bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Iniquity of Money-Metric Poverty in India
Authors: Jayaraj D , Subramanian S
Published: June 2017

This paper is concerned to make three points about money-metric poverty in India: first, that the standard poverty-line approach to measuring poverty considerably underestimates poverty, and that the particular protocols by which India’s official poverty lines are determined are arbitrary and misleading; second, that a view of poverty in which the achievement of a satisfactory level of income is seen as a valuable end in itself, and which is captured in something like Kaushik Basu’s ‘quintile income statistic’, suggests a high order of income-poverty in the country which belies the relatively encouraging trends exhibited by headcount ratios based on official poverty lines; and third, that the continued co-existence of large amounts of poverty with large amounts of inequality needs to be redeemed by some deliberate redistributive strategy aimed at providing something like a guaranteed basic minimum income to every citizen of the country—for reasons, at least, of self-interest, if not justice.
Is the location of the signal intensity weighted centroid a reliable measurement of fluid displacement within the disc?
Authors: Abdollah Vahid , Parent Eric C. , Battié Michele C.
Published: June 2017

Degenerated discs have shorter T2-relaxation time and lower MR signal. The location of the signal-intensity-weighted-centroid reflects the water distribution within a region-of-interest (ROI). This study compared the reliability of the location of the signal-intensity-weighted-centroid to mean signal intensity and area measurements. L4-L5 and L5-S1 discs were measured on 43 mid-sagittal T2-weighted 3T MRI images in adults with back pain. One rater analysed images twice and another once, blinded to measurements. Discs were semi-automatically segmented into a whole disc, nucleus, anterior and posterior annulus. The coordinates of the signal-intensity-weighted-centroid for all regions demonstrated excellent intraclass-correlation-coefficients for intra- (0.99–1.00) and inter-rater reliability (0.97–1.00). The standard error of measurement for the Y-coordinates of the signal-intensity-weighted-centroid for all ROIs were 0 at both levels and 0 to 2.7 mm for X-coordinates. The mean signal intensity and area for the whole disc and nucleus presented excellent intra-rater reliability with intraclass-correlation-coefficients from 0.93 to 1.00, and 0.92 to 1.00 for inter-rater reliability. The mean signal intensity and area had lower reliability for annulus ROIs, with intra-rater intraclass-correlation-coefficient from 0.5 to 0.76 and inter-rater from 0.33 to 0.58. The location of the signal-intensity-weighted-centroid is a reliable biomarker for investigating the effects of disc interventions.
Prediction of human iron bioavailability using rapid c-ELISAs for human plasma hepcidin
Authors: Stoffel Nicole U. , Zeder Christophe , Fort Eloïse , Swinkels Dorine W. , Zimmermann Michael B. , Moretti Diego
Published: June 2017

Background:

Hepcidin is the central systemic regulator of iron metabolism, but its quantification in biological fluids is challenging. Rapid, accurate and user-friendly methods are needed. Our aim was to assess the ability of hepcidin as measured by three different c-ELISA assays to predict iron bioavailability in humans.

Methods:

The three assays used were commercially available DRG and Peninsula assays and the c-ELISA method performed at Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, The Netherlands (Hepcidinanalysis.com), validated by comparative measurements with time-of-flight mass spectrometry. We analyzed plasma samples (n=37) selected to represent a broad range of hepcidin concentrations from a subgroup of healthy, iron-depleted women in a study assessing fractional absorption from iron supplements.

Results:

In single regressions, all three c-ELISA assays were predictors of fractional iron absorption: R2=0.363 (DRG), R2=0.281 (Peninsula) and R2=0.327 (Hepcidinanalysis.com). In multiple regressions, models including hepcidin measured with either DRG-, Peninsula or Hepcidinanalysis.com explained 55.7%, 44.5% and 52.5% of variance in fractional absorption, and hepcidin was a strong predictor of fractional absorption irrespective of the hepcidin assays used. However, we found significant differences in absolute values for hepcidin between different methods. Both the DRG assay’s (y=0.61x+0.87; R2=0.873) and the Peninsula assay’s measurements (y=1.88x+0.62; R2=0.770) were correlated with Hepcidinanalysis.com.

Conclusions:

The biological variability in plasma hepcidin, (inter-sample CV) was 5–10-fold higher for both the Peninsula and DRG assay than the analytical variably (inter-run within-sample CV) suggesting substantial discriminatory power to distinguish biological hepcidin variation. Between methods, prediction of iron bioavailability in generally healthy iron depleted subjects appears comparable.
Some Estimates for Virtual Element Methods
Authors: Brenner Susanne C. , Guan Qingguang , Sung Li-Yeng
Published: June 2017

We present novel techniques for obtaining the basic estimates of virtual element methods in terms of the shape regularity of polygonal/polyhedral meshes. We also derive new error estimates for the Poisson problem in two and three dimensions.
Star-group identities on units of group algebras: The non-torsion case
Authors: Giambruno Antonio , Polcino Milies Cesar , Sehgal Sudarshan K.
Published: June 2017

Let G be a group, F a field and FG the corresponding group algebra.
We consider an involution on FG which is the linear extension of an involution of G, e.g.,

g
*

=

g

-
1

{g^{*}=g^{-1}}

for

g
∈
G

{g\in G}

.
This paper is focused on the characterization of a non-torsion group G provided the group of units

U
⁢

(

F
⁢
G

)

{U(FG)}

satisfies a

*

{*}

-group identity.
The torsion case was studied in [7], and when

*

{*}

is the
classical involution, this problem was solved in the case of symmetric units in [21].
Interplay between PAPP-A, inflammation and adiposity in patients with angiographically proven acute coronary syndrome (ACS)
Authors: Mahato Khageshwar , Lodh Moushumi , Parida Ashok , Ahirwar Ashok Kr , Datta Rashmi Rasi , Goswami Binita
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Studies conducted in the recent past have demonstrated the role of inflammation, obesity and dysfunctional insulin signaling as contributing factors in the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS). However, pharmacological interventions targeting a single pathway have not proven useful in the long run. This indicates that a synergism occurs between the various risk factors and hence calls for a combinatorial approach. This study was planned to study the interplay, if any, between pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), inflammation and adiposity in patients with ACS.

Materials and methods

The study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Delhi. The study population consisted of 128 subjects, divided into two groups. The control group consisted of 64 healthy subjects without ACS. Cases consisted of 64 subjects with angiographically proven ACS cases. PAPP-A and high sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) were estimated by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA) kits.

Results

The mean level of PAPP-A and hs-CRP were significantly higher in cases as compared to the controls. A positive correlation of PAPP-A was observed with hs-CRP, insulin, ApoB and Lp(a). The relative risk for ACS was 14.2 with a p value of <0.001 when all the three parameters – hs-CRP, PAPP-A and body mass index (BMI) were considered together. This was significantly higher when each risk factor was assessed standalone.

Conclusions

Our study results suggest a possible interplay between chronic inflammation, obesity and plaque instability among patients with ACS. This interaction can accelerate the process of plaque rupture in patients with increased BMI as compare to those patients with low/normal BMI.
Long-term dutasteride therapy in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia alters glucose and lipid profiles and increases severity of erectile dysfunction
Authors: Traish Abdulmaged , Haider Karim Sultan , Doros Gheorghe , Haider Ahmad
Published: June 2017

Background

Dutasteride has been successfully used in treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) secondary to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). However, dutasteride inhibits 5α-reductase type 1 and type 2 enzymes and may compromises glucocorticoids and androgen metabolism and alters metabolic function resulting in undesirable metabolic and sexual adverse side effects.

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term adverse effects of dutasteride therapy in men with BPH on: i) blood glucose, ii) glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), iii) low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C); high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) and total cholesterol (TC), iv) testosterone (T), v) liver alanine and aspartate aminotransferases (ALT and AST) and vi) erectile dysfunction (ED).

Methods

A retrospective registry study, with a cohort of 230 men aged between 47 and 68 years (mean 57.78 ± 4.81) were treated with dutasteride (0.5 mg/day) for LUTS, secondary to BPH. A second cohort of 230 men aged between 52 and 72 years (mean 62.62 ± 4.65) were treated with tamsulosin (0.4 mg). All men were followed up for 36–42 months. At intervals of 3–6 months, and at each visit, plasma glucose, HbA1c, TC, LDL-cholesterol, T levels and liver alanine amino transferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were determined. Further patient assessment was made by the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-EF) questionnaire, the Aging Male Symptom (AMS) and International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS).

Results

Long-term treatment with dutasteride therapy is associated with significant improvements in LUTS, as assessed by reduction in prostate volume, IPSS and prostate specific antigen (PSA). Long-term dutasteride therapy, however, resulted in increased blood glucose, HbA1c, TC and LDL levels, ALT and AST activities, AMS Score and reduced T levels and worsened ED as assessed by the IIEF-EF scores. No worsening of ED, glucose, HbA1c, ALT, AST, AMS were observed in men treated with tamsulosin. Most importantly, long-term dutasteride therapy resulted in reduction in total T levels, contributing to a state of hypogonadism.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that long-term dutasteride therapy produces worsening of ED, reduced T levels and increased glucose, HbA1cand alters lipid profiles, suggesting induced imbalance in metabolic function. We strongly recommend that physicians discuss with their patients these potential serious adverse effects of long-term dutasteride therapy prior to instituting this form of treatment.
„Gedancken über der Zeit“
Authors: Hühn Helmut
Published: June 2017

What eternity is can be thought of and is represented in Paul Fleming’s poem
West German Borderland Aid and European State Aid Control
Authors: Eckert Astrid M.
Published: June 2017

This article focuses on one of the most persistent regional aid programmes in West German history, the so-called “zonal borderland aid” (Zonenrandförderung). The programme supported regions along the 1,393-kilometer long inter-German border that divided West and East Germany during the Cold War. The article seeks to explain the increasingly fraught relationship between borderland aid and European state aid control in the 1970s and 1980s. The intervention of the Directorate for Competition (DG IV) against borderland aid begs an explanation since the Treaty of Rome (1957) had granted a specific exemption for aid to these regions from the competition policies of the Common Market. The article makes the general case that regional state aid is a key component of structural policy alongside sectoral aid. It argues that interest politics prevented a sober needs assessment of the West German border regions, turning Zonenrandförderung into funding by habit, not by need. This left the European Commission as the only institution that could mount a credible challenge to an ossified sense of entitlement in the affected regions.
A Capabilities-Based Framework for Disaster Response Exercise Design and Evaluation: Findings from Oil Spill Response Exercises
Authors: Greenberg Brandon , Voevodsky Paule , Gralla Erica
Published: June 2017

The responder community must be ready to respond quickly and effectively in the event of a disaster. In order to maintain readiness, many disaster response communities exercise their response capabilities on a regular basis. The critical challenge is to design, conduct, and evaluate exercises in a manner that effectively tests responders’ readiness and generates lessons that can improve readiness. This paper describes a framework to enable assessment of response readiness through evaluation of critical capabilities in exercises. It was developed for oil spill response based on the observation and analysis of four response exercises. The framework (1) identifies critical capabilities that lead to readiness for spill response, and maps them to (2) exercise design components that test each capability and (3) evaluation measures to evaluate each capability within an exercise. The framework enables continuous improvement by linking the evaluation of exercises to the critical capabilities required of an oil spill response organization; by evaluating the performance of specific capabilities, areas for improvement are clearly identified and can be re-tested in a future exercise. While the findings are necessarily specific to oil spill response, the principles apply to any disaster response context.
Secondary School Science Teachers’ Views about Their Reflective Practices
Authors: Aldahmash Abdulwali H. , Alshmrani Saeed M. , Almufti Abdo N.
Published: June 2017

The importance of reflection in teaching and learning lies in encouraging one to view problems from different perspectives. Reflective practice can be useful in designing teacher education and sustainable professional development. Conscious reflection is an important element for helping teachers and learners in problem-solving and decision-making processes and fostering their critical-thinking abilities. The aim of the present research was to investigate teachers’ views about the nature of their experiences with reflective practices and reflective teaching. A survey consisted of three dimensions used to collect the data. It was distributed to 458 (237 male and 221 female) science teachers working at high schools in Saudi Arabia. The results have indicated that teacher practices of almost all reflective activities included in the three dimensions “the extent of practicing reflection”, “areas of practicing reflection”, and “ways of practicing reflection” are at “high” level from their point of view. The results have also shown that there are no significant differences in the teachers’ views about their practices of reflective activities related to their gender, or experiences in the teaching profession.
Bullying and Victimisation Dynamics in High School: An Exploratory Case Study
Authors: George Lucy M. , Strom B. Ivan
Published: June 2017

Bullying is a worldwide concern and erroneous perceptions of the phenomenon could underscore unsustainable interventions. The purpose of this qualitative exploratory case study was to examine, in-depth, how some high school teachers from two schools in New Jersey perceived student bullying. The primary research question was: What perceptions do teachers have about student bullying? The main data were from face-to-face interviews with 14 teachers who answered semi-structured, open-ended questions. Secondary data originated from physical artefacts. The data analysis consisted of four phases. Inductive analysis allowed for the composition of individual cases. Cross-case analysis allowed data classification into three main areas of inquiry aligned with the three secondary research questions (a) bullying and victimisation dynamics as perceived by teachers, (b) adequacy of current interventions, and (c) adequacy of teachers’ professional development for bullying mitigation. The data unveiled inconsistencies between causes of bullying and interventions. It culminated in recommendations for leadership and suggestions for future research.
Carnitine and adiponectin levels in breast cancer after radiotherapy
Authors: Ozmen Hilal Kiziltunc , Erdemci Burak , Askin Seda , Sezen Orhan
Published: June 2017

In this study, serum carnitine (CRNT) and adiponectin (APN) levels and the correlation of these parameters in patients with breast cancer before and after treatment with radiotherapy (RT) were determined.

Materials and methods

Serum adiponectin and carnitine levels were assessed in 58 patients with breast carcinoma and 30 control subjects. Serum carnitine and APN levels were determined using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

While serum carnitine level was significantly lower in the patients with breast cancer after RT compared with the control group and before treatment (p=0.002 and p=0.019, respectively), serum APN level was significantly higher than in the control group and before treatment ( p=0.003 and p=0.027, respectively). Carnitine level showed a negative correlation with APN level in the patients after RT (r= -0.626, p= 0.001). There was no correlation between carnitine and APN levels in subjects of control group and before treatment. Also, neither carnitine nor APN levels demonstrated correlation other parameters.

Conclusions

Results suggest that increased serum adiponectin and decreased carnitine levels in breast cancer after RT than control group. Carnitine level showed a negative correlation with APN level in the patient with breast cancer after RT. While carnitine, HDL-C and total cholesterol levels are decreased, trygliceride and LDL-C levels are increased in patients than control group. In addition, serum APN concentration was inversely correlated with serum carnitine levels. Furthermore, increased serum APN level in breast cancer after RT might be associated with hypocarnitinemia.
Numerical simulation on ferrofluid flow in fractured porous media based on discrete-fracture model
Authors: Huang Tao , Yao Jun , Huang Zhaoqin , Yin Xiaolong , Xie Haojun , Zhang Jianguang
Published: June 2017

Water flooding is an efficient approach to maintain reservoir pressure and has been widely used to enhance oil recovery. However, preferential water pathways such as fractures can significantly decrease the sweep efficiency. Therefore, the utilization ratio of injected water is seriously affected. How to develop new flooding technology to further improve the oil recovery in this situation is a pressing problem. For the past few years, controllable ferrofluid has caused the extensive concern in oil industry as a new functional material. In the presence of a gradient in the magnetic field strength, a magnetic body force is produced on the ferrofluid so that the attractive magnetic forces allow the ferrofluid to be manipulated to flow in any desired direction through the control of the external magnetic field. In view of these properties, the potential application of using the ferrofluid as a new kind of displacing fluid for flooding in fractured porous media is been studied in this paper for the first time. Considering the physical process of the mobilization of ferrofluid through porous media by arrangement of strong external magnetic fields, the magnetic body force was introduced into the Darcy equation and deals with fractures based on the discrete-fracture model. The fully implicit finite volume method is used to solve mathematical model and the validity and accuracy of numerical simulation, which is demonstrated through an experiment with ferrofluid flowing in a single fractured oil-saturated sand in a 2-D horizontal cell.

At last, the water flooding and ferrofluid flooding in a complex fractured porous media have been studied. The results showed that the ferrofluid can be manipulated to flow in desired direction through control of the external magnetic field, so that using ferrofluid for flooding can raise the scope of the whole displacement. As a consequence, the oil recovery has been greatly improved in comparison to water flooding. Thus, the ferrofluid flooding is a large potential method for enhanced oil recovery in the future.
Dissecting the enigma of scleroderma: possible involvement of the kynurenine pathway
Authors: Noakes Rowland
Published: June 2017

The kynurenine pathway (KP) is the metabolic pathway via which L-tryptophan is converted to nicotinamide. It serves important immune-regulatory roles. This article will review the evidence for involvement of the KP in scleroderma and present a possible model of kynurenine regulation of the cytokine cascade.
Long term results of radiotherapy in vulvar cancer patients in Slovenia between 1997–2004
Authors: Zobec Logar Helena Barbara
Published: June 2017

Background

The aim of this retrospective single institution study was to analyse long term results of vulvar cancer treatment with conventional 2D radiotherapy in Slovenia between years 1997–2004.

Patients and methods

Fifty-six patients, median age 74.4 years +/- 9.7 years, mainly stage T2 or T3, were included in the study. All patients were treated with radiotherapy, which was combined with surgery (group A), used as the primary treatment (group B) or at the time of relapse (group C). Chemotherapy was added in some patients. Histology, grade, lymph node status, details of surgery, radiation dose to the primary tumour, inguinofemoral and pelvic area as well as local control (LC) and survival were evaluated.

Results

Overall survival (OS), disease specific survival (DSS) and LC rates at 10-years for all patients were as follows: 22.7%, 34.5% and 41.1%, respectively. The best 10-years results of the treatment were achieved in the primary operated patients treated with adjuvant radiotherapy +/-chemotherapy (OS 31.9%, DSS 40.6% and LC 47.6%). Positive lymph nodes had a strong influence on LC. In case of positive nodes LC decreased by 60% (p = 0.03) and survival decreased by 50% (p = 0.2). There was a trend to a better LC with higher doses ≥ 54.0 Gy (p = 0.05).

Conclusions

The best treatment option for patients with advanced vulvar cancer is combined treatment with surgery and radiotherapy +/- chemotherapy, if feasible. Radiotherapy with the dose of ≥ 54.0 Gy should be considered to achieve better LC if positive adverse factors are present.
Language Learners or New Speakers: The Transfer of the Breton Diwan Immersion Education Model to the Lower Sorbian Witaj Project
Authors: Dołowy-Rybińska Nicole
Published: June 2017

The paper discusses several aspects of immersion and bilingual education systems in Brittany, France and in Lower Lusatia, Germany. Their role in the process of becoming a new speaker of a minority language is exemplified by the Diwan immersion education model in Brittany and the Witaj project in Lower Lusatia concerning the Sorbian people. Taking into consideration the different sociolinguistic situation of both groups, the level and reasons for language shift, the existing language policy in France and in Germany, both educational models are presented. I analyze some factors that influence the possible success or failure of these two models, such as: the linguistic environments, teaching systems, the roles of teachers, the minority language attitudes of pupils, their language practices, the availability of extracurricular activities in the minority language, and the existence of different types of communities of practice. All these factors influence pupils’ language choices and practices. Not all language learners will use a minority language in the future, since it depends on the conscious decision of each person. The distinction between language learners and minority language new speakers can thus be justified.
Standardization of blood tube closure colors may be important in reducing tube selection errors of non-laboratory personnel
Authors: Aydin Ozlem
Published: June 2017

Errors in laboratory medicine contribute significantly to the overall risk of errors in healthcare. The majority of these laboratory errors occur in the pre-analytical phase. Control of pre-analytical variables is difficult because many steps are outside the control of the laboratory management. Pre-analytical errors may be reduced by active monitoring and control of all possible errors that are caused by non-laboratory personnel drawing blood, continuous training, use of quality indicators and implementation of standard procedures. Non-laboratory personnel make blood collection tube selection mostly according to the closure color, so standardization of color coding for blood tube closures could help reduce sample collection errors. It is important that European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine calls all stakeholders in the healthcare sector to harmonize color coding for blood collection tube closures. Non-laboratory personnel drawing blood can be taught the additives in blood tubes and their functions to reduce errors during the sample collection stage. In addition, standardization of the closure colors of blood tubes should be supported, and non-laboratory personnel drawing blood should be informed when there is a change in the tube closure colors used by the hospital until this standardization is achieved.
The Priestly Grundschrift: Source or Redaction? The Case of Exodus 12:12–13
Authors: Tucker Paavo N.
Published: June 2017

Aktuelle Studien zur priesterschriftlichen Erzählung im Pentateuch zeigen, dass die Forschung hinsichtlich des Charakters der priesterschriftlichen Erzählung als Quelle oder Redaktion einen Stillstand erreicht hat. Der Artikel untersucht, wie Ex 12,12–13 zum Verständnis des Charakters der priesterschriftlichen Erzählung beiträgt. Im Anschluss an die Vorgehensweise David Carrs kann gezeigt werden, dass der priesterschriftliche Passah-Bericht in Ex 12,12–13 die Traditionen der nicht-priesterschriftlichen Passahgeschichte aus Ex 12,21–23 mit der Tötung der Erstgeburt aus Ex 12,29–33 verschmilzt und diese im Licht der priesterschriftlichen Theologie umformuliert und sie in die priesterschriftliche Erzählung integriert. Diese Kompositionsmethode legt nahe, dass die Vorlage mit den Schlüsselverben der rituellen Anweisungen aus Ex 12,21–23 korrespondiert, statt zu postulieren, dass der priesterschriftliche Bericht der Verse 1–13 eine frühere Vorlage in den Versen 3b.6b.7a.8a.11bβ integriert hat. Der priesterschriftliche Bericht verwendet die Anweisungen aus den Versen 21–23 für die Formulierung von Anweisungen für seine eigene Wiedergabe des Passah in den Versen 1–11. Die Verschmelzung von Ex 12,21–23 und 29–33 in Ex 12,12–13, wie auch die Verwendung der Anweisungen aus den Versen 21–23 in den Ritualen der Verse 1–11 legen nahe, dass die priesterschriftliche Erzählung in Ex 12,1–13 ein redaktioneller Zusatz zu den vorpriesterschriftlichen Traditionen ist.
Structural Design of ASTM C361 Low Head Pressure Pipe Joints
Authors: Haeder Corey L.
Published: June 2017

The current published version of ASTM C361, Standard Specification for Reinforced Concrete Low-Head Pressure Pipe, does not provide guidance for structural design of the concrete pipe joint. With the adoption of ASTM C361 by the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, some of the information that was formerly included in their low-head pressure pipe publication (USBR M-1, Standard Specifications for Reinforced Concrete Pressure Pipe) is no longer in print. Discussion of the factors involved in the design of concrete joints for low-head pressure pipe are presented as well as a recommended design procedure and comparison with assumptions included in the USBR M-1 publication.
Calculation Variations Between the Indirect and Direct Design Methods
Authors: Coombs Shawn R. , Kurdziel John
Published: June 2017

Recently produced South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) design standards capped the use of the indirect design method to RCP with diameter less than 36 in. in diameter and limited the use of the direct design method to RCP greater than or equal to 36 in. in diameter. In the original Marston and Spangler research done in the early twentieth century on concrete tiles up to 36 in. in diameter, flexure was the governing failure mode. In the latter half of the twentieth century, the American Concrete Pipe Association (ACPA) initiated a long-range study to determine the failure modes of large diameter RCP. Out of the long-range research came the standard installation direct design (SIDD) method, which adds crack control and radial and diagonal tension to flexure as potential RCP failure modes. Today, because of the simplicity of the indirect design method and the popularity of the three-edge bearing test, many designers and end users are choosing the indirect design method for large diameter pipe designs, not realizing that this design method does not directly address all of the RCP modes of failure. This paper looks at the direct and indirect design methods and outlines potential issues that may arise by designing RCP using the indirect or direct design methods independent of each other.
Research and Concepts Behind the ASTM C1818 Specification for Synthetic Fiber Concrete Pipes
Authors: Wilson Ashley , Abolmaali Ali , Park Yeonho , Attiogbe Emmanuel
Published: June 2017

ASTM C1818, Standard Specification for Synthetic Fiber Reinforced Concrete Culvert, Storm Drain, and Sewer Pipe, has recently been approved as a performance-based ASTM specification based on multiple tests conducted by the authors on synthetic fiber reinforced concrete pipes (SYN-FRCP). The initial testing included the production and three-edge bearing testing of SYN-FRCP pipes, ranging in diameter from 18 to 36 in. (450 to 900 mm) with varying fiber dosages. More than 250 tests were conducted, and fiber dosages for different diameters and wall thicknesses were identified for achieving certain pipe class strengths. Material testing, including cylinders (ASTM C39, Standard Test Method for Compressive Strength of Cylindrical Concrete Specimens) and beams (ASTM C1609, Standard Test Method for Flexural Performance of Fiber-Reinforced Concrete [Using Beam With Third-Point Loading]), was also performed at different fiber dosages. Due to the time-dependent behavior of synthetic fibers, long-term field and laboratory tests were conducted for 10,000 hours’ duration to determine the long-term serviceability factor for the synthetic fiber concrete pipes. This long-term property was introduced as a part of ASTM C1818 and is required to be determined by fiber producers through long-term laboratory tests using their respective fibers in concrete pipes. This paper will present the concept behind the ultimate load, which is the load at the vicinity of the first crack. This paper will also introduce reasons behind the tests and design concepts described in the specification.
NLRP2 and FAF1 deficiency blocks early embryogenesis in the mouse
Authors: Peng Hui , Liu Haijun , Liu Fang , Gao Yuyun , Chen Jing , Huo Jianchao , Han Jinglin , Xiao Tianfang , Zhang Wenchang
Published: June 2017

Nlrp2 is a maternal effect gene specifically expressed by mouse ovaries; deletion of this gene from zygotes is known to result in early embryonic arrest. In the present study, we identified FAF1 protein as a specific binding partner of the NLRP2 protein in both mouse oocytes and preimplantation embryos. In addition to early embryos, both Faf1 mRNA and protein were detected in multiple tissues. NLRP2 and FAF1 proteins were co-localized to both the cytoplasm and nucleus during the development of oocytes and preimplantation embryos. Co-immunoprecipitation assays were used to confirm the specific interaction between NLRP2 and FAF1 proteins. Knockdown of the Nlrp2 or Faf1 gene in zygotes interfered with the formation of a NLRP2–FAF1 complex and led to developmental arrest during early embryogenesis. We therefore conclude that NLRP2 interacts with FAF1 under normal physiological conditions and that this interaction is probably essential for the successful development of cleavage-stage mouse embryos. Our data therefore indicated a potential role for NLRP2 in regulating early embryo development in the mouse.
Acciones y omisiones obligatorias y meritorias. Una perspectiva utilitarista
Authors: Rodríguez López Blanca
Published: June 2017

Una de las críticas más habituales contra el utilitarismo consiste en señalar su incapacidad para reconocer la relevancia moral de la distinción entre acciones y omisiones. Según esta crítica, afirmar la irrelevancia de esta distinción 1) va en contra de las intuiciones del sentido común, 2) elimina la diferencia entre lo obligatorio y lo meritorio y 3) hace inviable la propuesta utilitarista, al proponer una moral demasiado exigente. En este trabajo nos centraremos en el segundo aspecto de esta crítica, y defenderemos que el utilitarismo sí dispone de los medios para distinguir entre lo obligatorio y lo meritorio. Asimismo, defenderemos que  l utilitarismo no necesita renunciar a afirmar la irrelevancia moral de la distinción entre acciones y omisiones para responder adecuadamente a esas críticas. Para ello, nos valdremos fundamentalmente del análisis ofrecido por John S. Mill en el capítulo cinco de su obra Utilitarismo, en el que a nuestro juicio puede encontrase la versión clásica de la respuesta a esta crítica, que de una u otra manera los utilitaristas contemporáneos han asumido y desarrollado.
Bimetallic Pd-Cu-composites of polyaniline in electrocatalytic hydrogenation of phenylacetylene
Authors: Soboleva Elena , Visurkhanova Yakha , Ivanova Nina
Published: June 2017

Bimetallic Pd-Cu-composites of polyaniline prepared by introducing metals (II) chlorides in the process of oxida-tive polymerization of aniline with and without chemical reduction by sodium borohydride are applied to copper cath-ode activation in electrohydrogenation of phenylacetylene in basic aqueous ethanolic solutions of catholyte. Electro-catalytic activity of composites that they exhibited in the process is due to formation of metal particles (and their al-loys) by electrochemical reduction of metal cations in the polymer matrix. The main hydrogenation products are ethyl benzene and 1,4-diphenylbutane, the yields of which influence metal content in the studied composites.
Investigation of Seizure-Susceptibility in a Drosophila melanogaster Model of Human Epilepsy with Optogenetic Stimulation
Authors: Saras Arunesh , Wu Veronica V , Brawer Harlan J , Tanouye Mark A
Published: June 2017

We examined seizure-susceptibility in a Drosophila model of human epilepsy using optogenetic stimulation of ReaChR (red-activatable channelrhodopsin). Photostimulation of the seizure-sensitive mutant parabss1 causes behavioral paralysis that resembles paralysis caused by mechanical stimulation, in many aspects. Electrophysiology shows that photostimulation evokes abnormal seizure-like neuronal firing in parabss1 followed by a quiescent period resembling synaptic failure and apparently responsible for paralysis. The pattern of neuronal activity concludes with seizure-like activity just prior to recovery. We tentatively identify the mushroom body as one apparent locus of optogenetic seizure initiation. The α/β lobes may be primarily responsible for mushroom body seizure induction.
Cardiac Electrophysiology Under MRI Guidance: an Emerging Technology
Authors: Chubb Henry ,   King’s College London, London, UK, Williams Steven E ,   King’s College London, London, UK,   Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, Whitaker John ,   King’s College London, London, UK, Harrison James L ,   King’s College London, London, UK,   Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, Razavi Reza ,   King’s College London, London, UK, O’Neill Mark ,   King’s College London, London, UK,   Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
Published: June 2017

MR-guidance of electrophysiological (EP) procedures offers the potential for enhanced arrhythmia substrate assessment, improved procedural guidance and real-time assessment of ablation lesion formation. Accurate device tracking techniques, using both active and passive methods, have been developed to offer an interface similar to electroanatomic mapping platforms, and MR-compatible EP equipment continues to be developed. Progress to clinical implementation of these technically complex fields has been relatively slow over the last 10 years, but recent developments have led to successful clinical experience. However, further advances, particularly in harnessing the full imaging potential of CMR, are required to realise the mainstream adoption of this powerful guidance modality.
Atrial Flutter, Typical and Atypical: A Review
Authors: Cosío Francisco G ,   Getafe University Hospital, European University of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
Published: June 2017

Clinical electrophysiology has made the traditional classification of rapid atrial rhythms into flutter and tachycardia of little clinical use. Electrophysiological studies have defined multiple mechanisms of tachycardia, both re-entrant and focal, with varying ECG morphologies and rates, authenticated by the results of catheter ablation of the focal triggers or critical isthmuses of re-entry circuits. In patients without a history of heart disease, cardiac surgery or catheter ablation, typical flutter ECG remains predictive of a right atrial re-entry circuit dependent on the inferior vena cava–tricuspid isthmus that can be very effectively treated by ablation, although late incidence of atrial fibrillation remains a problem. Secondary prevention, based on the treatment of associated atrial fibrillation risk factors, is emerging as a therapeutic option. In patients subjected to cardiac surgery or catheter ablation for the treatment of atrial fibrillation or showing atypical ECG patterns, macro-re-entrant and focal tachycardia mechanisms can be very complex and electrophysiological studies are necessary to guide ablation treatment in poorly tolerated cases.
Percutaneous Catheter Ablation of Epicardial Accessory Pathways
Authors: Sternick Eduardo Back ,   Arrhythmia Unit, Biocor Instituto, Nova Lima, Brazil,   Medical Sciences Faculty of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Faustino Mariana ,   Cardiology Department, Hospital Fernando Fonseca, Amadora, Portugal, Correa Frederico Soares ,   Arrhythmia Unit, Biocor Instituto, Nova Lima, Brazil, Pisani Cristiano ,   Arrhythmia Clinical Unit, Heart Institute, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil, Scanavacca Maurício Ibrahim ,   Arrhythmia Clinical Unit, Heart Institute, University of São Paulo Medical School, São Paulo, Brazil
Published: June 2017

Radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation is the treatment of choice in patients with accessory pathways (APs) and Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome. Endocardial catheter ablation has limitations, including the inability to map and ablate intramural or subepicardial APs. Some of these difficulties can be overcome using an epicardial approach performed through the epicardial venous system or by percutaneous catheterisation of the pericardial space. When a suspected left inferior or infero-paraseptal AP is refractory to ablation or no early activation is found at the endocardium, a transvenous approach via the coronary sinus is warranted because such epicardial pathways can be in close proximity to the coronary venous system. Associated congenital abnormalities, such as right atrial appendage, right ventricle diverticulum, coronary sinus diverticulum and absence of coronary sinus ostium, may also hamper a successful outcome. Percutaneous epicardial subxiphoid approach should be considered when endocardial or transvenous mapping and ablation fails. Epicardial mapping may be successful. It can guide and enhance the effectiveness of endocardial ablation. The finding of no epicardial early activation leads to a more persistent new endocardial attempt. When both endocardial and epicardial ablation are unsuccessful, open-chest surgery is the only option to eliminate the AP.
A Gestão da Clínica em questão
Authors: Gomes Romeu , Vernaschi Lima Valéria
Published: June 2017

*** Clinical Governance in question ***The discussion of Clinical Governance requires an approach that takes into account issues related to the power and role of different actors in production and management of the health. In this sense, it is sought a transformation of the practices of attention, management and of the own education so that they can produce an integral attention directed to the health needs of the people and populations. To do this, it is necessary to consider all those involved in this process and support the reading of reality through the criticality and the ability to dialogue different perspectives, including that of caregivers, health professionals and health systems management.
Kovárványcsíkok képződése a Nyírség homoktalajában
Authors: Kalmár János , Kuti László , Kátai János , Figler Renáta , Füleky György
Published: June 2017

A Nyírség egyik jellegzetes talajtípusa a kovárványos barna erdőtalaj. Mind hazánkban, mind külföldön sokan vizsgálták a kovárványképződést és állítottak fel természettudományosan megalapozott elméleteket a képződés mikéntjére vonatkozóan. Leggyakrabban a vas-vegyületek lefelé irányuló mozgásávbal és adott mélységben történő kicsapódásával próbálták meg leírni a jelenséget. Munkánk célja ásványtani, talajtani és mikrobiológiai vizsgálatok segítségével megválaszolni a kovárványképződésének kérdését.

A Nyírség tamáspusztai homokdomb alapvetően homogénnek tekinthet ásványi összetételét tekintve. A kovárványszintek képződésének korábban leírt kémiai és szemcseösszetételbeli kritériumai teljesülnek (pH 4.5–6.5 közé esik, a szemcseösszetétel pedig a kovárványrétegben meghaladja a leiszapolható rész 10 %-ot). Részletesen vizsgálva a kovárványrétegeket benne a homokszemcsék korrodáltak, töredezettebbek, ami mind egykori gyökérnedvek korróziójának eredménye lehet. A homokszemcsék kötőanyaga a kovárványrétegben elsősorban vas-oxihidroxidból áll, és a kovárványréteg eredetileg képlékeny, gyúrt, szakadozott szerkezetet mutat. A kovárványréteg felső része erodált, ami egykori talajfelszínen történő elhelyezkedését jelzi. A réteg alsó része tagolt és gyakran benyúlik az alatta elhelyezkedő homoktestbe. Véleményünk szerint a vas-oxihidroxid kiválások a kovárványrétegben alapvetően biológiai (növényi vas felvétel, majd elhalás után mikrobiális bontás segítségével létrejött vas-oxihidroxid akkumuláció) akkumulációs és kiválási folyamatokra utalnak. Mindezek alapján úgy gondoljuk, hogy a kovárványrétegek az egykori homokdomb felszínén képződtek és nem később bekövetkezett vasmozgás során jöttek létre.
PROFIL KETERAMPILAN BERPIKIR KRITIS SISWA MENGGUNAKAN PEMBELAJARAN DISCOVERY INQUIRY PADA KONSEP KOLOID
Authors: Salbiah Salbiah
Published: June 2017

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa setelah proses pembelajaran. Metode penelitian kelas digunakan dalam penelitian ini untuk memperbaiki kualitas pembelajaran di kelas melalui penerapan pembelajaran discovery inquiry. Subjek penelitian ini adalah 42 siswa kelas XI IPA di salah satu Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) di Jawa Barat. Instrumen yang digunakan adalah deskripsi pembelajaran, lembar kerja siswa, tes keterampilan berpikir kritis, dan pedoman observasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan keterampilan berpikir kritis siswa setelah pembelajaran secara keseluruhan termasuk pada kategori sangat baik (nilai 81). Pencapaian keterampilan berpikir kritis tertinggi pada indikator mengidentifikasi contoh (89) dan terendah pada indikator membuat kesimpulan (72). Kelompok prestasi tinggi pencapaiannya tertinggi (90), sedangkan kelompok prestasi rendah pencapaiannya paling rendah (73).
SETTLING TIME ASSIGNMENT WITH PID
Authors: Phuoc Nguyen Doan , Nam Nguyen Hoai
Published: June 2017

In this paper, the settling time of closed loop systems controlled with PID, which is established by using magnitude and symmetric optimum methods, are analyzed. These methods have some limitations such as limited frequency bands, existence of overshoot and larger settling time. Thus, our aim is to improve these performances of the closed loop system for a certain class of transfer functions. The proposed method will be tested on a DC motor by simulation. It can be concluded that the method provides a larger range of frequency, smaller settling time and no overshoot.
Znaczenie przepowiadania słowa Bożego w liturgii dla budowania wiary katechizowanych
Authors: Sławiński Henryk
Published: June 2017

Artykuł wyjaśnia znaczenie terminów: przepowiadanie słowa Bożego, homilia i katecheza. Omawia znaczenie homilii jako przepowiadania słowa Bożego w liturgii dla budowania wiary katechizowanych. Ponadto wykazuje kompatybilność homilii i katechezy oraz ich wspólny cel, jakim jest ożywianie i pogłębianie wiary katechizowanych. Przepowiadanie liturgiczne jest przedstawione jako stały pokarm dla uczestników katechezy i wszystkich wierzących.
Atomistic dynamics simulation to solve conformation of model PCE superplasticisers in water and cement pore solution
Authors: Hirata Tsuyoshi , Branicio Paulo , Ye Jun , Zheng Jianwei , Tomike Yoshikazu , Lange Alex , Plank Johann , Sullivan Michael
Published: June 2017

The working mechanism of polycarboxylate ether (PCE) type superplasticisers in concrete was studied from the point of view of conformational changes of the polymer simulated by molecular dynamics in pure water and cement pore solution. Three typical types of PCEs, namely a methoxy polyethyleneglycol monomethacrylate–sodium methacrylate copolymer (PCEM), a polyethyleneglycol mono allyl ether–sodium maleate copolymer (PCEA) and a polyethyleneglycol mono (3-methyl-3-butenyl) ether–sodium acrylate copolymer (PCEI) were investigated using large-scale atomistic molecular dynamics simulations. It was observed that the PCE polymers which possess negatively charged backbones were stretched in water due to electrostatic repulsion. However, they were found to be significantly shrunken and distorted in synthetic cement pore solution, depending on the polyethylene glycol (PEG) density along the backbone, resulting in the aggregation of PEG side chains due to the salting-out effect.
Sorption Isotherm Phenomena in Cured Oriental Tobacco I. Water Activity Behavior and Hysteresis
Authors: Amin Aumeed
Published: June 2017

valuable information can be obtained from the examination of moisture content of tobacco leaves in relation to environmental conditions, especially during the time course of handling. Moisture sorption isotherms of locally grown tobaccos were examined. Tobacco leaves of cultivars behaved differently in term of water activity.

Moisture sorption isotherms of midrib were higher than those of laminal. Temperature dependence of sorption isotherms were apparent. Hysteresis phenomena were distinct. Leaves were different in their hysteresis.
A study of some types of forage legumes grown on different dates in Sulaimani
Authors: Tofiq Sherwan
Published: June 2017

A field experiment was conducted during two consecutive winter seasons 90/89 and 91/90 in the Bagrjo region, which is guaranteed rain, in order to evaluate some types of annual leguminous fodder (Sulaimani local cocos, Duhok local cocos, Sulaymaniyah local polka and Duhok local cocos) and study the effect of four dates. For planting, starting from the beginning of November, with a period of (15) days between one date and another, depending on the characteristics of growth and forage yield.The results of this research indicated that there were no significant differences between the three species in the characteristics of plant height and green forage yield, while type (4) was significantly superior in the number of forks/girls, dry yield and percentage of dry matter, and type (3) was significantly superior in the characteristic of The percentage of leaves, while all these species proved successful under the conditions of the region when planted during the period (1-15) November.