bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inadequate fluid intake can increase the risk of constipation among pregnant women
Authors: Fitriana Dina , Prasetyo Budi , Purwaka Bangun Trapsila
Published: April 2018

Objectives: To analyze the association between the fiber and fluid consumption with constipation in pregnancy.Materials and Methods: An analytic cross-sectional study conducted at Jagir Public Health Center Surabaya, with the samples of healthy pregnant women aged between 20-35 years old (n=99). Respondents were asked to record the amount of daily fluid intake, defecation frequency, and type of faeces, everyday for 7 days, also made a food recall during 24 hours. The recom-mendation of adequate fluid intake in first trimester was 2180 ml/day and 2300 ml/day for second and third trimester. The value of adequate fiber consumption was 25-30 g/day. Constipation diagnosed by the frequency of defecation <2x/week, or based on Bristol Stool Form Scale included as type 1, type 2, or type 3.Results: Pregnant women whose adequate fluid intake was 40,4% and those with adequate fiber intake was 4.1%. The percentage of constipation among them was 29.5%. There was significant association between fluid intake and constipation (p: 0,000; RR:1,85). There was no significant association between fiber intake and constipation p:0,317 (p<0.05). There was also no significant association between parity, gestational age, and level of education with constipation (p<0.05).Conclusion: Inadequate maternal fluid intake can increase the risk of constipation by 1.85 folds, and the adequate fluid intake may prevent constipation during pregnancy.
Dominant factors affecting uterine prolapse in Dr. Moewardi Hospital, Surakarta, in 2013-2015
Authors: Anggraeni Asih , Wulansari Vitri , Darto Darto
Published: April 2018

Objectives: To determine the dominant factors that affected uterine prolapse at Dr. Moewardi General Hospital Surakarta.Materials and Methods: This study was conducted to 259 cases of uterine prolapse at Dr. Moewardi Hospital, Surakarta, in the periods of January - December in the years 2013-2015. This was a correlational quantitative analytic study using chi-square test and regression analysis.Results: Factors affecting uterine prolapse were parity (p=0.024), age (p=0.036) and occupation (p=0.039). Parity had the highest regression analysis result of 0.145 with probability of uterine prolapse in those with parity >2 in this study was 2.753 times higher than in those with parity ≤2.Conclusion: Factors that had been proved to have significant effect on uterine prolapse were age, occupation, and parity. Parity was the predominant factor in affecting uterine prolapse in Dr. Moewardi Hospital, Surakarta.
A Micromachined Coupled-Cantilever for Piezoelectric Energy Harvesters
Authors: Vyas Agin , Staaf L. G. H. , Rusu Cristina , Ebefors Thorbjörn , Liljeholm Jessica , Smith Anderson D. , Lundgren Per , Enoksson Peter
Published: April 2018

This paper presents a demonstration of the feasibility of fabricating micro-cantilever harvesters with extended stress distribution and enhanced bandwidth by exploiting an M-shaped two-degrees-of-freedom design. The measured mechanical response of the fabricated device displays the predicted dual resonance peak behavior with the fundamental peak at the intended frequency. This design has the features of high energy conversion efficiency in a miniaturized environment where the available vibrational energy varies in frequency. It makes such a design suitable for future large volume production of integrated self powered sensors nodes for the Internet-of-Things.
Bimetallic Nanoparticles: Enhanced Magnetic and Optical Properties for Emerging Biological Applications
Authors: Srinoi Pannaree , Chen Yi-Ting , Vittur Varadee , Marquez Maria D. , Lee T. Randall
Published: April 2018

Metal nanoparticles are extensively studied due to their unique chemical and physical properties, which differ from the properties of their respective bulk materials. Likewise, the properties of heterogeneous bimetallic structures are far more attractive than those of single-component nanoparticles. The incorporation of a second metal into the nanoparticle structure alters the surface plasmon resonance and magnetic properties of the bimetallic composite. This review focuses on the enhanced optical and magnetic properties offered by bimetallic nanoparticles and their corresponding impact on biological applications. We summarize the predominant structures of bimetallic nanoparticles, outline their synthesis methods, and highlight their use in biological applications, both diagnostic and therapeutic, which are dictated by their various optical and magnetic properties.
Molecular Sex Identification in Dioecious Hippophae rhamnoides L. via RAPD and SCAR Markers
Authors: Zhou Wu , Wang Yuwei , Zhang Gong , Luan Guangxiang , Chen Shasha , Meng Jing , Wang Honglun , Hu Na , Suo Yourui
Published: April 2018

The dioecious property of sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) prevents sex recognition via traditional observation at the juvenile stage, thus impeding breeding and economic cropping; RAPD and SCAR markers were used to identify the sexes. A total of 45 random decamer primers were used to screen genomic DNA pools of staminate and pistillate genotypes for genetic polymorphisms. One female sex-linked marker was identified. D15 (5′-CATCCGTGCT-3′) amplified a particular band of 885 bp, which showed polymorphism among staminate and pistillate genotype plants. The SCAR marker Hrcx-15 was obtained by sequencing the fragment. The alleles of 140 pistillate genotypes were examined but not of the 140 staminate genotypes discerned via taxonomy. Staminate and pistillate genotypes of sea buckthorn plants can be distinguished, using Hrcx-15 as a genetic marker for sex identification and for expediting cultivation for commercial applications.
Topological Horseshoe Analysis and FPGA Implementation of the Fractional-order Liu System
Authors: Dong Enzeng , Yuan Mingfeng , Tong Jigang , Du Shengzhi , Chen Zengqiang
Published: April 2018

This paper first discusses a fractional-order Liu system of order as low as 2.7 and shows its chaotic characteristics by carrying out numerical simulations such as Lyapunov exponents, bifurcation diagrams and phase portraits. Then, by using the topological horseshoe theory and computer-assisted proof, the existence of chaos in the system is verified theoretically. Finally, the fractional-order system is implemented on a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) and the results obtained show that the fractional-order Liu system is indeed chaotic.
Assessment of Irrigation Performance in Large River Basins Under Data Scarce Environment - A Case of Kabul River Basin, Afghanistan
Authors: Akhtar Fazlullah , Awan Usman Khalid , Tischbein Bernhard , Liaqat Umar Waqas
Published: April 2018

The Kabul River basin (KRB) of Afghanistan, a lifeline of around 10 million people, has multiplicity of governance, management and development related challenges leading to inequity, inadequacy and unreliability of irrigation water distribution. Prior to any uplifting intervention, there is a need to evaluate the performance of irrigation system on long term basis to identify the existing bottlenecks. Although there are several indicators used for the performance evaluation of the irrigation schemes, but we used the coefficient of variation (CV) of actual evapotranspiration (ETa) in space (basin, sub-basin, and provincial level), relative evapotranspiration (RET) and temporal CV of RET to assess the equity, adequacy and reliability of water distribution respectively, from 2003 to 2013. The ETa was estimated through surface energy balance system (SEBS) algorithm and the ETa estimates were validated using advection aridity (AA) method with R2 value of 0.81 and 0.77 at Nawabad and Sultanpur stations respectively. The global land data assimilation system (GLDAS) and moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) products were used as main inputs to the SEBS. Results show that mean seasonal sub-based RET values during summer (May – September) (0.37 ± 0.06) and winter (October – April) (0.40 ± 0.08) are below the target values (RET ≥0.75) during 2003-2013. The CV of mean ETa within sub-basins and provinces for the entire study period has equitable distribution of water from October-January (0.09±0.04) whereas the highest inequity (0.24±0.08) in water distribution is during early summer. The range of the CV of mean ETa (0.04-0.06) on monthly and seasonal basis shows the unreliability of water supplies in several provinces or sub-basins. The analysis of temporal CV of mean RET highlights unreliable water supplies across the entire basin. The maximum ETa during the study period was estimated for Shamal sub-basin (552±43mm) while among provinces Kunar experienced the highest ETa (544±39mm). This study highlights the dire need for interventions to improve the irrigation performance in time and space. The proposed methodology can be used as a framework for monitoring and implementing the water distribution plans in future.
Determination of Some Variables Affecting Risk Factors of Coronary Heart Diseases in University Students
Authors: Ozkan Ali , Turkmen Mutlu , Bozkus Taner , Kul Murat , Soslu Recep , Yasarturk Fatih , Aydin Recep , Oz Umit
Published: April 2018

The purpose of the present study was to determine the relationship between healthy lifestyle behaviors, physical fitness and coronary risk factors in university students. 320 male and female (nm:171; nf:149) students from a university participated in this study voluntarily. For the determination of body composition and Body Mass Indexes (BMI), subjects’ height, body weight, and skinfold thickness were taken and body fat percentage (%Fat) was determined. Healthy lifestyle behaviors were determined using the healthy lifestyle behaviors questionnaire. Indicators of physical fitness included flexibility (sit-up) (F), muscle strength and endurance (isometric knee (KS), back strength (BS) and a total of shuttle (TS), sprint performance, BMI, and body fat percentage (%fat). Coronary heart disease risk factors included mean arterial blood pressure (systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP)), fasting blood levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), hematocrit (HT), and hemoglobin (HM). Results indicated subjects have normal body mass index, body fat percentage, SBP, DBP, TG, TCF, BS, KS. The results of the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Analysis, indicated that SBP, DBP, TG, TCF, BS, KS for male and female was significantly correlated with flexibility (sit-up) (F), muscle strength and endurance (isometric knee (KS), back strength (BS) and total of shuttle (TS)), sprint performance. (p<0.01; p<0.05), In conclusion, the findings of the present study indicated that physical fitness and healthy lifestyle behaviors play a determinant role in coronary heart disease risk factors for male and female students from a university.
The Symmetry of Linear Molecules
Authors: Chubb Katy L. , Jensen Per , Yurchenko Sergei N.
Published: April 2018

A numerical application of linear-molecule symmetry properties, described by the D∞h point group, is formulated in terms of lower-order symmetry groups Dnh with finite n. Character tables and irreducible representation transformation matrices are presented for Dnh groups with arbitrary n-values. These groups are subsequently used in the construction of symmetry-adapted ro-vibrational basis functions for solving the Schrödinger equations of linear molecules as part of the variational nuclear motion program TROVE. The TROVE symmetrisation procedure is based on a set of "reduced" vibrational eigenvalue problems with simplified Hamiltonians. The solutions of these eigenvalue problems have now been extended to include the classification of basis-set functions using ℓ, the eigenvalue (in units of ℏ) of the vibrational angular momentum operator L ^ z . This facilitates the symmetry adaptation of the basis set functions in terms of the irreducible representations of Dnh. 12C2H2 is used as an example of a linear molecule of D∞h point group symmetry to illustrate the symmetrisation procedure.
Overburden Failure and Ground Pressure Behaviour of Longwall Top Coal Caving in Hard Multi-layered Roof
Authors: Zhu Zhijie , Zhang Hongwei , Nemcik Jan , Cao Chen , Han Jun
Published: April 2018

In the extra-thick coal seams and multi-layered hard roofs, the longwall hydraulic support yielding, coal face spalling, strong deformations of goaf-side entry, and severe ground pressure dynamic events typically occur at the longwall top coal caving longwall faces. Based on the Key strata theory an overburden caving model is proposed here to predict the multilayered hard strata behaviour. The proposed model together with the measured stress changes in coal seam and underground observations in Tongxin coal mine provides a new idea to analyse stress changes in coal and help to minimise rock bursts in the multi-layered hard rock ground. Using the proposed primary Key and the sub-Key strata units the model predicts the formation and instability of the overlying strata that leads to abrupt dynamic changes to the surrounding rock stress. The data obtained from the vertical stress monitoring in the 38 m wide coal pillar located adjacent to the longwall face indicates that the Key strata layers have a significant influence on ground behaviour. Sudden dynamically driven unloading of strata was caused by the first caving of the sub-Key strata while reloading of the vertical stress occurred when the goaf overhang of the sub-Key strata failed. Based on this findings several measures were recommended to minimise the undesirable dynamic occurrences including pre-split of the hard Key strata by blasting and using the energy consumption yielding reinforcement to support the damage prone gate road areas. Use of the numerical modelling simulations was suggested to improve the key theory accuracy.
PROGRAM PENDIDIKAN SEKS UNTUK MENINGKATKAN PROTEKSI DIRI DARI EKSPLOITASI SEKSUAL PADA ANAK USIA DINI
Authors: Akbar Zarina , Muzdalifah Fellianti
Published: April 2018

Abstract: This research aims to know the capability of seksual Protection for Children from sexual Exploitation between before and after get sexual program learning. The method is used in this research quantitative method with quasi experiment. The analysis resultan between experiment group which get tereatment of measurement before (pre-test) and after treatment (Post-test) found that t= 5,548, p= 0,000<0,05 (significant). It Means there are significant different for experiment group between before and after treatment sexual program learning had given. Abstrak: Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kemampuan proteksi seksual pada anak dari eksploitasi seksual antara sebelum dan sesudah mendapatkan program pendidikan seksual. Metode yang dipakai dalam penelitian ini adalah metode kuantitatif kuasi eksperimen. Hasil analisis antara kelompok eksperimen yang mendapatkan perlakuan pada pengukuran sebelum (pre-test) dan sesudah perlakuan (post-test) menemukan yaitu t= 5,548, p= 0,000<0,05 (signifikan). Artinya ada perbedaan yang signifikan pada kelompok eksperimen antara sebelum dan sesudah perlakuan program pendidikan seks diberikan. Kata kunci: Program Pendidikan Seks, Proteksi Diri Anak, Eksploitasi Seksual
PENINGKATAN KEMAMPUAN MENYUSUN KALIMAT BAHASA ARAB MELALUI PEMBELAJARAN BERBASIS KERJA SAMA (PBK)
Authors: Rasyi Yumna , Setiadi Syamsi
Published: April 2018

This research aims to improved recitation achievement in writing Arabic language by language learning based on working together. This research conducted in 2 cycles, each cycles have for components are: Action, obsevation, and reflection. The results showed student achievement in sentence writing improved every cycles. In conclusion that application learning strategy with PBK can improved learning quality for Nahu 2 related to making simpel sentences and appropriate as the rules of Arab fusha. As suggested for PBK can be applicated not only in Nahu 2 learning but also in the other elements arabic language

Abstak

 Penelitian tindakan kelas ini bertujuan meningkatkan hasil belajar menulis kalimat dalam bahasa Arab melalui Pembelajaran Bahasa berbasis Kerja sama (PBK). Penelitian dilaksanakan dalam dua siklus, setiap siklus berisi empat komponen, yaitu: perencanaan; aksi/tindakan; observasi; dan refleksi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan hasil belajar siswa dalam menulis kalimat meningkat dari setiap sik-lusnya. Dengan demikian dapat disimpulkan bahwa penerapan strategi mengajar dengan PBK dapat meningkatkan kualitas pembelajaran Nahu 2 yang menyangkut materi penyusunan kalimat sederhana sesuai kaidah tatabahasa Arab fusha. Disarankan agar PBK dapat diterapkan bukan hanya dalam pembelajaran Nahu 2 tapi juga pada pembelajaran unsur-unsur bahasa Arab yang lain.
Adding the Predictive P into Personal Protective Equipment
Authors: Horseman Samantha J. , Sloman Colin M. , Seay Steven A. , Abdrabbuh Mohammed A. , Alem Yasser
Published: April 2018

OSHA has reported in 2016 that the upstream industry has one of the highest rates of severe injuries, in some measures, it actually has the highest. Therefore, imagine a world where these accidents, injuries and diseases could be predicted before they actually happened. Such a system has been developed and tested that will redefine the HSE industry thinking. The Human Sensory Predictive Personal Protective Equipment (PPPE) system which is founded on a plurality of machine, predictive methods, and supervisory safety alert system was developed by the efactory (Saudi Aramco: Innovation lab). This game-changing system measures human sensory central and peripheral signals, via human – machine interface - namely brain signals measured by electroencephalography (EEG), and biometrics (heart rate, stress response, temperature, body position and location) measured by specialized sensors built into personal protective equipment (e.g. hard hats, safety glasses, gloves, and belts). The real time outputs from the PPPE could produce anticipated alerts and supervisory instructions to workers and worksite personnel. This innovative system predictively determines risk and alert levels associated to worksite tasks involving, personnel, equipment, and the environment. This system redefines the industry's current thinking through five core value propositions: situational awareness, knowledge and skill retention, biofeedback loops, predictive analytics, and safety alert system. Firstly, it is capable of identifying human awareness states (e.g. disengaged, boredom, fatigue, sleep deprivation) from a collection of brain signals, which is further validated by biometrics. These biological measurements are associated to an adaptive biofeedback system to the worker. The predictive analytics system contributes through a knowledge proposition of the potential of gathering sensory information based on ‘predictive opportunities'. In one work shift there are a total of 86,400 seconds of predictive power/employee that until now, have been left undiscovered. This further challenges and contributes to the well-known safety industry paradigms such as the Henrich - accident triangle. This biofeedback system leverages human machine interface collecting both the brain signals and biometrics. Currently, HSE alert systems do not provide methods and models to utilize awareness through the human computer interface (HCI). This intelligent human sensory system rises to the challenge in developing an innovative platform that could be capable of providing early detection and indication of any hazardous scenario in O&G operations.
Hydraulic Deep‐Core Sampling Affects Bulk Density and Carbon Stock Measurements
Authors: Dold C. , Hatfield J. L. , Sauer T. J. , Cambardella C. , Wacha K. M.
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

Hydraulic sampling can affect bulk density measurements.

The effect was greater for the subsoil.

Correction measures had little or negative influence.

Hydraulic sampling can induce artificial compaction or gaps in soil cores, which affects bulk density (BD) and carbon (C) stock estimation. We compared BD (0–120 cm) from hydraulic samples (BDhs) with soil pit samples (BDpit) within a corn (Zea mays, L.)–soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] rotation field in central Iowa. Although BDhs varied substantially compared with BDpit with RMSE of 0.15 g cm−3 and with increasing soil depth, the difference was not significant and did not significantly affect C stock estimates. Correcting for sampling hole depth significantly underestimated BDhs and is not recommended. Calculating C stocks on a mass‐based approach, thus avoiding BD effects, showed good results for the topsoil but underestimated subsoil C. This study did not account for different field conditions, which can equally affect BDhs. Further studies are needed to investigate the impact of hydraulic sampling induced errors.
Does Cover Crop Radish Supply Nitrogen to Corn?
Authors: Ruark Matthew D. , Chawner Megan M. , Ballweg Michael J. , Proost Richard T. , Arriaga Francisco J. , Stute James K.
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

Radish as a cover crop does not supply nitrogen to the subsequent corn crop.

Radish can result in neutral, negative, and positive effects on corn yield.

Radish can have substantial nitrogen uptake in the fall, but effects on spring soil nitrogen are variable.

Radish (Raphanus sativus L.) grown as a cover crop can accumulate a significant amount of N when planted by late summer. However, it remains unclear if the N in the radish biomass can supply N to a subsequent corn (Zea mays L.) crop. The objectives of this project were to: (i) measure radish growth and N uptake, (ii) determine the effect of radish growth on plant available N content in soil throughout the subsequent growing season, and (iii) determine the effects of radish on corn yields and response to N fertilizer. This study was conducted across nine site‐years in northeastern and southern Wisconsin, with radish planted mid‐August following winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) harvest. The experimental design was a randomized complete block, split plot design, with cover crop as the whole plot factor and N rate as the split plot factor. Radish N uptake was ranged from 19.7 to 202 kg ha−1 across all site‐years. The effect of radish on in‐season plant available N (PAN) content differed across growing seasons, with radish both increasing and decreasing PAN. The ANOVA and regression analysis showed mostly neutral effects of radish on corn yield, although corn yield increases and decreases following radish occurred. This research supports the use of radish as a trap crop for fall N, as environmentally meaningful yields of N were contained in plant biomass, but also demonstrates that radish has no N fertilizer replacement value to the subsequent crop.
A Comprehensive Model for Single Ring Infiltration I: Initial Water Content and Soil Hydraulic Properties
Authors: Stewart Ryan D. , Abou Najm Majdi R.
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

New single ring infiltration model accounts for a wide range of experimental conditions.

Soil capillarity as function of initial water content was explored.

Model closely matched HYDRUS‐3D simulations for thirty infiltration scenarios.

Model was tested with both Brooks and Corey and van Genuchten–Mualem hydraulic parameters.

Brooks and Corey parameters gave more consistent predictions for cumulative infiltration.

Single ring infiltration tests are commonly used to understand soil hydraulic properties. While a number of models have been developed to describe three‐dimensional infiltration from single ring sources, these expressions are often restricted to cases where the soil is initially dry and the source pressure head is negligible. These conditions may restrict the use of these expressions in real field settings. In this study we modified a set of infiltration models to explicitly account for variations in soil hydraulic properties, initial conditions, and experimental setups. The resultant expressions allowed us to explore how soil capillary length (a measure of the capillary force acting through the wetted zone) and three‐dimensional wetting profiles vary under different initial matric heads. Specifically, as initial matric head increases, infiltration becomes increasingly one‐dimensional due to a decrease of the soil capillary force. However, for most realistic situations (i.e., moderately wet to very dry initial conditions) the model can be simplified by assuming a constant capillary length. The resulting expressions compared well with numerical results from HYDRUS‐3D for five different soils, including both dry and wet initial conditions, two ring insertion depths, and two ponding depths. Overall, the model provides further insight on the variations in soil capillarity (as sorptivity) and infiltration across a range of soil types and initial conditions, and can be used to describe single ring infiltration under nearly every scenario.
Soil Systems for Upscaling Saturated Hydraulic Conductivity for Hydrological Modeling in the Critical Zone
Authors: Libohova Zamir , Schoeneberger Phil , Bowling Laura C. , Owens Phillip R. , Wysocki Doug , Wills Skye , Williams Candiss O. , Seybold Cathy
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

Saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) was measured with different methods.

Ksat was upscaled from point to catchment to watershed scales.

Upscaled Ksat predicted streamflow at a large watershed without model calibration.

A soil system approach was used to successfully upscale Ksat for streamflow predictions

Successful hydrological model predictions depend on appropriate framing of scale and the spatial‐temporal accuracy of input parameters describing soil hydraulic properties. Saturated soil hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) is one of the most important properties influencing water movement through soil under saturated conditions. It is also one of the most expensive to measure and is highly variable. The objectives of this research were (i) to assess the ability of Amoozemeters, wells, piezometers, and flumes to accurately represent Ksat at a small catchment scale and (ii) to extrapolate Ksat to a larger watershed based on available soil data and soil landscape models for simulating streamflow using the Distributed Hydrological Soil Vegetation Model. The mean Ksat between Amoozemeters, wells, and flumes varied from 2.4 to 4.9 × 10−7 m s−1, and differences were not significant. Mixed trends in mean Ksat for slope positions and soil series were observed. The strongest significant and consistent trend in mean Ksat was observed for soil depth. The mean Ksat decreased exponentially with depth, from 6.51 × 106 m s−1 for upper horizons to 2.37 × 10−7 m s−1 for bottom horizons. Recognizing the significantly decreasing trend of Ksat with soil depth and the lack of consistent trends between soils and slope positions for small catchments, Ksat values were extrapolated from the small catchments occurring in Dillon Creek to another large watershed (Hall Creek) based on soil similarity and distribution. The Nash–Sutcliffe model overall efficiency of 0.52 indicated a good performance in simulating streamflows without model calibration. Combining Ksat measurement methods in small catchments with an understanding of soil landscapes and soil distribution relationships allowed successful upscaling of localized soil hydraulic properties for streamflow predictions to larger watersheds.
Testing the Fill‐and‐Spill Model of Subsurface Lateral Flow Using Ground‐Penetrating Radar and Dye Tracing
Authors: Nyquist Jonathan E. , Toran Laura , Pitman Lacey , Guo Li , Lin Henry
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

Lateral flow patterns revealed by dye tracing agreed with time‐lapse GPR data.

Lateral flow downslope varied from <1 to 1 m at adjacent sites.

3D radar detected banding in the strike direction but dye fingering did not.

Fractured saprock modifies the fill‐and‐spill model by facilitating vertical flow.

Preferential flow (PF), which bypasses large portions of the soil or subsurface matrix, is critical in the transport of water and dissolved constituents in the unsaturated zone. To test the “fill‐and‐spill” model of hillslope hydrology that describes the generation and pattern of downslope lateral PF after storms, we used dye tracer and time‐lapse, ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) on a forested hillslope in the Susquehanna–Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory. We injected 50 L of water mixed with Brilliant Blue dye (4 g L−1) into a shallow trench cut perpendicular to the slope and used GPR to monitor the tracer downslope across a 1.0‐ by 2.0‐m grid. The site was then excavated to the soil–saprock interface and photographed to document the dye pathways. We observed vertical dye fingering near the infiltration trench. Downslope lateral PF at the soil–saprock boundary was limited to ~0.40 m, which is evidence that the soil–saprock interface did not fill‐and‐spill. The extent, depth, and direction of the downslope PF indicated by GPR generally matched the dye staining patterns in the excavation, but the resolution of the 800‐MHz GPR antenna was insufficient to distinguish small fingers of dye. A revised fill‐and‐spill model was proposed for this site that incorporates the PF through fractured saprock before water encounters fresh bedrock surface. This study demonstrates that GPR integrated with dye tracer infiltration can provide a useful means of testing hillslope hydrological hypotheses and unraveling the complexity of PF at the hillslope scale in a field setting.
Frontiers in Hydropedology: Interdisciplinary Research from Soil Architecture to the Critical Zone
Authors: Li Xiao-Yan , Lin Henry , Gerke Horst H.
Published: April 2018

Core Ideas

This special section focuses on interactions between soils and hydrologic processes in landscapes.

These contributions stem from the 3rd International Conference on Hydropedology.

The 10 articles fall into four themes.

This preface for the special section provides a brief background on hydropedology as an emerging interdisciplinary science. The 10 articles included in this special section stem from presentations given at the third International Conference on Hydropedology held in August 2016 in Beijing, China, which highlighted the importance of soil architecture and preferential flow, soil moisture and hillslope hydrology, hydrologic flux and soil structure interactions at different scales, soil biophysical and biochemical complexity, and Critical Zone science.
Waste management policy and employment: the case of France
Authors: Ben Zaied Younes , Ben Cheikh Nidhaleddine , Nguyen Pascal , Badrane Mahjoub Mohamed
Published: April 2018

This paper examines whether a causal relationship exists between waste tonnage and employment when the waste collection is entrusted to a private operator in France (i.e. waste management policy by delegation of service). The empirical investigation is based on weekly data for four waste streams for the period from January 2015 to June 2017. Using nonstationary time series techniques including cointegration, VECM (Vector Error Correction Model) and long-run causality test of Toda and Yamamoto (1995) within a bivariate framework, the results demonstrate potential causal negative relationship between waste tonnage and employment. For three waste streams (i.e. household waste, outdoor garbage waste and miscellaneous waste), the results suggest that waste management practices that aim at entrusting the collection and treatment to a private operator (i.e. waste management by delegation of service) are not economically beneficial to society, because this policy does not favor environmental jobs creation. The paper calls for the adoption of other waste management practices to preserve employment in the waste collection sector.
Comparison of plasma corticosterone concentration, muscle fibre diameter, and apoptotic markers between normal and pale, soft, exudative (PSE) turkey breast muscles
Authors: GÓRSKA MAGDALENA , WOJTYSIAK DOROTA
Published: April 2018

The increasing production potential of birds is correlated with a lower health and immune potential, resulting in the appearance of numerous meat quality defects. The greatest concern for gallinaceous poultry (chickens and turkeys) is PSE meat, which is characterized by light colour, soft texture and a reduced water-binding capacity. The aim of the study was to compare plasma corticosterone concentration, muscle fibre diameter, and the apoptotic markers between normal and pale, soft, exudative (PSE) turkey breast muscles. The results show, that the PSE group is characterized by a significantly higher plasma corticosterone concentration and a significantly greater muscle fibre diameter at 30 min post mortem compared to the normal group. The time of refrigerated storage (4°C) of meat contributes significantly to reducing muscle fibre diameter in the PSE group at 24 h post mortem compared to 30 min post mortem. Additionally, the results obtain showed that the caspase-3 activity at 30 min post mortem increased significantly in the turkey breast muscles of PSE compared with the normal group. Moreover, the PSE group demonstrated the higher apoptotic potential measured in the breast muscle of turkey compared with the normal group. It is stated from the obtained results that the incidence of PSE meat in turkeys may be associated with their higher susceptibility to stress factors and stressinduced pathological states.
Investasi dalam Perspektif Ekonomi Islam: Pendekatan Teoritis dan Empiris
Authors: Pardiansyah Elif
Published: April 2018

Investment is a commitment to withhold excess funds in order to gain profit in the future. Nevertheless, there are unscrupulous individuals who utilize investment as a means of collecting funds from the public with products and activities that are not according to sharia. Therefore, explaining the principles of sharia in investing becomes important as a guide for society. Eclpisit and implicit investment activities contained in the number of Qur’anic verses and the sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad, who once ran the business and became a partner of the Mecca investor of his day. The principle of sharia investment is any form of muamalah may be done until there is a prohibited prohibition, the water search for forbidden activities in a business activity, both object (product) and the process of activity that contains elements haram, gharār, maysīr, ribā, tadlīs, talaqqī al-rukbān, ghabn, ḍarar, rishwah, maksiat and ẓulm. In investing, there are sharia rules regarding what covenants are allowed, what is prohibited, and risks that arise as an integral part of investment activity.
Influence of oil film stiffness on natural characteristics of single-rotor three-input helicopter main gearbox
Authors: Chen Yuan , Zhu Ru Peng , Feng Zai Chun , Jin Guang Hu , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2018

The elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) contact model is established, the oil film stiffness is calculated based on Dowson-Higginson empirical minimum thickness equation. The vibration model of single-rotor three-input helicopter main reducer is proposed by lumped mass method, and nonlinear factors like oil film stiffness, dynamic meshing force are taken into account. The influence of oil film stiffness on system natural frequency is analyzed as well. The results show that oil film stiffness of the internal and external meshing pairs in the planetary gear system have greater impact on the natural frequency, which tends to destabilize the system. Therefore, the planetary gear train is the most crucial branch regarding the system splash lubrication. When all the oil film stiffness in the system are greater than 4×109 N/m, the natural frequencies tend to be stable. This study can provide the theoretical reference for the lubrication characteristics in the single-rotor multi-input helicopter.
Distribution of endotoxins in full scale pharmaceutical wastewater treatment plants and its relationship with microbial community structure
Authors: He Xuemeng , Ding Lili , Su Wenbo , Ma Haijun , Huang Hui , Wang Yanru , Ren Hongqiang
Published: April 2018

Endotoxins are potential toxics impacting human health through respiration derived in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), yet the formation of endotoxins during wastewater treatment processes is still lacking research. In our study, the distribution of endotoxins and bacterial community structure in the wastewater of three full scale pharmaceutical WWTPs were explored using the limulus amebocyte lysate (LAL) test and MiSeq technique. Results showed that higher endotoxin activities in the influent of Plant A and Plant C (560 and 1140 EU/mL), stemming from the fermentation process, were found compared to that of Plant B (135 EU/mL), coming from the process of chemical synthesis. During the anaerobic treatment and the cyclic activated sludge system (CASS) in the three WWTPs, the endotoxin activity increased, while it declined in the aerobic treatment system. In all bioreactors, the relative abundance of Gram-negative bacteria accounted for 50.0–94.6%. Bacteria with high lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in LAL assay were found at the genus level of Bacteroides, Enterococcus, Desulfovibrio, and Megasphaera.
Potential Role of Inflammation in Associations between Particulate Matter and Heart Failure
Authors: Ji Xiaotong , Zhang Yingying , Li Guangke , Sang Nan
Published: April 2018

Recently, numerous studies have found that particulate matter (PM) exposure is correlated with increased
hospitalization and mortality from heart failure (HF). In addition to problems with circulation, HF patients
often display high expression of cytokines in the failing heart. Thus, as a recurring heart problem, HF is
thought to be a disorder characterized in part by the inflammatory response. In this review, we intend to discuss
the relationship between PM exposure and HF that is based on inflammatory mechanism and to provide a comprehensive,
updated evaluation of the related studies. Epidemiological studies on PM-induced heart diseases are
focused on high concentrations of PM, high pollutant load exposure in winter, or susceptible groups with heart
diseases, etc. Furthermore, it appears that the relationship between fine or ultrafine PM and HF is stronger than
that between HF and coarse PM. However, fewer studies paid attention to PM components. As for experimental
studies, it is worth noting that coarse PM may indirectly promote the inflammatory response in the heart through
systematic circulation of cytokines produced primarily in the lungs, while ultrafine PM and its components can
enter circulation and further induce inflammation directly in the heart. In terms of PM exposure and enhanced
inflammation during the pathogenesis of HF, this article reviews the following mechanisms: hemodynamics,
oxidative stress, Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and epigenetic regulation. However, many problems are still unsolved,
and future work will be needed to clarify the complex biologic mechanisms and to identify the specific
components of PM responsible for adverse effects on heart health.
Synthesis and Modifications of Electron-withdrawing Groups Based on Multi-cyano Heterocyclics
Authors: Deng Guowei , Wang Qihui , Yang Min , Li Bingke , Han Tao , Chang Bo , Li Xianghui , Zhang Xiaoling , Li Zhonghui
Published: April 2018

Electron deficient compounds are extensively studied in the field of molecular materials.
Compared to the simplest electron acceptors, multi-cyano heterocyclics performed excellent properties
in electron-withdrawing ability, thermal stability, etc. This review provides a survey of the synthesis
and modifications of two kinds of multi-cyano heterocyclics and their applications.
Assessing the Efficacy of an Educational Smartphone or Tablet App With Subdivided and Interactive Content to Increase Patients’ Medical Knowledge: Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Timmers Thomas , Janssen Loes , Pronk Yvette , van der Zwaard Babette C , Koëter Sander , van Oostveen Dirk , de Boer Stefan , Kremers Keetie , Rutten Sebastiaan , Das Dirk , van Geenen Rutger CI , Koenraadt Koen LM , Kusters Rob , van der Weegen Walter
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

Modern health care focuses on shared decision making (SDM) because of its positive effects on patient satisfaction, therapy compliance, and outcomes. Patients’ knowledge about their illness and available treatment options, gained through medical education, is one of the key drivers for SDM. Current patient education relies heavily on medical consultation and is known to be ineffective.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to determine whether providing patients with information in a subdivided, categorized, and interactive manner via an educational app for smartphone or tablet might increase the knowledge of their illness.

METHODS

A surgeon-blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted with 213 patients who were referred to 1 of the 6 Dutch hospitals by their general practitioner owing to knee complaints that were indicative of knee osteoarthritis. An interactive app that, in addition to standard care, actively sends informative and pertinent content to patients about their illness on a daily basis by means of push notifications in the week before their consultation. The primary outcome was the level of perceived and actual knowledge that patients had about their knee complaints and the relevant treatment options after the intervention.

RESULTS

In total, 122 patients were enrolled in the control group and 91 in the intervention group. After the intervention, the level of actual knowledge (measured on a 0-36 scale) was 52% higher in the app group (26.4 vs 17.4, P<.001). Moreover, within the app group, the level of perceived knowledge (measured on a 0-25 scale) increased by 22% during the week within the app group (from 13.5 to 16.5, P<.001), compared with no gain in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS

Actively offering patients information in a subdivided (per day), categorized (per theme), and interactive (video and quiz questions) manner significantly increases the level of perceived knowledge and demonstrates a higher level of actual knowledge, compared with standard care educational practices.

CLINICALTRIAL

International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number ISRCTN98629372; http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN98629372 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/73F5trZbb)
Development and Evaluation of a Hybrid Course in Clinical Virology at a Faculty of Pharmacy in Lille, France (Preprint)
Authors: Goffard Anne , Odou Pascal , Aliouat El Moukhtar , Aliouat-Denis Cécile-Marie , Carnoy Christophe , Décaudin Bertrand , Damien Cuny , Hamoudi Mounira , Pinçon Claire , Quelennec Katia , Zanetti Sebastien , Ravaux Pierre , Standaert Annie
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

During their studies, pharmacy students must acquire the specific skills in clinical virology required for their subsequent professional practice. Recent experiments on teaching and learning in higher education have shown that hybrid courses strengthen the students’ commitment to learning and enable high-quality knowledge acquisition.

OBJECTIVE

This study concerned the design and deployment of a hybrid course that combines face-to-face and Web-based instruction in clinical virology for fourth-year pharmacy students. The study’s objectives were to (1) measure the students’ level of involvement in the course, (2) gauge their interest in this type of learning, and (3) highlight any associated difficulties.

METHODS

The study included 194 fourth-year pharmacy students from the Lille Faculty of Pharmacy (University of Lille, Lille, France) between January and June 2017. The students followed a hybrid course comprising an online learning module and 5 tutorial sessions in which professional situations were simulated. The learning module and 3 online evaluation sessions were delivered via the Moodle learning management system. Each tutorial session ended with an evaluation. The number of Moodle log-ins, the number of views of learning resources, and the evaluation marks were recorded. The coefficient for the correlation between the marks in the online evaluation and those in the tutorials was calculated. The students’ opinions and level of satisfaction were evaluated via a course questionnaire.

RESULTS

The course’s learning resources and Web pages were viewed 21,446 and 3413 times, respectively. Of the 194 students, 188 (96.9%) passed the course (ie, marks of at least 10 out of 20). There was a satisfactory correlation between the marks obtained in the online evaluations and those obtained after the tutorials. The course met the students’ expectations in 53.2% of cases, and 57.4% of the students stated that they were able to work at their own pace. Finally, 26.6% of the students stated that they had difficulty organizing their work around this hybrid course.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that pharmacy students were strongly in favor of a hybrid course. The levels of attendance and participation were high. However, teachers must be aware that some students will encounter organizational difficulties.
Artificial Intelligence for Diabetes Management and Decision Support: Literature Review (Preprint)
Authors: Contreras Ivan , Vehi Josep
Published: April 2018

BACKGROUND

Artificial intelligence methods in combination with the latest technologies, including medical devices, mobile computing, and sensor technologies, have the potential to enable the creation and delivery of better management services to deal with chronic diseases. One of the most lethal and prevalent chronic diseases is diabetes mellitus, which is characterized by dysfunction of glucose homeostasis.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this paper is to review recent efforts to use artificial intelligence techniques to assist in the management of diabetes, along with the associated challenges.

METHODS

A review of the literature was conducted using PubMed and related bibliographic resources. Analyses of the literature from 2010 to 2018 yielded 1849 pertinent articles, of which we selected 141 for detailed review.

RESULTS

We propose a functional taxonomy for diabetes management and artificial intelligence. Additionally, a detailed analysis of each subject category was performed using related key outcomes. This approach revealed that the experiments and studies reviewed yielded encouraging results.

CONCLUSIONS

We obtained evidence of an acceleration of research activity aimed at developing artificial intelligence-powered tools for prediction and prevention of complications associated with diabetes. Our results indicate that artificial intelligence methods are being progressively established as suitable for use in clinical daily practice, as well as for the self-management of diabetes. Consequently, these methods provide powerful tools for improving patients’ quality of life.