bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Instability of large-scale prototype Francis turbines of Three Gorges power station at part load
Authors: Chen Ting , Zhang Yuning , Li Shengcai
Published: August 2016

The rapid increase of renewable energies (e.g. wind and solar energies) requires hydroturbines (e.g. large-scale Francis turbines) to be operated at part load more frequently in order to improve the stability and flexibility of the power supply system. A device named as guide plate is currently being introduced into Francis turbines in order to shrink the size of the unit for the cost reduction. However, the effect of the guide plate on the instability of Francis turbines (especially at part load) is still an open question. This paper aims to elucidate the influence of the guide plate on the instability (e.g. in terms of large pressure fluctuation and its propagation) of the prototype Three Gorges turbines and its generation mechanisms. Computational simulations of the prototype Francis turbine have been performed and validated using on-site measurement. The results reveal that the addition of the guide plate induces an extremely low-frequency and high-amplitude pressure fluctuation at part load (e.g. guide vane opening 16°). This low-frequency pressure fluctuation initially generates in the draft tube, and then further propagates upstream (e.g. runner, guide vanes), acting as the dominant frequency. Our data analysis shows that the above pressure fluctuation is generated by the interactions between the vortex in the spiral casing induced by the guide plate and the swirling vortex rope in the draft tube.
Artificial potential field for remotely operated vehicle haptic control in dynamic environments
Authors: Le Khoa Duy , Nguyen Hung Duc , Ranmuthugala Dev , Forrest Alexander
Published: August 2016

This article presents the development of a novel artificial potential field technique for a haptic controller of an underwater remotely operated vehicle to assist the pilot to avoid obstacles. The artificial potential field technique is used to replicate potential risks presented by underwater obstacles in the vicinity of the remotely operated vehicle. A risk avoidance vector is calculated based on the artificial potential field then transmitted to a haptic joystick to generate the tactile feedback, which enables the remotely operated vehicle pilot to be alerted to potential dangers due to surrounding obstacles and prompt the pilot through the joystick to avoid the dangers and safely navigate the vehicle. The novel artificial potential field technique can deal with both stationary and moving obstacles as it is combined with an obstacle motion detection algorithm based on fuzzy C-means and Kalman filter algorithms. These algorithms are applied to process raw data from the scanning sensor to identify the relative positions and velocities between the remotely operated vehicle and the obstacles, which are employed within the artificial potential field calculations. To validate the proposed technique, the haptic joystick and the novel artificial potential field formula were applied to control a simulated remotely operated vehicle within a virtual reality environment.
Effects of iron and carbon monoxide on Lachesis muta muta venom-mediated degradation of plasmatic coagulation
Authors: Nielsen VG , Matika RW
Published: August 2016

Hypofibrinogenemia is an important clinical consequence following envenomation by Lachesis muta muta, usually attenuated or prevented by administration of antivenom. The venom of L. m. muta contains both a metalloproteinase fibrinogenase and a serine protease thrombin-like enzyme, and exposure of fibrinogen to iron (Fe) and carbon monoxide (CO) has been demonstrated to decrease its catalysis by such enzymes. Using thrombelastographic analytical techniques, it was determined that this venom displayed weak procoagulant effects combined with fibrinogenolytic effects, and pretreatment of plasma with Fe and CO markedly attenuated venom-mediated effects. Additional experiments involving heparin exposure and varying calcium concentrations demonstrated that modification of fibrinogen with Fe and CO in human plasma rendered fibrinogen not recognizable to the fibrinogenolytic metalloproteinase but did not prevent polymerization by the thrombin-like serine protease. Lastly, when venom was exposed to CO in isolation and then placed in plasma, the fibrinogenase was inhibited but the thrombin-like enzyme was not inhibited. In sum, utilizing relatively facile modifications, we demonstrated with thrombelastography that Fe and/or CO addition can protect human plasmatic coagulation from fibrinogenase activity but not the effects of the thrombin-like activity of L. m. muta venom.
A simplified shear and normal deformations nonlocal theory for bending of functionally graded piezomagnetic sandwich nanobeams in magneto-thermo-electric environment
Authors: Arefi Mohammed , Zenkour Ashraf M
Published: August 2016

A simplified three-unknown shear and normal deformations nonlocal beam theory for thermo-electro-magneto mechanical bending analysis of a nanobeam with a functionally graded material core and two functionally piezomagnetic layers is studied in this paper. The assumed structure is subjected to mechanical, thermal, electrical, and magnetic loads. An initial applied voltage and magnetic load is considered on the functionally graded piezomagnetic material layers. Eringen’s nonlocal constitutive equations are considered in the analysis. Governing equations are derived according to the present refined theory using the principle of virtual displacements. The numerical results including the deflection, electric, and magnetic potential distribution are calculated in terms of important parameters of the problem such as applied electric and magnetic potentials, two parameters of temperature distribution, and nonlocal parameter. The numerical results indicate that increase in applied electric potential increases the deflection unlike the applied magnetic potential that decreases the deflection. Furthermore, it can be concluded that increasing the nonlocal parameter leads to increase in the deflection.
Fasting glucose levels, incident diabetes, subclinical atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events in apparently healthy adults: A 12-year longitudinal study
Authors: Sitnik Debora , Santos Itamar S , Goulart Alessandra C , Staniak Henrique L , Manson JoAnn E , Lotufo Paulo A , Bensenor Isabela M
Published: August 2016

We aimed to study the association between fasting plasma glucose, diabetes incidence and cardiovascular burden after 10–12 years. We evaluated diabetes and cardiovascular events incidences, carotid intima-media thickness and coronary artery calcium scores in ELSA-Brasil (the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health) baseline (2008–2010) of 1536 adults without diabetes in 1998. We used regression models to estimate association with carotid intima-media thickness (in mm), coronary artery calcium scores (in Agatston points) and cardiovascular events according to fasting plasma glucose in 1998. Adjusted diabetes incidence rate was 9.8/1000 person-years (95% confidence interval: 7.7–13.6/1000 person-years). Incident diabetes was positively associated with higher fasting plasma glucose. Fasting plasma glucose levels 110–125 mg/dL were associated with higher carotid intima-media thickness ( β = 0.028; 95% confidence interval: 0.003–0.053). Excluding those with incident diabetes, there was a borderline association between higher carotid intima-media thickness and fasting plasma glucose 110–125 mg/dL ( β = 0.030; 95% confidence interval: −0.005 to 0.065). Incident diabetes was associated with higher carotid intima-media thickness ( β = 0.034; 95% confidence interval: 0.015–0.053), coronary artery calcium scores ⩾400 (odds ratio = 2.84; 95% confidence interval: 1.17–6.91) and the combined outcome of a coronary artery calcium scores ⩾400 or incident cardiovascular event (odds ratio = 3.50; 95% confidence interval: 1.60–7.65). In conclusion, fasting plasma glucose in 1998 and incident diabetes were associated with higher cardiovascular burden.
Catching a Catfish
Authors: Lovelock Michael
Published: August 2016

This article interrogates the cultural work of “old” media texts that take social media use as a narrative focus. Using the MTV reality show Catfish: The TV Show as a case study, I argue that, in this program, the specific conventions of reality television—authenticity, confession, and self-realization—work to produce and circulate normative scripts of “appropriate” and “inappropriate” ways to articulate the self on social media, which align with reality TV’s established investment in the concept of the “authentic” self. Furthermore, I argue that the show’s representations of social media use valorize the primacy of connecting with and accepting one’s “real” self, making legible a subject position that speaks particularly to young people—the program’s target demographic—in the contemporary juncture of 2010s “crisis” neoliberalism, by transposing political questions into personal crises.
Delayed Surgical Debridement and Use of Semiocclusive Dressings for Salvage of Fingers After Purpura Fulminans
Authors: Pino Paula A. , Román Javier A. , Fernández Felipe
Published: August 2016

Background: Purpura fulminans is a condition characterized by rapidly evolving skin necrosis and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Early recognition and aggressive supportive management has led to a decrease in its mortality rate, but most of these patients must undergo extensive soft tissue debridement and partial or total limb amputation. There is controversial evidence about the timing of surgery, suggesting that some patients may benefit from delayed debridement with limb preservation. Methods: We present a case of an 86-year-old patient who developed skin necrosis of his four limbs after infectious purpura fulminans. He was treated in the ICU with supportive measures and antibiotic treatment. Surgical debridement was delayed for 4 weeks until necrosis delimitation. Results: Only upper extremity debridement was necessary. Four fingers, including one thumb, were salvaged and successfully treated with semi-occlusive dressing without complications. Conclusion: Early recognition of infectious PF and timely supportive management are important pillars of its treatment. Delayed surgical debridement allows for less aggressive resection and good functional outcome.
Glanzmann thrombasthenia in pregnancy: Optimising maternal and fetal outcomes
Authors: Wijemanne A , Watt-Coote I , Austin S
Published: August 2016

Glanzmann thrombasthenia is a rare autosomal recessive haemorrhagic disorder. The risks of miscarriage, antepartum and postpartum haemorrhage, and neonatal complications are all increased in individuals presenting with the disease in pregnancy. Some individuals may develop antibodies to platelet glycoproteins; the presence of these antibodies is a rare cause of neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia and potential intracranial haemorrhage. Multidisciplinary care is paramount for ensuring optimal fetal and maternal outcomes in such cases. We report a case of neonatal alloimmune thrombocytopenia secondary to maternal Glanzmann thrombasthenia in pregnancy.
An introduction to quality improvement
Authors: Dawda Paresh , Raymond Mareeni
Published: August 2016

‘You must take steps to monitor and improve the quality of your work’ and ‘you must take part in systems of quality assurance and quality improvement’ are statements taken from the General Medical Council’s guidelines in Good Medical Practice. The requirement to undertake quality improvement activities, as part of the revalidation process, is a regulatory driver to enhance quality improvement. The RCGP revalidation toolkit confirms that revalidation allows flexibility in the choice of quality improvement activity. However, moving from compliance to a commitment to quality improvement can be an empowering and fulfilling exercise that can improve patient safety, clinical care, the culture of an organisation, and the many processes and protocols that lead to a functioning GP surgery. In this, the first of three articles, we discuss the principles of quality improvement. The second article offers an overview and application of a simple model, the Model for Improvement. In the final article we will discuss the importance of measurement for improvement.
A generic framework for ontology-based information retrieval and image retrieval in web data
Authors: Vijayarajan V. , Dinakaran M. , Tejaswin Priyam , Lohani Mayank
Published: August 2016

In the internet era, search engines play a vital role in information retrieval from web pages. Search engines arrange the retrieved results using various ranking algorithms. Additionally, retrieval is based on statistical searching techniques or content-based information extraction methods. It is still difficult for the user to understand the abstract details of every web page unless the user opens it separately to view the web content. This key point provided the motivation to propose and display an ontology-based object-attribute-value (O-A-V) information extraction system as a web model that acts as a user dictionary to refine the search keywords in the query for subsequent attempts. This first model is evaluated using various natural language processing (NLP) queries given as English sentences. Additionally, image search engines, such as Google Images, use content-based image information extraction and retrieval of web pages against the user query. To minimize the semantic gap between the image retrieval results and the expected user results, the domain ontology is built using image descriptions. The second proposed model initially examines natural language user queries using an NLP parser algorithm that will identify the subject-predicate-object (S-P-O) for the query. S-P-O extraction is an extended idea from the ontology-based O-A-V web model. Using this S-P-O extraction and considering the complex nature of writing SPARQL protocol and RDF query language (SPARQL) from the user point of view, the SPARQL auto query generation module is proposed, and it will auto generate the SPARQL query. Then, the query is deployed on the ontology, and images are retrieved based on the auto-generated SPARQL query. With the proposed methodology above, this paper seeks answers to following two questions. First, how to combine the use of domain ontology and semantics to improve information retrieval and user experience? Second, does this new unified framework improve the standard information retrieval systems? To answer these questions, a document retrieval system and an image retrieval system were built to test our proposed framework. The web document retrieval was tested against three key-words/bag-of-words models and a semantic ontology model. Image retrieval was tested on IAPR TC-12 benchmark dataset. The precision, recall and accuracy results were then compared against standard information retrieval systems using TREC_EVAL. The results indicated improvements over the standard systems. A controlled experiment was performed by test subjects querying the retrieval system in the absence and presence of our proposed framework. The queries were measured using two metrics, time and click-count. Comparisons were made on the retrieval performed with and without our proposed framework. The results were encouraging.
Multichannel analysis of Love waves in a 3D seismic acquisition system
Authors: Pan Yudi , Xia Jianghai , Xu Yixian , Gao Lingli
Published: August 2016

Multichannel analysis of Love waves (MALW) analyzes high-frequency Love waves to determine near-surface S-wave velocities, and it is getting increasing attention in the near-surface geophysics and geotechnique community. Based on 2D geometry spread, in which sources and receivers are placed along the same line, current MALW fails to work in a 3D seismic acquisition system. This is because Love-wave particle motion direction is perpendicular to its propagation direction, which makes it difficult to record a Love-wave signal in 3D geometries. We have developed a method to perform MALW with data acquired in 3D geometry. We recorded two orthogonal horizontal components (inline and crossline components) at each receiver point at the same time. By transforming the raw data from rectangular coordinates (inline and crossline components) to radial-transverse coordinates (radial and transverse components), we recovered Love-wave data along the transverse direction at each receiver point. To achieve a Love-wave dispersion curve, the recovered Love-wave data were first transformed into a conventional receiver offset domain, and then transformed into the frequency-velocity ([Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text]) domain. Love-wave dispersion curves were picked along the continuous dispersive energy peaks in the [Formula: see text]-[Formula: see text] domain. The validity of our proposed method was verified by two synthetic tests and a real-world example.
Decision-making in midwifery: A tripartite clinical decision
Authors: Smith Jessica
Published: August 2016

Decision-making within midwifery practice is complex and challenging, and is directly linked to the standard of care provided. In the literature around decision-making there are alternative approaches mentioned, which are founded on the notion that decision-making is either: logical, such as Elstein et al's (1978) four-stage model; intuitive, such as the intuitive-humanistic model; or an amalgamation of the two. The extent to which these existing models can be applied to midwifery decision-making is discussed, and an adapted decision-making model is presented. This modified model attempts to address the complexity of decision-making in midwifery practice, with reference to a clinical case study to illustrate its function.
A giant testicular mixed germ cell tumour
Authors: Reekhaye A , Harris A , Nagarajan S , Chadwick D
Published: August 2016

We present a case that we believe to be the largest mixed germ cell testicular tumour reported in the United Kingdom. A 23-year-old male was admitted to our urology department with a large scrotal swelling. The patient was found to have a giant left testicular tumour and a solitary lung metastasis at presentation. He underwent an emergency radical orchidectomy and subsequently received four cycles of bleomycin, etoposide and cisplatin chemotherapy. Four months after starting treatment, the tumour markers had normalised and a repeat staging computed tomography showed no active disease. The tumour reached that size because of the patient’s failure to seek medical attention due to fear and embarrassment.
Multi-disciplinary management of complex pressure sore reconstruction: 5-year review of experience in a spinal injuries centre
Authors: Thomson CH , Choudry M , White C , Mecci M , Siddiqui H
Published: August 2016

INTRODUCTION

In our regional spinal injuries unit, complex pressure ulcer reconstruction is facilitated by a monthly multidisciplinary team clinic. This study reviews a series of the more complex of these patients who underwent surgery as a joint case between plastics and other surgical specialties, aiming to provide descriptive data as well as share the experience of treating these complex wounds.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients operated on as a joint case from 2010 to 2014 were identified through a locally held database and hospital records were then retrospectively reviewed for perioperative variables. Descriptive statistics were collected.

RESULTS

12 patients underwent 15 procedures as a joint collaboration between plastic surgery and other surgical specialties: one with spinal surgery, 12 with orthopaedic and two with both orthopaedic and urology involvement. Ischial and trochanteric wounds accounted for 88% of cases with five Girdlestone procedures being performed and 12 requiring soft-tissue flap reconstruction. Mean operative time was 3.8hours. Four patients required high-dependency care and 13 patients received long-term antibiotics. Only three minor complications (20%) were seen with postoperative wound dehiscence.

DISCUSSION

The multidisciplinary team clinic allows careful assessment and selection of patients appropriate for surgical reconstruction and to help match expectations and limitations imposed by surgery, which are likely to influence their current lifestyle in this largely independent patient group. Collaboration with other specialties gives the best surgical outcome both for the present episode as well as leaving avenues open for potential future reconstruction.
Skin prick test reactivity in atopic children and their number of siblings
Authors: Siregar Beatrix , Irsa Lily , Supriatmo Supriatmo , Loebis Sjabaroeddin , Evalina Rita
Published: August 2016

Background Some studies have shown that low birth order is a risk factor for developing atopy, although these results remain inconclusive. Those studies put forth the hygiene hypothesis, which states that early childhood infections in siblings may protect against atopy. Hence, an inverse relationship between family numbers and atopy was found. Atopy may be diagnosed from a history of atopy in an individual or his family, and can be confirmed by specific IgE for allergens or positive skin prick tests.Objective To assess for an association between skin prick test reactivity in atopic children and their number of siblings.Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in May to June 2010 in elementary school children at the Kampung Baru District, Medan Regency, North Sumatera. Subjects were divided into two groups. Group I had children with < 3 siblings and group II had children with ≥ 3 siblings. Skin prick tests were done in 7 to 10-year-old children with a history of asthma, allergic rhinitis and atopic dermatitis. Skin prick test reactivity results were analyzed by Chi-square test.Results A total of 192 subjects were enrolled in this study, with 96 subjects in each group. Positive skin prick tests were significantly higher in subjects with <3 siblings than in those with >3 siblings (75% and 53.1%, respectively; P=0.003).Conclusion Atopic children with <3 siblings had more positive skin prick tests than children with >3 siblings.
Blood pressure and lipid profiles in adolescents with hypertensive parents
Authors: Fitriany Julia , Ramayati Rafita , Supriatmo Supriatmo , Rusdidjas Rusdidjas , Rina Oke , Siregar Rosmayanti
Published: August 2016

problem of increasing prevalence and causes high morbidityand mortality. It is found primarily in young males, with afamilial history of hypertension and/or cardiovascular disease.Examination of lipid profiles has been used to detect the risk ofhypertension in adolescents.Objective To compare blood pressure and lipid profiles inadolescents with and without a parental history of hypertension.Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted from January toFebruary 2012 on students from a senior high school in the TobaSamosir District, North Sumatera. Sixty-eight adolescents wereincluded, aged 15 to 18 years. Group I comprised 34 adolescentswith hypertensive parents, and group II comprised 34 adolescentswith normotensive parents. Subjects were selected based onquestionnaires. Subjects’ blood pressures were measured at rest.Three measurements were made in intervals of 10-15 minutes,then averaged for both systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Lipidprofiles were measured using the CardioCheck cholesterol testafter subjects had fasted for 12 hours.Results The median systolic blood pressures (SBP) in groupsI and II were 110 mmHg (range 93.3-123.3) and 106.7 mmHg(range 96.7-123.3), respectively, (P=0.584). The median diastolicblood pressures (DBP) were 73.3 mmHg (range 66.7-83.3) and71.7 mmHg (range 63.3-80.0), respectively, (P=0.953). Totalcholesterol and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levelsin group I were significantly higher than those levels in group II[median total cholesterol: 162.0 (range 158-170) vs. 159.0 (range150-170), respectively; (P=0.001); and mean LDL-C: 103.5 (SD3.72) vs. 99.1 (SD 4.63), respectively; (P=0.001). Multivariateanalysis revealed a correlation of moderate strength betweenparental history of hypertension and increased LDL-C (P<0.001)in adolescents.Conclusion Adolescents with and without familial historyof hypertension have no significant median blood pressuredifferences. However, adolescents with hypertensive parents have afsignificantlyhigher median total cholesterol and mean LDL-C.Furthermore, we find a correlation between parental history ofhypertension and increased LDL-C in adolescents.
Prekonávanie rozdielov systému riadenia, správy a organizácie národného školstva v medzivojnovom Československu
Authors: Dobrocká Soňa
Published: August 2016

Štúdia na základe analýzy primárnych prameňov sleduje genézu a vývoj systému organizácie slovenského národného školstva v období prvej Československej republiky (1918 – 1939) pod vplyvom centrálnych orgánov riadenia školstva. Vysvetľuje a objasňuje proces unifikácie národného školstva, ktorého charakteristikou bola úprava slovenských pomerov po vzore predvojnovej rakúskej ríšskej legislatívy platnej na území Čiech, Moravy a Sliezska. Kľúčové slová: československé školstvo, školská legislatíva, školský systém, unifikácia, povinná školská dochádzka
O reduktivnosti a pomalosti v pedagogickém výzkumu
Authors: Šeďová Klára , Švaříček Roman , Šalamounová Zuzana
Published: August 2016

Tento text je reakcí na diskusní příspěvek Jiřího Mareše věnovaný rozboru námi realizovaného výzkumného projektu, který v roce 2012 kulminoval publikací monografie Komunikace ve školní třídě (Šeďová, Švaříček & Šalamounová, 2012). Nešlo o výzkum komunikačních struktur – jak sugeruje název předchozího příspěvku –, nýbrž o obecněji zaměřené etnografické (tedy popisné) šetření zaměřené na to, jak probíhá komunikace mezi učiteli a žáky na druhém stupni základní školy, a to ve vybraných předmětech humanitního typu.Jiří Mareš vznáší vůči našemu výzkumu mnoho kritických připomínek a klade řadu otázek. Pokusíme se je utřídit do několika problémových okruhů, jimž se budeme dále věnovat. Uvádí, že: 1. výzkum měl metodologické nedostatky v oblasti sběru dat; 2. v analýze jsme se přehnaně koncentrovali na IRF strukturu, která je navíc podána zjednodušujícím způsobem; 3. nezkoumali jsme mnohé významné otázky, které s výukovou komunikací souvisejí.
HPLC Enantioseparation of Phenylcarbamic Acid Derivatives by Using Macrocyclic Chiral Stationary Phases
Authors: Hroboňová Katarína , Lehotay Jozef , Čižmárik Jozef
Published: August 2016

The HPLC by using chiral stationary phases based on macrocyclic antibiotics, dimethylphenyl carbamate cyklofructan 7 and β-cyclodextrin in terms of polar-organic separation mode (mobile phase methanol/acetonitrile/acetic acid/triethylamine) were used for enantioseparation of alkoxy derivatives of phenylcarbamic acid. The effect of the analyte structures on the efficiency of enantioseparation was investigated. The most suitable stationary phase was teicoplanin aglycone, where the separations of the enantiomers were obtained (the resolution value from 0.65 to 2.90, depending on the structure of the analyte). Significant effect on the resolution of the enantiomers has position of alkoxy substituent in the hydrophobic part of the molecule. The enantiorecognition was achieved for 3-alkoxysubstituted derivatives.
Pyrolysis Products as Soil Fertilizers: Screening of Potentially Hazardous Aromatic Compounds
Authors: Frišták Vladimír , Graser Marion , Pipíška Martin , Micháleková-Richveisová Barbora , Soja Gerhard
Published: August 2016

This study investigated the concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in pyrogenic carbonaceous materials (PCM) produced from three waste materials during slow pyrolysis at 400 and 500°C. As feedstocks bone meal (BM), biogas slurry (BC) and chicken manure (CM) were used. As potentially problematic substances 1- and 2- methylnaphthalene were analysed as indicators for methylated hydrocarbons in pyrolysis products. The phytotoxic effect of soil amendments was evaluated by a standard cress germination test with Lepidium sativum L. The analysis showed higher concentrations of the sum of 16 US-EPA PAHs in samples produced at lower temperature and in samples produced from biogas slurry. Concentrations of 1- and 2-methylnaphthalene showed similar trends with concentrations in a range of 35-205% of the sum of 16 PAHs. Germination tests showed inhibition effects of products from biogas slurry when applied in concentrations of ≥ 10 % to standard substrate. Apparently pyrolysis of biogas slurry requires special attention to avoid accumulation of PAHs and methylated naphthalenes.
High-throughput fabrication and calibration of compact high-sensitivity plasmonic lab-on-chip for biosensing
Authors: Gazzola E. , Pozzato A. , Ruffato G. , Sovernigo E. , Sonato A.
Published: August 2016

Surface plasmon resonance biosensors have recently known a rapid diffusion in the biological field and a large variety of sensor configurations is currently available. Biological applications are increasingly demanding sensor miniaturization, multiple detection in parallel, temperature-controlled environment and high sensitivity. Indeed, versatile and tunable sensing platforms, together with an accurate biological environment monitoring, could improve the realization of custom biosensing devices applicable to different biological reactions. Here we propose a smart and high throughput fabrication protocol for the realization of a custommicrofluidic plasmonic biochip that could be easily tuned and modified to address different biological applications. The sensor chip here presented shows a high sensing capability, monitored by an accurate signal calibration in the presence of concentration and temperature variation.
Antibacterial Efficiency of Hydroxyapatite Biomaterials with Biodegradable Polylactic Acid and Polycaprolactone Polymers Saturated with Antibiotics / Bionoārdāmu Polimēru Saturošu Un Ar Antibiotiskajām Vielām Piesūcinātu Biomateriālu Antibakteriālās Efektivitātes Noteikšana
Authors: Kroiča Juta , Skadiņš Ingus , Salma Ilze , Reinis Aigars , Sokolova Marina , Rostoka Dagnija , Bērza Natālija
Published: August 2016

Infections continue to spread in all fields of medicine, and especially in the field of implant biomaterial surgery, and not only during the surgery, but also after surgery. Reducing the adhesion of bacteria could decrease the possibility of biomaterial-associated infections. Bacterial adhesion could be reduced by local antibiotic release from the biomaterial. In this in vitro study, hydroxyapatite biomaterials with antibiotics and biodegradable polymers were tested for their ability to reduce bacteria adhesion and biofilm development. This study examined the antibacterial efficiency of hydroxyapatite biomaterials with antibiotics and biodegradable polymers against Staphylococcus epidermidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The study found that hydroxyapatite biomaterials with antibiotics and biodegradable polymers show longer antibacterial properties than hydroxyapatite biomaterials with antibiotics against both bacterial cultures. Therefore, the results of this study demonstrated that biomaterials that are coated with biodegradable polymers release antibiotics from biomaterial samples for a longer period of time and may be useful for reducing bacterial adhesion on orthopedic implants.
Synthesis of ordered mesoporous uranium dioxide by a nanocasting route
Authors: Zhao Ran , Wang Lin , Chai Zhi-Fang , Shi Wei-Qun
Published: August 2016

Ordered mesoporous UO2 with 3-D structure (for UO2-KIT-6) and nanowire bundles (for UO2-SBA-15) was synthesized for the first time by a nanocasting route using different ordered mesoporous silica (KIT-6 and SBA-15, respectively) as templates and uranyl nitrate hexahydrate as the metal precursor. The uranyl nitrate was impregnated into the mesopore of the silica template and was converted to U3O8 after the first step. The synthesis of ordered UO2 mesostructure was achieved by reducing the mesoporous U3O8 with silica composites under 5% H2/Ar atmosphere at 700°C, followed by a template removal process. The as-prepared UO2-KIT-6 had a particle size of several millimeters, and was constructed with uncoupled subframework mesostructure and crystalline walls, while UO2-SBA-15 possessed a rope-like morphology and consisted of nanowire arrays. The surface area and pore volume of ordered UO2 mesostructure are 47.2 m2 g−1 and 0.23 cm3 g−1 for the UO2-KIT-6, and 54.4 m2 g−1 and 0.28 cm3 g−1 for the UO2-SBA-15, respectively.
Behavior of Cs in Grimsel granodiorite: sorption on main minerals and crushed rock
Authors: Eveliina Muuri , Jussi Ikonen , Minja Matara-aho , Antero Lindberg , Stellan Holgersson , Mikko Voutilainen , Marja Siitari-Kauppi , Martin Andrew
Published: August 2016

In this study the sorption of cesium was investigated on four different minerals; quartz, plagioclase, potassium feldspar and biotite as well as granodiorite obtained from the Grimsel test site in Switzerland. The experiments were conducted in the presence of the weakly saline Grimsel groundwater simulant by determining the distribution coefficients using batch sorption experiments and PHREEQC-modelling across a large concentration range. In addition, the purity of the minerals was measured byXRDand the specific surface areas by BET method using krypton. The distribution coefficients of cesiumwere largest on biotite (0.304±0.005 m3/kg in 10-8 M). Furthermore, the sorption of cesiumon quartzwas found to be negligibly small in all investigated concentrations and the sorption of cesium on potassium feldspar and plagioclase showed similar behavior against a concentration isotherm with distribution coefficients of 0.0368±0.0004 m3/kg and 0.18±0.04 m3/kg in 10-8 M. Finally, cesium sorption behavior on crushed granodiorite followed the trend of one of its most abundant mineral, plagioclase with distribution coefficient values of 0.107±0.003 m3/kg in 10-8 M. At low concentrations (<1.0·10-6 M) cesiumwas sorbed on the frayed edge sites of biotite and once these sites are fully occupied cesium sorbs additionally to the Type II and Planar sites. As a consequence, the sorption of cesium on biotite is decreased at concentrations >1.0·10-6 M. Secondly cesium sorption on potassium feldspar and plagioclase showed similar non-linear behavior with varying concentration. The results were used to assist the interpretation of cesium diffusion process in the 2.5 year in-situ experiment carried out in the underground laboratory at Grimsel test site in Switzerland (2007–2009).
Crista galli sinusitis – a radiological impression or a real clinical entity
Authors: Manea Claudiu , Mladina Ranko
Published: August 2016

BACKGROUND. Crista galli is an anatomical structure localized in the midline, that derives from the ethmoid bone, with a compact bone structure, sometimes pneumatized. The connection between the pneumatized crista galli and the adjacent paranasal structures is usually performed through an opening similar with a sinusal ostium.

MATERIAL AND METHODS. We performed a retrospective clinical study about the incidence of the pneumatization of crista galli in 196 patients with chronic sinusitis. We evaluated the degree of pneumatization and the drainage pathways of crista galli, trying to correlate the radiological findings with the symptomatology of the patients with crista galli “sinusitis”.

RESULTS. Pneumatization of crista galli was found in 30.1% of cases. From 59 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and pneumatized crista galli, 66.4% had no opacification, 23.7% various degrees of opacification and 11.9% showed complete opacification. The presence of an opening of the pneumatized crista galli into surrounding air-cells was found in 16.98% of the patients. Headache was encountered in 76.2% of the patients with CRS and pneumatized crista galli sinusitis.

CONCLUSION. When analyzing a CT scan of a patient with CRS, we should also take into consideration the pneumatization of crista galli, which has a high variability. Most of the patients included in our study had also a certain degree of opacification of the pneumatized crista galli. Headache had a higher incidence in patients with crista galli inflammation than in CRS patients who showed no pneumatization or opacification of the crista galli (76.2% versus 60.5% in “simple” CRS patients).
THE WORLD OF JOURNALISM – THE WORLD OF PUBLIC RELATIONS ASSESSMENT OF CHANGES IN RELATIONS BETWEEN JOURNALISTS AND PR MANAGERS IN POLAND
Authors: Gawroński Sławomir
Published: August 2016

The paper presents a comparative look at the results of similar studies relating to the diagnosis of cooperation between the journalists and representatives of the PR industry in Poland. Comparable subjects, arising from the similarity of used research tools, as well as comparable attempts of the research on both environments provide good opportunities of drawing overlapping conclusions from the two research projects. Although standardization of the cooperation between journalists and PR professionals is very difficult and its description is limited by a number of variables and differentiating factors, comparing both studies makes it possible to draw conclusions about some changes or elements that have remained unchanged in relations PR managers – journalists in Poland over the last 11 years.
D. Merezhkovsky’s civil mission in the Second Polish Republic in 1919-1920-th: media and religious aspects
Authors: Rashkevych Mykola
Published: August 2016

The article discusses the issue of how Dmitry Merezhkovsky thinks about Polish Republic new religious consciousness, appearances of anti-bolshevists. Researches are based on the analysis of publications in periodicals of Polish Republic. The main issue is religious messianism of Russian and Polish peoples
Variability of suspended sediment grain size distribution in winter floods
Authors: Hejduk Agnieszka , Hejduk Leszek
Published: August 2016

Variability of suspended sediment grain size distribution in winter floods. The work presents the results of research concern variability of suspended sediment grain size, transported during the winter floods in agricultural catchment, in the period of hydrological years 2012-2015. The information about grain size distribution from nine winter flood events were collected over the study period, which allowed to analyze the variability of suspended sediment particle size during the various events. Grain size of sediment was determined using a laser particle size analyzer Mastersizer Microplus from Malvern Instruments Ltd. Variability of individual particle size classes were observed in each flood. Sand fraction dominated in seven of nine measured events. There was no significant increase of suspended sediment size in relation to the maximum of discharge. It can be explain by a relatively low discharge of recorded events. The percentage of material classified as clay (<4 μm) ranged from 0.08 to 1.01%, silt-sized material (>4 and <63 μm) ranged between 9.31 and 67.17% and sand-size material (>63 μm) ranged from 32.01 to 90.61%. The relationship between the particle size and the discharge requires further studies. The diameter d10, d50 and d90 and a standard deviation were calculated for each flood. Mean values of d50 for individual flood ranged between 41.05 and 191.32 μm with average value of 99.01 μm and average standard deviation of 32.57.
Cloud Physiognomy
Authors: Daston Lorraine
Published: August 2016

After centuries of serving as the metaphor for mutability, clouds began to be classified by genera and species in the nineteenth century, on the model of Linnaean taxonomy. In order to standardize nomenclature, cloud watchers had to learn to see in unison, recognizing cloud types as one would recognize human faces. The analogy between cloud and facial recognition runs deep: in both cases, a few salient features (that aquiline nose, those long wispy streaks) are foregrounded at the expense of a great many others. What the art of caricature is to faces, condensed description was to clouds: a few bold strokes that focused attention on the essential and screened out everything else. Cloud classification depended crucially on description by omission.
The Consistency and Stability of School Effect in Colombian High School Education
Authors: Rodríguez-Jiménez Olga Rosalba
Published: August 2016

Consistency and stability are considered scientific properties of school effect. These properties are important in determining if school effect is constant along subjects and are perdurable during the time. The purpose of this research is to estimate continuity and stability in Colombian high school education during seven years over the past decade for the four main subjects in Colombia: mathematics, language, natural and social science. With this purpose in mind, a retrospective ex post facto study was conducted. The analysis was done for 7, 626 schools and multilevel models of three levels and longitudinal multilevel models were used. As adjusted variables, socio-economic and sociocultural levels and gender of students were used. The school variable was the tuition. The results indicated that the correlation was over 0.39 for all the subjects; the higher correlations were found among language, natural and social science and the school effect showed change along the time for every subject and by the tuition. The Colombian educational system displays consistency within subjects, but its school effect is not stable and is dependent on the socio-economic variable. The paper discusses the implications of these results for the Colombian educational system and the effect for quality and equity, and their relationship with the development of the country.
Turkish Folk Music Phonetic Notation System Datamatrix Characteristics/TFMPNS DC: Urfa Region Sample
Authors: Demir Gonca
Published: August 2016

Datamatrix which was developed by Japanese Denso firm in 1994 is a type of two-dimensional barcode which can be scanned with the digital camera of mobile devices. Datamatrix application which is based on Near Field Communication/NFC was designed for contactless/fast/secure communication between electronic devices in close distances. Thanks to the datamatrix coding system, every kind of limitless content transfer such as information/message/video etc can be done in a limited area. Recorded images are analyzed and barcode content directs users to internet/e-mail address-telephone number-sms/mms/geographical location information. Through datamatrix technology whose existence and utilizability has been verified in various fields, descriptive information can be encoded rapidly and practically. In musical training and education technology as well as in the material and equipment developing process, musicologists have declared that the datamatrix coding system can be used as visual/auditory alternative transfer or adaptation instrument which fulfills the function of making rapid and active connection and communication between physical reality and virtual reality. Any kind of literary and musical texts as well as voice records of Turkish folk music, which is defined as a kind of verbal/artistic performance, can be encoded in the axis of performance theory which is one of the folklore analysis models and linguistical approaches in ethnomusicology.
A checklist of Berberidaceae in Uttarakhand, Western Himalaya, India
Authors: Tiwari Umeshkumar L. , Adhikari Bhupendra Singh , Rawat Gopal Singh
Published: August 2016

In India, Berberidaceae is represented by three genera and 68 species. The largest among genera is Berberis (55 species). Majority of Berberidaceae members are distributed in the Himalayan region. Only four species are found away from the Himalayan region, i.e., Nilgiri hills, Chhota Nagpur and Pachmarhi hills of Madhya Pradesh. Extensive surveys were conducted in various ecoclimatic zones of Uttarakhand between years of 2008 and 2010. For each species encountered, field notes were taken along with the voucher specimen following standard technique. During field survey, field notes, date, locality, habitat and brief identification features were noted. A checklist of 36 taxa of Berberidaceae recorded from the state of Uttarakhand, India, is provided. Of these, 32 belong to genus Berberis and four belong to genus Mahonia. The present study shows that Berberis hamiltoniana Ahrendt and Berberis apiculata Ahrendt are new records for Uttarakhand state. Berberis lambertii Parker has been rediscovered after a century gap. Nomenclature has been updated as far as possible with the help of available recent taxonomic literature.
New records of Grammicolepis brachiusculus Poey, 1873 (Zeiformes: Grammicolepididae) in Brazilian waters, with a key to Western Atlantic species of Grammicolepididae
Authors: Carvalho-Filho Alfredo , Marcovaldi Guy , Ribeiro Flavia Almeida , Paiva Maria Isabel G. , Sampaio Cláudio L. S.
Published: August 2016

Grammicolepis brachiusculus, commonly known as Thorny tinselfish, was previously cited from Brazilian waters, but not thoroughly documented. Here we report about a new record of this species, based on three voucher specimens, 169.2–196.3 mm SL, collected off Bahia, Brazil. This report extends the range of the species southwards for a distance of about 3,500 kilometers along the South American coastline. Given its rarity, an updated diagnosis of the species, and an identification key to the Western Atlantic species of Grammicolepididae, are provided.
Verification of Sargassum natans (Linnaeus) Gaillon (Heterokontophyta: Phaeophyceae) from the Sargasso Sea off the coast of Brazil, western Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Széchy Maria Teresa M. de , Guedes Patrícia M. , Baeta-Neves Maria Helena , Oliveira Eduardo N.
Published: August 2016

The Sargasso Sea, named due to the floating presence of Sargassum fluitans and S. natans, is usually reported for the tropical region of the Northern Hemisphere. On 14 July 2011, at 02°45’ N and 48°28’ W, samples of pelagic seaweed masses were collected by the Patrol Ship Bracuí of the Brazilian Navy. The seaweed was identified as S. natans, previously considered as of doubtful occurrence in Brazil.
Magnoliophyta, Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari, Atacora province, Benin
Authors: Assédé Emeline P. S. , Adomou Aristide C. , Sinsin Brice
Published: August 2016

The Biosphere Reserve of Pendjari is an example of best management practice of protected areas in West Africa with typical Sudanian savanna vegetation. It is part of the vast and transboundary protected areas of W, Pendjari and Arly National Parks of Benin, Burkina Faso and Niger. This work provides an overview of the flora of the reserve by means of a thorough botanical inventory. The plant species composition is typical of Sudanian savanna. We recorded 684 plant species, which were distributed among 366 genera and 89 families. The two most species-rich families were Fabaceae (115) and Poaceae (112). The most important life forms were phanerophytes and therophytes. The chorological spectrum was dominated by Sudanian species. With Ipomoea beninensis Akoègninou, Lisowski and Sinsin, Thunbergia atacorensis Akoègninou and Lisowski and Cissus kouandeensis A.Chev., three endemic species of Benin were recorded, demonstrating the importance of the reserve for plant conservation.
First record of Paratriacanthodes retrospinis Fowler, 1934 (Tetraodontiformes: Triacanthodidae) from India
Authors: Sirajudheen Thayyil K. , Bijukumar Appukuttannair
Published: August 2016

The Sawspine spikefish, Paratriacanthodes retrospinis Fowler, 1934, is reported from Indian waters for the first time, based on specimens collected from Sakthikulangara fishing harbor (08°30’ N, 76°53.3’ E), Kerala, southwest coast of India. Morphometric and meristic characters of the two specimens obtained correspond with those of P. retrospinis published previously.
Tibouchina papyrus (Pohl) Toledo, 1952 (Melastomataceae): distribution extension to the northern part of Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Maracahipes Leandro , Cianciaruso Marcus Vinicius , Lenza Eddie , Pinto José Roberto Rodrigues , Marimon Beatriz Schwantes , Dos Santos Tassiana Reis Rodrigues
Published: August 2016

New records of Tibouchina papyrus for Mato Grosso State extend its distribution in the northern part of the Brazilian Savanna, contributing to the conservation of this species and the areas in which it occur.