms that have been produced on the subject during 2006 - 2015 are relieved and analyzed. The study shows that two institutions have been the most active: on one hand, stand out the regulations of the Ministerio de Defensa, and, on the other, the regulations of the Jefatura de Gabinete de Ministros. The research has a double purpose. Firstly, to favor a greater level of legislative systemacyin cyberdefense. Second, to produce substantive information for the elaboration of public policies and regional collaboration activities. The article is part of a larger investigation focused on the analysis of the different ways of regulating cyberspace.
Ciberseguridad. Presentación del dossier/Cybersecurity. Introduction to Dossier
Authors: Sancho Carolina
Published: June 2017

La gobernabilidad de todo sistema político requiere al menos considerar tres factores: seguridad como condición, institucionalidad como medio y desarrollo como objetivo. En este contexto, la ciberseguridad constituye una condición para permitir que los ciudadanos, las organizaciones e instituciones puedan beneficiarse del uso del ciberespacio como dimensión en la cual las relaciones sociales pueden efectuarse en forma más rápida y económica en comparación con otras formas conocidas de intercambio de información.
What’s in My Profile: VKontakte Data as a Tool for Studying the Interests of Modern Teenagers
Authors: Polivanova Katerina , Smirnov Ivan
Published: June 2017

Children’s interests play a key role in their psychological development. However, research in this field is associated with serious methodological problems, as it has traditionally used questionnaire surveys that cannot adequately describe the diverse and dynamic world of interests of a developing person. The article suggests using the information on VKontakte communities followed by teenagers, in order to explore their interests. Apart from being comprehensive, Vkontakte data is, unlike questionnaire answers, also uncensored. The method’s potential demonstrated through the example of a Moscow school with 674 students following 20,203 various VKontakte communities. It reveals that teenagers’ interests vary depending on their gender, age, and academic performance. The degree of such variance is demonstrated on an extended set of data on the interests of 290,182 VKontakte users. It transpires that communities followed by teenagers predict with high accuracy not only their gender (97%) and age (98%) but also the performance of the schools they attend (83%). The findings point to the heterogeneity of age-related behavior patterns, in particular to their correlation with gender and academic achievements. Acknowledgement of the heterogeneity of interests and the diversity of age-related behavior patterns creates conditions for the further development of student-centered education, in the absence of which education is becoming more and more alienated from real life, ignoring the  interests of real people.
What Is Wrong with the "Big Dragon" or Who and What Is Prof Yong Zhao Criticising? Foreword to the Russian Edition of Yong Zhao’s "Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Dragon? Why China Has the Best (and Worst) Education System in the World"
Authors: Yurkevich Aleksandr
Published: June 2017

Foreword to the Russian Edition of Yong Zhao’s "Who’s Afraid of the Big Bad Dragon? Why China Has the Best (and Worst) Education System in the World".
N.V. Kasatkin as a psychologist-philologist
Authors: Anoshkina V.N.
Published: June 2017

The article describes the features of the creative path of the outstanding psychologist-philologist N.V. Kasatkin, considered as a spiritually moral process of human communication. In his studies, the scientist studied monologic, dialogical speech and described their variants in a form opened by the interlocutor, singling out a particularly internal speech that turned out to be not socially isolated, but sociologized, internally communicative.
Correlation of serum TNF alpha level with severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: S. Mathanraj , Kumar Vysak , S. Yuvarajan , Reddy Vikram
Published: June 2017

Background: Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF α) is the most widely studied cytokine of TNF super family. TNF α plays a significant role in many inflammatory diseases affecting the lung, such as chronic bronchitis (CB), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Elevated levels of TNF-alpha are seen in COPD patients. An increased level of TNF-α has been found in induced sputum or lung biopsy of COPD patients. 14-16 This study includes correlation of level of TNF α with severity and characterization of individuals with COPD. There are only limited numbers of studies being conducted regarding this topic in the world, including India. Objectives of present study were to measure the TNF-α level in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and to correlate TNF α level with severity of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.Methods: The study was conducted on one hundred and eight (108) patient’s COPD patients attending the Pulmonary medicine department of Sri Manakula Vinayagar Medical College and Hospital Puducherry, who are aged above forty years, with a duration of 18 months, starting from the date of getting approval from the Ethics Committee. The subjects were analysed on their TLC, DLC was done to rule out any co-existing infections. Spirometry was done to confirm the diagnosis of COPD. Blood was taken from the confirmed COPD patients after getting their approval, for the estimation of serum TNF α level.Results: The Serum TNF alpha levels increases according to the COPD severity. The mean serum TNF alpha level in patients with mild obstruction, moderate obstruction, severe and very severe obstruction were 9.91+2.9, 21.25+4.8, 32.4+8.2 and 39.2+3.1pg/dl respectively. Mean TNF alpha value was 26.7pg/dl. The values of TNF α increases with the stages of COPD which is statistically significant with p value of 0.0001.Conclusions: The present study showed that serum TNF alpha level correlates with severity of airway obstruction in spirometry among the COPD patients. It also correlates with the disease severity as per the different stages of COPD patients (GOLD COPD staging 2016). Thus, serum TNF alpha is a useful marker to monitor the disease severity in addition to spirometric parameters like FVC, FEV1 and FEV1/FVC. However, further studies are needed with larger sample size.
Analysis of functional outcome of complex forearm injuries
Authors: Jagdev Saranjeet Singh , Pathak Subodh Kumar , Salunke Abhijeet , Maheshwari Pritam , Ughareja Prahlad
Published: June 2017

Background: Complex forearm injuries are often associated with contamination, crushing, loss of tissues and patient arrives at odd hours when specialists are not available. These injuries can lead to complications like infective non-union, stiffness, disabilities and secondary amputations.

Methods: 23 patients having complex forearm injuries treated primarily at tertiary care center by single surgeon were included in the study. Pinch strength, grip strength, residual deformity and DASH score was assessed at final follow-up. In 23 patients treated, 16 patients underwent primary internal fixation of both bone, primary external fixator was done in 4 patient, delayed fixations in 6patients, primary bone grafting in 3 patients and in 1 patient delayed bone grafting was done Skin grafting was performed in 6 cases, and flaps in 13 patients. Vascular repair was done in four patients.

Results: All 23 patients came for follow-up. An average number of surgery performed per patient was 3.81 and mean hospital stay of 28.2 days. The mean duration of follow up was 47.2 months. The average DASH score was 10.24 with average key and tip pinch and grip strength of 62.24%, 58.48% and 54.75% respectively. 3 patients had superficial infection and two patient deep infections. Superficial infections were managed with IV antibiotics. The patients with nerve and vascular injuries had higher DASH score.

Conclusions: Early wound coverage can improve functional outcomes. Training in plastic coverage of wounds using pedicle flaps and skin grafting, microsurgical nerve and vessel repairs for orthopedic surgeon can be of great help for the patients.
A Few Comments on the Brazilian Water Resource Policy
Authors: Ribeiro Márcia Maria Rios
Published: June 2017

The Brazilian Water Act was established in 1997 through the Federal Law 9433. This law represented the turning point for water management in Brazil defining its National Water Resource Policy and the National Water Resource Management System (SINGREH). Water as a public good with economic value and public participation are some of the principles defined by the Brazilian Water Act. There are three scales for water planning: national, state (since Brazil is a federation), and basin scales. The SINGREH is composed of institutions designed for implementing water management at these scales. As the country is so vast and diverse, the level of water management implementation varies a lot. Although much progress has been achieved, there are still huge challenges to be overcome by the Brazilian Water Policy and adjustments must be faced in order to better achieve effectiveness and efficiency. The decentralized and participatory approach chosen by the country in 1997 still represents, 20 years after, a difficulty and an opportunity for improving water governance in Brazil.
Potential Morbidities of Dental Infections
Authors: Preetha C. , Narendran A.
Published: June 2017

With the advent of antibiotics and the improved dental care there is decreasing incidence of odontogenic space infections. But with delayed treatment, they present challenging problems and potentially life threatening situations.
Interaction between Bone Cells in Bone Remodelling
Authors: Ashwin Chandra Veni M. , Rajathi P.
Published: June 2017

Bone forms the basic framework of the body and it consists of bone cells, ground substance and collagen fibres. The bone undergoes alternate deposition and resorption to withstand the biomechanical forces exerted. Osteoclasts, osteoblasts, osteocytes secrete numerous enzymes, cytokines, growth factors which interact among one another to perform the physiological activities taking place in bone. This article emphasizes on the secretions of osteoblast that interacts with the osteoclast precursor involved in osteoclastic stimulation and inhibition and vice versa osteoclastic activity on bone can trigger osteoblastic formation or inhibition. This interaction is explained based on 3 different modes: Direct cell-cell contact, gap junctions, diffusion of paracrine factors and the 3 phases of bone remodelling.
El deber de consulta pública previa a la expedición de reglamentos en el régimen jurídico colombiano
Authors: Gómez Velásquez Alejandro
Published: June 2017

El presente artículo aborda la figura de la consulta pública y previa a la expedición de reglamentos en el sistema jurídico colombiano. Para ello recurre al derecho comparado, a una interpretación sistemática del régimen jurídico vigente y a la jurisprudencia reciente sobre el particular, para proponer algunas líneas de acción de lege ferenda, para definir el alcance de la consulta y una propuesta interpretativa, ya de lege lata, en clave constitucional sobre la figura en cuestión. La tesis que pretende sostenerse es que a partir del marco jurídico vigente es posible predicar la existencia de la figura de forma particular para ciertos reglamentos, tal y como se establece en normas especiales, pero también en forma genérica a la luz de lo dispuesto en el artículo 8.8 CPACA. Sin embargo, debido a la forma imprecisa en que quedó redactada la figura sería deseable que el legislador se ocupe de desarrollarla o que el Consejo de Estado en su interpretación unifique sus implicaciones. Mientras ello ocurre, es posible, a la luz de una interpretación en clave constitucional de la misma, proponer ciertos parámetros para definir su alcance en la actualidad.
La violencia de género no tiene fronteras. Estudio comparativo de las normativas colombiana y española en materia de violencia de género (2004-2014)
Authors: Londoño Toro Beatriz , Rubio Leticia Olga , Castro Juan Fernando
Published: June 2017

A partir del análisis comparado sobre los sistemas normativos español y colombiano que buscan la protección de los derechos de las mujeres frente a la violencia de género, el objetivo del estudio es construir propuestas que fortalezcan los instrumentos existentes y permitan compartir las buenas prácticas normativas. Se destacan los avances en regulación y fortalecimiento institucional impulsados por las organizaciones de mujeres, se resaltan acciones que fortalecen la confianza en procedimientos, que evitan la revictimización y garantizan el cumplimiento de los marcos normativos.
La definición de nuevos estándares en materia de participación ciudadana en el sistema de evaluación de impacto ambiental
Authors: Moraga Sariego Pilar
Published: June 2017

La Ley 19.300, sobre Bases Generales del Medio Ambiente, del año 1994, brindó el primer marco legal para la protección ambiental en el país, en el contexto de la Cumbre de Río realizada dos años antes. Luego de las recomendaciones efectuadas por la OCDE en el sentido de fortalecer la institucionalidad ambiental (2005), el legislador dicta la Ley 20.417 que introduce la reforma ambiental (2010) y la Ley 20.600 que crea los tribunales ambientales (2012). La primera amplía el ámbito de aplicación de la participación ciudadana del sistema de evaluación de impacto ambiental; sin embargo, es el trabajo jurisprudencial del Segundo Tribunal Ambiental el que permitirá comprender el real alcance de la modificación legislativa. Esta judicatura especializada desarrolla nuevos estándares de participación ciudadana en el marco del proyecto de la Empresa de Ferrocarriles del Estado. Se trata de una interpretación amplia del principio en miras a una aplicación real y no únicamente formal del mismo, lo que contribuye al fortalecimiento de esta institución en relación al principio de acceso a la información y a la justicia en materia ambiental.
INDICADORES DE QUALIDADE DE VIDA NO TRABALHO PARA PROFESSORES DE INSTITUIÇÕES PÚBLICAS DE ENSINO SUPERIOR: UMA COMPARAÇÃO ENTRE BRASIL E CANADÁ
Authors: Vilas Boas Ana Alice , Morin Estelle M.
Published: June 2017

O principal objetivo desse artigo é avaliar os indicadores de qualidade de vida no trabalho (QVT) para os professores universitários e comparar os indicadores de QVT em universidades públicas no Brasil e no Canadá. A amostra deste estudo é constituída por 205 professores de Minas Gerais e 269 do Quebec. Os dados foram coletados através de um questionário online aplicado em fevereiro e março de 2013. Três diferenças significativas foram encontradas entre as duas amostras: o sentido no trabalho, comprometimento afetivo e comprometimento de continuidade. Os professores brasileiros parecem encontrar mais sentido no trabalho do que os canadenses e eles tem mais comprometimento afetivo com suas instituições.
FATORES MOTIVACIONAIS E OS IDOSOS EM ATIVIDADES LABORAIS
Authors: Trigueiro Francisco Mirialdo Chaves , Bitante Alessandra Preto , Kubo Edson Keyso de Miranda , Oliva Eduardo de Camargo
Published: June 2017

O envelhecimento da população é algo notório praticamente no mundo inteiro e no Brasil não poderia ser diferente, há estimativas que apontam que em 2050 haverá três vezes mais pessoas com mais de 60 anos no Brasil. No contexto de atividade laboral, as pesquisas apontam que os idosos que continuam a trabalhar são mais saudáveis, felizes e ativos, desenvolvendo menos doenças e ainda colaborando com a sociedade. Para este estudo foi feita uma pesquisa descritiva de natureza quantitativa, baseada em uma pesquisa de campo, no município de São Caetano do Sul, que possui um programa voltado para a Terceira Idade intitulado “Experiência em Ação”, onde os idosos continuam a trabalhar em áreas como educação, com funções de apoio e recebem benefícios, como salário e cesta básica para complementar a sua renda. A maioria dos participantes da pesquisa foi do sexo feminino, que indica maior longevidade das mulheres.
Fair: A Hadoop-based Hybrid Model for Faculty Information Retrieval System
Authors: Dubey Harishchandra
Published: June 2017

In era of ever-expanding data and knowledge, we lack a centralized system that maps all the faculties to their research works. This problem has not been addressed in the past and it becomes challenging for students to connect with the right faculty of their domain. Since we have so many colleges and faculties this lies in the category of big data problem. In this paper, we present a model which works on the distributed computing environment to tackle big data. The proposed model uses apache spark as an execution engine and hive as database. The results are visualized with the help of Tableau that is connected to Apache Hive to achieve distributed computing.
Can a Network Attack Be Simulated in an Emulated Environment for Network Security Training?
Authors: Chapman Samuel , Smith Richard , Maglaras Leandros , Janicke Helge
Published: June 2017

This paper outlines a tool developed with the purpose of creating a simple configurable emulated network environment that can be used in cyber defence exercises. Research has been conducted into the various related subject areas: cyber defence exercises, network threats, network emulation, network traffic replay, network topologies, and common network services. From this research a requirements specification was produced to encapsulate the features required to create this tool. A network, containing many of the aspects researched, was designed and implemented using Netkit-NG to act as a blueprint for the tool and to further knowledge in the construction of an emulated network. Following this the tool was developed and tested to ensure requirements were met.
Molecular interactions of autophagy with the immune system and cancer
Authors: Hong Yonggeun , Jin Yunho , Hong Yunkyung , Park Chanyoung
Published: June 2017

Autophagy is a highly conserved catabolic mechanism that mediates the degradation of damaged cellular components by inducing their fusion with lysosomes. This process provides cells with an alternative source of energy for the synthesis of new proteins and the maintenance of metabolic homeostasis in stressful environments. Numerous studies have demonstrated beneficial roles for the induction as well as the suppression of autophagy in cancer cells. Autophagy may induce either survival or death depending on the cell/tissue type. Radiation therapy is widely used therapeutic option to treat cancer, and it induces autophagy in human cancer cell line. Also, melatonin seems to affect cancer cell death via regulation of programmed cell death. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of autophagy and its regulation in cancer.
Effectiveness on Early Childhood Caries of an Oral Health Promotion Program for Medical Providers
Authors: Braun Patricia A. , Widmer-Racich Katina , Sevick Carter , Starzyk Erin J. , Mauritson Katya , Hambidge Simon J.
Published: June 2017

Objectives. To assess an oral health promotion (OHP) intervention for medical providers’ impact on early childhood caries (ECC).

Methods. We implemented a quasiexperimental OHP intervention in 8 federally qualified health centers that trained medical providers on ECC risk assessment, oral examination and instruction, dental referral, and fluoride varnish applications (FVAs). We measured OHP delivery by FVA count at medical visits. We measured the intervention’s impact on ECC in 3 unique cohorts of children aged 3 to 4 years in 2009 (preintervention; n = 202), 2011 (midintervention; n = 420), and 2015 (≥ 4 FVAs; n = 153). We compared numbers of decayed, missing, and filled tooth surfaces using adjusted zero-inflated negative binomial models.

Results. Across 3 unique cohorts, the FVA mean (range) count was 0.0 (0), 1.1 (0–7), and 4.5 (4–7) in 2009, 2011, and 2015, respectively. In adjusted zero-inflated negative binomial models analyses, children in the 2015 cohort had significantly fewer decayed, missing, and filled tooth surfaces than did children in previous cohorts.

Conclusions. An OHP intervention targeting medical providers reduced ECC when children received 4 or more FVAs at a medical visit by age 3 years.
Irreducible Ankle Fracture from an Interposed Chaput Fragment
Authors: Lee Chihua , Douglas Thomas J.
Published: June 2017

Case:

A 23-year-old active-duty military service member sustained an unusual irreducible fracture-dislocation of the ankle joint. Preoperative computed tomography showed an anterolateral tibial (Chaput) fragment entrapped within the distal syndesmosis, preventing adequate reduction. An open reduction of the fragment was performed in the operating room, which allowed near-anatomic reduction and internal fixation of the tibiotalar joint. At the 21-month follow-up visit, the patient remained on active duty in the Navy without limitations.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this rare injury pattern, an interposed Chaput fragment preventing closed reduction of the syndesmosis in a skeletally mature patient, has not previously been described in the literature. An open reduction and internal fixation of the Chaput fragment allowed near-anatomic reduction of the tibiotalar joint.
Teacher-teacher and teacher-principal collaborations in the public schools of Albanian educational pre-university system
Authors: Nathanaili Dr.Sc. Valbona
Published: June 2017

This paper aims to measure the degree of teacher-teacher and teacher-principal collaborations, in the public schools of Albanian educational pre-university system, and a second aim is to evaluate the relationship, - if any exists, - between those collaborations and school performance, too. The study has quantitative nature and is based on a questionnaire with 13 articles. The questionnaire is compiled by the author, based on the literature. The questionnaire is with self-report, based on the perceptions that teachers have regarding those collaborations. It is fulfilled by teachers, in-service full time, that teach at 20 public schools in the pre-university educational system in Albania, respectively in Tirana, Kamëz, Elbasan and Shkodra. The schools were chosen based on the performance criteria: schools with highest performance and schools with lowest performance. Teacher-teacher collaboration is evaluated through 7 articles (N=7, Cronbach’s Alpha=.802); teacher-principal collaboration is evaluated through 6 articles (N=6, Cronbach’s Alpha=.812). For symmetry reasons, the questionnaires for evaluation of both collaborations are constructed in similar manner, based on the philosophy of councils that teachers and principals give and take with each-other. Teachers’ self‐reported collaboration was measured by a scale from 1 to 5 (Never 1; Rarely 2; Sometimes 3; Often 4; Always 5). The data are analysed through SPSS. According to data, teachers report a higher scale of collaboration with their colleagues and a lower scale of collaboration with their principals: teacher-teacher collaboration is higher for issues related with students’ behaviour and lower for issues related with the school curricula or school aims; teacher-principal collaboration is higher for issues related with students’ behaviour and lower for issues related with their profession. From the data, there is not any statistically significant difference between level of collaboration and school performance, which stands for the high degree of teacher atomization at school. One important conclusion is that principals have a small portion of decision-making for important issues that influence directly school performance.
Self Optimizing Thermal Field Using Beam Pumps with Variable Speed Drive.
Authors: Abdullah Alwazeer , Luis Vargas Rojas , Antonio Andrade Marin , Angus Mackay , Haytham Rady , Khalid Salhi , Dimas Lopez Parada , Amur Habsi , Khadija Shaqsi , Shehu Abdurrahman , Kevin D'Amours
Published: June 2017

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) methods are on the rise and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) has successfully embarked on several projects including thermal recovery. Thermal EOR operations require rapid response and adaptation to the dynamic thermal conditions inherent within the reservoir. The challenges associated with Cyclic Steam Stimulation (CSS) necessitated a creative solution to maximize recovery and improve well management. A fit for purpose algorithm was developed to add flexibility while operating the well in combination with the Variable Speed Drive (VSD). An automation algorithm was developed to optimize oil recovery and accelerate peak oil throughout the CSS production cycle. This algorithm maximized inflow potential by creating a low fluid level above the pump and maintaining near pumped-off conditions. The project was named Beam Lift Auto Delivery Evolution (BLADE).

Live control of the pumping unit provides equipment safe guarding while ensuring continuous operation within the defined envelope. This is achieved by applying real time assessment of pump fillage and temperature conditions. This approach optimized production while maintaining adequate fillage, thereby increasing operations efficiency and prolonging pump life.

Within a thermal environment, enhanced automation provides the additional advantage of steam break through mitigation. The mitigation improves pump efficiency and prevents pump gas lock. This algorithm provided a unique advantage within this thermal operation by adapting to varying viscosities impacting inflow throughout the production phase.

Thermal CSS requires continuous monitoring and rapid reaction time to adapt to the dynamic conditions inherent to the CSS operation. The BLADE project has demonstrated that utilization of carefully designed logic in conjunction with robust field steaming strategy, not only improved field recovery but also significantly reduced manpower demand by 20% and decreased the total EOR cost.
Differential Nitrogen‐15 Labeling of Dairy Manure Components for Nitrogen Cycling Studies
Authors: Powell J. Mark , Wu Zhiguo , Kelling Keith , Cusick Paul , Muñoz Gabriela
Published: June 2017

Current estimates of dairy manure nitrogen availability to crops are based on indirect measures and vary greatly. The objective of this study was to differentially label dairy manure N components with the stable isotope 15N for direct measurement of manure N cycling in soils and availability to crops. Dairy urine and fecal N components (microbial and undigested feed N) were differentially labeled by feeding either 15N‐enriched forage or urea to mature dry dairy cows (Bos taurus). Nitrogen‐15–enriched ammonium sulfate was used to label alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) hay and corn (Zea mays L.) silage. These 15N‐enriched forages or either single or multiple doses of 15N‐enriched urea were fed for 2 to 3 d, and feces and urine were collected separately for 8 d after the initiation of 15N feeding. For both labeling techniques, 15N appeared first in urine followed by fecal microbial and undigested feed N. For the forage method, the proportionate combination of feces excreted before and after peak 15N excretion levels would achieve uniform labeling of fecal N components. For the urea method, no undigested feed N in feces was labeled since 15N‐enriched forage N was not fed. The choice of which labeling method to use depends on the intended use of labeled manure. Manure enriched using the forage method and high levels of manure 15N enrichments should be used for long‐term manure N cycling studies. Manure enriched using the urea method and lower 15N enrichments could be used in shorter‐term studies.
Seed Size and Seeding Depth Influence on Canola Emergence and Performance in the Northern Great Plains
Authors: Lamb Kenneth E. , Johnson Burton L.
Published: June 2017

Dramatic increases in canola (Brassica napus L.) production in the Northern Great Plains and lack of regional research prompted evaluating seeding depth and seed size effects on crop performance. Seedling emergence and yield of four seed size categories of an open‐pollinated and a hybrid cultivar were evaluated at 25‐ and 50‐mm seeding depths at Casselton and Prosper, ND, in 1999 and 2000. The study was a randomized complete block design with a 2 × 8 factorial arrangement of seeding depth and genotype seed size (GS) category. Agronomic characters evaluated included pure live seed emergence (PLSE), flower initiation and duration, seed yield, seed oil concentration, plant lodging, and white mold [Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (Lib.) de Bary]. The environment × depth interaction for PLSE indicated 24 to 41% lower PLSE from the deeper seeding depth at three environments; however, PLSE was not influenced by seeding depth at one environment. Genotype seed size treatments did not influence PLSE. The hybrid GS treatments produced 26% greater yield than the open‐pollinated GS treatments when averaged across environments. White mold incidence was 4.5 times greater from stands at the 25‐ than 50‐mm depth, at one environment, because of high PLSE that enhanced disease development. Seed yield and oil concentration, plant height, and lodging were not affected by GS treatments. Although seeding at the 50‐mm depth reduced PLSE, yield may be maintained provided sufficient stands exist. However, due to the uncertainty in stands from deep seeding, the recommendation would be not to seed deeper than 25 mm.
Effects of Nitrogen Fertilization Rate, Stockpiling Initiation Date, and Harvest Date on Canopy Height and Dry Matter Yield of Autumn‐Stockpiled Bermudagrass
Authors: Scarbrough D. A. , Coblentz W. K. , Coffey K. P. , Harrison K. F. , Smith T. F. , Hubbell D. S. , Humphry J. B. , Johnson Z. B. , Turner J. E.
Published: June 2017

Autumn stockpiling is a management technique in which forage is allowed to accumulate throughout the late summer and early fall for subsequent grazing throughout the late fall and winter. Well‐established stands of common and ‘Tifton 44’ bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] located at Fayetteville and Batesville, AR, respectively, were chosen to evaluate the effects of stockpiling initiation date (August or September) and N fertilization rate (0, 37, 74, or 111 kg N ha−1) on the canopy height and dry matter (DM) yield potential of autumn‐stockpiled bermudagrass forage. Within year, DM yield increased linearly (P ≤ 0.008) with N fertilization rate at Fayetteville in 2001 and in Batesville during both years. For August initiation dates, DM yield declined linearly (P ≤ 0.007) with harvest date at both sites during both years; however, cubic responses (P ≤ 0.024) also were observed at both sites in 2000 but not (P ≥ 0.076) in 2001. For September initiation dates, DM yield exhibited less consistent patterns over harvest dates, but responses were cubic (P ≤ 0.053) over time for all four site‐years. Tests of homogeneity for regressions of DM yield on canopy height for individual site‐years indicated there were differences for the intercepts (P < 0.001) and linear coefficients (P < 0.001) and a tendency for the quadratic coefficients (P = 0.063) to differ. Quadratic equations are not suitable for producer use; therefore, a combined linear model for all data (N = 512) was determined, Y = 146X − 838 (P < 0.001; r2 = 0.762), which may address the need for a quick estimator of available forage.
Distribution of Legumes along Gradients of Slope and Soil Electrical Conductivity in Pastures
Authors: Guretzky John A. , Moore Kenneth J. , Burras C. Lee , Brummer E. Charles
Published: June 2017

Legumes establish and persist on backslope landscape positions but fail on summits and toeslopes in southeastern Iowa pastures, suggesting that these pastures be managed site specifically. Visual delineation of landscape positions, however, can be difficult, and characterization of spatial variability through soil sampling is expensive. Creation of digital elevation models (DEM) and apparent soil electrical conductivity (ECa) mapping are inexpensive alternatives to describing field conditions. Our objective was to examine the relationship of DEM‐derived slope, soil ECa, and legume distribution in pastures. We examined these relationships across four 1.4‐ha pastures. Each pasture was divided into 0.46‐ha plots that were assigned one of three stocking treatments: continuous, rotational, and nongrazed. We found that legumes, as a percentage of pasture cover, were greatest at 15 to 20% slopes and intermediate values of soil ECa. The absolute ECa value at which legumes were maximized varied by plot within each stocking system and year ECa was measured. When ECa was standardized by pasture and year, however, a nonlinear response curve explained 23 to 42% of the variation of legume cover across the plots. Grazing reduced competition from smooth brome (Bromus inermis Leyss.) and reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinacea L). These grasses dominated at 0 to 8% slopes and where ECa was either low or high in value. We concluded that slope and soil ECa data are useful in identifying sites where legumes are successful in pastures and showed potential for use in site‐specific management of pastures.
White Lupin Performance and Nutritional Value as Affected by Planting Date and Row Spacing
Authors: Bhardwaj Harbans L. , Hamama Anwar A. , van Santen Edzard
Published: June 2017

White lupin (Lupinus albus L.) is a potential alternative winter grain legume crop for the mid‐Atlantic region of the United States. However, information about suitable production technology and nutritional quality of lupin grown in this region is unavailable. We studied the performance of a determinate cultivar (Lucyanne) and an indeterminate cultivar (Lunoble) during 1998–1999 and 1999–2000 growing seasons to identify optimum planting time and row spacing and to examine the nutritional quality of lupin. Three row spacings (0.3, 0.6, and 0.9 m) were evaluated in each of the three planting dates: early October, late October, and mid‐November. The indeterminate cultivar was taller and had a 26% higher seed yield (4.8 Mg ha−1) than the determinate cultivar (3.8 Mg ha−1). A delay in planting time from early October to late October or mid‐November decreased both seed yield (5.6, 4.1, and 3.2 Mg ha−1, respectively) and plant height (0.77, 0.64, and 0.53 m, respectively). The highest seed yield (5.9 Mg ha−1) was recorded for the row spacing of 0.3 m. Row spacing did not affect seed size or plant height. Cultivar, planting date, and row‐spacing effects on protein and sugar concentrations were not significant. Delayed planting reduced, whereas narrow row spacing increased, oil concentration. The mean protein, sugar, and oil contents in Virginia‐grown lupin seed were 347, 73, and 75 g kg−1, respectively. These preliminary experiments indicated that indeterminate cultivar had a yield advantage over the determinate cultivar, the optimal planting time was early October, and the optimal row spacing was 0.3 m.
UM MODELO DE PREVISÃO DA POTÊNCIA ELÉTRICA EXTRAÍDA DE UMA TURBINA EÓLICA
Authors: Celeste Wanderley Cardoso , Quintas Bernardino Joaquim , Lima William Vasconcelos Ferreira , Rocha Hélder Roberto de Oliveira , Coura Daniel José Custódio
Published: June 2017

A crescente demanda por energia tem exigido o desenvolvimento tecnológico para explorar novas fontes de energia renováveis. Nesse cenário, a energia eólica tem sido uma das mais utilizadas. Conhecer a dinâmica de funcionamento de sistemas/dispositivos que permitam a conversão de um tipo de energia para a energia elétrica é de fundamental importância para o desenvolvimento de tecnologias que tornem a exploração de tais fontes viável. Logo, este trabalho é dedicado ao levantamento experimental da curva de potência de um aerogerador de pequeno porte acionado por um túnel de vento. Tal plataforma foi projetada originalmente para demonstrações didáticas, porém foi convertida, neste trabalho, em uma plataforma experimental agregando-lhe um módulo de aquisição de dados de entrada e de saída, os quais são medidos por sensores específicos. Técnicas de pré-processamento de sinais e de identificação de sistemas foram aplicadas, a fim de obter um modelo preciso da curva de potência do sistema em função da velocidade do fluxo de vento incidente. Os resultados mostram que um modelo baseado em regressão linear para 12 intervalos é suficiente para uma boa previsão da potência extraída do aerogerador na faixa de 0 a 12 m/s.
Screening for Risk Factors of Cardiometabolic Disease Among Female University Students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Olabiji Toriola Oluwatoyin
Published: June 2017

Background:

Prevalence of cardiometabolic diseases (CMD), especially among the youth, is a growing public health concern in both developed and developing countries.

Objective:

To examine cardiovascular and metabolic disease risk factors among a cohort of female university students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Method:

Two hundred and twenty-three (223) female students aged 17-25 years participated in the study. Both physical and physiological parameters were assessed using standard procedures and equipment. The study also evaluated the extent to which body mass index (BMI) could predict CMD risk factors among the participants. Alpha level was set at α =0.05.

Results:

The results showed that 22.4%, 8.5% and 11.2% of the women were overweight, obese, and underweight, respectively. Hemodynamic results indicated that of those overweight and obese, 9.4%and 21.1% were pre-hypertensive, respectively, while only 3 (1.3%) were hypertensive. Blood glucose results showed that 30 (13.5%) participants were pre-diabetic. Also, the BMI for overweight (26.9±1.54 kg/m2)and obese (33.5±3.17 kg/m2) categories indicated participants at the risk of CMD. Further analysis showed a statistically significant correlation between BMI and the following dependent measures: systolic (r = 0.352, p = 0.001) and diastolic (r = 0.136, p = 0.043) BP, waist circumference (r = 0.791, p = 0.001), and fasting blood glucose (r = 0.157, p = 0.019). BMI and age yielded a non-significant association (r = 0.023, p = 0.728). Results of adjusted regression coefficients indicated that BMI accounted for 65.6% of the variance in the women’s physiological variables.

Conclusion:

It was concluded that although many of the women screened had healthy CMD risk profiles, a few presented with excessively high levels which require follow-up clinical investigation and intervention. The need to undertake large scale surveillance of CMD risk factors among this relatively less studied population is recommended as it will promote early detection of risk profiles and health enhancing behaviours among the youth.
DEFLUORIDATION TECHNIQUES- A CRITICAL REVIEW
Authors: Mobeen Nausheen , Kumar Pradeep
Published: June 2017

Fluoride in drinking water plays a vital role in dental health. Due to excessive fluoride in water, enamel loses its luster. At lower concentration, it guards our teeth against cavities but at higher concentrations imparts fluorosis in varying concentrations. Excess fluoride in drinking water is reported from more than 35 countries around the globe with India and China. In countries like India, the severe contamination of drinking water with excess fluoride acquired the dimensions of a social economic rather than a public health problem triggering defluoridation research.