bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research to Evaluate a New Discharge Medication Prescription Pathway
Authors: Onatade Raliat
Published: May 2017

The effective dissemination and implementation of health service interventions into practice requires a range of strategic and systematic approaches. This paper applies a conceptual implementation framework to the evaluation of a hospital-wide clinical pharmacy initiative, a redesign of the discharge medication prescription pathway. The influencing factors and strategies used to overcome potential negative influences are described and assessed.
Microbiome and Probiotics inHealth and HIV Infection
Authors: D'Angelo Chiara , Reale Marcella , Costantini Erica
Published: May 2017

Microbiota plays a key role in various body’s functions, physiological, metabolic and immunological processes, through different mechanisms such as the regulation of the development and/or functions of different types of immune cells in the intestines. Several evidences indicate that alteration in the gut microbiota can influence infectious and non-infectious diseases. Bacteria that resides on the mucosal surface or within the mucus layer participate in interactions with the host immune system, and a healthy gut microbiota is essential for the development of mucosal immunity. The immunomodulatory activity of probiotics has been proposed in several bowel disorders or in aging-related dysfunctions. In HIV infected patients, the intestinal immune system is affected and inflammation persists during ART therapy too. Several studies are in progress to investigate the ability of probiotics to modulate epithelial barrier functions, microbiota composition and microbial translocation in HIV infection. This mini-review aims to suggest how the use of probiotics is beneficial not only in maintaining a healthy status but also to improve conditions in HIV subjects.
The Potential of Active Contour Models in Extracting Roads from Mobile Laser Scanning Data
Authors: Kumar Pankaj , Lewis Paul , McCarthy Tim
Published: May 2017

Active contour models present a robust segmentation approach which make efficient use of specific information about objects in the input data rather than processing all the data. They have been widely used in many applications including image segmentation, object boundary localisation, motion tracking, shape modelling, stereo matching and object reconstruction. In this paper, we investigate the potential of active contour models in extracting roads from Mobile Laser Scanning (MLS) data. The categorisation of active contours based on their mathematical representation and implementation are discussed in detail. We discuss an integrated version in which active contour models are combined to overcome their limitations. We review various active contour based methodologies which have been developed to extract roads and other features from LiDAR and digital imaging datasets. We present a small case study in which an integrated version of active contour models is applied to automatically extract road edges from MLS dataset. An accurate extraction of left and right edges from the tested road section validates the use of active contour models. The present study provides a valuable insight on the potential of active contours for extracting roads and other infrastructures from 3D LiDAR point cloud data.
Implementation of Permission Management Method for Before and After Applications the Update in Android-based IoT Platform Environment
Authors: Park In-Kyu , Kwak Jin
Published: May 2017

The Android-based IoT platform just like the existing Android provides an environment that makes it easy to utilize Google's infrastructure services including development tools and APIs through which it helps to control the sensors of IoT devices. Applications running on the Android-based IoT platform are often UI free and are used without the user’s consent to registered permissions. It is difficult to respond to the misuse of permissions as well as to check them when they are registered indiscriminately while updating applications. This paper analyzes the versions of before and after an application the update running on the Android-based IoT platform and the collected permission lists. It aims to identify the same permissions before and after the update, and deleted and newly added permissions after the update were identified, and thereby respond to security threats that can arise from the permissions that is not needed for IoT devices to perform certain functions.
Effect of Fuel Injection Strategy on the Carbonaceous Structure Formation and Nanoparticle Emission in a DISI Engine Fuelled with Butanol
Authors: Merola Simona Silvia , Irimescu Adrian , Di Iorio Silvana , Vaglieco Bianca Maria
Published: May 2017

Within the context of ever wider expansion of direct injection in spark ignition engines, this investigation was aimed at improved understanding of the correlation between fuel injection strategy and emission of nanoparticles. Measurements performed on a wall guided engine allowed identifying the mechanisms involved in the formation of carbonaceous structures during combustion and their evolution in the exhaust line. In-cylinder pressure was recorded in combination with cycle-resolved flame imaging, gaseous emissions and particle size distribution. This complete characterization was performed at three injection phasing settings, with butanol and commercial gasoline. Optical accessibility from below the combustion chamber, allowed visualization of diffusive flames induced by fuel deposits; these localized phenomena were correlated to observed changes in engine performance and pollutant species. With gasoline fueling, minor modifications were observed with respect to combustion parameters, when varying the start of injection. The alcohol, on the other hand, featured marked sensitivity to the fuel delivery strategy. Even though the start of injection was varied in a relatively narrow crank angle range during the intake stroke, significant differences were recorded, especially in the values of particle emissions. This was correlated to the fuel jet-wall interactions; the analysis of diffusive flames, their location and size confirmed the importance of liquid film formation in direct injection engines, especially at medium and high load.
Dietary Intake of Meat Cooking-Related Mutagens (HCAs) and Risk of Colorectal Adenoma and Cancer: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chiavarini Manuela , Bertarelli Gaia , Minelli Liliana , Fabiani Roberto
Published: May 2017

Several evidences suggest that the positive association between meat intake and colorectal adenoma (CRA) and cancer (CRC) risk is mediated by mutagenic compounds generated during cooking at high temperature. A number of epidemiological studies have estimated the effect of meat-related mutagens intake on CRC/CRA risk with contradictory and sometime inconsistent results. A literature search was carried out (PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus) to identify articles reporting the relationship between the intake of meat-related mutagens (2-amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazo[4,5-b]pyridine: PhIP, 2-amino-3,8-dimethylimidazo[4,5-f] quinoxaline: MeIQx, 2-amino-3,4,8-trimethylimidazo[4,5-f] quinoxaline: DiMeIQx, benzo(a) pyrene: (B(a)P) and “meat derived mutagenic activity”: MDM) and CRC/CRA risk. A random-effect model was used to calculate the risk association. Thirty-nine studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. Polled CRA risk (15229 cases) was significantly increased by intake of PhIP (OR=1.20; 95%CI:1.13,1.28; p<0.001), MeIQx (OR=1.14; 95%CI:1.05,1.23; p=0.001), DiMeIQx (OR=1.13; 95%CI:1.05,1.21; p=0.001), B(a)P (OR=1.10; 95%CI:1.02,1.19; p=0.017) and MDM (OR=1.17; 95%CI:1.07,1.28; p=0.001). A linear and curvilinear trend was observed in dose-response meta-analisis between CRA risk in association with PhIP and MDM, MeIQx, respectively. CRC risk (21344 cases) was increased by uptake of MeIQx (OR=1.14; 95%CI:1.04,1.25; p=0.004), DiMeIQx (OR=1.12; 95%CI:1.02,1.22; p=0.014) and MDM (OR=1.12; 95%CI:1.06,1.19; p<0.001). No publication bias could be detected whereas heterogeneity was in some cases rather high. Mutagenic compounds formed during cooking of meat at high temperature may be responsible of its carcinogenicity.
Electric Power Grids Distribution Generation System For Optimal Location and Sizing – An Case Study Investigation by Various Optimization Algorithms
Authors: Ali Ahmet , Padmanaban Sanjeevikumar , Twala Bhekisipho , Marwala Tshilidzi
Published: May 2017

In this paper a variable’s involved in assessing the quality of a distributed generation system are reviewed, aiming to minimize the electric power losses (unused power consumption) and optimize the voltage profile. To provide this assessment, several experiments have been made to the IEEE 34-bus test case and various actual test cases with the respect of multiple DG units. The possibility and effectiveness of the proposed algorithm for optimal placement and sizing of DG in distribution systems have been verified. Finally, four algorithms were trailed: simulated annealing (SA), hybrid genetic algorithm (HGA), genetic algorithm (GA) and variable neighbourhood search. The HGA algorithm was found to produce the best solution at a cost of longer processing time.
Boundary Detection and Enhancement of Islanding Operation Investigation Under Fault Condition
Authors: Pouryekta Aref , K. Ramachandaramurthy Vigna , Padmanaban Sanjeevikumar , MIHET-POPA Lucian
Published: May 2017

Distribution systems can form islands when faults occur. Each island represents a subsection with variable boundaries subject to the location of a fault(s) in the system. A subsection with variable boundaries is referred to as island in this paper. For operation in autonomous mode, it is imperative to detect the island configurations and stabilize these subsections. This paper presents a novel scheme for the detection of islanding boundaries and stabilizing the system during autonomous operation. In the first stage, a boundary detection method is proposed to detect the configuration of the island. In the second stage a dynamic voltage sensitivity factor (DVSF) is proposed to assess the dynamic performance of the system. In the third stage, a wide area load shedding program is adopted based on DVSF to shed the load in weak busbars and stabilize the system. The proposed scheme is validated and tested on a generic 18-bus system using a combination of EMTDC/PSCAD and MATLAB softwares.
Real-time Analysis of a Modified State Observer for Sensorless Induction Motor Drive used in Electric Vehicle Applications
Authors: Krishna S Mohan , Daya J L Febin , Padmanaban Sanjeevikumar , MIHET-POPA Lucian
Published: May 2017

The purpose of this work is to present an adaptive sliding mode luenberger state observer with improved disturbance rejection capability and better tracking performance under dynamic conditions. The sliding hyperplane is altered by incorporating the estimated disturbance torque with the stator currents. Also, the effects of parameter detuning on the speed convergence is observed and compared with the conventional disturbance rejection mechanism. The entire drive system is first built in simulink environment. Then, the simulink model is integrated with RT-Lab blocksets and implemented in a relatively new real-time environment using OP4500 real-time simulator. Real-time simulation and testing platforms have succeeded offline simulation and testing tools due to their reduced development time. The real-time results validate the improvement in the proposed state observer and also correspond to the performance of the actual physical model.
Spatial Movement of Urban Beggars in Denpasar City
Authors: Christiawan Putu Indra , Wesnawa I Gede Astra , Shara Aprilia Riszi Indah Dewi
Published: May 2017

Urban beggars are social problems that are related to the poverty of citizen. In Denpasar City Bali Province, particularly in West Denpasar District, the beggars have specificity in activities of begging. Studies in this article demonstrate their specificity begging activity which can be evaluated from the spatial movement of beggars based on the place, time and the distance. Through the method of grounded research with qualitative analysis showed that: (1) the beggars have permanent objects to visit, which consist of shops, settlement and places of worship of the Muslim community, (2) begging activities performed every Friday for 6 hours from 08.00 to at 14.00, and (3) beggars not only walking, but also using public transportation to visiting the object that is relatively far from beggars lane. The findings of this study reinforces that begging has become a profession that is conducted in a structured and well-organized.
“MODO DEADLINE”: UMA ANÁLISE SOBRE O TEMPO DAS MULHERES ACADÉMICAS
Authors: Araújo Emília , Barros Victor
Published: May 2017

Ao relacionarmos o tempo na academia e na ciência em uma perspectiva de género como condição/pressuposto de partida, são inúmeras as questões que se levantam e que ultrapassam os indicadores atuais relativos à comparação entre a situação dos homens e das mulheres na academia e na ciência. O grau e valorização das unidades curriculares, cargos, áreas científicas, perfis e temas de investigação, as modalidades de financiamento e até mesmo a escolha de uma carreira de investigação devem ser equacionadas enquanto questões de género e correlacionadas com o uso, experiência, implicações e percepções do fator tempo pelas mulheres académicas nestas questões. Este artigo tem como objetivo explicitar alguns dos traços principais dos usos do tempo, por parte das mulheres académicas, identificando algumas das suas implicações para a política académica e científica a nível institucional. A partir da análise de resultados provenientes de um cruzamento de estudos realizados envolvendo entrevista e observação, percebe-se claramente como as narrativas femininas sobre o tempo tendem a relativizar as dificuldades individuais na administração e alocação do tempo, face à importância atribuída à necessidade de responder a exigências de caráter estrutural nas instituições. Nesta perspetiva, destaca-se o interesse em aprofundar a consciencialização sobre questões de genéro, incluindo o aprimoramento de indicadores para estudo e intervenção consentanêa com a promoção da igualdade de género em contexto académico.
REPRESENTAÇÕES E VALORES SOCIAIS DA PROFISSÃO DO PROFESSOR QUE ATUA NA EDUCAÇÃO BÁSICA
Authors: Silva Neide de Melo Aguiar
Published: May 2017

Esta pesquisa discute valores socialmente compartilhados por professores da educação básica no exercício da profissão, tomando-os como construtos responsáveis pela conexão entre as atitudes individuais e a estrutura social que atuam como dados de conteúdo empírico acessível aos membros de um grupo social e cujos significados são e podem ser objetos de decisão sobre o agir. Nesta perspectiva é possível deferir, como sobressalentes e constitutivos da formação do professor, valores relativos a poder, realização, segurança e autodeterminação. Com menor ênfase, são também constitutivos da docência valores que primam pelo desejo de universalizar conceitos e princípios educativos reguladores do agir cotidiano e da vida em sociedade. E, embora haja mostras naturalizadas da profissão como vocação, tradição e estimulação para o bem comum, intensificam-se os indícios de profissionalização do professor como um ensejo crescente.
A RELAÇÃO COM SKATISMO E SEUS SABERES
Authors: PINTO FÁBIO MACHADO , PEREIRA JULIO GABRIEL DE SÁ
Published: May 2017

Nesta pesquisa buscamos refletir sobre as relações que os skatistas constroem em determinados espaços da região da Grande Florianópolis-SC, em específico na pista de skate do bairro Trindade – a Trinda –, e no CT SKT – Projeto SKT – projeto que oferece aulas de skate. Foi investigada a apropriação do espaço, as relações de sociabilidade entre os indivíduos, a formação do habitus e a construção do campo skatista na cidade. Como possibilidade de aprofundamento e contribuição para com a área dos estudos em Educação, discutimos a noção de relação com o saber, e seus desdobramentos diante dos saberes do skatismo. Concluímos indicando a capacidade oferecida pelo estudo desta noção, em desenvolver tensionamentos no campo cientifico, em especial, nas Ciências Sociais e da Educação.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament Repair and Biologic Innovations
Authors: Waryasz Gregory R. , Marcaccio Stephen , Gil Joseph A. , Owens Brett D. , Fadale Paul D.
Published: May 2017

* Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are currently treated with allografts and autografts.

* Advancements in tissue engineering and biosynthetics are improving ACL repair techniques.

* ACL repair may offer a viable option for skeletally immature patients.

* U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved biologic scaffolds are undergoing clinical trials currently and may someday offer an off-the-shelf option for treatment.
THE POTENTIAL USE OF SSR MARKERS TO SUPPORT THE MORPHOLOGICAL IDENTIFICATION OF INDONESIAN MUNGBEAN VARIETIES
Authors: Reflinur Reflinur , Lestari Puji , Lee Suk-Ha
Published: May 2017

Mungbean varieties were mainly characterized based on morphological traits. Molecular genetic approach is expected to help the breeder in identification of mungbean varieties in more detail and to protect intellectual property right. This study aimed to identify Indonesian mungbean varieties based on DNA fingerprint profile using a marker set to support morphological characters. A total of 22 Indonesian mungbean accessions were characterized based on 21 morphological traits and 55 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) primers. Of the total 22 mungbean varieties used in the present study, 16 varieties were improved varieties and remaining six varieties were local varieties originated from Java, Nusa Tenggara and Sulawesi collected in GeneBank of ICABIOGRAD. The results showed that the 21 morphological characters were not sufficient to differentiate 22 mungbean varieties, while SSR analysis revealed that eight multi-alleles markers and high polymorphic information content (PIC) values have been successfully selected for varietal identification. The selected markers enabled to differentiate each mungbean variety according to their genetic marker with the lowest distance of 0.125, demonstrating the robustness of the selected marker set as a tool to identify a specific DNA fingerprint profile as a varietal identity (ID). The genetic identity of a variety was shown by digital barcoding which represented a series of alleles produced by corresponding markers. The DNA fingerprint profile of each variety would be beneficial as reference identities of a mungbean variety. 
Espacialidade e temporalidades das vilas e cidade amazônicas: da vila de Ega à cidade de Tefé nas Cartas dos Governadores da Província do Amazonas, 1852-1857.
Authors: Pessoa dos Santos Sandriele
Published: May 2017

Para se compreender a evolução e permanência das cidades amazônicas, fez-se necessário periodizar historicamente os fatos políticos e econômicos que levaram o desaparecimento de vilas e povoados ou a sua espacialização. A interpretação documental permitiu entender a organização da cidade de Tefé no plano local e regional. Considerando as medidas da política imperialista na criação do Município.
Práticas Umbandistas: revelando as territorialidades dos centros de umbanda na cidade de Dourados-MS
Authors: Viera Chaves Gesliane Sara , Leandro Mondardo Marcos
Published: May 2017

O presente artigo tem por finalidade analisar o território da Umbanda na cidade de Dourados, compreendendo suas simbologias, rituais, médiuns e frequentadores. Demonstraremos, para isso, o funcionamento dos centros, as territorialidades dos terreiros, as simbologias, a infraestrutura, a localização, as condições sociais dos frequentadores e as contradições sociais na comparação dos centros.
Da trajetória secular aos novos caminhos do guaraná: desafios e perspectivas da produção na Amazônia do século XVII ao século XXI
Authors: Serrão Arenilton Monteiro , Masulo da Cruz Manuel de Jesus , Belém da Costa Luis Fernando
Published: May 2017

O presente trabalho teve por objetivo compreender a trajetória secular da cultura do guaraná (Paullinia cupana) na Amazônia, destacando entre os aspectos, os primeiros contatos entre povos autóctones e colonizadores europeus, de modo a compreender como se constituiu historicamente a produção do guaraná, que outrora era exclusividade do povo indígena Sateré-Mawé, às formas monopolistas impostas pelas grandes indústrias de bebidas na atualidade. A pesquisa é de cunho bibliográfico e elementos de suas discussões partem de estudos mais amplos. Dificilmente se comentará do guaraná sem nos remetemos aos criados dessa cultura, o povo indígena Sateré-Mawé. A origem de seu povo, envolto de mitos e lendas vem com o surgimento dessa planta, o “waranã”, que representa não só valores simbólicos, mas também cultural e socioeconômico. Detentores de tecnologias sociais de produção mantiveram por muito tempo exclusividade no processo produtivo, no entanto, o contato com os colonizadores europeus e outros agentes externos modificaram essas relações, parte de seus conhecimentos foram apropriados e o produto já imbuído em uma lógica de produção ganha o mundo e vira especiaria cobiçada pelas indústrias, em especial de bebidas, medicamentos e cosméticos, passando a integrar um produto de grande valor econômico. Partes das relações produtivas hoje se dão na forma monopolista, criando e recriando verdadeiras territorialidades e inserindo lógicas de produção e comercialização aos agentes tradicionais (indígenas e camponeses), acompanhado lado a lado pelas estruturas estatais e privadas e pelos avanços da biotecnologia.
Effect of Lamination on Interpreting Formation Permeability and Pressure Responses from Wirelilne Formation Testing
Authors: Yang Min , Yang Daoyong , Chen Andrew
Published: May 2017

In this paper, techniques have been developed to examine the effect of lamination on interpreting formation permeability in a hydrocarbon reservoir by numerically simulating the measured pumpout flow and pressure responses from wireline formation testing (WFT) measurements. With the field data obtained from a dual packer tool in the Deepwater Gulf of Mexico, a high-resolution near-wellbore numerical model has been developed and validated to simulate the fluid sampling process together with transient pressure. History matching has been performed with field data to assess the effective thickness and then interpret the permeability for each flow unit. Subsequently, eight cases have been generated under various configurations of the laminated layers. The pressure buildup derivatives obtained from both packers and observation probes are used as a diagnosis tool to examine the effect of lamination on WFT measurements. Mud-filtrate invasion affects the early-time behaviour of pressure transients because of the associated changes in fluid viscosity and compositions. It is found that low vertical permeability can behave as a vertical barrier for the flow in a WFT tool, indicating difference contrast in permeability between individual flow units. As for the field case, effective water horizontal permeabilities for Tests #1 and #2 are found to be 14.0 mD and 10.6 mD, respectively. A low vertical permeability results in a distortion in the derivatives, particularly during the transition between flow regimes. In a laminated reservoir, a radial flow regime will develop when both the radial length of lamination is greater than the vertical formation interval and complete circular shape of lamination is formed. It is recommended that any observation probe be positioned in or below the lamination layer to accurately define the vertical communication of lamination as well as its configuration. If the dual packers and observation probes are located in the same zone, their pressure responses exhibit the same flow regimes. If the dual packer and observation probes are located in different flow units, pressure changes in the observation probes can be developed when a partially sealing lamination exists.
Successful Implementations of Integrated Asset Modeling
Authors: Hoda M. F. , Hoffmann A.. , Majzoub Dahouk M.. , Kuntadi A.. , Astutik W.. , Juell A.. , Whitson C. H.
Published: May 2017

Oil and gas production systems are complex and usually consist of several production elements and corresponding models: (1) reservoirs modelled with reservoir simulators using geological and fluid data, (2) wells and surface production networks modelled with flow assurance applications, (3) surface processing facilities modelled in process simulators and (4) economic models. The traditional approach ("silo" approach) consists of modelling each part of the system independently from the others without considering upstream and/or downstream interactions. Integrated Asset Modelling (IAM) is a maturing solution incorporating effects of all the elements of an asset. This paper shows the benefits of successful IAM implementations in four highly complex and technically challenging assets around the globe.

IAM aims to bring together all models of the value chain, from the reservoir to the point of sales. It enables us to perform numerous sensitivity analysis by changing any parameter across the value chain and investigate its influence on the entire system. The presentation concludes with guidelines and best practices for IAM implementation. It especially focuses on three very important issues faced when dealing with IAM: (1) software and model integration, (2) PVT consistency across the value chain and (3) optimization.

Several case studies from the industry are used as illustration: diluent injection optimization for a heavy oil field in the North Sea, integration of reservoir and process models for a complex offshore multi-field asset in Indonesia, production allocation for an onshore multi-field asset in South America and API blending optimization for a multi-field asset in Middle East. The different case studies show that benefits of implementing an IAM approach can be significant and immediate: higher production, lower OPEX or better information for further CAPEX.

In the current market situation, IAM approach is a cost-effective solution to optimize oil and gas production. By bringing together existing information and models from all parts of the production system, IAM breaks barriers between disciplines and enables an asset-scale overview that leads to more informed decision-making and ultimately higher profits for operators.
Turf Quality and Species Dynamics in Bermudagrass and Kentucky Bluegrass Mixtures
Authors: Menegon Alessandro , Macolino Stefano , McCalla John H. , Rimi Filippo , Richardson Michael D.
Published: May 2017

Core Ideas

In transitional environments, mixtures of bermudagrass and Kentucky bluegrass can provide green cover year‐round.

In mixtures, cultivars of bermudagrass characterized by slow green‐up favor the survival of Kentucky bluegrass.

The choice of Kentucky bluegrass cultivars has limited practical impact on the performance of mixtures with bermudagrass.

Climatic changes and the need to reduce water consumption for irrigation have led to expanded use of warm‐season turf species in transitional zones. Turf managers are often hesitant to use warm‐season species because they undergo dormancy for a long period during the winter. Although this issue might be addressed by mixing cool‐ with warm‐season species, there is a lack of information on the performance and dynamics of species succession in such turfgrass mixtures. A 2‐yr investigation was conducted in Legnaro, Italy, and Fayetteville, AR, to test the turf quality and species succession in mixtures of various cultivars of bermudagrass (BG) [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] with Kentucky bluegrass (KBG) (Poa pratensis L.). Bermudagrass cultivars, Yukon and Veracruz, were seeded in June 2011 at 5 g m−2 and KBG cultivars Brooklawn, Mystere, and Nublue Plus were overseeded in September 2011 at 30 g m−2. Across both studies, the frequency of BG in the mixture was generally higher for Yukon and ranged from 40 to 95%. However, the mixtures with Veracruz had superior turf quality in Legnaro from October 2012 to March 2013. The species succession was influenced by BG cultivars, whereas KBG cultivar had little effect on the rate of plant composition change. On the basis of these results, the choice of BG cultivar appears critical for establishing functional KBG and BG mixtures in transitional zones.
Poultry Litter Placement Effects on Cotton Seedling Emergence and Early Growth
Authors: Lin Yaru , Watts Dexter B. , Way Thomas R.
Published: May 2017

Core Ideas

Sowing into poultry litter bands inhibits seed emergence and root establishment.

Aboveground plant production during early cotton growth stages may be negatively impacted by sowing into poultry litter bands.

Banding poultry litter beside crop rows may be an effective fertilizer management strategy.

Interest in using poultry litter (PL) as a nutrient source for row crop production has increased in the southeastern United States. Poultry litter is generally broadcasted on the soil surface. This practice exposes N to volatilization and P to loss with surface water runoff, which potentially negatively impacts the environment. Placing PL in narrow bands below the soil surface has been shown to reduce such losses and improve crop yield, but the influence of band placement on seedling emergence and growth is not well understood. A glasshouse experiment was conducted with a Marvyn loamy sand to determine the effects of PL placement on emergence and early growth of cotton (Gossypium hirsutumL.). Poultry litter placement was compared with ammonium sulfate (AS); both were applied at a rate of 112 kg N ha−1. The PL and AS treatments consisted of surface broadcasting, banding 5 cm below or to the side of seed, seeding directly in bands, and an unfertilized control. Banding 5 cm to the side of seeds produced emergence rates, plant biomass, leaf area, leaf chlorophyll content, and root morphological parameters similar to those of the control and surface broadcast treatments for cotton fertilized with AS and PL. However, seeds placed directly in PL or AS bands had the lowest emergence rate and growth parameters. Therefore, banding PL 5 cm or more to the side of seeds may be an effective fertilizer management strategy for cotton production.
Patterns of Benthic Fauna Distribution in Wells: The Role of Anthropogenic Impact and Geology
Authors: Dumnicka Elzbieta , Galas Joanna , Krodkiewska Mariola
Published: May 2017

Core Ideas

Geology does not seem to influence fauna composition in the studied wells.

Water chemistry does not differ significantly in wells placed on limestone and flysch.

Water pollution affects the abundance and diversity of wells fauna.

Fauna distribution depends mainly on depth and age of the wells.

Surface water fauna prevail; only three stygobiontic species were found.

This study was undertaken to determine the factors that influence the composition of macroinvertebrate communities in wells completed into two different bedrocks, limestone and flysch. The chemical parameters of the water in wells of both kinds did not significantly differ. The anthropogenic impact on the quality of water was revealed in some wells in both areas, which resulted in relatively low fauna diversity and abundance in polluted wells. Canonical correspondence analyses suggested that depth, age, sediment organic matter content, water oxygenation, and conductivity best explained the variance in the distribution of benthic fauna taxa. Among the 19 taxa that were determined to the family level, oligochaetous Clitellata dominated. They were represented by 13 species and one genus. Among them, two stygobionts,Trichodrilus moravicusandRhyacodrilus subterraneus, were determined. Moreover, only one crustacean stygobiont,Niphargus tatrensis, was found, and it occurred only in a single well. A low number and abundance of stygobionts and stygophiles compared with stygoxenes was observed. Our studies showed that bedrock substratum does not influence macroinvertebrate composition.
Evaluating the Relative Importance of Shallow Subsurface Flow in a Prairie Landscape
Authors: Ross Cody A. , Ali Genevieve , Bansah Samuel , Laing Janelle R.
Published: May 2017

Core Ideas

Contrary to established theories, vadose water contributes considerably to Canadian Prairie stormflow.

Travel velocities of subsurface flow may exceed surface flow in some cases.

Traqnsmissivity feedback and macropore flow promote “old” water deliveryto Prairie streams.

Hydrologic literature on the Northern Great Plains, including the Canadian Prairies, has mainly focused on Hortonian overland flow as the dominant runoff generation mechanism. This study focused on subsurface water movement and its contribution to streamflow in high‐latitude, subhumid, prairie landscapes with flat topography. Three “riparian‐to‐stream” sites were monitored in southeastern Manitoba, Canada, and four hydrologic events (snowmelt triggered and rainfall triggered) were selected for analysis. A dual water sourcing strategy, including conservative and non‐conservative tracers, was applied to distinguish the relative importance of event (“new”) and pre‐event (“old”) runoff sources. Surrogate measures of antecedent wetness conditions (AWCs: based on rainfall, snow water equivalent, and soil saturation) data and streamflow and water table fluctuation data were used to identify factors influencing the contributions of different runoff sources. Results showed significant old water contributions during snowmelt‐ and rainfall‐triggered events, especially during the summer season. At an engineered grassland site, decreases in snow cover extent were accompanied by “flashy,” high‐magnitude stream hydrographs. Larger peak discharge was observed coincident to elevated AWCs at all sites. Travel velocities of surface‐applied dye were faster than those of subsurface‐applied dye, except for one rainfall‐triggered event. Rapid delivery of old water to streams was observed and hypothesized to be the result of macropore flow, piston flow, or transmissivity feedback depending on the season and water table position. Further investigations are recommended to increase our understanding of subsurface runoff generation mechanisms that promote the rapid movement of old water from riparian areas to streams in Canadian Prairie landscapes.
A method for incorporating a time-dose-response model into a Giardia lamblia outbreak
Authors: Prasad Bidya , Ryan Michael O. , Haas Charles N.
Published: May 2017

Experimental time-to-infection data is a useful, but often underutilized, material for examining the mechanics of in vivo pathogen growth. In this paper, the authors attempt to incorporate a time-dose-response (TDR) equation into a model which predicts the number of ill persons per day in a Giardia lamblia epidemic using data collected from a Pittsfield, Massachusetts outbreak. To this end, dose-response and TDR models were generated for Giardia exposure to beaver and human volunteers, and a maximum likelihood estimation approach was used to ensure that the models provided acceptable fits. The TDR equation that best-fit the human data was the beta-Poisson with exponential-reciprocal dependency model, and this was chosen to be incorporated into the outbreak model. The outbreak model is an expanded probability model that convolutes an assumed incubation distribution of the infectious agent with an exposure distribution. Since the beta-Poisson with exponential-reciprocal dependency models the time-to-infection density distribution, it is input as the incubation distribution. Several density functions, including the Weibull, lognormal, gamma, and uniform functions served as exposure distributions. The convolution of the time-dependent probability distribution with the lognormal distribution yielded the best-fit for the outbreak model.
Pentachlorophenol degradation by Pseudomonas fluorescens
Authors: Ammeri Rim Werheni , Mehri Ines , Badi Souhir , Hassen Wafa , Hassen Abdenaceur
Published: May 2017

Fluorescent Pseudomonads strains were considered as plant growth promoting bacteria. They exhibited antagonistic activities against phytopathogens and showed bio-fertilizing properties. The strain Pseudomonas fluorescens PsWw128, isolated from wastewater, can use the pentachlorophenol (PCP) as the sole source of carbon and energy. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and spectrophotometric methods were used to follow the PCP degradation and biomass PsWw128 formation. However, the removal efficiency of PCP was highly significant. Thus, PsWw128 was able to degrade more than 99% of PCP when this isolate was grown under a high concentration of PCP (250 mg L–1) in a mineral salts medium (MSM). The simultaneous utilization of glucose and PCP indicates the diauxic growth pattern of PsWw128. PCP addition (100 mg L–1) in the growth medium can contribute to a decrease of the antibiotic susceptibility, and increase the biofilm development. In the presence of the toxic pollutant PCP (100, 200 and 250 mg L–1), the antibiotic sensitivity showed a decrease concerning the seven antibiotics tested. Furthermore, the biofilm formation appeared very low with OD600 = 0.075 in the Brain infusion broth supplemented with 25% of glucose, and developed a significant growth with an OD600 = 1.809 in the MSM supplemented with 250 mg L–1 of PCP.
Simulation of multiple water source ecological replenishment for Chagan Lake based on coupled hydrodynamic and water quality models
Authors: Zhang L. , Hipsey M. R. , Zhang G. X. , Busch B. , Li H. Y.
Published: May 2017

Chagan Lake serves as an irrigation storage reservoir for the Qianguo Irrigation Area and an important ecological barrier in western Jilin. The coupled TUFLOW-FV and Aquatic Ecodynamic (AED2) models were used to simulate the hydrodynamic and water quality of Chagan Lake, and propose the water diversion scheme that could improve the water quality to reach Grade III and maintain the ecological water level. The simulation results showed a satisfactory agreement with observations. The total carrying loads of NH3-N, total nitrogen (TN) and total phosphorus (TP) for Chagan Lake were 1,147.6, 3,686.2 and 100.8 t from May to October. The range of the minimum amounts of water diversion to keep the water quality as Grade III and maintain the maximum ecological water level of 131.5 m for TN, TP were separately [32.60, 49.84, 57.19, 63.70, 70.91], [117.25, 135.26, 168.17, 190.65, 218.32] million m3 and the corresponding reduction amounts of farmland drainage for TN, TP were separately [4.03, 0, 0, 0, 0], [73.08, 61.88, 50.23, 40.94, 31.98] million m3 under the rainfall guarantee rates of 10%, 20%, 50%, 75%, 90%, respectively. The simulation results provide a scientific basis for the water quality improvement and ecological water supplement required for the interconnected river–lake system network (IRLSN) in Western Jilin Province.
Bilateral Ovarian Torsion during Follow-up for Antenatally Detected Ovarian Cysts
Authors: Župančić Božidar , Bašković Marko , Sović Ljudevit , Habek Dubravko
Published: May 2017

Ovarian torsion is a surgical emergency demanding timely diagnosis and treatment to prevent loss of the ovaries which if happens may result in functional and emotional consequences. Simple (less than 5cm in size) ovarian cysts require follow-up for potential self-resolution. We describe a case of antenatally detected bilateral ovarian cysts that developed bilateral ovarian torsions on follow-up, postnatally.
Bilateral Testicular Loss due to Dog Bite in a Child
Authors: Nara Taketoshi , Hisamatsu Eiji , Haruna Akiko , Sugita Yoshifumi
Published: May 2017

Although animal bites are common, genital trauma caused by animal bites is rare. Here we report a case of bilateral testicular loss in an infant due to a dog bite. The patient was bitten by a friend’s dog while his mother was intoxicated and, therefore, did not receive immediate medical attention. Although initial treatment with subsequent genital reconstruction and hormone replacement is important for children with genital trauma, it is too important to make home safe for them.
The Involvement of Post-Translational Modifications in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Marcelli Serena , Corbo Massimo , Iannuzzi Filomena , Negri Lucia , Blandini Fabio , Nistico Robert , Feligioni Marco
Published: May 2017

Background:

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder recognized as the most
common cause of chronic dementia among the ageing population. AD is histopathologically characterized by
progressive loss of neurons and deposits of insoluble proteins, primarily composed of amyloid-β pelaques and
neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs).

Methods:

Several molecular processes contribute to the formation of AD cellular hallmarks. Among them,
post-translational modifications (PTMs) represent an attractive mechanism underlying the formation of covalent
bonds between chemical groups/peptides to target proteins, which ultimately result modified in their function.
Most of the proteins related to AD undergo PTMs. Several recent studies show that AD-related proteins
like APP, Aβ, tau, BACE1 undergo post-translational modifications. The effect of PTMs contributes to the
normal function of cells, although aberrant protein modification, which may depend on many factors, can
drive the onset or support the development of AD.

Results:

Here we will discuss the effect of several PTMs on the functionality of AD-related proteins potentially
contributing to the development of AD pathology.

Conclusion:

We will consider the role of Ubiquitination, Phosphorylation, SUMOylation, Acetylation and
Nitrosylation on specific AD-related proteins and, more interestingly, the possible interactions that may occur
between such different PTMs.
Lipid Biomarkers in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Zarrouk Amira , Debbabi Meryam , Bezine Maryem , Karym El Mostafa , Badreddine Asmaa , Rouaud Olivier , Moreau Thibault , Cherkaoui-Malki Mustapha , El Ayeb Mohamed , Nasser Boubker , Hammami Mohamed , Lizard Gerard
Published: May 2017

Background:

There are now significant evidences that lipid metabolism is affected in numerous
neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer’s disease. These dysfunctions lead to abnormal
levels of certain lipids in the brain, cerebrospinal fluid and plasma. It is consequently of interest to establish
lipid profiles in neurodegenerative diseases. This approach, which can contribute to identify lipid
biomarkers of Alzheimers' disease, can also permit to identify new therapeutic targets. It was therefore
of interest to focus on central and peripheral biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease.

Methods:

A review of the literature on 148 papers was conducted. Based on this literature, the involvement
of lipids (cholesterol and oxysterols, fatty acids, phospholipids) in Alzheimer's disease has been
proposed.

Results:

Of the 148 references cited for lipid biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease, 65 refer to cholesterol
and oxysterols, 35 to fatty acids and 40 to phospholipids. Among these lipids, some of them such as
24S-hydroxyckolesterol, open up new therapeutic perspectives in gene therapy, in particular. The results
on the very long-chain fatty acids suggest the potential of peroxisomal dysfunctions in Alzheimer's disease.
As for the phospholipids, they could constitute interesting biomarkers for detecting the disease at
the prodromal stage.

Conclusion:

There are now several lines of evidence that lipids play fundamental roles in the pathogenesis
of AD and that some of them have a prognostic and diagnosis value. This may pave the way for
the identification of new therapeutic targets, new effective drugs and / or new treatments.
Knowledge About Chronic Orofacial Pain Among General Dentists of Kermanshah, Iran
Authors: Rezaei Fatemeh , Sharifi Roohollah , Shahrezaee Hamid R. , Mozaffari Hamid R.
Published: May 2017

Background and Objective:

Diagnosis and treatment of chronic orofacial pain are one of the most challenging issues in dentistry. The purpose of this study was to assess the knowledge of general dentists regarding orofacial pain in Kermanshah, Iran.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016 including general dentists of Kermanshah city. A researcher-designed questionnaire was administered to collect demographic data as well as measuring knowledge of the dentists in four sections including etiology, clinical presentations, physical examination, and treatment of chronic orofacial pain. The questionnaire had acceptable validity (content validity > 0.9) and reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient= 0.857 for test re-test; Cronbach’s alpha= 0.72 for internal consistency). The data were analyzed by the SPSS software (ver. 18.0) using Spearman’s correlation coefficient (P< 0.05).

Results:

There were 121 male (72.9%) and 45 female (27.1%) dentists with mean (SD) age of 40.55 (8.03) years and mean (SD) practice history of 13.28 (8.43) years. Mean (SD) knowledge score was 10.54 (2.36) (maximum possible score= 15). 48.2% of dentists had good knowledge in overall. 48.2% about etiology, 45.2% about clinical presentations, 36.1% about physical examination, and 7.8% about treatment had good knowledge. Knowledge had direct and significant relationship with age (r = 0.179;P= 0.022) and practice history (r = 0.18;P= 0.021).

Conclusion:

The results showed that the studied dentists did not have enough knowledge about chronic orofacial pain especially in the treatment field. Therefore, it is recommended to implement educational programs to improve their knowledge.
A Study on the Microbiological Status of Mineral Drinking Water
Authors: Aditi Faria Y. , Rahman Shafkat S. , Hossain Md. M.
Published: May 2017

Introduction:

Water-borne diseases constitute a major health burden in Bangladesh. The objective of this study was to assess the overall quality of mineral water samples that obtained from different shops of Dhaka city.

Material and Methods:

To achieve the above-mentioned objective, methods of heterotrophic plate count (HPC) and total coliform count (TCC) were applied. Moreover, isolated colony from mineral water samples were characterized by using biochemical and antimicrobial susceptibility tests.

Results:

Different water samples showed different HPC ranged from 1.0×10 to 8.00×102. Antimicrobial sensitivity test of some selected bacteria vizS. intermedius, S. aureus, S. felisandS. Saccharolyticuswere performed. It was observed thatStaphylococcusspp. isolates were susceptible to erythromycin, tetracycline, norfloxacin and ciprofloxacin. Furthermore, a fewStaphylococcusspp. isolates were intermediate resistant to penicillin and oxacillin. However, most of theStaphylococcusspp. isolates were resistant to cefixime.

Conclusion:

The results indicate that mineral water serves as a reservoir of various bacteria and that people in Dhaka city, who are the consumers of these water, might get diseases. This study emphasizes the need for elaborated microbiological examinations of mineral drinking water commonly used in Dhaka city.
Understanding the Mechanism of Bacterial Biofilms Resistance to Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Singh Shriti , Singh Santosh Kumar , Chowdhury Indrajit , Singh Rajesh
Published: May 2017

A biofilm is a group of microorganisms, that causes health problems for the patients with indwelling medical devicesviaattachment of cells to the surface matrix. It increases the resistance of a microorganism for antimicrobial agents and developed the human infection. Current strategies are removed or prevent the microbial colonies from the medical devices, which are attached to the surfaces. This will improve the clinical outcomes in favor of the patients suffering from serious infectious diseases. Moreover, the identification and inhibition of genes, which have the major role in biofilm formation, could be the effective approach for health care systems. In a current review article, we are highlighting the biofilm matrix and molecular mechanism of antimicrobial resistance in bacterial biofilms.