bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macabéas às avessas: trajetórias de professores de geografia da cidade na roça: narrativas sobre docência e escolas rurais
Authors: Meireles Mariana Martins
Published: December 2016

A pesquisa objetivou apreender trajetórias de seis professoras de Geografia que moram na cidade e exercem a docência na roça, buscando, através de suas narrativas,compreender os sentidos que atribuem à docênciae às escolas rurais. O estudo pautou-se nos princípios epistemológicos da pesquisa qualitativa, ancorado nos pressupostos da abordagem (auto)biográfica, com ênfase nas narrativas docentes. Foram utilizados como instrumentos de recolha de dados: as entrevistas narrativas e as observações, analisados a partir de princípios da hermenêutica (RICOUER, 1976), na perspectiva interpretativa-compreensiva, além das contribuiçõesde Schütze (1987), sobre a análise das narrativas. O estudo apontou questões importantes para problematizar o ensino de Geografia em contextos rurais, a partir do movimento de compreender as trajetórias das professoras,revelando as implicações que os percursos devida-formação-profissão tiveram sobre suas identidades e performatividades docentes, bem como nas condições de trabalho que lhes são impostas no exercício diário da profissão. A pesquisa apontou, ainda, que o deslocamento geográfico (cidade-roça-cidade) vivenciado pelas professoras constitui-se como um espaço-tempo produtor da profissão, ou seja, uma “ritualização” diária que fornece elementos para construção da identidade docente, com implicações diretas no território da profissão, revelando modos de fazer docência na contemporaneidade. Nessa docência em travessia, as professoras reconstroem a si mesmas como pessoas e professoras, pensam/reelaboram suas práticas e projetos profissionais, mediante táticas singulares, suscitadas, sobretudo, em seus trajetos cotidiano sem contextos rurais tão diversos e tão singulares.
Silicon electrodeposition from chloride-fluoride melts containing K2SiF6 and SiO2
Authors: Zhuk Sergey , Isaev Vladimir , Grishenkova Olga , Isakov Andrey , Apisarov Alexey , Zaykov Yurii
Published: December 2016

Silicon electrodeposition on glassy carbon from the KF-KCl-K2SiF6,
KF-KCl-K2SiF6-KOH and KF-KCl-K2SiF6-SiO2 melts was studied by the cyclic
voltammetry. ?he electroreduction of Si(IV) to metallic Si was observed as a
single 4-electron wave under all considered conditions. The reactions of
cathode reduction of silicon from fluoride and oxyfluoride complexes were
suggested. It was shown that the process can be controlled by the preliminary
transformation of SiO44- to SiF62- and SiOxFyz-. The influence of the current
density on structure and morphology of silicon deposits obtained during
galvanostatic electrolysis of the KF-KCl-K2SiF6-SiO2 melt was studied.
Inequalities in health in a municipality of Serbia
Authors: Simovic Tatjana , Radojlovic Jasmina , Memic Mensur
Published: December 2016

Background/Aim. A consistent association between socioeconomic determinants and health related variables has been found in many European countries. The aims of this study were: to analyze the association of socioeconomic factors with self-perceived health and utilization of health services as well as to suggest some interventions to overcome the existing problems. Methods. Hybrid study was pefrormed. The two cross-sectional studies were conducted on quota samples (1999 and 2015) in Krusevac Municipality. The questionnaire was used as the investigation instrument for 196 interviewees in 1999 and 226 interviewees in 2015. Results. In the reporting period, there were the following results: a significant increase in people who did not have a steady income (?2 = 22.800; df = 4; ? < 0.01), a decrease in the number of people who perceived their own health as ?well? and ?very well?, a significant increase (6.1%) in people who did not visit anyone when disease occurred, a decrease of 13.2% in number of people who, at least once, visited the general practitioner and an increase in the number of people who visited private health care sector. The findings revealed inequalities in self-perceived health depending on socioeconomic position, in particular educational and employment status (?2 = 11.293; df = 4; p < 0.05). There are two major ways in which unemployment affects health: lack of income and ability to meet daily needs and emotional stress related to the meaning of the work, uncertain future, loss of self-esteem, and identity. Conclusion. Equality is a key value in the assessment of the effects on health. It is necessary to conduct effective interventions for overcoming the consequences in society that would be focused on a specific target group in one territory.
Does the blood glucose control have an effect on the success of the painful diabetic neuropathy treatment?
Authors: Jovanikic Olivera , Andjelic Gordana , Lepic Milan , Mirkovic Dusica , Jovanovic Bojan , Lepic Toplica , Dragovic Tamara
Published: December 2016

Background/Aim. Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is the basic complication of diabetes, associated with impared glucoregulation, metabolic distrurbances, microvascular vessel damage and increased cardiovascular risk. We monitored the impact of glucoregulation on the efficacy of painful diabetic neuropathy (PDN) treatment, when all pharmaceutical treatment options were exhausted. Methods. Patients (n = 53, both gender, average age 68.3 ? 12.6) with PDN resistant to the pharmacotherapy were treated with the ultrasound- guided local anesthetic (0.5% procaine hydrochloride, 1% lidocaine, 0.25% levobupivacaine) blocks. Neuropathy was confirmed in accordance with the applicable European Federation of Neurological Societies (EFNS) criteria. Glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1C) and blood glucose levels were monitored before and after therapy and one month after the treatment. Neuropathic pain was confirmed by Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) or Douleur neuropathique (DN4) or pain DETECT scales. The pain intensity was assessed by Visual analog scale, Neuropathic pain symptom and Neuropathic pain symptom inventory (VAS, NPS and NPSI, respectively) scales before and after therapy and one month after the treatment. The efficacy of the therapy was assessed as: excellent result (> 50% of pain loss), good result (30%?49% of pain loss and the therapy does not work (< 30% of pain loss). The correlation between glucoregulation and the outcome was examined. Results. Because the values of glycenia and HbA1c were not different among patients treated with different local anesthetics, they were presented together. All patients had elevated blood glucose and HbA1C levels before (8.23 ? 2.77 mmol/L and 8.53% ? 2.48% respectively), after (8.43 ? 2.461 mmol/L and 8.85% ? 2.87%, respectively) and one month after the treatment (8.49 ? 2.22 mmol/L and 8.51% ? 2.09%, respectively). The loss of the pain was not result of the decrease in blood glucose and HbA1C blood levels. VAS, NPS, NPSI values were the following before the therapy: 81.53 ? 11.62 mm; 62.00 ? 13.04; 53.40 ? 17.63, respectively; after the therapy: 29.00 ? 9.23 mm; 13.79 ? 6.65; 11.83 ? 7.93, respectively; and one month later: 26.15 ? 8.41 mm; 12.68 ? 6.03; 9.81 ? 7.64, respectively]. There was no correlation between glucoregulation and excellent outcome. Conclusion. Even though the disturbance of glucose control is the key factor for the progression of PDN, it is not significant for the outcome of the pain treatment. New investigations are required.
Organizational identification, commitment and orientations of professional military personnell
Authors: Todorovic Dusan , Cabarkapa Milanko , Tosic-Radev Milica , Miladinovic Ines
Published: December 2016

Background/Aim. All military organizations seek such employees who will advocate for the organization's mission and act responsibly in the direction of achieving the objectives of operational and working groups to which they belong. Accordingly, the primary task of the military organization management is not only the cultivation of the members who would be committed to the organization, but also the officers and soldiers who identify with the organizational mission. The aim of this study was to examine differences in organizational identification, commitment to the organization and organizational orientations of the professional military personnel and employees in service and administrative activities. Methods. The research sample consisted of 450 respondents, of whom 150 were professional soldiers, 150 civilian employees in the service sector and 150 employees in the civil sector in administration. For statistical analysis of the data, the analysis of variance and canonical discriminant analysis were used. Results. Professional military personnel was characterized by a high degree of both organizational commitment and organizational identification, compared with employees in the civil sector - service and administrative activities. Through the process of canonical discriminant analysis, it was found that the professional military personnel are different from the other personnel in the sense that they identify with their colleagues and they feel a high degree of loyalty to the military organization, as key aspects of organizational identification. In addition, professional military personnel have pronounced affective commitment to the organization. Conclusion. Human resources are the key and the essential factor of advantage in the context of strong competitiveness in the field of military defense's reality. Given that they are more adaptable and flexible, compared with the technological and structural resources, a high degree of experienced similarity with the other members of the organization, pronounced loyalty and affective commitment to the organization, to a large extent guarantee new successes and the progress of the military organization.
Oral health in children with special needs
Authors: Mandic Jelena , Jovanovic Svetlana , Mandinic Zoran , Ivanovic Mirjana , Kosanovic Dusan , Milicic Biljana , Zivojinovic-Toumba Vesna
Published: December 2016

Background/Aim. Due to their primary medical condition, children with special needs often display lower levels of oral hygiene, larger prevalence of caries and other oral diseases. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of dental caries, oral cleanliness and presence of malocclusion in children with disabilities, as well as to evaluate eruption time of the permanent molars. Methods. Case?control study was carried out on a group of 107 children with disabilities at the Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Belgrade, Serbia. The control group comprised of 104 healthy school children. Results. Children with disabilities had statistically higher mean [decayed missing and filled teeth ? dmft for primary DMF for permanent dentition (dmft DMFT)] values in both dentitions than children from the control group (p < 0.05). Oral cleanliness level was much lower in children with disabilities. A significantly higher percentage of Class II malocclusions and a higher tendency to have a delayed time of eruption of permanent molars were observed in the test group in permanent dentition. Conclusion. Considering poor oral health status and higher tendency for development of malloclusions and delayed eruption, it is necessary to develop preventive dental programmes for children with special needs, as well as improve public awareness about these issues.
Severe clinical forms of Mediterranean spotted fever: A case series from an endemic area in Bulgaria
Authors: Baymakova Magdalena , Pekova Liliya , Parousheva Pavlina , Andonova Radina , Plochev Kamen
Published: December 2016

Background/Aim. Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) belongs to Rickettsioses, the Spotted fever group (SFG). The causal agent is Rickettsia conorii conorii and the transmission to humans occurs through dog tick Rhipicephalus sanguineus bites. The aim of this study was to describe clinical and laboratory characteristics in patients with severe form of Mediterranean spotted fever admitted to Bulgarian university hospital in endemic region. Methods. A retrospective study was conducted at Stara Zagora University Hospital (Southeastern Bulgaria) between April 2015 and August 2016. During the analyzed period, 58 cases had clinical and laboratory data for MSF. Serological tests were applied for the etiological diagnosis. MSF-specific immunoglobulin (IgM) and IgG antibodies were detected in serum by indirect immunoenzyme assay (ELISA IgG/IgM, Vircell, Spain) ? R. conorii ELISA IgG sensitivity 85%, specificity 100% and R. conorii ELISA IgM sensitivity 94%, specificity 95%. Statistical analysis was made by MS Excel 2007 and SPSS Statistics, version 19.0. Results. Eighteen patients presented as severe forms. The predominant gender of them were males (78%) and 22% were females. The median age of the analyzed group was 55 years (range: 14? 78 years). Ten patients developed hepatic disorder while 4 had neurological signs. Laboratory data showed thrombocytopenia in 15 patients, mean value of platelet (PLT) count for the whole group was 108.6 ? 53.8 ? 109/L. Liver enzymes were elevated with mean value of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) 161.4 ? 90.1 IU/L and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 163.9 ? 81.5 IU/L. Acute phase reactant as C-reactive protein (CRP) had mean value of 140.3 mg/L (range: 9?230 mg/L). Kidney function was impaired in some cases; the mean value of creatinine for the studied group was 134.7 ?mol/L (range: 78?313 ?mol/L) and mean value of urea was 9.6 mmol/L (range: 4.2?27.4 mmol/L). Conclusion. Bulgaria is an endemic area for tick-borne diseases. Cases of MSF are reported annually. Severe forms of MSF are not rare. Typical clinical and laboratory markers for severity should be actively searched for. Early diagnosis and proper treatment is the key to avoid complications and enable patient recovery.
Clinical implications of Mycobacterium chimaera detection in thermoregulatory devices used for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), Germany, 2015 to 2016
Authors: Trudzinski Franziska C. , Schlotthauer Uwe , Kamp Annegret , Hennemann Kai , Muellenbach Ralf M. , Reischl Udo , Gärtner Barbara , Wilkens Heinrike , Bals Robert , Herrmann Mathias , Lepper Philipp M. , Becker Sören L.
Published: December 2016

Mycobacterium chimaera, a non-tuberculous mycobacterium, was recently identified as causative agent of deep-seated infections in patients who had previously undergone open-chest cardiac surgery. Outbreak investigations suggested an aerosol-borne pathogen transmission originating from water contained in heater-cooler units (HCUs) used during cardiac surgery. Similar thermoregulatory devices are used for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and M. chimaera might also be detectable in ECMO treatment settings. We performed a prospective microbiological study investigating the occurrence of M. chimaera in water from ECMO systems and in environmental samples, and a retrospective clinical review of possible ECMO-related mycobacterial infections among patients in a pneumological intensive care unit. We detected M. chimaera in 9 of 18 water samples from 10 different thermoregulatory ECMO devices; no mycobacteria were found in the nine room air samples and other environmental samples. Among 118 ECMO patients, 76 had bronchial specimens analysed for mycobacteria and M. chimaera was found in three individuals without signs of mycobacterial infection at the time of sampling. We conclude that M. chimaera can be detected in water samples from ECMO-associated thermoregulatory devices and might potentially pose patients at risk of infection. Further research is warranted to elucidate the clinical significance of M. chimaera in ECMO treatment settings.
Prevention of hospital-acquired bloodstream infections through chlorhexidine gluconate-impregnated washcloth bathing in intensive care units: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised crossover trials
Authors: Afonso Elsa , Blot Koen , Blot Stijn
Published: December 2016

We assessed the impact of 2% daily patient bathing with chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) washcloths on the incidence of hospital-acquired (HA) and central line-associated (CLA) bloodstream infections (BSI) in intensive care units (ICUs). We searched randomised studies in Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library (CENTRAL) and Web of Science databases up to April 2015. Primary outcomes were total HABSI, central line, and non-central line-associated BSI rates per patient-days. Secondary outcomes included Gram-negative and Gram-positive BSI rates and adverse events. Four randomised crossover trials involved 25 ICUs and 22,850 patients. Meta-analysis identified a total HABSI rate reduction (odds ratio (OR): 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.60–0.90; p = 0.002) with moderate heterogeneity (I2 = 36%). Subgroup analysis identified significantly stronger rate reductions (p = 0.01) for CLABSI (OR: 0.50; 95% CI: 0.35–0.71; p < 0.001) than other HABSI (OR: 0.82; 95% CI: 0.70–0.97; p = 0.02) with low heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). This effect was evident in the Gram-positive subgroup (OR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.31–0.99; p = 0.05), but became non-significant after removal of a high-risk-of-bias study. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the intervention effect remained significant for total and central line-associated HABSI. We suggest that use of CHG washcloths prevents HABSI and CLABSI in ICUs, possibly due to the reduction in Gram-positive skin commensals.
A major impact of the influenza seasonal epidemic on intensive care units, Réunion, April to August 2016
Authors: Filleul Laurent , Ranoaritiana Dany Bakoly , Balleydier Elsa , Vandroux David , Ferlay Clémence , Jaffar-Bandjee Marie-Christine , Jaubert Julien , Roquebert Bénédicte , Lina Bruno , Valette Martine , Hubert Bruno , Larrieu Sophie , Brottet Elise
Published: December 2016

The 2016 seasonal influenza in Réunion in the southern hemisphere, was dominated by influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 (possibly genogroup 6B.1). An estimated 100,500 patients with acute respiratory infection (ARI) consulted a physician (cumulative attack rate 11.9%). Sixty-six laboratory-confirmed cases (65.7/100,000 ARI consultations) were hospitalised in an intensive care unit, the highest number since 2009. Impact on intensive care units was major. Correlation between severe cases was 0.83 between Réunion and France and good for 2009 to 2015.
Prevalence and correlates of vaccine hesitancy among general practitioners: a cross-sectional telephone survey in France, April to July 2014
Authors: Verger Pierre , Collange Fanny , Fressard Lisa , Bocquier Aurélie , Gautier Arnaud , Pulcini Céline , Raude Jocelyn , Peretti-Watel Patrick
Published: December 2016

This article sought to estimate the prevalence of vaccine hesitancy (VH) among French general practitioners (GPs) and to study its demographic, professional and personal correlates. We conducted a cross-sectional telephone survey about GPs’ vaccination-related attitudes and practices in 2014 in a national panel of 1,712 GPs in private practice, randomly selected from an exhaustive database of health professionals in France. A cluster analysis of various dimensions of VH (self-reported vaccine recommendations, perceptions of vaccine risks and usefulness) identified three clusters: 86% of GPs (95% confidence interval (CI): 84–88) were not or only slightly vaccine-hesitant, 11% (95% CI: 9–12) moderately hesitant and 3% (95% CI: 3–4) highly hesitant or opposed to vaccination. GPs in the latter two clusters were less frequently vaccinated and reported occasional practice of alternative medicine more often than those in the first cluster; they also described less experience with vaccine-preventable diseases and more experience with patients who they considered had serious adverse effects from vaccination. This study confirms the presence of VH among French GPs but also suggests that its prevalence is moderate. Given GPs’ central role in vaccination, these results nevertheless call for a mobilisation of stakeholders to address VH among GPs.
Relationships between synthetic dyes and drug entities
Authors: Paterson G.R.
Published: December 2016

Drugs and dyes developed individual characters in the nineteenth century only. Drugs were at first “special foods” used during times of unpleasant symptoms or during illness. Consequently most drugs were vegetable or animal, since mineral technology was undeveloped. The earliest knowledge of dyestuffs was also acquired from the vegetable and animal kingdoms, especially the former. “Red dyestuffs were prepared from kermes, arachil, madder and henna; yellows from safflower, saffron, turmeric and pomegranate; blue from indigo and woad; purple from certain Mediterranean snails. Mordants containing iron, aluminium and copper were in use”. These latter were components of readily available earths.
Les médecins dans un monde clérical: L'Hôtel-Dieu de Québec au XlXe siècle
Authors: Guay Marcel
Published: December 2016

Ce texte porte sur l'Hôtel-Dieu de Québec au XIXe siècle. Son but est de montrer le contexte dans lequel s'est faite l'évolution de cette institution, et en particulier le rôle joué par le clergé et les communautés religieuses. Les sources qui ont servi à cette recherche proviennent en grande partie des archives de l'Hôtel-Dieu et du séminaire de Québec.
L’analyse de données secondaires dans le cadre d’évaluation de programme : regard théorique et expérientiel
Authors: Dionne Eric , Fleuret Carole
Published: December 2016

Abstract: The secondary data analysis (SDA) is a method used to access potentially useful data to carry out a program evaluation process. Current technology enables building and querying large databases more easily. Nevertheless, we note that SDA is still poorly documented from a theoretical point of view and there are few practical proposals to run a successful SDA. This article aims, on the one hand, to present the main theoretical foundations of SDA and, on the other hand, to make recommendations to facilitate the implementation of SDA.
Evaluating System Change Initiatives: Advancing the Need for Adapting Evaluation Practices
Authors: Poth Cheryl , Pei Jacqueline , Atkinson Erin , Hanson Tara
Published: December 2016

Abstract: This article describes key challenges experienced and addressed during the evaluation of the Government of Alberta’s 10-Year Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Strategic Plan (2007–2017). The purpose was to understand how the strategic plan was progressing toward outcomes at the fifth year of its implementation. Following a description of the system change initiative and evaluation context, an account of key challenges for one outcome is presented, including attempts to address and the effects on the evaluation. The implications for evaluation practice focused on encouraging evaluation participation and enhancing usefulness of data highlight the need for infrastructure to support evaluation of system change initiatives.
Canada’s National Alcohol Strategy: It’s Time to Assess Progress
Authors: Paradis Catherine
Published: December 2016

Abstract: This evaluation practice note describes the current state of a monitoring framework developed to help evaluate the implementation of Canada’s National Alcohol Strategy (NAS). The note presents the method chosen to assess whether the NAS is effective in promoting moderation and reducing the overall harm from alcohol. The discussion focuses on current challenges associated with this monitoring framework, as well as the project’s achievements so far. The evaluation system based on the monitoring framework should lead to more informed discussions among alcohol stakeholders about developing a culture of moderation in Canada.
Measuring Evaluation Capacity in Ontario Public Health Units
Authors: Bourgeois Isabelle , Hotte Nikolas , Simmons Louise , Osseni Raïmi
Published: December 2016

Abstract: This article presents a study of organizational capacity to do and use evaluation, conducted in 32 public health units in the province of Ontario. Methods include an organizational self-assessment using an instrument developed by Bourgeois, Toews, Whynot, and Lamarche (2013) as well as key informant interviews. Overall, our findings point to the fact that evaluation capacity is still developing in Ontario public health units; factors that support evaluation capacity in these organizations include the presence of an organization-wide evaluation policy, the availability of full-time evaluation staff in a supporting role, greater staff involvement in evaluation, and a standardized evaluation process. These findings highlight the importance of organizational structures and systems to evaluation utilization and provide potential areas of improvement for organizations wishing to improve their evaluation capacity.
La production de la théorie du programme dans le cadre d’une évaluation participative : une étude de cas
Authors: Saavedra Rodrigo Quiroz , Bigras Nathalie , Dion Julie , Doudou Karine
Published: December 2016

Abstract: Program Theory is an evaluation approach used to better define the intervention to be assessed, deepen comprehension of the processes used in implementation, identify its effects and the mechanisms at work in its production, improve use of evaluation results and finally improve the program. Despite the importance of the theory, there is a lack of scientific papers illustrating the instrumentation of program theory production within the specific framework of a participatory evaluation where every stakeholder affected by the intervention is actively involved in each step of the evaluation process. Through the application of the method to a case study, it is possible to describe the construction process of program theory, its conceptual basis, its steps, the techniques used, its results and its main issues.
Materialographic Preparation of Lithium-Carbon Intercalation Compounds
Authors: Drüe M. , Seyring M. , Grasemann A. , Rettenmayr M.
Published: December 2016

The materialographic investigation of anode materials for rechargeable lithium ion batteries is a significant step in the understanding and development of electrode materials, but made dramatically more difficult due to the high reactivity of the materials involved. In this work a method is presented which permits the metallographic preparation of the lithium-carbon intercalation compounds used as anode materials in today's rechargeable lithium ion batteries, and which allows the details of their microstructures to be contrasted. After classic, but absolutely water free, preparation in a protective gas atmosphere, the final stage of preparation is carried out using both ion beam polishing and manual polishing on a stationary polishing disc, whereby no significant differences of the quality of the microstructural images obtained is apparent.
Temporal variation in sea trout Salmo trutta life history traits in the Erriff River, western Ireland
Authors: Gargan PG , Kelly FL , Shepard S , Whelan KF
Published: December 2016

The demographic and life history characteristics of sea trout Salmo trutta L. populations can be changed by a range of pressures in both freshwater and marine environments. Few long-term monitoring programmes are in place to assess temporal change in population dynamics. We analysed a 20 yr time series (1985-2004) using 15 sea trout population response variables in the Erriff River, western Ireland. Over this period, when time was considered as a categorical variable comprising 4 sequential periods of 5 yr, important life history changes were observed. The most dramatic of these changes corresponded with the period immediately after the commencement of salmon farming in the local estuary, with significant decreases in the number and length of sea trout kelts, the estimated number of eggs deposited, the sea trout rod catch, the proportion of older (1+ and 2+ sea age) fish and the frequency of repeat spawners. We found a significant positive relationship between the number of salmon lice Lepeophtheirus salmonis in the local salmon farm and the number of lice found on sea trout collected contemporaneously in local rivers. Results of this long-term monitoring programme demonstrate that significant changes in sea trout population structure with respect to quantitative life history traits can occur over a relatively short time period and suggest that the introduction of salmon farming into the local estuary most likely contributed to the observed changes in sea trout population dynamics.
Effect of Application of Increasing Concentrations of Contaminated Water on the Different Fractions of Cu and Co in Sandy Loam and Clay Loam Soils
Authors: Volk John , Yerokun Olusegun
Published: December 2016

This study aimed to establish the fate of copper (Cu) and cobalt (Co) in sandy loam and clay loam soils that had been irrigated with increasing concentrations of contaminated water. A sequential extraction procedure was used to determine the fractions of Cu and Co in these soils. The concentration of bioavailable Cu and Co on clay loam was 1.7 times that of sandy loam soil. Cu on sandy loam soil was largely in the organic > residual > exchangeable > water-soluble > carbonate fractions, whereas on clay loam soil the element was largely in organic > exchangeable > residual > carbonate > water-soluble fractions. Co was largely observed in the exchangeable, water-soluble, and carbonate fractions, but with no particular trend observed in both soil types. When crops are grown on sandy soils that have a low capacity to hold heavy metals, the resulting effect would be high uptake of the heavy metals in crop plants. Because the predominant forms of Cu and Co vary in soils, it is expected that the metals will behave differently in the soils.
The Effects of Different Garlic-Derived Allyl Sulfides on Anaerobic Sulfur Metabolism in the Mouse Kidney
Authors: Iciek Małgorzata , Bilska-Wilkosz Anna , Górny Magdalena , Sokołowska-Jeżewicz Maria , Kowalczyk-Pachel Danuta
Published: December 2016

Diallyl sulfide (DAS), diallyl disulfide (DADS) and diallyl trisulfide (DATS) are major oil-soluble organosulfur compounds of garlic responsible for most of its pharmacological effects. The present study investigated the influence of repeated intraperitoneally (ip) administration of DAS, DADS and DATS on the total level of sulfane sulfur, bound sulfur (S-sulfhydration) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and on the activity of enzymes, which catalyze sulfane sulfur formation and transfer from a donor to an acceptor in the normal mouse kidney, i.e., γ-cystathionase (CSE) and rhodanese (TST). The activity of aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), which is a redox-sensitive protein, containing an –SH group in its catalytic center, was also determined. The obtained results indicated that all tested compounds significantly increased the activity of TST. Moreover, DADS and DATS increased the total sulfane sulfur level and CSE activity in the normal mouse kidney. ALDH activity was inhibited in the kidney after DATS administration. The results indicated also that none of the studied allyl sulfides affected the level of bound sulfur or H2S. Thus, it can be concluded that garlic-derived DADS and DATS can be a source of sulfane sulfur for renal cells but they are not connected with persulfide formation.
Prediction of Cone Crusher Performance Considering Liner Wear
Authors: Ma Yanjun , Fan Xiumin , He Qichang
Published: December 2016

Cone crushers are used in the aggregates and mining industries to crush rock material. The pressure on cone crusher liners is the key factor that influences the hydraulic pressure, power draw and liner wear. In order to dynamically analyze and calculate cone crusher performance along with liner wear, a series of experiments are performed to obtain the crushed rock material samples from a crushing plant at different time intervals. In this study, piston die tests are carried out and a model relating compression coefficient, compression ratio and particle size distribution to a corresponding pressure is presented. On this basis, a new wear prediction model is proposed combining the empirical model for predicting liner wear with time parameter. A simple and practical model, based on the wear model and interparticle breakage, is presented for calculating compression ratio of each crushing zone along with liner wear. Furthermore, the size distribution of the product is calculated based on existing size reduction process model. A method of analysis of product size distribution and shape in the crushing process considering liner wear is proposed. Finally, the validity of the wear model is verified via testing. The result shows that there is a significant improvement of the prediction of cone crusher performance considering liner wear as compared to the previous model.
Sensitive versus Rough Dependence under Initial Conditions in Atmospheric Flow Regimes
Authors: Lupo Anthony , Li Y. , Feng Z. , Fox Neil , Rabinowitz Jordan , Simpson Micheal
Published: December 2016

In this work, we will identify the existence of “rough dependence on initial conditions” in atmospheric phenomena, a concept which is a problem for weather analysis and forecasting. Typically, two initially similar atmospheric states will diverge slowly over time such that forecasting the weather using the Navier-Stokes equations is useless after some characteristic time scale. With rough dependence, two initial states diverge very quickly, implying forecasting may be impossible. Using previous research in atmospheric science, rough dependence is characterized by using quantities that can be calculated using atmospheric data and quantities. Rough dependence will be tested for and identified in atmospheric phenomena at different time scales using case studies. Data were provided for this project by archives outside the University of Missouri (MU) and by using the MU RADAR at the South Farm experiment station.
The Preparation of Cu-g-C3N4/AC Catalyst for Acetylene Hydrochlorination
Authors: Zhao Wenli , Zhu Mingyuan , Dai Bin
Published: December 2016

A novel catalyst based on g-C3N4/activated carbon was prepared by adding CuCl2. The catalytic performance of the as-prepared catalyst was investigated in the acetylene hydrochlorination reaction. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, temperature programmed desorption, low temperature N2 adsorption/desorption (Brunauer–Emmett–Teller), and thermal gravity analysis showed that Cu-g-C3N4/AC significantly enhanced the catalytic performance of the original catalyst by increasing the relative pyrrolic N content. Cu-g-C3N4/AC also affected the adsorption of hydrogen chloride and acetylene, as well as inhibited the coke deposition during acetylene hydrochlorination.
Green Nanotechnology Serving the Bioeconomy: Natural Beauty Masks to Save the Environment
Authors: Morganti Pierfrancesco , Palombo Marco , Carezzi Francesco , Nunziata Maria , Morganti Gianluca , Cardillo Maria , Chianese Angelo
Published: December 2016

According to United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), ensuring a clean and healthy environment will provide multiple benefits to society and economy. Sustainable production, followed by appropriate management of industrial and agricultural waste, will protect and enhance biodiversity and ecosystem services. To achieve this objective, specific policies must be put in place and specific actions performed for making a low-carbon and resource-efficient economy with reduced production of petrol-derived goods. The aim of the study has been to produce effective and safe anti-age beauty masks made of non-woven tissues based on the use of chitin nanofibril (CN) and nanolignin (LG), obtained from crustaceans and plant biomass, respectively. To this purpose, nanoparticles and electrospun fibres have been characterized by Dynamic Light Scattering and SEM, while the safeness and effectiveness of the obtained tissues was verified in vitro on a culture of keratinocytes and fibroblasts, and controlled in vivo by expert dermatologists on 30 volunteer photo-aged women, by subjective and objective bioengineered methods. The in vitro results have shown that the beauty masks have no toxic effects on the viability of keratinocytes and fibroblasts treated by the Dimethyl Tetrazole (MTT) method, and exhibit a decreased expression of cytokines, playing a central role in the regulation of immune and inflammatory responses in premature aging and environmental assaults. The reparative and antiaging effectiveness of these innovative beauty masks have been also verified on the release of Metallo Proteinase I (MMP-1) and the increased synthesis of collagen type I, reduced in skin aging. The first preliminary in vivo results, obtained by engineering methods, have confirmed the protective and rejuvenating activity shown by the in vitro study conducted on 30 voluntary women exhibiting signs of photoaging. The raw materials used are of natural origin being also respectful of the environment, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (EOCD) and EU programmes.
Multivariable Fuzzy Measure Entropy Analysis for Heart Rate Variability and Heart Sound Amplitude Variability
Authors: Zhao Lina , Wei Shoushui , Tang Hong , Liu Chengyu
Published: December 2016

Simultaneously analyzing multivariate time series provides an insight into underlying interaction mechanisms of cardiovascular system and has recently become an increasing focus of interest. In this study, we proposed a new multivariate entropy measure, named multivariate fuzzy measure entropy (mvFME), for the analysis of multivariate cardiovascular time series. The performances of mvFME, and its two sub-components: the local multivariate fuzzy entropy (mvFEL) and global multivariate fuzzy entropy (mvFEG), as well as the commonly used multivariate sample entropy (mvSE), were tested on both simulation and cardiovascular multivariate time series. Simulation results on multivariate coupled Gaussian signals showed that the statistical stability of mvFME is better than mvSE, but its computation time is higher than mvSE. Then, mvSE and mvFME were applied to the multivariate cardiovascular signal analysis of R wave peak (RR) interval, and first (S1) and second (S2) heart sound amplitude series from three positions of heart sound signal collections, under two different physiological states: rest state and after stair climbing state. The results showed that, compared with rest state, for univariate time series analysis, after stair climbing state has significantly lower mvSE and mvFME values for both RR interval and S1 amplitude series, whereas not for S2 amplitude series. For bivariate time series analysis, all mvSE and mvFME report significantly lower values for after stair climbing. For trivariate time series analysis, only mvFME has the discrimination ability for the two physiological states, whereas mvSE does not. In summary, the new proposed mvFME method shows better statistical stability and better discrimination ability for multivariate time series analysis than the traditional mvSE method.
Entropy and Stability Analysis of Delayed Energy Supply–Demand Model
Authors: Wang Jing , Si Fengshan , Wang Yuling , Duan Shide
Published: December 2016

In this paper, a four-dimensional model of energy supply–demand with two-delay is built. The interactions among energy demand of east China, energy supply of west China and the utilization of renewable energy in east China are delayed in this model. We discuss stability of the system affected by parameters and the existence of Hopf bifurcation at the equilibrium point from two aspects: single delay and two-delay. The stability and complexity of the system are demonstrated through bifurcation diagram, Poincare section plot, entropy diagram, etc. in numerical simulation. The simulation results show that the parameters beyond the stable region will cause the system to be unstable and increase the complexity of the system. At this point, because of energy supply–demand system fluctuations, it is difficult to formulate energy policies. Finally, the bifurcation control is realized successfully by the method of delayed feedback control. The results of bifurcation control simulation indicate that the system can return to stable state by adjusting the control parameter. In addition, we find that the bigger the value of the control parameter, the better the effect of the bifurcation control. The results of this paper can provide help for maintaining the stability of the system, which will be conducive to energy scheduling.
Epistemology as Education: Know Thyself
Authors: Tubbs Nigel
Published: December 2016

In his Introduction to this Special Edition of Education Sciences, Andrew Stables points out that often, epistemological questions in education have been pursued in isolation from ethics and other social concerns. In part, this problem has been addressed by ‘local’ epistemologies—feminist, queer, post-colonial, postmodern and others—which try to establish how different knowledge can look when not grounded in presuppositions of consciousness, or rationality, or gender, colour, etc., all of which exclude and suppress that which they deem to be ‘other’. However, perhaps it is not just these local knowledges that are excluded from epistemological work in education. Perhaps, remarkably, epistemological questions pursued in education are habitually carried out in isolation from education, as if education were nothing in its own right. This ‘otherness’ of education to philosophy in general, and to epistemology in particular, contributes to the latter often seeming to be nugatory with regard to the inequalities borne within modern social and political relations. With this is mind, the following contribution reflects not so much on the relation of epistemology and education, or on epistemology in education, but rather on epistemology as education. Primarily this concerns the question of how epistemology, the science of knowledge, can have knowledge of itself and of the educational significance carried in trying to do so. This challenge of epistemology as education commends epistemology to heed the Delphic maxim: know thyself. It is to these efforts that the following essay is directed.
Inverse Aerodynamic Optimization Considering Impacts of Design Tip Speed Ratio for Variable-Speed Wind Turbines
Authors: Yang Zhiqiang , Yin Minghui , Xu Yan , Zou Yun , Dong Zhao , Zhou Qian
Published: December 2016

Because of the slow dynamic behavior of the large-inertia wind turbine rotor, variable-speed wind turbines (VSWTs) are actually unable to keep operating at the design tip speed ratio (TSR) during the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) process. Moreover, it has been pointed out that although a larger design TSR can increase the maximum power coefficient, it also greatly prolongs the MPPT process of VSWTs. Consequently, turbines spend more time operating at the off-design TSRs and the wind energy capture efficiency is decreased. Therefore, in the inverse aerodynamic design of VSWTs, the static aerodynamic performance (i.e., the maximum power coefficient) and the dynamic process of MPPT should be comprehensively modeled for determining an appropriate design TSR. In this paper, based on the inverse design method, an aerodynamic optimization method for VSWTs, fully considering the impacts of the design TSR on the static and dynamic behavior of wind turbines is proposed. In this method, to achieve higher wind energy production, the design TSR, chord length and twist angle are jointly optimized, which is structurally different from the conventional separated design procedure. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is validated by simulation results based on the Bladed software.
Mitigation of the Impact of High Plug-in Electric Vehicle Penetration on Residential Distribution Grid Using Smart Charging Strategies
Authors: Cao Chong , Wang Luting , Chen Bo
Published: December 2016

Vehicle electrification presents a great opportunity to reduce transportation greenhouse gas emissions. The greater use of plug-in electric vehicles (PEVs), however, puts stress on local distribution networks. This paper presents an optimal PEV charging control method integrated with utility demand response (DR) signals to mitigate the impact of PEV charging to several aspects of a grid, including load surge, distribution accumulative voltage deviation, and transformer aging. To build a realistic PEV charging load model, the results of National Household Travel Survey (NHTS) have been analyzed and a stochastic PEV charging model has been defined based on survey results. The residential distribution grid contains 120 houses and is modeled in GridLAB-D. Co-simulation is performed using Matlab and GridLAB-D to enable the optimal control algorithm in Matlab to control PEV charging loads in the residential grid modeled in GridLAB-D. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed optimal charging control method in mitigating the negative impacts of PEV charging on the residential grid.
Forecasting the State of Health of Electric Vehicle Batteries to Evaluate the Viability of Car Sharing Practices
Authors: Semanjski Ivana , Gautama Sidharta
Published: December 2016

Car-sharing practices are introducing electric vehicles (EVs) into their fleet. However, the literature suggests that at this point shared EV systems are failing to reach satisfactory commercial viability. A potential reason for this is the effect of higher vehicle usage, which is characteristic of car sharing, and the implications on the battery’s state of health (SoH). In this paper, we forecast the SoH of two identical EVs being used in different car-sharing practices. For this purpose, we use real life transaction data from charging stations and different EV sensors. The results indicate that insight into users’ driving and charging behavior can provide a valuable point of reference for car-sharing system designers. In particular, the forecasting results show that the moment when an EV battery reaches its theoretical end of life can differ in as much as a quarter of the time when vehicles are shared under different conditions.
A New Skid Trail Pattern Design for Farm Tractors Using Linear Programing and Geographical Information Systems
Authors: Gumus Selcuk , Turk Yilmaz
Published: December 2016

Farm tractor skidding is one of the common methods of timber extraction in Turkey. However, the absence of an optimal skidding plan covering the entire production area can result in time loss and negative environmental impacts. In this study, the timber extraction by farm tractors was analyzed, and a new skid trail pattern design was developed using Linear Programming (LP) and Geographical Information Systems (GIS). First, a sample skidding operation was evaluated with a time study, and an optimum skidding model was generated with LP. Then, the new skidding pattern was developed by an optimum skidding model and GIS analysis. At the end of the study, the developed new skid trail pattern was implemented in the study area and tested by running a time study. Using the newly developed “Direct Skid Trail Pattern (DSTP)” model, a 16.84% increase in working time performance was observed when the products were extracted by farm tractors compared to the existing practices. On the other hand, the average soil compaction value measured in the study area at depths of 0–5 cm and 5–10 cm was found to be greater in the sample area skid trails than in the control points. The average density of the skid trails was 281 m/ha, while it decreased to 187 m/ha by using the developed pattern. It was also found that 44,829 ton/ha of soil losses were prevented by using the DSTP model; therefore, environmental damages were decreased.