bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CARACTERIZACIÓN AGRONÓMICA DE PAMPA ORÉGANO Lippia alba (Mill)
Authors: PEZO-PÉREZ Nilda Leonor , GONZALES-CORAL Agustín
Published: May 2017

Se reporta los resultados de la evaluación de enraizamiento y producción de materia verde y seca de Lippia alba, realizada en el Jardín Botánico de Plantas Medicinales de la Estación Biológica Allpahuayo, Centro Regional de Investigaciones Loreto, del Instituto de Investigaciones de la Amazonía Peruana (CRI-IIAP-Loreto). Se utilizó estacas de Lippia alba, empleando cuatro tratamientos (humus de lombriz, bagazo de caña en descomposición, materia orgánica del bosque y testigo), con Diseño Bloque al Azar con cuatro repeticiones. El análisis de variancia de las evaluaciones mostró la existencia de diferencias estadísticas significativas entre tratamientos a un nivel de 0,05% confirmadas por la prueba de Duncan, donde los promedios se agrupan en cuatro grupos. Complementariamente, se reporta la evaluación de ocho descriptores para cada uno de los tratamientos.
CONTAMINACIÓN URBANA DE LOS CUERPOS DE AGUA EN LA AMAZONIA PERUANA
Authors: GÓMEZ-GARCIA María Rosario
Published: May 2017

El estudio sobre la contaminación ambiental en los cuerpos de agua de la Amazonía Peruana recoge las evaluaciones de la calidad de las aguas en base a los aspectos físicos, químicos y microbiológicos. La investigación ha abarcado los cuerpos de agua que circundan las ciudades de Tarapoto, Pucallpa e Iquitos. Las mediciones fueron hechas a lo largo del año 1994, en época de creciente (mayo y junio) y de vaciante (setiembre) en Iquitos, en vaciante (agosto) en Pucallpa y en la época de media creciente (noviembre) en Tarapoto. El monitoreo físico-químico indica la existencia de contaminación por hidrocarburos en varios de los puntos muestreados, en menor proporción existe también contaminación por plomo, arsénico, cromo y fenoles sólo en algunos puntos de estos cuerpos de agua. El monitoreo microbiológico indica una alta contaminación por coliformes totales y fecales en la casi totalidad de los cuerpos de agua muestreados en las tres ciudades.
MEJORAMIENTO DE LOMBRICES NATIVAS POR CRUZAMIENTO CON EISENIA FOETIDA
Authors: SALES-DÁVILA Francisco
Published: May 2017

El presente trabajo se efectuó en el marco del Proyecto Sistema Integral de Producción Agraria que está realizando el Centro Regional de Investigación del IIAP en Ucayali (CRI-IIAP-Ucayali), ubicado en la carretera Federico Basadre km 12 400 Pucallpa, durante el periodo de abril a setiembre de 1995. Los objetivos del estudio consistieron en tratar de incrementar el tamaño de lombrices mediante el cruzamiento sexual para incrementar el peso y la producción de humus. La evaluación para el cumplimiento de los objetivos se programó en seis fases: cuarentena, siembra de lombrices, incubación, crecimiento, reproducción de híbridos (F1) y prueba final con la progenie (F2). El estudio se desarrolló hasta la segunda fase, concluyéndose que no se logró el cruzamiento en el tratamiento T3 (lombriz Eisenia foetida por lombriz nativa). Sin embargo, en los tratamientos T2 (Eisenia foetida por lombriz Eisenia foetída) y el tratamiento T1(nativa por nativa) se logró la cópula, postura de cápsula, eclosión y crecimiento (pequeños y juveniles), en lombrices del mismo género y especie.
Currículo e gênero: produção e naturalização das diferenças na escola
Authors: Alves Julia Mayra Duarte , Pizzi Laura Cristina Vieira
Published: May 2017

Este artigo apresenta uma pesquisa no qual se analisou a produção de subjetividades em uma escola de ensino fundamental em um bairro de Maceió/AL. A pesquisa problematizou a demarcação de gênero constituída a partir de duas atividades econômicas e culturais presentes no lugar, a produção da renda filé e a pesca. A partir dos enunciados que circulam na escola sobre essas atividades, com base nas ferramentas teóricas fornecidas por Foucault, a pesquisa analisou os discursos produtores de subjetividades que estãooperando predominantemente na escola com base nessa divisão sexual do trabalho. As estratégias metodológicas utilizadas foram observações, entrevistas e grupos de discussão com estudantes. Observamos que os modos de ser dos sujeitos são resultados de técnicas de governo das relações de gênero que objetivam determinar as possibilidades de ser e viver, estabelecendo fronteiras fortemente demarcadas entre o que é feminino e o que é masculino.Palavras-chave: Currículo; Gênero; Subjetividade; Ensino fundamental.Curriculum and gender: production and naturalization of differences in schoolAbstractThis article presents a research intended to analyze the production of subjectivities in an elementary school in a neighburhood area of Maceió/AL. It also aimed at a discussion about the demarcation of gender formed by two economic and cultural activities taking place there, the production of lace of file and fishing. From the statements circulating in school about these activities, based on theoretical tools provided by Foucault, the research examined the discourses producing subjectivities in terms of gender, which goes on predominantly in school as to the sexual division of labor in the community. The methodological strategies used were observations, interviews and discussion groups with students. We noticed that the children’s waysof being are the result of techniques of ruling gender relations in order to determine the possibilities of being and living, establishing borders sharply demarcated between what is feminine and what is masculine.Keywords: Curriculum; Gender, Subjectivitie, Elementary School.
Consensus statement on diagnosis, treatment and follow-up of cow's milk protein allergy among infants and children in Turkey
Authors: Kansu Aydan , Yüce Aysel , Dalgıç Buket , Şekerel Bülent Enis , Çullu-Çokuğraş Fügen , Çokuğraş Haluk
Published: May 2017

The present paper aims to provide experts' consensus on diagnosis and management of cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA) among infants and children in Turkey, based on review of available evidence-based guidelines, publications and experts' clinical experience. The experts agreed that CMPA diagnosis should be based on symptomatic evaluation and diagnostic elimination diet as followed by implementation of an open challenge test after disappearance of symptoms and confirmation of CMPA diagnosis in re-appearance of symptoms. For breastfed infants, differential diagnosis involves withdrawal of cow's milk-containing products from the mother's diet, while calcium supplements and appropriate dietary advice are given to mothers to prevent nutritional deficiency. For infants not breastfed exclusively, cow's milk-based formula and any complementary food containing cow's milk protein (CMP) should be avoided. The first line treatment should be extensively hydrolyzed formula (eHF) with use of amino acid-based formula (AAF) in severe cases such as anaphylaxis, enteropathy, eosinophilic esophagitis and food protein induced enterocolitis along with cases of multiple system involvement, multiple food allergies and intolerance to eHF. Introduction of supplementary foods should not be delayed in CMPA, while should be made one by one in small amounts and only after the infant is at least 17 weeks of age. Infants who are at-risk can be identified by family history of atopic disease. Exclusive breastfeeding for 4-6 months (17-27 weeks) is recommended as the best method of infant allergy prevention. There is no evidence that modifying the mother's diet during pregnancy and/or breast-feeding and delaying solid or even potentially allergic foods beyond 4-6 months in infants may be protective against allergy among at-risk infants. When exclusive breastfeeding is not possible, at-risk infants should get a partially or extensively hydrolyzed formula (pHF or eHF) to prevent allergy until risk evaluation by a health professional. In conclusion, the present consensus statement provides recommendations regarding diagnosis, prevention and management of CMPA in infants and children in Turkey, and thus expected to guide physicians to optimize their approach to CMPA and decrease burden of the disease on infants and their caregivers.
Associations of lean and fat mass measures with whole body bone mineral content and bone mineral density in female adolescent weightlifters and swimmers
Authors: Koşar Şükran Nazan
Published: May 2017

Body composition and sport participation have been associated with bone mass. The purpose of this study was to determine the associations of lean and fat mass measures with whole body bone mineral content (BMC) and bone mineral density (BMD) in female adolescent weightlifters, swimmers and non-athletic counterparts. This study included a total of 25 female adolescents (mean age: 15.3±1.1 years). Body composition and bone mass were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. In most of the studied variables weight lifters had higher values compared to swimmers and non-athletes (p < 0.05). No significant difference was observed between swimmers and non-athletes (p > 0.05). Lean and fat mass measures were positively associated with BMC and BMD for the total participants (p < 0.05) while the associations differed when the study groups were analysed separately. In conclusion, both lean and fat mass measures were strongly related to BMC and BMD in female adolescents while these associations differed in swimmers, weightlifters and non-athletes.
Nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma, a rare pediatric tumor: Case report
Authors: Ünal Adnan , Kum Rauf Oğuzhan , Avcı Yonca , Ünal Devrim Tuba
Published: May 2017

Nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma has characteristic clinicopathological features and it is accepted as the upper airway analogue of mesenchymal hamartoma of the chest wall. It is a rare lesion and only 31 cases have been reported in the English literature until 2014. In this article, a 13-year-old nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma case is presented, which is the first nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma case from Turkey. Although, nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma has been accepted as a benign lesion, the possibility of malignant transformation should be kept in mind, and detailed histologic examination should be performed particularly in adult nasal chondromesenchymal hamartoma cases.
Pediatric bladder/prostate rhabdomyosarcoma: Eight cases from a single center
Authors: Emir Suna , Özdemir Sonay İncesoy , Demir Hacı Ahmet , Özyörük Derya , Karakuş Esra , Tiryaki Tuğrul , Çetindağ Faik
Published: May 2017

In this study, clinical characteristics, treatment modalities and outcome of patients diagnosed with bladder/prostate rhabdomyosarcoma (BP RMS) were evaluated retrospectively. Files of 8 children diagnosed with BP RMS and treated between 2004-2014 were reviewed for clinical characteristics, treatment modalities and outcome. Seven males and one female were diagnosed with BP RMS between 2004-2014. Median age was 33.5 months (range, 2 to 176 months). At presentation the main clinical symptoms were hematuria in 5 patients, and constipation, oliguria and prolonged jaundice in 1 patient each. All patients were non-metastatic and only one had an embryonal histology. Primary resection before chemotherapy was performed on only one patient. Six patients were treated initially with VAC chemotherapy for 12 weeks, two patients were treated PIAV (ifosfamide, cisplatin, doxorubicin, vincristine). Local relapse or progressive disease occurred in 5 of 8 patients, and two of these patients underwent primary or secondary tumor resection without radiotherapy. Three patients developed a local relapse after combination of radiochemotherapy and tumor resection. Radical surgical treatment was performed in 3 patients with local relapse. Only one patient underwent partial cystectomy. Six of 8 patients were alive and under follow-up without disease at a median survival of 53 months (range, 13 to 78 months). BP RMS requires a multidisciplinary treatment approach. There is a general consensus that chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment in BP RMS, but the method to be used for local control is controversial, and may vary from case to case in this heterogeneous disease.
Nail changes secondary to hand-foot-mouth disease
Authors: Akpolat Nebahat Demet , Karaca Nezih
Published: May 2017

Hand-foot-mouth disease (HFMD) is a viral disease that is characterized by palmoplantar vesicular eruption and erosive stomatitis. Beau's line and onychomadesis can be observed as late findings following HFMD due to arrest in nail matrix. We aimed to draw attention to HMFD and nail changes, which have been seen more frequently. Demographic characteristics and nail findings of 15 children, who were diagnosed with HFMD in the dermatology clinic of Beykoz State Hospital between August 2015-October 2015 were evaluated. Mean age of the patients was 5.13 years (1-13 years), 66.6% were boys (n=10), and 33.4% were girls (n=5); 53.3% were diagnosed in August (n=8). Dermatologic examinations revealed palmar and plantar vesicular eruptions in all cases, additionally one patient had vesicular eruptions also on hip, legs, and arms. Erosive stomatitis was present in oral mucosa of 60% of patients (n=9). Nail findings were determined after a mean of 4.06 weeks following HFMD. Onychomadesis and Beau's line were present in 66.6% (n=10) and 33.4% of the patients, respectively. Hand-foot-mouth disease is a viral infection of childhood, which may be seen as isolated cases or epidemics, and characterized with palmoplantar vesicular eruption and erosive stomatitis. Being aware that Beau's line and onychomadesis can be seen as late findings of HFMD and should relieve without treatment, will prevent unnecessary diagnostic and invasive interventions.
Familial Mediterranean fever associated with optic neuritis, successfully treated with anti-interleukin 1 agents
Authors: Başaran Özge , Kavuncu Sevim , Güven Alev , Uncu Nermin , Acar-Çelikel Banu , Çakar Nilgün
Published: May 2017

Familial Mediterranean fever (FMF) is an inherited periodic auto-inflammatory disease characterized by recurrent attacks of fever, synovitis and serositis. Ophthalmological manifestations of FMF are extremely rare. Here we described a boy who has been followed-up for FMF and attended with a loss of vision during the course of the disease. He was diagnosed with optic neuritis. As the other etiologies were excluded his optic neuritis was attributed to the underlying auto inflammatory process. After pulse steroid therapy, his symptoms improved and a complete remission occurred. Afterwards he had two more optic neuritis attacks. Thereafter anti-interleukin 1 (IL-1) drugs were introduced and he did not develop further attacks of both optic neuritis and FMF. This case presentation highlights the possible association between FMF and optic nerve involvement.
Pediatric langerhans cell histiocytosis: single center experience over a 17-year period
Authors: İnce Dilek , Kundak Selcen , Yaman Yöntem , Kamer Serra , Oymak Yeşim , Ortaç Ragıp , Erbay Ayşe , Özek Gülcihan , Demirağ Bengü , Vergin Canan
Published: May 2017

This study aimed to analyze children with the diagnosis of Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) who were diagnosed and treated between 1998-2015. Medical records were evaluated retrospectively for clinical and laboratory features, treatment details, and outcome. There were 20 patients, the median age of diagnosis was 37 months, M/F ratio: 1.5. Nine had single system (SS), 11 had multisystem (MS) LCH. Spontaneous regression occurred in three infants with skin limited LCH. Eight patients had risk organ involvement in MS-LCH group. The curettage alone was performed in only one case. Patients received LCH-II/ LCH-III based chemotherapy schema. Radiotherapy was performed to vertebral disease and residual craniofacial bone disease in four cases. The regression and relapse rates were 100% and 33% for SS-LCH. The regression and relapse rates were 73%, and 18% for MS-LCH. Two infants with MS-LCH died despite chemotherapy. Pulmonary and liver involvements affected outcome adversely in MS-LCH. Multidisciplinary treatment approaches are needed.
Rasio Tanaman Induk Jantan dan Betina Serta Penambahan Pupuk Boron pada Tanaman Jantan Terhadap Produksi dan Mutu Benih Jagung Manis (Zea mays “Saccharata” STURT.)
Authors: Yuyun Indah , Syaban Rahmat Ali
Published: May 2017

Salah satu alasan rendahnya produksi jagung manis di Indonesia adalah kurangnya ketersediaan bibit yang berkualitas dan kurang akuratnya teknis budidaya. Salah satu upaya yang dapat digunakan untuk meningkatkan produksi jagung manis adalah dengan menetapkan rasio tanaman induk jantan dan betina dan penambahan boron pupuk pada tanaman jantan. Penelitian ini dilakukan di Desa Kotes, Gandosari, Blitar dengan ketinggian di atas 60 m dpl. Dilaksanakan dengan menggunakan rancangan kelompok petak terpisah (RBD) dengan 3 faktor dan 2 ulangan. Faktor pertama adalah rasio tanaman yang terdiri dari 1: 4, 1: 5 dan 1: 6. Faktor kedua adalah penambahan pupuk boron yang terdiri dari 0 kg / ha (kontrol) dan 15 kg / ha. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perlakuan rasio tanaman induk jantan dan betina berpengaruh secara nyata pada parameter jumlah biji setiap tongkol, berat 100 biji, perkecambahan dan kecepatan perkecambahan. Rasio tanaman induk dari 1: 5 (R2) menunjukkan hasil terbaik dengan menghasilkan 219,50 biji setiap tongkol dan viabilitas benih 83,67%, dan 32,75% untuk kecepatan perkecambahan biji. Adapun perlakuan pemupukan boron sangat berbeda nyata pada berat serbuk sari dan viabilitas serbuk sari. Pupuk Boron dengan dosis 15 kg / ha (B2) menunjukkan hasil terbaik pada produksi serbuk sari dan viabilitas serbuk sari masing-masing 1,91 gram / tanaman dan 7,19%. Ada interaksi yang berbeda nyata antara rasio tanaman induk dan pupuk boron pada jumlah biji di setiap tongkol. Kombinasi rasio tanaman induk 1:5 dan pemupukan boron menunjukkan hasil terbaik pada jumlah rata-rata benih dengan 232,30 biji pada setiap tongkol.
Agency and Agendas: Revisiting the Roles of the Researcher and the Researched in Ethnographic Fieldwork
Authors: Mosher Rhiannon , Long Jennifer , Le Elisabeth , Harding Lauren
Published: May 2017

Drawing on the authors' research experiences, and using Anna Tsing's (2005) concept of “friction,” this article considers how ethnographic research is an essentially collaborative project. Ethnographic knowledge is generated by researchers and their (intended) participants – our agencies and agendas – come together to co-create a field of research. We argue that how these contextually embedded agendas align, differ, and/or diverge deeply shapes ethnographic knowledge. We also consider the effects of ethnographic legacies: of past ethnographers on their contemporaries; of the ideal, “slow” ethnographic approach for researchers working outside of academia; and of the future afterlives of our own work.
Introduction : Viabilité de la langue et le Nord circumpolaire
Authors: Ferguson Jenanne , Siragusa Laura
Published: May 2017

Cette introduction vise à situer les contributions de ce volume dans le champ de la durabilité linguistique, de la revitalisation et de la préservation des langues. Il s'agira de mettre en évidence les aspects uniques des contextes linguistiques du nord circumpolaire, ainsi que de présenter les préoccupations théoriques et pratiques, jusqu'à présent peu décrites, que partagent les locuteurs des langues autochtones et minoritaires de cette vaste région et d'écologies linguistiques similaires de par le monde.
Seeing Is Believing: Miracles, Providence, and Reality in the Talmuds
Authors: Rosen-Zvi Ishay
Published: May 2017

The last chapter of tractate Berakhot (“Benedictions”) is exceptional. It does not discuss the set daily liturgy, as does the rest of the tractate, but rather presents benedictions to be said following encounters with various phenomena, both seen and heard. These benedictions carry none of the permanence of the fixed liturgy, but are reflexive to the world around them. This makes the closing chapter a rare depository of information about the rabbinic world view. In this list of phenomena and their appropriate liturgical responses, the discerning reader can detect the manner in which the rabbis theologically conceptualize the world around them. This article focuses on the benediction that opens the chapter—for miracles—and the discussions about it in the two Talmuds. A close reading of these discussions reveals some of the ways in which rabbis in Roman Palestine and Sassanian Babylonia explained miracles and account for their (non)existence in their own reality.
Que reste-t-il de nos amours?
Authors: Martínez Francisco
Published: May 2017

Is the 1989–1991 frame of understanding still relevant? Did history already throw away the empty bottles of the 1991 celebrations? Et que reste-t-il de nos amours? With this series of articles and a comment, we set out to explore the ways in which European societies, and Europe itself, differ from what had been hoped and designed in the years 1989–1991. The contributions included put the emphasis on the different horizons of expectation and realms of experience that have their roots in 1989–1991, exploring whether this period continues to define individuals, societies and historical representations of Eastern Europe and beyond. We thus reflect on the relevance of the study of past expectations in order to understand what has happened during the last decades around us, promising new directions of research regard- ing social transformation, political rhetoric, collective memory and how historical and personal narratives match or contradict.
Those Who Decide about the Fate of the Foreigner
Authors: Kirss Tiina Ann
Published: May 2017

The First Tartu Conference on Russian and East European Studies panel entitled ‘Que reste-t-il de nos amours? The Expectations of 1989–1991 revisited’ posed daunting questions of the relevance of the 1989–1991 frame of understanding in Europe, pitching this question in the lyric terms of Charles Trenet’s love song. This starting point called up images of walls torn down, ‘velvet’ revolutions and nations peacefully sung into existence.
Comparison of muscle activity and trunk compensation during modified push-up plus exercises in individuals with scapular winging
Authors: Baek Yun-Jeong , Jung Ye-Ji , Son Jae-Ik , Lim One-Bin , Yi Chung-Hwi
Published: May 2017

BACKGROUND:

Push-up plus exercise is applied to scapular winging to selectively activate serratus anterior (SA).

OBJECTIVES:

To compare muscle activity, muscle activity ratios, and the degrees of rotation of the thoracic and lumbar spine during a modified push-up plus exercise.

METHODS:

In total, 20 subjects with scapular winging participated. Subjects performed the knee push-up plus with ipsilateral leg extension (KPP-ILE) and the standard push-up plus with ipsilateral leg extension (SPP-ILE) exercises. During the SPP-ILE and KPP-ILE, SA, pectoralis major (PM), ipsilateral external oblique (ipsiEO), and contralateral external oblique (contEO) muscle activities, the SA/PM and ipsiEO/contEO ratios were assessed and the degree of rotation of the thoracic and lumbar spine were assessed.

RESULTS:

Muscle activities of SA, PM, ipsiEO, contEO, and SA/PM ratio were significantly higher during SPP-ILE than KPP-ILE. The ipsiEO/contEO ratio decreased more significantly during SPP-ILE versus KPP-ILE. Thoracic and lumbar rotation values were significantly lower in SPP-ILE.

CONCLUSIONS:

The SPP-ILE may be a useful exercise for subjects with scapular winging because of the increased SA/PM ratio, the diminished compensatory rotation through increased scapular stabilization muscle activity and co-contraction of the abdominal trunk-stabilizing muscles.
Intraperitoneal Onlay Mesh in Ventral Hernia Repair  Experience in A Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Ratan Md Ezharul Haque , Alam Hasina
Published: May 2017

Background: Ventral hernias are common problem in surgical practice. Repair of hernia by a prosthetic mesh is a well recognized procedure. But whether the procedure is to be done by open or laparoscopic technique is still a topic of discussion. Laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) hernioplasty is a newer technique in managing ventral hernia in our country. We are evaluating the usefulness of this procedure as routine operation for ventral hernias.Methods: All patients attending at Bangladesh Institute of Research & Rehabilitation of Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic disorders (BIRDEM) outpatient department (OPD) with ventral hernia were approached and counseled for laparoscopic IPOM, but only those who agreed were included in this study. Fifty consecutive patients underwent IPOM by a single surgeon. Preoperative evaluation was done rationally and surgery performed by standard laparoscopic method. Age, sex, diabetes status and additional procedures done were evaluated. Post- operative follow up period was from 3 months to 75 months and any complication or recurrence were noted.Results: We are reporting 50 cases of laparoscopic IPOM, over a time period of 78 months (April 2010- September 2016). Eleven cases were male, 39 female (M: F=1:3.5). 35 (70%) cases were diabetic, 15 (30%) were non-diabetic. Mean age of the patients were 47.7yrs (male 47.7+9.5 yrs, female 47.7- 2.6 yrs, diabetic patients 47.7+ 2.5yrs, non-diabetic patients 47.7-5.9yrs). Indication for IPOM was paraumbilical hernia 29 cases (58%), incisional hernia 14 cases(28%), multiple incisional hernia 2 cases ( 2 large defect in one case, 5 defects of varying size in another patient), umbilical port hernia 2 cases, paraumbilical along with incisional hernia 1 case, epigastric hernia 1 case, lumber hernia 1 case. In 48 cases (96%) polypropylene mesh and only in 2 cases (4%) dual mesh were used. In addition to IPOM procedure, in same sitting laparoscopic cholecystectomy was done in 8 cases, Dilatation & Curettage in 1 case and adhesiolysis in 7 cases. None of the case required conversion to open, neither was there any intra-operative complication. In one case there was recurrence . In another case there was false recurrence due to development of ascites. Four patients developed seroma which were managed conservatively.Conclusion: Laparoscopic intraperitoneal onlay mesh (IPOM) hernioplasty has proved to be an effective surgical procedure for ventral hernia repair. It provides much benefits with low complications and conversion in experienced hands.Birdem Med J 2017; 7(2): 106-109
Medical Quiz: Images Vol.7(2)
Authors: Samad Tabassum , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Saha Shudhanshu Kumar , Ul Haque Wasim Md Mohosin
Published: May 2017

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2017; 7(2): 172
Influence of salt marsh ecosystem on the concentration and emission of CO2 from the Wadden sea coast soil of northern Germany
Authors: Khan Md Harunor Rashid
Published: May 2017

A field study was conducted to evaluate the possible factors controlling the fluxes of carbon dioxide along a toposequence of daily to seasonally flooded coastal salt marsh soils. The soil at the top end of the salt marsh (with a height of 1.8 m above sea level (a.s.l.) and a dense vegetation cover) was salic silty to clayic (Typic Sulfaquent), while the soil at the bottom end (with some salt bushes and a 1.4 m a.s.l.) was sandy to silty (Haplic Sulfaquent). The mean (depth: 0 - 100 cm) values of pH were around 7, and of redox potentials (Eh) in the Typic Sulfaquent ranged from -162 to + 104 mV during all the seasons. The average net-emission of CO2 (-14.0 g m-2 a-1) above the vegetation cover was negative for the Haplic Sulfaquent but highly positive for Typic Sulfaquent round the year (857 g m-2 a-1). The average maximum concentrations of CO2 were detected within the surface soils 20 to 40 cm in both the profiles. In the surface soils of 0 to 20 cm the concentrations of CO2 measured were relatively low though the values were about 5 to 20 times higher than that of the atmospheric (0.35 g/v) concentration. For the average of two Haplic Sulfaquents, the soil temperatures were almost 2°C higher than that of the Typic Sulfaquent and it was also 2.5°C higher than the mean annual temperature (9.5°C) of the soils. The current results show that the CO2 fluxes seasonally varied significantly and for certain periods of the year the coastal salt marsh soils can act either as a sink or source for atmospheric CO2 depending on the physical and chemical properties of the soils.Bangladesh J. Sci. Res. 29(2): 101-109, December-2016
‘Quite destitute and … very desirous of going to North America’: The Roots and Repercussions of Emigration from Sutherland and Caithness
Authors: Harper Marjory
Published: May 2017

This paper explores the roots and repercussions of emigration from the northern Highlands since the 1770s, through the lens of personal testimony, press accounts, estate papers, and recruitment agents' reports, along with some observations from novels and poetry. It studies the particular exodus from Scotland's two most northerly mainland counties – Sutherland and Caithness – within the wider context of Scottish emigration as a whole, and considers how settlement in Canada, the dominant destination, compares with the experiences of Highland emigrants elsewhere. The investigation has three sections, each of which follows a chronological path. It begins with the practical mechanisms through which emigration was promoted and implemented, and the attitudes that underpinned recruitment and sponsorship. The second section reflects on the attitudes of those who opposed emigration, while the third section dips into the emigrants' own testimony to analyse their motives and experiences. Overarching questions are the extent to which there were unique elements in emigration from the far north; whether the participants were passive victims in a process that was determined by others, or had agency, ambition and agendas of their own; and whether the narrative is characterised by continuity or change during the two centuries under scrutiny.
A Fast and Cost-Effective Detection of Melamine by Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Using a Novel Hydrogen Bonding-Assisted Supramolecular Matrix and Gold-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: Neng Jing , Tan Jiayuan , Jia Kan , Sun Peilong
Published: May 2017

A fast and cost-effective melamine detection approach has been developed based on surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) using a novel hydrogen bonding-assisted supramolecular matrix. The detection utilizes Fe3O4/Au magnetic nanoparticles coated with 5-aminoorotic acid (AOA) as a SERS active substrate (Fe3O4/Au–AOA), and Rhodamine B (RhB) conjugated AOA as a Raman reporter (AOA–RhB). Upon mixing the reagents with melamine, a supramolecular complex [Fe3O4/Au–AOA•••melamine•••AOA–RhB] was formed due to the strong multiple hydrogen bonding interactions between AOA and melamine. The complex was separated and concentrated to a pellet by an external magnet and used as a supramolecular matrix for the melamine detection. Laser excitation of the complex pellet produced a strong SERS signal diagnostic for RhB. The logarithmic intensity of the characteristic RhB peaks was found to be proportional to the concentration of melamine with a limit of detection of 2.5 µg/mL and a detection linearity range of 2.5~15.0 µg/mL in milk. As Fe3O4 nanoparticles and AOA are thousands of times less expensive than the monoclonal antibody used in a traditional sandwich immunoassay, the current assay drastically cut down the cost of melamine detection. The current approach affords promise as a biosensor platform that cuts down sample pre-treatment steps and measurement expense.
Natural History of NAFLD Diagnosed in Childhood: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Cioffi Catherine , Welsh Jean , Cleeton Rebecca , Caltharp Shelley , Romero Rene , Wulkan Mark , Konomi Juna , Frediani Jennifer , Vos Miriam
Published: May 2017

Little is known regarding the subsequent course of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) diagnosed in childhood. The objectives of this single-center study were to gather data on long-term health outcomes and to assess the feasibility of contacting former pediatric patients. In a large pediatric medical center, electronic records were searched to initially identify 162 former patients who had a liver biopsy between 2000 and 2010. Of these, 44 subjects met the criteria for age at follow-up (≥18 year) and biopsy-proven NAFLD, and were recruited via postal and electronic mail. Participants were invited to complete a brief telephone survey on current health status. Supplemental data was also obtained from pediatric medical charts of all subjects. At NAFLD diagnosis, 18% of subjects had diabetes, 91% were obese, 61% had NASH, and 56% had fibrosis on biopsy. At follow-up, 10 subjects (23%) responded to the survey. Based on the survey and chart review, after a mean follow-up of 4.5 years, 5 additional subjects developed diabetes for a period prevalence of 30%, and most subjects (78%) remained obese at last follow-up. Additional prospective studies are needed to fully describe the longitudinal risks associated with pediatric NAFLD, and will require multi-dimensional strategies to successfully recruit former patients.
An Investigation of the Restitution Coefficient Impact on Simulating Sand-Char Mixing in a Bubbling Fluidized Bed
Authors: Zhao Xinjun , Eri Qitai , Wang Qiang
Published: May 2017

In the present work, the effect of the restitution coefficient on the numerical results for a binary mixture system of sand particles and char particles in a bubbling fluidized bed with a huge difference between the particles in terms of density and volume fraction has been studied based on two-fluid model along with the kinetic theory of granular flow. Results show that the effect of restitution coefficient on the flow characteristics varies in different regions of the bed, which is more evident for the top region of the bed. The restitution coefficient can be categorized into two classes. The restitution coefficients of 0.7 and 0.8 can be included into one class, whereas the restitution coefficient of 0.9 and 0.95 can be included into another class. Moreover, four vortices can be found in the time-averaged flow pattern distribution, which is very different from the result obtained for the binary system with the similar values between particles in density and volume fraction.
Development of a Leader-End Reclosing Algorithm Considering Turbine-Generator Shaft Torque
Authors: Cho Gyu-Jung , Park Ji-Kyung , Sohn Seung-Hyun , Chung Se-Jin , Gwon Gi-Hyeon , Oh Yun-Sik , Kim Chul-Hwan
Published: May 2017

High-speed auto-reclosing is used in power system protection schemes to ensure the stability and reliability of the transmission system; leader-follower auto-reclosing is one scheme type that is widely used. However, when a leader-follower reclosing scheme responds to a permanent fault that affects a transmission line in the proximity of a generation plant, the reclosing directly impacts the turbine-generator shaft; furthermore, the nature of this impact is dependent upon the selection of the leader reclosing terminal. We therefore analyzed the transient torque of the turbine-generator shaft according to the selection of the leader-follower reclosing end between both ends of the transmission line. We used this analysis to propose an adaptive leader-end reclosing algorithm that removes the stress potential of the transient torque to prevent it from damaging the turbine-generator shaft. We conducted a simulation in actual Korean power systems based on the ElectroMagnetic Transients Program (EMTP) and the Dynamic Link Library (DLL) function in EMTP-RV (Restructured Version) to realize the proposed algorithm.
An Unheard, Inhuman Music: Narrative Voice and the Question of the Animal in Kafka’s “Josephine, the Singer or the Mouse Folk”
Authors: Driscoll Kári
Published: May 2017

In The Animal That Therefore I Am, Derrida wonders whether it would be possible to think of the discourse of the animal in musical terms, and if so, whether one could change the key, or the tone of the music, by inserting a “flat”—a “blue note” in other words. The task would be to render audible “an unheard language or music” that would be “somewhat inhuman” but a language nonetheless. This essay pursues this intriguing proposition by means of a reading Kafka’s “Josephine, the Singer or the Mouse Folk,” paying careful attention to the controversy regarding the status of Josephine’s vocalizations, which, moreover, is mirrored in the scientific discourse surrounding the ultrasonic songs of mice. What is at stake in rendering this inhuman music audible? And furthermore, how might we relate this debate to questions of narrative and above all to the concept of narrative “voice”? I explore these and related questions via a series of theoretical waypoints, including Paul Sheehan, Giorgio Agamben, Gilles Deleuze, Jacques Derrida, and Jean-Luc Nancy, with a view to establishing some of the critical parameters of an “animal narratology,” and of zoopoetics more generally.
Improving Plant Water Use Efficiency through Molecular Genetics
Authors: Ruggiero Alessandra , Punzo Paola , Landi Simone , Costa Antonello , Van Oosten Michael , Grillo Stefania
Published: May 2017

Improving crop performance under water-limiting conditions is essential for achieving environmentally sustainable food production. This requires significant progress in both the identification and characterization of key genetic and physiological processes involved in water uptake and loss. Plants regulate water uptake and loss through both developmental and environmental responses. These responses include: root morphology and architecture, cuticle development, stomatal development, and guard cell movements in response to the environment. Genes controlling root traits and stomatal development and guard cell movements strongly impact water use efficiency (WUE), and represent the best targets for molecular breeding programs. This article provides an overview of the complex networks of genes involved in water uptake and loss. These traits represent novel opportunities and strategies for genetic improvement of WUE and drought tolerance in crops.
Chemical Profile and Antioxidant, Anti-Inflammatory, Antimutagenic and Antimicrobial Activities of Geopropolis from the Stingless Bee Melipona orbignyi
Authors: Santos Helder , Campos Jaqueline , Santos Cintia , Balestieri José , Silva Denise , Carollo Carlos , De Picoli Souza Kely , Estevinho Leticia , Dos Santos Edson
Published: May 2017

Geopropolis is a resin mixed with mud, produced only by stingless bees. Despite being popularly known for its medicinal properties, few scientific studies have proven its biological activities. In this context, the objective of this study was to determine the chemical composition and antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and antimicrobial activities of the Melipona orbignyi geopropolis. The hydroalcoholic extract of geopropolis (HEGP) was prepared and its chemical composition determined by high performance liquid chromatography coupled to diode array detector and mass spectrometry (HPLC-DAD-MS). The antioxidant activity was determined by the capture of free radicals and inhibition of lipid peroxidation in human erythrocytes. The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated by the inhibition of the hyaluronidase enzyme and the antimutagenic action was investigated in Saccharomyces cerevisiae colonies. The antimicrobial activities were determined against bacteria and yeasts, isolated from reference strains and hospital origin. The chemical composition of HEGP included flavonoids, derivatives of glycosylated phenolic acids and terpenoids. HEGP showed high antioxidant activity, it inhibited the activity of the inflammatory enzyme hyaluronidase and reduced the mutagenic effects in S. cerevisiae. In relation to the antimicrobial activity, it promoted the death of all microorganisms evaluated. In conclusion, this study reveals for the first time the chemical composition of the HEGP of M. orbignyi and demonstrates its pharmacological properties.
Aged Lymphatic Vessels and Mast Cells in Perilymphatic Tissues
Authors: Pal Sarit , Meininger Cynthia , Gashev Anatoliy
Published: May 2017

This review provides a comprehensive summary of research on aging-associated alterations in lymphatic vessels and mast cells in perilymphatic tissues. Aging alters structure (by increasing the size of zones with low muscle cell investiture), ultrastructure (through loss of the glycocalyx), and proteome composition with a concomitant increase in permeability of aged lymphatic vessels. The contractile function of aged lymphatic vessels is depleted with the abolished role of nitric oxide and an increased role of lymphatic-born histamine in flow-dependent regulation of lymphatic phasic contractions and tone. In addition, aging induces oxidative stress in lymphatic vessels and facilitates the spread of pathogens from these vessels into perilymphatic tissues. Aging causes the basal activation of perilymphatic mast cells, which, in turn, restricts recruitment/activation of immune cells in perilymphatic tissues. This aging-associated basal activation of mast cells limits proper functioning of the mast cell/histamine/NF-κB axis that is essential for the regulation of lymphatic vessel transport and barrier functions as well as for both the interaction and trafficking of immune cells near and within lymphatic collecting vessels. Cumulatively, these changes play important roles in the pathogenesis of alterations in inflammation and immunity associated with aging.
Comparing the Nutritional Impact of Dietary Strategies to Reduce Discretionary Choice Intake in the Australian Adult Population: A Simulation Modelling Study
Authors: Grieger Jessica , Johnson Brittany , Wycherley Thomas , Golley Rebecca
Published: May 2017

Dietary strategies to reduce discretionary choice intake are commonly utilized in practice, but evidence on their relative efficacy is lacking. The aim was to compare the potential impact on nutritional intake of three strategies to reducing discretionary choices intake in the Australian adult (19–90 years) population. Dietary simulation modelling using data from the National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey 2011–2012 was conducted (n = 9341; one 24 h dietary recall). Strategies modelled were: moderation (reduce discretionary choices by 50%, with 0%, 25% or 75% energy compensation); substitution (replace 50% of discretionary choices with core choices); reformulation (replace 50% SFA with unsaturated fats, reduce added sugars by 25%, and reduce sodium by 20%). Compared to the base case (observed) intake, modelled intakes in the moderation scenario showed: −17.3% lower energy (sensitivity analyses, 25% energy compensation −14.2%; 75% energy compensation −8.0%), −20.9% lower SFA (−17.4%; −10.5%), −43.3% lower added sugars (−41.1%; −36.7%) and 17.7% lower sodium (−14.3%; −7.5%). Substitution with a range of core items, or with fruits, vegetables and core beverages only, resulted in similar changes in energy intake (−13.5% and −15.4%), SFA (−17.7% and −20.1%), added sugars (−42.6% and −43%) and sodium (−13.7% and −16.5%), respectively. Reformulating discretionary choices had minimal impact on reducing energy intake but reduced SFA (−10.3% to −30.9%), added sugars (−9.3% to −52.9%), and alcohol (−25.0% to −49.9%) and sodium (−3.3% to −13.2%). The substitution and reformulation scenarios minimized negative changes in fiber, protein and micronutrient intakes. While each strategy has strengths and limitations, substitution of discretionary choices with core foods and beverages may optimize the nutritional impact.
Development of a Healthy Dietary Habits Index for New Zealand Adults
Authors: Wong Jyh , Haszard Jillian , Howe Anna , Parnell Winsome , Skidmore Paula
Published: May 2017

Healthful dietary habits are individually associated with better nutrient intake and positive health outcomes; however, this information is rarely examined together to validate an indicator of diet quality. This study developed a 15-item Healthy Dietary Habits Index (HDHI) based on self-reported dietary habits information collected in the 2008/09 New Zealand Adult Nutrition Survey. The validity of HDHI as a diet quality index was examined in relation to sociodemographic factors, 24-diet recall derived nutrient intakes, and nutritional biomarkers in a representative sample of adults aged 19 years and above. Linear regression models were employed to determine associations between HDHI quintiles and energy-adjusted nutrient data and nutritional biomarkers. Significantly higher HDHI scores were found among women, older age groups, Non-Māori or Pacific ethnic groups, and less socioeconomically-deprived groups (all p < 0.001). Increasing quintiles of HDHI were associated with higher intakes of dietary fibre and seven micronutrients including calcium, iron, and vitamin C, and lower intakes of energy, macronutrients, sodium, zinc, vitamins B6 and B12. Associations in the expected directions were also found for urinary sodium, whole blood folate, serum and red blood cell folate, and plasma selenium (all p < 0.001). The present findings suggest that the HDHI is a valid measure of diet quality as it is capable of discerning quality of diets of subgroups and ranking nutrient intakes among NZ adults.
The Disappearing Human: Gnostic Dreams in a Transhumanist World
Authors: Pugh Jeffrey
Published: May 2017

Transhumanism is dedicated to freeing humankind from the limitations of biological life, creating new bodies that will carry us into the future. In seeking freedom from the constraints of nature, it resembles ancient Gnosticism, but complicates the question of what the human being is. In contrast to the perspective that we are our brains, I argue that human consciousness and subjectivity originate from complex interactions between the body and the surrounding environment. These qualities emerge from a distinct set of structural couplings embodied within multiple organ systems and the multiplicity of connections within the brain. These connections take on different forms, including structural, chemical, and electrical manifestations within the totality of the human body. This embodiment suggests that human consciousness, and the intricate levels of experience that accompany it, cannot be replicated in non-organic forms such as computers or synaptic implants without a significant loss to human identity. The Gnostic desire to escape our embodiment found in transhumanism carries the danger of dissolving the human being.
Development and Validation of a Scale for Christian Character Assessment of University Students
Authors: Kim Sungwon
Published: May 2017

After the Character Education Act was enacted, providing character classes became a prerequisite in some Korean colleges starting in spring 2017. Keeping in step with these changes, experts researching character education cited the need for the development of character scales. The purpose of the present study is to explore the validity and reliability of the Christian character scale for university students. The participants were 994 students attending a Christian university in Seoul. The original 75 questions were developed from 13 factors, within three domains, from the three Biblical references and Christian universities’ virtuous character traits. These questions were reduced to 39, three per each factor, through the examination of content validity by a validation panel. Twenty-nine questions were finalized through exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis within five factors: relationships with others I—loving and caring, relationship with God, relationships with others II—loving and peacemaking, personal responsibility, and social responsibility.