bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PENGEMBANGAN INDUSTRI PENGOLAHAN IKAN DITINJAU DARI PRODUKSI HASIL TANGKAPAN DI PPN PALABUHANRATU
Authors: Lubis Ernani , Sumiati Sumiati
Published: December 2017

In fact, fish processing industry is very importance to support development a fishing port. It is the same with the case of territorial fishing port (PPN) of Palabuhanratu. So that a research to determine the condition of fish catch production that was able to support the development of fish processing industry, need to be done. A case study on the underdeveloped of fish processing industry in PPN Palabuhanratu was done. Data analysis using descriptive numerical projection of the catch by estimating the need for the development of fish processing industry. Processing type that exist in PPN Palabuhanratu and nowadays are the processing on fish freezing, fish boiling, fish salting, crisp chips, meatball fish and abon fish. Based on the result of projection, the best fish production prospective as raw material for fish processing industry are skipjack tunas, eastern little tuna, tunas, hairtails, shark, ponyfish, ray, Indo-Pacific marlin, scads and wolf herring. A preceding ten year period of 2008-2017, the production of skipjack tunas, eastern little tuna, tunas, ponyfish, Indo-Pacific marlin, scads and wolf herring tend to increase, while the others will decrease. The development of other types of processing industries can be done for freezing, canning, fillet, loin, surimi and nuggets fish.
FORMULASI STRATEGI PENGEMBANGAN PELABUHAN PERIKANAN NUSANTARA PENGAMBENGAN JEMBRANA
Authors: Suherman A.
Published: December 2017

Strategies are required by any Fishery Port (PP) in order to have a clear direction in achieving the desired objectives to develop a competitive advantage so that FP can not only survive, but also to win the competition. The purpose of this study is to formulate the development strategies of Pengambengan NFP. The method used was a descriptive survey of case study. The results of this study show that Pengambengan NFP development strategy include: (1) The increase in Pengambengan NFP service quality, (2) improvement capacity and institutional coordination, (3) revitalization, improvement, maintenance and development facilities in Pengambengan NFP to be the center of integrated fisheries activities (4) capitas support to increase access in Pengambengan NFP capture fisheries, and (5) Improve the quality of human resource and fishery communities in the Pengambengan NFP.
ASSESSMENT OF ISCHEMIA MODIFIED ALBUMIN SERUM LEVEL IN ISO- PROTERENOL-INDUCED MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
Authors: Timercan T. , Timercan V.
Published: December 2017

ASSESSMENT OF ISCHEMIA MODIFIED ALBUMIN SERUM LEVEL IN ISO- PROTERENOL-INDUCED MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION
COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE DYNAMICS OF THE SIZE OF THE FURUNCLE INFILTRATE OF THE MAXILLOFACIAL AREA WITH DIFFERENT POSTOPERATIVE TREATMENT
Authors: Flerjanovich M.S. , Pohodenko-Chudakova I.O.
Published: December 2017

COMPARATIVE EVALUATION OF THE DYNAMICS OF THE SIZE OF THE FURUNCLE INFILTRATE OF THE MAXILLOFACIAL AREA WITH DIFFERENT POSTOPERATIVE TREATMENT
ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION OF HAIR AS AN OBJECTIVE INDICATOR FOR DIAGNOSICS, PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF MICROELEMENTOSIS
Authors: Sharipov K.O. , Bulygin K.A. , Sharipov D.K. , Dosymbekova R.S.
Published: December 2017

ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION OF HAIR AS AN OBJECTIVE INDICATOR FOR DIAGNOSICS, PREVENTION AND TREATMENT OF MICROELEMENTOSIS
VITAMIN D RECEPTOR GENE POLYMORPHISM IN PATIENTS WITH JUVENILE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
Authors: Myslivets M. , Paramonova N. , Stepuro T.
Published: December 2017

VITAMIN D RECEPTOR GENE POLYMORPHISM IN PATIENTS WITH JUVENILE RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
LOSS OF HETEROZYGOSITY AT THE BRCA1 LOCUS AS A MARKER OF SEN- SITIVITY FOR ADJUVANT CHEMOTHERAPY IN HEREDITARY OVARIAN CANCER
Authors: Sokolenko A.P. , Savanevich A.L. , Stepuro T.L. , Shulga A.V. , Berlev I.V. , Imyanitov E.N. , Petrov N.N.
Published: December 2017

LOSS OF HETEROZYGOSITY AT THE BRCA1 LOCUS AS A MARKER OF SEN- SITIVITY FOR ADJUVANT CHEMOTHERAPY IN HEREDITARY OVARIAN CANCER
Penerapan Open Learning Course bagi Lembaga Pendidikan Islam (Analisis Persepsi Pengelola Pesantren di Kabupaten Kudus-Jawa Tengah).
Authors: Abid Nuskhan
Published: December 2017

Open Learning Course Application For Islamic Education Institutions (Perception Analysis of Pesantren Management in Kabupaten Kudus-Central Java).Information and Communication Technology (TIK) is speeding up. It also affects the development of the distribution of pure religious sciences. Islamic educational institutions such as pesantren are the spearheads in the distribution of religious knowledge that still survive with traditional learning models. This article aims to find out the perception of managers of Islamic educational institutions, especially pesantren about open learning based online. The method used is qualitative with observation and distribution questionnaire to get data. The result is that the majority of pesantren managers in Kabupaten Kudus, Central Java Indonesia still retains traditional learning models rather than trying to develop open learning courses because of the lack of reference and insight about open learning course. Socialization about open learning and the importance of the distribution of pure religious knowledge is needed for the development of open learning in the future.
Ethical Issues in Biomedical Research and Publication
Authors: Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: December 2017

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 1-8
Chikungunya Viral Infection Requiring Intensive Care – Experience in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Nazneen Suraiya , Saha Madhurima , Hossain Rakib , Ahsan ASM Areef , Fatema Kaniz , Ahmed Fatema , Saha Debasish Kumar , Sultana Rozina
Published: December 2017

Background: Chikungunya fever is a benign self-limiting viral illness. Although it is considered as a nonfatal disease but in elderly patients who have co-morbidities can present with atypical life threatening clinical menifestations which may cause significant morbidity and mortality.The Aim of this study is to observe atypical presentations ,various complications and outcome of chikungunya fever.Methods: This was a cross sectional observational study was carried out on 23 adult patients with chikungunya fever from 1st June to 31st July of 2017 in the Department of Critical Care Medicine of BIRDEM General Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh.Results: Total 23 patients were included in this study, male 83% and female 17%.From indoor 17(73.9%) patients got admitted in ICU, 3(13%) patients came directly from home and 3(13%) patients from another hospitals. Most of the patients were elderly having co-morbidities like diabetes, Hypertension, IHD and CKD. COPD and CVD were also present in a few numbers of patients. Most of the patients had fever , arthralgia and headache but respiratory distress (73.9%), altered mental status (56.5%), vomiting (21.7%), diarrhoea (17.3%) and low urine output (17.3%) are the causes of ICU admission. Major Organ involvement of the study subjects were respiratory system (52.1%), renal system (47.8%), CVS (34.7%) and nervous system (34.7%). Among 23, 16(70%) patients improved and 4(17%) patients died in ICU.Conclusion: This study highlights that though chikungunya fever is considered as a benign non-fatal disease it can produce life threatening clinical menifestations and serious complications requiring Intensive Care particularly in elderly comorbid patients and can cause high mortality.Birdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 16-20
Outcome of Surgical Treatment of Spondylolisthesis by Decompression, Stabilization with Transpedicular Screws and Rods and Posterior Lumbar Interbodyfusion
Authors: Saha Apel Chandra , Masud Md Hasan
Published: December 2017

Background: Spondylolisthesis means forward shift of upper vertebral column over the lower vertebra. Most of the spondylolisthesis patients can be successfully treated by conservative treatment. A small but significant number of cases need surgical intervention. Design and capability of spinal instruments have drastically changed the principle of correction of spondylolisthesis by surgical interventions for better functional outcome. The objectives of this study were to assess surgical outcome, complications and return to normal activity of spondylolisthesis patients by posterior approach.Methods: This was a prospective interventional study, carried out at NITOR and different private hospitals in Dhaka from October 2012 to December 2014. Total number of patients was 12, who underwent posterior decompression and stabilization with transpedicular screws and rods and posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF).Patients were followed up for a period of six months to one year. Functional outcome was evaluated by using Modified Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire.Results : Among 12 patients 5 were males and 7 were females, age ranged from 21-70 years with a mean age 43 ±7 years. Three patients (25%) had grade I, 8 patients (66.67%) had grade II and 1 patient (8.33%) had grade III spondylolisthesis. Follow up period was 6 months to 1 year. According to Modified Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire,it was observed that out of 12 patients 3 patients (25%) had excellent, 8 patients (66.67%) had better and 1 patient (8.33%) had worse functional outcome.In this study overall a satisfactory (excellent and better) result was found in 11 (91.68%) patients and unsatisfactory (unchanged and worse) result in 1 (8.33%) patient. Dural tear occurred in 1 patient (8.33%). Dural tear was repaired with 5/ 0 vicryl and there was no cerebro spinal fluid leakage. One patient (8.33%) developed foot drop that was treated surgically later on.Conclusion: Based on the results shown above, it is concluded that surgical treatment of spondylolisthesis by decompression, stabilization with transpedicular screws and rods and PLIF is a safe, effective and acceptable modality of treatment.Birdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 21-25
Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C Virus Infection among End Stage Renal Disease Patients on Maintenance Hemodialysis, Their Family Members and Dialysis Staffs - A Prevalence Study
Authors: Hossain Rana Mokarram , Iqbal M Masud , Rahman Zeenat Farzana , Sultana Rosy , Rahman Md Habibur , Islam Md Nazrul , Khan Nazmun Nahar , Mansur Md Abul , Rahman Md Anisur , Iqbal Sarwar , Hassan M Sawkat
Published: December 2017

Background: Hepatitis B (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is common among patients on maintenance hemodialysis (MHD). This study was undertaken to observe prevalence of hepatitis B and C infection in hemodialysis patients, their family members and dialysis staffs.Methods: In this cross-sectional study 3 groups were included as gr-1 patients on MHD, the first-degree relatives in gr-2 and the dialysis staffs as gr-3. Clinical and laboratory investigations were done. Viral serology included hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and antibody against hepatitis C virus (anti-HCV) done by enzyme linked immunosorbent sorbent assay (ELISA) method.Results: Total 150 subjects were analyzed where 50 were in gr-1, 60 gr-2 and 40 in gr-3. In gr-1 MHD patients, HBV infection was positive in 12% and HCV in 71%. None of the viral markers were positive in family members and dialysis staffs. Blood transfusion (BT) was taken by 76% MHD patents. The frequency of HBV and HCV infection was of similar pattern in both BT dependent and non BT group (P=NS).When HCV positive and negative patents were (71 vs. 29%, p<0.001) compared, dialysis duration (37 ± 34 vs. 11± 6 months, p<0.001) was found higher in positive patients.Conclusion: This survey on dialysis patients showed that prevalence of hepatitis B and C virus infections was higher in Bangladeshi patients on MHD groups. Horizontal spread of these viruses is negligible in caregivers and dialysis staffs.Birdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 42-46
Comparison of Cross Sectional Areas of Median Nerve in Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Peripheral Neuropathy with Healthy Adult Subjects Measured by 2 D-B Mode High Resolution Ultrasonography
Authors: Rahman Md Towhidur , Mohiuddin AS , Sharif Md Mofazzal , Sultana Jafreen , Yeshmine Fahmida , Hussain Mahbuba , Dey Sharmistha
Published: December 2017

Background: Patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) have distal, symmetrical form of the disorder characterized by numbness, burning feet, pins-and-needles sensations and lightning pain. This study was designed to find out the difference between 2 Dimentional (D)-Brightness (B) mode high resolution ultrasonographically measured cross sectional areas of median nerve in type 2 diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy and those of non-diabetic healthy adult subjects.Methods: This case-control study was done on 180 subjects aged 27-67 years in the department of Radiology and Imaging, BIRDEM from January 2012 to December 2013. Out of them 90 diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy diagnosed electrophysiologically by nerve conduction study (NCS) were considered study group and age, sex and weight compatible 90 healthy subjects were considered as control group. Measurement of cross sectional areas of median nerve was performed first by the investigator himself purposefully, consecutively and subsequently confirmed by a radiologist in the department of Radiology and Imaging, BIRDEM, who did not know the subjects’ condition to eliminate bias. The major axis, minor axis and the cross sectional areas (CSA) of the median nerve were measured at the carpal tunnel.Results: In this study, the mean cross sectional areas (mm2) of median nerve healthy subjects was 7.78±1.00 mm2 and in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy was 13.67±2.97 mm2. The difference mean CSA of median nerve of diabetic subjects with peripheral neuropathy and control subjects were statistically significant (p<0.05) in unpaired ‘t’ test.Conclusion: This study showed that there is a significant difference between the cross sectional areas of median nerve in diabetic subjects with peripheral neuropathy and healthy adult subjects. The mean cross sectional areas of median nerve were increased in diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy compared to control group.Birdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 47-51
Dengue-Chikungunya Co-Infection: A Case Report from 2017-Chikungunya Outbreak in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Haque Hasna Fahmima , Afroz Farhana , Afroze Samira Rahat , Rahim Muhammad Abdur , Mahiuddin Najeeb , Amin Mohammad Gaffar , Musa AKM
Published: December 2017

A case of dengue virus and chikungunya viruse co-infection is reported here. The patient had fever, severe generalized bodyache, arthritis as well as drowsiness. Laboratory investigations showed dengue-chikungunya co-infection. The objective of our report is to emphasize the co-existence of dengue and chikungunya in a clinical case and to aware the clinicians about chikungunya and dengue co-infection.Birdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 72-74
A Case of Adrenal Histoplasmosis
Authors: Afsana Faria , Hossain Kazi Nazmul , Tareque Ashfaq , Amin Mohammad Feroz , Pathan Md Faruque
Published: December 2017

Histoplasmosis is a fungal disease that may present as chronic pulmonary infection or in disseminated form. Disseminated histoplasmosis frequently affects the adrenal gland; sometimes adrenal gland may be the only site of demonstrable disease. Unilateral involvement in immunosuppressed patients is the usual presentation but bilateral involvement may be also there. Early diagnosis and treatment may save the patient from catastrophic adrenal insufficiency. Considering the risk of morbidity following adrenal insufficiency and the wide availability of effective treatments, adrenal histoplasmosis must be considered in adults who had adrenal masses. Though asymptomatic adrenal involvement has been described in patients with disseminated histoplasmosis; isolated adrenal involvement with or without adrenal insufficiency as the presenting feature of the disease is rare. In this report, a 42 years male presenting with history of weight loss, fever and later revealed bilateral adrenal mass, who was successfully treated with antifungal drug is described.Birdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 77-80
Medical Quiz: Images Vol.8(1)
Authors: Islam Md Rashedul , Rahman Tanbin
Published: December 2017

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 83
Medical Quiz: Single Best Answer (SBA) Vol.8(1)
Authors: Ahmed Jamal Uddin
Published: December 2017

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 84
Medical Quiz: SBA Answers Vol.8(1)
Authors: Uddin Khwaja Nazim
Published: December 2017

Abstract not availableBirdem Med J 2018; 8(1): 89
Publishing articles in scientific journals: a concern for research misconduct or dishonesty (fabrication, falsification and plagiarism)
Authors: Laskar MS
Published: December 2017

An area of concern in scientific research including medical research is misconduct or dishonesty like fabrication, falsification, or plagiarism in proposing, performing, or reviewing research, or in reporting research results. This article focuses on the concepts of research misconduct with the objectives to discuss briefly on the extent of problem, various forms, possible reasons; methods of detection, and prevention. It is expected that this article will encourage the leaders of academic research groups to inform their students, future researchers and research associates about the ethical responsibilities of scientific research and publications, and to insure that, when they are given the responsibility for research and consequently submitting a paper, they are fully aware of the potential consequences to themselves and to their coauthors for violations of research ethical guidelines.Mediscope Vol. 4, No. 2: Jul 2017, Page 1-4
Clinical presentation and complication of chronic suppurative otitis media with cholesteatoma in a rural setting
Authors: Islam MS , Gafur MA , Noor L , Islam MR
Published: December 2017

To study the clinical presentations of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) with cholesteatoma and its complication, 96 patients with CSOM from ENT department of a medical college hospital during January 2011 to January 2014 were included in this study. The highest number of cases belonged to the age group of 11-20 years (55.2%), and the number of males and females was 67.2% and 32.8%, respectively. Almost all the patients presented with multiple symptoms. The most common symptoms were discharge from ear(s) (100.0%), hearing impairment (83.3%), earache (15.6%), fleshy mass in ear(s), etc. Of the patients, 67.9% cases were without complication, 26.1% with extracranial complication and 6.3% with intracranial complication. All the cases had a perforation either in the posterior superior marginal (66.5%) or in the attic region (33.5%). Most of the patients were having unilateral CSOM with cholesteatoma, in the right side (64.3%), left side (35.7%), and a few (4.2%) bilateral involvement. Although 83.3% of the patients complained of deafness, audiometric tests were done in 93.7% of the patients excluding 6.4% who had intracranial complication. All of them (93.7% tested) had developed deafness; mild deafness (20.0%), moderate deafness (77.8%), and severe deafness (2.2%). In conclusion, the pattern of clinical presentation and complication of CSOM with cholesteatoma in rural setting may be similar with the pattern involving urban population and early diagnosis of CSOM with cholesteatoma by taking proper history and clinical examination, and timely surgical intervention may be helpful to eradicate the disease and prevent complications.Mediscope Vol. 4, No. 2: Jul 2017, Page 25-28
Bronchiolitis obliterans
Authors: Kabir MA , Hossain SS , Dutta BR
Published: December 2017

The term ‘bronchiolitis obliterans’ was historically used by pathologists to refer to two distinct patterns of small-airway disease. The first was characterized by intraluminal polyps in the small airways. It was subsequently named bronchiolitis obliterans with organizing pneumonia and, more recently, cryptogenic organizing pneumonia. The second pattern was characterized by sub-epithelial inflammatory and fibrotic narrowing of the bronchioles, which is now recognized as obliterative bronchiolitis or constrictive bronchiolitis. In this study we reported a case of a male patient of 55 years who got admitted to a teaching hospital with progressive dyspnea and nonproductive cough over a period of 12 months and was released after proper treatment and management.Mediscope Vol. 4, No. 2: Jul 2017, Page 39-43
Tissue Culture Mediated Allelic Diversification and Genomic Enrichment of Wheat to Combat Production Constraints and Address Food Security
Authors: Kazi A Mujeeb , Ali Niaz , Ibrahim Amir , Napar Abdul Aziz , Jamil M , Hussain Sajjad , Mahmood Zahid , Delgado Roman , Rosas Victor , Cortes Alejandro , Rajaram S
Published: December 2017

In view of the emerging population trends and that wheat crop is the major unequivocally recognized conduit towards addressing the food security challenges of 2050 this discourse embraces various research options that are viewed as possible solutions toward delivering those targets for providing nutritious food and meeting the aspirations that policy setters have debated on the subject for decades. The underlying strength for achieving these targets will require concerted efforts from plant researchers that are well integrated within effectively harnessing and utilizing prevalent genetic diversity of the wide array of alleles in a holistic pro‐active manner. We argue that the purists of basic and strategic research dimensions need to be thoughtfully defined, so that the vital target of delivering the “applied” gains are only realized from the outputs on farmer’s fields and measured by tons per hectare. In this quest, the pre‐breeding disciplines “classical mode” and its recently surfaced “modified sense” are pivotal, where within the former facet “tissue culture” (TC)/artificial culturing is embodied integrally. Taken for granted, TC has been the backbone of all wide hybridization studies and has made an enormous impact on the agricultural landscape spanning over the last six decades. With its intervention significant generic and specific incompatibilities have been overcome as well as allowing researchers to exploit the protocols for adding efficiency to breeding programs, facilitate operational technologies in running breeding programs and development of unique genetic stocks that preserve valuable allelic richness in user friendly forms for future free germplasmusage in global/private domains of plant improvement ventures.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 27(1): 89-140, 2017 (June)
In vitro Plant Regeneration of Magnolia punduana: An Endemic and Threatened Plant Species
Authors: Borah Rajib , Kumaria Suman , Choudhury Hiranjit
Published: December 2017

Shoots were induced from axillary and nodal buds of Magnolia punduna on MS supplemented with 0.1 μm of BAP. Out of five basal media tested (MS, ½ MS, ¼ MS, LS and WP), MS was found to be most effective for shoot and callus initiation. Different plant growth regulators (0.1 ‐ 1.0 μm) induced shoot formation in different proportions. The combination of 0.1 μm IBA and 0.5 μm BAP was found optimum for shoot elongation with minimal necrosis of the explants. Half strength of MS supplemented with 8.0 μm IBA was found suitable for rooting.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 27(2): 153-159, 2017 (December)
In vitro Osmotic Stress Memory in Chrisanthemum hybridum: Structural and Physiological Responses
Authors: Samarina Lidiia , Malyarovskaya Valentina , Abilfazova Yulija , Platonova Natalia , Klemeshova Kristina , Paschenko Olga
Published: December 2017

Structural and physiological responses of chrysanthemum to repeated osmotic stress were studied. Plants were cultured for 2 weeks (for each stress1 and stress 2) on half MS supplemented with mannitol 100 mM (Treatment I) and 200 mM (Treatment II). First stress inhibited growth parameters stronger than second stress in treatment I. In treatment II both stress events strongly inhibited growth parameters of micro‐shoots. Proline content exceeded control 6 ‐ 8 times after 1st stress, and 2 ‐ 5 times after the 2nd stress in treatments I and II, respectively. Soluble protein was accumulated in leaves during both stress exposures, and 2 ‐ 2.5 times exceeded control after the 2nd stress. Relative water content in both treatments increased after the 2nd stress exposure. In treatment II chlorophyll а and carotenoids contents were 8.78 and 4.62 mg/g comparing to control (4.21 and 2.25 mg/g, respectively) after the 1st stress. But after the 2nd stress there was no difference with control.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 27(2): 161-169, 2017 (December)
Effect of Methyl Jasmonate and Mannitol Application on Growth and Eugenol Content in Callus Cultures of Carnation
Authors: Matter Mohamed A , Hanafy Moemen S , Aly Usama I
Published: December 2017

A protocol for callus induction from leaves of carnation is established. MS fortified with 2.0 mg /l 2,4‐D and 0.5 mg/l Kn was found to be the appropriate medium for producing callus cultures. Methyl jasmonate at 20 μM concentration showed the highest growth rate (98.21 mg/day) while mannitol concentrations at 2% gave the peak growth rate (97.1 mg/day).The highest content of eugenol (14.65 μg/100 g calli) was recorded with medium containing 20 μM methyl jasmonate followed by 8.16 μg/100 g calli with 10 μM methyl jasmonate. In presence of 0.5% mannitol, maximum eugenol content (18.00 μg/100 g calli) was obtained.Plant Tissue Cult. & Biotech. 27(2): 227-240, 2017 (December)
Germinal Center Optimization Applied to Neural Inverse Optimal Control for an All-Terrain Tracked Robot
Authors: Villaseñor Carlos , Rios Jorge , Arana-Daniel Nancy , Alanis Alma , Lopez-Franco Carlos , Hernandez-Vargas Esteban
Published: December 2017

Nowadays, there are several meta-heuristics algorithms which offer solutions for multi-variate optimization problems. These algorithms use a population of candidate solutions which explore the search space, where the leadership plays a big role in the exploration-exploitation equilibrium. In this work, we propose to use a Germinal Center Optimization algorithm (GCO) which implements temporal leadership through modeling a non-uniform competitive-based distribution for particle selection. GCO is used to find an optimal set of parameters for a neural inverse optimal control applied to all-terrain tracked robot. In the Neural Inverse Optimal Control (NIOC) scheme, a neural identifier, based on Recurrent High Orden Neural Network (RHONN) trained with an extended kalman filter algorithm, is used to obtain a model of the system, then, a control law is design using such model with the inverse optimal control approach. The RHONN identifier is developed without knowledge of the plant model or its parameters, on the other hand, the inverse optimal control is designed for tracking velocity references. Applicability of the proposed scheme is illustrated using simulations results as well as real-time experimental results with an all-terrain tracked robot.
Psychological Predictors of Sexual Intimate Partner Violence against Black and Hispanic Women
Authors: Preiser Brianna , Assari Shervin
Published: December 2017

Background: Although various types of intimate partner violence (IPV) tend to co-occur, risk factors of each type of IPV may differ. At the same time, most of the existing literature on risk factors of IPV among minorities has used a cross-sectional design and has focused on physical rather than sexual IPV. We conducted the current study to compare Black and Hispanic women for psychological predictors of change in sexual IPV over time. Methods: Using data from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (FFCWS), this study followed 561 Black and 475 Hispanic women with their male partners for four years. Independent variables included male partners’ depression, anxiety, problem alcohol use, and male-to-female physical and psychological IPV perpetration. The dependent variable was sexual IPV reported by female partners, measured at baseline, two years, and four years later. Covariates included age, income, marital status and educational level. We used a multi-group latent growth curve model (LGCM) to explain intercept, linear, and quadratic slopes, which represent the baseline, and linear and curvilinear trajectories of male-to-female sexual IPV, where groups were defined based on ethnicity. Results: Psychological IPV was associated with sexual IPV at baseline among both ethnic groups. The male partner’s depression was a risk factor for an increase in sexual IPV over time among Black but not Hispanic women. Anxiety, problem alcohol use and physical IPV did not have an effect on the baseline or change in sexual IPV over time. Psychological IPV was not associated with an increase in sexual IPV over time in either ethnic groups. Conclusions: There is a need for screening of sexual IPV in the presence of psychological IPV among minority women. There is also a need for screening and treatment of male partners’ depression as a strategy to reduce sexual IPV among Black women.
The Impact of Iwan as a Traditional Shading Device on the Building Energy Consumption
Authors: Eskandari Hamid , Saedvandi Mahdi , Mahdavinejad Mohammadjavad
Published: December 2017

In this paper, the effect of an exterior shading element (Iwan) on energy consumption in four different climatic regions and for different orientations, has been investigated numerically and experimentally. By applying different materials and techniques and creating various elements and spaces, architects make hard climatic conditions more tolerable for residents. Iwan is one of the cooling elements which is used in different forms and dimensions in the Islamic architecture. In the present research, Iwan has been introduced as a climatic element in traditional and contemporary architectures and its role in reducing the energy consumption in buildings has been studied. In this respect, first, the thermal loads of a building without Iwan are computed using the EnergyPlus software. Then, four different forms of Iwan are added to the above-mentioned structure along the four principal orientations, moreover, the effect of Iwan on the reduction of thermal loads is analyzed for four different climates. Finally, the design parameters of Iwan, in terms of depth and form, which can help reduce the thermal loads in different climatic conditions are presented. The results show that the best position for using an Iwan is the south direction and the use of Iwan in temperate & humid, hot & humid, cold & mountainous and hot & dry climates could reduce the energy consumption in buildings by 32%, 26%, 14% and 29%, respectively.
One-Pot Synthesis of Graphene-Sulfur Composites for Li-S Batteries: Influence of Sulfur Precursors
Authors: Moo James , Omar Ahmad , Jaumann Tony , Oswald Steffen , Balach Juan , Maletti Sebastian , Giebeler Lars
Published: December 2017

Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries are postulated as next-generation electrochemical energy storage devices due to their increased storage capabilities. However, challenges persist from the polysulfide-shuttle effect at the cathode. Soluble sulfur-based species in the cathode cross over to the lithium anode through the separator leading to fading capacity with cycling. This has spurred continuous effort by the scientific community to develop novel cathodes where sulfur species can affix better. A conductive nanostructured graphene network is a suitable candidate that can serve as a scaffold for holding sulfur nanoparticles. Here, a one-pot synthesis of chemically reduced graphene oxide networks prepared from easily accessible graphene oxide is demonstrated. The solution-based method simply allows for impregnation of the graphene oxide network with sulfur nanoparticles through a careful manipulation of pH of the chemical environment. Two routes were chosen for the precipitation of such sulfur nanoparticles: firstly, the dissolution of sulfur in sodium hydroxide into polysulfides followed by acidification and secondly, the acidification of sodium thiosulfate from alkaline media into sulfur nanoparticles. Both graphene oxide materials from the two routes were treated with sodium borohydride to achieve conductive graphene. The second route, with the sulfur nanoparticles derived from the acidification of sodium thiosulfate with chemically reduced graphene oxide, demonstrated favorable electrochemical behavior, showing promise as electrode material for Li-S batteries.
Pediatric Hypothermic Submersion Injury and Protective Factors Associated with Optimal Outcome: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Kriz Daniel , Piantino Juan , Fields Devin , Williams Cydni
Published: December 2017

Drowning is the 3rd leading cause of unintentional injury death worldwide, with the highest rates of fatality among young children. Submersion injuries with cardiac arrest can lead to long-term neurologic morbidity. Severe hypothermic submersion injuries have complex treatment courses and survivors have variable neurocognitive outcomes. We describe the course of a hypothermic submersion injury in a 6-year-old previously healthy boy. The description includes premorbid and post-injury neurocognitive functioning. A review of the literature of pediatric cold-water submersion injury was performed. Despite prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation (>100 min) and water temperature well above freezing, our patient had an optimal neurocognitive outcome following hypothermic submersion injury. Available literature is limited but suggests that increased submersion time, increased duration of resuscitation, and higher water temperatures are associated with worse outcomes. Care guidelines have been created, but outcomes related to these guidelines have not been studied. Our case highlights potential important determinants of outcome after drowning. Incident specific characteristics and therapeutic interventions should be considered when evaluating this population. Treatment guidelines based on currently available literature may fail to incorporate all potential variables, and consideration should be given to prolonged resuscitative efforts based on individual case characteristics until further data is available.
A New Chaotic System with Multiple Attractors: Dynamic Analysis, Circuit Realization and S-Box Design
Authors: Lai Qiang , Akgul Akif , Li Chunbiao , Xu Guanghui , Çavuşoğlu Ünal
Published: December 2017

This paper reports about a novel three-dimensional chaotic system with three nonlinearities. The system has one stable equilibrium, two stable equilibria and one saddle node, two saddle foci and one saddle node for different parameters. One salient feature of this novel system is its multiple attractors caused by different initial values. With the change of parameters, the system experiences mono-stability, bi-stability, mono-periodicity, bi-periodicity, one strange attractor, and two coexisting strange attractors. The complex dynamic behaviors of the system are revealed by analyzing the corresponding equilibria and using the numerical simulation method. In addition, an electronic circuit is given for implementing the chaotic attractors of the system. Using the new chaotic system, an S-Box is developed for cryptographic operations. Moreover, we test the performance of this produced S-Box and compare it to the existing S-Box studies.
Active Splitting in Longitudinal Power Systems based on a WAMPC
Authors: Arraño-Vargas Felipe , Rahmann Claudia , Valencia Felipe , Vargas Luis
Published: December 2017

This paper proposes an active splitting scheme especially suitable for longitudinal power systems (LPS). The proposed scheme is based on a modified out-of-step (OOS) algorithm combined with an angle difference method using synchrophasor measurements. The remedial actions are based on the detection of possible loss of synchronism due to severe disturbances. The scheme was tested on a detailed dynamic model of the Central Interconnected System of Chile, a good example of extreme LPS. Obtained results show that remedial actions taken by the proposed protection scheme are able to avoid the total collapse of the system during critical contingencies.
Velocities in a Centrifugal PAT Operation: Experiments and CFD Analyses
Authors: Simão Mariana , Pérez-Sánchez Modesto , Carravetta Armando , López-Jiménez Petra , Ramos Helena
Published: December 2017

Velocity profiles originated by a pump as turbine (PAT) were measured using an ultrasonic doppler velocimetry (UDV). PAT behavior is influenced by the velocity data. The effect of the rotational speed and the associated flow velocity variations were investigated. This research focuses, particularly, on the velocity profiles achieved for different rotational speeds and discharge values along the impeller since that is where the available hydraulic power is transformed into the mechanical power. Comparisons were made between experimental test results and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. The used CFD model was calibrated and validated using the same conditions as the experimental facility. The numerical simulations showed good approximation with the velocity measurements for different cross-sections along the PAT system. The application of this CFD numerical model and experimental tests contributed to better understanding the system behavior and to reach the best efficiency operating conditions. Improvements in the knowledge about the hydrodynamic flow behavior associated with the velocity triangles contribute to improvements in the PAT concept and operation.
Situating Poligen Studies: Between Moral Enquiry and Political Theory
Authors: Fillion Réal
Published: December 2017

In this article, I argue that we can best appreciate those works that appeal to the notion of “political genealogy” as distinct forms of study by situating them between moral enquiry and political theory. They draw from moral enquiry the concern with how we ought to live but are not themselves prescriptive. They address the political constitution of our social lives but not as a theoretical object. Reversing the relation between enquiry and truth, political genealogies are historiographical studies motivated by forms of resistance that expose the will to truth of the present ordering of discourses, thereby releasing the hold such orderings have on what we think, say, and do to their on-going agonistic relations.
A Pilot Study to Determine the Consistency of Simultaneous Sleep Actigraphy Measurements Comparing All Four Limbs of Patients with Parkinson Disease
Authors: Prasad Vineet , Brown Cary
Published: December 2017

Wrist actigraphy is a form of objective sleep measurement that has gained a central role in sleep research and clinical settings. Guidelines for actigraphy recommend placing the monitor on the non-dominant wrist, however, this potentially will be the most involved limb for someone with Parkinson disease, and so alternative placement would be preferred. To-date, there is little published about sleep actigraphy use in Parkinson disease (PD). This study examines the degree of sleep actigraphy score variation in persons with PD when monitors are placed simultaneously on all four limbs. In this study, four participants wore a sleep actigraph on each limb for seven nights. Data from the four actigraphs was compared within each participant to determine the degree of consistency. We found that all of the participants’ sleep efficiency and total sleep time scores were higher in the lower limb than upper limb. There was no notable difference in sleep variables between the dominant arm and non-dominant arm. We concluded that simultaneous actigraphy measurement did not notably vary between dominant and non-dominant arms. However, a discrepancy was seen between upper limbs and lower limbs actigraph scores. Further study is warranted to develop guidelines for sleep actigraphy use in this population.
Effect of Observation Errors on the Timing of the Most Informative Isotope Samples for Event-Based Model Calibration
Authors: Wang Ling , Van Meerveld H. , Seibert Jan
Published: December 2017

Many studies have shown that isotope data are valuable for hydrological model calibration. Recent developments have made isotope analyses more accessible but event sampling still involves significant time and financial costs. Therefore, it is worth to study how many isotope samples are needed for hydrological model calibration and what the most informative sampling times are. In this study, we used synthetic data to investigate how systematic errors in the precipitation, streamflow and the isotopic composition of precipitation affect the information content of stream isotope samples for model calibration. The results show that model performance improves significantly when two or three isotope samples are used for calibration and that the most informative samples are taken on the falling limb. However, when there are errors in the rainfall isotopic composition, rising limb samples are more informative. Data errors caused the most informative samples to be more clustered and to occur earlier in the event compared to error free data. These results provide guidance on when to sample events for model calibration and thus help to reduce the cost and effort in obtaining useful data for model calibration.
Disparities in Non-Fatal Health Outcomes in Pediatric General Trauma Studies
Authors: Ameratunga Shanthi , Ramke Jacqueline , Jackson Nicki , Tin Tin Sandar , Gabbe Belinda
Published: December 2017

When prevention efforts fail, injured children require high-quality health services to support their recovery. Disparities in non-fatal injury outcomes, an indicator of health-care quality, have received minimal attention. We evaluated the extent to which general trauma follow-up studies published in the peer-reviewed scientific literature provide evidence of socially patterned inequities in health, functional or disability outcomes ≥4 weeks after childhood injuries. Using a systematic search, we identified 27 eligible cohort studies from 13 high-income countries. We examined the extent to which the reported health outcomes varied across the PROGRESS criteria: place of residence, race/ethnicity, occupation, gender/sex, religion, socio-economic status, and social capital. The available evidence on differential outcomes is limited as many studies were compromised by selection or retention biases that reduced the participation of children from demographic groups at increased risk of adverse outcomes, or the analyses mainly focused on variations in outcomes by sex. Given the limited research evidence, we recommend greater attention to systematic collection and reporting of non-fatal injury outcomes disaggregated by socio-demographic indicators in order to identify disparities where these exist and inform equity-focused interventions promoting the recovery of injured children.
Study of a Gray Genetic BP Neural Network Model in Fault Monitoring and a Diagnosis System for Dam Safety
Authors: Liu Hai-Feng , Ren Chao , Zheng Zhong-Tian , Liang Yue-Ji , Lu Xian-Jian
Published: December 2017

In this paper, a self-diagnosis system of observer fault with linear and non-linear combination is studied in light of the unstable performance of the automatic monitoring system and the drift of the measured value. The system makes a prediction step ahead of time, compares it with the online measured value, and makes a logical judgment based on the residual error to achieve the purpose of real-time diagnosis of the automatic monitoring system. We developed a novel combined algorithm for dam deformation prediction using two traditional models and one optimization model. The developed algorithm combines two sub-algorithms: the gray model (GM) (1, 1) and the back-propagation neural network (BPNN) model. The GM (1, 1) addresses the effects of the automated monitoring of data from unstable situations; the BPNN model addresses the internal non-linear regularity of the dam displacement. The connection weights and thresholds of the BPNN model can be optimized and determined via the genetic algorithm (GA), which can decrease the uncertainties within the model predictions and improve the prediction accuracy. The results show that the fault self-diagnosis system based on the GM-GA-BP combined model can realize online fault diagnosis better than the traditional single models.
Superoxide Anions and NO in the Paraventricular Nucleus Modulate the Cardiac Sympathetic Afferent Reflex in Obese Rats
Authors: Lu Qing-Bo , Sun Jing , Kang Ying , Sun Hai-Jian , Wang Hui-Shan , Wang Yuan , Zhu Guo-Qing , Zhou Ye-Bo
Published: December 2017

This study was conducted to explore the hypothesis that the endogenous superoxide anions (O2−) and nitric oxide (NO) system of the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) regulates the cardiac sympathetic afferent reflex (CSAR) contributing to sympathoexcitation in obese rats induced by a high-fat diet (42% kcal as fat) for 12 weeks. CSAR was evaluated by monitoring the changes of renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) and the mean arterial pressure (MAP) responses to the epicardial application of capsaicin (CAP) in anaesthetized rats. In obese rats with hypertension (OH group) or without hypertension (OB group), the levels of PVN O2−, angiotensinII (Ang II), Ang II type 1 receptor (AT1R), and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase were elevated, whereas neural NO synthase (nNOS) and NO were significantly reduced. Moreover, CSAR was markedly enhanced, which promoted the elevation of plasma norepinephrine levels. The enhanced CSAR was attenuated by PVN application of the superoxide scavenger polyethylene glycol-superoxide dismutase (PEG-SOD) and the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP), and was strengthened by the superoxide dismutase inhibitor diethyldithiocarbamic acid (DETC) and the nNOS inhibitor N(ω)-propyl-l-arginine hydrochloride (PLA); conversely, there was a smaller CSAR response to PLA or SNP in rats that received a low-fat (12% kcal) diet. Furthermore, PVN pretreatment with the AT1R antagonist losartan or with PEG-SOD, but not SNP, abolished Ang II-induced CSAR enhancement. These findings suggest that obesity alters the PVN O2− and NO system that modulates CSAR and promotes sympathoexcitation.
Diabetes Type 2 and Physical Activity Program: Potential Application of Risk-Engine UKPDS Score in Out-Patient Context
Authors: Petri Cristian , Tantucci Alice , Angeloni Gaia , Bomboletti Giacomo , Mascherini Gabriele , Bini Vittorio , De Angelis Massimiliano , Galanti Giorgio , Stefani Laura
Published: December 2017

Diabetes mellitus Type 2 (DMT2) carries a high risk of cardiovascular (CV) morbidity and mortality. Physical activity (PA) is widely prescribed for this population. However, detection of the eventual risk level and the potential additional increase through physical exercise are of paramount importance in these patients. A model for predicting absolute risk for coronary artery disease in diabetes has been provided in the investigation by the UKPDS (United Kingdom Prospective Diabetes Study). The present study aims to verify the potential feasibility of the UKPDS calculation in an out-patient context, where patients with DMT2 can be selected for an exercise prescription program. All patients investigated were consecutively enrolled in the study at the time of the first clinical check-up in the outpatient center of the University of Perugia-Internal Medicine Department. A group of 101 Caucasian patients (62 males; 39 females; aged 67 ± 2 years) were studied. In agreement with the UKPDS score, gender, age, ethnicity, Body Mass Index, systolic blood pressure and smoking habits were considered. The global mean cardiovascular risk calculated by the UKPDS risk-engine was 25.8% of a first cardiovascular event within 10 years after the initial observation. Despite an absence of symptoms, the risk was globally high and in agreement with current literature. Conclusion: The data are suggestive of a potential large clinical application of UKPDS risk-engine score in an outpatient context, especially in those asymptomatic DMT2 patients potentially enrolled in a physical activity program. This pilot investigation supports the importance for immediate estimation of cardiovascular risk in DMT2 subjects to implement basic therapeutic strategies such as physical activity.