bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Update on long-term toxicity of agricultural GMOs tolerant to roundup
Authors: Seralini Gilles-Eric
Published: February 2020

Agricultural genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are plants obtained by gene transfer or more recently by gene-editing. Their major common phenotypic trait for which 99% have been modified is that these are designed to be grown with pesticides, which may bioaccumulate in the plants and/or the consumer, and/or express insecticides in their cells. Examples of both types are Roundup-tolerant soy and corn and Bt insecticidal plants. Recently, Steinberg et al. concluded that there were no adverse effects in rats from consumption of a GM corn tolerant to Roundup, called NK603, and that no other long-term studies are justified. This contradicts several of our in vivo studies on the short- and long-term toxicological effects of either the same GMO, other GMOs, or the pesticide Roundup itself. Our results were attributed in particular to the long-term in vivo effects of Roundup residues, which also present toxic and endocrine-disrupting effects in vitro. These effects were clearly linked to the formulants of the pesticide, such as petroleum residues and heavy metals, and not to glyphosate alone. In fact, the treated rats in Steinberg et al.’s experiment showed many adverse effects, some of which, including increased mortality in males fed GM corn + Roundup, were statistically significant. Other adverse effects affected both treated and control groups. The latter trend may be due to contamination of the feed of the control animals by many carcinogenic pollutants, including pesticides, but also by Roundup residues and Roundup-tolerant GMOs. For instance, glyphosate contained in Roundup was found to be 300–1400 times more elevated in their control feed than in our treated group. In conclusion, Steinberg et al.’s study is invalidated by the contaminated feed, biased interpretations, and major undeclared conflicts of interest.
Antiviral activities of Radix isatidis polysaccharide against pseudorabies virus in swine testicle cells
Authors: Tong Chao , Chen Zewen , Liu Fang , Qiao Yanyan , Chen Tong , Wang Xuebing
Published: February 2020

Background

Radix isatidishas been used in China and other Asian countries for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects for thousands of years. However, the antiviral effect ofRadix isatidispolysaccharide against pseudorabies virus (PRV) is still unknown.

Methods

The polysaccharide were isolated from extract of the roots ofRadix isatidis.MTT assays were used to determine the preventive effect, inhibitory effect and antiviral effect ofRadix isatidispolysaccharide on PRV in vitro.

Results

This study found that different concentrations of polysaccharides from this plant can inhibit PRV replication by 14.674–30.840%, prevent infection at rates of 6.668–14.923%, and kill this virus at rates of 32.214–67.422%.

Conclusion

These results broaden the understanding of this traditional Chinese herb and provide a theoretical basis for further research. Moreover,Radix isatidispolysaccharide could be used for antiviral therapy.
Instant analgesic effect of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy on primary dysmenorrhoea according to functional magnetic resonance imaging: study protocol for a randomised placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Wang Lezheng , Yang Jian
Published: February 2020

Background

Primary dysmenorrhoea (PDM) is defined as a series of pain-dominated symptoms during and after menstruation without organic lesions. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and oral contraceptives are usually recommended as first-line therapy for the clinical treatment of PDM, but their widespread long-term application is controversial. Radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy (rESWT) has been widely applied in musculoskeletal rehabilitation because of its secure and noninvasive characteristics and its confirmed effect in improving pain symptoms. This research seeks to explore the efficacy of rESWT for PDM and the changes in brain function of patients with PDM.

Methods

This clinical research will be a randomised, blind, sham-controlled trial. Thirty-six patients with PDM will be randomly divided into the rESWT group (n = 18) and the sham rESWT group (n = 18). In the rESWT group, treatment will be applied once within 48 h of menstruation at six abdominal myofascial trigger points. The sham rESWT group will receive sham shockwave therapy on the same sites but without energy input. Other dysmenorrhoea-related treatments in both groups will be limited. The main indicators include the short form of the McGill Pain Questionnaire and the Cox Menstrual Symptom Scale. The secondary indicators include the Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale and Self-rating Depression Scale and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) changes in brain regions. Results will be evaluated at the screening, at baseline, and before and after treatment, and adverse treatments will be examined. Inter- and intragroup analyses will be performed.

Discussion

This randomised controlled study is designed to explore the immediate efficacy of rESWT for PDM. After rESWT treatment, PDM symptom tests and pain tests, as well as fMRI data, will be investigated for the potential connections between immediate neuroanalgesic mechanisms, which are associated with pain and brain networks. The main results will be used to assess the efficacy of rESWT, and secondary results will focus on improving the neurobiological understanding of disease treatment.

Trial registration

China Clinical Trial Register, ChiCTR1900020678. Registered on 13 January 2019.
Situation analysis of onchocerciasis in Cameroon: a protocol for systematic review of epidemiological studies and impact of disease control interventions
Authors: Nana-Djeunga Hugues C. , Domche André , Niamsi-Emalio Yannick , Moungui Henri C. , Walker Martin , Basáñez Maria-Gloria , Kamgno Joseph
Published: February 2020

Background

Many control methods have been implemented to tackle onchocerciasis and great successes have been achieved, leading to a paradigm shift from control of morbidity to interruption of transmission and ultimately elimination. The mandate of the African Programme for Onchocerciasis Control (APOC) ended in 2015, and endemic countries are to plan and conduct elimination activities by themselves, with technical assistance by the Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (ESPEN). To this end, an elimination expert committee was set up in Cameroon in 2018. This committee identified the need to update the data on the current situation of onchocerciasis. The present study aims to systematically review and report all available epidemiological data, including prevalence, intensity and transmission of onchocerciasis to provide pertinent information that will be useful to design optimal strategies to achieve onchocerciasis elimination in Cameroon.

Methods

PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science will be searched from inception onwards. Grey literature will be identified through Google Scholar searches, dissertation databases and other relevant documents such as government reports. Eligible studies will be mostly observational, including cohort and cross-sectional surveys. No limitations will be imposed on publication status and study period. The primary outcomes will be (1) the prevalence and intensity ofOnchocerca volvulusinfection in humans, (2) transmission intensity and (3) impact of interventions on prevalence, intensity and transmission of onchocerciasis. Secondary outcomes will be environmental and socio-demographic factors supporting the primary outcomes. Two reviewers will independently screen all citations, full-text articles and abstract data. Potential conflicts will be resolved through discussion. Methodological quality including bias will be appraised using appropriate approaches. A narrative synthesis will describe quality and content of the epidemiological evidence. Prevalence and intensity of infection estimates will be stratified according to gender, age, geographical location and year of publication.

Discussion

This study will provide the health authorities as well as the scientific community with up-to-date information about the epidemiological situation of onchocerciasis in Cameroon. Understanding the spatiotemporal dynamics of the infection will help to define alternative and complementary strategies to accelerate onchocerciasis elimination in the country. Results of this review will also be used to update existing epidemiological models for onchocerciasis in order to fine-tune predictions of elimination timeframes in the country.

Systematic review registration

This protocol is under registration review in PROSPERO.
The role of hospital environment in transmissions of multidrug-resistant gram-negative organisms
Authors: Chia Po Ying , Sengupta Sharmila , Kukreja Anjanna , S.L. Ponnampalavanar Sasheela , Ng Oon Tek , Marimuthu Kalisvar
Published: February 2020

Infections by multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-negative organisms (GN) are associated with a high mortality rate and present an increasing challenge to the healthcare system worldwide. In recent years, increasing evidence supports the association between the healthcare environment and transmission of MDRGN to patients and healthcare workers. To better understand the role of the environment in transmission and acquisition of MDRGN, we conducted a utilitarian review based on literature published from 2014 until 2019.
Conjugate margins — An oversimplification of the complex southern North Atlantic rift and spreading system?
Authors: Peace Alexander L. , Kim Welford J.
Published: February 2020

The prevalence of conjugate margin terminology and studies in the scientific literature is testimony to the contribution that this concept and approach has made to the study of passive margins, and more broadly extensional tectonics. However, when applied to the complex rift, transform, and spreading system of the southern North Atlantic (i.e., the passive margins of Newfoundland, Labrador, Ireland, Iberia, and southern Greenland), it becomes obvious that at these passive continental margin settings, additional geologic phenomena complicate this convenient description. These aspects include (1) the preservation of relatively undeformed continental fragments, (2) formation of transform systems and oblique rifts, (3) triple junctions (with rift and spreading axes), (4) multiple failed rift axes, (5) postbreakup processes such as magmatism, (6) localized subduction, and (7) ambiguity in identification of oceanic isochrons. Comparison of two different published reconstructions of the region indicates the ambiguity in conducting conjugate margin studies. This demonstrates the need for a more pragmatic approach to the study of continental passive margin settings where a greater emphasis is placed on the inclusion of these possibly complicating features in palinspastic reconstructions, plate tectonics, and evolutionary models.
The Labor Market Integration of Refugee Migrants in High-Income Countries
Authors: Brell Courtney , Dustmann Christian , Preston Ian
Published: February 2020

We provide an overview of the integration of refugees into the labor markets of a number of high-income countries. Discussing the ways in which refugees and economic migrants are differently selected and so might be expected to perform differently in a host country’s labor market, we examine employment and wages for these groups over time after arrival. There is significant heterogeneity between host countries, but in general, refugees experience persistently worse outcomes than other migrants. While the gaps between the groups can be seen to decrease on a timescale of a decade or two, this is more pronounced in employment rates than it is in wages. We also discuss how refugees are distinct in terms of other factors affecting integration, including health, language skills, and social networks. We provide a discussion of insights for public policy in receiving countries, concluding that supporting refugees in early labor market attachment is crucial.
Investigation of the performance of a MicroMegas detector suitable for neutron-induced fission cross-section measurements
Authors: Diakaki M. , Kokkoris M. , Kyrtsos A. , Skordis E. , Vlastou R. , Nicolis N. G. , Lagoyannis A. , Andriamonje S. , Berthoumieux E.
Published: February 2020

The performance of a state-of-the-art MicroMegas detector, suitable for neutron- induced fission cross-section measurements has been examined. Special emphasis was put on the study of the gain and the resolution function.
One neutron transfer reactions around 68Ni: First results from the 66Ni(d,p)67Ni experiment
Authors: Patronis N. , MINIBALL Collaboration For the
Published: February 2020

First results from the 66Ni(d,p)67Ni experiment performed at REX-ISOLDE-CERN are presented. In this experiment, the newly built T-REX particle detection system was successfully coupled to the γ-ray MINIBALL detector array towards to a better understanding and studying of the single particle character of the neutron rich Ni isotopes.
Differential cross-section measurements for the 7Li(p,p0)7Li, 7Li(p,p1)7Li, 7Li(p,α0)4He, 19F(p,p0)19F, 19F(p,α0)16O and 19F(p,α1,2)16O reactions
Authors: Paneta V. , Lagoyannis A. , Kafkarkou A. , Kokkoris M.
Published: February 2020

Differential cross sections of the 7Li(p,p0)7Li, 7Li(p,p1)7Li, 7Li(p,α0)4He, 19F(p,p0), 19F(p,α0)16O and 19F(p,α1,2)16O reactions have been determined for proton energies Elab=1500-7000 keV, using a variable energy step and for detection angles between 140-170 degrees in steps of 10 degrees. To validate the obtained results, benchmarking measurements were performed, using thick and mirror-polished BaF2 and LiF targets. The experimental data are compared to data from literature, when available, and similarities and discrepancies are presented and analyzed.
Large Sample Neutron Activation Analysis for Cultural Heritage Studies
Authors: Vasilopoulou T. , Tzika F. , Stamatelatos I. E.
Published: February 2020

Large Sample Neutron Activation Analysis (LSNAA) is a non-destructive, multi-element analysis technique with a broad range of scientific and technological applications. Since both neutrons and gamma rays have penetration depths of the order of several centimeters within materials, depending on their energy and sample material properties, LSNAA enables non-destructive compositional analysis of the inner structure of large volume samples (up to several litters in volume). In this work, applications of LSNAA in cultural heritage studies are presented and the unique capabilities of the technique for bulk sample elemental analysis of precious and archaeological objects that need to be preserved intact and cannot be damaged for sampling purposes are discussed.
Radio-tracing techniques applied in a marine ecosystem, the case of a submarine groundwater source at southern Peloponnesus
Authors: Patiris D. L. , Eleftheriou G. , Karageorgis A. P. , Georgopoulos D. , Papadopoulos V. , Stamoulis K. , Ioannides K. G. , Vlastou R. , Tsabaris C.
Published: February 2020

The submarine discharge of groundwater (SGD) into the coastal zone has been recognized as an important component of the hydrological cycle. Quantities of groundwater flowing toward coastal aquifers are leaded under the seafloor and due to geomorphologic causes may discharge into the coastal zone. At some locations the quantity of the water is large enough to establish these springs as valuable water sources. The estimation of the submarine groundwater flux is complicated by conventional methods. Instead, measurements of a variety of radioisotopes (222Rn, 214Pb, 226Ra, 228Ra, 40K, 3H) as tracers provide a means to obtain integrated flux estimations as well as residence time, the age of the water and a factor of ground-sea water mixing process. Results from the current study at Stoupa’s (S. Peloponnesus) SGD source are presented revealing the importance of radio-tracing methods to the investigation of marine ecosystems.
Theoretical study of the isomeric cross section of the 197Au(n,2n) reaction
Authors: Tsinganis A. , Diakaki M. , Kokkoris M. , Lagoyannis A. , Papadopoulos C. T. , Vlastou R.
Published: February 2020

In the present work, the 197Au(n,2n) reaction cross section is studied within the framework of the Gen- eralized Superfluid Model (GSM). The cross sections for the population of the second isomeric state (12−) of 196Au and the sum of the ground (2−) and first isomeric state (5−) population cross sections were independently studied in the 8 to 25 MeV region with the use of the STAPRE-F, EMPIRE and TALYS codes, which were also compared in their implementation of the GSM. The theoretical results are compared with previous work in the same mass region and the strong dependence on the level scheme of the nuclei involved was revealed.
Neutrino scattering off the stable even-even Mo isotopes
Authors: Balasi K. G. , Kosmas T. S.
Published: February 2020

A systematic study of neutrino-nucleus reaction rates at low and intermediate energies are presented and discussed, focusing on the even-even Mo isotopes. Contributions coming from both the vector and axial-vector components of the corresponding hadronic currents have been included. The response of these detectors to supernova neutrino is also studied, by exploiting the above results and utilizing the folding procedure assuming a two parameter Fermi-Dirac distribution for the supernova neutrino energy-spectra.
Neutral current neutrino-94Mo scattering in the context of the QRPA method
Authors: Balasi K. G. , Kosmas T. S.
Published: February 2020

A systematic investigation of neutrino-nucleus reaction rates at low and intermediate energies of the stable 94Mo isotope is performed. Differential and integrated cross sections for neutrino inelastic scattering off the aforementioned target are calculated for neutrino energies εi ≼ 100 MeV. The nuclear wave functions for the initial and final nuclear states are constructed in the context of the quasi-particle random phase approximation (QRPA). The reliability of our method is tested by checking the reproducibility of the low-lying energy spectrum of the isotope under investigation.
SUSYQM in nuclear structure: Bohr Hamiltonian with mass depending on the deformation
Authors: Bonatsos D. , Georgoudis P. E. , Lenis D. , Minkov N. , Quesne C.
Published: February 2020

A well known problem of the Bohr Hamiltonian for the description of nuclear collective motion is that the nuclear moment of inertia increases with deformation too fast. We show that this can be avoided by allowing the nuclear mass to depend on the deformation. The resulting Hamiltonian is solved exactly, using techniques of Supersymmetric Quantum Mechanics
Influence of parasitic neutrons to the 176Hf(n,2n)175Hf reaction cross section
Authors: Vlastou R. , Kokkoris M. , Serris M. , Lambrou M. , Sofokleous L. , Diakaki M. , Tsinganis A. , Loisou V. , Lagoyannis A.
Published: February 2020

Cross sections for 176Hf(n,2n)175Hf reaction have been measured at the VdG Tandem accelerator of NCSR \Demokritos", in the neutron energy region from 8.80 to 11.02 MeV, using the activation technique. In order to account for the contamination of the 176Hf(n,2n)175Hf by the 174Hf(n,γ)175Hf reaction activated by the presence of parasitic neutrons, an experimental method has been developed based on the influence of the parasitic neutrons in the case of the (n,2n) and (n,γ) reactions on 197Au. The results were found to be consistent with the energy spectrum of the neutron beam which has been studied by means of the multiple foil activation analysis technique as well as by a liquid scintillator BC501A detector and subsequent deconvolution of its recoil energy spectra.
8B and hep solar neutrino detection by terrestrial experiments
Authors: Karathanou G. I. , Tsikoudi V. S. , Kosmas T. S.
Published: February 2020

Solar neutrino spectra of 8B and hep neutrinos produced by pp-chain reactions are analysed for various nuclear detectors in current terrestrial experiments. The well known folding method is applied by employing appropriately simulated solar neutrino distributions and using recently calculated total cross section of neutrino- nucleus processes. We focus on the nuclear target of current experiments like MOON and ICARUS as well to other promising nuclear isotopes.
Constraints on the inner edge of neutron star crusts from relativistic nuclear energy density functionals
Authors: Moustakidis Ch. C. , Niksic T. , Lalazissis G. A. , Vretenar D. , Ring P.
Published: February 2020

The transition density nt and pressure Pt at the inner edge between the liquid core and the solid crust of a neutron star are analyzed using the thermodynami- cal method and the framework of relativistic nuclear energy density functionals. Starting from a functional that has been carefully adjusted to experimental binding energies of finite nuclei, and varying the density dependence of the cor- responding symmetry energy within the limits determined by isovector prop- erties of finite nuclei, we estimate the constraints on the core-crust transition density and pressure of neutron stars: 0.086 fm−3 ≤ nt < 0.090 fm−3 and 0.3 MeV fm−3 < Pt ≤ 0.76 MeV fm−3 [1].
Gamma spectrometry technique for the determination of residence time in Submarine Groundwater Discharges
Authors: Eleftheriou G. , Tsabaris C. , Patiris D. L. , Androulakaki E. , Kokkoris M. , Vlastou R.
Published: February 2020

The evaluation of time period that meteoric water remains in the ground (residence time) before exiting in the open sea can be a valuable information for the submarine groundwater discharges (SGD) in the costal zones. Coastal waters contain elevated dissolved activities of radium isotopes compared to the open ocean, where excess activities are zero. Lately it has been shown by Moore et al., that residence time can be estimated by a model based on radium radioisotopes ratio reduction throughout the coast. However the standard methods for the estimation of radium isotopes concentration in the water are sophisticated, time consuming or require big amount of sample. Hereby, a method based on the direct gamma ray spectrometry of untreated water samples from coastal areas is applied to determine the residence time of the SGD. Efficiency calibration of the spectrometry set up has been performed for two different volumetric sample geometries, using 152Eu/154Eu solution as reference source. In order to ensure the reliability of the method, the background courting rate magnitude and variance through time have been defined for the radioisotopes of interest. Additionally, the minimum detectible activity (MDA) of the measuring system was determined, in Becquerel per cubic meter, as a function of energy in water samples. The developed method was applied and validated for water samples from the submarine spring in Stoupa Bay, southwestern Peloponnesus. The defined residence time varies from 3 to 6 days, being in good agreement with the results of the standard geological pigment-tracer method.
Towards applications of graded Paraparticle algebras
Authors: Kanakoglou K. , Hererra-Aguilar A.
Published: February 2020

An outline is sketched, of applications of the ideas and the mathematical methods presented at the 19th symposium of the Hnps in Thessaloniki, May 2010
A Small Field, High Resolution γ-Camera System dedicated to SPECT Imaging
Authors: Thanasas D. , Georgiou E. , Giokaris N. , Karabarbounis A. , Maintas D. , Mikeli M. , Papanicolas C. N. , Stiliaris E.
Published: February 2020

A small field, high resolution γ-Camera system dedicated to radiopharmaceutical research and other clinical SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography) applications is currently being developed in our group. The system is equipped with the 3” HAMAMATSU R2486 Position Sensitive PhotoMultiplier Tube (PSPMT) with a 16X+16Y-crossed wire anode and various pixelated and ho- mogeneous scintillation crystals. Planar images are created from the recorded charge signals by applying the resistive chain technique. The main part of this work focuses on the development of new correction methods for the improvement of the spatial resolution and the uniformity of the γ-Camera. The spatial distortion correction technique is based on lookup tables with the coordinates of reference points which are selected during the calibration phase of the system for a given set of collimator and scintillation crystal. The applied algorithm incorporates 2D-interpolation tech- niques and has been developed on a full automated graphics environment making use of the HIGZ (High Level Interface to Graphics and ZEBRA) program libraries from CERN. Both correction methods for the spatial distortion and non-uniformity have been applied to phantom images using several combinations of small capillaries filled with water solution of 99mTc. Comparative studies are shown on planar im- ages for different phantom geometries. The method is also extended to tomographic images and the obtained SPECT improvement in resolution is discussed.
Nucleosynthesis by accelerated particles in a bipolar Supernova explosion
Authors: Vernardos G. , Goriely S. , Lalazissis G.
Published: February 2020

The most spectacular final phase of an evolved star, is the supernova explosion. It has been suggested by observations that such an event might not be spherically symmetric. This asphericity could be explained by the formation of jets of accel- erated particles by the explosion, which could interact with the stellar matter and give rise to a possible nucleosynthesis. Such a nucleosynthesis is studied. The fi- nal abundance pattern is shown to depend on the values of the model parameters adopted, especially the energy spectrum of the accelerated particles.
Coherent and incoherent channels of neutrino-nucleus reactions
Authors: Divari P. C. , Kosmas T. S.
Published: February 2020

Inelastic neutrino-nucleus scattering cross sections at low and intermediate energies are investigated for currently interesting nuclei employed in neutrino-detection experiments. This is an extension to charged current processes of our previous QRPA calculations referred to neutral current neutrino/antineutrino-nucleus reactions. Our preliminary results for the reactions 56Fe(νe, e−)56Co and 40Ar(νe, e−)40K compare rather well with similar calculations obtained in the context of continuum RPA.
Probing the Nuclear Equation of State with Peripheral Heavy Ion Collisions at Fermi Energies
Authors: Souliotis G. A.
Published: February 2020

A systematic study of quasi-elastic and deep-inelastic collisions at Fermi energies is presented with the aim of obtaining insight into the underlying dynamics and the nuclear equation of state (EOS). Comparisons of experimental heavy-residue data to detailed calculations using the semiclassical microscopic model CoMD (Constrained Molecular Dynamics) are shown. The CoMD code implements an effective interac- tion with a nuclear-matter compressibility of K=200 (soft EOS) or K=380 (stiff EOS) with several forms of the density dependence of the nucleon-nucleon symmetry potential and imposes a constraint in the phase space occupation for each nucleon, restoring the Pauli principle during the collision. Preliminary results from these comparisons point to a soft equation of state (K=200) with a rather stiff density dependence of the isovector part (symmetry energy).
Search for exotic nuclear breakup configurations in Au+Au collisions
Authors: Sochocka A. , Benisz A. , Hachaj P. , Nicolis N. G. , Planeta R. , Starypan Z.
Published: February 2020

We study the feasibility of an experimental observation of toroidal breakup configurations in Au+Au collisions using the CHIMERA multidetector system. BUU simulations performed on the 197Au+197Au and 124Sn+124Sn systems indicate that the threshold energy for toroidal configuration formation decreases with increasing mass of the interacting system. For Au+Au collisions, this threshold energy is found around 20 MeV/nucleon. Static model simulations are also employed in order to explore the nature of reaction events involving a toroidal breakup configuration.
Relativistic Hartree Bogoliubov model with Density Dependent meson-nucleon couplings
Authors: Lalazissis G. A. , Niksic T. , Vretenar D. , Ring P.
Published: February 2020

A new improved relativistic mean-field effective interaction with explicit density dependence of the meson-nucleon couplings is proposed. The new effective interaction is called DD-ME2 and it is tested in Relativistic Hartree-Bogoliubov (RHB) and RPA calculations of nuclear ground-states and properties of excited states.
DISTRIBUTION OF MAXIMA OF THE ANTISYMMETRIZED WAVE FUNCTION FOR THE NUCLEONS OF A CLOSED-SHELL AND FOR THE NUCLEONS OF ALL CLOSED-SHELLS IN A NUCLEUS.
Authors: Anagnostatos G. S.
Published: February 2020

The significant features of exchange symmetry are displayed by simple systems such as two identical, spinless fermions in a one-dimensional well with infinite walls. The conclusion is that the maxima of probability of the antisymmetrized wave function of these two fermions lie at the same positions as if a repulsive force (of unknown nature) was applied between these two fermions. This conclusion is combined with the solution of a mathematical problem dealing with the equilibrium of identical repulsive particles (of one or two kinds) on one or more spheres like neutrons and protons on nuclear shells. Such particles are at equilibrium only for specific numbers of particles and, in addition, if these particles lie on the vertices of regular polyhedra or their derivative polyhedra. Finally, this result leads to a pictorial representation of the structure of all closed shell nuclei. This representation could be used as a laboratory for determining nuclear properties and corresponding wave functions.
A Global Model of β−-Decay Half-Lives Using Neural Networks
Authors: Costiris N. , Mavrommatis E. , Gernoth K. A. , Clark J. W.
Published: February 2020

Statistical modeling of nuclear data using artificial neural networks (ANNs) and, more re- cently, support vector machines (SVMs), is providing novel approaches to systematics that are complementary to phenomenological and semi-microscopic theories. We present a global model of β−-decay halflives of the class of nuclei that decay 100% by β− mode in their ground states. A fully-connected multilayered feed forward network has been trained using the Levenberg- Marquardt algorithm, Bayesian regularization, and cross-validation. The halflife estimates gen- erated by the model are discussed and compared with the available experimental data, with previous results obtained with neural networks, and with estimates coming from traditional global nuclear models. Predictions of the new neural-network model are given for nuclei far from stability, with particular attention to those involved in r-process nucleosynthesis. This study demonstrates that in the framework of the β−-decay problem considered here, global models based on ANNs can at least match the predictive performance of the best conventional global models rooted in nuclear theory. Accordingly, such statistical models can provide a valuable tool for further mapping of the nuclidic chart.
Mastering the Skills of Semantic Reading As a Result of Teaching Younger Schoolchildren
Authors: Vinogradova Natalya
Published: February 2020

The article describes the semantic reading, considered as the main component of communicative functional literacy, the mastery of which

includes both subject and meta-subject learning outcomes of primary schoolchildren. The features of the methodology of teaching semantic

reading at different stages of school education are revealed. Examples of tasks that contribute to the development of semantic reading skills in

schoolchildren studying in the fourth grades are given.
Motivating Supplier Social Responsibility Under Incomplete Visibility
Authors: Kraft Tim , Valdés León , Zheng Yanchong
Published: February 2020

Problem definition: We examine how a profit-driven firm (she) can motivate better social responsibility (SR) practices by a supplier (he) when these practices cannot be perfectly observed by the firm. We focus on the firm’s investment in the supplier’s SR capabilities. To capture the influence of consumer demands, we incorporate the potential for SR information to be disclosed by the firm or revealed by a third party. Academic/practical relevance: Most firms have limited visibility into the SR practices of their suppliers. However, there is little research on how a firm under incomplete visibility should (i) invest to improve a supplier’s SR practices and (ii) disclose SR information to consumers. We address this gap. Methodology: We develop a game-theoretic model with asymmetric information to study a supply chain with one supplier and one firm. The firm makes her investment decision given incomplete information about the supplier’s current SR practices. We analyze and compare two settings: the firm does not disclose versus she discloses SR information to the consumers. Results: The firm should invest a high (low) amount in the supplier’s capabilities if the information she observes suggests the supplier’s current SR practices are poor (good). She should always be more aggressive with her investment when disclosing (versus not disclosing). This more aggressive strategy ensures better supplier SR practices under disclosure. When choosing between disclosing and not disclosing, the firm most likely prefers not to disclose when the supplier’s current SR practices seem to be average. Managerial implications: (i) Greater visibility helps the firm to better tailor her investment to the level of support needed. (ii) Better visibility also makes the firm more “truthful” in her disclosure, whereas increased third-party scrutiny makes her more “cautious.” (iii) Mandating disclosure is most beneficial for SR when the suppliers’ current practices seem to be average.
Universal simplicity? The alleged simplicity of Universal Credit from administrative and claimant perspectives
Authors: Summers Kate , Young David
Published: February 2020

A key aim of Universal Credit is to simplify the social security system. While several aspects of its introduction have received critical attention, this overarching aim continues to receive acceptance and support. Drawing on two empirical studies involving means-tested benefit claimants, we aim to deconstruct the idea of ‘simplicity’ as a feature of social security design and argue that it is contingent on perspective. We suggest that claims of simplicity can often be justified from an administrative perspective but are not experienced as such from the perspective of claimants, who instead can face greater responsibility for managing complexity.
The functionality of affects: conceptualising far-right populist politics beyond negative emotions
Authors: Leser Julia , Spissinger Florian
Published: February 2020

By focusing on negative affects, such as anger, fear and hate, a normative critique of affective politics tends to overlook the ambiguity and situated nature of affective politics. This paper suggests embracing the ambivalences that characterise the emotional dynamics in political arenas; therefore, it emphasises the functionality of affects. The study adopts a post-dualistic understanding of political affects based on the conceptual devices of Sara Ahmed and Kathleen Stewart to analyse the affective practices and performances of the German political party Alternative für Deutschland (AfD). An ethnographic lens and analytical focus on the affective politics of far-right agents beyond negativity can permit more subtle nuances and highlight potentially overlooked facets of enactment and performance that have contributed to the successes of far-right political organisations in Europe and the US. The paper ultimately argues that the use of ‘ordinary’ affects produces legitimacy, renders far-right politics appealing and contributes to the normalisation of far-right discourse.
Creación, gestión y análisis de un bot en bibliotecas académicas.
Authors: Kane Danielle
Published: February 2020

Part 1 of this paper discusses how to create and manage an academic library chatbot, including the type of statistics that should be kept and the importance of regularly reviewing transcripts. Created in 2014, the chatbot in question has been developed to the point where, on average, it correctly answers library questions 70% of the time. Part 2 is an analysis of over 10,000 submitted sentences (questions and statements). The analysis used UAM CorpusTool to create layers and code transcripts according to sentence structure, opening and closing statements, showing interest, and types of service and materials requested. While the library chatbot is clearly marked as being a computer program, a number of people regularly treat the chatbot as human and hold long non-library related conversations with it.
Changing with the times: the library at Tecnológico de Monterrey, Monterrey Campus.
Authors: Maya Ortega Yolanda
Published: February 2020

Libraries provide a stage for learning, creating and sharing experience; and both library services and the information professionals in charge of them are changing with the times, just as our educational systems are, offering us new ways to acquire knowledge.
Debating the Jinn: Making and unmaking of the invisible beings in the discursive tradition of Malabar
Authors: Chenganakkattil Muhamed Riyaz
Published: February 2020

This article is an addition to the culture of 'debate as performance' in the Indian subcontinent as a research on the theological arguments through texts and performances on the existence of invisible creatures. It locates the space of the debates in Malabar, which has a long history of argumentative tradition. This article suggests that (in)visibility is the central point of contestation when one analyses the debating culture on Jinns. Textual representation of arguments and performance on the stage are two spaces where we can analytically explore the cases. The Jinn debate has undergone transitions in its development towards a core ideological point in Malabar. How do proponents and opponents corroborate their arguments based on texts or the logical understanding? When has this practice begun? Who were the leading Jinn debaters in Malabar? Malabar, as a discursive space for debates, has contributed to the making and unmaking of Jinns in the region. It is obvious that these debates were performative events, as a performance of the pure religion, and as a performative moment for distinctions for each ideology from the other.
Anticipation of Emerging Disease Mycoplasma bovis: Control and Countermeasures
Authors: Rachmawati Faidah , Purba Hastuti Handayani S , Noor Susan M
Published: February 2020

Mycoplasma bovis is one of the pathogens, causes respiratory, reproductive, mastitis and arthritis disorders in cattle. Due to the economic impact of this disease, Mycoplasma bovis must be free on farms. There are no pathognomonic symptoms of Mycoplasma infection, so it needs laboratory confirmation to diagnose. Many countries have routinely examined M. bovis on cases of mastitis, arthritis, pneumonia and reproductive disorders. There was no cases of respiratory disorder in cattle related to M. bovis infection reported in Indonesia. The fact that, in many countries almost that cases related to the presence of M. bovis. The presence of M. bovis in Indonesia should be investigated, considering that Indonesia imports cattle from Australia and New Zealand that expose to M. bovis. This paper discusses the incidence of M. bovis infection in many countries including its economic impact, clinical symptoms, and method of diagnosis and control of disease to anticipate the emergence of this disease in Indonesia.
Mudanças na rotina profissional de mulheres jornalistas devido ao assédio sexual, verbal e moral
Authors: Campagna Tatiane Gonsales , Kutzke Letícia Paula
Published: February 2020

As mudanças ocorridas no mercado de trabalho, principalmente oriundas do pós-fordismo, mudaram as relações de trabalho. Com isso, episódios de assédio ocorridos nas rotinas de trabalho passam a ganhar notoriedade em estudos e noticiários – e com as mulheres jornalistas não é diferente, desencadeando em campanhas como “#jornalistascontraoassedio”. Assim, fora feita pesquisa com 181 mulheres jornalistas a fim de compreender se há algum tipo de alteração no exercício de suas profissões após sofrerem assédio, seja este verbal, moral ou sexual. Como resultado, tem-se que a maioria sofreu assédio e, apesar de retratarem, de forma objetiva em questionário, que tal fato em nada modificou o modo de fazerem jornalismo, seus depoimentos espontâneos e anônimos mostram mudanças de comportamento, setores e até de carreira.
Educação™: discussões sobre o “Novo Ensino Médio” do Brasil
Authors: Ferreira Luan
Published: February 2020

A sociedade atual é chamada por muitos de “neoliberal”, sendo marcada pela reprodução de uma razão empresarial em busca da propagação de interesses do mercado em diversas esferas. Nesse sentido, este artigo propõe debater como a dimensão da educação se insere neste contexto, refletindo sobre obstáculos e desafios para se realizar um ensino transformador. Propõe-se investigar o “Novo Ensino Médio” anunciado no governo Temer em 2017, assumindo como hipótese que a formulação desta política possa ser compreendida com maior profundidade ao apresentarmos indícios da existência de algumas redes relacionais entre governo e setor privado. Na pesquisa, analisamos a proposta enunciada em relação com a de outros dois grupos – Itaú Unibanco e Instituto Inspirare – pela perspectiva das redes, o que nos levou a discutir sobre o lugar do Movimento Pela Base Nacional Comum e seus anseios.
Educação em tempo integral e programa mais educação: soluções locais para questões gerais?
Authors: Coelho Lígia Martha , Guilarducci Raphael , Mól Saraa
Published: February 2020

Este ensaio problematiza ‘soluções locais’ implantadas por dois municípios mineiros, a partir da indução pelo programa federal ‘Mais Educação’ (PME), implementado entre 2008 e 2014. Realizamos uma pesquisa bibliográfica a partir dos conceitos educação em tempo integral e indução, e pesquisa documental ancorada em dispositivos normativos federais e municipais. A primeira seção evidencia o conceito de educação em tempo integral subjacente ao PME e em sua política indutora, enquanto a segunda apresenta os desenhos de cada experiência, a partir da indução do Programa. Nas Considerações, apresentamos limites e possibilidades da indução da educação integral em tempo integral na contemporaneidade.
Apresentação
Authors: Souza Ediléia Alves Mendes
Published: February 2020

O escopo deste dossiê, com foco nas políticas públicas de educação em tempo integral, é dialogar com diferentes nuances do tema em tela, presentes na realidade do sistema de ensino do Brasil. Sem a pretensão de concluir discussões, na coleção de artigos que o compõe abre-se o debate para reflexões em torno dos principais aspectos que envolvem a elaboração, implantação, desenvolvimento e efetividade de programas, projetos e propostas dessa natureza, passando pelo embasamento teórico e legal até algumas práticas cotidianas das escolas.  As políticas públicas de educação em tempo integral no Brasil se inserem no contexto de um Estado liberal, marcado por um sistema social desigual e excludente que favorece interesses das classes dominantes. Com o fortalecimento da globalização e a crescente expansão capitalista, sobretudo a partir da década de 1990, se radicalizou a adoção de políticas de cunho neoliberal pautadas por medidas que defendem, por exemplo, a diminuição da intervenção do Estado na garantia de serviços públicos como saúde, educação e segurança. Tais medidas se aprofundaram em governos como o de Fernando Collor de Mello (1990-1992) e Itamar Augusto Cautiero Franco (1992-1994), mas, sobretudo no de Fernando Henrique Cardoso (1995-2002), o qual, de acordo com a literatura correlata, escancarou a economia brasileira à privatização.
Educação em tempo integral no Brasil: rupturas, avanços, permanências e desafios de uma política pública no contexto escolar
Authors: Souza Ediléia Alves Mendes , Muñoz Palafox Gabriel Humberto , Silva Maria Vieira , França Robson Luiz de
Published: February 2020

Na presente entrevista, por meio do diálogo estabelecido com uma professora engajada na  luta em defesa da educação pública, propõe-se a fazer uma análise a respeito da educação integral em tempo integral. Para tal abordou-se alguns dos principais aspectos que influenciam na implementação e desenvolvimento dessa política no contexto escolar brasileiro. As reflexões contribuem para fomentar a crítica em torno de concepções vigentes, da estrutura, da legislação, ressaltando-se rupturas, avanços e lacunas que ainda persistem. O balanço analítico em torno da experiência dos Ciep, no Rio de Janeiro nas décadas de 1980/1990, coloca em discussão os limites e desafios dessa política e ao mesmo tempo resgata-a enquanto possibilidade de melhoria do ensino público promovendo maior igualdade educacional visto que permite ampliar as experiências formativas dos alunos, sobretudo das camadas populares.
IMPLIKASI KERUSUHAN 1999 TERHADAP INTERAKSI SOSIAL KEAGAMAAN ETNIS MELAYU DAN MADURA DI KALIMANTAN BARAT
Authors: Wahyudhi Syukron
Published: February 2020

Indonesia is a country that has diversity of ethnicities and religions. The diversity makes Indonesia known as a multicultural nation. However, the plurality that is rooted in them does not always lead to good. It is West Kalimantan, one of some regions that has a bitter history because it has repeatedly experienced ethnic violence. This theme is important to be researched for conflict is part of the human civilization history. If the conflict can be managed well, it will make both territory and society being grown up. But when conflict comes to violence and even murder, it becomes a historical wound that is hard to wiped out. In this research the researcher concentrates on a riot between ethnic Malay and ethnic Madura in 1999. The riot is interesting to be discussed by the researcher bacause the both ethnicities have a same religious background, Islam; even in term of religious culture, it is not much different. This research is a field study using the theory of Bikhu Parekh  Multiculturalism. The problem statements in this reasearch are, first, what is the factor in the riot between ethnic Malay and Madura? Second, how are the implications toward socio-religious interaction between the both ethnicities nowadays? From the result of this research, it can be concluded that; First, it is an accumulation of ethnic Malay anger against ethnic Madura which for so long is viewed as often violates traditional and religious norms. Second, the riot becomes historical wound because it is implicated in sentiment and stereotypes between the two ethnic groups. According to the provident researcher, there should be some continuous efforts from the religious and traditional figures of both ethnics group as an endeavor to allay the sentiment and stereotypes in the society, in order to establish the harmony between ethnic Malay and ethnic Madura in Sambas and Singkawang. Keywords: Malay-Madura Riot, Social Interaction, and Multiculturalism.
BRAZILIAN AIRPORTS NETWORK EVALUATION
Authors: PEREIRA DEIVISON DA SILVEIRA , SOARES DE MELLO JOAO CARLOS CORREIA BAPTISTA
Published: February 2020

Goal: This paper presents an analysis of the Brazilian air network based on the measure of h centrality.

Design / Methodology / Approach: The purpose of this study is to define and determine the central network using the concepts of h-centrality. Method adapted from graph theory concepts with bibliometrics, especially the h-index. From the center of this index will be listed the most used airports to define the Brazilian central network and thus determinate the type h-index of Brazil.

Results: The main airports in the results represent more than 50% of the homologated flights in Brazil.

Practical implications: This model of air flight frequencies assists in public policy guidelines and planning both in air traffic control and in the verification of system impacts.

Originality / Value: The method seeks to provide the list with main important airports without any prior definition by a decision maker.