bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joint inversion of surface and borehole magnetic data: A level-set approach
Authors: Li Wenbin , Qian Jianliang , Li Yaoguo
Published: October 2019

The need to improve the depth resolution of the magnetic susceptibility model recovered from surface magnetic data is a well-known challenge, and it becomes increasingly important as exploration moves to regions under cover and at great depths. Incorporating borehole magnetic data can be an effective means to achieve increased model resolution at depth. The recently developed level-set method for magnetic inversion provides a novel means for constructing the geometric shape of causative bodies and opens a new avenue for the joint inversion of surface and borehole magnetic data for the purpose of achieving improved depth resolution. We have developed an extension of the algorithm to the joint inversion and find that the level-set algorithm can resolve the configuration and spatial separation of complex magnetic sources using the information in the magnetic data from sparse boreholes. We further examine the use of borehole intersection information in estimating the crucially important susceptibility values within the context of level-set inversion and find that the susceptibility value can also be used as a probing parameter to assess the uncertainty in the spatial extent of the causative bodies. We determine that the modified level-set inversion leads to an effective means to image and delineate magnetic causative bodies with complex structure by combining the information from surface magnetic data, borehole magnetic data, and sparse drillhole intersection data.
Improved estimation of elastic attributes from prestack seismic data for reservoir characterization
Authors: Zhou Yijie , Ruiz Franklin , Chen Yequan , Xia Fan
Published: October 2019

Seismic derivable elastic attributes, e.g., elastic impedance, lambda-rho, mu-rho, and Poisson impedance (PI), are routinely being used for reservoir characterization practice. These attributes could be derived from inverted [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and density, and usually indicate high sensitivity to reservoir lithology and fluid. Due to the high sensitivity of such elastic attributes, errors or measurement noise associated with the acquisition, processing, and inversion of prestack seismic data will propagate through the inversion products, and will lead to even larger errors in the computed attributes. To solve this problem, we have developed a two-step cascade workflow that combines linear inversion and nonlinear optimization techniques for the improved estimation of elastic attributes and better prediction and delineation of reservoir lithology and fluids. The linear inversion in the first step is an inversion scheme with a sparseness assumption, based on L1-norm regularization. This step is used to select the major reflective layer locations, followed in the second step by a nonlinear optimization process with the predefined layer structure. The combination of these two procedures produces a reasonable blocky earth model with consistent elastic properties, including the ones that are sensitive to reservoir lithology and fluid change, and thus provides an accurate approach for seismic reservoir characterization. Using PI, as one of the target elastic attributes, as an example, this workflow has been successfully applied to synthetic and field data examples. The results indicate that our workflow improves the estimation of elastic attributes from the noisy prestack seismic data and may be used for the identification of the reservoir lithology and fluid.
Natural Education in Wollstonecraft’s Wrongs of Woman and Rousseau’s Emile
Authors: Engh Catherine
Published: October 2019

This essay places Wollstonecraft’s late novel Maria; or, The Wrongs of Woman (1798) in conversation with Rousseau’s thought on natural education in Emile (1762). In both texts, aesthetic sensibility is a foundation of religious belief and a crucial feature of a program of natural education that aims at freedom. Education falters, however, as Rousseau’s student and Wollstonecraft’s heroine are consigned to exile by a prejudiced society. Though Rousseau and Wollstonecraft make strong claims for the moral and liberating possibilities of aesthetic sensibility, they differ in their interpretation of exile. Wollstonecraft rewrites Rousseau’s portrait of the self-sufficient exile to highlight her outcast heroine’s estrangement from the vital forces that animate life and the mind. Natural education fails in Wrongs of Woman because the cultivation of sensibility remains separate from the work of reforming the social structures that discredit women’s reason.
Memory Thieves?
Authors: Vice Sue
Published: October 2019

This article examines the contemporary phenomenon of fiction and film about Holocaust survivors suffering from dementia. Earlier examples of this kind use dementia to explore the interior states of survivor guilt and the suppression of painful memories. By contrast, twenty-first-century representations convey the passing on of Holocaust memory to the next generation. These individuals, in the role of offspring or carers, act as the investigators and inheritors of a history that either has vanished from the survivor’s memory or appears in the present as if it were still taking place. Such works are expressive of cultural anxiety at the vanishing of the generation of eyewitnesses to the events of the Holocaust yet also act to defuse the unwelcome lessons such witnesses might impart.
Impacto das variáveis bursáteis no desempenho financeiro das corretoras independentes
Authors: Ukita Leonardo Anversi , Olivo Rodolfo Leandro de Faria , Morilhas Leandro José , Nielsen Flávia Angeli Ghisi
Published: October 2019

O século XXI trouxe importantes inovações para o mercado acionário, particularmente a utilização em larga escala de sistemas automatizados de negociação que aliados a sistema de informação de altíssima velocidade, tornaram o mercado mais eficiente e competitivo para as corretoras de valores. Nesse contexto, o presente artigo investiga os impactos dessas mudanças para as corretoras independentes no Brasil. Para tanto, a técnica adotada é a da regressão linear múltiplas tendo como variáveis independentes: o índice Bovespa (IBOV), a volatilidade do mercado acionário e o volume negociado e como variável dependente o desempenho econômico-financeiro das corretoras brasileiras. Para tanto, o trabalho utilizou-se de uma amostra temporal de 52 meses. Os resultados obtidos sugerem que há pouco impacto das variáveis independentes no desempenho econômico-financeiro das corretoras no período, indicando um impacto ainda limitado das novas tecnologias de negociação e informação no mercado brasileiro.
A concept analysis of postpartum contraception
Authors: Kapito Esnath , Chirwa Ellen , Haruzivishe Clara , Sakala Betty , Mwale Ruth , Gwaza Elizabeth , Maluwa Veronica
Published: October 2019

Postpartum contraception has some ambiguities in terms of its definition and period. The purpose of this concept analysis is to clarify postpartum contraception in terms of its attributes, antecedents, consequences and empirical referents. This can be used in the development of a model for care that promotes the use of postpartum contraception

Walker and Avant's (2011) traditional method of concept analysis was used here. A theoretical definition of postpartum contraception was formulated and six defining attributes of postpartum contraception were identified through the process of induction. The antecedents and consequences of postpartum contraception are presented

Defining postpartum contraception helps highlight important elements that can be applied in client care in order to improve maternal and neonatal outcomes. Further insights to this concept are required for the development of a model, which can be used to improve midwifery practice and maternal and neonatal health.
A Comparative Study of the Effect of Lignocaine and Tramadol on Healing of Infected wound in Wistar Rats
Authors: Shenoy Smita , Ballal R Abhijna , Kumar Praveen S E. , Ballal Mamatha , Bangera Sohan , Rao KG Mohandas , Nayak Veena
Published: October 2019

The study was conducted to assess the effect of lignocaine and tramadol on healing of Staphylococcus aureus infected incision wound in rats. Incision wounds were created in three groups consisting of six rats in each group. The rats were infected with Staphylococcus aureus inoculum and the incision was closed. The rats were treated according to their group – Group I (Normal saline), Group II (2% Lignocaine) and Group III (5% Tramadol). All the drugs were applied topically, once a day for 10 days. The parameters measured to evaluate the wound healing was breaking strength, Colony Forming Units/ mL (CFU/ mL) of the tissue and histopathological examination. Data analysis was by one-way (Analysis of Variance) ANOVA followed by post hoc Tukey’s test. A significant difference (p<0.05 vs control) in the breaking strength and CFU/mL of tissue was observed between the control Group I and the test groups, Group II (2%lignocaine) and Group III (5% tramadol) when the drugs were used topically. Histopathological study did not show much difference in the morphology between the control and other groups, it revealed disorganised collagen fibres. This study suggests that lignocaine and tramadol do not impede healing of infected incision wound.
ЛИНГВИСТИЧЕСКАЯ ЭКСПЕРТИЗА РЕКЛАМНОГО ТЕКСТА ИЗ СЕТИ ИНТЕРНЕТ
Authors: Geraskevich Natalia
Published: October 2019

В настоящей статье рассматриваются особенности современного рекламного текста. Акцентируется внимание на когнитивной и аффективной функциях рекламы как основополагающих при создании и восприятии рекламного продукта. В представленной статье освещены правовые аспекты рекламы в современном обществе со ссылкой на нормативную правовую базу Федерального уровня. Обозначены признаки недобросовестной и неэтичной рекламы. На основании сформулированных выводов проведена лингвистическая экспертиза конкретного рекламного текста из сети Интернет. Представлен подробный лингвистический анализ рекламы в соответствии с обозначенным алгоритмом. В исследовании рассматриваются признаки рекламного текста, объект рекламирования, форма функционирования рекламного слогана. Выявлен адресат анализируемого рекламного продукта. Лингвистической экспертизе подвергнуто семантическое содержание рекламы и ее комментариев пользователями сети Интернет. Результаты лингвистической экспертизы могут быть признаны самодостаточными либо послужить основой для дальнейшего анализа указанного рекламного текста.
МИГРАЦИЯ В ПОСТСОВЕТСКОМ ПРОСТРАНСТВЕ: ФАКТОРЫ, ПРИЧИНЫ И ПОСЛЕДСТВИЯ
Authors: Ульмасов Рахмон Ульмасович
Published: October 2019

Анализируется проблема миграции в пространстве СНГ и других странах мира. Мигрант — не просто человек, зарабатывающий деньги, миграция — это образ жизни, который не все понимают и принимают. Сегодня в этот процесс вовлечены миллионы людей по всему миру.
МЕХАНИЗМЫ ФОРМИРОВАНИЯ СОЦИАЛЬНОЙ БАЗЫ БОЛЬШЕВИЗМА В СТЕПНОМ КРАЕ В ПЕРИОД ГРАЖДАНСКОЙ ВОЙНЫ (1918–1921 гг.)
Authors: Лысенко Юлия Александровна
Published: October 2019

Статья посвящена анализу социально-политической ситуации в Степном крае в период гражданской войны 1918–1922 гг. В эти годы в регионе происходило мощное идеологическое противостояние большевиков со своими политическими оппонентами в борьбе за власть. Стремление большевиков к ее монопольному захвату и формированию однопартийной системы осложнялась отсутствием у них социальной базы и наличием мощной оппозиции в лице этнополитических организаций. Укрепление политического влияния РКП(б) в Степном крае в период гражданской войны осуществлялось посредством конструирования советских органов власти и регионального отделения РКП(б) с использованием арсенала идеологических и социально-экономических средств.
A sequential and MR-Lock Reimplemation of : Lock-free Transactions without Rollbacks for Linked Data Structures
Authors: JAIN JIGAR , Gaidhani Rushikesh , Bahuguna Pranjal
Published: October 2019

Non-blocking transactional structures are now been there for quite a while now. With the transactional structure we want to achieve atomicity of multiple operation of a transaction and consistency of the structure after rollback. Older solutions like software transactional memory (STM) and transactional boost provide synchronization at an external layer over the structure itself. This introduces an overhead which is not necessarily required. Thus, it is a probable problem. To solve this issue, researchers provided with a solution which make structural changes in the existing data structure and make it transactional, lock-free. In this work we present a sequential re-implantation of a the above provided solution. We applied transactional transformation to a linked-list and made a sequential version of it. Next, we introduced multi-resource lock version of the same which will used locking to support multi- thread operation on the linked list. As anyone would expect, we get constant time graph for a sequential version of the transactional structure. But the case for locked based multi thread version is different. We get worse performance as compared to sequential version as we get the overhead of maintain a resource vector. As the number of threads increase the size of resource vector increase and thus contention increases. In future we plan to completely re-implement a lock free transactional linked data structure and yet again compare its result with the results from this paper.
Indivíduo, comportamento e decisão econômica: as contribuições dos conceitos de racionalidade limitada, processos cognitivos duais e heurísticas
Authors: Zulian Aline , Martinelli Júnior Orlando , Marin Solange Regina
Published: October 2019

Longe de pretender apresentar todos os elementos que compõem a cognição humana, o objetivo principal deste artigo é possibilitar uma melhor compreensão do comportamento dos indivíduos na economia em relação à teoria neoclássica tradicionalmente difundida, por meio da apresentação dos seguintes aspectos cognitivos: racionalidade limitada, processos cognitivos (deliberativos e intuitivos) e heurísticas. O artigo apresenta contribuições conceituais que ampliam o entendimento do comportamento dos agentes econômicos e de seus processos decisórios. Destaca-se a importância dos aspectos cognitivos dos indivíduos relacionados aos conceitos de racionalidade limitada e processual de Simon, de processos cognitivos e de heurísticas de Kahneman e Tversky. O comportamento do indivíduo não é plenamente racional, maximizador e naturalmente dado, mas é guiado por processos comportamentais complexos, internos e externos ao ser humano, influenciados por contextos situacionais, sociais e institucionais.
Crédito rural agrícola e impactos regionais sobre a dinâmica da produção agrícola brasileira no período de 2000 a 2010
Authors: B. Trindade José Raimundo , Cruz Adejard Gaia
Published: October 2019

Este artigo examina o crédito rural, tendo como ponto de apoio metodológico os indicadores de concentração, especialização, localização e desigualdade tal como se especificará na seção metodológica deste trabalho. O estudo analisa exclusivamente o crédito rural agrícola, objetivando problematizar o impacto deste sobre as condições de expansão da agricultura brasileira no período de 2000 a 2010, considerando os indicadores mencionados para focalizar a distribuição do crédito rural em nível nacional, centrado nas macrorregiões do Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (IBGE), sob o recorte municipal. Os indicadores mostram que aproximadamente 84 % dos municípios com elevada disponibilidade de crédito agrícola estão concentrados no Sul e Sudeste em 2010, sendo irrisória a participação da Região Norte, cuja evolução entre os indicadores de 2000 para 2010 foram insignificantes (passou de 0,5 % para 0,7 %). Dessa forma, a maior concentração dos municípios de precária ou inexistente disponibilidade creditícia apresenta-se nas regiões Norte e Nordeste, o que reforça a importância de se pensar novas políticas públicas regionalizadas de oferta de crédito agrícola.
Educação básica, capital humano e crescimento econômico: uma análise para os estados brasileiros
Authors: Lúcio Francisco Germano Carvalho , Gomes José Weligton Félix , Pereira Ricardo Antonio de Castro
Published: October 2019

Este estudo analisa o impacto do capital humano no crescimento econômico dos estados brasileiros considerando a qualidade da educação básica na composição do capital humano. O trabalho analisa o período de 2005 a 2014, implicando a utilização de modelos de dados em painel. Para tanto, utilizou-se o modelo de Mankiw, Romer e Weil (1992) e o Índice de Desenvolvimento da Educação Básica – Ideb para inserir a qualidade da educação no capital humano. Visando abordar a heterogeneidade dos estados brasileiros e corrigir a heterocedasticidade e a autocorrelação detectadas, optou-se pela estimação do modelo com efeitos aleatórios utilizando mínimos quadrados generalizados (GLS). O modelo adotado mostrou-se adequado para o objetivo proposto.
Template free Micro Doppler Signature Classification for Wheeled and Tracked Vehicles
Authors: Guanghu Jin , Zhen Dong , Zhang Yongsheng , He Feng
Published: October 2019

The micro-Doppler signature is a time-varying frequency modulation imparted on radar echo caused by target’s micro-motion. To save the trouble of constructing template in the target classification, this paper investigates the micro-Doppler signature of wheeled and tracked vehicles and proposes a template-free classification method. Firstly, the echo signature is established and the micro-Doppler difference of these two kinds of targets is analysed. Secondly, some new micro-Doppler features are defined according to their difference. The new defined features are micro-Doppler bandwidth, micro-Doppler expansion rate and micro-Doppler peak number. According to the characteristic of the micro-Doppler in the time-frequency domain, we proposed to realise the feature extraction by Hough transformation. Lastly, template-free subjection functions are proposed to define the relationship between the features and the vehicles. By fuzzy comprehensive evaluation, the final classification result is obtained by combining the subjection probabilities together. Experimental results based on the simulated data and measured data are presented, which prove that the algorithm has good performance.
Numerical Analysis and Measurement of Electric field Strength inside GTEM Cell at GSM Frequencies
Authors: Narang Naina , Dubey Satya K. , Ojha V.N.
Published: October 2019

A miniaturised gigahertz transverse electromagnetic (GTEM) cell is designed and fabricated to generate uniform electric (E-) field, essential for studying the radio frequency exposure effect on tissue equivalent liquids at global system for mobile (GSM) communication frequencies (914 MHz and 2.10 GHz). The simulation procedure is discussed and its results are compared with measurement data. The E-field strength inside the GTEM cell is scanned using a microstrip based E-field probe and complete uncertainty evaluation procedure is discussed. Theoretically, simulated and measured E-field strength is reported with expanded uncertainty.
Understanding the Role of the Brick-and-Mortar Classroom in Course Design and Implementation of the “Flipped” Classroom: An Exploratory Case Study
Authors: Counselman Carpenter Elisabeth , Redcay Alex
Published: October 2019

This article shares the results of a two-year exploratory case study on the impact of flipped classroom design on generalist and advanced practice social work skills in a large urban graduate university setting. The flipped classroom was chosen due to its’ emphasis on physical space as an active learning, skills-oriented, activity-based environment, rather than traditional lecture-based learning.  This two-year study gathered quantitative data on the flipped classroom format, which featured weekly lectures recorded and posted through the Canvas learning platform, with information outcome and learning retention quizzes also taken in Canvas, followed by in-class live experiential lab sessions in which students were paired up or placed into small groups to develop and strengthen their clinical skills. Students then completed reflection journals following these activities, which were compared to Educational Policy and Accreditation Standards to further assess for additional data and learning outcomes.

This article will present the findings of the study, which revealed statistical significance in overall general practice skills scores and in specific advanced practice clinical skills. Additionally, the article will discuss student-generated feedback on the physical learning environment, instructor workload demands, and required preparatory work. Further discussion will include expected and unexpected limitations of the space, expansion of the classroom through digital platforms, inclusion of differently-abled students in the flipped laboratory space, as well as recommendations for future research and iterations of the course. This study is the first to use the Play Therapy Attitude Knowledge Skills Survey (PTAKSS) and Practice Skills Inventory (PSI) to measure the outcome of play therapy classes for MSW students and to specifically measure the effectiveness of the flipped classroom model to teach play therapy skills. This study shows promising outcomes for the use of the flipped model as a way of delivering practice content to students and explores the role and specific impact that weekly sessions in the physical learning environment had on student outcomes.
Marcado de audio mejorado en el dominio wavelet
Authors: Pinto Erika , Ballesteros Dora Maria , Renza Diego
Published: October 2019

El marcado de agua en imágenes ha sido ampliamente usado con fines de protección de derechos de autor. Uno de los métodos utilizados para insertar la marca corresponde a QIM, y típicamente se realiza directamente sobre la imagen. La principal desventaja consiste en que el nivel de seguridad es bajo, y la marca se puede eliminar fácilmente si se conocen el valor del paso de cuantización utilizado. Con el propósito de aumentar la seguridad, proponemos una mejora al método QIM tradicional, aplicando la inserción en el dominio wavelet de la imagen, y solamente en algunos coeficientes de alta amplitud seleccionados de forma aleatoria por el sistema. De acuerdo a las pruebas realizadas, se pudo verificar que, si la imagen marcada es atacada de forma intencional, la marca recuperada tiene contenido legible. Adicionalmente, aumentamos la seguridad, dado que la clave de recuperación no solo depende del paso de cuantización, sino de la selección de los coeficientes wavelet.
Sistema automático de clasificación de peces
Authors: Jiménez Moreno Robinson , Martínez Baquero Javier Eduardo , Rodríguez Umaña Luis Alfredo
Published: October 2019

el presente artículo expone el diseño de una arquitectura de red para reconocimiento de patrones orientada a la clasificación automática de dos tipos de peces: mojarra y tilapia. Se emplea una arquitectura basada en aprendizaje profundo mediante una red neuronal convolucional (RNC) para la cual se determina la base de datos a emplear y los diferentes hiperparámetros que la componen. Se logra obtener, mediante análisis por matriz de confusión, un desempeño del 100% de la red bajo las condiciones controladas el sistema de clasificación, es decir: color de banda transportadora uniforme y uso de luz día.
Metodología para elaboración de requerimientos en aplicaciones con servicios web
Authors: Paez Cardenas Patricia , Arias Peralta Christian David , Wanumen Silva Luis Felipe
Published: October 2019

Dependiendo de la técnica usada en la captura de requerimientos, se pueden obtener procesos innovadores e iterativos que verdaderamente sirvan de soporte a la construcción de aplicaciones que consumen servicios. Las metodologías ágiles sugieren la elicitación de requerimientos altamente cambiantes, mientras que las metodologías tradicionales sugieren detallar al máximo los requerimientos luego de hacer un proceso de priorización. En el presente artículo se analizan los enfoques de elicitación de las metodologías ágiles y tradicionales y se toman los aspectos de cada una de ellas que guardan concordancia con las características de las aplicaciones que consumen servicios, lo anterior con el fin de proponer un marco de trabajo para la elicitación de requerimientos respecto al caso específico de aplicaciones que utilizan servicios web. Al finalizar el artículo se realiza una validación en dos empresas que prestan servicios de desarrollo de software.
Análisis de estabilidad transitoria y de pequeña señal en un sistema multimáquina: caso de estudio
Authors: Reyes Caro María Camila , Córdoba Narváez Paula Alejandra , Rivas Trujillo Edwin
Published: October 2019

En este artículo se presenta el análisis de estabilidad transitoria y de pequeña señal para un sistema multimáquina. Se parte de los datos de la red propuesta por El-Abiad y Nagappan y los resultados del estudio de estabilidad transitoria obtenidos mediante el segundo método de Lyapunov, los cuales se comparan con la respuesta del sistema en DIgSILENT PowerFactory 15.1; se ejecuta la función RMS/EMS simulation que permite definir las curvas t-δ, perfiles de velocidad, tensión y frecuencia. Adicionalmente, se incluye el estudio de pequeña señal con la función modal analysis que tiene el fin de conocer el comportamiento del sistema ante pequeñas perturbaciones por medio del lugar geométrico de la raíz (LGR); este análisis permite una visión más amplia a los problemas de estabilidad para sistemas robustos que deben soportar fallas durante su operación o implementarse nuevas técnicas para la coordinación de protecciones.
Editorial
Authors: Mosquera Palacios Darin Jairo
Published: October 2019

Editorial
Reallabore zwischen Beliebtheit und Beliebigkeit: Eine Bestandsaufnahme des transformativen Formats
Authors: Wagner Felix , Grunwald Armin
Published: October 2019

Inhaltlich und methodisch hat die Reallaborforschung wichtige Schritte vollzogen. Mit dem großen Erfolg des Begriffs kommt es aber auch zu Verschiebungen in der Deutung. So wird die genuine Intention von Reallaboren, gesellschaftliche Transformationen in Richtung Nachhaltigkeit
anzustoßen, zugunsten einer techno-ökonomischen Innovationsorientierung aufgeweicht. Damit Reallabore nicht beliebig werden, sollten sie (weiterhin) fundamental Transformierendes wagen und ,,kulturkreativ“ arbeiten. Und damit die Gesellschaft stärker profitieren kann,
sollten sie langfristig eingerichtet und Praxisakteure stärker einbezogen werden.
Uncertainty analysis of the Limits to Growth model: sensitivity is high, but trends are stable
Authors: Heath Ashley William , Stappenbelt Brad , Ros Montserrat
Published: October 2019

Since publication, the Limits to Growth model has received both praise and criticism. One criticism is the model’s sensitivity to input error. We have performed an uncertainty analysis to see in retrospect if the model’s sensitivity was of concern. The results show
that standard deviations of output variables are high. The general trends of the variables, however, are predictable, with very similarly shaped trend lines. Trajectories indicating a favourable future for humankind (i. e., without a severe decline in population and resources) stay in areas
of low probability.Uncertainty analysis is an important step in determining the reliability of a model. Models which are used to determine policies or guide decisions must be reliable to ensure sound choices are made. The Limits to Growth model by Donella Meadows and colleagues
was one of the first computer models to investigate global issues of population growth and resource constraints. The model received much attention and criticism, sometimes being accused of being too sensitive to variations in input parameters. This paper studies the model’s sensitivity
to input error through an uncertainty analysis, and examines if this sort of analysis could have affected the debate surrounding the model’s reliability and usefulness. Results showed that given the data used to calibrate the model, the output was susceptible to large variations, with
the population variable returning a normalised standard deviation of 0.43. However, despite input error, the trends of the variables remain predictable.
Validation of a rapid, comprehensive and clinically relevant amino acid profile by underivatised liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Carling Rachel S. , John Kate , Churchus Richard , Turner Charles , Dalton R. Neil
Published: October 2019

Background

Quantification of plasma amino acids is key to the diagnosis of inherited defects of amino acid synthesis, catabolism and transport, many of which present as clinical emergencies. The utility of this test is limited by the long analysis time and subsequent inability of laboratories to provide results in real-time. Traditionally, analysis has been performed by ion exchange chromatography (IEC) but recently there has been a move towards liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) which provides the potential for faster analysis. However, the necessity to derivatise the sample and/or utilise an ion-pair reagent, combined with lack of commercially available stable isotope internal standards (IS) has prevented laboratories fully exploiting the benefits of this methodology. We describe an underivatised LC-MS/MS method enabling patient results to be reported with an improved turnaround time (<1 h).

Methods

Methanolic IS was added to plasma (10 μL) to precipitate protein. Following centrifugation amino acids were analysed by LC-MS/MS using selected reaction monitoring (SRM) for each analyte and corresponding IS.

Results

Patient samples (n = 57) and external quality assessment (EQA) material (n = 11) were analysed and results compared with IEC. Comparable accuracy and precision were obtained with 15-min analysis time.

Conclusions

This method enables the analysis of a clinically comprehensive amino acid profile without the need for derivatisation/ion-pair reagents and benefitting from improved analytical quantitation through multipoint calibration and use of stable isotope IS. The analysis time is fast in comparison to IEC, improves efficiency of laboratory workflow and enables stat analysis of clinically urgent samples.
How to visualize the different lactose content of dairy products by Fearon’s test and Woehlk test in classroom experiments and a new approach to the mechanisms and formulae of the mysterious red dyes
Authors: Ruppersberg Klaus , Herzog Stefanie , Kussler Manfred W. , Parchmann Ilka
Published: October 2019

The article connects historical developments in analytics with contexts of today and school experiments: Woehlk test and Fearon’s test are historically known as the reactions of lactose and maltose with ammonia and methylamine, respectively. Both lead to characteristic red dyes whose formation and structural formulae had not been of interest or had even been reported incorrectly until 2015. Even though these tests, developed in the first half of the twentieth century, are obsolete in medicinal analysis today, they pose interesting experiments for school chemistry, when investigating the topic of macromolecules or sugars. In an inquiry or context-based teaching approach, tests visualizing different lactose concentrations in different dairy products would fit into the contexts milk and chemical detection of diseases. The experiments can also be used in a historically based problem-oriented approach in which the scientists, their work and lives can be the central perspective. As both methods of analysis result in brightly colored solutions, they are easily interpretable as well as aesthetically appealing to students. As the test developed by Fearon is quicker and makes use of less dangerous chemicals, it is the one to be preferably used in school.
Predicting mortality with cardiac troponins: recent insights from meta-analyses
Authors: Lippi Giuseppe , Cervellin Gianfranco , Sanchis-Gomar Fabian
Published: October 2019

The introduction of cardiac troponin (cTn) testing in clinical practice has been one of the most important breakthroughs that have occurred in the recent history of laboratory medicine. Although it is now uncontestable that cTn values are essential for diagnosing acute coronary syndrome (ACS), solid evidence is also emerging that assessment of either cardiac troponin I (cTnI) or T (cTnT) may provide valuable prognostic information in the general healthy population, as well as in patients with a vast array of cardiac and extra-cardiac diseases. We have hence performed a critical review of the scientific literature for identifying meta-analyses which have investigated the potential contribution of cTns in predicting the risk of death in health and disease. According to the articles identified with our research, we can conclude that increased cTn values may be considered independent risk factors for all-cause mortality in the general population, as well as in patients with ACS, in those undergoing revascularization procedures, or with stable coronary artery disease (CAD), heart failure (HF) and atrial fibrillation (AF). Measurement of cTn may then be helpful for stratifying the mortality risk in non-cardiac hospitalized patients, in those with critical illness or sepsis, syncope, stroke, acute aortic dissection, pulmonary diseases, brain injury, renal failure, vascular and non-cardiac surgery. Although this evidence has notable clinical implications, the cost-effectiveness of population screening with high-sensitivity (hs) cTn immunoassays has not been proven so far.
Data Mining and Knowledge Discovery. Preliminaries for a Critical Examination of the Data Driven Society
Authors: Sarra Claudio
Published: October 2019

Data Mining (DM) is the analytical activity aimed at revealing new “knowledge” from data useful for further decision-making processes. These techniques have recently acquired enormous importance as they seem to fit perfectly the requests of the so called “Data Driven World”. In this paper, first I give an overview of DM, and of the most relevant criticisms raised so far. Then using a well-known case study and the European General Data Protection Regulation as benchmark, I show that there are some specific ambiguities in this use of “knowledge” which are relevant for the ethical and legal assessment of DM.
Cancer- and non-cancer related chronic pain: from the physiopathological basics to management
Authors: Sica Antonello , Casale Beniamino , Dato Maria Teresa Di , Calogero Armando , Spada Alessandro , Sagnelli Caterina , Santagata Mario , Buonavolontà Pietro , Fiorelli Alfonso , Salzano Anna , Dodaro Concetta Anna , Martinelli Erika , Saracco Elisabetta , Troiani Teresa , Tammaro Dario , Ciardiello Fortunato , Papa Alfonso
Published: October 2019

The prevalence of chronic pain is between 33% to 64% and is due to cancer pain, but it has also been observed in non-cancer patients. Chronic pain is associated with lower quality of life and higher psychological distress and depressive/anxiety disorders in patients without a history of disorder.

In this study we evaluated in clinical practice the effectiveness of the intrathecal pump in 140 patients who underwent pain therapy at our Center. These patients were consecutively enrolled from January 2010 to July 2018.

Follow-up was carried out over these eight years regarding the infusion modalities. Pain relief was obtained in 71 (50,7%) patients out of the 140 that experienced satisfactory pain control globally.

Intrathecal therapy is one of the best options for chronic severe refractory pain. The greatest advantage of this therapy is due to the possibility of treating the pain with minimal dosages of the drug, avoiding the appearance of troublesome side effects.
Interaction design and methodology of robot-assisted therapy for children with severe ASD and ADHD
Authors: Sandygulova Anara , Zhexenova Zhanel , Tleubayev Bolat , Nurakhmetova Aidana , Zhumabekova Dana , Assylgali Ilyas , Rzagaliyev Yerzhan , Zhakenova Aliya
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a patient-centered interaction design of Robot-Assisted Therapy or Robot-Assisted Play (RAP) applications for children with a diverse form of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) combined with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Through our iterative evaluation process based on observations of fourteen children over several sessions and interviews with their parents, we continuously refined the behaviors of a humanoid robot NAO that are now ready to be used for research on Robot-Assisted Therapy. This paper also reports the design of RAP methodology that might be helpful in assimilating iterative input from stakeholders such as children, parents and therapists to customize technology for other populations with special needs.
Reason’s feeling: A systematic reconstruction of Kant’s theory of moral respect
Authors: Noller Jörg
Published: October 2019

In my paper, I shall take seriously Kant’s puzzling statements about the moral feeling of respect, which is, according to him, “a feeling self-wrought by means of a rational concept and therefore specifically different” from all common feelings. I will focus on the systematic position of the moral feeling of respect within the framework of Kant’s transcendental idealism. By considering its volitional structure, I argue for a compatibilist account of the moral feeling of respect, according to which both intellectualist and affectivist interpretations are true. As such, respect can be understood in terms of a process of moral self-consciousness and self-formation, which means that the will must be freed from initial empirical motives, and finally be determined only by rational principles.
Serum chymase levels in obese individuals: the relationship with inflammation and hypertension
Authors: Topparmak Erdal , Tanrıkulu-Küçük Sevda , Koçak Hikmet , Öner-İyidoğan Yıldız
Published: October 2019

Background

Inflammation related hypertension is reported in obesity due to synthesis of angiotensin-II (Ang-II) and proinflammatory compounds in obese adipose tissue. Mast cell chymase (MC) also stimulate Ang-II synthesis, and activate transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-β1) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9). The aim of our study is to evaluate the relation of serum chymase levels, a serine protease enzyme secreted from mast cells, in obese patients with hypertension and cytokines that lead to cell damage.

Materials and methods

Three study groups are composed of individuals aged between 19 and 63 with following characteristics; (1) control (n = 30): healthy subjects with body mass index (BMI) <25; (2) obese (n = 30): patients with BMI >30; (3) obese + HT (n = 20): patients BMI >30 and hypertension. Serum Ang-II, MC, TGF-β1 and MMP-9 are determined by commercial ELISA. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) activity is determined with enzymatic colorimetric assay.

Results

Serum chymase levels did not vary between groups. Chymase levels showed significant negative correlation with ACE activity (r = −0.278, p = 0.013) and positive correlation with Ang-II levels (r = 0.251, p = 0.024). No correlation was evident between chymase levels and hsCRP, TGF-β1 and MMP-9.

Conclusion

Serum chymase, Ang-II, TGF-β1 and MMP-9 levels did not change in obese and hypertensive-obese patients despite evident hyperinsulinemia, increased insulin resistance and elevated hsCRP levels.
Efectos fisiológicos del estrés hídrico en variedades de frijol tolerantes a la sequía
Authors: Montero Tavera Victor , Gutiérrez-Benicio Glenda M. , Mireles-Arriaga Ana I. , Aguirre-Mancilla Cesar L. , Acosta-Gallegos Jorge A. , Ruiz Nieto Jorge Eric
Published: October 2019

El entendimiento de la respuesta fisiológica al estrés hídrico resulta un factor clave para identificar variedades tolerantes en cultivos agrícola como el frijol. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar los caracteres diferenciales en la respuesta fisiológica a la sequía entre variedades de frijol contrastantes en su tolerancia al estrés hídrico. El experimento se realizó en condiciones de invernadero y utilizando tratamientos de sequía como fuente de variación experimental durante dos etapas fenológicas con cuatro variedades. Las respuestas fisiológicas a la sequía fueron diferentes entre las variedades susceptibles y tolerantes, incluso entre estas. De acuerdo con los resultados, la variedad más tolerante fue Pinto Saltillo (PS). La tasa de fotosíntesis, la producción de semillas, la biomasa del follaje (BF) y la raíz pueden ser criterios útiles en la identificación y selección de genotipos tolerantes a este estrés.
Condition index in three size classes of the smooth venus clam Chionista fluctifraga from a commercial fishery in Sonora, Mexico
Authors: Chávez-Villalba Jorge , Arreola-Lizárraga José Alfredo , Castillo-Durán Ariaana
Published: October 2019

This study shows the condition index (CI) of the clam Chionista fluctifraga in three different size groups (small <30 mm, medium 30 mm - 40 mm, and large > 40 mm) harvested monthly during one year in a commercial fishery (Sonora, Mexico). Temperature, salinity, oxygen, chlorophyll a, particulate organic and inorganic concentrations were recorded once-a-month at the study site. Significant differences of CI were detected; higher for small clams (26.5 ± 3.4), followed by medium (24.0 ± 3.0) and large clams (20.2 ± 3.0). High and moderate correlations (Pearson) of temperature and CI were observed in small and medium clams. Thus, temperature was the variable affecting CI the most and this was detected during the period corresponding to reproduction and nutrient storage of the species. In relation to these processes, the CI reflected a different nutritional value for each group of clams; high for small, moderate for medium animals, and low for large individuals. This may serve to producers when selecting clams with high condition and planning harvesting.
Prácticas agroecológicas y su influencia en la fertilidad del suelo en la región cafetalera de Xolotla, Puebla
Authors: Contreras Cruz Andrea , Sánchez Morales Primo , Romero Arenas Omar , Rivera Tapia José Antonio , Ocampo Fletes Ignacio , Parraguirre Lezama José Filomeno Conrado
Published: October 2019

El café (Coffea arabica L.) es un cultivo muy importante para el desarrollo del centro y sur de México: 70% del área cultivada se encuentra bajo manejo tradicional. Por la relevancia de estos agroecosistemas el objetivo fue identificar prácticas agroecológicas (PA) y su influencia en la fertilidad del suelo en sistemas de café de Xolotla, Puebla. Para identificar PA se aplicó una encuesta a 79 productores; para determinar la fertilidad del suelo se realizaron análisis fisicoquímicos con base en la NOM-021-SEMARNAT; además, se analizó la concentración bacteriana total. Se encontró que 71% de las prácticas que se usan en el manejo del cafetal son agroecológicas, tienen relación positiva con el rendimiento y con los contenidos de nitrógeno, potasio y calcio del suelo, así como con la concentración bacteriana del suelo. Se concluye que las PA favorecen el rendimiento y la fertilidad del suelo en el sistema agroforestal café.
Role of Cytomax Beverage among Elite Female Badminton Players in Iran
Authors: Mehraein Sepideh , Khabiri Kaveh , Pouria Mohammad Reza , Rashidi Arash , Hajifaraji Majid , Mehrad Aida
Published: October 2019

Nowadays, one of the main factors that plays a vital role in sports is beverages that have a great contribution on athletes’ food style and nutrition. The present study analyzed sports beverages based on performance indicators of elite female badminton players in Iran. This study lasted eight weeks, supplying sport drinks and water to two different groups: one with Cytomax and one with water (79 participants). The data was obtained based on a 24-hour recall questionnaire in three different days every week. Additionally, skin folds brachial triceps index was used for body fat percent assessment. To measure peak of oxygen uptake (VO2max), the shuttle run submaximal test was applied. Additionally, to control the fluid intake, 150 ml of liquid for each 70 kg body weight every 15 minutes was recommended for each group; to control the blood volume changes related to plasma, the blood glucose, hematocrit, hemoglobin, sodium, and potassium were measured during three time periods of zero, 30 min and 90 min after the start. Finally, to measure performance, standardized tests measuring aerobic power, speed, flexibility, agility, muscular strength, and endurance indicators were used. The findings showed that supplying enough water, fluids, energy, carbohydrate, protein, and fat during exercising plays an imperative role in increasing the level of female badminton players’ performance.
Metodología de Sistemas Suaves para el estudio transdisciplinario de Sistemas de Comunicación
Authors: Murillo  Sandoval Sandra Leticia , Badillo-Piña Isaías , Peón-Escalante Ignacio Enrique
Published: October 2019

El propósito del siguiente artículo es mostrar los resultados de investigación conceptual en torno al conocimiento de la comunicación desde una perspectiva cibernética. El enfoque permitió integrar y organizar el conocimiento existente a través de la exploración de principios y procesos fundamentales del sistema. El estudio del sistema de comunicación se desarrolla bajo el enfoque amplio de la forma de conocimiento transdisciplinario. Para lograrlo se utilizan metodologías cibernéticas de segundo orden y sistémicas como la Metodología de Sistemas Suaves (MSS) de Checkland (2012) y Checkland & Poutler (2010). Esta metodología permite la diferenciación de procesos epistémicos y ontológicos del proceso de investigación-acción a través de la resolución de situaciones-problema. La propuesta deriva de un proyecto de investigación más amplio sobre la comunicación como sistema de conocimiento amplio o sistémico. Contribuye a proponer de forma gradual nuevas etapas para el estudio de la comunicación como un sistema cada vez más integrado de mayor alcance y con más aplicaciones en el mundo real.
Filtros de lealtad y elección curricular en la profesión del turismo
Authors: Cruz Barba Evangelina
Published: October 2019

El objetivo de este trabajo es presentar un modelo teórico de economía de la educación con base en la teoría de juegos. Se expone el caso de la Licenciatura en Turismo de la Universidad de Guadalajara al identificarse dos opciones académicas: la ruta académica S, considerada como tradicional, o la ruta P, considerada como alternativa. La idea central es que el estudiante utiliza sus recursos personales con sesgos en la racionalidad durante el proceso de elección académica dentro de un plan de estudios que opera bajo un sistema educativo por créditos. En el modelo se considera la asimetría de la información, los saberes y las experiencias previas de los estudiantes, que  revelan el proceso cognitivo implicado en la elección académica. Sin embargo, el estudiante tiene filtros de lealtad que inciden en su elección. Por tanto, se presenta un problema de agencia que se resuelve mediante el señalamiento. Se concluye que la elección dependerá del proceso cognición-maximización basado en la información disponible y filtros de lealtad del estudiante, asumiendo que la manifestación de los sesgos en la elección puede provocar  una ruptura entre elección curricular  y mercado laboral.
Fluorosis dental en una muestra de adolescentes del estado de Coahuila, México
Authors: Estrada Valenzuela Cristian Mayela , Llodra Calvo Juan Carlos
Published: October 2019

La fluorosis dental es una patología de la que se tiene poca información en cuanto a su prevalencia en el estado de Coahuila, México. La finalidad de este estudio descriptivo con temporalidad transversal es identificar la prevalencia y severidad de fluorosis dental en adolescentes de 12 y 15 años. Se aplicó un cuestionario e inspección del sextante anterior superior en 1205 adolescentes mediante el índice de Dean modificado y el índice comunitario de fluorosis. La prevalencia de fluorosis calculada fue de 53%. Según el grado de severidad, el código más prevalente fue muy leve. El índice comunitario de fluorosis fue de 0.602, valor que indica cercanía a un problema de salud pública. Se sugiere realizar una investigación en los pozos de agua en las comunidades involucradas para evitar un problema de salud pública.