bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translocación de la urraca-hermosa cara negra Calocitta colliei (Passeriformes: Corvidae) a Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, México
Authors: Rodríguez-Ruíz Erick R. , Hernández-Jasso Roberto E. , Estrada-Drouaillet Benigno , Treviño-Carreón Jacinto , Cumpián-Medellín J. Iván , Carbajal López José A. , Rangel-Lucio José A.
Published: November 2017

Aunque la expansión del área de distribución de las especies ocurre naturalmente, la translocación ejercida por el humano puede resultar en una amenaza para otras especies. En este estudio hacemos referencia a los primeros registros de Calocitta colliei en Ciudad Victoria, Tamaulipas, noreste de México. La presencia de esta especie podría obedecer al traslado en cautiverio, liberación o escape y permanencia en la zona. Los registros fueron obtenidos de forma ocasional del 2009 al 2015. La incidencia de individuos de C. colliei en el área urbana hace suponer que existe una asociación positiva de tipo comensal con el humano, donde la especie se adapta al área urbana local, preferentemente en áreas de perturbación intermedia, entre densidad humana y área verde urbana con presencia de árboles frutales exóticos. Esto puede funcionar como una barrera ecológica que la aísla del entorno natural. Sugerimos medidas de prevención a escala local, además de generar información base sobre la distribución de C. colliei para evaluar sus efectos sobre especies nativas a corto plazo (competencia, desplazamiento y otras interacciones ecológicas), y preferencias del hábitat dentro de áreas urbanas con el fin de diseñar planes de manejo y programas de educación ambiental en la región.
Nuevos registros de aves con anormalidad pigmentaria en México y propuesta de clave dicotómica para la identificación de casos
Authors: Rodríguez-Ruíz Erick R. , Poot-Poot Wilberth A. , Ruíz-Salazar Régulo , Treviño-Carreón Jacinto
Published: November 2017

Las anormalidades pigmentarias en aves han adquirido mayor importancia e interés entre la comunidad ornitológica; sin em- bargo, resulta necesario contar con una herramienta de diagnóstico apropiada que brinde los criterios para lograr un sistema de identificación entre los distintos tipos de anormalidades. Para ello, proponemos una clave dicotómica para su identificación en campo con base en terminología obtenida de literatura especializada y una asociación de caracteres fenotípicos de aves. También, reportamos la presencia de anormalidades pigmentarias en la coloración corporal y de plumaje de cinco especies de aves que han sido observadas de forma ocasional en áreas perturbadas por impacto antropogénico en Tamaulipas, México: melanismo en la tortolita mexicana (Columbina inca), aberración ino en la paloma turca (Streptopelia decaocto), aberración ino en el correcaminos norteño (Geococcyx californianus), leucismo parcial en el pijuy (Crotophaga sulcirostris) y leucismo parcial en el tordo de ojo rojo (Molothrus aeneus). Las evidencias de casos actuales sugieren un aparente aumento de especies en vida libre con variación en la pigmentación. Las causas que lo provocan aún son discutibles, por lo cual, relacionar qué factores naturales o artificiales están involucrados en estos padecimientos podrá contribuir a determinar su origen y detectar problemas a nivel de poblaciones. La clave dicotómica propuesta en la identificación de anormalidades pigmentarias puede ser una herramienta continua en contextos modernos, si se unifica la terminología empleada.
Variables del microhábitat que influyen en la grulla cubana (Grus canadensis nesiotes) para seleccionar el sitio de anidación en un humedal de Cuba
Authors: Ferrer-Sánchez Yarelys , Plasencia Vázquez Alexis Herminio , Abasolo-Pacheco Fernando , Ruiz Companioni Idael
Published: November 2017

La grulla cubana (Grus canadensis nesiotes), subespecie endémica de Cuba, está amenazada; se estiman tan sólo 550 individuos. La facilitación de zonas de nidificación quizá incrementaría el éxito reproductivo de la subespecie. Sin embargo, el poco conocimiento sobre los factores determinantes de la selección del área de nidificación limita cualquier intento de manejo. Aquí, caracterizamos la estructura de la vegetación alrededor de cuatro nidos y en puntos dentro del Gran Humedal del Norte de Ciego de Ávila, región central de Cuba. Medimos las variables estructurales de la vegetación que pudieran determinar la selección del microhábitat de nidificación. Hicimos 20 parcelas alrededor de los nidos y en cuatro puntos a 100 m de cada nido, en las que se midieron: altura, cobertura a 30 y a 100 cm del suelo y distancia entre hierbas (método vecino más cercano). Comparamos los datos entre nidos y puntos y calculamos un índice de selección. Las áreas alrededor de los nidos mostraron diferencias para la altura, cobertura y distancia entre hierbas. Solamente la cobertura 30 cm fue homogénea. Las distancias entre hierbas con mayor frecuencia estuvieron entre 5 y 10 cm. La altura, cobertura a 100 cm y la distancia entre hierbas forman parte del patrón de selección del sitio de nidificación de la grulla cubana en este humedal.
Cuidado materno y estabilidad térmica durante la anidación en Phaethornis longirostris (ermitaño cola larga)
Authors: Barba-Bedolla Selene Asiul , Mendoza-Cuenca Luis
Published: November 2017

En aves el cuidado parental durante la anidación involucra una gran inversión de energía para mantener la estabilidad térmica (homeotermia) de la progenie. Conservar la homotermia y mantener alta la temperatura en el nido se favorece por selección, al estar relacionado positivamente con el éxito de eclosión de los huevos, la sobrevivencia de los polluelos y con ello en el éxito reproductivo de los padres. En los colibríes, caracterizados por sus altos requerimientos metabólicos y un cuidado exclusivamente materno de la progenie, es factible pensar que las hembras optimizan el tiempo y energía dedicados a diferentes conductas relacionadas con el cuidado parental durante la anidación, y en particular aquellos que mantienen la homotermia del nido. En este estudio evaluamos el efecto de algunas conductas de cuidado materno en el ambiente térmico de la progenie de un nido del colibrí ermitaño cola larga (Phaethornis longirostris). Para ello utilizamos un termopar ultradelgado conectado a un termómetro electrónico con el que registramos la temperatura dentro de un nido de esta especie. Observamos que la hembra realiza salidas de forrajeo muy prolongadas, pero esto no modificó la estabilidad térmica dentro del nido, el cual mantuvo su variación en menos de 1ºC. Esto nos permite sugerir que la hembra que atendía el nido efectivamente optimizó sus conductas de cuidado parental (i.e. incubación y forrajeo), a fin de minimizar la oscilación térmica de la progenie. Sin embargo, aún es necesario evaluar la contribución de otras decisiones de la hembra relacionadas con la conducta de anidación: la forma, materiales de construcción y elección del sitio de anidación, en la homeotermia del nido.
Pertinencia del uso de las características espectrales del hábitat como predictor de la estructura en comunidades de aves de un humedal de Cuba
Authors: Ferrer-Sánchez Yarelys , Plasencia Vazquez Alexis Herminio , Abasolo-Pacheco Fernando , Denis Ávila Dennis , Ruiz Companioni Idael
Published: November 2017

La teledetección es una herramienta emergente en ecología, pero de uso limitado en países neotropicales. En este estudio probamos la relación entre las variables de las comunidades de aves y variables espectrales en un humedal de Cuba. Determinamos la composición y estructura de la ornitofauna en tres localidades del Gran Humedal del Norte de Ciego de Ávila y su relación con las variables espectrales. Realizamos 78 transectos y determinamos la abundancia relativa, riqueza, el índice de Brillouin, de Simpson y la composición en gremios. Sobre una imagen satelital del Landsat 7 medimos los índices de humedad, verdor, diversidad de arbustos vivos, índice normalizado de diferencia de agua y ndvi. Realizamos análisis multivariados para estimar la similitud entre formaciones vegetales a partir de variables comunitarias y espectrales. Para probar si existía correlación entre las variables realizamos una prueba de Mantel y una correlación entre los valores del primer componente de los Análisis de Componentes Principales a partir de las variables comunitarias y espectrales. Contabilizamos 1,298 aves pertenecientes a 73 especies, 33 familias y14 órdenes. Cada formación vegetal tuvo una combinación propia de sus índices espectrales. La vegetación costera se diferenció del resto de las formaciones vegetales, y la demás vegetación tuvo superposición. No encontramos una relación significativa entre las variables comunitarias de las aves y espectrales. Esto puede deberse a una selección de índices poco informativos. Aun así, el método puede ser eficiente como complemento para el monitoreo de la biodiversidad y válido como recurso metodológico con fines de conservación.
Ulna de Aquila chrysaetos hallada en un entierro ceremonial del periodo Formativo Medio en Mascota, Jalisco, México
Authors: Cupul-Magaña Fabio Germán , B. Mountjoy Joseph , Rhodes Jill A.
Published: November 2017

La identificación y el análisis de los restos de aves de los sitios arqueológicos pueden proporcionar información sobre qué significaron y cómo fueron usados. En el México prehispánico las aves sirvieron como alimento, materia prima para la elaboración de herramientas y en rituales religiosos. En esta nota comentamos el hallazgo de la ulna izquierda de un águila real adulta, Aquila chrysaetos, en el yacimiento arqueológico de Los Tanques (ca. 800 a.C.) en Mascota, Jalisco, México. La ulna  se encontró dentro del bulto bien envuelto del entierro de un hombre joven de entre 19 y 25 años de edad. Su presencia en el entierro indica el alto estatus social del individuo y es parte de un código ritual mortuorio.
Dieta de la lechuza de campanario (Tyto alba) en Ocoyoacac, Estado de México
Authors: González-Calderón Alvaro
Published: November 2017

Estudié los hábitos alimenticios de la lechuza de campanario (Tyto alba Strigiformes) en el municipio de Ocoyoacac (Estado de México) en 2012. Describí la dieta de esta rapaz a partir del análisis de los restos no digeridos de 732 egagrópilas colectadas. Empleé los índices de riqueza, dominancia y diversidad de Margalef, Simpson, Shannon-Wiener y Pielou, obtuve la diversidad de presas consumidas. Mediante el índice de nicho trófico de Levins estandarizado evalué la amplitud trófica de esta rapaz y estimé la correlación entre las dimensiones de las egagrópilas con el número de presas consumidas. Los mamíferos pequeños representaron la categoría con mayor frecuencia de depredación, seguida de artrópodos y aves. La dominancia de mamíferos pequeños resultó relativamente baja (λ = 0.20). La especie con mayor frecuencia de consumo fue Rattus rattus, seguida de cuatro especies de roedores con una frecuencia de consumo abundante (Microtus mexicanus, Reithrodontomys microdon, R. megalotis y Peromyscus maniculatus). El valor del índice Shannon-Wiener (H’ = 1.85), y del índice de nicho trófico de Levins estandarizado (Bst = 0.42) mostraron una uniformidad relativamente baja y tendencia selectiva en el consumo de mamíferos pequeños. En la dieta de esta rapaz fue relevante el consumo de artrópodos en los que se incluyeron arácnidos. Así mismo observé selectividad en el consumo de aves. Las correlaciones significativas entre las dimensiones de las egagrópilas con el número de presas consumidas fueron discutidas. Los resultados sugieren que la lechuza de campanario tiene un papel importante en el control biológico de roedores exóticos y nativos de la región.
Presencia y anidamiento del colibrí cabeza roja Calypte anna en la Comarca Lagunera (Durango y Coahuila), México
Authors: Valdés-Perezgasga Francisco
Published: November 2017

El área de distribución del colibrí cabeza roja (Calypte anna) se encuentra en la costa occidental de los Estados Unidos de América, la costa sur de Columbia Británica en Canadá y de la costa norte de Baja California, y se desplaza hacia Arizona y la parte noroccidental del estado de Sonora. En general su territorio de invierno no está bien definido y se reconoce su presencia irruptiva durante la temporada migratoria en sitios más al este como la costa tejana del Golfo de México y algunos sitios del este de los Estados Unidos y del norte de México. En la Zona Metropolitana de La Laguna (estados de Durango y Coahuila) es el colibrí urbano más común aun cuando su reproducción en el altiplano mexicano no se ha registrado hasta ahora. En este sitio se le encuentra durante todo el año. Describo los registros realizados en esta zona con un reporte de anidación. Estos registros sugieren una distribución más amplia de la comúnmente aceptada para el colibrí de cabeza roja en México.
Aves del Puerto Interior Turístico Jocotepec, en el Lago de Chapala, Jalisco, México
Authors: Carlo Cuevas J. , Íñiguez-Dávalos Luis Ignacio
Published: November 2017

El Lago de Chapala es el más grande de México, es un sitio de interés para la conservación biológica, declarado sitio Ramsar, además de ser reconocido como un Área de Importancia para la Conservación de las Aves (AICA 58). Los humedales de Jalisco son de gran importancia para la conservación de las aves; sin embargo, existen pocos estudios, específicamente sobre las aves del Lago de Chapala. En este estudio realizamos el inventario de la comunidad de aves del Puerto Interior Turístico Jocotepec, un parque urbano de la ribera de Chapala. Realizamos el estudio de abril de 2015 a marzo de 2016. Registramos 100 especies de aves pertenecientes a 14 órdenes y 34 familias. El 69% de las aves son residentes, 30% son visitantes de invierno y 1% transitorias. Así mismo, comparamos la riqueza y composición encontrada con otros estudios realizados en el estado de Jalisco. Resalta la presencia de Rallus longirostris, una especie residente y endémica en el centro-occidente de México que presenta los valores de vulnerabilidad más altos. Destacamos la importancia biológica del parque urbano y sugerimos incrementar el número de estudios sobre las aves del Lago de Chapala.
ASPEK-ASPEK SYARIAH DALAM ASURANSI SYARIAH
Authors: Tho’in Muhammad , Anik Anik
Published: November 2017

This study is to analyze aspects of sharia in Islamic insurance. Theories related to this study include about Ijara, Ijara financing, DSN-MUI fatwa, Ijara financing application. This study is qualitative descriptive. Data collection methods used in this research is the study of literature. The results showed that Takaful insurance aspect is clear then can be applied in the system of Islamic insurance. Takaful is a system where the participants / members / participants donate or donate part or all of the contribution that will be used to pay claims, in case of disaster experienced by most participants/members/participants. The role of the company here is limited to the operational management of insurance companies and investment funds / contributions received or transferred to the company.Keywords: Aspects of Sharia in the Takaful and Insurance Non-Sharia
WAKAF TUNAI PERSPEKTIF SYARIAH
Authors: Tho’in Muhammad , Prastiwi Iin Emy
Published: November 2017

The development of waqf implementation is now popular with the "cash waqf". Endowments in cash (cash waqf / waqf al nuqud) are waqf that a person, group of persons or institution or legal entity in the form of cash. This study aims to discuss how the cash waqf basis in sharia perspective.Waqf system is a concept that is not clearly and expressly mentioned in the Qur'an and hadith. Unlike the zakat that is clearly mentioned in the Qur'an. Scholarly opinion regarding waqf objects show that the terms of wakaf (must be objects, useful, not disposable, not haram substance and should belong to wakif perfectly). Cash waqf is not supported by the hadith in particular, and using verses from the Al Qur’an and Hadits is general. Therefore, the determination of the terms of waqf objects including ijtihadi region.Keywords: Cash waqf, Al Qur’an, Hadits
ANALISIS RISIKO INVESTASI DEPOSITO MUDHARABAH (Studi pada Bank Syariah Mandiri Tahun 2013-2015)
Authors: Mustofa Ulul Azmi , Prastiwi Iin Emy
Published: November 2017

Value at Risk  is defined as an estimate of the maximum  loss of an investment over a given period and a given confidence level. The  purposes of this research is to understand the size of financial risk and net return of mudharabah deposit on Islamic  bank using Value at Risk (VaR) approach. Objects of this research is quarterly financial report of Bank Syariah Mandiri, for three years, 2013-2015. VaR analysis shows that  investment mudaraba deposits at Bank Syariah Mandiri as measured by VaR approach to investment risk (VaRmean) in 2013 amounted to 0.30%, and a net return of 0.54%, in 2014 the mean VaR 0.18%, and the net return 0.62%, in 2015 the mean VaR of 0.25%, and a net return of 0.55%. Keywords : Value at Risk ( VaR ), risk, net return, mudharabah deposit
ANALISA PENGARUH MOTIVASI KERJA TERHADAP PRESTASI KERJA DOSEN PADA SEKOLAH TINGGI ILMU EKONOMI AAS
Authors: Utami Wikan Budi
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between work motivation with the performance of lecturer at the College of Economics AAS (STIE-AAS). The motivation factor used in this research is based on the five human needs according to Maslow, namely physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, self-esteem needs, and self-actualization needs. The population in this study are lecturers STIE-AAS who actively teach at the time this research is done. This research was conducted in the even semester of academic year 2015/2016 in March-April 2016. The technique of determining the sample in this study is to use purposive sampling. The sample in this research is: STIE-AAS lecturer who in the even semester of Academic Year 2015/2016 actively teaches. The type of instrument used in this study, namely questionnaires. To test whether the list of questionnaires that are made, valid (valid) and reliable (reliable) then used two test tools of the test validity and reliability test. This t test is used to examine the influence of each independent variable (physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, self-esteem needs, and self-actualization needs) to the dependent variable (STIE-AAS lecturer work achievement). The statistical test F aims to examine the effects of all independent or independent variables (physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, self-esteem needs, and self-actualization needs) together with dependent or dependent variables (STIE-AAS lecturer work achievement). This test is done by SPSS 17. Test R2 (Coefficient of determination) is done to find out how much influence the variable of physiological needs, the need of sense of security, social needs, self-esteem needs, and self-actualization needs towards the work performance variable of STIE-AAS lecturer. From the result of t test, it is known that the need for security and self-esteem need to be partially significant to the performance of STIE-AAS lecturers. While the physiological needs, social needs and self-actualization needs no significant effect on the performance of lecturers STIE-AAS. From the results of F test, it is known that physiological needs, safety needs, social needs, self-esteem needs, and self-actualization needs simultaneously have a significant effect on the performance of STIE-AAS lecturers. From result of test of R2 obtained coefficient value of determination equal to 0,639 which mean 63,9% achievement of lecturer work influenced by factors which resear in this research.
Berlin’s Own Rip Van Winkle: The Washington Irving Connection in Wolfgang Becker’s Good Bye, Lenin!
Authors: Haspel Paul
Published: November 2017

This study examines the links between Washington Irving’s short story “Rip Van Winkle” (1819) and Wolfgang Becker’s film Good Bye, Lenin! (2003). Both works describe a matriarchal family in which a character goes through a long period of sleep that begins during one political order and ends during another. As “Rip Van Winkle” was itself originally inspired by German folklore, the connection between “Rip Van Winkle” and Good Bye, Lenin! provides evidence of how themes and motifs within important texts can flow back and forth between and among different societies, influencing one another in turn.
Synthesis, Characterizations and Multifunctional Activities of New Thiourea-Based Non-Ionic Surfactants
Authors: Ullah Imdad , Khan Musharaf , Shah Afzal , Khan Shahan Zeb
Published: November 2017

Six new thiourea-based non-ionic surfactants were prepared from easily existing raw resources in good yield name 1-sec-butyl-3-dodecanoylthiourea, 1-dodecanoyl-3-phenylthiourea, 1,1-dibutyl-3-dodecanoylthiourea, 3-dodecanoyl-1, 1-diphenylthiourea, 1-cyclohexyl-3-dodecanoylthiourea and 1-butyl-3-dodecanoylthiourea. The structural chemistry of these compounds was studied by multinuclear magnetic resonance (1H, 13C), Infrared spectroscopy and UV-Visible spectrophotometry techniques. Their solubility varies according to temperature. They show a low solubility, which increases with the temperature of the water. However, they are not stable. The are soluble in organic solvent like ethanol. These molecules possess a low critical micelle concentration and due to this it shows that they are moderately hydrophobic. These molecules were studied regarding their antimicrobial activities and their antifungal and antibacterial efficiency was tested against five microoganism strains. In all cases, the new compounds show a significant inhibition growth against the tested five bacterial and fungal strains. Due to these behaviors they can be used as future candidates in cleaning as well as in agriculture features. The corrosion inhibition behavior was also studied using chromium and aluminum metals.
Moonlighting Proteins – Nature's Swiss Army Knives
Authors: Jeffery Constance J.
Published: November 2017

The human body is a complex biological machine with billions of cells and vast numbers of biochemical processes – but our genome only contains 22,000 protein-encoding genes. Moonlighting proteins provide one way to increase the number of cellular activities. Moonlighting proteins exhibit more than one physiologically relevant biochemical or biophysical function within one polypeptide chain. Already more than 300 moonlighting proteins have been identified, and they include a diverse set of proteins with a large variety of functions. This article discusses examples of moonlighting proteins, how one protein structure can perform two different functions, and how the multiple functions can be regulated. In addition to learning more about what our proteins do and how they work together in complex multilayered interaction networks and processes in our bodies, the study of moonlighting proteins can inform future synthetic biology projects in making proteins that perform new functions and new combinations of functions, for example, for synthesising new materials, delivering drugs into cells, and in bioremediation.
Varieties of non-obvious meaning in CL and CADS: from ‘hindsight post-dictability’ to sweet serendipity
Authors: Partington Alan
Published: November 2017

In this paper, I want to examine the special relevance of (non)obviousness in corpus linguistics through drawing on case studies. The research discussion is divided into two parts. The first is an examination of (non)obviousness at the micro-level, that is, in lexico-grammatical analyses, whilst the second looks at the more macro-level of (non)obviousness on the plane of discourse. In the final sections, I will examine various types of non-obvious meaning one can come across in Corpus-assisted Discourse Studies (CADS), which range from: ‘I knew that all along (now)’ to ‘that's interesting’ to ‘I sensed that but didn't know why’ (intuitive impressions and corpus-assisted explanations) to ‘I never even knew I never knew that’ (serendipity or ‘non-obvious non-obviousness’, analogous to ‘unknown unknowns’).
‘Keep out of reach of children!’ Introducing the Corpus of Product Information (CoPI) and its potential for corpus-based genre teaching
Authors: Puga Karin , Götz Sandra
Published: November 2017

In this paper, we introduce the language-pedagogic potential of the Corpus of Product Information (CoPI). The corpus is XML-annotated and contains about 100,000 words of product descriptions of health products, cleaning supplies and products for beauty and personal care, divided into three textual moves: (1) overview, (2) directions and (3) warnings. First, we describe the data collection, corpus design and annotation scheme of the corpus, and then we present the findings of an analysis of CoPI's most frequent words, clusters and its type–token ratio. Finally, we show its potential for language-pedagogic purposes and suggest how the CoPI analyses can be used for paper- and computer-based DDL activities that foster corpus-based genre teaching in the advanced EFL classroom. We conclude this paper by summarising the outcomes of a first case study we conducted to test these activities with advanced learners of English.
Nostradamus à l’école de l'expérience
Authors: Dupèbe Jean
Published: November 2017

Cette étude tente de montrer, documents à l'appui, que Nostradamus ne fut pas docteur de Montpellier et que, formé dès sa jeunesse au métier d'apothicaire, il trouva en Jules-César Scaliger, dans la ville d'Agen, un maître qui l'initia aux secrets de la nature et aux mystères de la philosophie platonicienne de Marsile Ficin. Il reçut le bonnet doctoral on ne sait à quelle date, ni dans quelle École de médecine. Mais il resta avec succès fidèle à la tradition expérimentale de la Provence et de l'Italie.
Poetic Deictics and Extra-Textual Reference (Mallarmé, Scève, Ronsard, Du Bellay)
Authors: Helgeson James
Published: November 2017

This study considers the effects of deictics, which are among the expressions called, in recent linguistics, and particularly cognitive pragmatics, ‘procedural’ expressions, in poetic expression in the first person. It examines a variety of examples drawn primarily from the early modern period (Scève, Ronsard, Du Bellay, Muret's and Belleau's commentaries on Ronsard), but with several modern points of comparison (Keats, Mallarmé). The article studies, in particular, the question of extra-textual reference in poetry and poetic commentary, arguing against an anachronistic understanding (based in nineteenth- and twentieth-century ideas about authorship) of the forms of early modern poetic reference and of the varieties of first-person action early modern poetry can instantiate.
Jaco Hoffman and Katrien Pype (eds.) (2016). Ageing in Sub-Saharan Africa. Spaces and Practices of Care. Bristol: Policy Press, 248 pp. ISBN 978 1 4473 2525 3 (hardback)
Authors: Wilińska Monika
Published: November 2017

Not Available.
Editorial: Nordic research on vocational education and training
Authors: Andersson Per , Nyström Sofia
Published: November 2017

No abstract available.
Multivariate Analyses of Balance Test Performance, Vestibular Thresholds, and Age
Authors: Karmali Faisal , Bermúdez Rey María Carolina , Clark Torin K. , Wang Wei , Merfeld Daniel M.
Published: November 2017

We previously published vestibular perceptual thresholds and performance in the Modified Romberg Test of Standing Balance in 105 healthy humans ranging from ages 18 to 80 (1). Self-motion thresholds in the dark included roll tilt about an earth-horizontal axis at 0.2 and 1 Hz, yaw rotation about an earth-vertical axis at 1 Hz, y-translation (interaural/lateral) at 1 Hz, and z-translation (vertical) at 1 Hz. In this study, we focus on multiple variable analyses not reported in the earlier study. Specifically, we investigate correlations (1) among the five thresholds measured and (2) between thresholds, age, and the chance of failing condition 4 of the balance test, which increases vestibular reliance by having subjects stand on foam with eyes closed. We found moderate correlations (0.30–0.51) between vestibular thresholds for different motions, both before and after using our published aging regression to remove age effects. We found that lower or higher thresholds across all threshold measures are an individual trait that account for about 60% of the variation in the population. This can be further distributed into two components with about 20% of the variation explained by aging and 40% of variation explained by a single principal component that includes similar contributions from all threshold measures. When only roll tilt 0.2 Hz thresholds and age were analyzed together, we found that the chance of failing condition 4 depends significantly on both (p = 0.006 andp = 0.013, respectively). An analysis incorporating more variables found that the chance of failing condition 4 depended significantly only on roll tilt 0.2 Hz thresholds (p = 0.046) and not age (p = 0.10), sex nor any of the other four threshold measures, suggesting that some of the age effect might be captured by the fact that vestibular thresholds increase with age. For example, at 60 years of age, the chance of failing is roughly 5% for the lowest roll tilt thresholds in our population, but this increases to 80% for the highest roll tilt thresholds. These findings demonstrate the importance of roll tilt vestibular cues for balance, even in individuals reporting no vestibular symptoms and with no evidence of vestibular dysfunction.
The Vascular Factor Plays the Main Role in the Cause of Pain in Men with Chronic Prostatitis and Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: The Results of Clinical Trial on Thermobalancing Therapy
Authors: Allen Simon
Published: November 2017

Chronic pain in patients with chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), NIH category III is difficult to treat without understanding its cause. The main symptom of chronic prostatitis is pain. In this study, we would like to explain the origin of pain in men with CP/CPPS and its therapy. Forty-five patients with CP/CPPS have received thermobalancing therapy (TT) enabled by Dr Allen’s therapeutic device (DATD) for six months as mono-therapy. The control group comprised 45 men with CP/CPPS did not receive TT. Before and after six months the National Institute of Health Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index (NIH-CPSI) scores, prostatic volume (PV) by ultrasound measurement and uroflowmetry (Qmax) were compared between the groups. Baseline characteristics have shown no difference. After TT, significant improvements in pain score (p < 0.001), quality of life index (QoL) (p < 0.001), decrease of PV (p < 0.001), and increase Qmax (p < 0.001) were determined. There were not noteworthy changes in the control group. Chronic pain due to CP/CPPS happens as a consequence and challenges at the capillary level, namely pathological capillary activity. In response to initial triggers—such as inflammation, cold, psychological and other factors—constriction and spontaneous expansion of capillaries follows, creating a continuous secondary trigger—i.e., the micro-focus of hypothermia—which in turn provokes expansion of capillaries. The additional tissue due to vascular changes into the prostate increases pressure on nociceptors causing pain. TT relieves chronic pelvic pain by eliminating the lasting focus of hypothermia in the affected prostate tissue.
An Extended System Frequency Response Model Considering Wind Power Participation in Frequency Regulation
Authors: Tang Yi , Dai Jianfeng , Ning Jia , Dang Jie , Li Yan , Tian Xinshou
Published: November 2017

With increasing penetration of wind power into the power system, wind power participation in frequency regulation is regarded as a beneficial strategy to improve the dynamic frequency response characteristics of power systems. The traditional power system frequency response (SFR) model, which only includes synchronous generators, is no longer suitable for power systems with high penetrated wind power. An extended SFR model, based on the reduced-order model of wind turbine generator (WTG) and the traditional SFR model, is presented in this paper. In the extended SFR model, the reduced-order model of WTG with combined frequency control is deduced by employing small signal analysis theory. Afterwards, the stability analysis of a closed-loop control system for the extended SFR model is carried out. Time-domain simulations using a test system are performed to validate the effectiveness of the extended SFR model; this model can provide a simpler, clearer and faster way to analyze the dynamic frequency response characteristic for a high-wind integrated power systems. The impact of additional frequency control parameters and wind speed disturbances on the system dynamic frequency response characteristics are investigated.
Silicon-Carbon Composite Electrode Materials Prepared by Pyrolysis of a Mixture of Manila Hemp, Silicon Powder, and Flake Artificial Graphite for Lithium Batteries
Authors: Si Qin , Mori Daisuke , Takeda Yasuo , Yamamoto Osamu , Imanishi Nobuyuki
Published: November 2017

A high performance lithium anode is a key component for high energy density lithium batteries. Silicon based lithium anode materials are attractive for the lithium anode due to their high theoretical capacity. However, a severe problem is the huge volume change that occurs during cycling, resulting in a poor capacity retention. We have developed a silicon based anode that disperses silicon particles on a carbon paper made from Manila hemp. The composite silicon electrode materials showed a high initial coulombic efficiency of 83%. The initial capacity of 566 mAh g−1 based on the total weight of the electrode was retained at 491 mAh g−1 after 70 cycles at the charge and discharge rate of 100 mA g−1 and at room temperature.
Malicious Cognitive User Identification Algorithm in Centralized Spectrum Sensing System
Authors: Zhang Jingbo , Cai Lili , Zhang Shufang
Published: November 2017

Collaborative spectral sensing can fuse the perceived results of multiple cognitive users, and thus will improve the accuracy of perceived results. However, the multi-source features of the perceived results result in security problems in the system. When there is a high probability of a malicious user attack, the traditional algorithm can correctly identify the malicious users. However, when the probability of attack by malicious users is reduced, it is almost impossible to use the traditional algorithm to correctly distinguish between honest users and malicious users, which greatly reduces the perceived performance. To address the problem above, based on the β function and the feedback iteration mathematical method, this paper proposes a malicious user identification algorithm under multi-channel cooperative conditions (β-MIAMC), which involves comprehensively assessing the cognitive user’s performance on multiple sub-channels to identify the malicious user. Simulation results show under the same attack probability, compared with the traditional algorithm, the β-MIAMC algorithm can more accurately identify the malicious users, reducing the false alarm probability of malicious users by more than 20%. When the attack probability is greater than 7%, the proposed algorithm can identify the malicious users with 100% certainty.
Amphibian and Avian Karyotype Evolution: Insights from Lampbrush Chromosome Studies
Authors: Zlotina Anna , Dedukh Dmitry , Krasikova Alla
Published: November 2017

Amphibian and bird karyotypes typically have a complex organization, which makes them difficult for standard cytogenetic analysis. That is, amphibian chromosomes are generally large, enriched with repetitive elements, and characterized by the absence of informative banding patterns. The majority of avian karyotypes comprise a small number of relatively large macrochromosomes and numerous tiny morphologically undistinguishable microchromosomes. A good progress in investigation of amphibian and avian chromosome evolution became possible with the usage of giant lampbrush chromosomes typical for growing oocytes. Due to the giant size, peculiarities of organization and enrichment with cytological markers, lampbrush chromosomes can serve as an opportune model for comprehensive high-resolution cytogenetic and cytological investigations. Here, we review the main findings on chromosome evolution in amphibians and birds that were obtained using lampbrush chromosomes. In particular, we discuss the data on evolutionary chromosomal rearrangements, accumulation of polymorphisms, evolution of sex chromosomes as well as chromosomal changes during clonal reproduction of interspecies hybrids.
Implementation of Tsunami Evacuation Maps at Setubal Municipality, Portugal
Authors: Santos Angela , Fonseca Nuno , Queirós Margarida , Zêzere José , Bucho José
Published: November 2017

The Setubal municipality, Portugal, has diversified land use along its coastline (mostly located in a low-lying area): on the west there are beaches; the centre is dominated by a densely populated downtown; and the east has an important industrial area. Although the seismic activity in mainland Portugal is moderate, considering the variety of exposed elements, the objectives of this study are to present and discuss the implementation of tsunami evacuation maps at Setubal municipality. Thus, tsunami numerical modelling was carried out by considering the 1969 tsunami and the 1755 tsunami scenarios. The model results show that the first tsunami wave arrived within 30–40 min of the earthquake. The inundation depth was up to 9 m at the beaches, 4.9 m downtown, and 4.0 m in the industrial area. These velocities are too dangerous if beach users are caught by the tsunami waves, even in a moderate scenario. Therefore, coastal communities must evacuate the inundated zones to high ground before the arrival of the first tsunami wave. For this reason, tsunami evacuation maps were created, indicating the quickest and safest routes to the meeting points, located on high ground and outside of the inundation zones.
Preparation and Bioactivity Assessment of Chitosan-1-Acetic Acid-5-Flurouracil Conjugates as Cancer Prodrugs
Authors: Mohammed Mohsin , Hussain Kameran , Haj Nadia
Published: November 2017

5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a specific anti-cancer agent that is generally used to treat gastrointestinal, colorectal, and breast cancer. In this work, chitosan (CS) was extracted from local fish scales using an established method. 5-FU was then converted to 1-acetic acid-5-fluorouracil (FUAC) and reacted with this CS to prepare chitosan-1-acetic acid-5-fluorouracil (CS-FUAC) conjugates as a colon-specific prodrug. All compounds were characterized by Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), and UV-visible spectroscopy. The synthesized compound was subjected to a chemical stability study in phosphate buffer (0.2 M, pH 7.4) and in KCl/HCl buffer (0.2 M, pH 1.2) at different time intervals (0–240 min) and incubation at 37 °C. This revealed a significantly greater stability and a longer half-life for the CS-FUAC than for FUAC. Hemolytic activity results indicated a much lower toxicity for CS-FUAC than for 5-FU and supported consideration of CS-FUAC for further biological screening and application trials. The percentage of FUAC in the conjugates was determined by subjecting the prodrug to treatment in basic media to hydrolyze the amide bond, followed by absorbency measurements at 273 nm. The cytotoxicity studies of the conjugates were also evaluated on human colorectal cancer cell line (HT-29), which showed that the conjugates are more cytotoxic than the free drug. Therefore, CS-FUAC conjugates can be considered to represent potential colon-specific drug delivery agents, with minimal undesirable side effects, for colon cancer therapy.
Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) to Enhance Berberine Absorption: An In Vivo Pharmacokinetic Study
Authors: Sut Stefania , Faggian Marta , Baldan Valeria , Poloniato Gabriele , Castagliuolo Ignazio , Grabnar Iztok , Perissutti Beatrice , Brun Paola , Maggi Filippo , Voinovich Dario , Peron Gregorio , Dall’Acqua Stefano
Published: November 2017

In the present study results related to the in vivo administration of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES)-solubilized berberine are reported for the first time. NADES are mixtures of small natural compounds having a melting point significantly lower than that of any individual component. Such solvents have gained much attention of the scientific community in the green chemistry area, being considered useful alternatives to common organic solvents. NADES can be used also as administration vehicles, and this can be attractive for nutraceutical products when eutectics are formed with food grade ingredients. In this work, different NADES were prepared using mainly food grade constituents and were tested as solvents for the alkaloid berberine. Three selected NADES/berberine solutions and an aqueous suspension were orally administered to mice with in dose of 50 mg/Kg. Blood levels of berberine were measured by a LC-MS/MS method. The pharmacokinetic analysis revealed a 2–20 fold increase in blood concentration of NADES/berberine with significant changes in pharmacokinetic profile. Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents may thus be considered attractive solubilizing agents and may also play a role in the increase of absorption of poorly bioavailable natural products such as berberine.
Magnetic Nanoparticle-Assisted Tunable Optical Patterns from Spherical Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Bragg Reflectors
Authors: Lin Yali , Yang Yujie , Shan Yuwei , Gong Lingli , Chen Jingzhi , Li Sensen , Chen Lujian
Published: November 2017

Cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) exhibit selective Bragg reflections of circularly polarized (CP) light owing to their spontaneous self-assembly abilities into periodic helical structures. Photonic cross-communication patterns could be generated toward potential security applications by spherical cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) structures. To endow these optical patterns with tunability, we fabricated spherical CLC Bragg reflectors in the shape of microshells by glass-capillary microfluidics. Water-soluble magnetofluid with Fe3O4 nanoparticles incorporated in the inner aqueous core of CLC shells is responsible for the non-invasive transportable capability. With the aid of an external magnetic field, the reflection interactions between neighboring microshells and microdroplets were identified by varying the mutual distance in a group of magnetically transportable and unmovable spherical CLC structures. The temperature-dependent optical reflection patterns were investigated in close-packed hexagonal arrangements of seven CLC microdroplets and microshells with inverse helicity handedness. Moreover, we demonstrated that the magnetic field-assisted assembly of microshells array into geometric figures of uppercase English letters “L” and “C” was successfully achieved. We hope that these findings can provide good application prospects for security pattern designs.
Transferability of the Mediterranean Diet to Non-Mediterranean Countries. What Is and What Is Not the Mediterranean Diet
Authors: Martínez-González Miguel , Hershey Maria , Zazpe Itziar , Trichopoulou Antonia
Published: November 2017

Substantial evidence has verified the Mediterranean diet’s (MedDiet) nutritional adequacy, long-term sustainability, and effectiveness for preventing hard clinical events from cardiovascular disease (CVD), as well as increasing longevity. This article includes a cumulative meta-analysis of prospective studies supporting a strong inverse association between closer adherence to the MedDiet and the incidence of hard clinical events of CVD. The MedDiet has become an increasingly popular topic of interest when focusing on overall food patterns rather than single nutrient intake, not only in Mediterranean countries, but also globally. However, several myths and misconceptions associated with the traditional Mediterranean diet should be clearly addressed and dispelled, particularly those that label as “Mediterranean” an eating pattern that is not in line with the traditional Mediterranean diet. The transferability of the traditional MedDiet to the non-Mediterranean populations is possible, but it requires a multitude of changes in dietary habits. New approaches for promoting healthy dietary behavior consistent with the MedDiet will offer healthful, sustainable, and practical strategies at all levels of public health. The following article presents practical resources and knowledge necessary for accomplishing these changes.
Diet and Asthma: Is It Time to Adapt Our Message?
Authors: Guilleminault Laurent , Williams Evan , Scott Hayley , Berthon Bronwyn , Jensen Megan , Wood Lisa
Published: November 2017

Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder which is associated with airway inflammation. Environmental factors, in association with genetic susceptibility, play a critical role in asthma pathophysiology. Inhaled allergens, smoke exposure, indoor and outdoor air pollution are common triggers of asthma symptoms. Although the role of diet has clearly established mechanisms in diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, it is not commonly identified as a causal factor in asthma. However, some dietary patterns, such as the Western diet, which includes a high intake of refined grains, processed and red meats, and desserts, have pro-inflammatory effects. On the contrary, the Mediterranean diet, with high intake of fruits and vegetables has anti-inflammatory properties. The influence of food on asthma outcomes is of growing interest, but dietary habits of asthma patients are not commonly investigated in clinical practice. In this review, we focus on the impact of diet on asthma risk and asthma control. We also detail the influence of diet on obese patients with asthma.
Company Strategies for Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI): A Conceptual Model
Authors: Van de Poel Ibo , Asveld Lotte , Flipse Steven , Klaassen Pim , Scholten Victor , Yaghmaei Emad
Published: November 2017

Responsible research and innovation (RRI) has become an important topic in the academic community and in policy circles, but it has not yet been systematically included in the innovation process of companies. We discuss how companies can integrate RRI into their corporate social responsibility (CSR) policies and business strategy. To this end, we developed a conceptual model that links a company’s RRI strategy to its context, and that helps to translate the RRI strategy into activities that result in RRI outcomes. We also propose a process for developing company-specific RRI key performance indicators (KPIs) that can support companies to measure RRI outcomes.