bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Biofuels on Food Prices; The Experiences of Brazil and United States
Authors: Ncube Free Pangani , Ndlovu Khuphukani Tshamu , Tsegaye Asrat ,   Institute of Development Studies (IDS-NUST)
Published: January 2018

Using crops for fuel generates concerns over competition with food uses. In 2008 a global food crisis hit the world during a record-high commodity and energy prices that prompted hunger and political unrest in developing countries. This took place at the same time when biofuel production, reached its pinnacle in developed countries. This paper examines the effect that biofuel prices and or production has had on food prices in Brazil and United States (U.S.) by employing the panel cointegration and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS) method of analysis. In regressing food prices as a function of demand and supply factors, such as oil prices, biofuel prices, interest rates and biofuel production, the study found that the increase in biofuels production over the past eighteen years has had a significant impact on food prices. Over the period January 1995- December 2013, the study estimates that a one hundred percent increase in biofuels production across time and between countries results in the increase of food prices by 21,9%. The study therefore rejects the null hypothesis that states, biofuel production does not have a statistically significant negative impact on food prices in U.S. and Brazil, and accepts the alternative that biofuel production does have a statistically significant negative impact on food prices in U.S. and Brazil. Other predictors of food prices that the study revealed as significant were oil and interest rates. Policy recommendations for other countries like South Africa are therefore, made based on the results obtained.
Analiza ekspertyzy osmologicznej - metodologia i wartość dowodowa w postępowaniu karnym
Authors: Jędrzejczyk Michał
Published: January 2018

Artykuł przedstawia analizę istoty oraz procesu ekspertyzy osmologicznej opartej na Metodyce Badań Osmologicznych Centralnego Laboratorium Kryminalistycznego Policji. W pracy przedstawione zostały aktualne metody pobierania śladów, materiałów porównawczych oraz sposoby i stosowania celem identyfikacji potencjalnego sprawcy czynu zabronionego. Wskazane zostało również, że ze względu na swój niepewny i podatny na uchybienia proceduralne charakter ekspertyzy osmologicznej, dowód z niej wywiedziony nie powinien być jedynym w postępowaniu. Ponadto, w odniesieniu do dowodu z ekspertyzy osmologicznej wprowadzone i wyjaśnione zostały definicja i charakterystyka dowodu naukowego.
Ustawa Prawo o ustroju sądów powszechnych z 2001 r. – analiza wybranych elementów nowelizacji z 12.7.2017 r.
Authors: Parchała Ernestyna
Published: January 2018

Artykuł analizuje wybrane zmiany wprowadzone do ustawy - Prawo o ustroju sądów powszechnych (Dz. U. Nr 98, poz. 1070, ze zm.) nowelizacją z 12.7.2017 r. W tekście opisano najważniejsze założenia wspomnianej nowelizacji oraz porównano je z poprzednim stanem prawnym. Analizie zostały poddane trzy kategorie zmian: struktura sądownictwa powszechnego, kwestia nadzoru nad sądami i samymi sędziami, a także wąsko pojęte funkcjonowanie sądów. W każdej z tych kategorii ustawodawca proponuje istotne zmiany, między innymi losowe przydzielanie spraw sędziom, modyfikacje trybu powoływania i odwoływania prezesów oraz wiceprezesówsądów czy rozszerzenie obowiązku składania rocznej informacji o działalności sądu. Autorka opisuje znowelizowane przepisy prawne oraz próbuje przewidzieć ich możliwe skutki dla funkcjonowania polskiego systemu sądownictwa powszechnego.
Smart Organic-Inorganic Nanogels for Activatable Theranostics
Authors: Li Fangyuan , Liang Zeyu , Ling Daishun
Published: January 2018

Intelligent polymeric nanogels, with the rationally designed stimuli-responsive drug delivery and controlled drug release, have attracted considerable attention as an ideal nanoplatform for activatable therapy. On the other hand, functional inorganic nanomaterials are widely used as medical imaging agents due to their unique magnetic or optical properties. The construction of stimuli-responsive polymeric nanogels incorporating with functional inorganic nanomaterials inherits the excellent properties of both polymers and inorganic nanomaterials, consequently, the resulted organic-inorganic hybrid nanogels naturally exhibit stimuli-responsive multi-functionalities for both imaging and therapy. In this review, we summarize the recent advances of stimuli-responsive organic-inorganic hybrid nanogels. Firstly, we discuss the physical and chemical methods thus far developed for the integration of polymeric nanogels and inorganic nanomaterials, and then we show the typical examples of activatable theranostic applications using organic-inorganic hybrid nanogels. In the end, the existing challenges and future directions are briefly discussed.
A Modern Historical Perspective of Schroth Scoliosis Rehabilitation and Corrective Bracing Techniques for Idiopathic Scoliosis
Authors: Moramarco Kathryn , Borysov Maksym
Published: January 2018

The treatment of scoliosis has a long history dating back to Hippocrates and his luxation table. In recent history, conservative rehabilitation treatment methods have come and gone. Some have had more longevity than others and currently there are only a handful of these “schools” for rehabilitation in existence.

What is important to note in this twenty-first century world is that any approach to bracing or scoliosis rehabilitation must strive for a correction effect and be as user-friendly as possible. Patients look to achieve some measure of success, whether it be halted Cobb angle, improved breathing function, decreased rotation, or postural improvementviatrunk symmetry.

Katharina Schroth created her method in 1921 as a result of self-analysis of her own imperfect scoliotic torso and the effect on it as she altered her breathing patterns. It was from these observations and self-experimentation that she devised her rotational angular breathing method. Subsequently, the Schroth method evolved under the leadership of her daughter, Christa Lehnert-Schroth P.T., and grandson, Dr. Hans-Rudolf Weiss. Collaboration with Dr. Jacques Chêneau led to a new Schroth method compatible scoliosis bracing approach. The most recent advancement of Chêneau bracing is the Gensingen Brace® (GBW). Gensingen braces have an asymmetric design and rely on Schroth principles of correction in a smaller, lighter, more wearer-friendly brace. Each brace is designed to be a complementary supportive orthosis. It may be used independently, or in conjunction with Schroth exercise protocols.
High Value-Added Biomolecules from Beach Waste of Marine Origin-Screening for Potential Candidates among Seagrass of the Cymodoceaceae Family
Authors: Grignon-Dubois Micheline , Rezzonico Bernadette
Published: January 2018

Background:

Detrital leaves from seagrass of the Cymodoceaceae family were assayed for biologically active molecules that have commercial as well as societal benefits.

Objective:

We focused on L-chiro-inositol, a very rare natural occurring cyclitol, and chicoric acid, a polyphenolic compound, in which both applications were found in the nutraceutical segment.

Method:

Six species of seagrass belonging to the genera Syringodium, Cymodocea and Halodule were collected from their native habitat. The L-chiro-inositol content of the crude aqueous extracts prepared from different batches of Cymodocea nodosa flotsam was measured by quantitative 1H-NMR spectroscopy. High concentrations were found with values ranging from 22.2 to 35.0 mg.g-1 plant dw. The presence of L-chiro-inositol in the tropical species C. rotundata, C. serrulata, Syringodium isoetifolium, and Halodule pinifolia was also characterized by qualitative NMR. The chicoric acid content of crude aqueous methanolic extracts prepared from C. rotundata, C. serrulata, S. isoetifolium, and Halodule pinifolia was determined by quantitative HPLC-DAD. The values found ranged from 0.39 to 6.15 mg.g-1 dry weight. Chicoric acid was unambiguously identified as the major phenolic in S. isoetifolium, and Halodule pinifolia, while it was found in mixture with flavonol derivatives in C. rotundata and C. serrulata. Flavonol derivatives are also of interest for their bioactivity.

Result:

Considering the demonstrated therapeutic applications of L-chiro-inositol and chicoric acid, their high value on the nutraceutical market, and their rare occurrence in the plant kingdom, their presence in Syringodium, Cymodocea and Halodule detrital leaves makes this abundant biomass of interest for dietary and pharmaceutical applications.

Conclusion:

These results show that there is a real potential for harvesting beachcast Cymodoceacea.
Driving to Better Health: Screening for Hypertension and Associated Factors Among Commercial Taxi Drivers in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality, South Africa
Authors: Adedokun Aanuoluwa Odunayo , Ter Goon Daniel , Owolabi Eyitayo Omolara , Adeniyi Oladele Vincent , Ajayi Anthony Idowu
Published: January 2018

Background:

Hypertension is a critical public health issue in South Africa. Commercial taxi drivers constitute a vulnerable group who are predisposed to hypertension due to the nature of their work. Yet, unlike other population sub-groups, their health status and lifestyle behaviour have rarely been investigated.

Objective:

To screen for hypertension and the associated risks factors among commercial taxi drivers in Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM), South Africa.

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study of a convenience sample of 403 commercial taxi drivers in BCMM. The modified WHO STEPwise questionnaire was used for obtaining demographic and behavioural information from the participants. Blood pressure (BP), blood glucose and anthropometric measurements followed standard procedure. Pre-hypertension was defined as systolic BP of 120-139 mmHg and diastolic BP of 80-89 mmHg and hypertension was defined as a systolic BP ≥140mmHg and/or diastolic BP of ≥90mmHg, self-reported history of hypertension or current medication use. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to determine the prevalence and associated factors of hypertension. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The study participants were 98.8% male, age ranged from 20 to 74 years, with a mean age of 43.3 years (SD±12.5).The prevalence of pre-hypertension was 33.7% and hypertension was 57.0%. After adjusting for confounders, age>35 years (p=0.004), obesity and alcohol use (p<0.001), period of driving>5years (p=0.028) and diabetes (P=0.003) were significant predictors of hypertension.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of hypertension among commercial taxi drivers in BCMM is high and associated with ageing and other cardiovascular risk factors. There is a need for interventions aimed at promoting healthy lifestyle and reduction of hypertension among this group, particularly the older ones.
Studies on macromorphological taxonomic variations in Abutilon species of Indian Thar Desert
Authors: Bano Ilham , G.S. Deora
Published: January 2018

Abutilon is an important medicinal plant. Its various plant parts such as leaves, flowers, fruits and seeds were used to treat various diseases and ailments from the ancient time. Present work deals with the investigation of three species of Abutilonviz. Abutilon indicum, Abutilon pannosumand Abutilon ramosum with a view to study macro morphological variations and to identify a set of diagnostic characters for individual Abutilon species. Distinct variations exist in stem surface and colour, leaf shape and size, flower diameter, fruit colour, shape and size, number of mericarps per fruit and seed structure. All these macromorphological variations were helpful in identification and delineation of the plant species.
Comparison Of L-Dopa Content In Three Species Of Genus Mucuna By Different Extraction Techniques
Authors: Vora Ragni , Joshi Ambika N. , Joshi Nitesh Chandulal
Published: January 2018

In the present study, attempts are made to develop suitable method(s) for extraction of L-DOPA from the powdered seeds of 3 species of Mucuna using different solvents and conditions. The seed powder of both plants was subjected to 6 different extraction methods, with different solvent ratios. All the extracts were analyzed using RP-HPLC and was validated according to The International Conference on Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Registration of Pharmaceuticals for Human Use guidelines. The L-DOPA extraction was best with Methanol Water mixture in a cold maceration technique and overall gives good extraction efficiency in all the three plants giving concentrations of 5.03%, 13.36 % and 16.78% of L-DOPA in Mucuna gigantea, Mucuna pruriens and Mucuna monosperma, respectively. The present investigation was done to study the extraction efficiency of various extraction methods of L-DOPA content in seed extracts of Mucuna and compare it.
Plagiochila magna Inoue. (Plagiochilaceae) from Mathikettan Shola National Park, Idukki- New record to Peninsular India
Authors: V.K. Rajilesh , P.V. Madhusoodanan , R. Prakashkumar
Published: January 2018

The paper reports the occurrence of Plagiochila magna Inoue., leafy liverworts from the Mathikettan Shola National Park, Idukki, Kerala. The specimens have not been reported so far from Peninsular India.
Efficacy of a novel phytopesticide against Thrips tabaci, an insect pest on onion
Authors: G.R. Borhade , Diluraj Sangeetha , G.L. Bhor
Published: January 2018

Onion is an important crop cultivated as vegetable. Onion thrips is a key insect pest in most of the onion production regions of the world. A new biopesticide prepared from the crude leaf extracts of ten plants in cow urine was evaluated for their efficacy against Thrips tabaci. The biopesticide was tested in agricultural field on onion plants in varying concentrations and was found to be highly efficient in eradicating the thrips in an eco-friendly manner.
Antibacterial effect of medicinal rue extracts on the infectious mouth in Al – Najaf community. An In-vivo study
Authors: Ibrahim Sanaa Abdulrazzaq
Published: January 2018

Aim: Clinical evaluation of antibacterial and antimicrobial properties for herbal extracts plants as (rue) to have been investigated in order to suggest them as potential mouth rinse to overcome the microbial effect in the mouth of patients.     Materials and Methods: Assessing the opposite effect of the extract of this plant (rue) on gingivitis. Using precise dilution in distilled water only without the addition of any other material of this extract a certain concentration of 20%. I've been watching influence through the state of the gum tissue surrounding the teeth clinical examination before and after use of this extract for a period of 10 days for a group of patients totaling 32 patients (25 females and 7 males), age (10-80 years). A swabs were taken of the bacteria from the mouth of the patients were cultured before treatment to observe bacterial growth and swab after the treatment to note the death of bacteria.Results: The clinical use of direct observation of signs and symptoms after the examination. Rue have a good function on inflammation of the gums and tissues surrounding the teeth after using the vegetable extract of rue material through actual viewing and examination of periodontal pockets. Also after taking swabs and cultured them.
Adopted to Deal with Bastee Settlements of Dhaka City in Bangladesh
Authors: Abdul Mohit Mohammad
Published: January 2018

Dhaka is the capital city of Bangladesh and it has a population of 12 million. During the last three decades, while the city population grew over 7%, bastee (slum and squatter) population of the city grew from 1.0 million in 1990 to 3.4 million in 2005. Several policy approaches were adopted to deal with bastee settlements of Dhaka since 1975. These policy approaches were not very effective, because the scale of the problem is very large, which provides future challenges to deal with the bastee situation.
Application of Rasch Model in Constructing Walkability Indices for Urban Neighborhood Area
Authors: Sapawi Roslina , Said Ismail
Published: January 2018

Physical attributes for walkable urban neighbourhoods required a summary of indices. The development of indices is based on the hierarchy of walking need theory which applies dimensions of accessibility, safety, comfort and pleasurability. The aim of this research is to construct indices of physical attributes by detecting differential item functioning (DIF) based on respondents' demographic factors and their perceived environment. The findings using the Rasch model have dropped 16 items and maintained 20 items that are reliable to gauge the 4 dimensions. This research could be used to obtain indices in a just manner and become an indicator for a walkable urban neighbourhood model.
Evaluation and Concept of Building Performance Towards Sustainability in Malaysian Higher Institutions
Authors: Khalil Natasha , Husin Husrul Nizam , Nawawi Abdul Hadi
Published: January 2018

The growing populations of students to higher institution is increasing year by year, therefore, it is important to ensure that the building is well functioned throughout its lifecycle. Inevitably, the educational process may be interrupted if the building experience a poor performance conditions, thus affect the students' academic achievement. Many studies have proved that there is the significance in providing holistic performance in educational buildings that able to improve the students' learning environment. This study is aimed to provide a new rating tool for building performance that is hoped to be used for Malaysia's higher educational buildings towards students' learning improvement.
Content-Sensitive Characterization of Peer Interactions of Highly Engaged Users in an Online Community for Smoking Cessation: Mixed-Methods Approach for Modeling User Engagement in Health Promotion Interventions (Preprint)
Authors: Myneni Sahiti , Sridharan Vishnupriya , Cobb Nathan , Cohen Trevor
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

Online communities provide affordable venues for behavior change. However, active user engagement holds the key to the success of these platforms. In order to enhance user engagement and in turn, health outcomes, it is essential to offer targeted interventional and informational support.

OBJECTIVE

In this paper, we describe a content plus frequency framework to enable the characterization of highly engaged users in online communities and study theoretical techniques employed by these users through analysis of exchanged communication.

METHODS

We applied the proposed methodology for analysis of peer interactions within QuitNet, an online community for smoking cessation. Firstly, we identified 144 highly engaged users based on communication frequency within QuitNet over a period of 16 years. Secondly, we used the taxonomy of behavior change techniques, text analysis methods from distributional semantics, machine learning, and sentiment analysis to assign theory-driven labels to content. Finally, we extracted content-specific insights from peer interactions (n=159,483 messages) among highly engaged QuitNet users.

RESULTS

Studying user engagement using our proposed framework led to the definition of 3 user categories—conversation initiators, conversation attractors, and frequent posters. Specific behavior change techniques employed by top tier users (threshold set at top 3) within these 3 user groups were found to be goal setting, social support, rewards and threat, and comparison of outcomes. Engagement-specific trends within sentiment manifestations were also identified.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of content-inclusive analytics has offered deep insight into specific behavior change techniques employed by highly engaged users within QuitNet. Implications for personalization and active user engagement are discussed.
Judges in Vice-Regal Roles
Authors: Ananian-Welsh Rebecca , Williams George
Published: January 2018

The Australian federation is built upon an enduring respect for the independence of the judicial arm of government. This is reflected in the principle that the judiciary should be kept separate from the legislature and executive. A practice seemingly at odds with these values is the appointment of senior judges to vice-regal offices. Despite this, the practice has attracted scant academic attention, and has never been challenged in the courts. In this article we examine the conferral of vice-regal roles on serving federal, state and territory judges. We ask, first, whether such appointments ought to continue to be made and, secondly, whether they are constitutionally permissible.

The judge, by the way, was the King; and, as he was wearing his crown over the wig … he did not look at all comfortable, and it was certainly not becoming.

– Lewis Carroll, ‘Alice's Adventures in Wonderland’.
Disqualification of Judges and Pre-Judicial Advice
Authors: Appleby Gabrielle , McDonald Stephen
Published: January 2018

This article explores the circumstances in which a judicial officer may be required to recuse himself or herself on the basis of an opinion provided in the course of practice as a legal practitioner, prior to appointment to judicial officer, particularly where that opinion was on a matter of law only (including the constitutional validity of legislation). We suggest that questions concerning disqualification of judicial officers in such circumstances might be better approached by considering broader concepts of fairness, in addition to asking whether the provision of the pre-judicial opinion gives rise to considerations of apprehended bias. We also explore possible developments of the law to avoid the undesirable situation where the disqualification of a particular judicial officer may depend upon whether one party to the litigation chooses to disclose the existence or the content of advice that it has received.
Meeting Australia's Labour Needs: The Case for a New Low-Skill Work Visa
Authors: Howe Joanna , Reilly Alexander
Published: January 2018

This article examines whether Australia's regulatory settings for temporary migrant labour are working effectively and argues that a backdoor currently exists which permits the entry of low skilled migrant workers on visas which are not for a work purpose, namely the international student visa and the working holiday maker visa. We propose that an explicit visa pathway be created for low and semi-skilled workers so that the working conditions of these visa holders are more appropriately monitored and to enable Australia's temporary labour migration program to better meet skill shortages in the economy.
JEJAK BUDDHISME DALAM NOVEL KARYA KWEE TEK HOAY “BOENGA ROOS DARI TJIKEMBANG”: PERSPEKTIF FENOMENOLOGI
Authors: Yulianti Yulianti
Published: January 2018

In the first half of the 20th century, many Buddhist background texts were published, primarily by private publishers. One of the scriptwriters was a Chinese Peranakan named Kwee Tek Hoay (KTH). As a Chinese philosopher and philosopher, KTH has written many short stories, novels, and translations in the field of kebatinan. The article attempts to investigate Buddhism, especially Buddhist phenomena with a phenomenological paradigm in one of the KTH works entitled Boenga Roes from Tjikembang.
“Gobernar es estar cerca” Las estrategias de proximidad en el uso de las redes sociales de Mauricio Macri y María Eugenia Vidal.
Authors: Annunziata Rocío , Ariza Andrea Fernanda , March Valeria Romina
Published: January 2018

Este artículo se propone explorar las estrategias de proximidad en el uso de las redes sociales de Mauricio Macri (presidente argentino) y María Eugenia Vidal (gobernadora de la provincia de Buenos Aires). La investigación se basa en la elaboración de un archivo de las publicaciones de ambos dirigentes en sus cuentas oficiales de Facebook, Twitter e Instagram y en un posterior análisis de contenido, el cual clasificamos en cuatro grandes categorías: ciudadano, íntimo, institucional y político, bajo la hipótesis de que ambos dirigentes privilegian el que llamamos contenido “de proximidad” (íntimo y ciudadano). Luego, mostramos las distintas formas en las que el “ciudadano común” aparece en el discurso: narrando su historia, siendo visitado, recibiendo un llamado telefónico, siendo invitado a participar por medio de las propias redes y siendo invitado a ver desde la perspectiva intimista de los dirigentes. Finalmente, concluimos destacando la especificidad de las estrategias de proximidad de Macri y Vidal y señalando los desafíos pendientes para futuras investigaciones.
Observed decompression sickness and venous bubbles following 18-msw dive profiles using RN Table 11
Authors:   SLB Consulting, c/o The Barn, Winton, Kirkby Stephen, Cumbria, CA17 4HL, United Kingdom, Blogg S. Lesley , Møllerløkken Andreas ,   Barophysiology Group, Department of Circulation and Medical Imaging, NTNU, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway, Gennser Mikael ,   Section for Environmental Physiology, School of Technology and Health, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
Published: January 2018

The venous bubble load in the body after diving may be used to infer risk of decompression sickness (DCS). Retrospective analysis of post-dive bubbling and DCS was made on seven studies. Each of these investigated interventions, using an 18 meters of sea water (msw) air dive profile from Royal Navy Table 11 (Mod Air Table), equivalent to the Norwegian Air tables. A recent neurological DCS case suggested this table was not safe as thought. Two-hundred and twenty (220) man-dives were completed on this profile. Bubble measurements were made following 219 man-dives, using Doppler or 2D ultrasound measurements made on the Kisman-Masurel and Eftedal-Brubakk scales, respectively. The overall median grade was KM/EB 0.5 and the overall median maximum grade was KM/EB 2. Two cases of transient shoulder discomfort (“niggles”) were observed (0.9% (95% CL 0.1% – 3.3%)) and were treated with surface oxygen. One dive, for which no bubble measurements were made, resulted in a neurological DCS treated with hyperbaric oxygen. The DCS risk of this profile is below that predicted by models, and comparison of the cumulative incidence of DCS of these data to the large dataset compiled by DCIEM [1, 2], show that the incidence is lower than might be expected.
Use of indocyanine green fluorescent angiography in a hyperbaric patient with soft tissue radiation necrosis: a case report
Authors:   MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C., U.S., Johnson-Arbor Kelly , Falola Reuben ,   Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, D.C., U.S., Kelty James ,   Healogics, Inc., Jacksonville, Florida U.S., Barbour John ,   Nerve, Bone and Joint Institute, Washington, D.C., U.S., Attinger Christopher ,   MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C., U.S.
Published: January 2018

Introduction: Indocyanine green fluorescent angiography (ICFA), commonly used to assess vascularity in patients with non-healing lower extremity wounds, is emerging as a useful adjunct for hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy patients. We describe the use of ICFA to measure vascularity and help tailor an appropriate HBO2 regimen in a patient with breast soft tissue radiation necrosis (STRN). Case report: A 67-year-old female with a history of right breast cancer treated two years previously with lumpectomy and radiation therapy (6200 cGy), developed open wounds in the right breast. A diagnosis of STRN was established; the patient completed 20 HBO2 treatments, followed by surgical closure of the right breast wounds. Intraoperative ICFA demonstrated a focal area of hypovascularity at the medial margin of the incision. Due to a concern of suboptimal vascularity, the patient returned for additional HBO2 treatments. ICFA was performed after eight post-operative HBO2 treatments, and showed improved vascularity in the previously identified area of concern. Discussion: Studies of patients previously irradiated for head and neck cancer suggest that HBO2-induced vascularity is apparent after approximately eight HBO2 treatments and peaks around 20 treatments. The results from this case indicate that the doses of HBO2 needed for adequate neovascularization in patients with STRN may be variable. Conclusion: The use of ICFA may provide additional insight regarding HBO-induced angiogenesis. Additional studies are required to establish the correct number of HBO2 treatments required for angiogenesis in previously irradiated patients with STRN, and to explore the role of ICFA in patients treated with HBO2.
Kritisk självreflektion i komplexa frågor: Att hjälpa studenterna att ta makten över sitt tänkande
Authors: Wolrath Söderberg Maria
Published: January 2018

Den här artikeln handlar om studenters kritiska självreflektion. Utgångspunkten är att de former av kritiskt tänkande som vi traditionellt odlar inom högskolan är otillräckliga när det gäller vår tids kritiska frågor, som exempelvis klimatfrågan. När det rör sig om komplexa och värdeladdade frågor där många perspektiv kan vara giltiga har vi att förhålla oss till olika mänskliga mekanismer som på olika vis hindrar oss från att tänka och agera klokt, exempelvis polarisering, bekräftelsebias, glapp mellan tanke och handling och olika former av legitimeringsstrategier för att låta bli att ta ansvar. Här diskuteras sådana hinder och hur vi kan förhålla oss till dem i högre utbildning.
Improvisational approaches to supervision dialogue
Authors: Bjerstedt Sven
Published: January 2018

The reflective processes in which supervisors and doctoral students indulge together may be improvisatory to an important extent. Based on literature review and a small interview study, I argue that there are important similarities between musical improvisation and supervision dialogue regarding, for instance, the need for structure as well as continuous impulse fluidity and the need for receptivity as well as initiative. In musical improvisation as well as in supervision, it is crucial to be able to relate simultaneously, by way of qualities such as openness, wholeness, and listening, to both internal and external impulses, to both structural and communicative aspects, and to both one’s own individuality and the tradition in which one is situated. In the concluding discussion, I identify a number of implications for the education of doctoral supervisors.
Management of working capital – the Achilles heel of small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The case of Greece
Authors: Hyz Alina , Stavroulakis Dimitrios , Kalandonis Petros
Published: January 2018

Working capital represents the amount of funds invested in firms' current assets. Optimizing working capital management is a challenge and a necessity for firms especially today due to the demand volatility and limit access to bank credit. This paper investigates the relationship between working capital management and firms' performance in small and medium enterprises in Greece. The results suggests that an effective working capital management is a necessary component of firm's future growth and profitability. The analysis used data for a sample of 459 small and medium enterprises for the period from 2008 to 2012. The paper is organized as follows: in the next section we briefly present the problem based on literature review. This is followed by the presentation of research methodology and the data sources used in the analysis. The results are presented and discussed in section three. Last section summarizes the conclusions and presents further opportunities for research.
Evolution of the share capital function, as a tool for overcoming economic turmoil
Authors: Lai Luigi
Published: January 2018

The paper aims at showing that a lower share capital in limited liability companies can be a successful tool for overcoming the consequences of an economic crisis. In a period of economic turmoil insolvency is more than a simple risk. For such a reason the limited liability company shareholders, thanks to the complete financial autonomy given by the share capital, have a shield from the legitimate expectations of the creditors. The share capital protects the entrepreneur and at the same time allows faster fresh starts; nevertheless, in order for that to happen, the share capital cannot be an additional burden, instead has to be a simple formal element. The article demonstrates that in the last 50 years is visible a shift in the concept and function of the share capital. During the 50’s of the past century, the share capital was considered as a guarantee for the company’s creditors. Nowadays the European legislators across Europe are heading to consider the share capital as a mere formal element disconnected by any due quantity.
Glassphalt Concrete Production Using Stone Dust as a Filler through Trial Mix Design.
Authors: Amadi E. Nkama
Published: January 2018

Various studies have shown that waste glass has been crushed and screen and can serve as an alternative replacement of fines and coarse aggregate when mixed with Bitumen to form a glassphalt concrete which can be used in landscaping or non-load bearing walls in a building. This researched work was intended to compare and analyze the hot mix glassphalt (HMG) and the strength of asphalt concrete using trial mix design through investigative of their performances. The mineral fillers with different percentage by total weight of the mixture used in the study were crushed igneous rock that passes from 0.075mm to 200mm sieve sizes. However, this production did not only establish the usage of glassphalt but also analysis grade of bitumen like 60/70, 30/40, 80/100, 180/200 etc, its sustainability for various road uses either for priming eg. MCI, tackcoat eg. RSI, or surface dressing e.g S125. Various tests were conducted like water absorption test, marshal stability test, void ration test etc. using bitumen grade 60/70 which has a flash point of 250oc and a melting point of 48 – 56oc. Different types of glassphalt concrete was classified: Macadam, Binder course and wearing course with experimental design to determining the maximum deformation load that will deform the glassphalt concrete to aid in predicting its design life span and equally makes necessary recommendations.
Interest Free Salary-Workers Savings and Credit Co-Operative Society as A Panacea to Economic Hardship Faced By Workers in A Depressed Economy
Authors: Wailare Nasiru Bello
Published: January 2018

The conventional cooperative societies dated back to 1844 were built on interest-based operations, where interest is charged and paid on any financial advance to members and deposits made by members, respectively. Interest based transactions are not only forbidden by the two major religions in Nigeria, but are perceived to be negating the principle of mutual help and economic stability; which cooperatives are out to achieve. This paper examines the operations of interest free cooperative societies formed by salary-workers; with the aim of exploring the concept, objectives, activities, management and sources of funds to such societies. This study uses content analysis. From the review, this study found out that salary workers stand to enjoy a lot of benefits by forming Interest free co-operative societies. It is therefore concluded that Interest free savings and credit co-operative society is the most appropriate form of co-operative society through which workers used to improve on their savings.
The Mediation Effect of Effective Leadership Behavior on the Relationship between Leadership Self-Efficacy and Managerial Job Performance
Authors: Galoji Shehu Inuwa
Published: January 2018

Background: The study on leadership and what makes it effective can never be over emphasized, it was observed that since the beginning of the 19th century, there was proliferation of research studies on the leadership phenomenon aimed at enhancing the ability to predict effective leadership in organizations

Aims: -   This study attempts to examine the relationship between leadership self-efficacy and managerial job performance and whether effective leadership behavior mediates the relationship.

Methods: Quantitative data using questionnaire was collected among the branch managers of the banks.

Results: The result shows that LSE influences the managerial performance. The result shows that hypothesis H1 is hereby supported. The result of the mediation test shows that LSE is significantly related to managerial job performance. Hierarchical regression analysis was conducted using the Baron and Kenny (1986) method (four steps of mediation analysis). And the result shows partial mediation had occurred.

Conclusions: The findings of this study on the relationship between LSE and managerial job performance are in concord with previous studies. Further, future studies should consider the other dimensions of interest.
State Space Model of an Aircraft Using Simulink
Authors: Moin Lubna , Baig Aman-uz-Zaman , Uddin Vali
Published: January 2018

In aircraft designing it is crucial to understand and evaluate the behavior, performance, safety and other aspects of the systems before its operational testing. To develop a robust control system of an aircraft it is therefore necessary to have a good mathematical model of the system so that the behavior can be easily understood, predicted and controlled. In this paper the state space model of an autopilot aircraft is formulated using Simulink Matlab Function files. The proposed simulation model can be used to gain knowledge in order to make decisions at all development stages. In this paper the model  has some assumptions such as the aircraft is taken in  steady cruise at constant altitude and velocity, balancing the thrust, drag, weight and lift forces in X and Y direction, secondly change in pitch angle will not change the speed of the aircraft under any circumstances and lastly he input will be the elevation differential θd and the output will be the pitch angle θp of the aircraft. We have worked only on stability axis and emphasized on the fast settling of the system without significant overshoots. The state space model using Simulink is successfully formulated and simulated with and without controller. The angle of aircraft, pitch rate and pitch angle are selected as state variables.In addition to this the stability analysis from the state space model is also performed and improved using PD controller.
Key Performance Indicators in the Process of Performance Evaluation Selected Approaches
Authors: Dorcak Peter , Markovic Peter , Svetozarovova Nella , Pollak Frantisek
Published: January 2018

Performance management at individual level requires a systematic approach for evaluating the work and expectations, supporting such efforts of employees by providing evaluation and feedback in the form of the subsequent implementation of the appropriate corrections, while rewarding. One of the strategic assessment tools of performance management in organizations are key performance indicators (KPI) and the underlying assumption that the selected indicators can be measured or quantified. However, the fundamental problem of any performance measurement system is it´s correct assessment.  Based on this interpretation, the aim of the article is to analyze the statistically significant association between the application of performance evaluation methods in terms of the degree of KPIs implementation in organizations. For the purposes of assessing the afore mentioned relationship we have specified a set of fourteen most used evaluation methods which were then subjected to testing by Chi-square test of independence, which has been applied. To simplify and reduce the original amount of data, while maintaining a substantial part of the information, the analysis applied the multivariate statistical method of factor analysis. The research sample consists of small, medium and large organizations operating at the local, but also multinational level. The examined relationship was verified. Based on this, it can be stated that we need KPIs to make a complex picture of what organizations really need and how to achieve the set objectives.
Perceptions of Female Drivers Using Mobile Driving- Aided Applications in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Zamzami Ikhlas
Published: January 2018

Although is highly inadvisable for drivers to use their smartphone while driving, certain mobile applications provide driving assistance. These apps may come in the form of intelligent surrounding awareness apps that can alert the driver of anything amiss, for example by way of detecting potential hazards and providing collision warnings. Such apps are particularly useful for new and unexperienced drivers, as applicable to most women in Saudi Arabia where the ban on driving has just been lifted. The views and perceptions on the use of this kind of application provides valuable insight into its potential value and efficiency. Regrettably, there is a lack of studies on the user perception of mobile driving-aided applications in general and that of Saudi Arabian women drivers in particular. As a result, this study undertakes an exploratory survey to investigate the readiness of Saudi Arabian women to use mobile driving-aided applications and their perceptions. 329 respondents participated in the survey. The result indicates that a considerable number of respondents welcome the use of mobile driving-aided applications.
Largely Scalable Wireless Network Formation Architectures for Internet of Things
Authors: Orhan Orhan , Goren Huseyin
Published: January 2018

As number of mobile devices increases with Internet of Things (IoT) capability and power consumption is important in multi hop communication, there is need of considering network formation architectures inIoT networks.In this work power levels of nodes, urgency of messages to be transmitted are not taken into consideration, a general approach considered with all nodes with same power levels and no priority for messages to be sent.Another assumption is all nodes are on the same 2D plane.  Multi hop wireless network architectures studied and scalable, best performing architecture which is hypercubic network architecture is highlighted for IoT networks. Especially for large number of nodes needs to be considered hypercubic architecture performs much better than mesh, tree and ring kind of architectures in terms of dilation and number of connections. The simulation results are based on a simulator developed on C++ program. The results are showed that Hypercubic architecture with logarithmic dilation is much better than other network types. Cube Connected Cycles (CCC)based network architecture (which is derivative of Hypercube) can be preferred, especially when a constant degree is needed, in communication technologies such as Bluetooth. As a future work, a network architecture study can be made which takes energy levels and urgency of messages to be sent.
La Innovación en el área comercial a través de la gestión de las experiencias
Authors: Simonato Fernando Rogelio
Published: January 2018

El presente ensayo tiene como objetivo presentar una propuesta para la gestión del área comercial a través de la elaboración y la generación de experiencias con la creación de valor en los mercados que las organizaciones sirven. Se hace un análisis de la función de la gerencia comercial describiendo el tipo de cultura de innovación que prima en las empresas que gestionan las experiencias. Se plantean las estructuras ambidiestras en las organizaciones, y la influencia e impacto de las funciones de exploración en la gerencia comercial cuando crean y gestionan distintos tipos de experiencias. Se incluye la temática dentro del modelo de negocio. Se describen las capacidades dinámicas necesarias de las gerencias comerciales que gestionan experiencias.Observamos la importancia del análisis y gestión de las emociones en la cocreación de valor. Se aportan nuevos tipos de experiencias híbridas aplicadas en el mundo por importantes empresas. Se presentan los resultados de la primera investigación sobre experiencias del visitante a los museos argentinos y una descripción del tipo de comprador llamado “experiencial” de la industria del retail latinoamericana.
Matter
Authors: Front Matter
Published: January 2018

.
Studi Pendahuluan Fitokimia Tanaman Koleksi Arboretum Legok Pulus Garut
Authors: Handayani Retty , Rustamsyah Ardi , Perdana Farid , Ihsan Setiady , Suwandi Deden Winda
Published: January 2018

Arboretrum is a botanical garden which is an open place where there are plants that have been labeled. The purpose of this research is the preliminary study on phytochemical content of secondary metabolite compounds on the leaves of the Legok Pulus Garut arboretum collection plant. the results of the study known twenty-two types of plants contained in Arboretum Garut contain various phytochemical compounds and can be used as collection and research base of medicinal plants.

Keywords : arboretum, phytochemicals, secondary metabolites.
Pengaruh Ekstrak Etanol Daun Jambu Air (Syzygium aqueum (Burm f.)Alston) terhadap Glukosa Darah, Ureum dan Kreatinin Tikus Putih (Rattus norvegicus)
Authors: Tandi Joni
Published: January 2018

Diabetes mellitus with complications of Diabetic Nephropathy become one of the most common cause of end-stage renal failure in the world. Impaired kidney function is measured by Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR). Where the decline in GFR was followed by increased levels of blood glucose, urea and creatinine. This study aimed to determine whether there is the content of secondary metabolites in leaves of Sizygium aqueum leaf extract, at a dose of extract what impact the blood glucose, urea and creatinine levels of male rats and whether the water extract of guava leaves have an influence on the blood glucose, urea and creatinine white male rats. This study uses a randomized block design with six treatment groups consisting of five test animals. Group I was normal control (CMC Na suspension 0.5%). Group II negative control (streptozotocin 40 mg/kg). positive control group III (suspension glibenclamide). Group IV given guava leaf extract 100 mg/kg BW. V group awarded guava leaf extract 200 mg/kg BW. Group VI given guava leaf extract 300 mg/kg BW. Treatment was given for 28 days and measured levels of blood glucose urea and creatinine on days 0, 7, 14, 21 and 28. The results showed nefroprotektif effect on all groups and most effective extract are a group of guava leaf extract 100 mg/kg BW).

Keywords: Diabetic nephropathy, urea, creatinine, Syzygium aqueum
Aktivitas Antioksidan Senyawa Kumarin Ter-O-Geranilasi dari Akar Limonia acidissima L.
Authors: Tjahjandarie Tjitjik Srie , Saputri Ratih Dewi , Tanjung Mulyadi
Published: January 2018

Five O-geranylated coumarins namely as auraptene (1), 7-((2â€™E,6â€™E)-5â€™-hydroxy-3â€™,7â€™-dimethylocta-2â€™,6â€™-dienyloxy)coumarin (2), 7-(2â€™E,5â€™E)-7â€™-hydroxy-3â€™,7â€™-dimethylocta-2â€™,5â€™-dienyloxy) coumarin (3), 6-methoxy-7-oxygeranylcoumarin (4), and 8-oxygeranylpsoralen (5) were isolated from  the roots of Limonia accidissima L.  Their structures were determined  based on spectroscopic data such as UV, IR, MS and NMR. Compounds 1â€“5 were evaluated for their radical scavenging against 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), showing their IC50 were 462; 13; 260; 210 and 234 Âµg/ml, respectively.

Keywords: Limonia accidissima L.,  O-geranylated coumarins, antioxidant activity, DPPH
Autism vs language delay (which is first) the dilemma in daily practice
Authors: Albatti Turki Homod
Published: January 2018

The overlap between ASD (Autism) and language delay is very complicated especially in younger kids Here in this presentation I will give clinical tips help health care team how to make clear differentiation between this two topics using up dated subjective and objective tools like (SCQ, M-CHAT, ADOS-2) So, the participant will use this clinical value instrument in their daily practice to screen for Autism and separate this cases from speech delay with their clinical judgment.