bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effects of Vegetarian and Vegan Diet during Pregnancy on the Health of Mothers and Offspring
Authors: Sebastiani Giorgia , Herranz Barbero Ana , Borrás-Novell Cristina , Alsina Casanova Miguel , Aldecoa-Bilbao Victoria , Andreu-Fernández Vicente , Pascual Tutusaus Mireia , Ferrero Martínez Silvia , Gómez Roig María Dolores , García-Algar Oscar
Published: March 2019

Vegetarian and vegan diets have increased worldwide in the last decades, according to the knowledge that they might prevent coronary heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Althought plant-based diets are at risk of nutritional deficiencies such as proteins, iron, vitamin D, calcium, iodine, omega-3, and vitamin B12, the available evidence shows that well planned vegetarian and vegan diets may be considered safe during pregnancy and lactation, but they require a strong awareness for a balanced intake of key nutrients. A review of the scientific literature in this field was performed, focusing specifically on observational studies in humans, in order to investigate protective effects elicited by maternal diets enriched in plant-derived foods and possible unfavorable outcomes related to micronutrients deficiencies and their impact on fetal development. A design of pregestational nutrition intervention is required in order to avoid maternal undernutrition and consequent impaired fetal growth.
Effect of Lipid Emulsion on Stability of Ampicillin in Total Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Stawny Maciej , Gostyńska Aleksandra , Dettlaff Katarzyna , Jelińska Anna , Główka Eliza , Ogrodowczyk Magdalena
Published: March 2019

Background: Ampicillin (AMP) is frequently administered parenterally in critically ill patients with meningitis or endocarditis. Many of them require parallel infusion of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) admixtures. The aim of the study was to determine the physicochemical stability of AMP in TPN admixtures. Methods: AMP was added to two formulations of TPN admixtures differing in the lipid emulsion (Lipofundin® MCT/LCT 20% or LIPIDem®). Samples were stored at 4 ± 1 °C with light protection, and at 25 ± 1 °C with and without light protection to assess the impact of temperature and light on formulation stability. Every 24 h the pH, zeta potential, mean droplet diameter (MDD) of a lipid emulsion, and AMP concentration using HPLC method were determined. The assessment of stability and compatibility of TPN admixtures with vitamins and trace elements was carried out immediately after preparation and after 24 h of storage. Results: The addition of AMP as well as vitamins and trace elements to the TPN admixtures did not affect their physical stability. An increase in the pH value of approx. 0.6 and reduction of zeta potential were observed. The MDD of the lipid emulsions was below the limit of 500 nm (dynamic light scattering (DLS) method) and no fat droplets greater than 525 nm were observed (light diffraction (LD) method). The content of AMP after the first 24 h was within the acceptable limit of 90% for TPN admixtures stored at 4 ± 1 °C and 25 ± 1 °C with light protection. Conclusions: The results showed that co-administration of AMP in the same bag with TPN admixture at the tested dose is possible when used ex tempore and with light protection.
Correction: Hou et al. Emerging Role of Vitamins D and K in Modulating Uremic Vascular Calcification: The Aspect of Passive Calcification. Nutrients 2019, 11(1):152
Authors: Hou Yi-Chou , Lu Chien-Lin , Zheng Cai-Mei , Chen Ruei-Ming , Lin Yuh-Feng , Liu Wen-Chih , Yen Tzung-Hai , Chen Remy , Lu Kuo-Cheng
Published: March 2019

The authors wish to make the following changes to their paper (Hou et al [...]
Numerical Study of Tunable Photonic Nanojets Generated by Biocompatible Hydrogel Core-Shell Microspheres for Surface-Enhanced Raman Scattering Applications
Authors: Wang Yu-Jui , Dai Chi-An , Li Jia-Han
Published: March 2019

Core-shell microspheres have been applied in various research areas and, in particular, they are used in the generation of photonic nanojets with suitable design for photonic applications. The photonic nanojet is a narrow and focused high-intensity light beam emitting from the shadow-side of microspheres with tunable effective length, thus enabling its applications in biosensing technology. In this paper, we numerically studied the photonic nanojets brought about from biocompatible hydrogel core-shell microspheres with different optical properties. It was found that the presence of the shell layer can significantly affect the characteristics of the photonic nanojets, such as the focal distance, intensity, effective length, and focal size. Generally speaking, the larger the core-shell microspheres, the longer the focal distance, the stronger the intensity, the longer the effective length, and the larger the focal size of the generated photonic nanojets are. The numerical simulations of the photonic nanojets from the biocompatible core-shell microspheres on a Klarite substrate, which is a classical surface-enhancing Raman scattering substrate, showed that the Raman signals in the case of adding the core-shell microspheres in the system can be further enhanced 23 times in water and 108 times in air as compared in the case in which no core-shell microspheres are present. Our study of using tunable photonic nanojets produced from the biocompatible hydrogel core-shell microspheres shows potential in future biosensing applications.
Solid-State Polymerization of Poly(Ethylene Furanoate) Biobased Polyester, III: Extended Study on Effect of Catalyst Type on Molecular Weight Increase
Authors: Chebbi Yosra , Kasmi Nejib , Majdoub Mustapha , Papageorgiou George Z. , Achilias Dimitris S. , Bikiaris Dimitrios N.
Published: March 2019

In this study, the synthesis of poly(ethylene furanoate) (PEF), catalyzed by five different catalysts—antimony acetate (III) (Sb Ac), zirconium (IV) isopropoxide isopropanal (Zr Is Ip), antimony (III) oxide (Sb Ox), zirconium (IV) 2,4-pentanedionate (Zr Pe) and germanium (IV) oxide (Ge Ox)—via an industrially common combination of melt polymerization and subsequent solid-state polymerization (SSP) is presented. In all reactions, proper amounts of 2,5-dimethylfuran-dicarboxylate (DMFD) and ethylene glycol (EG) in a molar ratio of DMFD/EG= 1/2 and 400 ppm of catalyst were used. Polyester samples were subjected to SSP procedure, under vacuum application, at different reaction times (1, 2, 3.5, and 5 h) and temperatures of 190, 200, and 205 °C. Carboxyl end-groups concentration (–COOH), intrinsic viscosity (IV), and thermal properties, via differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), were measured for all resultant polymers to study the effect of the used catalysts on the molecular weight increase of PEF during SSP process. As was expected, it was found that with increasing the SSP time and temperature, the intrinsic viscosity and the average molecular weight of PEF steadily increased. In contrast, the number of carboxyl end-groups content showed the opposite trend as intrinsic viscosity, that is, gradually decreasing during SSP time and temperature increase. It is worthy to note that thanks to the SSP process an obvious and continuous enhancement in the thermal properties of the prepared PEF samples was attained, in which their melting temperatures (Tm) and degree of crystallinity (Xc) increase progressively with increasing of reaction time and temperature. To predict the time evolution of polymers IV, as well as the hydroxyl and carboxyl content of PEF polyesters during the SSP, a simple kinetic model was developed. From both the theoretical simulation results and the experimental measurements, it was demonstrated that surely the Zr Is Ip catalyst shows the best catalytic characteristics compared to all other used catalysts herein, that is, leading in reducing—in a spectacular way—the activation energy of the involved both transesterification and esterification reactions during SSP.
Reception of Revelation in Darksiders: The Case of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse
Authors: Nicolet Valérie , Ischer Benoît
Published: March 2019

This paper explores how the series Darksiders appropriates the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse and elaborates on them. It reflects on how this reception affects our understanding of the four horsemen and of apocalyptic literature broadly.
Singularity Theodicy and Immortality
Authors: Sohn Hohyun
Published: March 2019

Recent advances in technology have brought humanity to a unique point in history where theodicy is no more just a religious matter but also a matter of science and technology. Ray Kurzweil offers a non-religious Singularity theodicy of this-worldly subjective immortality (the survival of the soul after the dissolution of the body) with three strategies: the freezing strategy in cryonics, the cloning strategy in genetics, and the transference strategy in information technology. I argue that three challenges need to be met for the Singularity theodicy to be successful. The first challenge is related to the technological plausibility of human brain scanning and whether one can scan unconsciousness without making it into something other than unconsciousness. Based on the philosophies of Alfred North Whitehead and Derek Parfit, I offer the second criticism that the non-identity problem arises, due to personal identity being a temporal seriality of experiences between the biological person and the unloaded data. Lastly, even if intelligent patterns become immortal in the Singularity, this would not be what Christianity has called the immortality of the soul.
Geochemistry of Flood Waters from the Tar River, North Carolina Associated with Hurricane Matthew
Authors: Humphrey Charles , Iverson Guy , Skibiel Caitlin , Sanderford Christa , Blackmon Jamil
Published: March 2019

Hurricane Matthew caused flooding in Eastern North Carolina that was categorized as a one in 500-year frequency event. Matthew was the second such event in less than 20 years, following Hurricane Floyd in 1999. The frequency of intense storms is projected to increase for many coastal areas, including North Carolina, because of climate change. The goal of this study was to gain a better insight into the geochemistry of flood waters associated with major flood events. Water samples (n = 22) from the Tar River in Greenville, North Carolina were collected over a two-week period after Matthew moved across the state. Results show that total Kjeldahl nitrogen, dissolved organic carbon, phosphate, and Escherichia coli concentrations and exports were significantly (p < 0.05) higher when the river was above flood stage relative to below. Isotopic analyses of δ15N and δ18O in NO3 in flood waters suggest that wastewater, possibly from sanitary sewer and confined animal feeding operation overflows, was the major source of nitrate associated with flood waters. Regulatory efforts to reduce nutrient loading to coastal waters may be complicated by contributions associated with intense storm events, given that such storms are becoming more frequent.
Model-Free Stochastic Collocation for an Arbitrage-Free Implied Volatility, Part II
Authors: Le Floc’h Fabien , Oosterlee Cornelis W.
Published: March 2019

This paper explores the stochastic collocation technique, applied on a monotonic spline, as an arbitrage-free and model-free interpolation of implied volatilities. We explore various spline formulations, including B-spline representations. We explain how to calibrate the different representations against market option prices, detail how to smooth out the market quotes, and choose a proper initial guess. The technique is then applied to concrete market options and the stability of the different approaches is analyzed. Finally, we consider a challenging example where convex spline interpolations lead to oscillations in the implied volatility and compare the spline collocation results with those obtained through arbitrage-free interpolation technique of Andreasen and Huge.
Correlation Filter-Based Visual Tracking for UAV with Online Multi-Feature Learning
Authors: Fu Changhong , Lin Fuling , Li Yiming , Chen Guang
Published: March 2019

In this paper, a novel online learning-based tracker is presented for the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in different types of tracking applications, such as pedestrian following, automotive chasing, and building inspection. The presented tracker uses novel features, i.e., intensity, color names, and saliency, to respectively represent both the tracking object and its background information in a background-aware correlation filter (BACF) framework instead of only using the histogram of oriented gradient (HOG) feature. In other words, four different voters, which combine the aforementioned four features with the BACF framework, are used to locate the object independently. After obtaining the response maps generated by aforementioned voters, a new strategy is proposed to fuse these response maps effectively. In the proposed response map fusion strategy, the peak-to-sidelobe ratio, which measures the peak strength of the response, is utilized to weight each response, thereby filtering the noise for each response and improving final fusion map. Eventually, the fused response map is used to accurately locate the object. Qualitative and quantitative experiments on 123 challenging UAV image sequences, i.e., UAV123, show that the novel tracking approach, i.e., OMFL tracker, performs favorably against 13 state-of-the-art trackers in terms of accuracy, robustness, and efficiency. In addition, the multi-feature learning approach is able to improve the object tracking performance compared to the tracking method with single-feature learning applied in literature.
A Method for Broccoli Seedling Recognition in Natural Environment Based on Binocular Stereo Vision and Gaussian Mixture Model
Authors: Ge Luzhen , Yang Zhilun , Sun Zhe , Zhang Gan , Zhang Ming , Zhang Kaifei , Zhang Chunlong , Tan Yuzhi , Li Wei
Published: March 2019

Illumination in the natural environment is uncontrollable, and the field background is complex and changeable which all leads to the poor quality of broccoli seedling images. The colors of weeds and broccoli seedlings are close, especially under weedy conditions. The factors above have a large influence on the stability, velocity and accuracy of broccoli seedling recognition based on traditional 2D image processing technologies. The broccoli seedlings are higher than the soil background and weeds in height due to the growth advantage of transplanted crops. A method of broccoli seedling recognition in natural environments based on Binocular Stereo Vision and a Gaussian Mixture Model is proposed in this paper. Firstly, binocular images of broccoli seedlings were obtained by an integrated, portable and low-cost binocular camera. Then left and right images were rectified, and a disparity map of the rectified images was obtained by the Semi-Global Matching (SGM) algorithm. The original 3D dense point cloud was reconstructed using the disparity map and left camera internal parameters. To reduce the operation time, a non-uniform grid sample method was used for the sparse point cloud. After that, the Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) cluster was exploited and the broccoli seedling points were recognized from the sparse point cloud. An outlier filtering algorithm based on k-nearest neighbors (KNN) was applied to remove the discrete points along with the recognized broccoli seedling points. Finally, an ideal point cloud of broccoli seedlings can be obtained, and the broccoli seedlings recognized. The experimental results show that the Semi-Global Matching (SGM) algorithm can meet the matching requirements of broccoli images in the natural environment, and the average operation time of SGM is 138 ms. The SGM algorithm is superior to the Sum of Absolute Differences (SAD) algorithm and Sum of Squared Differences (SSD) algorithms. The recognition results of Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) outperforms K-means and Fuzzy c-means with the average running time of 51 ms. To process a pair of images with the resolution of 640×480, the total running time of the proposed method is 578 ms, and the correct recognition rate is 97.98% of 247 pairs of images. The average value of sensitivity is 85.91%. The average percentage of the theoretical envelope box volume to the measured envelope box volume is 95.66%. The method can provide a low-cost, real-time and high-accuracy solution for crop recognition in natural environment.
Real-Time Global Ionospheric Map and Its Application in Single-Frequency Positioning
Authors: Zhang Liang , Yao Yibin , Peng Wenjie , Shan Lulu , He Yulin , Kong Jian
Published: March 2019

The prevalence of real-time, low-cost, single-frequency, decimeter-level positioning has increased with the development of global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs). Ionospheric delay accounts for most errors in real-time single-frequency GNSS positioning. To eliminate ionospheric interference in real-time single-frequency precise point positioning (RT-SF-PPP), global ionospheric vertical total electron content (VTEC) product is designed in the next stage of the International GNSS Service (IGS) real-time service (RTS). In this study, real-time generation of a global ionospheric map (GIM) based on IGS RTS is proposed and assessed. There are three crucial steps in the process of generating a real-time global ionospheric map (RTGIM): estimating station differential code bias (DCB) using the precise point positioning (PPP) method, deriving slant total electron content (STEC) from PPP with raw observations, and modeling global vertical total electron content (VTEC). Experiments were carried out to validate the algorithm’s effectiveness. First, one month’s data from 16 globally distributed IGS stations were used to validate the performance of DCB estimation with the PPP method. Second, 30 IGS stations were used to verify the accuracy of static PPP with raw observations. Third, the modeling of residuals was assessed in high and quiet ionospheric activity periods. Afterwards, the quality of RTGIM products was assessed from two aspects: (1) comparison with the Center for Orbit Determination in Europe (CODE) global ionospheric map (GIM) products and (2) determination of the performance of RT-SF-PPP with the RTGIM. Experimental results show that DCB estimation using the PPP method can realize an average accuracy of 0.2 ns; static PPP with raw observations can achieve an accuracy of 0.7, 1.2, and 2.1 cm in the north, east, and up components, respectively. The average standard deviations (STDs) of the model residuals are 2.07 and 2.17 TEC units (TECU) for moderate and high ionospheric activity periods. Moreover, the average root-mean-square (RMS) error of RTGIM products is 2.4 TECU for the one-month moderate ionospheric period. Nevertheless, for the high ionospheric period, the RMS is greater than the RMS in the moderate period. A sub-meter-level horizontal accuracy and meter-level vertical accuracy can be achieved when the RTGIM is employed in RT-SF-PPP.
Integration of Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 for Classification and LULC Mapping in the Urban Area of Belém, Eastern Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Tavares Paulo Amador , Beltrão Norma Ely Santos , Guimarães Ulisses Silva , Teodoro Ana Cláudia
Published: March 2019

In tropical regions, such as in the Amazon, the use of optical sensors is limited by high cloud coverage throughout the year. As an alternative, Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) products could be used, alone or in combination with optical images, to monitor tropical areas. In this sense, we aimed to select the best Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) classification approach for tropical regions using Sentinel family products. We choose the city of Belém, Brazil, as the study area. Images of close dates from Sentinel-1 (S-1) and Sentinel-2 (S-2) were selected, preprocessed, segmented, and integrated to develop a machine learning LULC classification through a Random Forest (RF) classifier. We also combined textural image analysis (S-1) and vegetation indexes (S-2). A total of six LULC classifications were made. Results showed that the best overall accuracy (OA) was found for the integration of S-1 and S-2 (91.07%) data, followed by S-2 only (89.53%), and S-2 with radiometric indexes (89.45%). The worse result was for S-1 data only (56.01). For our analysis the integration of optical products in the stacking increased de OA in all classifications. However, we suggest the development of more investigations with S-1 products due to its importance for tropical regions.
Ensemble Dictionary Learning for Single Image Deblurring via Low-Rank Regularization
Authors: Li Jinyang , Liu Zhijing
Published: March 2019

Sparse representation is a powerful statistical technique that has been widely utilized in image restoration applications. In this paper, an improved sparse representation model regularized by a low-rank constraint is proposed for single image deblurring. The key motivation for the proposed model lies in the observation that natural images are full of self-repetitive structures and they can be represented by similar patterns. However, as input images contain noise, blur, and other visual artifacts, extracting nonlocal similarities only with patch clustering algorithms is insufficient. In this paper, we first propose an ensemble dictionary learning method to represent different similar patterns. Then, low-rank embedded regularization is directly imposed on inputs to regularize the desired solution space which favors natural and sharp structures. The proposed method can be optimized by alternatively solving nuclear norm minimization and l 1 norm minimization problems to achieve higher restoration quality. Experimental comparisons validate the superior results of the proposed method compared with other deblurring algorithms in terms of visual quality and quantitative metrics.
Towards a Better Understanding of the Relationship between Individual’s Self-Reported Connection to Nature, Personal Well-Being and Environmental Awareness
Authors: Fretwell Kay , Greig Alison
Published: March 2019

This paper examines the relationships between an individual’s self-reported connection to nature (CTN) and aspects of their personal well-being (PWB) and environmental awareness. Specifically, it addresses (i) the relationship between CTN and PWB; (ii) the external variables which influence trait-level CTN over a person’s life course and (iii) how individuals feel about CTN. A mixed methodology is used, with qualitative data adding depth and insight into the statistical associations recorded. The results are drawn from a sample of 222 respondents living in the City of Bath, UK. This study uncovered a significant relationship between CTN and some aspects of PWB which did not always align with research undertaken in other countries. Demographic variables, childhood experiences of nature, usual frequency of nature contact, and nature-related hobbies were all found to affect CTN. A number of barriers to CTN were also identified. Although the literature already provides considerable evidence of positive relationships between contact with nature and a range of mental and physical health benefits, the nature and mechanisms behind these relationships are not well understood, particularly for the UK population. As these associations are increasingly being used to underpin both health and environmental interventions and campaigns it is important that we better understand these relationships.
Sustainability Assessment of Cultural Heritage Tourism: Case Study of Pingyao Ancient City in China
Authors: Weng Lisheng , He Bao-Jie , Liu Lina , Li Chenxi , Zhang Xin
Published: March 2019

Cultural heritage tourism (CHT) has become an important part of the tourism industry. Therefore, it is essential to evaluate the sustainability of CHT destinations for tourism development. The majority of existing studies have examined the destination sustainability of ecotourism with the considerations of three stakeholder groups, namely, resource administration, tourist, and local community. However, the impact of tourism enterprises on destination sustainability has been constantly ignored in CHT-related studies. To fill these gaps, this study aims at developing an indicator system for comprehensively assessing the sustainability of CHT destinations. Specifically, this study identified an evaluation indicator system based on the Delphi technique and applied it to the context of Pingyao Ancient City in China. Results demonstrated that scores obtained by all four stakeholder groups ranged between 3.0 and 4.0 and the overall sustainability score was only 63.94, indicating that Pingyao was in the “somewhat sustainable” state according to the criteria (0−25, unsustainable; 25−50, somewhat unsustainable; 50−75, somewhat sustainable; 75−100, sustainable) specified in previous studies. A more balanced outcome should be achieved where each stakeholder’s interests are fully considered, but not at the expense of the others. The findings are of great significance for heritage tourism literature and sustainable destination management.
An Note on Uncertainty Inequalities for Deformed Harmonic Oscillators
Authors: Ghobber Saifallah
Published: March 2019

The aim of this paper is to prove some uncertainty inequalities for a class of integral operators associated to deformed harmonic oscillators.
Combined Effect of Different Amounts of Irrigation and Mulch Films on Physiological Indexes and Yield of Drip-Irrigated Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Wang Fengjiao , Wang Zhenhua , Zhang Jinzhu , Li Wenhao
Published: March 2019

Exploring the effect of irrigation on biodegradable film-covered drip-irrigated maize is essential for sustainable agricultural development in arid areas. These regions, like Xinjiang in China, are home to suitable irrigation and biodegradable films. Through field trials, four levels of irrigation, and two biodegradable films and one common polyethylene film were set up to study the effects of different treatments on the physiology, growth indicators, and yield of maize. The results showed that the effects of irrigation and biodegradable films on the photosynthetic index and fluorescence index of maize reached a very significant level (p < 0.01). The effect of single factor irrigation and biodegradable films on the photosynthetic index and fluorescence index of maize reached a significant level (p < 0.05). The photosynthesis index, fluorescence index, plant height, LAI (leaf area index) and yield of W3M3 treatment had the highest value, when compared with other treatments. The W1M1 treatment had the lowest value. The photosynthesis index, fluorescence index, plant height, LAI, and yield of the W3M2 treatment were second only to W3M3. In addition, the output was only 40 kg ha−1 less than W3M3. W3M2 has the best treatment effect from a perspective of sustainable agricultural development and efficient water saving; the optimal irrigation amount was 5625 m3 ha−1, induction period was 60 d, and thickness was 0.01 mm. The results of this study are of guiding significance for the promotion of the use of biodegradable films, search for suitable irrigation, and development of low-carbon agriculture.
Assessing the Impacts of Univariate and Bivariate Flood Frequency Approaches to Flood Risk Accounting for Reservoir Operation
Authors: Zhou Ting , Liu Zhiyong , Jin Juliang , Hu Hongxiang
Published: March 2019

Flood frequency analysis plays a fundamental role in dam planning, reservoir operation, and risk assessment. However, conventional univariate flood frequency analysis carried out by flood peak inflow or volume does not account for the dependence between flood properties. In this paper, we proposed an integrated approach to estimate reservoir risk by combining the copula-based bivariate flood frequency (peak and volume) and reservoir routing. Through investigating the chain reaction of “flood frequency—reservoir operation-flood risk”, this paper demonstrated how to simulate flood hydrographs using different frequency definitions (copula “Or” and “And” scenario), and how these definitions affect flood risks. The approach was applied to the Meishan reservoir in central China. A set of flood hydrographs with 0.01 frequency under copula “Or” and “And” definitions were constructed, respectively. Upstream and downstream flood risks incorporating reservoir operation were calculated for each scenario. Comparisons between flood risks from univariate and bivariate flood frequency analysis showed that bivariate flood frequency analysis produced less diversity in the results, and thus the results are more reliable in risk assessment. More importantly, the peak-volume combinations in a bivariate approach can be adjusted according to certain prediction accuracy, providing a flexible estimation of real-time flood risk under different prediction accuracies and safety requirements.
An Analysis of the Sectional Classification of Anthurium (Araceae): Comparing Infrageneric Groupings and Their Diagnostic Morphology with a Molecular Phylogeny of the Genus
Authors: Carlsen Mónica M. , Croat Thomas B.
Published: March 2019

This study presents an evaluation of the currently accepted sectional classification of the genus Anthurium Schott (Araceae) in light of a recently published molecular phylogeny for the group. In general, disagreements between these two occur because many diagnostic morphological characters used in the sectional classification turned out to be highly homoplasious within Anthurium, with multiple independent gains or losses of seemingly similar morphologies in distantly related clades. A new sectional classification of Anthurium that more accurately represents species relationships and the evolutionary history of the genus is much needed, and here we propose the first steps toward it. Results from this study suggest that out of the 18 sections and two series recognized in Anthurium, only seven of these groups are monophyletic (i.e., sections Andiphilum (Schott) Croat, Calomystrium (Schott) Engl., Dactylophyllium (Schott) Engl., Leptanthurium (Schott) Engl., Polyphyllium Engl., Tetraspermium (Schott) Engl., and the newly recognized section Multinervia (Croat) Carlsen & Croat, previously a series within section Pachyneurium (Schott) Engl.). All other sections are either not monophyletic or their monophyly could not be accurately tested. A complete revision of the sectional classification of Anthurium will require a more comprehensive taxon sampling and a better supported molecular phylogeny.
THE FORMS OF WATER CONNECTION IN SILICATE COMPOUNDS AND BUILDING MATERIALS/VANDENS RYŠIO FORMOS SILIKATINIUOSE JUNGINIUOSE IR STATYBINĖSE MEDŽIAGOSE
Authors: Sasnauskas Kęstutis , Elzbutas Henrikas , Palubinskaitė Danutė
Published: March 2019

While altering manufacturing conditions of building materials and the factors influencing the synthesis of nonorganic compounds a few inner processes such as kinetics, crystallisation, polymerisation and crystalline/chemical structure can be directed towards predictable results; thus the principal characteristics of products, ie mechanical, physical, chemical, etc, can be influenced.

An essential role is played by water in the chemistry of non-organic materials, including silicate compounds. This role manifests itself in different stages and ways.

This paper deals with the structure of water, with emphasis placed on the values of hydrogen connections, associations and dielectric constant e as well as on their influence on hydration, consequently, on the binding and hardening processes.

The paper also deals with the analysis and identification of different forms of water connections in compound mobile water, crystalline water, complex water as well as hydroxides. Application possibilities of the infrared absorption, ie spectroscopy, are presented in more detail. Fig 9 shows the dependence of the dielectric constant ϵ on frequency. Fig 10 shows the dependence of the dielectric constant ϵ on temperature in amorphous SiO2 and quartz with different particle sizes mixed with a small amount of water (1, 13…1, 8 %). Possibilities of applying the dielectrometry method for defining characteristics of water and forms of water connection have been confirmed.
SOME THOUGHTS ON CIVIL ENGINEERING STUDY PROGRAMMES/MINTYS APIE STATYBOS KRYPTIES STUDIJŲ PROGRAMAS
Authors: Čižas Algirdas E.
Published: March 2019

More than four hundred study programmes are registered in Lithuanian higher education institutions for undergraduate level, and the same number for postgraduate studies. Any demand of a labour market cannot substantiate such an abundance of programmes. Some details of the previous mechanism of financing universities had stipulated the increase of the number. Sickness of the abundance is characteristic of the civil engineering subject area as well. In Table 1 there are listed all the programmes in this subject area: 12 different programmes for undergraduate, 10 for Master, and 5 for specialised professional studies. Some very specialised names of programmes make us suppose the programmes are for non-university studies.

Basic (undergraduate), Master and Doctoral studies make a consistent system of Lithuanian civil engineering higher education. Specialised one-year professional postgraduate study programmes do not fit to the system, they have been provoked by a wrong image of inferiority of undergraduate programmes. Similar subjects are included into both undergraduate and “professional” study programmes (examples are presented in Table 2). The title of Dipl Eng could be justified if it would be awarded by any professional body, not by universities. If it is necessary to lengthen duration of civil engineering education, it is better to substitute the four-year undergraduate programmes for five-year ones.

Binary higher education system is coming to Lithuania, non-university study programmes and higher education institutions (colleges) will be introduced. Civil engineering study programmes fitting for this new higher education sector should be selected.

Almost all the civil engineering programmes consist of very small courses (mostly of two-three credits), and six-seven subjects are studied every term. It is reasonable to shorten the term list up to five subjects, not more.

Some efforts of civil engineers are directed to creating a common European higher education area according to the Sorbonne and Bologna declarations [3, 4]. The European Union Civil Engineering Education and Training Thematic Network Project (EUCEET) has a task to elaborate common requirements of curriculum, quality assessment and mutual recognition of the higher education.
ON THE QUESTION OF THERMAL EQUILIBRIUM OF WINDOWS AND WALLS/LANGŲ IR SIENŲ ŠILUMINĖS PUSIAUSVYROS KLAUSIMU
Authors: Kedys Algimantas , Barkauskas Vytautas
Published: March 2019

Skaičiuojant savituosius šilumos nuostolius laikoma, kad šilumos srautas yra vienamatis į visus atitvaroje esančius elementus (langus, sienas). ŠI prielaida praktiškai teisinga, kol langų ir sienų izoliacinė galia ne itin skiriasi. Didėjant šiam skirtumui šilumos srautas iškrypsta ir pradeda tekėti mažiausio pasipriešinimo keliu.

Iš 1 pav. matyti, kad sienos šiluminei varžai didėjant, o lango—nekintant, lango vidaus paviršiaus temperatūrų skirtumas artėja prie pastoviojo dydžio, o šiluminės pusiausvyros kriterijus U s /U l [4] artėja prie nulio. Tai rodo, kad temperatūrinis laukas, mažėjant šiluminės pusiausvyros kriterijui, kreivėja (2 pav.) ir tuomet atitvaros savitieji šilumos nuostoliai H a nuo tam tikro momento negali būti skaičiuojami pagal 1 formulę.

Nustatyta [4], kad tuo atveju, kai Nuselto kriterijus Nu =B (Gr·Pr)n=0,5, šilumos perdava vyksta tik šilumos laidumu ir konvekcinė šilumos srauto dedamoji keičia kryptį žemesnio potencialo link (į langą), o sienos paviršių iki taško x l (2 pav.) apteka lygiagrečiai tam paviršiui.

Langų ir sienų šilumine pusiausvyra pavadinę atvejį, pagal kurį savitiesiems šlumos nuostoliams skaičiuoti galima taikyti 1 formulę, ją galima apytikriai įvertinti pagai šiluminės pusiausvyros kriterijų U s /U l su sąlyga, kad U s /U l >0,1, antraip savitiesiems šilumos nuostoliams apskaičiuoti šis metodas netinka.
DETERMINATION OF RELATIONSHIP Σ(Ε) OVER THE YIELD STRESS OF CONCRETE REINFORCING STEELS/TEMPIAMOSIOS ARMATŪROS Σ(Ε) PRIKLAUSOMYBĖS VIRŠ TAKUMO RIBOS NUSTATYMAS
Authors: Marčiukaitis Gediminas , Šneideris Arnoldas
Published: March 2019

Calculating and designing the tension zone of strengthening concrete structures and analysing its workability in stages which are close to break-up stage and distribution internal forces, existing various reinforcements, it is necessary to know characteristics of deformation and their change. Experiments show that forms of relationship between stress and strain of concrete reinforcing steels have great influence on accuracy of determination of reinforced concrete structures during all work stages of these structures. There are various analytic expressions for describing relationship of stress-strain and deformation of reinforcement. Our analysis showed that results of calculation for the same type of reinforcement are different. Methods suggested by Eurocode 2 also do not give accurate analytic expression of σ(ϵ) diagrams part over yield limit.

The analysis and comparison of offered analytic σ(ϵ) expressions showed that the basis of a more accurate description of this relationship may be the accepted formula (16). Its application for description of σ(ϵ) relationship of different classes of reinforcing steel is suggested. Formula (17) is suggested for description of σ(ϵ) over yield point. Equation (19) is suggested for description of mild steels and deformation of reinforcement over yield limit by standard ISO—100 80.
PROPERTY VALUATION BY MULTIPLE CRITERIA METHODS/NEKILNOJAMOJO TURTO VERTINIMAS DAUGIAKRITERINIU METODU
Authors: Malienė Vida , Zavadskas Edmundas K. , Kaklauskas Artūras , Raslanas Saulius
Published: March 2019

Multiple criteria valuation methods are widely used in real estate valuation all over the world. In USA, UK and other countries these methods are part of techniques based on comparative and reinstatement values as well as on income of use. They are used in valuating various property characteristics, ie its location or obsolescence degree. In Germany, however, multiple criteria valuation technique refers to a separate group of property valuation methods applied when market data are unavailable or insufficient (ie purchasing, selling or renting prices are not known). The above methods have been used for real estate valuation since 1976. Dr. H. E. Auerhammer [1] was the first to apply these approaches to solving real estate valuation problem caused by the scarcity of market data. These methods supplemented with systems of criteria developed by other authors were later applied to particular cases when three major commonly used property valuation methods could not be applied. Thus, K. Gablenz [2] suggests using the method described in assessing plots intended for agriculture, while B. Bischoff [3] offers to use it for determining the investments into plots. R. Vogel [4] thinks that the approach may be used for determining the approximate value of land, whereas G. Sommer and P. Zimmermann [5] and Piehler [6] developed a system of criteria to be used as a part of the method described in determining the differences between the value of quantitative and qualitative characteristics of an object and its market value. T. Gierardy and R. Moeckel [7] described the advantages and disadvantages of methods based on multiple criteria analysis. The above methods are widely used in Germany for property valuation, the peak of their application being associated with the unification of East and West Germany in 1990 [8].

Multiple criteria analysis presented in this paper for property valuation may be used to the advantage of various interested parties (see Fig 1). The representatives of various parties including appraisers, buyers, sellers and investors may use it for their particular purposes:

appraiser may apply this method to real estate value analysis for determining the market, use and other values of real estate being mortgaged, ensured, privatised, divided or nationalised;

investor may rely on it for more efficient use of this property;

buyer may use it for choosing property which would satisfy his personal needs to the best advantage;

seller has to determine the market price of his property that would ensure its competitive ability on the market.

To satisfy all the needs described multiple criteria valuation method presented in the paper may be successfully used. To show its efficiency the solution of a sample problem, representing a real case is provided.
METHODS OF SYNTHESIS OF TECHNICAL AND ORGANISATIONAL-TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS IN CONSTRUCTION/SYNTHESEMETHODEN DER TECHNISCHEN UND ORGANISATORISCH-TECHNOLOGISCHEN LÖSUNGEN IM BAUWESEN
Authors: Zavadskas Edmundas K. , Ustinovičius Leonas
Published: March 2019

Quite frequently one has to solve variant synthesis multicriterial selection problems in construction. These problems consist of many technical-organisational solutions interacting with each other.

The solution of each problem can be made of two or more alternatives.

In each step k according to j, the effectiveness criterion is selected from variants i. Using the entropy method the weights of effectiveness indices in each step are calculated. By the criterion k(1) the effectiveness of variants in each step is determined. From the row of priorities obtained the first two variants are selected and they are repeatedly calculated by the same methods. The selection of variants (branches) synthesised is made by the criterion Ωs (2). A priority row of variants is determined according to the rule that the greater value of Ωsmeans the best variant (3).

The second algorithm is used when there are more than two variants in the steps of problem. A joint matrix between separate steps of solutions is determined. Weights of criteria for each step are determined using the entropy method. It is necessary to regulate the values of importance according the number of variants. The weights obtained by the method of entropy are multiplied by the coefficient considering the number of alternatives analysed (4).

The final valuation of branch is obtained according to the formula No 5. The best synthesis result is the one, having the largest Ωs value.

The values of criteria effectiveness of each step of each net program branch are summed, when priorities are determined using the same coefficients of effectiveness. The weights are summed using formula 6.

It is possible to calculate the priorities of alternatives using the ideal point method.

The methods mentioned above were used to solve real life construction problems.
Volunteer Associations and Integration of Immigrants in France
Authors: Berthomière William , Maurel Mathilde , Richard Yann
Published: March 2019

The issue of integration is key in the literature about migration. It refers to a set of public policies aiming at integrating foreign populations in a given society. This paper aims at investigating the relationships between the integration of four communities settled in France (Algerian, Portugese, Turkish, and Vietnamese) and the presence of associations. The methodology is based on two approaches, quantitative economics and geography. It uses a new database, extracted from the Journal Officiel and several surveys, noticeably TeO. In a first step we ask whether the regional distribution and the density of associations explain the degree of integration of the migrants stemming from the four communities. In a second step we test whether membership in an association increases or decreases the adoption of oppositional identities and if the latter influences the integration via the access to employment.migration, econometrics, geography, social integration
Technical and economic indicators of milk production systems in the Caiuá sandstone region
Authors: Lugão Simony Marta Bernardo , Volsi Bruno , Costa Gustavo Vaz da , Almeida Edson Luiz Diogo de , Telles Tiago Santos
Published: March 2019

The aim of this study was to analyze technical and economic indicators of family milk production systems, with different technology levels, in the Caiuá sandstone area in Northwestern Paraná, Brazil. The analysis period covers the agricultural years 2002/2003 to 2013/2014. The categorization of the milk production systems was based on information from agricultural farms monitored by the Reference Network for Family Agriculture. The cost-benefit analysis method was used for the economic assessment of milk production. Based on the results, three family milk production systems were identified in the region, characterized by the use of low, medium and high intensification technologies for pasture management. The production costs per unit area were found to be higher in the system with high technology and lower in the system with low technology. However, although the total revenue in the production system with a high technological intensification is greater than in the other systems, the capital needed for a technological transition is higher. In all the systems, when the costs were deducted, including the return on family labor, there was a profit, even with the climate and soil constraints inherent in the region.
Feedlot performance and carcass yield of Hararghe Highland (Bos indicus) bulls using different concentrate feeds
Authors: Gebremariam Tsegay Teklebrhan
Published: March 2019

A study was conducted to evaluate the feedlot performance and carcass yield of Hararghe Highland bull using different types of concentrate feeds fed grass hay as a basal diet in eastern Ethiopia. Thirty Hararghe Highland bulls were blocked by weight and randomly allocated to one of the following six treatments. T1 = Hay ad libitum + 4kg dried cafeteria leftover; T2 = Hay ad libitum + 4kg wheat bran; T3 = Hay ad libitum + 4 kg d-1 maize grain; T4 = Hay ad libitum + 4kg d-1 mix (1:1, wheat bran to maize grain, respectively); T5 = Hay ad libitum + 4kg scrambled whole groundnut; T6 = Hay ad libitum + 4kg d-1 mix (equal proportion of maize grain, wheat bran, dried cafeteria leftover and scrambled whole groundnut. Bulls were fed for 90 days and slaughtered for carcass yield studies. Bulls fed on T6 and T3 had highest (p < 0.05) finished weight and ADG than did in T2, T5 and T1. Similarly, better (p < 0.05) gain to feed ratio was noted on bulls fed T6 and T3 than rest of treatments. Carcass yield on slaughter weight was also improved in T6 and T3 consistent to feedlot performance traits. Bulls supplemented with T6 and T3 had highest carcass yield than T2, T5, T1 and T4. Therefore, this study suggested that Hararghe Highland bull has potent for feedlot industry using strategic supplementation.
Management of cleft lip and palate in Egypt: A National survey
Authors: Abulezz Tarek Abdelhameed , Elsherbiny Ahmed K. , Mazeed Ahmed S.
Published: March 2019

Background: Variable protocols for the management of cleft lip and/or palate (CLP) patients are currently used. However, to our knowledge, there are no previously published data about cleft management and practice in Egypt. Materials and Methods: One-hundred questionnaires were distributed to cleft surgeons attending the annual meeting of the Egyptian Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons in March 2016 to investigate timing, techniques and complications of cleft surgery. Seventy-two colleagues returned the questionnaire, and the data were analysed using Microsoft Excel software. Results: The majority of cleft lip cases are repaired between 3 and 6 months. Millard and Tennison repairs for unilateral cleft lip, while Millard and Manchester techniques for bilateral cleft lip are the most commonly performed. Cleft palate is usually repaired between 9 and 12 months with the two-flap push-back technique being the most commonly used. The average palatal fistula rate is 20%. Pharyngeal flap is the method of choice to correct velopharyngeal incompetence. Polyglactin 910 is the most commonly used suture material in cleft surgery in the country. Multidisciplinary cleft management is reported only by 16.5% of participants. Conclusion: Management of CLP in Egypt is mainly dependent on personal preference, not on constitutional protocols. There is a lack of multidisciplinary approach and patients’ registration systems in the majority of centres. The establishment of cleft teams from the concerned medical specialties is highly recommended for a more efficient care of cleft patients.