bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alliteration strategy In Contemporary Architecture
Authors: Al-majidi Basim Hasan Hashim
Published: March 2018

The contemporary ideas were characterized by the abundance and diversity of their knowledge, human and conceptual production, the strategy is both a general and a detailed framework covering all design disciplines both inside and outside the field of architecture. From here, many of these terraces emerged from fields outside the field of architecture, but soon moved to form an important nerve within the field of architecture. Hence the need to define a more comprehensive framework for studying one of the concepts that can frame the framework, namely the concept of "Alliteration", and its adoption as an architectural design strategy aimed at giving the resulting form a feature of rhetoric. So the research highlighted the "scientific need to clarify knowledge about the concept of alliteration as a strategy in the design process". The aim of the research is to "clarify the knowledge about the concept of alliteration as a strategy in the design process and to reveal its mechanisms through which it can reach a contemporary architectural form characterized by rhetoric. The research approach represents several procedures to achieve the goal of research and solving the problem of research through the construction of a theoretical framework and the development of the main and secondary vocabulary after the introduction of previous cognitive studies to the selection of samples for application, then discuss, analyze the results and conclusions. Which explained that the strategy of the alliteration enables the reading of the text of the architect within the objectives of both the designer and the recipient of the product, by combining similar systems in form and content, and the integration of properties, reducing the number of words and expand their participation of recipients as a result of reliance on subjective references within the field of architecture.
Hubungan antara perawatan payudara dengan kejadian bendungan asi (engorgement) pada ibu nifas
Authors: Meihartati Tuti
Published: March 2018

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine therelationship between breast care to the occurrence of engorgementat Poskesdes Sumber Baru Sub district Angsana Tanah BumbuRegency. The type of this research is analytic survey with crosssectional approach. The population in this study were allpostpartum mothers who experienced engorgement. The numberof samples were 63 respondents. Data analysis using chi-squaretest. The results of the study were 38 respondents. (66.3%) wererespondents who performed breast care, and 38 respondents(66.3%) did not have engorgement. Obtained a value of P 0.001that there is a relationship between breast care with the incidenceof engorgement. The conclusion that there is a relationship betweenbreast care with the occurrence of engorgement.
Hubungan tingkat pendidikan formal dengan parenting self-efficacy periode awal nifas pada ibu pasca sectio caesarea
Authors: Pramudianti Domas Chandra , Raden Abkar , Suryaningsih Endang Koni
Published: March 2018

Abstract: The research aimsto determine the relationship of the levelof formal education with parenting self-efficacy in the early period ofpostnatal maternal post Sectio Caesarea(SC).The methods is anobservational study with cross sectional design. The study populationincludes all mothers post SC in RSIA â€˜Aisyiyah Klaten and DelangguPKU Muhammadiyah Hospital, the subject of the study involved 66people. Samples were selected purposively to the inclusion criteriaof exclusion. Data analysis using Spearman Rank at the 95% confidencelevel. The results is level of formal education have a meaningfulrelationship with parenting self-efficacy in the early postnatal periodwith a value of p = 0.000 (p <0.05).Keywords: formal education, parenting self-efficacy
A Study of Investors’ Attitude towards Mutual fund in Kathmandu City, Nepal
Authors: Bajracharya Rajan Bilas
Published: March 2018

Mutual fund is an investment tool which assembles the savings of millions of small investors into huge capital formation. The primary goal behind investment in mutual fund is to earn goods return with comparatively low risk. The main purpose of doing this research is to find out a relationship between selected demographic and socioeconomic characteristics and investors’ attitude towards mutual. Another purpose of this research was to rank different sources investors use to make investment decision on the basis on their preference. By using Likert scale (0 to 1) and three levels (positive, neutral, negative) in structured questionnaire, researchers have measured the level of attitude towards mutual fund and levels of preference of sources are to investment decision. It is found that, the investors attitude is not independent towards mutual fund on the basis of demographic and socio economic variable (age, gender, monthly income, investment level, educational qualification). Also, among selected sources, investors provide their highest preference to Brokers/Agents to make investment. The study has suggested some important policy measures such as regulatory change, creating investors awareness, encouraging the private companies to raise fund through mutual fund.
Prevalence of Behavioral Risk Factors of Non Communicable Diseases among Adolescents of Higher Secondary Schools of Lalitpur District in Nepal
Authors: Shrestha Soni , Paudel Radha Kumari , Shrestha Nisha
Published: March 2018

Non Communicable Diseases are the biggest cause of death worldwide. There are eight major risk factors, out of which four of them are behavioral risk factors (tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity) and four of them are biological risk factors. The general objective of this study is to assess prevalence of behavioral risk factors of non-communicable diseases among adolescents. The study was conducted on students of higher secondary schools of Lalitpur. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with the sample size 396. Structured questionnaire developed by STEPS SURVEY Nepal 2013 was used for data collection. Data management, analysis and interpretation were done using SPSS 20 version by calculating frequency and percentage. The prevalence of current tobacco (smoking) consumption was 17.2% and the prevalence of smokeless tobacco consumption was 8.1%. Current alcohol consumption was 14.4%. The prevalence of inadequate vigorous intensity activity was 58.3% and moderate intensity activity was 50.5%. The prevalence of fruit and vegetables consumption was 21.2% and 60.4% respectively. On the basis of findings of study it is concluded that use of tobacco products and alcohol was higher in male than female. All of the students consumed fruits and vegetables at least once a day but none of adolescents follow the consumption of fruits and vegetables as recommended by WHO. The adolescents were active as they involved in both vigorous and moderate intensity activity. The private schools students were less involved in physical activity as compared to public schools.
Authority of Final Decision in Household Activities: Gender Perspective in Nepalese Society
Authors: Shrestha Anita , Gartoulla Ritu Prasad
Published: March 2018

Gender plays the significant role in decision making process in all types of society. Decision makers should have good leadership skill as well as should have adequate knowledge of concerned issue. In Nepalese society, decision is taken by the household head; either husband or wife. The study aims to identify the authority of final decision in household activities from the gender perspective in Nepalese society. The study was conducted among the 390 respondents of five ethnic groups: Newar, Magar, Tamang, Rai and Brahama/Chettri of Kathmandu valley. Simple random sampling technique was adopted to select the respondent considering the equal participation of male and female from all ethnic communities. The result shows that there was no significant difference in all ethnic groups regarding their participation in all types of decision making process.
Binary Opposition of Eros and Thanatos in Wordsworth’s "The Rainbow"
Authors: Datta Vijay Kumar , Pandey Beerendra
Published: March 2018

William Wordsworth’s most quintessential, oeuvre-defining ode—“The Rainbow”—is unjustifiably under-commented in literary criticisms on the British Romantic poet. Plugging this critical gap, an attempt has been made to make a full-fledged critical analysis of the dynamics of the Freudian concepts of eros and thanatos in the poem. This analysis has been undertaken to make the argument that the dialectical play, which is finally resolved in favour of life-drive, helps sustain the poet’s life-long joyful communion with Nature, despite the threats of trauma and tentativeness to bog him down.
Association of Androgenetic Alopecia with Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia: A Case Control Study
Authors: Chaudhary Manoj Kumar , Agrawal Sudha , Agrawal Chandra Shekhar
Published: March 2018

Introduction: Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is associated with increased risk of several systemic diseases and some environmental factors, however, controversies exist. Since AGA and Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) share common pathogenesis and AGA manifests some decades before BPH onset, it may serve as an early marker of BPH.Objective: This study was conducted to know AGA and its association with BPH in men ≥20 years of age.Materials and Methods: Clinically diagnosed cases of AGA (n=176) and 117 age matched healthy controls were enrolled. All cases and controls were subjected for abdomino-pelvic ultrasonography, urinary flowmetry, fasting lipid profiles, glycemic index and body mass index. International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) was also assessed.Results: Among 176 patients, 120 (68.18%) had Hamilton-Norwood grade III AGA and 56 (31.82%) had grade IV-VII AGA. In both groups, 140 (79.55%) cases and 93 (79.49%) controls were aged <35 years respectively. Family history of AGA was present in 108 (61.36%) cases and 2 (1.71%) controls. This observation was statistically significant with OR= 89.61 (95%CI 23.67-339.29). Three (1.7%) cases and none of the controls had prostate volume >30ml. Seventeen(9.66%) cases and 4 (3.42%) controls were graded as moderately/severely symptomatic IPSS. Statistically significant association was seen between family history and early onset of hair loss (<35 years) in a male sibling or parent.Conclusion: Although positive family history was associated with early onset of AGA, no association between AGA and BPH could be elicited in our study.
Periorbital Hyperpigmentation: Overcoming the Challenges in the Management
Authors: Agrawal Sudha
Published: March 2018

Periorbital hyperpigmentation, also referring as dark circles or periorbital melanosis, is not a medical problem but can be a significant cosmetic concern for a large number of individuals and they try to find a treatment for this condition. This condition affects individuals in a wide range of ages, both sexes and all races. The therapeutic approach must vary with cause as it is multifactorial. Possible causes include excessive pigmentation, volume loss, skin laxity, tear trough, increased prominence and density of subcutaneous vasculature and orbital structural problem. Treatment modalities include topical bleaching agents, chemical peeling, and lasers, injectable fillers, fat transfer, high intensity focused ultrasound and surgery as monotherapy or in combination therapy to target the contributing factors of periorbital hyperpigmentation.
Paraneoplastic Pemphigus Presenting as Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis: A Case Report
Authors: Padhiyar Jignaben K , Patel Nayankumar H , Ninama Kishan , Bilimoria Freny E , Mahajan Rashmi , Gajjar Trusha , Buch Mansi
Published: March 2018

Polymorphous skin lesions have classically been described in paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP), but it can present as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) though this type of presentation is extremely rare. We report a case of PNP presenting as TEN in a young male patient. Patient had history of fever and diarrhoea six weeks before starting of lesions in oral cavity, for which he was treated with injectable medicines. Then patient developed generalized necrosis and peeling of skin with involvement of conjunctiva, oropharynx and genital mucosa. For this, the patient was given intravenous dexamethasone considering it as TEN, but after transient improvement initially skin lesions recurred when dose of dexamethasone was reduced. On seventh day, patient developed few circular deep ulcers over arms and back. Nikolsky sign was positive with tzanck smear showing acantholytic cells. Hence, we added PNP as one of the differential diagnosis. On further investigations patient was found to have B cell lymphoma in mediastinum and skin biopsy and direct immunofluorescence were confirmative of PNP. Unfortunately, patient then succumbed to death due to multiorgan failure and electrolyte imbalance. The onset of PNP can be as acute as TEN and clinical picture being initially undistinguishable, high index of suspicion is required in diagnosis.
Pyoderma Gangrenosum with Positive Antinuclear Antibody, in the Absence of Systemic Association
Authors: Shrestha Smriti , Aryal Alisha
Published: March 2018

Pyoderma gangrenosum is an uncommon neutrophilic dermatosis, seen on legs, and infrequently on hands and other anatomical sites. It is associated with systemic diseases in 50-70% of the cases. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) seropositivity has been reported in pyoderma gangrenosum associated with connective tissue disorders. However, there are very few case reports of pyoderma gangrenosum in patients of systemic lupus erythematosus, while we did not find any reports of ANA seropositivity in isolated pyoderma gangrenosum. Hence, we report this unique case of pyoderma gangrenosum with classical clinicohistopathology, positive ANA but no systemic association. As anticipated, our patient responded promptly to steroids.
Spontaneous occult intracranial hypotension precipitating life-threatening cerebral venous thrombosis: case report
Authors: Perry Avital , Graffeo Christopher S. , Brinjikji Waleed , Copeland William R. , Rabinstein Alejandro A. , Link Michael J.
Published: March 2018

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is an uncommon headache etiology, typically attributable to an unprovoked occult spinal CSF leak. Although frequently benign, serious complications may occur, including cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT). The objective of this study was to examine a highly complicated case of CVT attributable to SIH as a lens for understanding the heterogeneous literature on this rare complication, and to provide useful, evidence-based, preliminary clinical recommendations. A 43-year-old man presented with 1 week of headache, dizziness, and nausea, which precipitously evolved to hemiplegia. CT venography confirmed CVT, and therapeutic heparin was initiated. He suffered a generalized seizure due to left parietal hemorrhage, which subsequently expanded. He developed signs of mass effect and herniation, heparin was discontinued, and he was taken to the operating room for clot evacuation and external ventricular drain placement. Intraoperatively, the dura was deflated, suggesting underlying SIH. Ventral T-1 CSF leak was identified, which failed multiple epidural blood patches and required primary repair. The patient ultimately made a complete recovery. Systematic review identified 29 publications describing 36 cases of SIH-associated CVT. Among 31 patients for whom long-term neurological outcome was reported, 25 (81%) recovered completely. Underlying coagulopathy/risk factors were identified in 11 patients (31%). CVT is a rare and potentially lethal sequela occurring in 2% of SIH cases. Awareness of the condition is poor, risking morbid complications. Evaluation and treatment should be directed toward identification and treatment of occult CSF leaks. Encouragingly, good neurological outcomes can be achieved through vigilant multidisciplinary neurosurgical and neurocritical care.
Intraoperative monitoring with visual evoked potentials for brain surgeries
Authors: Gutzwiller Eveline M. , Cabrilo Ivan , Radovanovic Ivan , Schaller Karl , Boëx Colette
Published: March 2018

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study was to determine the performance of intraoperative visual evoked potentials (VEPs) in detecting visual field changes.

METHODS

Assessments of VEPs were performed with simultaneous retinal responses by using white light-emitting diodes protected from scialytic microscope lights. The alarm criterion was a reproducible decrease in amplitude of the VEP P100 wave of 20% or more. Visual fields were assessed preoperatively and 1 month postsurgery (Goldmann perimetry).

RESULTS

The VEPs were analyzed for 29 patients undergoing resection of a brain lesion. In 89.7% of patients, steady VEP and retinal responses were obtained for monitoring. The absence of alarm was associated in 94.4% of cases with the absence of postoperative visual changes (specificity). The alarms correctly identified 66.7% of cases with any postoperative changes and 100% of cases with changes more severe than just a discrete quadrantanopia or deterioration of an existing quadrantanopia (sensitivity, new diffuse deterioration < 2 dB). In 11.5% of patients, a transitory VEP decrease with subsequent recovery was observed without postoperative defects.

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative VEPs were performed with simultaneous recording of electroretinograms, with protection from lights of the operating room and with white light-emitting diodes. Intraoperative VEPs were shown to be reliable in predicting postoperative visual field changes. In this series of intraaxial brain procedures, reliable intraoperative VEP monitoring was achieved, allowing at minimum the detection of new quadrantanopia. The standardization of this technique appears to be a valuable effort in regard to the functional risks of homonymous hemianopia.
Timely follow‐up of positive cancer screening results: A systematic review and recommendations from the PROSPR Consortium
Authors: Doubeni Chyke A. , Gabler Nicole B. , Wheeler Cosette M. , McCarthy Anne Marie , Castle Philip E. , Halm Ethan A. , Schnall Mitchell D. , Skinner Celette S. , Tosteson Anna N. A. , Weaver Donald L. , Vachani Anil , Mehta Shivan J. , Rendle Katharine A. , Fedewa Stacey A. , Corley Douglas A. , Armstrong Katrina
Published: March 2018

Timely follow‐up for positive cancer screening results remains suboptimal, and the evidence base to inform decisions on optimizing the timeliness of diagnostic testing is unclear. This systematic review evaluated published studies regarding time to follow‐up after a positive screening for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers. The quality of available evidence was very low or low across cancers, with potential attenuated or reversed associations from confounding by indication in most studies. Overall, evidence suggested that the risk for poorer cancer outcomes rises with longer wait times that vary within and across cancer types, which supports performing diagnostic testing as soon as feasible after the positive result, but evidence for specific time targets is limited. Within these limitations, we provide our opinion on cancer‐specific recommendations for times to follow‐up and how existing guidelines relate to the current evidence. Thresholds set should consider patient worry, potential for loss to follow‐up with prolonged wait times, and available resources. Research is needed to better guide the timeliness of diagnostic follow‐up, including considerations for patient preferences and existing barriers, while addressing methodological weaknesses. Research is also needed to identify effective interventions for reducing wait times for diagnostic testing, particularly in underserved or low‐resource settings. CA Cancer J Clin 2018;68:199–216. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Optimal pain management for patients with cancer in the modern era
Authors: Scarborough Bethann M. , Smith Cardinale B.
Published: March 2018

Pain is a common symptom among patients with cancer. Adequate pain assessment and management are critical to improve the quality of life and health outcomes in this population. In this review, the authors provide a framework for safely and effectively managing cancer‐related pain by summarizing the evidence for the importance of controlling pain, the barriers to adequate pain management, strategies to assess and manage cancer‐related pain, how to manage pain in patients at risk of substance use disorder, and considerations when managing pain in a survivorship population. CA Cancer J Clin 2018;68:182–196. © 2018 American Cancer Society.
Tracking Antoni Gaymans's seventeenth-century horti sicci
Authors: Nelson E. Charles
Published: March 2018

Catalogues listing books for sale between the 1740s and the 1960s yield information about horti sicci prepared in Leiden by the pharmacist Antoni Gaymans before 1680. Owners of a three-volume hortus siccus that was returned to Leiden in 1984 included the earls of Oxford and Mortimer (the Harley family), and the notable botanist, the third Earl of Bute.
Reverberation-Ray Matrix Analysis and Interpretation of Bending Waves in Bi-Coupled Periodic Multi-Component Beams
Authors: Guo Yongqiang , Guo Liangteng , Guo Zhe
Published: March 2018

Most existing research on periodic beams concerns bending waves in mono-coupled and bi-coupled periodic mono-component beams with the unit cell containing only one beam segment, and very few works on bi-coupled periodic multi-component beams with the unit cell containing more than one beam segments study the bending waves in structures with only binary unit cells. This paper presents the method of reverberation-ray matrix (MRRM) as an alternative theoretical method for analyzing the dispersion characteristics of bending waves with the wavelength greater than the size of the cross-sections of all components in bi-coupled periodic multi-component beams. The formulation of MRRM is proposed in detail with its numerically well-conditioned property being emphasized, which is validated through comparison of the results obtained with the counterpart results by other methods for exemplified bi-coupled periodic beams. Numerical examples are also provided to illustrate the comprehensive dispersion curves represented as the relations between any two among three in frequency, wavenumber (wavelength) and phase-velocity for summarizing the general features of the dispersion characteristics of bending waves in bi-coupled periodic multi-component beams. The effects of the geometrical and material parameters of constituent beams and the unit-cell configuration on the band structures are also demonstrated by numerical examples. The most innovative finding indicated from the dispersion curves is that the frequencies corresponding to the Brillouin zone boundary may not be the demarcation between the pass-band and stop-band for bending waves in bi-coupled periodic multi-component beams.
A Thermodynamic Analysis of the Pressure Gain of Continuously Rotating Detonation Combustor for Gas Turbine
Authors: Zheng Hongtao , Qi Lei , Zhao Ningbo , Li Zhiming , Liu Xiao
Published: March 2018

Considering the potential applications of continuously rotating detonation (CRD) combustors in gas turbines, this paper performed a numerical investigation into the pressure gain performance of CRD combustors, using methane–air as a reactive mixture and under the operating conditions of a micro gas turbine. To analyze the formation process of CRD waves, the variation characteristics of several typical thermodynamic parameters involving thermal efficiency, pressure ratio, and available energy loss were discussed in terms of time and space scales. Numerical results showed that the pressure gain characteristics of the CRD combustors was associated with the corresponding change in Gibbs free energy. Compared to approximate constant pressure-based combustors, usually used in the gas turbines studied, CRD combustors with lower Gibbs free energy loss could offer a significant advantage in terms of pressure ratio. It was found that detonation waves played an important role in increasing pressure ratios but that oblique shock waves caused the loss of extra Gibbs free energy. Due to the changing oblique shock wave height, the effects of CRD combustor axial length on pressure ratios and Gibbs free energy loss were more significant than the effects on detonation wave propagating characteristics and combustion thermal efficiency. When the axial length was changed from 200 mm to 100 mm, the pressure ratio increased by approximately 15.8%.
[(PhCH2O)2P(CH3)2CHNCH(CH3)2]2PdCl2/CuI as Cocatalyst for Coupling-Cyclization of 2-Iodophenol with Terminal Alkynes in Water
Authors: Jiang Panli , Guo Mengping , Fu Leiqing , Wen Yongju , Shen Xiuli , Zhou Lanjiang
Published: March 2018

A new and efficient [(PhCH2O)2P(CH3)2CHNCH(CH3)2]2PdCl2/CuI-co-catalyzed coupling-cyclization reactions of 2-iodophenol with terminal alkynes is described. Different 2-substitued benzo[b]furan derivatives are obtained in good to excellent yields. This protocol employs a relatively low palladium(II) catalyst loading in water under air conditions.
The First Catalytic Direct C–H Arylation on C2 and C3 of Thiophene Ring Applied to Thieno-Pyridines, -Pyrimidines and -Pyrazines
Authors: Campos Joana , Queiroz Maria-João , Berteina-Raboin Sabine
Published: March 2018

A practical one-pot procedure for the preparation of diverse thieno[3,2-d]pyrimidines is reported here for the first time. This two-step process via C–H activation in position C-2 of thiophene led to the development of an improved methodology for the synthesis of numerous compounds. This new methodology is an efficient alternative to the conventional methods currently applied. The C–H activation of the thiophene C-3 position was also achieved and can be selective. The optimized conditions can also be applied to thienopyridines and thienopyrazines.
Theory of Mind and General Intelligence in Dictator and Ultimatum Games
Authors: Lang Hannes , DeAngelo Gregory , Bongard Michelle
Published: March 2018

Decreasing social sensitivity (i.e., the ability of a person to perceive, understand, and respect the feelings and viewpoints of others), has been shown to facilitate selfish behavior. This is not only true for exogenous changes in social sensitivity, but also for social sensitivity influenced by someone’s social cognition. In this analysis, we examined one measure of social cognition, namely a person’s Theory of Mind (ToM), to examine differences in decision-making in standard non-strategic and strategic environments (dictator and ultimatum games). We found that participants with higher ToM gave a greater share in the non-strategic environment. In the ultimatum game, however, ToM showed no correlation with the offers of the ultimators. Instead, we found that general intelligence scores—measured by the Wonderlic test—shared a negative, albeit weak, correlation with the amount offered in the ultimatum game. Thus, we find that lower social cognition is an important explanatory variable for selfish behavior in a non-strategic environment, while general intelligence shares some correlation in a strategic environment. Similar to the change in social sensitivity created by a specific game design, social sensitivity influenced by individual personality traits can influence behavior in non-strategic environments.
Stem Cells Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Gazdic Marina , Volarevic Vladislav , Harrell C. , Fellabaum Crissy , Jovicic Nemanja , Arsenijevic Nebojsa , Stojkovic Miodrag
Published: March 2018

Spinal cord injury (SCI), a serious public health issue, most likely occurs in previously healthy young adults. Current therapeutic strategies for SCI includes surgical decompression and pharmacotherapy, however, there is still no gold standard for the treatment of this devastating condition. Inefficiency and adverse effects of standard therapy indicate that novel therapeutic strategies are required. Because of their neuroregenerative and neuroprotective properties, stem cells are a promising tool for the treatment of SCI. Herein, we summarize and discuss the promising therapeutic potential of human embryonic stem cells (hESC), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) and ependymal stem/progenitor cells (epSPC) for SCI.
Different Natural Selection Pressures on the atpF Gene in Evergreen Sclerophyllous and Deciduous Oak Species: Evidence from Comparative Analysis of the Complete Chloroplast Genome of Quercus aquifolioides with Other Oak Species
Authors: Yin Kangquan , Zhang Yue , Li Yuejuan , Du Fang
Published: March 2018

Quercus is an economically important and phylogenetically complex genus in the family Fagaceae. Due to extensive hybridization and introgression, it is considered to be one of the most challenging plant taxa, both taxonomically and phylogenetically. Quercus aquifolioides is an evergreen sclerophyllous oak species that is endemic to, but widely distributed across, the Hengduanshan Biodiversity Hotspot in the Eastern Himalayas. Here, we compared the fully assembled chloroplast (cp) genome of Q. aquifolioides with those of three closely related species. The analysis revealed a cp genome ranging in size from 160,415 to 161,304 bp and with a typical quadripartite structure, composed of two inverted repeats (IRs) separated by a small single copy (SSC) and a large single copy (LSC) region. The genome organization, gene number, gene order, and GC content of these four Quercus cp genomes are similar to those of many angiosperm cp genomes. We also analyzed the Q. aquifolioides repeats and microsatellites. Investigating the effects of selection events on shared protein-coding genes using the Ka/Ks ratio showed that significant positive selection had acted on the atpF gene of Q. aquifolioides compared to two deciduous oak species, and that there had been significant purifying selection on the atpF gene in the chloroplast of evergreen sclerophyllous oak trees. In addition, site-specific selection analysis identified positively selected sites in 12 genes. Phylogenetic analysis based on shared protein-coding genes from 14 species defined Q. aquifolioides as belonging to sect. Heterobalanus and being closely related to Q. rubra and Q. aliena. Our findings provide valuable genetic information for use in accurately identifying species, resolving taxonomy, and reconstructing the phylogeny of the genus Quercus.
Antibiotic Use in Agriculture and Its Consequential Resistance in Environmental Sources: Potential Public Health Implications
Authors: Manyi-Loh Christy , Mamphweli Sampson , Meyer Edson , Okoh Anthony
Published: March 2018

Due to the increased demand of animal protein in developing countries, intensive farming is instigated, which results in antibiotic residues in animal-derived products, and eventually, antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic resistance is of great public health concern because the antibiotic-resistant bacteria associated with the animals may be pathogenic to humans, easily transmitted to humans via food chains, and widely disseminated in the environment via animal wastes. These may cause complicated, untreatable, and prolonged infections in humans, leading to higher healthcare cost and sometimes death. In the said countries, antibiotic resistance is so complex and difficult, due to irrational use of antibiotics both in the clinical and agriculture settings, low socioeconomic status, poor sanitation and hygienic status, as well as that zoonotic bacterial pathogens are not regularly cultured, and their resistance to commonly used antibiotics are scarcely investigated (poor surveillance systems). The challenges that follow are of local, national, regional, and international dimensions, as there are no geographic boundaries to impede the spread of antibiotic resistance. In addition, the information assembled in this study through a thorough review of published findings, emphasized the presence of antibiotics in animal-derived products and the phenomenon of multidrug resistance in environmental samples. This therefore calls for strengthening of regulations that direct antibiotic manufacture, distribution, dispensing, and prescription, hence fostering antibiotic stewardship. Joint collaboration across the world with international bodies is needed to assist the developing countries to implement good surveillance of antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance.
Synthesis of Pt–Pd Bimetallic Porous Nanostructures as Electrocatalysts for the Methanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Yang Yong , Cao Yanqin , Yang Lili , Huang Zhengren , Long Nguyen
Published: March 2018

Pt-based bimetallic nanostructures have attracted a great deal of attention due to their unique nanostructures and excellent catalytic properties. In this study, we prepared porous Pt–Pd nanoparticles using an efficient, one-pot co-reduction process without using any templates or toxic reactants. In this process, Pt–Pd nanoparticles with different nanostructures were obtained by adjusting the temperature and ratio of the two precursors; and their catalytic properties for the oxidation of methanol were studied. The porous Pt–Pd nanostructures showed better electrocatalytic activity for the oxidation of methanol with a higher current density (0.67 mA/cm2), compared with the commercial Pt/C catalyst (0.31 mA/cm2). This method provides one easy pathway to economically prepare different alloy nanostructures for various applications.
A Comparison of the Satiety Effects of a Fruit Smoothie, Its Fresh Fruit Equivalent and Other Drinks
Authors: Rogers Peter , Shahrokni Roya
Published: March 2018

Energy-containing liquids are claimed to have relatively low satiating power, although energy in liquids is not without effect on appetite. Using the preload test-meal method, effects on fullness and energy intake compensation were compared across four drinks (water, blackcurrant squash, milk and fruit smoothie) and the fresh fruit equivalent of the smoothie. Preload volumes were similar, and the energy value of each preload was 569 kJ, except for water (0 kJ). Healthy, adult participants rated the preloads for liking, enjoyment, satisfaction, familiarity and how ‘food-like’ they seemed. The preload to test-meal interval was 2 min (n = 23) or 2 h (n = 24). The effects of the preloads on fullness varied with food-likeness and the rate at which they were consumed. In contrast, energy intake compensation versus water did not differ between the energy-containing preloads, although it decreased over time (from 82% at 2 min to 12% at 2 h). In conclusion, although fullness increased with food-likeness, subsequent energy intake compensation did not differ for energy/nutrients consumed in drinks compared with a food. The results also support the proposal that food intake is influenced predominantly by the immediate, but rapidly waning, post-ingestive effects of the previous ‘meal’ (rather than by changes in energy balance).
Influence of Intestinal Microbiota Transplantation and NleH Expression on Citrobacter rodentium Colonization of Mice
Authors: Wang Gaochan , Feuerbacher Leigh Ann , Hardwidge Philip R.
Published: March 2018

The intestinal microbiota plays an important role in regulating host resistance to enteric pathogens. The relative abundance of the microbiota is dependent upon both genetic and environmental factors. The attaching and effacing pathogens enteropathogenic Escherichia coli, enterohemorrhagic E. coli, and Citrobacter rodentium cause diarrheal disease and translocate type III secretion system effector proteins into host cells to inhibit pro-inflammatory host responses. Here we determined the influence of both the intestinal microbiota and the expression of the C. rodentium NleH effector on C. rodentium colonization in different mouse models. We performed fecal transplantation experiments between C57BL/6J and C57BL/10ScNJ mice and found that such microbiota transfers altered both the host resistance to C. rodentium infection as well as the benefit or detriment of expressing NleH to C. rodentium intestinal colonization.
Design and Implementation of a Dual-Mass MEMS Gyroscope with High Shock Resistance
Authors: Gao Yang , Huang Libin , Ding Xukai , Li Hongsheng
Published: March 2018

This paper presents the design and implementation of a dual-mass MEMS gyroscope with high shock resistance by improving the in-phase frequency of the gyroscope and by using a two-stage elastic stopper mechanism and proposes a Simulink shock model of the gyroscope equipped with the two-stage stopper mechanism, which is a very efficient method to evaluate the shock resistance of the gyroscope. The structural design takes into account both the mechanical sensitivity and the shock resistance. The design of the primary structure and the analysis of the stopper mechanism are first introduced. Based on the expression of the restoring force of the stopper beam, the analytical shock response model of the gyroscope is obtained. By this model, the shock response of the gyroscope is theoretically analyzed, and the appropriate structural parameters are obtained. Then, the correctness of the model is verified by finite element (FE) analysis, where the contact collision analysis is introduced in detail. The simulation results show that the application of the two-stage elastic stopper mechanism can effectively improve the shock resistance by more than 1900 g and 1500 g in the x- and y-directions, respectively. Finally, experimental verifications are carried out by using a machete hammer on the micro-gyroscope prototype fabricated by the deep dry silicon on glass (DDSOG) technology. The results show that the shock resistance of the prototype along the x-, y- and z-axes all exceed 10,000 g. Moreover, the output of the gyroscope can return to normal in about 2 s.
Sensor-Based Optimized Control of the Full Load Instability in Large Hydraulic Turbines
Authors: Presas Alexandre , Valentin David , Egusquiza Mònica , Valero Carme , Egusquiza Eduard
Published: March 2018

Hydropower plants are of paramount importance for the integration of intermittent renewable energy sources in the power grid. In order to match the energy generated and consumed, Large hydraulic turbines have to work under off-design conditions, which may lead to dangerous unstable operating points involving the hydraulic, mechanical and electrical system. Under these conditions, the stability of the grid and the safety of the power plant itself can be compromised. For many Francis Turbines one of these critical points, that usually limits the maximum output power, is the full load instability. Therefore, these machines usually work far away from this unstable point, reducing the effective operating range of the unit. In order to extend the operating range of the machine, working closer to this point with a reasonable safety margin, it is of paramount importance to monitor and to control relevant parameters of the unit, which have to be obtained with an accurate sensor acquisition strategy. Within the framework of a large EU project, field tests in a large Francis Turbine located in Canada (rated power of 444 MW) have been performed. Many different sensors were used to monitor several working parameters of the unit for all its operating range. Particularly for these tests, more than 80 signals, including ten type of different sensors and several operating signals that define the operating point of the unit, were simultaneously acquired. The present study, focuses on the optimization of the acquisition strategy, which includes type, number, location, acquisition frequency of the sensors and corresponding signal analysis to detect the full load instability and to prevent the unit from reaching this point. A systematic approach to determine this strategy has been followed. It has been found that some indicators obtained with different types of sensors are linearly correlated with the oscillating power. The optimized strategy has been determined based on the correlation characteristics (linearity, sensitivity and reactivity), the simplicity of the installation and the acquisition frequency necessary. Finally, an economic and easy implementable protection system based on the resulting optimized acquisition strategy is proposed. This system, which can be used in a generic Francis turbine with a similar full load instability, permits one to extend the operating range of the unit by working close to the instability with a reasonable safety margin.
A Hybrid Bionic Image Sensor Achieving FOV Extension and Foveated Imaging
Authors: Hao Qun , Wang Zihan , Cao Jie , Zhang Fanghua
Published: March 2018

Based on bionic compound eye and human foveated imaging mechanisms, a hybrid bionic image sensor (HBIS) is proposed in this paper to extend the field of view (FOV) with high resolution. First, the hybrid bionic imaging model was developed and the structure parameters of the HBIS were deduced. Second, the properties of the HBIS were simulated, including FOV extension, super-resolution imaging, foveal ratio and so on. Third, a prototype of the HBIS was developed to validate the theory. Imaging experiments were carried out, and the results are in accordance with the simulations, proving the potential of the HBIS for large FOV and high-resolution imaging with low cost.
Injuries and Fatalities in Danish Commercial Fishing Fleet in 1998–2016
Authors: Rasmussen Hanna , Ahsan Dewan
Published: March 2018

Background: Fishing is a risky occupation as injuries and fatalities in fishing vessels are quite common. This paper investigates the pattern of injuries aboard fishing vessels in Denmark to get a better understanding of areas where further action is needed to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities in Danish fishing vessels. Materials and methods: Data for this study, extracted from the Danish Fishermen’s Occupational Health Service’s database (in the period 1998–2012) and the Danish Maritime Authority’s accident report from 2013 to 2016, include 1840 injuries in Danish fisheries. Result: The results showed decreased injuries in the study period from 45 injuries and deaths per 1000 fishermen reported to the authorities to 12 injuries and deaths per 1000 fishermen in 2016: 2.1% (n = 39) of all reported injuries in the study period resulted in the death of a fisherman and the remaining injuries resulted in sick leave of more than one day; 52.5% (n = 600) of reported injuries involved fishermen who have less than one year’s experience of employment; 29% (n = 407) of injuries took place between 12:00 and 16:00, and the second largest number of injuries, 23.3% (n = 324), took place between 8:00 and 12:00. The incident rate of slip/fall injuries has decreased from 10.06 per 1000 fishermen in 1998 to 3.84 in 2016. The incidence rate of injuries caused by crushing also decreased, from 9.32 accidents per 1000 fishermen in 1998 to 2.56 in 2016. Most of the injuries, 74.5% (n = 1307), happened on the deck of the vessel. Sprain/strain was among the most common injuries (34.2%; n = 538) followed by fracture (24.8%; n = 391). Conclusion: This study indicated that the number of injuries had been gradually decreasing in Danish commercial fishing vessels in the period from 1998 to 2016. The rate of injuries had been declining due to several initiatives such as the establishment of The Danish Fishermen’s Occupational Health Services, training, safety campaigns, technological improvement and structural changes in fisheries management. However, there are still places for improvement.
Natural Stabilized Earth Panels versus Conventional Façade Systems. Economic and Environmental Impact Assessment
Authors: Galán-Marín Carmen , Martínez-Rocamora Alejandro , Solís-Guzmán Jaime , Rivera-Gómez Carlos
Published: March 2018

More effective construction technologies are needed nowadays in order to reduce construction energy consumption during the life-cycle of buildings. Besides which, it is necessary to consider the economic feasibility and associated costs within the framework of these alternative technologies so as to favouring their practical implementation in the construction sector. In this sense, this paper presents an economic and environmental comparison of a new non-bearing façade construction solution based on the extruded unfired stabilized clay panels as opposed to three traditional solutions with similar physical, thermal, and aesthetic characteristics in terms of the exterior cladding. The proposed panels are a sandwich type configuration with an intermediate insulating material and two exterior pieces manufactured by extrusion with raw earth stabilized with alginate and animal wool fibers. In this paper, details of the constructive technology of the system are provided. From the results obtained, it is possible to conclude that the solution is a valid alternative from the environmental point of view, considerably reducing the Global Warming Potential and the Cumulative Energy Demand. And although the environmental improvement of the system can be considered the primary objective of this investigation, on the other hand, once executed, it will also be a competitive constructive technology from the perspective of the system’s final costs.
Stochastic Assessments of Urban Employees’ Pension Plan of China
Authors: Zhao Yueqiang , Bai Manying , Feng Peng , Zhu Mengyuan
Published: March 2018

In the uncertain environment of population and economy; the pension plan for urban employees in China is under threat from various types of financial risk. This paper mainly builds a comprehensive risk assessment system to evaluate the solvency sustainability of the urban employees’ pension plan of China. Specifically, we forecast annual accumulative net asset; actuarial balance; and potential support ratio for the next seventy years. To account for the impact of demographic uncertainty on long-term finances, stochastic simulations are used to estimate the probability distribution of relative risk indicators. Moreover, we integrate the Lee–Carter model into the population projection. According to the median projection, the public pension fund will have a gap in about 35 years; and the cash flow will be negative about 25 years later. Furthermore, under the existing policy, the burden of insured employees will increase rapidly. Delayed retirement could relieve the coming solvency risk, but it does not fundamentally resolve the solvency problem in the long run.
Aligning Strategy with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Process Scoping Diagram for Entrepreneurial Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)
Authors: Fleacă Elena , Fleacă Bogdan , Maiduc Sanda
Published: March 2018

Seeing that the prosperity of people and society is possible with the aid of sustained and inclusive economic growth of all countries and regions, the sustainable development of our world has gained the particular attention of a wide range of decisional factors; civil society, the business sector, and the scientific community. Education has a decisive impact on changes in the way that societies are coping with national, regional, and global challenges and opportunities brought by sustainable development. The paper addressed the lack of capacity of higher education institutions (HEIs) to integrate the principles and practices of sustainable development into all aspects of education and learning, which hampers the capability to act as an entrepreneurial university. Embarking on the path of sustainable development goals (SDGs) requires HEI to design, launch, implement, and customize specific processes architecture to govern the advance of the sustainability approach. The authors applied the process scoping diagram to capture and conceptualize the educational model needed to guide the HEI through the process of change in its daily operations. The SIPOC method (Supplier, Input, Process, Output, Customer) was applied and with the aid of Visio software tool, the processes relationships were articulated and embedded in the educational model of HEI. Finally, the authors shared their views on the scalability of the model, which may be customized and harmonized in accordance with different HEI’s circumstances and priorities.