bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Raindrop Diameters for Rainfall Attenuation in Southern Africa
Authors: Adetan Oluwumi , Obiyemi Obiseye
Published: March 2016

The influence of critical raindrop diameters on the specific rainfall attenuation in Durban (29o52'S, 30o58'E), South Africa using various rainfall regimes is analyzed in this paper. Different rain rate values representing drizzle, widespread, shower and thunderstorm are selected for the purpose of analysis over the measured raindrop size distribution. The three-parameter lognormal and gamma DSD models with shape parameter of 2 are used to estimate the parameters required to investigate the drop sizes which produce a major contribution to the total specific rainfall attenuation for the selected rain rate values. The computed total specific attenuation increases with increasing frequencies and rain rates. The highest and prevailing contribution to the specific attenuation occurs at  for the stratiform (drizzle or widespread) and convective (shower or thunderstorm) rain types for the models considered.  The total percentage fraction formed by drops in the diameter range 0.5 mm ≤ D ≤ 2.5 mm and 1.0 mm ≤ D ≤ 3.0 mm are found to be most critical for the specific rain attenuation for the stratiform (drizzle and widespread)  and convective (shower and thunderstorm) rainfall types especially at higher frequencies.
New Stability Conditions for Nonlinear Systems Described by Multiple Model Approach
Authors: Sassi Ameur , Abdelkrim Afef
Published: March 2016

This paper studies the global asymptotic stability and the tracking control problem of an uncertain non stationary continuous system described by the multiple model approach. It is based on the construction of a basis of models containing four extreme models and possibility of addition of an average model. Once the basis of models is generated, an operation of fusion of these different models is made to the level of the elementary control law and the partial output using the geometric method. New sufficient conditions for the stability are derived via Lyapunov technique. The matrices of feedback gains and tracking gains are determined while solving systems of LMI constraints (Linear Matrix Inequalities). The case of an unstable continuous nonlinear model of electrical circuit operating in pseudo-periodic system is considered to illustrate the proposed approach.
Components and Analysis Method of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Requirements in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Authors: Khaleel Yousef , Abuhamdah Anmar , Abu Sara Mutaz , Al-Tamimi Bassam
Published: March 2016

With the fast development of information technologies and enterprise software, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are increasingly adopted by more small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Based on this trend, it is necessary to develop ERP systems in a manner that meets and fits the SMEs requirements and needs. This paper proposes conceptual components of ERP requirements that are required for generating ERP system functions. In addition, it proposes an ERP requirements analysis method for ERP system developments in order to produce the proper ERP system functions for SMEs. The advantage of this analysis method is that it is easy to analyze and integrate the special requirements of the ERP development for distinguishing a sub-sector of SMEs. In this paper, by analyzing the components of requirements and the relationship of the business process modelling, several basic concepts are given and the method of the process analysis and modelling is also expressed.
Resolving the Issues of Capon and APES Approach for Projecting Enhanced Spectral Estimation
Authors: Prasad Kantipudi MVV , Suresh H.N.
Published: March 2016

There are various applications on signal processing that is highly dependent on preciseness and accuracy of the outcomes in spectrum of signals. Hence, from the past two decades the research community has recognized the benefits, significance, as well as associated problems in carrying out a model for spectral estimation. While in-depth investigation of the existing literatures shows that there are various attempts by the researchers to solve the issues associated with spectral estimations, where majority of teh research work is inclined towards addressing problems associated with Capon and APES techniques of spectral analysis. Therefore, this paper introduces a very simple technique towards resolving the issues of Capon and APES techniques. The outcome of the study was analyzed using correlational factor and power spectral density to find the proposed system offers better spectral estimations compared to existing system.
An Improved ICI Self Cancellation Scheme for OFDM Systems Under Various Channels
Authors: Sharief A. H. , Sai Ram M. Satya
Published: March 2016

Inter Carrier Interference (ICI) is being introduced in OFDM due to the carrier frequency offset (CFO), which will degrade the system performance and efficiency at higher modulation levels and it decreases the performance of power amplifiers. Hence, here in this paper, we introduced a novel ICI reduction algorithms cancellation under the various channel environments such as AWGN, Rayleigh and also Rician. Simulation results have been compared with existing and proposed schemes under these channel specifications and concluded that the Rayleigh has performed far better than the AWGN and Rician channel distributions in terms of Bit Error Rate (BER) and Carrier interference Ration (CIR) performance.
Partial Discharge Characterization based on Leakage Current Pulses Waveform for Contaminated Glass Insulator String
Authors: Othman N. A. , Piah M. A. M. , Adzis Z. , A. Al-geelani Nasir
Published: March 2016

This paper deals with the analysis of partial discharge (PD) occurrences based on leakage current (LC) pulses distribution under different level of contamination. In this work, laboratory based contamination performance tests are conducted on four units of glass insulator string stacked in I-position. Results show that PD can be characterized (according to their occurrence with respect to the AC supply) as follows: corona discharge occurring dominantly in lightly contaminated insulators, surface discharge occurring dominantly in medium contaminated insulators and finally internal discharge occurring dominantly in heavily contaminated insulators. The ability to distinguish the type of PDs from the LC waveform could be used to monitor and predict the condition of the insulator. The outcome can be incorporated in a conditioning monitoring system.
Novel Active Current Transducers for Diesel Power Stations
Authors: Solovev Denis B. , Merkusheva Alena E.
Published: March 2016

Autonomous diesel power plants found the active application at the organization of autonomous power supply of the mining enterprises. In article the problem of increase of efficiency of use of control units is considered by the active power of synchronous generators of diesel power plants. As a solution the new innovative offer in the form of the developed device of the measuring converter of active current which is one of the main components of game-trolno-measuring equipment of diesel power plants is offered. The developed scheme is simpler, in comparison with the similar converters of active current executed on the basis of current transformers. In the developed scheme of the measuring converter it is offered to use the differentiating induction converters of current as primary measuring converters. It allows to reduce many times number of the elements entering the standard scheme, and also mass-dimensional characteristics of the device.
Novel Single Phase Full Bridge Inverter Formed by Floating Capacitors
Authors: Bhimireddy Prathap Reddy , Kondreddy Sreekanth Reddy , Beduduri Samba Siva Reddy
Published: March 2016

In this paper, a new single-phase bridge inverter is described which can generate a more steps of voltage levels with reduced number of switches, gate driver circuits and diodes as compare to normal multilevel inverter. Another feature of this inverter is its ability to prodeuce the voltages from a single dc-link power supply which enables back-to-back operation of converter. The proposed method with more number of levels can improve power quality, lower switching losses and produce high quality voltage waveforms. Moreover at all load power factors the proposed method can be operated.The research of the model is done by means of computer simulation with the software MATLAB/SIMULINK. This topology has very low common mode voltage variation and dv/dt stress. Also this inverter is help full for reactive power compensation.
A Shunt Active Power Filter for 12 Pulse Converter Using Source Current Detection Approach
Authors: T Rajesh , A Nirmalkumar
Published: March 2016

A shunt Active Power Filter (APF) with current detection at the source side is considered as a closed-loop system from the view of the whole power distribution system, which is expected with better harmonics filtering performance compared with conventional current detection methods such as load current detection and open loop control.  This paper introduces an efficient source current detection method (direct) control scheme to mitigate the grid current harmonics generated by the twelve pulse converter.  The proposed system uses Control Rectifier (12 –pulse converter) which efficiently regulates the DC voltage by varying the angle of each 6 pulse converter. Moreover, the proposed system uses three winding transformer which eliminates the harmonics during equal angles switching at each six pulse converter which in turn simplifies the operation of the SAPF. The proposed system is simulated in MATLAB SIMULINK to evaluate the performance of the proposed system.
The Local Dialect of Northwest Paphos: Phonological Description [in Greek] (Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, 2015)
Authors: Christodoulou Charalambos
Published: March 2016

In this contribution, I offer a summary of my 2015 Ph.D. dissertation from the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki on the phonological description of the local dialect of Northwest Paphos (Cyprus).
Dostoevsky’s “Pochva” [“Soil”] and “Russian Identity” in Phenomenological Perspective
Authors: Vladiv-Glover Slobodanka
Published: March 2016

This article questions the received view of Dostoevsky’s “pochva” and “Russianness” as reactionary tendencies of Dostoevsky’s ideology. Instead, it reexamines these concepts as metaphors which form part of a phenomenology of subjectivity going back to Hegel’s phenomenology of identity as difference. The starting point for this re-examination is a brief critique of Andzej de Lazari’s book V krugu Fyodora Dostoevskogo: Pochvenichestvo. A supporting analysis of The Possessed as an elaboration of the claims about Dostoevsky’s pochvenichestvo made in this paper, follows as Part II.
Comments on “Combination Mode Dynamics of the Anomalous Northwest Pacific Anticyclone”*
Authors: Li Tim , Wang Bin , Wang Lu
Published: March 2016

In a recent paper, Stuecker et al. applied a “combination mode” (C-mode) theory to explain the formation of the anomalous western North Pacific anticyclone (WNPAC) during El Niño events. The C-mode, arising from interaction between the annual cycle and ENSO, is an Indo-Pacific basin mode with two “near annual” time scales (roughly 10 and 15 months, respectively). This comment discusses to what extent the C-mode can explain the WNPAC dynamics. The major findings are the following: 1) spectral analysis of the Indo-Pacific circulation anomaly fields indicates that the 10-month mode is not observed and the 15-month mode is only seen in the western North Pacific (WNP), where its spectral peak is statistically insignificant; 2) the 15-month mode (with a period of 13–19 months) accounts for only a small portion (13%) of the observed sea level pressure anomaly in the WNP; and 3) the C-mode evolution does not capture the observed timing of the WNPAC onset in the northern fall of El Niño developing year. In addition it is shown, based on observational analyses and numerical experiments, that local atmosphere–ocean interaction plays an important role in formation of the anomalous anticyclonic center over the Philippine Sea.
Reply to “Comments on ‘Combination Mode Dynamics of the Anomalous Northwest Pacific Anticyclone’”*
Authors: Stuecker Malte F. , Jin Fei-Fei , Timmermann Axel , McGregor Shayne
Published: March 2016

In this reply, the authors clarify the points made in the original paper in 2015 and show that issues raised in the comment by Li et al. are unsubstantiated. The main conclusions can be summarized as follows: 1) The time evolution of the anomalous low-level northwest Pacific anticyclone (NWP-AC) is largely caused by combination mode (C-mode) dynamics. 2) The theoretical C-mode index accurately captures the rapid development of the anomalous NWP-AC. 3) Thermodynamic air–sea coupling does not play a major role for the rapid phase transition of the NWP-AC and the meridionally antisymmetric atmospheric circulation response during the peak phase of El Niño events in boreal winter.
Heart Failure Readmission Reduction
Authors: Drozda Joseph P. , Smith Donna A. , Freiman Paul C. , Pursley Janet , VanSlette Jeffrey A. , Smith Timothy R.
Published: March 2016

Little is known regarding effectiveness of readmission reduction programs over time. The Heart Failure Management Program (HFMP) of St. John’s Physician Group Practice (PGP) Demonstration provided an opportunity to assess outcomes over an extended period. Data from an electronic health record, an inpatient database, a disease registry, and the Social Security Death Master File were analyzed for patients admitted with heart failure (HF) for 5 years before (Period 1) and 5 years after (Period 2) inception of PGP. HF admissions decreased (Period 1, 58.3/month; Period 2, 52.4/month, P = .007). Thirty-day all-cause readmission rate dropped from Period 1 (annual average 18.8% [668/3545]) to year 1 of Period 2 (16.9% [136/804], P = .04) and remained stable thereafter (annual average 16.8% [589/3503]). Thirty-day mortality rate was flat throughout. HFMP was associated with decreased readmissions, primarily related to outpatient case management, while mortality remained stable.
The finite-difference method in microseismic modeling: Fundamentals, implementation, and applications
Authors: Hobro James , Williams Michael , Calvez Joel Le
Published: March 2016

The complexity of the seismic model around most reservoirs poses significant challenges for ray methods, even for 1D model structures. Scattering, waveguide, and near-field effects potentially create waveforms that can only be modeled adequately by the full elastic wave equation. Finite-difference modeling can form the basis of a new class of interpretation tool for these scenarios. Although used extensively in reverse time migration and full-waveform inversion algorithms, it is not commonly used in microseismic applications. Microseismic modeling places more stringent demands on the finite-difference method than its more conventional applications in surface seismic imaging. A finite-difference scheme can meet these requirements by carefully accounting for the main potential sources of error in modeled results. We examine the accuracy of finite-difference seismograms through comparisons with analytical results in a dip-slip modeling example. The value of this approach as an interpretation tool in microseismic modeling is demonstrated in a survey design example from the Fayetteville Shale, where scattering and waveguide phenomena have a significant effect on the observed amplitudes. We advise placing arrays at locations where amplitudes are robust to these effects when deploying real-time ray-based inversion methods in the field.
Reviews
Authors: Avakian Robert W. , Shaughnessy Anna C. , Ali Hendratta N.
Published: March 2016

Funding Your Career in Science, by Ritsert C. Jansen, ISBN 978-1-107-62417-7, 2013, Cambridge University Press, 215 pp., US$29.99. Success Strategies From Women in STEM — A Portable Mentor, second edition, edited by Peggy A. Pritchard and Christine S. Grant, ISBN 978-0-12-397181-4, 2015, Elsevier, 352 pp. (print), 518 pp. (eBook), US$44.95.
PROBLEMS OF FORMATION OF INDICATIVE STANDARDS OF INDICATORS OF REGIONAL COMPETITIVENESS IN THE CONDITIONS OF TRANSFORMATION ECONOMY
Authors: Меньшикова  , Menshikova Mariya , Рюмшин  , Ryumshin Andrey
Published: March 2016

The article describes the development and implementation of a set of indicative standards of performance as key areas of regional economic development. The result of the study is a proposal to form a cluster indicative of optimum standards of regional competitiveness indicators based on the principles of decentralization, equilibrium, systematic, conditionality.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: RUSSIAN AND FOREIGN STANDARDS
Authors: Строева  , Stroeva Olesya , Иванов  , Ivanov Khristo
Published: March 2016

The article presents an analysis of the features of social practices implementation and corporate social responsibility in the business world. The authors structured the distinctive features of the American and European models of corporate social responsibility. Based on the analysis the authors highlighted the stages of formation of corporate social responsibility. Much attention is paid to the method of creating reports of Russian companies on corporate social performance and the need for government regulation which oblige companies to this activity on the example of the experience of Finland, Norway, Denmark and other countries. The recommendations of the corporate social responsibility of business structures in Russia and the former Soviet Union are suggested.
Cardiac implications of drugs used to treat type 2 diabetes
Authors: Bostock-Cox Beverley
Published: March 2016

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity in both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is the most common, making up around 90% of all cases of diabetes. CVD is responsible for the deaths of over half of all people with T2DM ( Morrish et al, 2001 ) so good quality care should be based on preventing cardiovascular complications. Therapies used to improve glycaemic control have also been shown to have a range of effects on cardiovascular risk. The aim of this article is to identify what is known about the main drugs used to manage glycaemia in type 2 diabetes, in terms of their impact on cardiac health.
Chewing gum and Woodbines: The comforts of war
Authors: Nolan Peter
Published: March 2016

In this article Professor Peter Nolan explores the relationship of war with mental health and various comfort measures
The mental health of military children: A review
Authors: Greg Thomas
Published: March 2016

There is a paucity of research exploring the mental health of British military children. This article seeks to answer the question: what is the stress experience of British military children whose parent(s) are serving in Germany? Methods included a critical literature review and reflections from my own practice as a community psychiatric nurse. It was found that military children are presented with a number of situations and stressors associated with and unique to their parent's job. Increased stress among military children is a potential trigger for the development of mental health problems. Key issues identified included: deployment, frequent relocation and regular changes of schools. It can be concluded that current research tends to focus on the stress and coping of children during operational deployment and not on the day-to-day stresses. Further research is needed into the impacts of recurrent separations, frequent relocations, regular changes of schools, potential injury or fatality of parent, disruption to friendships, social networks and activities.
The impact of 12-hour shifts on team effectiveness
Authors: Bradley Margaret
Published: March 2016

This paper aims to illustrate the potential impact of 12-hour shifts on teamworking by focusing on the restrictions such shifts create in developing effective and engaging team communication processes. It does this through presenting research on work with multiprofessional mental health teams, both community- and ward-based. It is proposed that 12-hour shifts can contribute to teams being ‘pseudo’ teams rather than ‘real teams’, and draws on the input–process–output model of team effectiveness to illustrate the points made. The premise of the paper is that team shift patterns (as an input) mediate the extent to which teams can participate in effective and engaging communication processes, which, in turn, impacts on the outputs of team effectiveness, including outcomes for patients, such as quality of care, and outcomes for staff, such as staff wellbeing.
Variations in Fiber Morphology and Chemical Components of Dendrocalamus giganteus
Authors: Wang Shuguang , Lin Shuyan , Li Weicheng , Ding Yulong
Published: March 2016

The fiber and chemical properties of Dendrocalamus giganteus at three ages from three different sites in China were investigated. For samples from all sites, the fibers in the middle internodes of culms were longer than those of other internodes. A similar trend was also observed within one internode. The fiber achieved its maximum length after 1 year, but the maximum length differed with site. The chemical composition and fiber characteristics also varied with height and site. Bamboo culms at the age of 3 years were suitable for utilization purposes, and the bamboos of Cangyuan provenance were the best for pulping and processing. They were also more suitable for popularization as a timber-yielding type owing to having the longest fibers and the lowest ratio of wall thickness to lumen diameter, the lowest SiO2 and lignin contents, and the highest holocellulose content.
Fosinopril: HIV-Associated Nephropathy (HIVAN)
Authors: Generali Joyce A. , Cada Dennis J.
Published: March 2016

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label Drug Facts, a publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label Drug Facts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific drug uses that are unapproved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This new guide to the literature enables the health care professional or clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information before patient care decisions are made. Direct questions or comments regarding Off-Label Drug Uses to jgeneral@ku.edu .
Idarucizumab
Authors: Cada Dennis J. , Kim Anne P. , Baker Danial E.
Published: March 2016

Each month, subscribers to The Formulary Monograph Service receive 5 to 6 well-documented monographs on drugs that are newly released or are in late phase 3 trials. The monographs are targeted to Pharmacy & Therapeutics Committees. Subscribers also receive monthly 1-page summary monographs on agents that are useful for agendas and pharmacy/nursing in-services. A comprehensive target drug utilization evaluation/medication use evaluation (DUE/MUE) is also provided each month. With a subscription, the monographs are sent in print and are also available on-line. Monographs can be customized to meet the needs of a facility. A drug class review is now published monthly with The Formulary Monograph Service. Through the cooperation of The Formulary, Hospital Pharmacy publishes selected reviews in this column. For more information about The Formulary Monograph Service, contact Wolters Kluwer customer service at 866-397-3433. The March 2016 monograph topics are necitumumab, talimogene laherparepvec, asfotase alfa, trabectedin, and osimertinib. The Safety MUE is on patiromer.
Mitarbeitergewinnung durch Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Schleer Christoph , Calmbach Marc
Published: March 2016

Bei der beruflichen Orientierung gewinnen weiche Faktoren an Bedeutung. Unternehmen, die Corporate Social Responsibility als Leitlinie verfolgen und ihr Engagement sichtbar und glaubwürdig kommunizieren, können ihre Attraktivität als Arbeitgeber erhöhen.
Sechs Wege zur Transformation
Authors: Kampffmeyer Nele
Published: March 2016

Die sozial-ökologische Transformation der Wirtschaft ist nicht nur eine Forderung von Politik, Zivilgesellschaft und Wissenschaft. Einige Unternehmen haben sich bereits selbst erfolgreich auf den Weg zu einer nachhaltigen Erneuerung gemacht. Welche Vorstellungen haben diese Vorreiter von einer nachhaltigen und transformativen Wirtschaft?
Wir produzieren Zeitwohlstand
Authors: Von Jorck Gerrit , Gebauer Jana
Published: March 2016

„Zeit ist Geld.“ Aber am Arbeitsmarkt ist Zeit eine flüchtige Währung. Unter steigendem Rationalisierungs- und Wettbewerbsdruck fällt ihr Kurs zusehends. Und wir alle, die wir noch die letzten Zeitreserven einsetzen, tragen dazu bei. Dass es auch anders geht, zeigen uns Zeitpioniere und Postwachstumsunternehmen.
Das Accounting sozialer Nachhaltigkeit
Authors: Woschnack Daniela , Nagel Sebastian , Hiß Stefanie , Teufel Bernd
Published: March 2016

Das gesellschaftliche Leitbild der Nachhaltigkeit breitet sich zunehmend über den Finanzmarkt aus. Dazu gehören Versuche, das Accounting und Reporting von Nachhaltigkeit zu standardisieren. Dabei bleiben bisher zentrale Aspekte der Nachhaltigkeitsidee auf der Strecke.
Nachfrageorientierte Innovationspolitik
Authors: Müller Ria , Rubik Frieder
Published: March 2016

Einführung in das Schwerpunktthema.
Gewerbliche Großverbraucher als Treiber für Innovationen beim nachhaltigen Konsum
Authors: Müller Ria , Rubik Frieder
Published: March 2016

Welche Rolle spielen große Firmen und Konzerne beim nachhaltigen Konsum? Wie lassen sich gewerbliche Großabnehmer als Nachfrager für Umweltinnovationen gewinnen? Erfolg versprechende Strategien unterstützen die schnellere Marktdiffusion von Umweltinnovationen durch verändertes Einkaufsverhalten der Marktriesen.
New Acceptance Sampling Plans Based on Percentiles for Exponentiated Fréchet Distribution
Authors: Rao Gadde Srinivasa , Rosaiah Kanaparthi , Babu Mothukuri Sridhar , Sivakumar Devireddy Charanaudaya
Published: March 2016

In this article, acceptance sampling plans are developed
for the exponentiated Fréchet distribution based on percentiles
when the life test is truncated at a pre-specified time. The minimum sample
size necessary to ensure the specified life percentile is obtained under a
given customer's risk and producer's risk simultaneously. The operating
characteristic values of the sampling plans are presented. One example with
real data set is also given as an illustration.
Ultraproducts of quasirandom groups with small cosocles
Authors: Yang Yilong
Published: March 2016

A D-quasirandom group is a group without any non-trivial unitary representation of dimension less than D. Given a sequence of groups with increasing quasirandomness, it is natural to ask if the ultraproduct will end up with no finite dimensional unitary representation at all. This is not true in general, but we answer this question in the affirmative when the groups in question have uniform small cosocles, i.e., their quotients by small kernels are direct products of finite simple groups.

Two applications of our results are given, one in triangle patterns inside quasirandom groups and one in self-bohrifying groups. Our main tools are some variations of the covering number for groups, different kinds of length functions on groups, and the classification of finite simple groups.
The effect of short-term intermittent hypoxic exposure on heart rate variability in a sedentary population
Authors: Lizamore CA , Kathiravel Y , Elliott J , Hellemans J , Hamlin MJ
Published: March 2016

While the effects of instantaneous, single-bout exposure to hypoxia have been well researched, little is known about the autonomic response during, or as an adaptation to, repeated intermittent hypoxic exposure (IHE) in a sedentary population. Resting heart rate variability (HRV) and exercise capacity was assessed in 16 participants (8 receiving IHE, [Hyp] and 8 receiving a placebo treatment [C]) before and after a 4-week IHE intervention. Heart rate variability was also measured during an IHE session in the last week of the intervention. Post-intervention, the root mean squared successive difference (rMSSD) increased substantially in Hyp (71.6 ± 52.5%, mean change ± 90% confidence limits) compared to C suggesting an increase in vagal outflow. However, aside from a likely decrease in submaximal exercise heart rate in the Hyp group (–5.0 ± 6.4%) there was little evidence of improved exercise capacity. During the week 4 IHE measurement, HRV decreased during the hypoxic exposure (reduced R-R interval: –7.5 ± 3.2%; and rMSSD: –24.7 ± 17.3%) suggesting a decrease in the relative contribution of vagal activity. In summary, while 4 weeks of IHE is unlikely to improve maximal exercise capacity, it may be a useful means of increasing HRV in people unable to exercise.
Artificial concerns. Effects of a commercial advertisement on modern health worries and sympathetic activation
Authors: Köteles Ferenc , Tarján Eszter , Berkes Tímea
Published: March 2016

Theoretical background

Many companies offer products that are claimed to protect against harmful environmental factors. Advertisements of such products are designed to maximize risk perception and worrying, which may have a negative impact on psychological functioning and health. Public worry about the harmful effects of various environmental factors may also be boosted.

Aim

To measure the impact of an advertising film on worrying and sympathetic activation.

Methods

100 young adults completed questionnaires measuring constructs that were connected to modern health worries in past studies (somatosensory amplification, health anxiety, subjective somatic symptoms, beliefs about the validity of complementary and alternative medicine, holistic health beliefs, and spirituality). Participants were asked to watch an advertising film exaggerating the risks posed by electromagnetic radiation or a control film. Sympathetic activation (as assessed by heart rate) was measured before and after the intervention. Worrying (as assessed by the Radiation sub-scale of the Modern Health Worries Scale) was measured before and after the intervention, and three weeks later.

Results

Compared to the control film, the advertisement caused an acute increase in heart rate (t(98) = 4.122, p < .001). Concerning worrying, a mixed analysis of variance indicated a significant group × time interaction (F(2,98) = 3.455; p = .034). In the post hoc analysis, the control group showed no significant deviations from baseline. In the intervention group, however, significant (p < .05) differences were found from baseline at both follow-ups. Acute change in worrying was not connected to any assessed psychological construct (i.e., no effect modification was found).

Conclusions

Commercial advertisements of certain health protecting products can play a role in the generation and maintenance of modern health worries. From a broader point of view, such advertisements may contribute to both the social amplification of risk and possible development of a moral panic.
Incursionando en la producción científica
Authors: Aguilar Galvis Fabiola Cecilia
Published: March 2016

"En el contexto de la proyección de la Facultad de Ciencias Exactas Físicas y Naturales de la Universidad de Santander -UDES, la generación de conocimiento es uno de los ejes estratégicos que fundamentan su naturaleza al servicio de la comunidad y del ambiente. En este sentido, la emisión del primer volumen de la revista Innovaciencia, como una publicación periódica y abierta a la documentación de la investigación interdisciplinar, es un primer paso, que da cuenta de la labor en la búsqueda permanente de nuevo conocimiento e innovación en respuesta al acelerado desarrollo, en un mundo globalizado ávido de cambio.Es indudable que en investigación se requiere, constancia, dedicación, esfuerzo y voluntades de todos los actores de una sociedad, y siempre serán insuficientes para lograr el desarrollo que día a día exige la humanidad para satisfacer sus necesidades. Es así como desde diferentes enfoques se puede contribuir a este desarrollo, sin embargo es indispensable el acercamiento al escenario y contexto de un entorno, económico, ambiental e industrial, donde se requiere una permanente intervención en innovación e investigación, en respuesta a una necesidad real.El enfoque en Innovaciencia, está orientado al fomento de la investigación interdisciplinar desde la base de las ciencias – matemáticas, biología, química - hasta la aplicación en las diferentes disciplinas y tecnologías que en últimas dan el sentido y hacen realidad la apropiación y aplicación de un nuevo conocimiento. En este primer volumen de la revista se abordan importantes reportes que tratan temas relevantes desde el nivel de nanotecnología, microbiología, a los residuos sólidos, sin dejar a un lado la exactitud de las matemáticas y las proyecciones estadísticas como importantes aportes a la generación de conocimiento." Revista Innovaciencia Universidad de Santander - UDESFacultad de Ciencias Físicas, Exactas y NaturalesCampus Universitario Lagos del CaciqueBloque Motilones. Tercer Piso Tel: 57-7-6516500, Ext: 1783Bucaramanga, Colombia
Aplicación de la metodología de series de tiempo en la estimación de los niveles de exportaciones de café de Colombia periodo 1958-2011
Authors: Pérez Pulido Miguel Oswaldo , Orlandoni Merli Giampaolo , Ramoni Perazzi Josefa
Published: March 2016

Un elemento fundamental para el sector cafetero colombiano, es saber a corto, mediano y largo plazo, el comportamiento de lasexportaciones de café suave de Colombia, para conocer su relación en los procesos de ventas y producción. En concordancia conlo anterior, se realizó una evaluación de los niveles de exportaciones de café, en forma mensual desde inicios de 1958 hasta finalesde 2008. Con el objetivo de desarrollar un modelo que permita caracterizar y obtener pronósticos sobre el comportamiento de las exportacionesde café realizadas en el país; para ello, se usó la metodología Box Jenkins, siguiendo las fases para los modelos ARIMA(Autoregresivo Integrado de Media Móvil). Los datos fueron tomados de la página web de la Federación Nacional de Cafeteros deColombia. La serie bajo estudio mostró un comportamiento estacional, donde los primeros trimestres presentan los menores nivelesdel año, particularmente en febrero, mes que registra los niveles más bajos de exportaciones del año, estos niveles trimestralmentevan incrementándose de forma paulatina hasta alcanzar el mayor nivel de exportaciones en el IV trimestre, específicamente entreNoviembre y Diciembre. Finalmente se obtuvieron los pronósticos entre los años 2009 y 2011, siguiendo un comportamiento establerespecto al periodo de validación de la muestra de la serie. Los datos fueron analizados utilizando el lenguaje R -PROJECT v 11.0.
Evaluación de indicadores de gestión en las universidades públicas colombianas: una aplicación de modelos de ecuaciones estructurales
Authors: Perez Pulido Miguel Oswaldo , Orlandoni Merli Giampaolo , Ramoni Perazzi Josefa
Published: March 2016

Introducción: En los últimos años, las universidades están experimentando nuevas tendencias que tienen serias implicaciones en su estructura y funcionamiento. Los organismos involucrados en la educación superior están construyendo estrategias para mejorar la eficiencia en las universidades y así asegurar su correcto funcionamiento. El Modelo de Gestión de las universidades públicas colombianas se basa en la evaluación de las relaciones de causalidad entre los insumos con los que cuenta la universidad, medidos a través de un conjunto de indicadores que representan la capacidad total de la misma. En esta investigación se presenta un análisis de los indicadores de gestión universitaria estatal en el periodo 2003-2008, donde se pretende caracterizar la evolución en el tiempo y explorar si se mantiene su estructura año a año. También se investiga si los indicadores propuestos por el SUE (Sistema Universitario Estatal) son los más aptos y se puntualiza cuáles de ellos son más confiables. Materiales y Métodos: Este trabajo es un estudio descriptivo y cuantitativo, en el que se propone un diseño de modelo estructural longitudinal en dos fases (two wave), dividido en dos periodos (2003-2005) y (2006-2008). Se analizaron las variaciones porcentuales de los distintos indicadores de gestión tomando como año base el 2003. Los datos se analizaron mediante el software Lisrel 8.5. Resultados: Dentro de los resultados más significativos se observa el cambio estructural de comportamiento favorable para el segundo periodo (2006-2008) respecto al primero (2003-2005) en el índice de investigación. Conclusiones: El efecto directo estimado desde el índice de investigación del periodo es de 3.8, lo que indica un cambio de estructura favorable positivo entre los dos periodos.
El polilogaritmo ayuda a corroborar la relación entre la entropía y el área de un agujero negro
Authors: Muñoz Muñoz Francisco Ricardo
Published: March 2016

Introducción: Se inicia con definiciones y aclaraciones de conceptos involucrados en la dinámica de los agujeros negros. Materiales y métodos: Se desarrolla la revisión del tema partiendo del hecho de que al agujero negro lo rodee un “mar de fotones” creado gracias al proceso de acreción, llegándose a obtener la relación entre la entropía y el área de un agujero negro en concordancia con la literatura científica. Resultados y discusión: En este trabajo se presenta una deducción de la relación entre la entropía y el área de un agujero negro estacionario, cargado a partir del establecimiento de un baño de radiación de fotones de frecuencia correspondiente a la de los rayos X. Conclusiones: En el proceso surgen expresiones matemáticas, poco trabajadas en cursos formales de física a nivel de pregrado, como lo es el polilogaritmo o función de Jonquière presente a lo largo de los desarrollos que siguen, una vez establecidas por primera vez.
A new mutation at exon 2 of hprt1 locus causing lesch-nyhan syndrome.
Authors: Gil Zapata Adriana María , Castillo Pico Adriana , Gusmão Leonor , Amorim António , Rodríguez Sanabria Fernando
Published: March 2016

Introduction: Lesch-Nyhan síndrome (LNS) is an X-linked recessive inborn error of metabolism, due to deficiency of the enzyme Hypoxanthine-guanine-phosphoribosyl transferase (HGPRT; EC.2.4.2.8) resulting in hyperuricemia, neurological and behavioural disturbances. In the present work, we report the results of the study of a Colombian family, where LNS was previously clinically and biochemically diagnosed. Material and Methods: The full HPRT gene, including 9 exons and 8 introns, was amplified on eight separate DNA fragments. Both strands, forward and reverse, of the amplified DNA fragments were analyzed and the obtained sequences were compared with those deposited at National Center for Biotechnology Information. Results and conclusions: Sequence analysis allowed the detection of new LNS causing mutation, an adenine deletion in exon 2 of HPRT1 gene resulting in a frameshift which determines a premature stop codon. This study, besides adding a new mutation to the already large spectrum of disease causing variation at HPRT, allows therefore providing genetic counseling for the family as well as prenatal diagnosis.
The Predictability of Motor and Cognitive Impairment According to Brain Asymmetry of Cognitive Evoked Potentials P300 and Features of Symptom Complex in Patients with Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Poskotinova L. V. , Krivonogova E. V. , Khasanova N. M. , Krasnikova M. N.
Published: March 2016

Link the degree of progression of motor and cognitive impairment in Parkinson’s disease and parameters of cognitive evoked potentials brain activity recognized not always unambiguous. This is due to the wide range of differences in amplitude and latency time of evoked potentials in the different leads of electroencephalogram caused functional reorganization of neuronal activity in brain structures in the early stages of the disease. Objective. The aim is to determine the correlation of the cognitive auditory evoked potentials P300 characteristics and symptom features in patients with Parkinson’s disease. Methods. The study involved 60 people, right-handers: 34 people (24 women and 10 men) with a verified diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease and the control group — 26 people (20 women and 6 men). The disease duration, severity of symptoms (Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale), and stage of the disease (Hoehn, Yahr) were determined, the 15-item Geriatric Depression Scale was used to indicate the depression symptoms. Assessment of the electroencephalogram and auditory evoked potentials P300 was performed by an electroencephalograph «Encephalan» (Medicom, Taganrog, Russia). The minimum amplitude and the maximum latency of P300 in electroencephalogram-leads (F3, F4, C3, C4, P3, P4, F7, F8, T3, T4, T5 and T6) on the right and left sides were determined. Results. A significant positive correlation between the amplitude of evoked potential P300 on the left and duration of Parkinson’s disease was revealed, moreover the severity of disease symptoms such as left-side resting tremors of the hand, left-side muscle tension of the hand and/or foot, rising from a chair without using their hands, posture disorder were established. Conclusion. Marked brain asymmetry in the form of increase of the P300 amplitude on the left side combined with a significant reduction in the P300 amplitude on the right side in contra lateral electroencephalogram-lead indicates unfavorable prognosis in relation to cognitive dysfunction and motor disorders identified with left-sided Parkinson’s disease onset.
Possibilities of Pharmacological Preconditioning
Authors: Levchenkova O. S. , Novikov V. E.
Published: March 2016

The review is devoted to the experimental and clinical data analysis about the effectiveness of preconditioning as a method of organism’s tolerance development to ischemia/hypoxia. Characteristics of the trigger, signaling and effector stages of the preconditioning mechanism are described. Medicinal agents which can stimulate processes of endogenous metabolic adaptation are discussed. As is shown in the review the role of inducers of preconditioning can play drugs from different pharmacological groups: adenosine receptor agonists, some agents for inhalation anesthesia, potassium channel activators, opioid analgesics, antagonists of excitatory amino acids, inducers of transcription factors, drugs of erythropoietin, inhibitors of the mitochondrial pore, bioflavonoids, drugs with antihypoxic action. Examples of successful preconditioning with help of pharmacological agents are presented. The prospects of pharmacological preconditioning usage in cerebral ischemia and myocardial infarction are discussed in the article.
Postconditioning the Heart: Analysis of Experimental and Clinical Data
Authors: Maslov L. N. , Tsibul'nikov S. Yu. , Mukhomedzyanov A. V. , Semenotsov A. S. , Tsepokina A. V. , Khutornaya M. V. , Kutikhin A. G. , Nam I. F.
Published: March 2016

Experimental atherosclerosis and hypercholesterolemia may reduce or eliminate the infarct-limiting and anti-apoptotic effect of postconditioning (PC). Experiments in rats and mice indicate that the PC may be quite effective in patients with diabetes type 2 or metabolic syndrome. Experimental data suggest that hypertension or the past myocardial infarction is not an obstacle for the implementation of cardioprotective effect of PC. It was established that that aging does not preclude the implementation of PC cardioprotective effect. Inotropic effect of IP can simulate on isolated human atrial trabeculae. The clinical observations suggest that the PC in patients with tetralogy of Fallot and patients with operations on the valves improves the outcome of cardiac surgery. It was established that PC in these patients reduces the intensity of reperfusion necrosis of cardiomyocytes, improves the pumping function of the heart, reduces the inotropic support, shorten the extubation time.
Left atrial appendage occlusion with Amplatzer Cardio Plug is an acceptable therapeutic option for prevention of stroke recurrence in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation and contraindication or failure of oral anticoagulation with acenocumarol
Authors: Hawkes Maximiliano A. , Pertierra Lucía , Rodriguez-Lucci Federico , Pujol-Lereis Virginia A. , Ameriso Sebastián F.
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACT Left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) appears as a therapeutic option for some atrial fibrillation patients not suitable for oral anticoagulation because an increased hemorrhagic risk or recurrent ischemic events despite anticoagulant treatment. Methods Report of consecutive atrial fibrillation patients treated with LAAO with Amplatzer Cardio Plug because contraindication or failure of oral anticoagulation with acenocumarol. CHA2DS2VASC, HAS-BLED, NIHSS, mRS, procedural complications and outcome were assessed. Seven patients (73 ± 6 year-old) were treated after intracerebral (n = 5) and gastrointestinal (n = 1) hemorrhages or ischemic stroke recurrence while on acenocumarol (n = 1). Results Mean follow up was 18 months. Baseline CHA2DS2Vasc y HAS-BLED scores were 5.6 ± 0.7 and 4.1 ± 0.3 respectively. There were no strokes or deaths. There was only one non-serious adverse event. Conclusion LAAO with ACP appears as a feasible therapeutic option for stroke prevention in patients with atrial fibrillation and failure or contraindication to acenocumarol.
Pain, depression and sleep disorders in patients with diabetic and nondiabetic carpal tunnel syndrome: a vicious cycle
Authors: Tanik Nermin , Sarp Umit , Ucar Mehmet , Celikbilek Asuman , Balbaloglu Ozlem , Ak Hakan , Atalay Tugay , Arik Hasan Onur , Okyay Mehmet Yavuz , Inan Levent Ertugrul
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACT Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition involving nerve entrapment that often leads to chronic neuropathic pain. We aimed to evaluate sleep quality and related parameters in diabetic and non-diabetic CTS patients. Method This study included a total of 366 patients with chronic CTS. These patients’ sleep quality was evaluated using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and depression using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). The severity of neuropathic pain was evaluated using the Douleur Neuropathique-4 (DN4) questionnaire and a visual analogue scale (VAS). Results In the non-diabetic patient group, the total PSQI score was found to affect BDI and VAS, while in the diabetic patient group, the duration of symptoms affected VAS, BDI and fasting glucose levels. Conclusion For diabetic patients, hyperglycemia depression and chronification of neuropathic pain may lead to deterioration of sleep quality. Therefore, consideration of these parameters in the treatment may break a vicious cycle.
Growth of silver catfish ( Rhamdia quelen ) exposed to acidic pH at different humic acid levels
Authors: Costa Silvio Teixeira da , Sutili Fernando Jonas , Gressler Luciane Tourem , Loebens Luíza , Colpo Carine Vargas , Lazzari Rafael , Baldisserotto Bernardo
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACT: Humic substances are organic compounds that possess high molecular weight and are formed by the decomposition of plant materials. Humic substances comprise humic acids, fulvic acids and humin. Humic acids (HA) have shown to be able to provide some protection to biological membranes of fish in water with low pH, replacing the protective action of Ca2+. Thus, this studyaimed to observe growth of silver catfish ( Rhamdia quelen ) juveniles exposed to pHs 5.5 and 6.5 and to different levels of HA: 0, 10, 25 and 50mg L-1. Results showed that, irrespective of pH, HA was highly detrimental to silver catfish growth, since the higher the concentration of HA, the lower the weight gain and feed intake, resulting in lower biomass and lower specific growth rate of juveniles. Hence, HA is extremely damaging to the performance of silver catfish juveniles in the tested concentrations.