bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Markets or Mercantilism? How China Secures Its Energy
Supplies
Authors: Lind Jennifer , Press Daryl G.
Published: May 2018

Since oil began fueling the global economy, governments have employed policies of “energy mercantilism” to secure access to this key input. Critics of these policies claim they are unnecessary because oil can be acquired on global markets. Countries such as China that engage in energy mercantilism are thus neither enhancing their energy security nor threatening others' access to oil. These critics, however, misunderstand the logic of energy mercantilism, which is rooted in the economics and business literatures on supply chain management. Firms and states are correct to worry about access to critical supplies under four conditions: imperfect contracting, supplier collusion, geographic concentration, and high risk of conflict. All of these conditions plague the oil industry. Likewise, the energy mercantilist policies that critics deride are analogous to the strategies that firms adopt to protect their supply chains. China's steps to ensure access to oil have enhanced its energy security and reduced U.S. coercive options toward Beijing. More broadly, the unfolding competition over energy access highlights the lingering power of mercantilism, even in this age of economic globalization and the apparent triumph of market liberalism.
Practical Ecclesiology for a Pilgrim Church
Authors: Mulder Sjoerd
Published: May 2018

In recent years, several theologians have argued that ecclesiology can benefit from the method of ethnography, which would make it less systematic and less rigid. This argument can be found, for example, in Nicholas M. Healy’s Church, World and the Christian Life. This article analyses how Healy views ethnography as a possible ecclesiological method, and to what extent he prefers this method over other methods. While Healy suggests that ethnography might be helpful for ecclesiology in general, it will be claimed that his argument in fact assumes and advances a specific pilgrim ecclesiology and a postmodern epistemology. Furthermore, his attempt to push ecclesiology in a more ethnographic direction is weakened by a misinterpretation of older, systematic, so-called ‘blueprint’ ecclesiologies. The article concludes by arguing that, in the secular Western context, ethnography can indeed be a useful ecclesiological tool, as long as it is more explicit about its own theological position than Healy is.
Observing, Interpreting, and Excavating Roman Barrows
Authors: Latteur Olivier
Published: May 2018

Even today, the landscape of some Belgian regions is deeply marked by the presence of dozens of Roman barrows. These mounds have survived the passage of time and have shaped the landscape, from antiquity up to the present-day. In the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, a period characterized by the rediscovery of classical antiquity and the emergence of antiquarianism, travellers and scholars took a fresh look at these remains. The development of a proto-archaeological approach to the landscape gradually transformed the relationship between man and his surrounds, and contributed to a better understanding of certain landscape features.

The first part of this article is devoted to historical observation of these barrows and their impact on the local landscape: Roman tumuli had unusual features (height, strength, presence of trees, etc.) and were used as landmarks and vantage points, especially in the Hesbaye region, which was sparsely wooded and relatively flat. The second part deals with interpretations of these mounds during the early modern period (attribution to the Romans, association with magic, etc.). The third part focuses on the first ‘archaeological’ excavations of tumuli (1507, 1621, 1641, and 1654). These early modern digs gradually transformed perceptions of these remains: observations of a proto-archaeological nature became increasingly common and heralded the emergence of a new approach, which co-existed with medieval or popular traditions.
Development of a path following control model for an unmanned vibratory roller in vibration compaction
Authors: Fang Xiaojun , Bian Yongming , Yang Meng , Liu Guangjun
Published: May 2018

To achieve automatic rolling of an unmanned vibratory roller, the path following control model of the vibratory roller was built and the influence of drum vibration is considered since the roller always works in the vibration condition. The vibration dynamic model was first established. The dynamic model of the vibratory roller under the influence of exciting force was then developed. The heading following control algorithm based on preview strategy was designed to control the path following errors in unmanned automatic rolling. The control performance of the algorithm was analyzed by simulation based on the vibration dynamic model and the dynamic and kinematic models of the vibratory roller. The control performance was also verified by the field automatic rolling experiments. Experimental results show that the maximum absolute lateral error of line path following is 24.5 cm in vibration rolling and 19.5 cm in non-vibration rolling at the traveling speed of 0.83 m/s. The average absolute lateral errors in vibration and non-vibration rolling are both less than 10 cm. The experimental results verify the effectiveness and achievability of the control algorithm for unmanned vibration rolling. Besides, the ratio of completely compacted area to the whole set area is 97.28% in the field automatic rolling experiment, which meets the requirements for practical use.
An elaborate algorithm for automatic processing of eye movement data and identifying fixations in eye-tracking experiments
Authors: Liu Bo , Zhao Qi-Chao , Ren Yuan-Yuan , Wang Qing-Ju , Zheng Xue-Lian
Published: May 2018

High sampling frequency of eye-trackers introduces noise in raw eye movement data. Furthermore, the unstable sampling frequency of devices generates fluctuating time interval between samples, which has negative influence on the quality of raw eye movement data. Therefore, the article aims to propose a valid and universal procedure on raw eye movement data processing. The procedure will be suitable for eye movement data collected by most types of eye-trackers. Characteristics of raw eye movement data were analyzed, and a comprehensive data processing procedure was proposed. Steps in this procedure include preliminary inspection of raw data, the checking and correction of actual sampling frequency, the selection of eye movement data, small gaps filled-in, data filtering, and fixation identification. By this procedure, raw eye movement data collected by eye-trackers can be used to identify types of eye movements and obtain fixation points in eye-tracking experiment. In the end, a paradigm test was designed to examine the correctness of data processing flow, and the application of eye movement data was also discussed.
New patient-controlled abdominal compression method in radiography: radiation dose and image quality
Authors: Piippo-Huotari Oili , Norrman Eva , Anderzén-Carlsson Agneta , Geijer Håkan
Published: May 2018

Background

The radiation dose for patients can be reduced with many methods and one way is to use abdominal compression. In this study, the radiation dose and image quality for a new patient-controlled compression device were compared with conventional compression and compression in the prone position .

Purpose

To compare radiation dose and image quality of patient-controlled compression compared with conventional and prone compression in general radiography.

Material and Methods

An experimental design with quantitative approach. After obtaining the approval of the ethics committee, a consecutive sample of 48 patients was examined with the standard clinical urography protocol. The radiation doses were measured as dose-area product and analyzed with a paired t-test. The image quality was evaluated by visual grading analysis. Four radiologists evaluated each image individually by scoring nine criteria modified from the European quality criteria for diagnostic radiographic images.

Results

There was no significant difference in radiation dose or image quality between conventional and patient-controlled compression. Prone position resulted in both higher dose and inferior image quality.

Conclusion

Patient-controlled compression gave similar dose levels as conventional compression and lower than prone compression. Image quality was similar with both patient-controlled and conventional compression and was judged to be better than in the prone position.
Against the Stream: religion and mental health – the case for the inclusion of religion and spirituality into psychiatric care
Authors: Dein Simon
Published: May 2018

This paper argues for the inclusion of religion and spirituality in psychiatric care. After discussing the antagonism of psychiatrists and psychologists to religion, I present a critical overview of studies examining the relationships between spirituality, religion and diverse aspects of mental health: depression, suicide, anxiety, delinquency, drug abuse and schizophrenia. The need to assesses the impact of religion in different faith groups is discussed. Measures of religious coping, both positive and negative, may provide a more accurate portrayal as to how individuals deploy religion in their lives than global measures such as belief and attendance. I highlight the fact that there is a dearth of research on ritual, prayer and other aspects of religious experience. While many studies demonstrate positive effects of religion on mental health, others find detrimental effects. Finally I examine the clinical implications of these findings.

Declaration of interest

None.
Hypoglycemia After Gastric Bypass Surgery: Current Concepts and Controversies
Authors: Salehi Marzieh , Vella Adrian , McLaughlin Tracey , Patti Mary-Elizabeth
Published: May 2018

Context

Hypoglycemia, occurring after bariatric and other forms of upper gastrointestinal surgery, is increasingly encountered by clinical endocrinologists. The true frequency of this condition remains uncertain, due, in part, to differences in the diagnostic criteria and in the affected populations, as well as relative lack of patient and physician awareness and understanding of this condition. Postbariatric hypoglycemia can be severe and disabling for some patients, with neuroglycopenia (altered cognition, seizures, and loss of consciousness) leading to falls, motor vehicle accidents, and job and income loss. Moreover, repeated episodes of hypoglycemia can result in hypoglycemia unawareness, further impairing safety and requiring the assistance of others to treat hypoglycemia.

Objective

In this review, we summarize and integrate data from studies of patients affected by hypoglycemia after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) surgery, obtained from PubMed searches (1990 to 2017) and reference searches of relevant retrieved articles. Whereas hypoglycemia can also be observed after sleeve gastrectomy and fundoplication, this review is focused on post-RYGB, given the greater body of published clinical studies at present.

Outcome Measures

Data addressing specific aspects of diagnosis, pathophysiology, and treatment were reviewed by the authors; when not available, the authors have provided opinions based on clinical experience with this challenging condition.

Conclusions

Hypoglycemia, occurring after gastric bypass surgery, is challenging for patients and physicians alike. This review provides a systematic approach to diagnosis and treatment based on the underlying pathophysiology.
Adipose Tissue Responses to Breaking Sitting in Men and Women with Central Adiposity
Authors: CHEN YUNG-CHIH , BETTS JAMES A. , WALHIN JEAN-PHILIPPE , THOMPSON DYLAN
Published: May 2018

Purpose

Breaking prolonged sitting reduces postprandial glucose and insulin concentrations and influences skeletal muscle molecular signaling pathways, but it is unknown whether breaking sitting also affects adipose tissue.

Methods

Eleven central overweight participants (seven men and four postmenopausal women) 50 ± 5 yr old (mean ± SD) completed two mixed-meal feeding trials (prolonged sitting vs breaking sitting) in a randomized, counterbalanced design. The breaking sitting intervention comprised walking for 2 min every 20 min over 5.5 h. Blood samples were collected at regular intervals to examine metabolic biomarkers and adipokine concentrations. Adipose tissue samples were collected at baseline and at 5.5 h to examine changes in mRNA expression and secretion of selected adipokines ex vivo.

Results

Postprandial glycemia and insulinemia were attenuated by approximately 50% and 40% in breaking sitting compared with prolonged sitting (iAUC: 359 ± 117 vs 697 ± 218 mmol per 330 min·L−1, P = 0.001, and 202 ± 71 vs 346 ± 150 nmol per 330 min·L−1, P = 0.001, respectively). Despite these pronounced and sustained differences in postprandial glucose and insulin concentrations, adipose tissue mRNA expression for various genes (interleukin 6, leptin, adiponectin, pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase isozyme 4, insulin receptor substrates 1 and 2, phosphoinositide 3-kinase, and RAC-alpha serine/threonine-protein kinase) and ex vivo adipose tissue secretion of interleukin 6, leptin, and adiponectin were not different between trials.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that breaking sitting with short bouts of physical activity has very pronounced effects on systemic postprandial glucose and insulin concentrations, but this does not translate into corresponding effects within adipose tissue.
Cytotoxicity of Contrast Media Iohexol on IL-1beta stimulated Bovine Chondrocytes
Authors: HONG G. , HWANG Y. , KIM G.
Published: May 2018

The aim of this study was to determine the cytotoxic and metabolic effects of iohexol on cultured bovine chondrocytes in clinical dose. Chondrocytes were exposed to 50%, 25% and 12.5% iohexol and 50% mannitol for 2 hours. Cell proliferation, apoptosis and necrosis were analyzed. Real time PCR was performed for aggrecan, collagen type I and II gene expression. Cells in alginate beads stimulated by interleukin-1β (IL-1β) were analyzed for cytotoxicity. MTT assay showed that 50% iohexol inhibited the proliferation of cells at 2 hours culture period. Propidium iodide results showed significantly higher dead cells at 50% iohexol compared to control, however PCR results revealed that chondrogenic gene were not affected. Cells in alginate beads stimulated with IL-1β showed significantly higher percentage of dead cells at 50% iohexol exposure (p<0.05). These results suggested that iohexol has a cytotoxicity on chondrocytes and this cytotoxic effect possibly increased in inflammatory joint diseases.
Efficacy of recombinant VAXXITEK HVT-IBDv vaccine against very virulent Infectious bursal disease virus (vvIBDv) challenge in layer chicks: A pilot study
Authors: DAČIĆ M. , RESANOVIC R. , RASIC Z. , VALCIC M. , MILOVANOVIC A. , VELHNER M.
Published: May 2018

The infectious bursal disease virus (IBDv) is widespread in poultry flocks all around the world. Various biotypes have emerged and because of that, adequate management practices and vaccination of chicks are of paramount importance for the protection against field strains. One day old Lohmann Brown chicks were vaccinated with intermediate vaccines and the recombinant VAXXITEK HVT-IBDv vaccine formulation, and challenged at 48 days of life with the very virulent IBDv (vvIBDv) strain CH/99. The best protection (100%) was achieved with the recombinant vaccine administered by the subcutaneous or intramuscular route at a day old, while intermediate and intermediate plus vaccines protected 80% of birds from clinical symptoms. The highest bursa body ratio (5.33, 3.50 and 4.12) was accomplished in non- vaccinated and non-challenged birds and birds vaccinated with the VAXXITEK HVT-IBDv vaccine. The recombinant VAXXITEK HVT-IBDv vaccine has provided protection for commercial chicks against challenge with the vvIBDv strain in this experiment. Under field conditions, additional vaccination is possibly needed with supplementary application of live attenuated vaccines. However, the recombinant vector vaccines are providing significant aid against clinical signs and immunosupression caused by the vvIBDv.
Polymorphism of ompH gene of Pasteurella multocida serotype A strains isolated in Iran
Authors: OULAD M. , TAHAMTAN Y. , SOHRABI N.
Published: May 2018

One of the most frequent causes of respiratory infection and death in sheep and goats is Pasteurella multocida. In humans, it has been associated with diseases of the respiratory tracts, arthritis, osteomyelitis and meningitis. Outer membrane protein H (OmpH) has a role in immunogenicity and pathogenicity of P. multocida. The aim of this study was to characterize the genetic diversity of ompH gene of a panel of P. multocida serotype A strains isolated in sheep. Forty P. multocida serotype A strains isolated in previous study were selected and analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) of a species-specific PCR assay. RFLP amplified fragment produced five different cleavage patterns. On the basis of combinations resulting from ompH gene digestion, the 40 P. multocida isolates were classified in six RFLP type. It seems that isolates with variants genetic profile represent different pathogenecity. New vaccine formulation should consider multivariants of P. multocida in order to confer a wider protection.
Prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of Salmonella isolated from bovine and ovine samples in slaughterhouses of Algiers, Algeria
Authors: NOUICHI S. , OUATOUAT R. , CAN H. Y. , MEZALI L. , BELKADER C. , OUAR- KORICHI M. , BERTRAND S. , CANTEKIN Z. , HAMDI T. Y.
Published: May 2018

The aims of our work are to estimate the prevalence of Salmonella isolated from carcasses and feces of cattle and sheep in the two biggest slaughterhouses in Algiers, Algeria, and to characterize the obtained strains by serotyping and antimicrobial resistance testing. The detection of Salmonella was performed by the conventional culture method and isolates were confirmed by PCR. Susceptibility to antibiotics was carried out by agar disc diffusion method. The results showed that 10.17% of samples were Salmonella positive. Carcass samples were more contaminated than fecal samples. Serotyping of the 84 Salmonella isolates has enabled to identify 10 different serovars; the most predominant was S. Muenster. The invA gene was detected in 96.43% of isolates whereas all S. Typhimurium strains were positive for spy gene. Sixty-eight (80.95%) isolates were resistant to at least one of the 28 antibiotics tested and exhibited 17 different antimicrobial resistance patterns. The most frequently observed resistance was to streptomycin (69.05%). While 22.62 % of the isolates were MDR, two S. Typhimurium showed an‘‘ACSSuT’’ pentaresistance pattern. Considering the importance of this group of bacteria for public health, Salmonella control is necessary at several steps of food production to ensure safe products for consumers.
Modelling credit and savings behaviour of chit fund participants
Authors: Rao Preethi , Buteau Sharon
Published: May 2018

Chit funds are a form of Rotating Saving and Credit Association (ROSCA) prevalent in India. In this institution, a group of individuals pool in equal amounts of money at a fixed frequency, and at every time period a round of competitive bidding takes place among the individuals to identify a borrower for the collected amount. The borrower foregoes his/her right to participate in further auctions, but continues paying his/her share of the pool till every individual in the group has collected the pooled amount. The auction process relies on the bidders’ willingness to give up a certain amount of the pool and take the rest as loan. The amount given up at every time period is shared equally among all individuals in the group.

A chit fund, therefore, is structurally similar to the modern formal banking and financial institutions: they act as an intermediary to optimally mobilize funds collected from savers to borrowers and manage repayment of loans from borrowers such that savers receive their dues at the appropriate time. The latter role exposes the industry to credit risk.

Modern banking and financial institutions rely heavily on their ability to assess and mitigate credit risk; and, over the last century, they have been able to move from a system where risk assessment was based on human judgment and simple intuition to a system reliant on statistical and mathematical techniques. However, the standard chit fund company still relies heavily on human judgment for assessing risk. The pilot envisages a move towards a standardized statistical methodology for risk assessment and mitigation as the path ahead for the industry.
Why do paramedics have a high rate of self-referral?
Authors: van der Gaag Anna , Jago Robert , Austin Zubin , Zasada Magdalena , Banks Sarah , Gallagher Ann , Lucas Grace
Published: May 2018

Paramedics have been regulated in the UK since 2003. Analysis shows that the profession has had consistently higher rates of self-referral to its regulator compared with other health and care professions. Between 2013 and 2016, the percentage of paramedics who self-referred averaged 50% of all cases, compared with 6% across all other health professions regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and 10% across social workers in England. This article reports on possible reasons underlying this trend. Using a mixed-methods approach including a literature review, interviews, focus groups and case analysis, the study identified a number of possible contributory factors. These included pressurised work environments, variable guidance and support from employers, and work cultures of fear and conflict. The evolving nature of the profession was also cited. The research found that there was a cohort of cases that appeared inappropriate—where the referral was for a matter that did not require reporting. Actions are being taken to reduce such self-referrals to avoid the emotional distress and resource implications for those involved.
BIOMASS AND CRUDE PROTEIN OF TWO FORAGES FERTIGATED WITH TREATED DOMESTIC SEWAGE
Authors: Garcia Giovanni De Oliveira , Machado Riggo Michelle , Avelino Cecílio Roberto , Fialho dos Reis Edvaldo , Bergamim Mellere José Guilherme
Published: May 2018

The reuse of wastewater in agricultural activities has been identified as alternative to final disposal of minimal risk to the environment. Accordingly, in order to assess the yield and crude protein content of forages Tifton 85 (Cynodon spp.) and Marandu grass (Brachiaria brizantha) fertigated with treated domestic sewage compared with those grown with mineral fertilizer, two split plot experiments were set: one with each species at 5x3 factorial arrangement and five repetitions. The factors in the plots corresponded to five treatments, one fertilized with mineral fertilizer in which was applied 40 kg ha-1 of nitrogen and four fertigated with treated domestic sewage in the dosages of 20, 40, 60 and 80 kg ha-1 of nitrogen and, three plant sections in the subplots. After each section the plant material had its green mass determined and then sent to the laboratory for measurement of dry mass. Also in the laboratory, the crude protein content was determined. The application of treated wastewater used in the form of fertigation resulted in increased biomass and crude protein reflecting better nutritional value of forages studied.
EQUAÇÃO DE HARGREAVES-SAMANI CALIBRADA EM DIFERENTES BASES TEMPORAIS PARA SETE LAGOAS, MG
Authors: Borges Júnior João Carlos Ferreira , Oliveira Aline Lilian Marques , Andrade Camilo De Lelis Teixeira de , Pinheiro Marcus André Braido
Published: May 2018

Dados de evapotranspiração de referência (ETo) são requeridos em diversas análises relacionadas ao uso de recursos hídricos, como no manejo de irrigação, balanço hídrico de sequeiro, manejo de bacias hidrográficas, etc. O método FAO Penman-Monteith (FAO-PM) é considerado padrão para cálculo da ETo. Contudo, a aplicação deste método pode ser restringida pela falta de dados meteorológicos. Um dos métodos alternativos com menor requisição de dados é o Hargreaves-Samani (HS), o qual comumente necessita calibração local para obtenção de maior exatidão na aplicação. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho do método Hargreaves-Samani, na sua forma original e calibrado em base anual, semestral, trimestral e mensal, frente ao método padrão FAO-PM, com base em extensa série histórica de dados meteorológicos diários (86 anos), para a localidade de Sete Lagoas, MG. Calibraram-se os coeficientes e o expoente da equação de HS pela minimização do erro absoluto médio (EAM). Para avaliar a adequabilidade de aplicação de testes comparativos e para determinar o ajuste das distribuições de probabilidade de ETo, foram aplicados os testes de Kolmogorov-Smirnov e Mann-Whitney, respectivamente. A calibração do método HS anulou a tendência de superestimativa sistemática dos valores de ETo diária, comparativamente ao FAO-PM, reduzindo-se o EAM. A calibração em diferentes bases temporais acarretou a aproximação das distribuições de probabilidade de ETo calculada por meio do método HS, que não diferiram significativamente entre si, à obtida com o método FAO-PM.
AGUA RESIDUAL DE SUINOCULTURA EN ATRIBUTOS QUÍMICOS DEL SUELO Y TENORES FOLIARES DE SOJA Y MAÍZ
Authors: Neto Alfredo Alves , Lana Maria Do Carmo , Rampim Leandro , Coppo Jéssica Caroline , Mendonça Costa Luiz Antonio de
Published: May 2018

El uso de abonos orgánicos a través del agua residual de suinocultura (ARS) puede afectar positivamente los atributos químicos del suelo, debiendo ser monitoreado, debido a que un exceso puede constituir un alto contaminante ambiental. El objetivo de este trabajo fue evaluar las alteraciones de atributos químicos del suelo y tenores foliares de los cultivos de soja y maíz segunda zafra en función de aplicaciones de dosis de ARS. El experimento fue conducido en un Rhodic Kandiudox, bajo sistema de siembra directa, en el Centro de Investigación de la Cooperativa Agroindustrial Consolata. Fue utilizado un diseño experimental de bloques al azar con parcelas subdivididas, siendo colocadas en las parcelas principales dosis de 0, 35, 70,105 e 140 m3 ha-1 año-1de ARS, e en las subparcelas, dos niveles de fertilización mineral (ausencia y presencia), para la soja fueron aplicados 300 kg ha-1 de la formulación 04-24-16 en el momento de la siembra y para el maíz segunda zafra 300 kg ha-1 de la formulación 10-15-10 durante el periodo comprendido de setiembre de 2013 a agosto de 2014. Posteriormente a la cosecha de maíz, fueron colectadas muestras de suelo en las camadas de 0-0,10 m e 0,10-0,20 m, determinándose carbono orgánico, P, K, Cu y Zn, además de la determinación de tenores foliares de N, P, K, Cu y Zn en los cultivos de soja y maíz de segunda zafra. La aplicación de ARS aumentó los tenores de P en las camadas 0-0,10 m e 0,10-0,20 m y en los tenores foliares de soja, demostrando que nutrientes contenidos en el ARS pueden ser aprovechados por los cultivos. Las dosis de 105 e 140 m3 ha-1 año-1 deben ser evitadas debido a la alta concentración de N y aumento excesivo de tenores de P en el suelo, que pueden constituir un riesgo ambiental.
ATRIBUTOS QUÍMICOS DO SOLO E PRODUTIVIDADE DO FEIJOEIRO DE INVERNO SOB PLANTIO DIRETO NO CERRADO DE BAIXA ALTITUDE
Authors: Cavallini da Silva Maria Cecília , Andreotti Marcelo , Passos e Carvalho Morel , Costa Nídia Raquel , Rocha Lima Cesar Gustavo
Published: May 2018

O conhecimento da variabilidade dos atributos químicos do solo é de suma importância para um manejo eficiente com vistas ao melhor desempenho produtivo das culturas. A presente pesquisa objetivou avaliar a variabilidade e as correlações lineares e espaciais entre os atributos da produtividade do feijoeiro de inverno com atributos químicos de um Latossolo Vermelho Distroférrico sob sistema de plantio direto, na região do Cerrado sul-mato-grossense. Para tanto instalou-se uma rede amostral para a coleta de dados do solo e da planta, com 124 pontos, em uma área de 4.000 m2. Os atributos do solo foram: teor de fósforo (P), matéria orgânica (MO), e o pH (pH), determinados nas profundidades de 0 - 0,10 m e 0,10 - 0,20 m. Avaliou-se as correlações simples e múltiplas entre os atributos das plantas com os atributos do solo e posteriormente foi realizada a análise de dependência e correlação espacial. A produtividade de feijão apresentou correlação linear direta com a matéria orgânica (0,10 - 0,20 m), e com o pH do solo (na camada de 0 - 0,10 m). Espacialmente, com exceção da MO e do pH na camada de 0 - 0,10 m, os demais atributos apresentaram dependência espacial. Do ponto de vista prático do manejo de solo, o pH (0,10 - 0,20 m) destacou-se como um apreciável indicador da qualidade química, evidenciando áreas específicas de manejo diretamente correlacionada com a produtividade do feijoeiro.
OTIMIZAÇÃO ENERGÉTICA DE UM TRATOR AGRÍCOLA UTILIZANDO NORMAS TÉCNICAS EM OPERAÇÕES DE GRADAGEM
Authors: Martins Murilo Battistuzzi , Sandi Jefferson , Souza Fábio Lopes de , Santos Ronilson De Souza , Lanças Kléber Pereira
Published: May 2018

A operação de gradagem é uma técnica bastante utilizada no preparo do solo, devido ao rendimento operacional e à otimização do consumo de combustível durante a atividade, a mesma gera redução nos custos operacionais. Este trabalho teve por objetivo a otimização energética de um trator agrícola, utilizando normas técnicas em operações de gradagem. O experimento foi realizado na área experimental da Fazenda Lageado da Faculdade de Ciências Agronômicas – FCA da Universidade Estadual Paulista - UNESP, localizada no município de Botucatu-SP. Para tracionar as grades, foi utilizado um trator agrícola 4X2 TDA com potência de 143,4 kw no motor. Os tratamentos foram 3 operações de campo (gradagem pesada, intermediária e leve) e 2 rotações do motor (2200 rpm e 1650rpm), sendo avaliado a velocidade de deslocamento, força de tração, capacidade de campo efetiva, consumo combustível operacional e consumo horário de combustível. Foi possível observar que em todos os tratamentos, a utilização das normas técnicas, segundo a OECD (ORGANISATION FOR ECONOMIC CO-OPERATION), otimizou o consumo de combustível do trator agrícola.
CONJUNTO PARA AVALIAÇÃO DINÂMICA DO DESEMPENHO DE TRATORES AGRÍCOLAS
Authors: Alves Beethoven Gabriel Xavier , Reis Elton Fialho dos
Published: May 2018

Determinar o desempenho operacional de máquinas agrícolas ocasionalmente torna-se uma tarefa difícil, devido às variações de carga ao longo do trajeto. Este trabalho teve como objetivo desenvolver e avaliar um carro dinamométrico preparado para mensurar o desempenho de tratores agrícolas em diferentes condições operacionais. O conjunto foi instrumentado com célula de carga, sensor magnético e ﬂuxômetro capazes de monitorar a força disponível na barra de tração, o número de voltas dos rodados do trator e o consumo de combustível, respectivamente. Foram montados três experimentos: o primeiro para avaliação do processo de frenagem do carro dinamométrico; o segundo para avaliar o processo de aquisição automatizado do número de voltas dos rodados do trator e o terceiro para avaliação do consumo de combustível. Os processos foram examinados por meio de análise de variância, teste de médias e, quanto à estabilidade, por meio de cartas de controle de processos. O equipamento desenvolvido para avaliação dinâmica de tratores mostrou-se capaz de impor cargas à barra de tração do trator e fazer a coleta dos dados para os ensaios com precisão. A força imposta à barra e o consumo de combustível alcançaram valores médios esperados. A adaptação de um sensor magnético para monitorar o número de voltas das rodas mostrou-se eficaz, não havendo diferença das voltas quanto às contadas visualmente e automaticamente.
Giant Isolated Hydatid Cyst of Spleen
Authors: Soufi Mehdi , Kharrasse Ghizlane , wafae Khanoussi , Ismaili Zahi , haroudi Tijani El , Bouziane Mohammed
Published: May 2018

Liver is most commonly involved organ in hydatid cyst. Primary splenic hydatid cysts are rare; we report a case of an isolated giant hydatid cyst of spleen in a 17-year-old man. The diagnosis was confirmed by imaging findings and serology. Partial cystectomy was performed with success. In cystic lesions of spleen, hydatid cyst should be kept in patrician’s mind in the differential diagnosis. Although splenectomy is the gold standard for treating hydatid disease of the spleen, in young patient spleen-preserving surgery seems give good results.
The diagnostic criteria of "weight loss plateau" phenomenon in the treatment of obesity
Authors: Golaido Elena M. , Galitskaya Anna V.
Published: May 2018

Background. The phenomenon of "weight loss plateau" is not fully understood, and because of this practitioners may reasonably have difficulties in determining its truth or falsity; there is no clear boarders to identify this condition.
Aims. To generate diagnostic criteria of "weight loss plateau" phenomenon useful for estimating the rate of weight gain dynamics in the treatment of obesity.
Materials and methods. Statistical analysis of basal metabolism (BM) calculated level (the sample mean and sample standard deviation) on the basis of potential mathematically matched anthropometric data with subsequent determination of the proportion of these BM values difference in overweight and obesity patients, and numbers of the desired weight.
Results. Formation of a numeric array on theoretically inherent output, obtained the average proportion of the difference between present BM values and recommended indicators that are proposed to be guided to determine the phenomenon of "weight loss plateau" in the process of diet therapy of obesity.
Conclusions. Authors offer available for using algorithm, which allows establish the potential availability of "weight loss plateau" phenomenon and its truth or falsity on different stages of weight loss process in obesity. These arguments need further scientific dialogue and research.
Inherited and acquired lipodystrophies: molecular-genetic and autoimmune mechanisms
Authors: Sorkina Ekaterina L. , Tiulpakov Anatoly N.
Published: May 2018

Lipodystrophy syndromes form a heterogenous group of inherited or acquired rare disorders, characterized by total (generalized lipodystrophy) or partial fat loss (partial lipodystrophy), usually accompanied by different metabolic disorders. Based on etiology lipodystrophies can be inherited or acquired. As a result of a significant progress in molecular genetics 20 new genes, associated with different lipodystrophy syndromes, were discovered during the last 20 years. However according to the majority of researchers data mutations in these causative genes are not found in approximately half of the patients. This might mean the need for both further molecular-genetic studies and the search for autoimmune factors playing a role in lipodystrophy syndromes etiology.
Micro Friction Stir Welding Process: State of the Art
Authors: Mishra Akshansh
Published: May 2018

IMicro friction stir welding (µFSW) process is mainly adapted from the Friction Stir Welding Process. This process is
mainly used for joining dissimilar materials. Micro friction stir welding (µFSW) find its applications in thin walled
structures, electrical, electronic and micro-mechanical assemblies. The significant challenges are faced when we
downscale to achieve µFSW. This paper addresses the current state of the understanding and development of Micro
friction stir welding. This paper further outlines the results achieved after Micro friction stir processing of Aluminium
alloys, Copper alloys and Zinc alloys.
Concrete Slabs’ Initial Cracks Assessment using Ground Penetrating Radar
Authors: Ziboon Abdul Razzak T. , Mohammed Nisreen S. , Mohammed Nisreen S. , Hamad Anaam G.
Published: May 2018

Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) is extensively used by a multiple group of service providers that incorporate
agronomist, archaeologists, criminologists, engineers, environmental specialists, foresters, geologists, geophysicists,
hydrologists, land use managers, and soil scientists. In engineering applications include Non-Destructive Testing
(NDT) of structures and pavements and locating buried structures etc. GPR is a relatively new geophysical tool that
has become increasingly popular due to its high resolution and the need to better understand near-surface
conditions. In this paper GPR is applied to six concrete slabs. Radar measurements were performed using a 1000 MHz
RAMAC GPR CU-II. Two concrete slabs weren’t reinforced, two have simple reinforcement, and the last two have
artificial gaps in their reinforcement. Tests were taken after applying 40% of the slabs’ failure loads. Experiments
resulted that the extent and severity of the fatigue cracking was possible to be monitored. In addition, the technique
was assistive in determining the failure caused by loading reflected by radargrams.
Experimental Investigation of Drag Reduction with polymer of Kerosene flow in a horizontal pipe
Authors: Alwan Adil Abbas , Mohammad Ali Jassim
Published: May 2018

flow, where adding certain amount of drag reducing agent, such as polymer. From addition of that agent, it causes a
dramatic frictional drag reduction. This work shows the effect of the pressure drop on a drag reduction along pipe in
a horizontal placing with kerosene flow is investigated. The tested fluid was kerosene and poly isobutylene polymer
(PIB) with 50 ppm (part per million), 75 ppm, and 100 ppm weight concentration of polymer: Experimental
investigation gives more description of this phenomenon. The experimental results illustrate that pressure drop and
pressure gradient decreases with increasing of polymer concentration and volume flow rate. The friction factor
decreases with increasing of additive concentration and velocity. The drag reduction percentage increases with
increasing the mean velocity, polymer concentration and temperature. The experimental results show that maximum
drag reduction (DR %) about 19%.
Neolycaena (Rhymnaria) arcana sp. nov. from Tibet (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae)
Authors: Weidenhoffer Zdeněk , Šumpich Jan
Published: May 2018

Neolycaena (Rhymnaria) arcana sp. nov. (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae: Theclinae: Eumaeini) was discovered in an old collection of Lepidoptera in the National Museum in Prague and subsequently described from one male. This specimen undoubtedly originates from the period before 1950, and its label contains only ‘Tibet’. The new species is morphologically similar to other taxa of the subgenus Rhymnaria Zhdanko, 1983 from which it clearly differs in the arrangement of dots on the underside of hindwings as well as in characters of male genitalia. Photos of the holotype and its genitalia are given.
L’analyse sur la Négation Explétive en Chinois-Mandarin à Travers sa Comparaison avec le Français
Authors: Baiyao Zuo
Published: May 2018

Extrait

The pleonastic negation refers to the negation without negative function. Because of this special property, many studies have tried to find the producing mechanism of the pleonastic negation. But so far all the explanations of the production of the pleonastic negation, although restricted to one particular language, have encountered some counterexamples. In order to explain the production of pleonastic negation in Chinese and also provide a possibility to explain the same phenomena in other languages, this article lauches a comparison between the Chinese and the French to exclude the elements irrelevant with the production of the pleonastic negation. It is also proposed that the pleonastic negation results from a subconscious blending of two expressions but is reserved because of its function to emphasize the subjective feeling. This approach helps to explain the contingence of the presence of the pleonastic negative marker after the trigger-items.
Über die Idee und das Wirkliche (Teil III)
Authors: Woldering Guido
Published: May 2018

Dieser Beitrag ist der abschliessende dritte Teil der Übersetzung der Summe von Ishibashi Ningetsus (石橋忍月, 1865–1926) poetologischen Überlegungen. Die literaturhistorische Bedeutung des Texts besteht in der Einführung eines weder regional noch historisch eingeschränkten, ausserdem auch alle Textsorten einschliessenden Konzepts der „Poesie“ (shi 詩), das sich klar vom klassischen Begriff der Schriftgelehrsamkeit (bungaku 文学) unterscheidet. Die japanische Literatur entwickelt sich damit zu einem vollwertigen Bestandteil eines autonomen Feldes „Kunst“. Eine weitere Leistung des Sō jitsu ron besteht in der Integration traditioneller japanischer und moderner europäischer theoretischer Ansätze. Das macht den Text zu einem Meilenstein auf dem Weg zu einer selbständigen japanischen wissenschaftlich-theoretischen Auseinandersetzung mit der eigenen Literatur.
Overexpression and pre-treatment of recombinant human Secretory Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor (rhSLPI) reduces an in vitro ischemia/reperfusion injury in rat cardiac myoblast (H9c2) cell
Authors: Prompunt Eakkapote , Nernpermpisooth Nitirut , Sanit Jantira , Kumphune Sarawut
Published: May 2018

One of the major causes of cardiac cell death during myocardial ischemia is the oversecretion of protease enzymes surrounding the ischemic tissue. Therefore, inhibition of the protease activity could be an alternative strategy for preventing the expansion of the injured area. In the present study, we investigated the effects of Secretory Leukocyte Protease Inhibitor (SLPI), by means of overexpression and treatment of recombinant human SLPI (rhSLPI) in an in vitro model. Rat cardiac myoblast (H9c2) cells overexpressing rhSLPI were generated by gene delivery using pCMV2-SLPI-HA plasmid. The rhSLPI-H9c2 cells, mock transfected cells, and wild-type (WT) control were subjected to simulated ischemia/reperfusion (sI/R). Moreover, the treatment of rhSLPI in H9c2 cells was also performed under sI/R conditions. The results showed that overexpression of rhSLPI in H9c2 cells significantly reduced sI/R-induced cell death and injury, intracellular ROS level, and increased Akt phosphorylation, when compared to WT and mock transfection (p <0.05). Treatment of rhSLPI prior to sI/R reduced cardiac cell death and injury, and intra-cellular ROS level. In addition, 400 ng/ml rhSLPI treatment, prior to sI, significantly inhibited p38 MAPK phosphorylation and rhSLPI at 400–1000 ng/ml could increase Akt phosphorylation.
Establishing reference intervals for sex hormones and SHBG in apparently healthy Chinese adult men based on a multicenter study
Authors: Yu Songlin , Qiu Ling , Liu Min , Li Shijun , Tao Zhihua , Zhang Qiong , Xia Liangyu , Li Pengchang , Hou Li’an , Qin Xuzhen , Yin Yicong , Ichihara Kiyoshi , Cheng Xinqi
Published: May 2018

Background:

Measuring sex hormones is essential in diagnosing health issues such as testicular dysfunction, male infertility and feminization syndrome. However, there are no reports on reference intervals (RIs) in Chinese men. We conducted a nationwide multicenter study to establish RIs for seven sex hormones (luteinizing hormone [LH], follicle-stimulating hormone [FSH], prolactin [PRL], total testosterone [TT], free testosterone [FT], bioavailable testosterone [BAT] and estrogen [E2]), as well as sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG).

Methods:

In 2013, 1043 apparently healthy adult men from five representative cities in China (Beijing, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Dalian and Urumqi) were recruited; hormones were measured using an automated immunoassay analyzer. Multiple regression analysis (MRA) was performed to identify sources of variation (SVs) that might influence the hormone serum levels. RIs were computed using the parametric method.

Results:

Dalian and Hangzhou had significantly higher E2 values than other cities; age was a major source of variation for FSH, LH, PRL, SHBG, FT and BAT. FSH, LH and SHBG increased significantly with age, while PRL, FT and BAT decreased with age. TT showed no significant age-related changes. Median (RIs) derived without partition by age were as follows: FSH, 5.6 (1.9–16.3) IU/L; LH, 4.2 (1.6–10.0) IU/L; PRL, 189 (88–450) mIU/L; E2, 85 (4.7–195) pmol/L; SHBG, 29.4 (11.5–66.3) nmol/L; TT, 15.6 (7.4–24.5) nmol/L; FT, 0.31 (0.16–0.52) nmol/L; and BAT, 8.0 (3.7–13.2) nmol/L. RIs were also derived in accordance with between-city and between-age differences.

Conclusions: RIs were established for sex hormones and SHBG in apparently healthy Chinese men in consideration of age.
On cohomological Hall algebras of quivers: Generators
Authors: Schiffmann Olivier , Vasserot Eric
Published: May 2018

We study the cohomological Hall algebra

Y
♭

{\operatorname{Y}\nolimits^{\flat}}

of a Lagrangian substack

Λ
♭

{\Lambda^{\flat}}

of the moduli stack of
representations of
the preprojective algebra of an arbitrary quiver Q, and their actions on the cohomology of Nakajima quiver varieties.
We prove that

Y
♭

{\operatorname{Y}\nolimits^{\flat}}

is pure and we compute its Poincaré polynomials in terms of (nilpotent) Kac
polynomials. We also provide a family of algebra generators.
We conjecture that

Y
♭

{\operatorname{Y}\nolimits^{\flat}}

is equal, after a suitable extension of scalars,
to the Yangian

𝕐

{\mathbb{Y}}

introduced by Maulik and Okounkov.
As a corollary, we prove a variant of Okounkov’s conjecture, which is a generalization of the Kac conjecture relating the constant term of Kac polynomials to root multiplicities of Kac–Moody algebras.
Correlation between plasma concentrations of tramadol and its metabolites and the incidence of seizure in tramadol-intoxicated patients
Authors: Ahmadimanesh Mahnaz , Shadnia Shahin , Rouini Mohammad Reza , Sheikholeslami Behjat , Ahsani Nasab Sara , Ghazi-Khansari Mahmoud
Published: May 2018

Background:

Seizure is one of the important symptoms of tramadol poisoning, but its causes are still unknown. The aim of this study is to find a relationship between tramadol and the concentrations of its metabolites versus the incidence of seizures following the consumption of high doses of tramadol.

Methods:

For this purpose, the blood samples of 120 tramadol-intoxicated patients were collected. The patients were divided in two groups (seizure and non-seizure). The concentrations of tramadol and its metabolites (M1, M2 and M5) were measured by using a high-performance liquid chromatography method. The relationship between tramadol and the levels of its metabolites and seizure incidences was also investigated.

Results:

In 72% of the patients, seizures occurred in the first 3 h after the ingestion of tramadol. The seizure incidences were significantly correlated with the patients’ gender, concentrations of tramadol, M1 and M2 and the history of previous seizures (p<0.001). The average concentration of M2 was significantly higher in males (p=0.003). A previous history of the use of sedative-hypnotics and the co-ingestion of benzodiazepines and other opioids were shown to significantly decrease the rate of seizure. The rate of seizure was directly related to the concentrations of tramadol and its metabolites. Higher M2 concentration in males can be considered a reason for increased incidences of seizures in males. The plasma concentration of M1 affected the onset of seizure.

Conclusions:

Therefore, it can be concluded that differences in the levels of the metabolites can affect the threshold of seizure in tramadol-intoxicated patients.
8-Prenylnaringenin from hop (Humulus lupulus L.) – a panacea for menopause?
Authors: Minecka Aldona , Zych Maria , Kaczmarczyk-Sedlak Ilona
Published: May 2018

8-Prenylnaryngenin (8-PN) is the strongest known phytoestrogen (PE). Its main source is the female inflorescences of hops (Humulus lupulus L.). 8-PN, which, in contrast to other PEs, is proven to have stronger activity and higher affinity for the α subtype of estrogen receptor (ER). Therefore, it may be an effective substitute for hormone replacement therapy (HRT). The studies in postmenopausal women have shown its particular effectiveness in reducing hot flashes. However, a strong stimulation of uterus by 8-PN may be associated with the occurrence of adverse effects (eg. bleeding) and increase the risk of carcinogenesis. The H. lupulus extracts preparations are currently supplements which makes control of the doses used and thus increases the occurrence of uncontrolled self-treatment difficult. This paper presents the current knowledge on 8-PN and discusses the potential risks associated with use of hops to alleviate the symptoms of menopause.