bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Merleau-Ponty y el sentido de lo político
Authors: Eiff Leonardo
Published: July 2018

El trabajo se interroga por el sentido de lo político en el pensamiento de Merleau-Ponty. Con este objetivo, toma tres escritos señeros que permiten comprender dicha interrogación. El análisis de tales escritos (Lectura de Montaigne, Nota sobre Maquiavelo y el prólogo a Humanismo y terror) da cuenta del núcleo de la filosofía política merleau-pontyana más allá de las habituales periodizaciones a la que es sometida el conjunto de su obra. Ese núcleo condensa una noción de lo político como contingencia y conflicto de raíz maquiaveliana que dialoga críticamente con la tradición marxista. Por otra parte, el trabajo concluye con la hipótesis acerca de que las reflexiones merleau-pontyanas sobre lo político se nutren de un concepto de humanismo que se sustrae a la visión heideggeriana del mismo para enmarcarse en la saga republicana del humanismo político.
Die Zukunft der Stadt entscheidet sich auch an der Wohnungspolitik: Sozial-ökologische Dimensionen des Wohnens
Authors: Betker Frank
Published: July 2018

Wie kaum ein anderes politisches Handlungsfeld in Deutschland steht die Wohnungspolitik unter sozialem und ökologischem Druck. Auch wenn Neubauten heute weniger Energie verbrauchen ‐ eine entscheidende Frage ist, wie der ältere Gebäudebestand klimaneutral umgebaut
werden kann, ohne zugleich soziale Verdrängungseffekte zu erzeugen. Zudem muss geklärt werden, wie das Wohnen auch für untere und mittlere Einkommensgruppen wieder erschwinglicher wird.1
Forschung und Gesellschaft: Von theoretischer und praktischer Transdisziplinarität
Authors: Mittelstraß Jürgen
Published: July 2018

Reaktion auf W.Krohn et al. in GAIA 26/4 (2017): Transdisziplinäre Forschung revisited
Posttraumatic Pneumopericardium: A Sign of Severe Injury or Radiodiagnostic Rarity?
Authors: Lonský Vladimír , Manďák Jiří , Harrer Jan , Tuna Martin , Dvořák Petr , Dědek Tomáš , Dominik Jan
Published: July 2018

We present three cases of pneumopericardium following blunt chest trauma injury. All three patients were victims of road traffic accidents. All had multiple associated injuries and pneumopericardium was found as the additional finding. Pneumopericardium was treated conservatively with thoracic drains placement and patients observation. Transesophageal echocardiography was used as a method of choice for exclusion of cardiac air tamponade. All three patients survived.
Personalization 2.0? – Testing the personalization hypothesis in citizens’, journalists’, and politicians’ campaign Twitter communication
Authors: Otto Lukas P. , Glogger Isabella , Maier Michaela
Published: July 2018

This paper advances the research on personalization of political communication by investigating whether this process of focusing on politicians instead of political issues plays a role on Twitter. Results of a content analysis of 5,530 tweets posted in the run-up to the German federal election provide evidence that Twitter communication refers more often to politicians than to issues. However, tweets containing personal characteristics about political leaders play only a marginal role. When distinguishing among different groups of actors on Twitter (journalists, politicians, citizens), we find that citizens focus more on candidates than do journalists or politicians. Investigating the impact of a televised debate on Twitter communication, we observe that this person-centered event puts the focus on individual politicians instead of issues.
Stochastic comparisons and bounds for conditional distributions by using copula properties
Authors: Navarro Jorge , Sordo Miguel A.
Published: July 2018

We prove that different conditional distributions can be represented as distorted distributions. These representations are used to obtain stochastic comparisons and bounds for them based on properties of the underlying copula. These properties can be used to explain the meaning of mathematical properties of copulas connecting them with dependence concepts. Some applications and illustrative examples are provided as well.
Biological and medical applications of plasma-activated media, water and solutions
Authors: Kaushik Nagendra Kumar , Ghimire Bhagirath , Li Ying , Adhikari Manish , Veerana Mayura , Kaushik Neha , Jha Nayansi , Adhikari Bhawana , Lee Su-Jae , Masur Kai , von Woedtke Thomas , Weltmann Klaus-Dieter , Choi Eun Ha
Published: July 2018

Non-thermal atmospheric pressure plasma has been proposed as a new tool for various biological and medical applications. Plasma in close proximity to cell culture media or water creates reactive oxygen and nitrogen species containing solutions known as plasma-activated media (PAM) or plasma-activated water (PAW) – the latter even displays acidification. These plasma-treated solutions remain stable for several days with respect to the storage temperature. Recently, PAM and PAW have been widely studied for many biomedical applications. Here, we reviewed promising reports demonstrating plasma-liquid interaction chemistry and the application of PAM or PAW as an anti-cancer, anti-metastatic, antimicrobial, regenerative medicine for blood coagulation and even as a dental treatment agent. We also discuss the role of PAM on cancer initiation cells (spheroids or cancer stem cells), on the epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), and when used for metastasis inhibition considering its anticancer effects. The roles of PAW in controlling plant disease, seed decontamination, seed germination and plant growth are also considered in this review. Finally, we emphasize the future prospects of PAM, PAW or plasma-activated solutions in biomedical applications with a discussion of the mechanisms and the stability and safety issues in relation to humans.
Inhibition of JAK2/STAT3 signaling suppresses bone marrow stromal cells proliferation and osteogenic differentiation, and impairs bone defect healing
Authors: Yu Xin , Li Zhi , Wan Qilong , Cheng Xin , Zhang Jing , Pathak Janak L. , Li Zubing
Published: July 2018

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) undergo osteogenic differentiation during bone defect healing. However, the role of JAK2/STAT3 in the osteogenic differentiation of MSCs and bone defect healing is still not fully understood. In this study, we aimed to analyze the effect of AG490, a JAK2-specific inhibitor, on MSCs proliferation and osteogenic differentiation as well as in bone defect healing. We used AG490 to inhibit the JAK2/STAT3 signaling in a mice bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) culture. AG490 inhibited BMSCs proliferation and osteogenic differentiation markers, i.e. Col1α, Alp and Ocn expression in mRNA and protein levels. Inhibition of JAK2 reduced ALP activity and matrix mineralization in BMSCs culture. Inhibition of JAK2 reduced phosphorylation of STAT3, AKT, P38, and JNK phosphorylation. Immunohistochemistry showed high numbers of pJAK2, pSTAT3 and ALP positive cells and AG490 reduced this effect in vivo. Histology and μ-computed tomography (CT) data showed that AG490 treatment inhibits bone regeneration and bone defect healing. Our results clearly showed the inhibitory effect of AG490 on proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs, bone regeneration and bone defect healing. Moreover, AG490 inhibited phosphorylation of STAT3, P38, JNK and AKT. This suggests the possible role of JAK2/STAT3 signaling in hypoxia-induced osteogenic differentiation of MSCs and bone defect healing.
Red blood cell counts and indices in the elderly German population
Authors: Röhrig Gabriele , Becker Ingrid , Gutensohn Kai , Nebe Thomas
Published: July 2018

Background

Data on peripheral blood cell values in older subjects are rare. While hemoglobin (Hb) values are supposed to change with rising age, little is known about reference values for other erythrocytic blood cell counts. This cross-sectional study was initiated to analyze hematologic laboratory parameters among subjects aged ≥60 years.

Methods

This was a retrospective cross-sectional study of outpatient laboratory data between January 1stand December 31st, 2015 originating from a German countrywide laboratory group; inclusion criteria: age ≥60 years, normal C-reactive protein (CRP), transferrin saturation, reticulocytes, lactate dehydrogenase, haptoglobin and soluble transferrin receptor; exclusion criteria: glomerular filtration rate (GFR)<60 mL/min, lack of inclusion criteria; primary objective: assessment of the mean Hb value; secondary objective: assessment of mean values of red blood cell (RBC) counts.

Results

Of 30,611 subjects ≥60 years, 4641 met the inclusion criteria and were thus considered hematologically healthy; the following age groups were formed: 60–69 years (2094), 70–79 years (2171), 80–89 years (360), >90 years (16); median values for male/female subjects were: Hb 15.2/14.0 g/dL, RBC 5.0/4.6/μL, mean cellular volume (MCV) 89/89/fl, mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) 31/30 pg/RBC, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (MCHC) 34/34 g/dL, hematocrit (hct) 44/41%. Statistical evaluation revealed a slight but significant decrease in values over age decades for all parameters except for MCH. However, all values remained within the recommended German Society of Hematology and Oncology (DGHO) reference ranges. Hb values remained above the recommended World Health Organization (WHO) cut-offs for definition of anemia.

Conclusions

The results confirm the WHO reference values and are in accordance with the recommended DGHO reference values and previous results of other study cohorts outside Germany. There seems to be no need for establishing age-specific RBC or erythrocytic reference ranges for subjects >60 years.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in patients with late life depression influences phenylalanine metabolism
Authors: Leblhuber F , Steiner K , Gostner Jm , Fuchs D
Published: July 2018

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is used to treat different neuropsychiatric conditions like Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, stroke, cognitive decline, dementia and depression. rTMS may exert its therapeutic effects by influencing the biochemistry of neurotransmitters. In this exploratory study, safety symptom improvement and changes in the availability of neurotransmitter precursor amino acids were studied following prefrontal cortex (PFC) stimulation using repetitive transcranial stimulation with TheraCell apparatus R (Guth Meditec, Salach, Germany) as an additional treatment in ten patients with late life depression. Treatment was well tolerated with no serious adverse effects being observed. rTMS induced a significant improvement in the symptoms of depression and a significant decrease in the HAMD-7 (p <0.03). At the same time, the serum phenylalanine to tyrosine ratio declined significantly (p <0.04). No significant influence of rTMS on tryptophan breakdown and serum neopterin concentrations was observed. These preliminary findings indicate that rTMS may influence the activity of the enzyme phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH) which plays a key role in the biosynthesis of neurotransmitter precursors related to neuropsychiatric symptoms in late life depression. However, results were obtained from only 10 patients. Larger studies are therefore required to support these conclusions
Planning, Evaluation and Financing of Transport Infrastructures: Rethinking the Basics
Authors: de Rus Ginés , Socorro M. Pilar
Published: July 2018

This paper revises some of the common views on transport infrastructure investment and proposes alternative ways to achieve a more efficient planning, evaluation and financing of transport infrastructures in a world where planners may pursue their own interests, there exist different levels of government, and budget constraints are pervasive. We focus on the need for public planning and independent economic evaluation, and the importance of deciding the pricing scheme in the planning phase. We also discuss the institutional design and its effect on investment decisions, particularly, the financing of projects under different levels of government and its perverse consequences on infrastructure capacity choices. We use as an example the development of the HSR to serve medium-distance trips in corridors where air transport is a very close substitute.
Improvement of delta-endotoxin production from local Bacillus thuringiensis Se13 using Taguchi’s orthogonal array methodology
Authors: Eski Ardahan , Demirbağ Zihni , Demir İsmail
Published: July 2018

Objective

The insecticidal activity of Bacillus thuringiensis directly depends on the yield of delta-endotoxins. In this study, various nutritional and cultural parameters influencing delta-endotoxin synthesis by a local isolate of B. thuringiensis Se13 were investigated using Taguchi methods.

Methods

In the first experiment, four factors, incubation period, incubation temperature, initial pH and medium, each at four levels, were selected and an orthogonal array layout of L16 was carried out. In the second experiment, Taguchi’s orthogonal array method of L27 was used to evaluate the effects of the different concentration of medium components. Taguchi’s signal–noise ratio and variance analysis were applied to determine the effect of the factors. After each experiment, verification studies were carried out using determined optimum conditions.

Results

The optimum conditions for incubation period, incubation temperature, initial pH, and medium determined as 72 h, 30°C, pH 9, and M4 medium, respectively. In the second experiment, soybean flour (5%), glucose (5%), KH2PO4 (0.3%), K2HPO4 (0.1%), MgSO4 (0.4%) were determined as the optimum conditions. The delta-endotoxin yield was elevated to 1559.25 μg mL−1 when the factors were adjusted to optimum level.

Conclusion

Optimization using the Taguchi method appeared to be a good choice for the overproduction of delta-endotoxin.
Estrategias para la integración de Sistemas de Gestión de Calidad y Sistemas de Gestión Documental, en una institución de educación superior
Authors: Moreno Rodriguez Ingrid Carolina
Published: July 2018

Este artículo presenta los resultados de una investigación orientada a identificar la integración y trabajo colaborativo que puede existir desde las dos áreas que gestionan información en una IES, Sistema de Gestión de Calidad (ISO 9001) y Gestión Documental, facilitando la integración de metodologías, el cumplimiento de la normativa tanto interna como externa, optimización de recursos y consolidación de planes de mejoramiento. Se estudian los antecedentes que permiten contextualizar la investigación e identificar los ámbitos en los cuales se han presentado propuestas de integración de estos dos modelos de gestión. Posteriormente, a través de la revisión teórica, se abordan los ejes más representativos, encontrándose que la composición de estrategias se da a partir de concebir planes (objetivos), metas y políticas (categorías). Una vez definida la metodología de estudio a través de un enfoque cualitativo, se aplica como instrumento de recolección de información las entrevistas, seleccionando un grupo de individuos que hacen parte del Sistema de Gestión de Calidad de la institución y expertos en gestión documental, se analizan los resultados obtenidos en la aplicación del instrumento desde el enfoque de las mencionadas categorías, para finalmente formular las estrategias de integración.
In this Issue
Authors: Badea Radu
Published: July 2018

-
Pengaruh Loneliness, Self-Control, Dan Self Esteem Terhadap Perilaku Cyberbullying Pada Mahasiswa
Authors: Anwarsyah Fadhli , Gazi Gazi
Published: July 2018

This research aims to determine the effect of loneliness, self-control, self-esteem against cyberbullying to UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta student. Researchers used quantitative approach with multiple regression analysis techniques. Population and sample of this research was a UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta student. The sampling used non-probability technique that involved 261 students. The measuring instrument was adapted from a scale of cyberbullying as a theory Williard, UCLA Loneliness Scale (UCLA-LS), a measuring instrument was adapted from the scale of self-control as a theory Averill, The Rosenberg Self-esteem Scale. The results of this research showed that loneliness of self-control and self-esteem significantly affect cyberbullying with contribution 23%. There are four variables that significantly affect the cyberbullying that trait loneliness, depression, loneliness, cognitive control, and decisional control. While social desirability variable loneliness, behavioral control and self-esteem were not significant. DOI: 10.15408/tazkiya.v22i2.8401
The Effect Of Attachment Style And Religiousity Toward Dating Violence Among Adolescent
Authors: Purnomo Farah Hanifa , Suryadi Bambang , Suryadi Bambang
Published: July 2018

On adolescence, there are some changes that occur. One of them is emotionally changes that causing the interest feeling with opposite sex emerge. In this era, dating on adolescent is not a new thing. However, the impacts of dating become more serious. One of them is dating violence amongst adolescent couples. The objective of this study is to examine the effect of attachment style, religiousity and gender toward dating violence among adolescent. Samples are 209 students which were taken with convenience technique. The three scales that used in this study are dating violence scale, religiousity scale, and attachment style scale. Their validities are examined by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Meanwhile, the method that used is multiple regression. Findings were consistent with previous research. The findings show that religiousity, attachment style and gender has significant effect toward dating violence among adolescent. All of the independent variabels have implication about 10,5%, and the others were affected by variables outside the research. After the proportion variance were analyzed, the results show that fearful avoidant, which is dimension of attachment style, and gender are the biggest predictors toward dating violence. For better result, we suggest to use bigger sample size. DOI: 10.15408/tazkiya.v22i2.8404
Pengaruh Self Efficacy Dan Dukungan Sosial Terhadap Optimisme Karyawan Kontrak Uin Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta
Authors: Hara Sundus , Baidun Akhmad
Published: July 2018

This study was conducted to determine the factors that affect optimism on employee contract, that involved 217 contract employees of UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta. Nonprobability sampling was used as sampling technique. Instruments in this study using an adaptation of optimism scale which is Life Orientation test- revised , and a modified scale of Generl Self Efficacy Scale, and the last one is adaptation of social support scale from Weiss (at Cutrona, 1987). While the method of analysis using multiple regression by SPSS software, Lisrel was used for construct validity testing. The result showed that there was a significant effect of self efficacy variables (innitiative, effort, and persistence) and social support (attachment, social integration, reassurance of worth, reliable alliance, guidance, and opportunity for nurturance) to optimism on contract employees. Although it was found that the results showed from nine independent variables there is only six independent variable that significantly affects the optimism of the contract employees was innitiative, effort, persistence, attachment, social integration and reliable alliance. DOI:10.15408/tazkiya.v22i2.8407
Integrating Psychological Screening Into Medical Care for Youth With Abdominal Pain
Authors: Cunningham Natoshia R. , Moorman Erin , Brown Courtney M. , Mallon Daniel , Chundi Pavan K. , Mara Constance A. , Pentiuk Scott , Lynch-Jordan Anne M. , Dykes Dana M.H. , Elfers Julie , Farrell Michael K.
Published: July 2018

BACKGROUND:

Pediatric functional abdominal pain disorders are common, costly, and disabling. Clinical anxiety is highly prevalent and is associated with increased pain and functional disability. Thus, a psychological screening process is recommended but is infrequently used in current practice.

METHODS:

A screening process for patient-reported anxiety (Screen for Child Anxiety and Related Disorders), functional disability (Functional Disability Inventory), and pain levels was implemented in a large gastroenterology division within a major medical center. Quality improvement methods and traditional analytic approaches were used to test the feasibility and outcomes of routine screening in patients ages 8 to 18 with abdominal pain.

RESULTS:

Screening rates increased from <1% to >80%. A total of 1291 patients who reported having abdominal pain completed the screening during the first 6 months. Clinically significant anxiety (43.1%), at least moderate disability (45%), and elevated pain (61.5%) were common in children with abdominal pain. The presence of clinically significant anxiety corresponded with higher pain and pain-related disability. Twenty-one percent of youth had clinical elevations in all 3 areas. In such instances, medical providers received an automated prompt to tailor care, including to consider a psychological referral. After the project implementation, psychological referral rates increased from 8.3 per 1000 patients to 15.2 per 1000 patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

Systematic screening for anxiety, pain, and pain-related disability as a routine part of medical care can be reliably implemented with clinically meaningful results. Future directions include examining the role of anxiety over the long-term and reducing clinician burden.
Direct method for construction of prosthetic bite opening and positioning stents for head and neck tumor radiotherapy
Authors: Filho Luiz Cesar da Costa , Almeida Jr. Wilson José de , Curra Marina , Stahlschmidt Rosemarie Franzkowiak , Barletta Daniela Vargas , Frasca Luis Carlos Da Fontoura
Published: July 2018

INTRODUCTION: Radiotherapy for head and neck tumors causes a series of adverse effects. Some effects are temporary, such as oral mucositis and taste disorders, and others are permanent, such as xerostomia and increased risk for dental caries and osteoradionecrosis. One way to diminish radiotherapy’s adverse effects is to decrease the radiation dose on healthy tissues outside the tumor area through more precise radiotherapy techniques, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), which depends on positioners and stabilizers to the anatomic structures.CASE REPORT: This paper presents direct construction technique examples of mouth openers and positioning stents for tongue and mandible, which allow distance from the radiation field for healthy organs as well the precise stabilization required for the IMRT technique.CONCLUSION: The clinical cases shown in the present paper also illustrate that the intra-oral devices for stabilization of the dental arches and tongue are effective in reducing unnecessary radiation on healthy organs.
Perceptions of Pedagogical Formation Program Students of Social Network Concept / Shvaćanje pojma društvenih mreža kod studenata programa pedagoškog obrazovanja
Authors: Çaka Cansu , Kurt Adile Aşkım
Published: July 2018

AbstractThe aim of the present study is to reveal the perceptions of pedagogical formation program students of the concept of social networks through metaphors. The study was conducted with 70 students attending the pedagogical formation program at Anadolu University. Study data were collected with the data collection tool that included a demographic information survey and the following phrase: “A social network is like ........., because .........” The students’ perceptions of the concept of social network were analyzed with the content analysis technique. The Cramer’s V test was used to examine the relationship between gender and the department of graduation and the students’ perceptions of the concept of social network. As a result of the study, a total of 44 valid metaphors produced by the pedagogical formation program students on the social network concept were classified as eight conceptual categories. In the study, it was observed that “communication tool”, “world” and “infectious disease” were the most produced metaphors on the concept of social network, the produced metaphors did not differ based on gender and department, and the perception of the concept of social network generally concentrated on positive categories.Key words: metaphor; social network; teacher training certificate program.---SažetakCilj je ovog istraživanja prikazati način na koji studenti programa pedagoškog obrazovanja shvaćaju pojam društvenih mreža s pomoću metafora. Istraživanje je provedeno na uzorku od 70 studenata koji su pohađali program pedagoškog obrazovanja na Sveučilištu Anadolu. Podatci za istraživanje prikupljeni su s pomoću alata koji je uključivao anketu o demografskim podatcima i sljedeći izraz: „Društvena mreža je poput…, jer ….“ Različiti načini shvaćanja pojma društvenih mreža kod studenata analizirani su primjenom tehnike analize sadržaja. Cramerov V test koristio se kako bi se ispitala veza između spola i odsjeka na kojem studenti studiraju, i njihovo shvaćanje pojma društvenih mreža. Kao rezultat istraživanja dobivene su ukupno 44 valjane metafore koje su o pojmu društvenih mreža naveli studenti programa pedagoškog obrazovanja. One su grupirane u osam konceptualnih kategorija. U istraživanju je primijećeno da su najčešće korištene metafore o pojmu društvenih mreža bile: „komunikacijski alat“, „svijet“ i „zarazna bolest“. Te se metafore nisu razlikovale s obzirom na spol ispitanika i odsjek na kojemu su studirali, a  njihovo shvaćanje pojma društvenih mreža uglavnom je bilo usmjereno prema pozitivnim kategorijama.Ključne riječi: metafora; društvena mreža; izobrazba nastavnika.
A novel hydrogel scaffold for periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Nagy Krisztina , Láng Orsolya , Láng Júlia , Perczel-Kovách Katalin , Gyulai-Gaál Szabolcs , Kádár Kristóf , Kőhidai László , Varga Gábor
Published: July 2018

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) possess extensive regeneration potential. However, their therapeutic application demands a scaffold with appropriate properties. HydroMatrix (HydM) is a novel injectable peptide nanofiber hydrogel developed recently for cell culture. Our aim was to test whether HydM would be a suitable scaffold for proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. PDLSCs were seeded on non-coated or HydM-coated surfaces. Both real-time impedance analysis and cell viability assay documented cell growth on HydM. PDLSCs showed healthy, fibroblast-like morphology on the hydrogel. After a 3-week-long culture in osteogenic medium, mineralization was much more intense in HydM cultures compared to control. Alkaline phosphatase activity of the cells grown on the gels reached the non-coated control levels. Our data provided evidence that PDLSCs can adhere, survive, migrate, and proliferate on HydM and this gel also supports their osteogenic differentiation. We first applied impedimetry for dental stem cells cultured on a scaffold. HydM is ideal for in vitro studies of PDLSCs. It may also serve not only as a reference material but also in the future as a promising biocompatible scaffold for preclinical studies.
Efficacy of second-trimester termination procedure; medical, mechanic, or combine?
Authors: Yüce Tuncay , Yüksel Dilek , Kalafat Erkan , Koç Acar
Published: July 2018

Objectives

During mid-trimester, it is necessary to terminate pregnancy due to some fetal anomalies and intrauterine death. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to compare abortion induction methods and combined use retrospectively.

Methods

About 112 out of 223 pregnant patients were included in the study. The groups were determined as follows: Group 1 including pregnant patients who were administered misoprostol only (50 patients), Group 2 including pregnant patients who were administered single dose misoprostol (according to FIGO) and subsequently received cervical Foley catheter (30 patients), and Group 3 including pregnant patients who received Foley catheter only (32 patients). These three groups were compared in terms of effectiveness of the method, side effects, and complications as well as their characteristics.

Results

In terms of characteristic of the groups, the average age of the women in the Group 1 was significantly higher than other two groups (p < 0.001). In terms of effectiveness of the method, the termination period in Groups 1 and 2 was significantly lower than Group 3 (p < 0.001). However, in terms of complications, it was observed that uterine rupture was developed in Group 1.

Conclusions

Although medical methods may seem to be more effective in the process of termination, mechanical methods seem more reliable in terms of reliability. Especially combined methods can be used to increase effectiveness and also to reduce complications.
Reducing Free Riding Behaviour in Collaborative Work with Computer Supported Tools
Authors: Kloppenburg Wieger , Nurlatifah Eva , Spijkerboer Christian , Yasmin Fitri Almira
Published: July 2018

Free riding behaviour is a problem that has been around for many years. With all the new technological advances, there is much more collaborative work supported by online tools. These developments make it easier for individuals to become a free rider. This research carried out a literature study, to find the best method to reduce free-riding behaviour. Besides the methods, this study also elaborates some factors that trigger free riders in a group. The methods which are highlighted in this research are the implementation of assessments, group awareness tools, sufficient group size and enhancing team morale. However, the study found that none of the methods cover all the aspects of free-riding behaviour. It is suggested by this research to combine and improve various methods, to a new method that can effectively reduce free-riding behaviour in collaborative work with computer-supported tools.
An Improved ABC Algorithm for Energy Management of Microgrid
Authors: Gao Ren , Wu Juebo , Hu Wen , Zhang Yun
Published: July 2018

Microgrids are an ideal way of electricity generation, distribution, and regulation for customers by means of distributed energy resources on the community level. However, due to the randomness of photovoltaic and wind power generation, it is a crucial and difficult problem to achieve optimal economic dispatch in microgrids. In this paper, we present an optimal economic dispatch solution for a microgrid by the improved artificial bee colony (ABC) optimization, with the aim of satisfying load and balance demand while minimizing the cost of power generation and gas emission. Firstly, we construct a mathematical model according to different characteristics of distributed generation units and loads, and improve the performance of global convergence for ABC in order to fit such model. Secondly, we explore how to solve the optimal economic dispatch problem by the improved ABC and give the essential steps. Thirdly, we carry out several simulations and the results illustrate the benefits and effectiveness of the proposed approach for optimal economic dispatch in microgrid.
Trajectory Tracking Control for Seafloor Tracked Vehicle By Adaptive Neural-Fuzzy Inference System Algorithm
Authors: Dai Yu , Zhu Xiang , Zhou Haibo , Mao Zuoli , Wu Wei
Published: July 2018

Trajectory tracking control strategy and algorithm for the tracked vehicle moving on the seafloor has aroused much concerns due to the commonly occurred serious slip and trajectory deviation caused by the seafloor extremely soft and cohesive sediment. An improved multi-body dynamic model of a seafloor tracked vehicle (STV) has been established in a simulation code RecurDyn/Track. A particular terramechanics model with a dynamic shear displacement expression for the vehicle-sediment interaction has been built and integrated into the multi-body dynamic model. The collaborative simulation between the mechanical multi-body dynamic model in Recur- Dyn/Track and the control model in MATLAB/Simulink has been achieved. Different control algorithms performances including a PID control, a fuzzy control and a neural control, have been compared and proved the traditional or individual intelligent controls are not particularly suitable for the tracked vehicle on the seafloor. Consequently, an adaptive neural-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) control algorithm with hybrid learning method for parameter learning which is an integrated control method combined with the fuzzy and neural control, has been adopted and designed. A series of collaborative simulations have been performed and proved the ANFIS algorithm can achieve a better trajectory tracking control performance for the STV as its trajectory deviation can be maintained within a permissible range.
A Simulation Based Analysis of an Multi Objective Diffusive Load Balancing Algorithm
Authors: Mironescu Ion Dan , Vinţan Lucian
Published: July 2018

In this paper, we presented a further development of our research on developing an optimal software-hardware mapping framework. We used the Petri Net model of the complete hardware and software High Performance Computing (HPC) system running a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) application, to simulate the behaviour of the proposed diffusive two level multi-objective load-balancing algorithm. We developed an meta-heuristic algorithm for generating an approximation of the Pareto-optimal set to be used as reference. The simulations showed the advantages of this algorithm over other diffusive algorithms: reduced computational and communication overhead and robustness due to low dependence on uncertain data. The algorithm also had the capacity to handle unpredictable events as a load increase due to domain refinement or loss of a computation resource due to malfunction.
Wind Power in Girau do Ponciano, Alagoas, Brazil Using Anemometric Data and Microscale Modeling
Authors: Ramos Diogo Nunes da Silva , Lyra Roberto Fernando da Fonseca , Silva Júnior Rosiberto Salustiano da , Segundo Geórgenes Hilário Cavalcante , Lopes Gerson Ernesto Varela
Published: July 2018

Abstract The wind potential in the Agreste region of Northeastern Brazil has important features for energy exploration, but, stills unexplored. This work analyzes 3.1 yrs anemometer tower measurements in the Girau do Ponciano, Alagoas state. The observational data was recorded from October 2007 to October 2010. Three periods were defined to constrain the seasonal wind patterns: Annual, Dry (October-January) and Wet (May-August). Hourly and monthly series showed the average wind speed was higher than 7 m s-1, reaching 8.5 m s-1 during the dry season. Further, the wind direction was also favorable with less variability, concentrated between NE and SE. During nighttime the wind speed ≥ 10 m s-1 were more frequent. The Weibull fit is more distributed (concentrated) during the dry (wet) season close to 8 m s-1 (7 m s-1). The AEP (Cf) parameter estimated by the WAsP model varied between 3 to 10 GWh (35% to 65%). Nevertheless, Girau do Ponciano domain was positioned nearby two highways and close to an electrical substation in the Arapiraca city. Other geographic conditions (topography inclination < 15°, the absence of obstacles, and low vegetation) are also favorable to future wind farm installation in this area.
Cropping systems on root rot and soybean seed yield
Authors: Maier Maira , Souza Clovis Arruda , Casa Ricardo Trezzi
Published: July 2018

ABSTRACT: Root rot (RR), which can occur in different cropping systems, affects soybean seed yield. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of RR in soybean crop systems and its relationship with soybean yield. The study was carried out for two growing seasons in a no-till system consisting of four soybean crop systems: soybean-oat+soybean-oat, soybean-maize+soybean-maize, soybean-wheat+soybean-wheat and soybean-pasture+soybean-pasture. Data were submitted to Pearson’s correlation. Incidence of RR, mainly charcoal rot and sudden death, was more than 50% in soybean roots for all the soybean crop systems and consequently decreased yield by around 22kg ha-1 of seed for every 1% increase in RR. Root rot led to a decline in seed yield from 20 to 102kg ha-1 in the first season and 9 to 32kg ha-1 in the second season, considering all the cropping systems. Soybean + pasture was the lowest productive system, with a negative RR impact of 74.9 and 32.9kg ha-1 in the first and second season, respectively.
La integración de las TIC en los procesos educativos y organizativos
Authors: Castel Ana Felicitas Gargallo
Published: July 2018

RESUMEN El ámbito educativo ha incorporado gradualmente las oportunidades ofrecidas por las Tecnologías de la Información y Comunicación (TIC). Si bien este dato resulta positivo, desde el punto de vista organizativo, es necesario complementar la implantación de las TIC con una estrategia global e integradora que aporte coherencia entre los aspectos puramente tecnológicos y los modelos educativos, para alcanzar resultados superiores. El presente trabajo ofrece una revisión de la importancia de las TIC en el ámbito educativo, centrando la atención en la necesidad de ajuste estratégico en el contexto universitario, como elemento de mejora en la adaptación a las necesidades competitivas de las universidades. Para alcanzar este objetivo, se lleva a cabo una revisión de la literatura sobre las TIC y su impacto, se resumen las principales recomendaciones para su óptima utilización en el proceso de enseñanza aprendizaje y se ofrece una reflexión sobre el papel estratégico de estas herramientas.
Meritocracia neoliberal e capitalismo financeiro: implicações para a proteção social e a saúde
Authors: Viana Ana Luiza d’Ávila , Silva Hudson Pacifico da
Published: July 2018

Resumo Existe uma tensão inerente à ideia de saúde como direito social e de saúde como bem econômico e individual, na medida em que esta ultima aproxima a prestação de serviços de saúde da lógica proprietária, cujo acesso depende da capacidade de pagamento de cada indivíduo ou família. A preferência por mercados (sobre os governos), incentivos econômicos (sobre normas sociais ou culturais) e empreendedorismo individual (sobre a ação coletiva ou comunitária) é uma característica marcante do neoliberalismo e, por isso mesmo, um projeto de desmonte do estado social, definido como um conjunto de dispositivos que visam atender às necessidades coletivas. O objetivo do artigo é examinar esse processo e suas implicações para a proteção social e a saúde, mediante algumas reflexões sobre dois fenômenos que ameaçam a saúde como direito social: as ideias e as políticas neoliberais, de um lado, e a financeirização da riqueza, de outro. Argumentamos que o bem comum precisa ser defendido ou insulado tanto da devassa provocada pelo capital financeiro quanto pela erosão e fragmentação provocada pelo neoliberalismo nas instituições públicas e nos sistemas de proteção social.
Degeneración, criminalidad y heredo-alcoholismo en Colombia, primera mitad del siglo XX
Authors: Vásquez María Fernanda
Published: July 2018

Resumen Este artículo analiza a partir de algunas tesis médicas, artículos científicos y debates producidos durante las tres primeras décadas del siglo XX en Colombia cómo el discurso médico objetivó el alcoholismo como un “estado mórbido”, estrechamente vinculado con la criminalidad y las enfermedades mentales. La apropiación de la teoría de la degeneración permitió que médicos, higienistas y criminólogos comprendieran el alcoholismo como una patología, una anormalidad, un instinto y un vicio innato que producía efectos fatales sobre la población y sus generaciones. Un discurso que permitió evaluar e intervenir la diferencia en un momento histórico, especialmente preocupado por el capital humano como parte del progreso del país.
Influencia de los tratamientos térmicos en recubrimientos anódicos nanotubulares de TiO2
Authors: Vera María Laura , Henrikson Edgard Rubén , Traid Hernán Darío , Ares Alicia Esther , Litter Marta Irene
Published: July 2018

RESUMEN El TiO2 es un semiconductor ampliamente utilizado en el proceso de fotocatálisis heterogénea para la descontaminación de aguas. Diversos estudios indican que las estructuras ordenadas de nanotubos en fase anatasa mejoran las propiedades fotocatalíticas del material con respecto a otras morfologías y estructuras de TiO2. El objetivo del presente trabajo es evaluar la influencia de diferentes tratamientos térmicos sobre la integridad y estructura cristalina de recubrimientos nanotubulares de TiO2 obtenidos mediante la técnica de oxidación anódica. Para la oxidación se utilizó como electrolito una solución de 0,6% p/p de fluoruro de amonio y 3,5% p/p de agua en etilenglicol. Se hizo circular corriente continua a un voltaje constante de 45 V durante 2 h. Luego de la oxidación anódica, se realizaron tratamientos térmicos de 2 h y 4 h a 450, 550 y 650 °C, con rampa de calentamiento de 10 ºC/min. Se caracterizó la morfología y la estructura cristalina de los recubrimientos mediante microscopía electrónica de barrido y difracción de rayos X, respectivamente. Se obtuvieron recubrimientos nanotubulares de TiO2 de 85 nm de diámetro interior, 18 nm de espesor de pared y 7 ?m de longitud (valores promedio), que mantuvieron su integridad estructural sin cambio en las dimensiones con los tratamientos térmicos aplicados. Sin embargo, la morfología de las paredes de los nanotubos se fue modificando con el tiempo y la temperatura de los tratamientos térmicos, evidenciándose la formación de cristales de anatasa. Incluso a partir de 550 ºC se observaron depósitos nanocristalinos de anatasa sobre la cara exterior de la pared de los nanotubos. En cuanto a la estructura cristalina, los recubrimientos resultaron amorfos previamente a los tratamientos térmicos y cristalinos en fase anatasa luego de los mismos, indicando la estabilización de esta fase incluso hasta los 650 ºC, temperatura a la que apareció la fase rutilo.
Modern timber construction technology and engineering applications in China
Authors: Li Zheng , Zhou Ruirui , He Minjuan , Sun Xiaofeng
Published: July 2018

In the past two decades, increasing attention has been paid to using and researching structural timber in China. Imported dimension timber, glued-laminated timber and cross-laminated timber have recently been used to build homes, schools, shopping malls and stadiums, and substantial research has been undertaken on novel timber-based hybrid structures. This paper reviews the development of modern timber construction technologies and their engineering applications in China. Case studies of light timber-frame structures, glued-laminated timber structures, large-span timber structures and timber-based hybrid structures are provided. Future opportunities and challenges for the application of timber structures in China are discussed.
Association of Ambulatory Blood Pressure with All-Cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients: Effects of Heart Failure and Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Mayer Christopher C. , Matschkal Julia , Sarafidis Pantelis A. , Hagmair Stefan , Lorenz Georg , Angermann Susanne , Braunisch Matthias C. , Baumann Marcus , Heemann Uwe , Wassertheurer Siegfried , Schmaderer Christoph
Published: July 2018

Background

Evidence on the utility of ambulatory BP monitoring for risk prediction has been scarce and inconclusive in patients on hemodialysis. In addition, in cardiac diseases such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation (common among patients on hemodialysis), studies have found that parameters such as systolic BP (SBP) and pulse pressure (PP) have inverse or nonlinear (U-shaped) associations with mortality.

Methods

In total, 344 patients on hemodialysis (105 with atrial fibrillation, heart failure, or both) underwent ambulatory BP monitoring for 24 hours, starting before a dialysis session. The primary end point was all-cause mortality; the prespecified secondary end point was cardiovascular mortality. We performed linear and nonlinear Cox regression analyses for risk prediction to determine the associations between BP and study end points.

Results

During the mean 37.6-month follow-up, 115 patients died (47 from a cardiovascular cause). SBP and PP showed a U-shaped association with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in the cohort. In linear subgroup analysis, SBP and PP were independent risk predictors and showed a significant inverse relationship to all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in patients with atrial fibrillation or heart failure. In patients without these conditions, these associations were in the opposite direction. SBP and PP were significant independent risk predictors for cardiovascular mortality; PP was a significant independent risk predictor for all-cause mortality.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence for the U-shaped association between peripheral ambulatory SBP or PP and mortality in patients on hemodialysis. Furthermore, it suggests that underlying cardiac disease can explain the opposite direction of associations.
Okul Öncesi Öğretmenliği Lisans Programında Yer Alan “Öğretmenlik Uygulaması” Dersine İlişkin Görüşlerin Karşılaştırılması
Authors: YILDIZ Rukiyye , ULUTAŞ İlkay , DEMİRİZ Serap
Published: July 2018

Çalışmanın temel amacını okul öncesi öğretmen adaylarıyla uygulama yaptıkları okullardaki öğretmenlerinin öğretmenlik uygulaması sürecine ilişkin görüşlerinin karşılaştırılması oluşturmaktadır. Araştırma nitel araştırma yöntemlerinden durum çalışması deseni ile yürütülmüştür. Çalışmaya 21 öğretmen adayı ile öğrencilerin uygulama yaptıkları okullarda çalışan 12 öğretmen katılmıştır. Öğretmen ve öğretmen adaylarından öğretmenlik uygulaması dersine ilişkin görüşlerini almak amacıyla araştırmacılar tarafından hazırlanan ”Öğretmenlik Uygulaması Değerlendirme Formu” kullanılmıştır. Elde edilen verilerin analizinde nitel veri analiz tekniklerinden içerik analizi tekniğinden yararlanılmıştır. Öğretmen adayları ve uygulama öğretmenleriyle yapılan görüşmeler sonucunda öğretmen adaylarının sınıf yönetimi ve çocukla iletişimde desteğe ihtiyaç duydukları görülmüştür. Öğretmenlik Uygulaması ders saatinin artırılması, sadece bu derste değil tüm derslerde uygulamaya yönlendirilmeleri öğretmen adaylarının daha donanımlı olarak mesleğe hazır olmalarını sağlayabilecektir.
Community composition and functions of endophytic bacteria of Bt maize
Authors: Adeleke Rasheed A. , Mashiane Asnath R. , Bezuidenhout Carlos C. , Chirima George
Published: July 2018

We investigated the potential effects of genetic modification of Bt maize on the community composition and functions of bacterial endophytes associated with transgenic maize (Bt MON 810) in comparison with its isogenic parental line at two developmental stages. Bacterial isolates were obtained from transgenic (Bt) and non-transgenic (non-Bt) maize at 50- and 90-day-old developmental stages. Isolated bacterial endophytes were screened for their capabilities in phosphate solubilisation, nitrogen fixation, production of antifungal metabolites and production of indole acetic acid. After molecular identification, 60 isolates were obtained and clustered into 19 and 18 operational taxonomic units from 50- and 90-day-old maize, respectively. The isolates belonged to the genera Bacillus, Pantoea, Serratia, Yersinia, Enterobacter, Pseudomonas, Acinetobacter and Stenotrophomonas. Functional attributes and diversity of the isolated endophytes at both developmental stages were not significantly different for both maize varieties. However, functional attributes were significantly affected by plant growth stage. Isolates from younger plants were more efficient producers of indole acetic acid, but exhibited little or no capabilities for nitrogen fixation, phosphate solubilisation and antifungal activity in both maize genotypes. Based on these outcomes, Bt modification in maize does not seem to affect the community composition or functional attributes of bacterial endophytes.Significance:• Bt modification in maize does not affect the ecological guild or functional attributes of cultivable bacterial endophytes.