bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Criterion for Controlling the Stress-Strain State of Composite Dielectric Materials Using the Effective Filtration Method
Authors: Surzhikov Vladimir , Fedotov Pavel
Published: September 2018

The paper presents a brief description of a process of an electromagnetic response generation from dielectric composite materials when they are subjected to an acoustic impulses, a recording method by capacitive receivers and criteria for controlling the stress-strain state (SSS) for this method. Also there are the results of studies of the applicability of the effective filtration method for the control of similar products from epoxy resin with sand filler. The formation of a response with a pronounced maximum and an excitation pulse symmetric with respect to the end time is determined when a coherent signal is input to the input of the system, which is a mirror image of the impulse response. The correlation coefficient between the left and right parts of the response was chosen as a criterion for controlling the SSS.
Mechanochemical Synthesis of Hexagonal Ferrites BaFe12O19
Authors: Zhuravlev Viktor , Nevmyvaka Anna , Itin Volya , Velikanov Dmitry
Published: September 2018

The phase composition, structural parameters, and basic magnetic characteristics of BaFe12O19 hexaferrites prepared by the mechanochemical synthesis with subsequent annealing at a temperature of 1000°С and 1100°С for 1 h are investigated. The influence of the annealing temperature on the properties of synthesized materials is analyzed. Values of the saturation magnetization and the anisotropy field are determined. It is established that annealing temperature in the interval 1000 - 1100 °C does not significantly affect on the phase composition and the size of nanoparticles. The value of the anisotropy field increases substantially with increasing temperature.
Magnetic Nanocomposites Based on Opal Matrices
Authors: Belyanin Alexey , Bagdasarian Alexander , Bagdasarian Sergey , Luchnikov Petr , Katakhova Natalya
Published: September 2018

Features of obtaining magnetic nanocomposites based on the lattice packing of SiO2 nanoscale (opal matrices) with clusters of multiferroic materials (Li-Zn, Bi, Fe, Dy, Gd and Yb titanates) in their interstitial cavities have been considered. For magnetic nanocomposites creation opal matrices with SiO2 nanoscale of ~ 260 nm in diameter have been used. The composition of nanocomposites has been also studied using X-ray diffractometry and Raman spectroscopy. The results of the frequency dependences measurement for the dielectric constant of the nanostructures obtained have been presented. Hysteresis loops have been examined for the samples obtained in the temperature range from 2 to 400 K.
Surface Geometry Model of the Capillary when Filling it with Liquid
Authors: Kalinichenko Alexey , Lobanova Irina , Meshheryakov Vladimir , Surzhikov Anatoly
Published: September 2018

Nondestructive penetrant testing is effective, and in some cases, it is the only possible method of accidents prevention at high-risk sites. But in nowadays liquid-filled discontinuity model has not been adequately studied. Hydrodynamics in the open-end capillaries characterize the flow of liquids using the methods of leak detection. To detect surface discontinuities that are capillary, capillary flaw detection methods are used. Until now, the theoretical relation l = l (t) has not been find out. This relation makes it possible to calculate the absorption kinetics in any capillary at all its stages, which would coincide with experimental data with high accuracy. The studies show that the time of filling the capillaries by liquid is usually higher than the theoretically predicted one. Therefore, revealing the regularities of filling capillaries with liquids to the maximum depth and the duration of filling the capillary with liquid by a given depth is an actual task. The authors suggest a model for determining the velocity of fluid in dead-end and open-end and through capillaries, which take into account the fractal topology of the surface.
Influence of Radiation Various Doses on Food Products and Feeds
Authors: Kurbangaleev Yagofar , Konyukhov Gennady , Nizamov Ramsi , Vasilevskiy Nikolai , Tarasova Natalya , Velikanov Valerian , Aslanov Rashid
Published: September 2018

Animal and plant products subjected to various doses of radiation were examined to measure the concentration of quinoid radiotoxins (QRTs) by the indirect hemagglutination (IHA) test using anantibody diagnosticum produced on the basis of immunoglobulin obtained through the hyperimmunization of sheep with a quinoid radiotoxin of plant origin. The irradiation of plant raw materials was performed in the "Issledovatel" gamma ray facility at a dose of 0.4 kGy. It has been found that the titers of radiotoxinsin the irradiated products depend on the type of product, the radiation dose as well as the length of the post-irradiation storage period. With the doses designated, in compliance with the technology, to extend the shelf life of potatoes and onions, the titer sranged from 1:8 to 1:74.7 in potatoes and from 1:10.7 to 1:85.3 in onions between days 3 and 30 after the radiation exposure. In the wheat and oats grains irradiated at doses of 0.3 and 0.7 kGy this indicator was 1:6.7-1:37.3. Between days 2 and 21 after the exposure to a dose of 25 kGy, QRT titers in the grainsranged from 1:21.3 to 1:53.3, against the titers of 1:0.7-1:2 in the non-irradiated grains. The titers of radiotoxins in the meat exposed to the doses of 10 and 20 kGy were 1:6.7-1:26.7 between days 3 and 30 after the radiation exposure. QRT levels in animal internal organs (liver) were greaterby 1-2 log2 than those in the meat. Elevated QRT levels in all of these irradiated products were recorded within the initial 45 days after the radiation exposure. On day 60, radiotoxin titers were at the same level as the control products.
Influence of Photochemical Reactions on the Content and Transformation of Mineral Nitrogen in Sod-Podzol Soil
Authors: Novoselov Sergey
Published: September 2018

The article discusses the photochemical effects of sunlight on the soil. Under the influence of light energy the amount of mineral and easy hydrolysable nitrogen, as well as labile humus substances increased in the soil. The photochemical destruction of humus substances was accompanied by an increase in their mobility and loss of colour. The article shows that the process of mineral nitrogen formation in the soil during the photochemical destruction of humus substances has two stages. The first stage includes photochemical reactions with the formation of ammonium nitrogen. The second stage is the microbiological oxidation of ammonium nitrogen to the nitrate nitrogen.
The Study and Exposure of Laws of Distribution Protein Substances in Uroliths
Authors: Golovanova Olga
Published: September 2018

The characterization of urinary stones mineral and organic composition in Omsk region and Saint-Petersburg (Russia) was studied. It was established that nature and amount of amino acids and trace elements in composition of phosphate, oxalate and urate urinary stones are different. For studying processes of formation of the main mineral phase of urinary stones on the model systems powders of calcium oxalate monohydrate and hydroxyapatite with molar Ca/P ration 1.57 –1.67 were synthesized. The determination of electro kinetic properties and particle size of synthesized powders were made. The effects of amino acids (glutamic acid, glycine and lysine) on the process of formation of calcium oxalate monohydrate and hydroxyapatite were investigated. It was shown that amino acids inhibited growth and aggregation of calcium oxalate monohydrate and hydroxyapatite particles and preferential adsorb on to their crystal surface.
Computer Simulation of Vacancy Clusters Distribution by Depth in Molybdenum Irradiated by Alpha Particles
Authors: Kupchishin Anatoliy I. , Voronova Nataliya A. , Shmygaleva Tatyana A. , Kupchishin Alexander A.
Published: September 2018

Computer simulation of vacancy clusters distribution by depth in molybdenum irradiated by alpha particles within Cascade probability method has been carried out. Cascade probability functions have been calculated taking into account energy losses for alpha particles in molybdenum and depending on number of interactions and depth of particles penetration. Microhardness comparison of calculations and modified experimental data show their satisfactory fit.
Study of the Influence of Uniaxial Strain and Electron Irradiation on the Deformation of Polytetrafluoroethylene Film
Authors: Kupchishin Anatoliy I. , Niyazov Marat N. , Ghyngazov Sergei , Voronova Nataliya A. , Kupchishin Alexander A.
Published: September 2018

Experimental studies of the dependence of the deformation ε1max on the strain σ and the relative changes in the width and thickness of the unirradiated and irradiated polytetrafluoroethylene film on the relative elongation are carried out. It was found that these quantities depend essentially on the load. The curves obtained are satisfactorily described by a linear model.
Dynamics of Surface Heating and Quenching of Titanium by a Submillisecond Intense Electron Beam
Authors: Teresov Anton D. , Koval Tamara , Moskvin Pavel , Kim An Chan Mi , Koval Nikolay
Published: September 2018

The paper presents measurements taken with a high-speed infrared pyrometer for the surface temperature of VT1-0 titanium alloy during pulsed electron beam irradiation at different pulse energy densities. Also presented are numerical simulation data on thermal fields for the same conditions, showing a good agreement with the measurements. The results demonstrate that the heating rate of the VT1-0 surface depends on the main beam parameters, and its solidification occurs at a temperature ≈ 280 °C lower than the melting point.
Bioclimatic assessment of abiotic factors affecting relative abundance and distribution of wheat stem sawfly (Hymenoptera: Cephidae) in western Canada
Authors: Olfert Owen , Weiss Ross M. , Catton Haley , Cárcamo Héctor , Meers Scott
Published: September 2018

Wheat stem sawfly,Cephus cinctusNorton (Hymenoptera: Cephidae), indigenous to North America, quickly adapted from host native grasses to wheat crops (TriticumLinnaeus (Poaceae)) with expansion of agriculture on the Great Plains of North America. Bioclimatic simulation tools, such as Climex, predict the potential geographic distribution and establishment of insects in ecosystems, based on climate. The ecoclimatic index, a measure of ecological suitability, integrates potential population growth with stresses to produce estimates of relative abundance. This simulation software was used to develop a bioclimate model forC. cinctusin western Canada. Results fostered a better understanding of howC. cinctusresponded to selected climate variables. Two general circulation models were then applied to assess the response ofC. cinctuspopulations to future climate. Relative to current climate, predicted changes inC. cinctusdistribution and relative abundance were greatest for 2030, with a small further increase for 2070. Across the Prairies and Boreal Plains Ecozones, changes in ecoclimatic index were greater than in geographic distribution. Both general circulation models indicated most of this area would be categorised as very favourable. This suggests that the potential for pest populations could expand into areas that do not currently experience economic losses associated withC. cinctus.
Neutrophil Caspase-11 Is Required for Cleavage of Caspase-1 and Secretion of IL-1β in Aspergillus fumigatus Infection
Authors: Sun Yan , Abbondante Serena , Karmakar Mausita , de Jesus Carrion Steven , Che Chengye , Hise Amy G. , Pearlman Eric
Published: September 2018

Neutrophils are an important source of IL-1β secretion in bacterial infections, where they infiltrate affected tissues in log-fold higher numbers than macrophages. Neutrophils also have functional NLRP3 and NLRC4 inflammasomes that can process pro–IL-1β to the bioactive 17-kDa form. In the current study, we examined the role of IL-1β in response to corneal infection with the filamentous fungus Aspergillus fumigatus and found that neutrophils were the predominant source of bioactive IL-1β in the cornea. We also observed that caspase-11−/− mice exhibit the same susceptibility phenotype as IL-1β−/−, ASC−/−, NLRP3−/−, and caspase-1−/− mice, with impaired neutrophil recruitment to infected corneas and increased hyphal growth. We further demonstrate that caspase-11 is required for caspase-1 activation and IL-1β processing during infection. In vitro, we show that caspase-11 is regulated by the common type I IFN receptor (IFNAR) through JAK-STAT signaling and that caspase-11 is required for speck formation and caspase-1 activity. Aspergillus spores (conidia) stimulate IL-1β processing and secretion in neutrophils activation of Dectin-1 and signaling through the Raf1 kinase/MEKK rather than the spleen tyrosine kinase pathway. Collectively, these findings reveal unexpected regulation of IL-1β production by neutrophils in response to pathogenic fungi.
Short Leucine-Rich Proteoglycans Modulate Complement Activity and Increase Killing of the Respiratory Pathogen Moraxella catarrhalis
Authors: Laabei Maisem , Liu Guanghui , Ermert David , Lambris John D. , Riesbeck Kristian , Blom Anna M.
Published: September 2018

The respiratory pathogen Moraxella catarrhalis is a human-specific commensal that frequently causes acute otitis media in children and stimulates acute exacerbations in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. The exact molecular mechanisms defining host–pathogen interactions promoting pathogenesis are not clearly understood. Limited knowledge hampers vaccine and immunotherapeutic development required to treat this emerging pathogen. In this study, we reveal in detail a novel antibacterial role displayed by short leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRPs) in concert with complement. We show that fibromodulin (FMOD), osteoadherin (OSAD), and biglycan (BGN) but not decorin (DCN) enhance serum killing of M. catarrhalis. Our results suggest that M. catarrhalis binding to SLRPs is a conserved feature, as the overwhelming majority of clinical and laboratory strains bound all four SLRPs. Furthermore, we resolve the binding mechanism responsible for this interaction and highlight the role of the ubiquitous surface protein (Usp) A2/A2H in mediating binding to host SLRPs. A conserved immune evasive strategy used by M. catarrhalis and other pathogens is the surface acquisition of host complement inhibitors such as C4b-binding protein (C4BP). We observed that FMOD, OSAD, and BGN competitively inhibit binding of C4BP to the surface of M. catarrhalis, resulting in increased C3b/iC3b deposition, membrane attack complex (MAC) formation, and subsequently decreased bacterial survival. Furthermore, both OSAD and BGN promote enhanced neutrophil killing in vitro, both in a complement-dependent and independent fashion. In summary, our results illustrate that SLRPs, FMOD, OSAD, and BGN portray complement-modulating activity enhancing M. catarrhalis killing, defining a new antibacterial role supplied by SLRPs.
A qualitative study of urban hospital transitional care
Authors: Feinglass Joe , Wein Samuel , Teter Caroline , Schaeffer Christine , Rogers Angela
Published: September 2018

This study is part of a mixed methods evaluation of a large urban medical center transitional care practice (NMG-TC). The NMG-TC provides integrated physical and behavioral health care for high need patients referred from the hospital emergency department or inpatient units and who lack a usual source of primary care. The study was designed for internal quality improvement and sought to evaluate staff perceptions of successful transitions for their medically and socially complex patients, and alternatively, the obstacles most likely to negatively impact patient outcomes. All 16 NMG-TC patient care staff were interviewed in a collaborative effort to produce empowered testimony that might go beyond expected clinical narratives. The interview schedule included questions on risk stratification, integrated mental health care, provider to provider handoffs, and how staff deal with key social determinates of patients’ health. The constant comparative method was used to deductively derive themes reflecting key domains of transitional care practice. Seven themes emerged: i) the need to quickly assess patient complexity; ii) emphasizing caring for major mental health and substance use issues; iii) obstacles to care for uninsured, often undocumented patients; iv) the intractability of homelessness; v) expertise in advancing patients’ health literacy, engagement and activation; vi) fragmented handoffs from hospital care and vii) to primary care in the community. Respondent stories emphasized methods of nurturing patients’ self-efficacy in a very challenging urban health environment. Findings will be used to conceptualize pragmatic, potentially high-impact transitional care quality improvement initiatives capable of better addressing frequent hospital use.
The burden of care, quality of life and depression in relatives of patients with serious mental illness treated at Lentegeur Hospital
Authors: Nhlabathi Sihle , Parker John , Chiliza Bonginkosi , Phahladira Lebogang
Published: September 2018

Background: The association between caregiver burden, quality of life and depression in patients with mental illness in a resource-limited setting is underresearched. Factors associated with caregiver burden may be amenable to intervention.Aim: To describe the level of caregiver burden and its association with quality of life and depression.Methods: The cross-sectional study was carried out in a psychiatric hospital in the Cape Flats, which is an urban area on the periphery of Cape Town. Data were collected from 104 caregivers of patients attending the outpatients service. Caregiver burden was measured using the Zarit Burden Interview questionnaire. The PHQ-9 questionnaire was to screen and measure severity of symptoms of depression. The WHOQOL-BREF was used to measure the subjective evaluation of the quality of life.Results: Most caregivers were female (76.92%), and caregivers were mild to moderately stressed (mean ZBS score 33.38 ± 21.59) and experienced moderate depression (mean PHQ-9 score). These effects were significantly associated with quality of life in psychological and social domains.Conclusion: Caring for patients with mental illness can lead to immense physical and psychological distress, leading to poor quality of life. Strategies that may reduce the burden of care may include improving the patients’ quality of life and addressing psychosocial support, and clinicians should consider screening for symptoms of depression in caregivers.
Mechanics and Mechanisms of Pulmonary Hypertension — Conference Summary and Translational Perspectives
Authors: Seeger Werner , Pullamsetti Soni S.
Published: September 2018

The imagination has made more discoveries than the eye

To catch an imagination of the future of pulmonary hypertension was exactly the spirit of the 55th ASPEN lung Conference. Basic scientists, pre‐clinicians, clinicians and pharma joined together to achieve one goal—to combine creativity and inventiveness in a battle against a deadly disease. Summarizing this conference on “Mechanics and Mechanisms of Pulmonary Hypertension” is challenging in several aspects: To extract key novel findings from 12 state‐of‐the‐art lectures, 25 oral presentations, 56 posters along with the integration of own data on discussed topics, to include hundreds of important questions, answers and discussion raised during the conference, to provide the line of thinking for the next 5–10 years of pulmonary hypertension (PH) research development and to focus equally well on both basic and translational research. Kurt Stenmark and Todd Bull, who chaired the conference, intensified this challenge several‐fold by selecting a plethora of topics ranging from development of cardiopulmonary systems to pathogenesis of right ventricular failure, mechanics of right ventricle‐pulmonary artery coupling to genomics and from understanding metabolic aspects to developing therapies for PH. With that, need not say, but a special admiration and thanks to the conference chairs for assembling such outstanding state‐of‐the‐art speakers, for clustering the presentations logically and for leading lively and engaging discussions. Although it may look fragmentary, we would like to divide the conference summary into four major conceptual realms: The pulmonary vasculature in PH; right heart in PH; individualized approach‐ personalized medicine; and beyond PH‐vascular abnormalities in COPD.

‐ Joseph Joubert
Wave activity in front of high-β Earth bow shocks
Authors: Petrukovich Anatoli A. , Chugunova Olga M. , Shustov Pavel I.
Published: September 2018

Abstract. Earth's bow shock in high β (ratio of thermal to magnetic pressure) solar wind environment is relatively rare phenomenon. However such a plasma object may be of interest for astrophysics. We survey statistics of high-β (β > 10) shock observations by near-Earth spacecraft since 1995. Typical solar wind parameters related with high β are: low speed, high density and very low IMF 1–2 nT. These conditions are usually quite transient and need to be verified immediately upstream of the observed shock crossings. About a hundred crossings were initially identified mostly with quazi-perpendicular geometry and high Mach number. In this report 22 Cluster project crossings are studied with spacecraft separation within 30–200 km. Observed shock front structure is different from that for quaziperpendicular supercritical shocks with β = 1. There is no well defined ramp. Dominating magnetic waves have frequency 0.1–0.5 Hz (in some events 1–2 Hz). Polarization has no stable phase and is closer to linear. In some cases it is possible to determine wavelength at 0.1–0.5 Hz of the order of 200–900 km.
Improving collisional growth in Lagrangian cloud models: development and verification of a new splitting algorithm
Authors: Schwenkel Johannes , Hoffmann Fabian , Raasch Siegfried
Published: September 2018

Abstract. Lagrangian cloud models (LCMs) are increasingly used in the cloud physics
community. They not only enable a very detailed representation of cloud
microphysics but also lack numerical errors typical for most other models.
However, insufficient statistics, caused by an inadequate number of
Lagrangian particles to represent cloud microphysical processes, can limit
the applicability and validity of this approach. This study presents the
first use of a splitting and merging algorithm designed to improve the warm
cloud precipitation process by deliberately increasing or decreasing the
number of Lagrangian particles under appropriate conditions. This new
approach and the details of how splitting is executed are evaluated in box
and single-cloud simulations, as well as a shallow cumulus test case. The
results indicate that splitting is essential for a proper representation of
the precipitation process. Moreover, the details of the splitting method
(i.e., identifying the appropriate conditions) become insignificant for
larger model domains as long as a sufficiently large number of Lagrangian
particles is produced by the algorithm. The accompanying merging algorithm is
essential to constrict the number of Lagrangian particles in order to
maintain the computational performance of the model. Overall, splitting and
merging do not affect the life cycle and domain-averaged macroscopic
properties of the simulated clouds. This new approach is a useful addition to
all LCMs since it is able to significantly increase the number of Lagrangian
particles in appropriate regions of the clouds, while maintaining a
computationally feasible total number of Lagrangian particles in the entire
model domain.
A comprehensive model for the kyr and Myr time scales of Earth's axial magnetic dipole field
Authors: Morzfeld Matthias , Buffett Bruce A.
Published: September 2018

Abstract. We consider a stochastic differential equation model for Earth's axial magnetic dipole field. The model's parameters are estimated using diverse and independent data sources that had previously been treated separately. The result is a numerical model that is informed by the full paleomagnetic record on kyr to Myr time scales and whose outputs match data of Earth's dipole in a precisely defined feature-based sense. Specifically, we compute model parameters and associated uncertainties that lead to model outputs that match spectral data of Earth's axial magnetic dipole field but our approach also reveals difficulties with simultaneously matching spectral data and reversal rates. This could be due to model deficiencies or inaccuracies in the limited amount of data. More generally, the approach we describe can be seen as an example of an effective strategy for combining diverse data sets that is particularly useful when the amount of data is limited.
Past and future dynamics of the Brunt Ice Shelf from seabed bathymetry and ice shelf geometry
Authors: Hodgson Dominic A. , Jordan Tom A. , De Rydt Jan , Fretwell Peter T. , Seddon Samuel A. , Becker David , Hogan Kelly A. , Smith Andrew M. , Vaughan David G.
Published: September 2018

Abstract. The recent rapid growth of rifts in the Brunt Ice Shelf appears to signal the onset of its largest calving event since records began in 1915. The aim of this study is to determine whether this calving event will lead to a new steady state where the Brunt Ice Shelf remains in contact with the bed, or an unpinning from the bed, which could pre-dispose it to accelerated flow or possible break-up. We use a range of geophysical data to reconstruct the seafloor bathymetry and ice shelf geometry, to examine past ice sheet configurations in the Brunt Basin, and to define the present-day geometry of the contact between the Brunt Ice Shelf and the bed. Results show that during past ice advances grounded ice streams converged in the Brunt Basin from the south and east. The ice then retreated pausing on at least three former grounding lines marked by topographic highs, and transverse ridges on the flanks of the basin. These have subsequently formed pinning points for advancing ice shelves. The ice shelf geometry and bathymetry measurements show that the base of the Brunt Ice Shelf now only makes contact with one of these topographic highs. This contact is limited to an area of less than 1.3 to 3 km2 and results in a compressive regime that helps to maintain the ice shelf. The maximum overlap between ice shelf thickness and the bathymetry is 2–25 m, and is contingent on the presence of incorporated iceberg keels, which protrude beneath the base of the ice shelf. The future of the ice shelf is dependent on whether the expected calving event causes full or partial loss of contact with the bed, and whether the subsequent response causes re-grounding within a predictable period, or a loss of structural integrity resulting from properties inherited at the grounding line.
Wind inflow observation from load harmonics: wind tunnel validation of the rotationally symmetric formulation
Authors: Bertelè Marta , Bottasso Carlo L. , Cacciola Stefano
Published: September 2018

Abstract. The present paper further develops and experimentally validates the previously published idea of estimating the wind inflow at a turbine rotor disk from the machine response. A linear model is formulated that relates one per revolution (1P) harmonics of the in- and out-of-plane blade root bending moments to four wind parameters, representing vertical and horizontal shears and misalignment angles. Improving on this concept, the present work exploits the rotationally symmetric behaviour of the rotor in the formulation of the load-wind model. In a nutshell, this means that the effects on the loads of the vertical shear and misalignment are the same as those of the horizontal quantities, simply shifted by π / 2. This results in a simpler identification of the model, which needs a reduced set of observations. The performance of the proposed method is first tested in a simulation environment and then validated with an experimental data set obtained with an aeroelastically scaled turbine model in a boundary layer wind tunnel.
Effects of Sugar Beets on Steer Backgrounding Performance, Sheep Nutrient Metabolism, and Rumen Fermentation Characteristics
Authors: McGregor Ian R. , Page Chad M. , Stewart Whitney C. , Van Emon Megan L.
Published: September 2018

A performance and metabolism study were performed to evaluate the effects of sugar beets on steer backgrounding performance, sheep nutrient metabolism, and rumen fermentation characteristics. In both experiments, four dietary treatments were used where sugar beets replaced 0% (0SB), 15% (15SB), 30% (30SB), or 45% (45SB) of barley on a DM basis. Forty-eight Angus steers were used in a completely randomized design to conduct the 50 d performance study. Neither ADG nor G:F were effected (P ≥ 0.33) by treatment. In the metabolism study, a 4 x 4 replicated Latin Square design was used to observe the effects of increasing dietary inclusion of sugar beets on the nutrient metabolism and ruminal ferme ntation characteristics of eight growing wethers. A cubic effect (P = 0.04) was observed for nitrogen balance. Propionate concentration decreased linearly (P = 0.05) with increasing sugar beets in the diet. The acetate to propionate ratio increased linearly (P = 0.03) with increasing sugar beets in the diet. Butyrate concentration demonstrated a treatment × time effect (P = 0.01), where butyrate concentration increased with increasing sugar beets in the diet at 1300. Rumen pH exhibited a quadratic effect (P = 0.05) at 1300 h, with 15SB having the greatest pH and 45SB having the least pH. Our results allow us to conclude that replacing barley with sugar beets up to 45% of the diet dry matter will have no deleterious effects on steer backgrounding performance or sheep nutrient metabolism, but may alter rumen fermentation patterns.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Vol. 6, No. 3, September 2018
Authors: Williams Richard
Published: September 2018

Journal of Agricultural Studies would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether JAS publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 6, Number 3 Abhishek A. Cukkemane, Bijasu Agri Research Laboratory LLP, IndiaAnil Kumar Matta, Vaddeswaram, Guntur dst, IndiaBabak Mohammadi, University of Tehran, IranChenlin Hu, The Ohio State University, USAEben von Well, Agricultural Research Council, South AfricaEliana Mariela Werbin, National University of Cordoba, ArgentinianErnest Baafi, CSIR-Crops Research Institute, GhanaEwa Moliszewska, Opole University, PolandGerardo Ojeda, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, ColombiaPramod Kumar Mishra, University of Hyderabad, IndiaSahar Bahmani, University of Wisconsin at Parkside, USASait Engindeniz, Ege University Faculty of Agriculture, TurkeyZakaria Fouad Abdallah, National Research Centre, EgyptZhao Chen, Clemson University, USAZoi M. Parissi, School of Forestry and Natural Environment Aristotle University, Greece Richard Williams,EditorJournal of Agricultural Studies-------------------------------------------Macrothink Institute5348 Vegas Dr.#825Las Vegas, Nevada 89108United StatesPhone: 1-702-953-1852 ext.521Fax: 1-702-420-2900Email: jas@macrothink.orgURL: http://jas.macrothink.org
Hepatic resection for two giant hepatocellular carcinoma after oral direct-acting antiviral therapy: Is there a relationship?
Authors: Abdel Wahab Mohamed , Shehta Ahmed , Ali Mahmoud
Published: September 2018

Introduction: Direct-acting antiviral drugs have been recently introduced for management of chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) patients. Those medications have achieved a dramatic improvement of sustained virologic response (SVR) reaching almost 90%. However, reports regarding the increased risk of occurrence or recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in chronic HCV patients who achieved SVR after direct-acting antiviral drugs are controversial.Methods: We report two cases of giant HCCs complicating chronic HCV infection after direct-acting antiviral drugs-based therapies and were managed by major hepatic resection.Results: Two male patients with chronic HCV infection received several regimens oral direct acting antiviral drugs with a SVR for 3 and 6 months, respectively. They complained of progressive right hypochondrial pain and abdominal enlargement. Two large HCCs were diagnosed (16.2 cm * 17.6 cm * 16.9 cm, and 18 cm * 13 cm * 16.5 cm in dimensions) with markedly elevated serum alpha feto-protein (36,000 and 7,000 ng/ml, respectively). Due to the presence of adequate residual liver volume, the decision was to proceed for surgical resection. Central hepatectomy and extended right hemi-hepatectomy were performed, respectively. Patients had smooth postoperative course and were discharged after 10 and 9 days, respectively.Conclusion: The relationship between direct-acting antiviral drugs and HCC is controversial. Those cases add support to the accumulating literature suggesting the relationship of HCC development in chronic HCV patients receiving direct-acting antiviral drugs. Further prospective studies with adequate long term follow up are needed to prove or disprove this relationship.
Revision Metacarpophalangeal Arthroplasty: A Longitudinal Study of 128 Cases
Authors: Wagner Eric R. , Houdek Matthew T. , Packard Benjamin , Moran Steven L. , Rizzo Marco
Published: September 2018

Purpose:

The objective was to examine outcomes associated with a large cohort of revision metacarpophalangeal (MCP) arthroplasties.

Methods:

A review of 128 revision MCP arthroplasties performed in 64 patients was performed. The mean age at surgery was 62 years. Fifty nonconstrained (31 pyrocarbon and 19 surface-replacing arthroplasty) and 78 constrained silicone implants were used for revisions.

Results:

At a follow-up of 6 years (2 to 16), 20 (16%) implants required a secondary revision surgery. The 5- and 10-year survival rates were 81% and 79%, respectively. Postoperative dislocation occurred in 17 (13%) MCP joints. Subgroup analysis demonstrated a 5-year survival rate of 67% in surface-replacing arthroplasties, compared with 83% for both pyrocarbon and silicone implants (hazard ratio, 2.60; P = 0.09). Clinical improvements in pain and MCP range of motion were noted in most patients postoperatively.

Conclusions:

Revision MCP arthroplasty is a challenging procedure with one in five patients requiring a revision procedure at 5 years and a relatively high rate of postoperative dislocations. However, most patients who did not undergo a secondary revision surgery experienced improvements in pain and range of motion. Worse outcomes are seen in patients with a history of MCP dislocations.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV
Organizações Não Governamentais, Jovens Pobres e Educadores Sociais nas Cidades
Authors: Borba Patrícia Leme de Oliveira , Lopes Roseli Esquerdo
Published: September 2018

Trata-se da análise das práticas de educadores sociais no interior de duas Organizações Não Governamentais - ONGs - numa grande cidade do estado de São Paulo, atuantes no campo da educação e da assistência social, que se dedicam ao trabalho preventivo com jovens em situação de vulnerabilidade social, no período contrário ao escolar. Trabalhou-se com observação participante e entrevistas semi-estruturadas, sendo que o conjunto desse material foi analisado com base nas seguintes categorias: o papel das ONGs/Terceiro Setor na sociedade contemporânea, a condição atual da juventude pobre e urbana, a educação e o educador social. Conclui-se que as práticas educativas que ocorrem nos espaços estudados podem favorecer, no microssocial, de maneira individualizada, ampliações das redes sociais de suporte dos jovens pobres. Contudo, as ONGs, na estrutura social em que estão inseridas, reproduzem suas desigualdades sociais, econômicas e políticas, operam na lógica do assistencialismo, contribuindo para a manutenção do status quo.
Influence of long-term cold stress on enzymatic antioxidative defense system in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Yousefi Valiollah , Ahmadi Jafar , Sadeghzadeh-Ahari Davoud , Esfandiari Ezatollah
Published: September 2018

Abiotic stresses such as cold, heat, and drought are the main causes of universal crop losses. Plants have generated adaptive responses which prevent them from oxidative damage caused by environmental stresses. The present research aimed to evaluate the effect of cold stress on lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme activity in the leaves of eight cultivars / advanced lines of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Three-week-old plantlets were subjected to cold stress (0°C) for 24 or 48 hours. Selected antioxidant enzyme activity and oxidative status of chickpea plantlets under cold stress were determined. In most genotypes, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities were increased and guaiacol peroxidase activity decreased under stress conditions but the activity of superoxide dismutase remained almost constant. Based on its ranking, Cicer arietinum ‘Saral’, a newly released cold-resistant Iranian chickpea cultivar, had the strongest, and FLIP 05-77C had the weakest antioxidative defense system under low temperature stress.
The significance of resocialization diagnosis in the work of an adult probation officer
Authors: Janus-Dębska Anna
Published: September 2018

In accordance with the legal regulation of the Criminal Code and the Executive Penal Code in force in Poland, both in preparatory and executive proceedings, the court should make decisions based on an individual criminological prediction. In many European countries, reports in trial phase, pre-trial reports, as well as pre-sentence reports are prepared by probation officers. In Poland, the court often uses the help of probation officers during the enforcement phase, sporadically before the judgment is passed.
Diagnosis properly prepared by a probation officer allows planning social rehabilitation interactions appropriate to the deficits and resources of the convicted person.
It is important to acquire detailed knowledge about the extent of the probationer's problems and their character, which will help in the implementation of proper and effective interactions.
Probation center - a Polish way of complementary resocialization of minors in an open environment
Authors: Kozłowski Paweł
Published: September 2018

The article presents the concept of conducting enforcement proceedings regarding the implementation of an educational measure for minors in a probation center. A brief description of the subject of this procedure, i.e., juveniles, was provided and the group of minors most often directed to probation centers by courts was indicated. Objectives and assumptions of educational and resocialization activities in these facilities were synthetically characterized on the basis of relevant provisions. The problem of the availability of probation centers in individual areas of courts of appeal was also presented, and what follows, limitations in the possibility of the ruling of this educational measure by the youth court.
Possibility of joint impact of probation officers from the criminal and family divisions performing tasks in one family
Authors: Samek Aleksander
Published: September 2018

The article highlights the possibility of joint impacts of probation officers of both divisions (family and criminal) performing tasks in one family. The above issue was analyzed in three aspects: historical, organizational, legal and methodological. Conclusions that arise after analysis lead to believe that the guardianship system has developed in several directions, and the role of probation officers is currently differently understood by judges, probation officers and the society. Probation officers perform a very wide range of tasks related to the implementation of court decisions. Their preparation for the profession has been standardized. Graduates of pedagogical, psychological, sociological and legal faculties may become probation officers. Year-long apprenticeship is aimed at deepening the knowledge of the future probation officer in the field of work methodology. The author believes that the issue of cooperation of probation officers performing tasks in one family should become the subject of in-depth analysis, both legal and methodological. Well-prepared and implemented cooperation between probation officers of both divisions can bring a measurable increase in effectiveness of rehabilitation-educational actions carried out in an open environment.
The role of the family court in Poland in preventing manifestations of demoralization and juvenile delinquency on the example of preventive and re-socialization activities of probation officers
Authors: Wirkus Łukasz
Published: September 2018

The article in a holistic manner discusses the family court’s role in preventing the phenomenon of demoralization and crime in minors and presents the current space of cooperation of court probation officers with the family court through the prism of multi-context and multidisciplinary preventive and re-socialization activity. The article discusses educational and therapeutic measures as well as corrective measures taken by the court towards the minor and other possibilities of practical impact on his environment. The paper also includes an analysis of the scope of family probation in proceedings concerning young offenders. The proposed concept of interventions at the pre-judicial and judicial levels underlies the Council of Europe recommendations covering the principles of environmental involvement and continuity of care. The activity of the family court and the probation officer constitutes an important educational and re-socialization, preventive as well as repressive and control mechanism in the structures of justice in Poland.
Quality of life after out of hospital interventional orthopaedic & regenerative medicine procedures in an integrated service delivery model
Authors: Doss Arockia Xavier
Published: September 2018

Background & Aim: Out of hospital interventional orthopaedic and regenerative medicine (IORM) procedures are a new addition to the subspecialty of interventional radiology. This study aimed to assess health outcomes following IORM procedures in an outpatient integrated service delivery model in clinical practice.Methods: Retrospective study of all patients who completed the pre- and post-procedure EuroQol 5D5L questionnaire over a 6 month period.Results: Forty-eight patients (age range=32-89, mean=60.5, median=63.5 years) were eligible. Mean and median pre-treatment EQ5D5L index values of 0.53 and 0.61(range: -0.248 to 0.879, SD: 0.28, 95% CI: [0.45, 0.61]) improved to 0.73 and 0.73 (range: 0.414-1.0; SD: 0.13, 95% CI [0.69, 0.76]) (p < 0.01, Cohen ‘d’ = 0.93) post-treatment. Improvements in ‘no problems’ in each health dimension were: pain (mathematical infinity), mobility (109%), usual activities (137.5%), self- care (56%), anxiety/depression (23.3%). Reductions in ‘any problems’ in each dimension of health were: pain (-14.5%), mobility (-32%), usual activities (-27.5%), self-care (-60.87%), anxiety/depression (-38.8%). Pre-treatment, a strong negative correlation between EQ5D5L index values versus mobility levels (r = -0.67, p < 0.01) and versus usual activities (r = -0.62, p < 0.01) was present. Post-treatment, a strong negative correlation between EQ5D5L index scores versus pain level (r = -0.68, p <0.01) and versus mobility (r = -0.75, p <0.01) was present.Conclusion: Significant improvements in all health dimensions with a large treatment effect was shown following outpatient IORM procedures in an integrated interventional radiology service delivery model. Improvements in mobility and pain were the most important determinants of health.
Variables associated with perceived work role performance among mental healthcare professionals: The importance of team dynamics
Authors: Fleury Marie-Josée , Grenier Guy , Bamvita Jean-Marie , Markon Marie-Pierre , Chiocchio François
Published: September 2018

Rationale, aims, and objectives: Team effectiveness is associated not only with team design, but also with team dynamics such as work role performance. This study aimed to: (1) identify variables associated with perceived work role performance in a sample of 315 mental health professionals and (2) assess the contributions of team members and team characteristics; organizational and territorial context; team emergent states and team processes.Method: Mental health professionals from 4 health service networks in Quebec, Canada, completed a self-administered questionnaire consisting of standardized scales. Based on a conceptual framework adapted from the Input-Mediator-Output-Input (IMOI) model, independent variables were organized according to: (1) characteristics of team members and their teams, (2) organizational and territorial context, (3) team emergent states and (4) team processes. Their respective contributions to perceived work role performance were tested using a hierarchical regression analysis.Results: Perceived work role performance was associated with younger age (characteristics of team members and their team), familiarity between co-workers (Team emergent states) and belief in interprofessional collaboration, knowledge-sharing, team interdependence and team support (Team processes). Most variation in work role performance was explained by Team emergent states, followed by Team processes.Conclusion: This study tested a large number of variables associated with perceived work role performance in mental healthcare based on a comprehensive and innovative, theory-driven framework. The inclusion of mental health professionals from several types of teams representing mental health networks in different geographical areas added value to the study. The results confirm the need for managers to optimize team emergent states and team processes in order to improve work role performance. Initiatives such as training in teamwork and clinical guidelines are recommended.
Meanings of participation in hospital care - as narrated by patients
Authors: Nilsson Åsa , Lindberg Birgitta , Söderberg Siv , Olsson Malin
Published: September 2018

Objective: Patient participation is said to be an important factor for patients to experience satisfaction and quality with hospital care. Still, little is known about what participation actually means for patients in the specific context of hospital settings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to elucidate meanings of participation as narrated by patients.Method: Narrative interviews were conducted during the Autumn of 2013 until the Spring of 2014 and then phenomenological hermeneutically interpreted. In this study, we suggest that the phenomenon of participation in hospital care is experienced by the patient when being a co-creator and seen as an important person in a trustful context.Results: The results illustrate that an experience of an open, cooperative and coherent environment invites and contributes to participate despite being in a vulnerable situation. The study highlights the importance of responding to each patient as a person, who sometimes has a need to participate actively and sometimes wants to hand over and assume the role of patient in the hospital care setting.Discussion: Meanings of participation among patients in hospital care can be understood as a phenomenon experienced when being an involved co-creator and seen as an important person in a trustful context. In this study, as well as in previous research it is obvious that participation in hospital care concerns more than being involved in decision-making and receiving information.