bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inclusión social de las estudiantes que hablan lengua indígena en la división académica de educación y artes de la Universidad Juárez autónoma de tabasco - México
Authors: Gordillo Fuentes Eduardo , Rojas León Perla , Morales Murillo Armando
Published: April 2019

El  paso  de  la  estudiante  indígena  por  la  universidad  pública convencional  es  un  caso  prácticamente  desconocido  y  poco estudiado  en  la  investigación  educativa  de  nuestro  país.  Los indígenas pero en especial las mujeres, son discriminados por las estadísticas  y  por  un  gran  número  de  registros  administrativos. De  tal  forma  que  existe  un  vacío  de  conocimiento  en  el  sentido del ingreso, experiencias de vida universitaria y destinos de las estudiantes  de  origen  étnico  que  cruzan  por  las  aulas universitarias. La DAEA carece de estudios al respecto que puedan fundamentar  la creación  de un  programa de inclusividad social  de las  estudiantes  indígenas,  que  responda  a  las  necesidades  de atención  a  la  diversidad  y  diferencias  etnolingüísticas,  que poseemos  como  riqueza  cultural  identitaria.  Esa  “minoría” que cursa sus licenciaturas en la DAEA no termina por sentirse parte de  la  comunidad  universitaria.  Ese  desarraigo  de  su  origen  nos lleva  a  plantear  la  interrogante  de  ¿cómo  la  universidad convencional puede  incluir  el  enfoque  intercultural  en  la práctica?  y  que  no  quede  solamente  en  papel  para  que  estas alumnas se sientan integradas del tal modo que sus saberes formen parte de los saberes de la población no HLI.
Validación de instrumento de medición para el diagnóstico del proceso de formación de pregrado
Authors: López Collazo Zeidy , González Lang Olga , Álvarez Blanco Yaramí
Published: April 2019

El presente artículo revela el proceder realizado por los autores en el diseño y elaboración del instrumento de medición Cuestionario de encuesta a estudiantes para el diagnóstico del proceso de formación de pregrado, todo lo cual emana del proyecto de investigación “Modelo pedagógico acorde con las demandas del siglo XXI para la formación de profesionales en la Universidad de Artemisa”. Se consideran los procedimientos que permitieron adjudicar validez y confiabilidad al instrumento de medición y se exponen los análisis estadísticos que evalúan la consistencia interna del cuestionario a partir de la aplicación del Coeficiente de Correlación Multidimensional rpj, un novedoso y reconocido procedimiento lógico aceptado por la Teoría Clásica de los Test. El pilotaje se realizó a una muestra intencional de 13 estudiantes de la carrera de Lenguas Extranjeras de la Facultad de Ciencias de la Educación, por constituir un grupo homogéneo con una apropiada motivación por sus estudios. Al aplicar el coeficiente a los resultados que se registraron en cada una de las preguntas del instrumento se obtuvieron valores oscilantes entre 0,58 y 0,64 lo cual infiere que el instrumento tiene consistencia y por tanto es confiable.
Algunas consideraciones en torno a la restauración turística post terremoto de la ciudad de Manta, Manabí, Ecuador
Authors: Becerra José Vicente , Becerra Ávila Mauricio Arturo , Quijije Moreira Pedro Vicente
Published: April 2019

Este artículo tiene como objetivo discutir estrategias y acciones para la restauración de Manta, ciudad que fue impactada por el terremoto del 16 de abril de 2016. Se abordó metodológicamente como una investigación descriptiva, documental y de campo, apoyada en consultas bibliográficas y en la aplicación de entrevistas no estructuradas a informantes clave que forman parte de los afectados y que a su vez son actores del turismo local de Manta. Parte de los datos fueron obtenidos directamente de la fuente; con observación de campo, pero también con la consulta y revisión de material bibliográfico diverso, entre ellos, informes del Consejo de Operaciones de Emergencia (COE) del municipio; lo cual permitió tener una aproximación al estado en que quedó la planta hotelera manteña posterior a la ocurrencia del sismo. Se plantea la necesidad de implementar un conjunto de estrategias y acciones enmarcadas en un plan de restauración en materia de infraestructura turística y hotelera, a los fines de atraer un flujo de visitantes acorde a las nuevas características del destino.
Bloques multinutricionales a partir del contenido ruminal seco. Una contribución a la alimentación animal y la descontaminación ambiental
Authors: Gutiérrez Borroto Odilia , Savón Valdés Lourdes Lucila , Cairo Sotolongo Juan Gualberto , Vasallo Jamet George , Benítez Díaz Ana Jeydi , Domínguez Sierra Malbelis
Published: April 2019

Se condujo una secuencia experimental para comprobar la eficacia del contenido ruminal seco como constituyente energético-proteico en la producción de bloques nutricionales para la alimentación animal. La composición química del contenido ruminal seco mostró valores de proteína bruta cercanos al 10%, FB 42 % y FDN 87 %. Los bloques multinutricionales elaborados con 25 % del contenido ruminal seco y 10 % de urea presentaron un contenido de materia seca, cenizas, proteína bruta, materia orgánica, calcio, y magnesio de 74, 24, 25, 75, 9.16 y 0.82 % BS respectivamente con un índice de penetración cercano a 12.5 kgf/cm3 y los análisis microbiológicos mostraron la inocuidad del producto final. Las pruebas de aceptabilidad por carneros y novillas en condiciones de estabulación indicaron consumos adecuados durante el periodo de observación con cifras que se incrementaron a medida que transcurrió el tiempo de ofrecimiento. El consumo voluntario de pastos de novillas en pastoreo y la digestibilidad aparente de la materia seca de la dieta no difirieron entre los tratamientos con alimentos concentrados y los bloques multinutricionales con cifras promedio de 7 kg animal día-1. Los resultados demuestran que es posible utilizar el contenido ruminal seco como componente de los bloques multinutricionales para la alimentación animal lo que a su vez contribuye a la descontaminación ambiental.
Simulación de la dinámica de un secador solar usando la teoría del caos
Authors: Haro Velasteguí Arquímides , Llosas Albuerne Yolanda , Fernández Maria
Published: April 2019

The simulation is a technique that represents a system, It allows to diagnose its operation, help establish its behavior and control their possible variations, why has become a very important tool in technology development, saving money, time and work. Despite the advantages, there are systems that are extremely difficult to simulate, since its complexity and unpredictability in time is very large, especially those associated with environmental conditions as in the case of solar drying is subject to variables weather, although it is designed properly functioning models regarding the efficiency obtained, but little has been done to improve it, given the development of alternative technologies or applications that have been given to it. In this framework and in order to contribute to the improvement of this type of technology that can be easily adopted by developing countries, with which they can make much better use their natural resources and knowledge, without major technological investment and high degree of accuracy, the present investigation is proposed to apply the Chaos Theory applies as operating base  of a solar drying  model in conditions of the Ecuadorian Highlands

Index Terms— Secador solar, modelo matemático, teoría del caos, modelo de simulación, energía solar, altiplano Ecuatoriano.
Endorsement of inconsistent imperatives
Authors: Condoravdi Cleo , Jarvis Rebecca , Jeong Sunwoo
Published: March 2019

There is an ongoing debate regarding how imperatives convey speaker endorsement. One line of approach builds it into the imperative meaning. Another posits weaker meanings. Indifference uses, like 'Go right! Go left! I don't care!', pose a challenge to the endorsement account. We reconcile the endorsement approach with such uses and argue that they can reduce to the speaker endorsing disjunctive prejacents, which results from one imperative operator taking a list of prejacents under its scope. This analysis predicts that intonational patterns that signal lists will facilitate disjunctive interpretations. We test and confirm this prediction in an experimental study.
The Italian version of rheumatoid arthritis pain scale (IT-RAPS): psychometric properties on community and clinical samples
Authors: Tofani M. , Nobilia M. , Culicchia G. , Esposito G. , Savona A. , Tashi I. , Ventura A. , Galeoto G.
Published: April 2019

This paper describes the validation process of the Italian version of the Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain Scale (ITRAPS), describing its translation and adaptation to Italian culture. The cultural adaptation and validation were based on data from a sample of people affected by rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The process required a forward and backward translation of the original language, reviewed by an expert panel. The adapted version of the RAPS was then tested on a community and clinical sample, in order to test its psychometric properties. The IT-RAPS was submitted to 122 people affected by RA. The data was analyzed using Cronbach’s coefficient alpha and the Pearson product-moment correlation coefficients. The IT-RAPS showed an internal consistency reliability coefficient of 0.96. This is the first study reporting the validation and cross-cultural adaptation of the RAPS in Italian. The study’s findings provided support for the IT-RAPS as a reliable and valid measurement of multidimensional pain in RA patients.
The five-factor model and individualism and collectivism in South Africa: Implications for personality assessment
Authors: Laher Sumaya , Dockrat Safia
Published: March 2019

The five-factor model (FFM) of personality is one of the prominent models in contemporary psychology and defines personality in terms of five broad factors, namely Neuroticism, Extraversion, Openness to Experience, Agreeableness and Conscientiousness. Recent research, however, questions the applicability of the FFM in non-Western cultures, suggesting that it is not exhaustive enough and that it does not account for some other personality factors, most notably Individualism and Collectivism. Yet, it remains the gold standard against which all personality instruments are compared. This study investigated whether the FFM of personality is related to Individualism and/or Collectivism in a sample of 272 South Africans from the general Johannesburg area. Individuals completed a questionnaire consisting of a demographic section, the Horizontal–Vertical Individualism/Collectivism scale and the NEO-PI-3. Exploratory factor analysis was used to analyse the data. The results indicated support for an Individualism–Collectivism dimension. These results are discussed within the context of the universal applicability of the FFM.
Oб эволюции Шрама-Лeвнера для суперконформных алгебр
Authors: Koshida Shinji
Published: April 2019

С использованием теоретико-групповой формулировки предлагается вариант эволюции Шрама-Лeвнера, который связан с суперконформными алгебрами. Соответствующее стохастическое дифференциальное уравнение выводится из случайного процесса на бесконечномерной группе Ли. Рассмотрены случайные процессы на группах суперконформных преобразований определенного вида, которые порождаются степенями элементов грассмановой обертывающей алгебры для суперконформных алгебр. Представлен способ получения локальных мартингалов из представления суперконформной алгебры после интегрирования по грассмановым переменным.
Georges Hébert e a legitimação do esporte no Brasil: notas a partir da imprensa (1920-1930)
Authors: Jubé Carolina Nascimento , Quitzau Evelise Amgarten
Published: April 2019

As primeiras décadas do século XX constituem, no Brasil, um período marcado por um ímpeto de industrialização, urbanização e modernização. Neste contexto, o esporte começou a despontar como uma prática com grande potencial higiênico, educativo e de sociabilidade, tornando-se símbolo de modernidade entre as elites e os intelectuais brasileiros. Estes grupos frequentemente publicavam artigos em defesa do esporte em distintos periódicos, utilizando distintos autores para legitimar estas práticas, entre eles Georges Hébert, conhecido atualmente por sua crítica à prática esportiva como um fim em si mesmo e como espetáculo. O objetivo deste artigo é compreender a recepção da obra de Hébert e seus usos na discussão sobre o esporte em periódicos de grande circulação publicados no Brasil entre 1920 e 1930. Observa-se nestes periódicos certo entusiasmo com a obra e as proposições hebertistas, mas, principalmente, usos e abusos de seu nome como argumento de força para legitimar a prática esportiva.
Sustentabilidade financeira da arena Beira-Rio: sede da Copa do Mundo FIFA 2014 em Porto Alegre
Authors: Marchetti Felippe , Reppold Filho Alberto Reinaldo , Schumacher Gustavo Bordin
Published: April 2019

A transformação dos tradicionais estádios de futebol em arenas esportivas multiuso é uma tendência internacional, que foi impulsionada no Brasil pela Copa do Mundo FIFA 2014. O estudo teve por objetivo analisar a sustentabilidade financeira da arena Beira-Rio, uma das sedes do evento. Foram analisados documentos, realizadas visitas às instalações e conduzidas entrevistas com os gestores. Os resultados indicaram que o projeto de utilização do Beira-Rio contempla oito fontes de receitas: bilheteria, espaços VIP, estacionamento, publicidade, centro comercial, eventos não-esportivos, catering e visitação às instalações. O Beira-Rio encontra-se, atualmente, em um processo de transição entre um estádio de futebol tradicional e uma arena esportiva multiuso. Em 2017, apresentou um prejuízo aproximado de R$ 8,08 milhões, não se mostrando financeiramente sustentável; todavia, pode se tornar sustentável, com lucro aproximado de R$ 38,51 milhões anuais, caso se potencialize as fontes de receitas já existentes.
On developing a new ionospheric plasma index for the Brazilian equatorial F region irregularities
Authors: Resende Laysa Cristina Araujo , Denardini Clezio Marcos , Picanço Giorgio Arlan Silva , Moro Juliano , Barros Diego , Figueiredo Cosme Alexandre Oliveira Barros , Silva Régia Pereira
Published: April 2019

Abstract. F region vertical drifts (Vz) are the result of the interaction between the ionospheric plasma with the zonal electric field and the Earth's magnetic field. Abrupt variations in Vz are strongly associated with the occurrence of plasma irregularities (spread-F) during the nighttime periods. These irregularities are manifestations of the space weather in the ionosphere environment without necessarily require a solar burst. In this context, the Brazilian Space Weather Study and Monitoring Program (Embrace) of the National Institute for Space Research (INPE) has been developing different indexes to analyze these ionospheric irregularities in the Brazilian sector. Therefore, the main purpose of this work was to produce a new ionospheric scale based on the analysis of the ionospheric plasma drift velocity, named AV. It is based in the maximum value of Vz (Vzp), which in turn is calculated through its relationship with the virtual height parameter, h’F, measured by the Digisonde Portable Sounder (DPS-4D) installed in São Luís (2° S, 44° O, dip: −2,3°). This index quantifies the time relation between the Vz peak and the irregularity observed in the ionogramas. Thus, in this study, we analyzed 8 years of data, between 2009 and 2015, divided by season in order to construct a standardized scale. The results show there is a delay of at least 15 minutes between Vzp observation and the irregularity occurrence. Finally, we believe that this proposed index allow evaluating the impacts of ionospheric phenomena in the Space Weather environment recently.
Sosiale og biologiske prosesser i fedme og vektregulering hos barn: Et kritisk blikk på «det kompetente barnet»
Authors: Iveland Ersfjord Ellen Margrete
Published: March 2019

I denne artikkelen skal jeg gi et kritisk blikk på «det kompetente barnet» hva gjelder sosiale og biologiske prosesser i fedme og vektregulering hos barn. Innledningsvis presenteres biologiske og sosiale årsaker til utvikling av fedme, og hvorfor disse ikke kan forstås som separate prosesser. Vi skal deretter se hvordan forståelsen av «det kompetente barnet» innen pediatrisk fedmebehandling påvirkes av kulturelle forståelser av barn, barndom, «familie» og barns helse, og at barn i dag ikke får optimal innsikt i sin lidelse og behandling. Dette fører til at barn med fedme både forstås, og antagelig forstår seg selv, som ikke-kompetente i forhold til sin lidelse.
Distinción de un Evento Sísmico: ¿Terremoto o Explosión Nuclear?
Authors: Serrano Miguel Angel
Published: April 2019

En este artículo introducimos el esfuerzo de CTBTO, Organización del Tratado de Prohibición Completa de los Ensayos Nucleares, para discernir eventos sísmicos, o sea determinar si son un terremoto o una prueba nuclear. Luego presentamos distintos conceptos y técnicas que podemos utilizar nosotros para determinar si un evento es natural o una explosión. Por último concluimos con una serie de ejemplos en los cuales aplicamos dichos criterios para luego determinar cual es la naturaleza de los eventos analizados.
Examining the Decision to Opt In versus Opt Out of Section 107 of the JOBS Act of 2012: Determinants and Consequences
Authors: Bergner Jason , Brooks Marcus R. , Guragai Binod
Published: March 2019

The Jumpstart Our Business Startups Act of 2012 (hereafter, JOBS Act) creates a new category of firms, referred to as “Emerging Growth Companies” (hereafter, EGCs). Section 107 of the JOBS Act, titled “Opt-In Right for EGCs,” gives EGCs the choice to take advantage of an extended transition period for complying with new or revised accounting standards. In other words, an EGC can choose to delay the adoption of new or revised accounting standards until those standards would otherwise apply to private companies. Using a logistic regression approach with hand-collected data, we examine the underlying firm characteristics associated with EGCs’ choice of opting in or out of the accounting standards exemption, as provided by Section 107 of the JOBS Act. Using additional ordinary least square regression analyses, we further examine whether the choice of opting in or out is associated with earnings management and financial statement restatement behavior. Our results suggest that EGC firms designated as “smaller reporting companies” are more likely to choose to delay the adoption of a new or revised accounting standard (i.e., opt in). Our findings also show that EGCs that employ Big 4 auditors are more likely to opt out. We further find that EGCs that choose to opt out are less likely to engage in earnings management behavior, proxied by the absolute value of abnormal accruals, and are less likely to restate their financial statements. Taken together, our findings suggest that EGCs that choose to opt out of Section 107 produce higher quality financial statements.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for English Language Teaching Vol 12 No 4
Authors: Yu Gavin
Published: March 2019

Reviewer acknowledgements for English Language Teaching, Vol. 12, No. 4, 2019
Indigenous Knowledge Systems for Local Weather Predictions: A Case of Mukonchi Chiefdom in Zambia
Authors: Mbewe Mabvuto , Phiri A. , Siyambango N.
Published: March 2019

The purpose of the study was to unravel constituents of the indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) and appreciate people’s experiences in predicting the weather in daily undertakings. The objectives of the study were; to identify factors or systems used, establish the knowledge used in predicting the weather and compare the indigenous and current scientific method of predicting the weather. Qualitative and quantitative research designs were used. Primary data was collected through semi structured, face-to-face and in-depth interviews. This was complemented by secondary data collected through desk reviews of relevant published materials. The findings reveal that indigenous knowledge systems have been employed by people of Mukonchi chiefdom since time immemorial. There has also been reliance on IKS to make decisions pertaining to livelihoods such as agricultural activities. However, IKS in the area remains undocumented. Observation of several occurrences in combination or singularly relating to plants, animals, insects and astronomical events were factors of significant importance in the knowledge of weather extrapolation. Elements such as age, frequency of use of the IKS and level of education were seen to be of momentous prominence in utilisation of the indigenous knowledge as modern means of weather forecasting which are applicable to local community environment.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Education and Learning, Vol. 8, No. 2
Authors: Lin Grace
Published: March 2019

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Education and Learning, Vol. 8, No. 2, 2019
Mobile Based Agriculture and Climate Services Impact on Farming Households in Rural Kenya
Authors: Muasa Lilian , Matsuda Hirotaka
Published: March 2019

Rural farming households in semi-arid regions in Kenya are vulnerable to climate change impacts due to overreliance on rain fed agriculture and low adaptive capacity. Farming households’ adaptive capacity development is detrimental to enable them cope with short and long term impacts. Information Communication and Technology (ICTS) play an essential role in adaptive capacity development by ensuring access to information and knowledge related to agriculture and climate. The mobile phone is one of dominant ICT tool with wider ownership and promising technology for information accessibility. The increasing mobile penetration rate in Kenya has initiated the development of a wide range of agricultural related mobile phone services and applications targeting rural households to increase their agricultural productivity and strengthen their adaptive capacity in the face of climate change. This study examines households use and benefit from the developed mobile phone services and applications to access information related to agriculture and climate change. Using data of 120 households’ multinomial probit analysis is applied to identify factors that determine the adoption of the mobile phone. Findings reveled that through developed mobile phone services and applications, Kenyan rural households are able to access; mobile money banking, extension services, obtain credit, agriculture information, weather information and market information. Access to these services increases household capacity and reduce information asymmetry. Feature phone and smart phones are the types of mobile phone used across households. Multinomial probit analysis elicits that probability of feature phone adoption increases with a decrease in household income while that of smart phone increases on male headed households, increases with an increase in household income and accessibility to credit.
The Economic Impact of Immigration on Domestic Employment in a Dual Economy: A New Sustainable Challenge
Authors: Aldieri Luigi , Bruno Bruna , Vinci Concetto Paolo
Published: March 2019

This paper examines the impact of immigration within an economy based on two sectors, facing administered wages. It is characterized by skilled and unskilled workers. It will be shown that immigration has no effects on skilled employment and negative consequences on employment of unskilled labor.
Grensoverschrijdende omzettingen
Authors: Lavreysen M.J.S.
Published: April 2019

Grensoverschrijdende omzettingen. Gebruiken en hindernissen in de praktijk

Wetgeving ten aanzien van grensoverschrijdende omzettingen laat nog even op zich wachten. Uit interviews met notarissen blijkt dat regelgeving wenselijk is en dat zij nu in de praktijk vooral naar praktische oplossingen zoeken.
Effect of Probiotics on Infantile Colic in Breast-Fed Infants: A Randomized Single-Blind Clinical Trial
Authors: Roohanizadeh Hamed , Karami Hasan , Hashemi Seyyed Abbas
Published: April 2019

Aim: This study examined the impact of probiotics on children's colic in breast-fed infants.
Methods: This study was a randomized single-blind clinical trial. 100 infants were referred to pediatric gastroenterology clinic of Avicenna diagnosed by gastroenterologist of children who suffered from infantile colic and they were qualified after justifying parents and obtaining written consent. (IRCT registration number: IRCT2016082829573N1).
Results: Results showed that there was a statistically significant difference in terms of crying time (p = 0.000) and the arrival and departure of the group. (p = 0.000).
Conclusion: The outcomes indicated that using probiotics could reduce colic in infants and improve the quality of life in this group
EFFECTS OF LOW INTENSIVE 900-MHZ RF-EMR ON ANIMAL BLOOD INDICES AFTER SINGLE ACUTE OR FRACTIONAL TOTAL BODY EXPOSURE
Authors: Bajinyan  , Malakyan  , Yeghiazaryan  , Aghjoyan  , Vardevanya
Published: March 2019

Functional indices of blood plasma and erythrocytes of whiterats exposed to low intensity radio-frequency electromagnetic radiation(RF-EMR) were studied. Two modes of irradiation were used: a) 1-timeaction during 2 hours, i.e. single 2-hour acute exposure; b) fractionalexposure to RF-EMR during 4 consecutive days for 0.5 hour daily.Sham-treated rats served as a Norm. On days 1, 5, 10 and 20 after thelast exposure 5 rats per observation day were sacrificed and bloodsamples were drawn to determine intensity of lipid peroxidation in bloodplasma and erythrocytes, integral antioxidant activity of water-solublenon-enzymatic antioxidants of rat blood plasma, erythrocyte membranepotential, K+ permeability across the erythrocytes membranes, and thefunctional state of the Ca2+-activated K+-channels of erythrocytes.According to data obtained, 900-MHz RF-EMR caused statisticallysignificant changes in the studied parameters both in early and lateobservation periods. Hence, the character and the dynamics of changesdepended on the mode of irradiation. Thus, a conclusion can be drawn that upon total influence on theorganism low intensive EMR with 900 MHz facilitates development oflong-lasting effect manifested as changes in functional characteristics ofblood plasma and red blood cells.
Key words: 900-MHz, blood plasma, erythrocytes, membrane
INDOOR RADON MEASUREMENT IN FORMER URANIUM MINING REGIONS IN BULGARIA
Authors: Ivanova Kremena , Badulin Victor
Published: March 2019

Radon exposure situations have the characteristics of existing exposure situations since the source is unmodified concentrations of ubiquitous natural activity in the earth’s crust. Human activities may create or modify pathways increasing indoor radon concentration compared to outdoor background. The mining and processing of uranium bearing minerals generate a variety of waste materials containing a number of radioactive and non-radioactive hazardous constituents. Conventional underground and open pit mining activities produce overburden, mineralized waste and barren waste rock, which are generally low in their uranium and thorium contents and are left at the mine site. The study focuses on regions of former uranium mining industries, where the radiological risk is higher. Methods: The cumulative (passive) method was used for the study. The measurements are carried out by E PERM® system. Detectors are placed for approximately 6 months in randomly selected houses in former uranium mining sites - Sliven-villages area, Eleshnica and Bachkovo. These sites are situated in mountains in different part of Bulgaria. Results: The results of indoor radon concentration for investigation villages range from 125 Bq/m3 to 4000 Bq/m3. The maximum concentration was measured in Bachkovo village in Rodopi Mountain. This village is the least affected by the former uranium mining industry. Conclusion: The results prove assumption that former uranium mining sites are radon prone areas where radiological risk is higher. The level of indoor radon of residential buildings in areas with higher uranium availability is around or above the recommended reference radon levels. The maximum value of the concentration of radon is measured in areas less affected by uranium mining, proving the necessity to undertake a radon national survey to determine exact radon prone areas.
Key words: Radon concentration, long-term measurement, radon prone areas
CONTROL STRATEGIES OF NITRITE ACCUMULATION IN A SUBMERGED BIOFILTER
Authors: GURBUZ BURHANETTIN
Published: March 2019

Short-cut nitrification under various Nitrogen Loading Rate (NLR), dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations and pHs at a constant temperature of 25 ±1 0C was investigated in a submerged biofilter reactor. The lowest NO2-N/NOx-N ratio was observed when the NLR was up to 160 g/m3·day. Further increase the NLRresulted in incomplete oxidation of ammonium and the effluent NH4-N and NO2-N concentration increased. Although the highest NO2-N/NOx-N ratio of 0.61 was achieved, the NH4-N removal efficiency was drastically dropped to 48% at the NLR of 294 g NH4-N/m3.day. The highest NO2-N/NOx-N ratio of 0.68 was achieved at the pH of 9.0 and 1.0 mg O2/l. However, NN4-N removal efficiency and the NO2-N/NOx-N ratio were sharply dropped to 33% and 0.55 by getting the NLR to 381 g NH4-N/m3⋅day at the DO concentrations of 2.0 mg/l.
Key words: partial nitrification, NO2-N/NOx-N ratio.
IMPROVING BUILDING ENERGY EFFICIENCY USING DISTRIBUTED ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE
Authors: Radic Milica , Petkovic Dejan
Published: March 2019

Saving energy in buildings without losing the comfort of the occupants is contradictory request. It has been shown that the use of smart thermostats to HVAC systems reduce energy consumption as much as thirty percent. Depending on the number of different, pre-defined temperature levels, energy savings might be even greater. The method for determining the coefficient of utilization which is based on a normal time temperature distribution is proposed.
Key words:Building energy efficiency, TRIZ matrix, Intelligent agents, Coefficient of utilization
CLIMATE PROTECTION POTENTIAL OF WASTE MANAGEMENT IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
Authors: Clausen Adele , Pretz Thomas
Published: March 2019

In order to comply with the EU landfill directive (Bosnia and Herzegovina is a potential candidate for a membership in the European Union) and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions as well as to save important resources, mechanical biological treatment of municipal solid waste is a promising waste treatment option compared to open dumping and in particular large size landfilling. Mechanical biological waste treatment shows high potential to reduce direct GHG emissions through avoiding methane generation in landfills. Besides, indirect GHG can be reduced by replacing primary products or fossil energy by recycling products and renewable energy, which are less greenhouse gas emission intensive.
Key words: municipal solid waste management, greenhouse gas emissions, mechanical-biological treatment, landfill gas, material recovery.
Reasons for Delay in Repayment of Agricultural Loan by Farmers in Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Jatto N. A. , Obalola T. O. , Shettima B. A. , Okebiorun E. O.
Published: March 2019

This study highlights the factors causing loan default among farmers in Kwara state. A total of 3100 agricultural loan defaulters (from the members of Kwara State Apex farmers’ cooperatives union) were obtained for this study. The study frame was stratified into four, based on the existing ADP zones. A proportionate sampling technique was used in selecting the 400 agricultural loan defaulters. Data collected with questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The result showed that high-interest rate was the reason why farmers default agricultural loan. The view of the agricultural loan desk officers was that miss utilization of loan causes default among farmers. It was concluded that interest rate, family commitment and delay in disbursement were the cause of default from the view of the farmers while miss utilization, political approach and change in business were the what causes default from the points of agricultural loan desk officers. To reduce the incidence of loan diversion, efforts should be made to monitor borrowers regularly so as to ensure they use the loan they received for the agreed and intended use. Getting regular account statement from borrowers and as well as regular visiting the borrowers' enterprise can also enhance this.
Evaluation of Integrated Child Development Services Program in Kashmir, India
Authors: Yasin Tawheeda , Azim Hummara
Published: March 2019

Aims: Evaluation of Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) program in the vale of Kashmir in terms of status of Anganwadi workers, facilities at Anganwadi centers, delivery of services to beneficiaries including children, pregnant women, lactating women and adolescent girls.

Study Design: Study based on facility at Anganwadi centers.

Place and Duration of Study: The present study was conducted by visiting Anganwadi centers in Kashmir Division of Jammu and Kashmir during the year 2017-2018.

Methodology: The valley of Kashmir was divided into three zones; North Kashmir comprising of three districts Baramulla, Bandipora, Kupwara, Central Kashmir comprising of three districts Srinagar, Ganderbal, Budgam and South Kashmir comprising of four districts Anantnag, Kulgam, Pulwama, Shopian. Lottery method was used to select two districts for each zone. Through multistage sampling a total of 48 anganwadi centers were evaluated.

Results: The coverage of supplementary nutrition was almost complete for all the beneficiaries. All the other services were not delivered properly. 31.51% children reported to receive pre-school education, 13.54% reported of having had health check-ups and 1.82% reported of being immunized at anganwadi centre (AWC). 94.79% of the pregnant and lactating women are covered under supplementary nutrition. Immunization and health check-ups were not available for pregnant and lactating women, however, 53.3% received iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets and 4.17% were provided with referral services. 71.53% of adolescent girls received IFA tablets. Health check-ups and basic skills programmes were not conducted for adolescent girls, however, 5.56% were provided with referral services.

Conclusion: The performance of ICDS in Kashmir in terms of coverage is very low and almost all the services except supplementary nutrition are not delivered properly.  There are many reasons for the underperformance of the scheme including socio-economic and other aspects of the grassroot workers including anganwadi workers (AWWs) and anganwadi helpers (AWHs), inadequacy of equipment for proper implementation, undesirable condition of AWCs, lack of professionalism in implementing staff, lack of co-ordination between AWCs and other associated personals like Lady Health Visitor (LHV)/Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM).  In Kashmir the political environment makes the implementation of ICDS scheme even more complicated and difficult. A realignment is the need of hour and the state government must identify the specific problems faced by the scheme and convey them to all the stake holders so that a better and modified version of the scheme is implemented.
In-vitro Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Activities of Quisqualis indica Linn. Leaves Extract
Authors: Pal Pallavi , Singh Ajeet
Published: March 2019

Aim: In this study antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect of ethanolic extract of Quisqualis indica leaves was evaluated.

Study Design: In-vitro analysis of Quisqualis indica leaf extract.

Place and Duration of Study: Molecular Biology laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, G.B Pant Engineering College, Pauri, between July 2015 and July 2016.

Methods: Non-enzymatic and enzymatic assays such as DPPH (1, 1diphenyl-2-picryl hydrazyl), FRAP assay, superoxide dismutase SOD (EC 1.15.1.1), catalase (EC 1.11.1.6), for radical scavenging activity of ethanolic extracts of Quisqualis indica Linn. plant leaves had done. For estimation of anti-inflammatory action, two methods were employed: protein denaturation method and membrane stabilization method.

Results: Ethanolic extract of leaves on higher concentration had better antioxidant potential when compared with reference standard ascorbic acid. They exhibited strong antioxidant radical scavenging activity values for ethanolic extract of leaves. Results of anti-inflammatory method suggested better potential values for ethanolic extract and compared with standard drug diclofenac sodium respectively. A significant relationship between antioxidant, anti-inflammatory capacity and total phenolic content was examined, indicating that phenolic compounds are the major contributors for the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of this plant.

Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of Q. indica exhibited strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity and this can be used for designing novel drug inhibitors with better efficacy.
Histological Assessment on Cadmium Induced Liver Damage Following Oral Administration of Moringa oleifera Oil and Anarcardium occidentale Nuts Oil in Wistar Rats
Authors: Omotoso O. D. , Adelakun S. A. , Oyewo O. O. , Adediran B. T.
Published: March 2019

Background: Cadmium is a human carcinogen element and one of the most toxic pollutants in the environment. Present study aims at histomorphological study of some of the effects of Moringa oleifera oil and cashew (Anarcardium occidentale) nuts oil on Cadmium-induced liver damage in wistar rats.

Methods: Thirty-five Wistar rats (80-180 g) were randomly selected and divided into seven groups of five rats each after acclimatization for two weeks. Group A which served as control received phosphate buffer, Group B received Cadmium only (3.5 mg/kg body weight). Group C received Vitamin C and Vitamin E; Group D received Vitamin C, Vitamin E and Cadmium. Group E received Cadmium and Moringa oleifera oil, Group F received Cadmium and Cashew nut oil and Group G received Cadmium (3.5 mg/kg body weight) and Moringa oleifera oil and Cashew (Anarcardium occidentale) nut oil.

Results: Histological examination revealed normal histo-architecture of the liver, the central vein and the hepatocytes were seen clearly and there was orderly arrangement of the hepatocytes in Group A (control group). In group B, there was enlarged portal vein and there was distorted arrangement of the hepatocytes. In group C, the hepatocytes and the central vein were seen. In group D, the central vein and hepatocytes were seen though not orderly arranged. In groups E, F and G, there was restoration of the hepatocytes and the central vein was seen.

Conclusion: This therefore suggests that Moringa oleifera oil and Cashew (Anarcardium occidentale) nut oil have ameliorative effects which led to the restoration of the damaged and distorted hepatocytes.
Nitrogen Contribution by Groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L) Genotypes in the Northern Guinea Savanna of Nigeria
Authors: Unimke Agah Boniface , Yusuf Tagwai Magaji , Idongesit Mbre Jeremiah
Published: March 2019

Most grain legumes irrespective of their ability to fix substantial amount of nitrogen to the soil, could impact negatively on the soil nitrogen balance, particularly if the fix nitrogen is exported from the field with harvested biomass (Shoot, root, grain/kernel). Thus, for agronomic purposes, it is important to quantify the potential amount of nitrogen from this source that will become available to the soil for subsequent crop uptake and/or ecosystem balance. The field trial was undertaken at the teaching and research field of the Institute for Agricultural Research (IAR) Samaru Zaria in the wet planting season of 2011 and 2012. The treatments consist of ten groundnut genotypes (SAMNUT 24, SAMNUT 22, ARRORSICGX-SM 00017/5/P15/P2, SAMNUT 10, ICIAR 7B, ARRORSICGX 000201/5/P4P10, SAMNUT 21, 6AT, SAMNUT 23 and SAMNUT 14), and two rates (0 and 30 kg N ha-1) of nitrogen (urea) fertilizer arrange in a split plot design. Nitrogen balance was estimated as the difference in nitrogen fix by the plant and nitrogen content of kernels/haulms. Results of the analysis of variance indicate that there was significant variation among the selected groundnut genotypes in their net contribution of nitrogen in both 2011 and 2012 at instances where both the groundnut kernel and haulms were exported from the field. Nitrogen contributions by the genotypes were not consistence in both years. In 2011, while SAMNUT 14 left the highest value of 9.79 kg N ha-1, ICIAR 7B returned the highest value in 2012. ICGX-SM 00017/5/P15/P2 (-16.55 kg N ha-1) and SAMNUT 22 (-56.07 kg N ha-1) contributed the least amount of nitrogen in 2011 and 2012 respectively when the kernel were removed from the field. On the other hand, 6AT was relatively stable in both years, and contributed close to 1 kg N ha-1. Even though negative nitrogen balances were reported at instances where the kernels were exported from the field, a more severe N depleting effect was observed when both haulms and kernels were removed from the field. Although, negative N balance was predominant at both rates (0 and 30 kg N ha-1) of N application, but the average nitrogen contribution was significantly higher (-1.10 kg N ha-1) with the application of starter nitrogen than the control (-13.23 kg N ha-1). In view of these findings, groundnut genotypes 6 AT, SAMNUT 14 and ICIAR 7B could be elite genotypes if building a resilience sustainable ecosystem is a priority due to their high biological nitrogen fixing abilities and nitrogen contributing potential.
CSF placental growth factor – a novel candidate biomarker of frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Hansson Oskar , Santillo Alexander F. , Meeter Lieke H. , Nilsson Karin , Landqvist Waldö Maria , Nilsson Christer , Blennow Kaj , van Swieten John C. , Janelidze Shorena
Published: March 2019

Objective

Diagnosis of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is complicated by the overlap of clinical symptoms with other dementia disorders. Development of robust fluid biomarkers is critical to improve the diagnostic work‐up of FTD.

Methods

CSF concentrations of placental growth factor (PlGF) were measured in the discovery cohort including patients with FTD (n = 27), Alzheimer disease (AD) dementia (n = 75), DLB or PDD (n = 47), subcortical vascular dementia (VaD, n = 33), mild cognitive impairment that later converted to AD (MCI‐AD, n = 34), stable MCI (sMCI, n = 62), and 50 cognitively healthy controls from the Swedish BioFINDER study. For validation, CSF PlGF was measured in additional independent cohort of FTD patients (n = 22) and controls (n = 18) from the Netherlands.

Results

In the discovery cohort, MCI, MCI‐AD, AD dementia, DLB‐PDD, VaD, and FTD patients all showed increased CSF levels of PlGF compared with controls (sMCI P = 0.019; MCI‐AD P = 0.005; AD dementia, DLB‐PDD, VaD, and FTD all P < 0.001). PlGF levels were 1.8–2.1‐fold higher in FTD than in AD, DLB‐PDD and VaD (all P < 0.001). PlGF distinguished with high accuracy FTD from controls and sMCI performing better than tau/Aβ42 (AUC 0.954–0.996 versus 0.564–0.754, P < 0.001). A combination of PlGF, tau, and Aβ42 (tau/Aβ42/PlGF) was more accurate than tau/Aβ42 when differentiating FTD from a group of other dementias (AUC 0.972 vs. 0.932, P < 0.01). Increased CSF levels of PlGF in FTD compared with controls were corroborated in the validation cohort.

Interpretation

CSF PlGF is increased in FTD compared with other dementia disorders, MCI, and healthy controls and might be useful as a diagnostic biomarker of FTD.
Rheumatic Care in Under‐Resourced Areas Using the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes Model
Authors: Bankhurst Arthur , Romero‐Olivas Cynthia , Hernandez Larson Jessica , Bradford Andrea , Fields Roderick , Kalishman Summers , Marquez Marisa , Gonzales‐Van Horn Sarah , Jones Jessica , Burke Tom , Snead Jennifer , Arora Sanjeev
Published: March 2019

Objective

To demonstrate the effectiveness of the Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (Project ECHO) in educating primary care clinicians (PCCs) to provide best practice rheumatic care to patients in under‐resourced communities in New Mexico.

Methods

Attendee data for weekly teleECHO sessions, lectures, grand rounds, and mini‐residency trainings were evaluated from June 2006 to June 2014. Participant feedback was evaluated from January 2009 to December 2014, when the program was approved for continuing medical education (CME) credits. Retrospective review of diagnoses associated with case presentations was conducted from June 2006 to June 2014 to evaluate the types of cases presented. A focus group was conducted with a convenience sample of 8 New Mexico PCCs who participated in ECHO Rheumatology (ECHO Rheum) for 1 year or longer.

Results

Over the course of 9 years, ECHO Rheum educated 2,230 clinicians, consisting primarily of physicians (53%) and nurse practitioners (22%). A total of 1,958 CME credits were awarded to those who participated. There were 1,173 cases presented; 85% of the cases reflected the 3 most common diagnoses: rheumatoid arthritis (n = 715), fibromyalgia (n = 241), and systemic lupus erythematosus (n = 54). In addition, ECHO Rheum conducted 15 two‐day mini‐residencies involving 30 PCCs; 21 of these clinicians subsequently completed the American College of Rheumatology online certification.

Conclusion

Results from this study demonstrate that participation in ECHO Rheum provides clinicians in under‐resourced areas access to best‐practice knowledge and training in rheumatology.
Therapeutic Alliance Between Physical Therapists and Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis Consulting Via Telephone: A Longitudinal Study
Authors: Lawford Belinda J. , Bennell Kim L. , Campbell Penny K. , Kasza Jessica , Hinman Rana S.
Published: March 2019

Objective

To explore therapeutic alliance between physical therapists and patients with knee osteoarthritis during telephone consultations. Specifically, to describe and compare physical therapist and patient ratings, to determine whether alliance changes over time, and to evaluate whether individual characteristics are associated with alliance.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of 84 patients in the intervention arm of a randomized controlled trial who completed 5–10 consultations with 1 of 8 physical therapists via telephone over 26 weeks, involving education, advice, and prescription of a strengthening and physical activity program. Therapeutic alliance was measured after the second (week 4) and final consultations (week 26), using the Working Alliance Inventory–Short Form.

Results

Patient and physical therapist ratings of the alliance were high. At week 4, patients rated the overall alliance, and all 3 subscales, higher than therapists. At 26 weeks, patients rated the Task subscale higher than therapists. Patient ratings for the Goal subscale decreased over time, while physical therapist ratings for total alliance and the Bond subscale increased. For patients, the variables of living with others, consulting with a therapist with no previous experience delivering care remotely, having more telephone consultations, and having a higher self‐efficacy were associated with greater alliance ratings. Therapists were more likely to perceive a stronger alliance if they had less clinical experience and when treating patients who were younger and had higher self‐efficacy.

Conclusion

Physical therapist perceptions of the therapeutic alliance tended to be lower than those of patients early in treatment, but differences were small and of unclear clinical significance. Some subgroups of patients rated the alliance more strongly than others.