bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Untraceable and Anonymous Mobile Payment Scheme Based on Near Field Communication
Authors: Tso Raylin
Published: December 2018

With the developments of mobile communications, M-commerce has become increasingly popular in recent years. However, most M-commerce schemes ignore user anonymity during online transactions. As a result, user transactions may easily be traced by shops, banks or by Internet Service Providers (ISPs). To deal with this problem, we introduce a new anonymous mobile payment scheme in this paper. Our new scheme has the following features: (1) Password-based authentication: authentication of users is done by low-entropy password; (2) Convenience: the new scheme is designed based on near field communication (NFC)-enabled devices and is compatible with EuroPay, MasterCard and Visa (EMV-compatible); (3) Efficiency: users do not need to have their own public/private key pairs and confidentiality is achieved via symmetric-key cryptography; (4) Anonymity: users use virtual accounts in the online shopping processes, thereby preventing attackers from obtaining user information even if the transaction is eavesdropped; (5) Untraceablity: no one (even the bank, Trusted Service Manager (TSM), or the shop) can trace a transaction and link the real identity with the buyer of a transaction; (6) Confidentiality and authenticity: all the transaction is either encrypted or signed by the sender so our new scheme can provide confidentiality and authenticity. We also present the performance and the security comparison of our scheme with other schemes. The results show that our scheme is applicable and has the most remarkable features among the existing schemes.
Some Fixed-Point Theorems in b-Dislocated Metric Space and Applications
Authors: Sumati Kumari Panda , Alqahtani Obaid , Karapınar Erdal
Published: December 2018

In this article, we prove some fixed-point theorems in b-dislocated metric space. Thereafter, we propose a simple and efficient solution for a non-linear integral equation and non-linear fractional differential equations of Caputo type by using the technique of fixed point.
Triangular Fuzzy Number-Typed Fuzzy Cooperative Games and Their Application to Rural E-Commerce Regional Cooperation and Profit Sharing
Authors: Zhao Wen-Jian , Liu Jia-Cai
Published: December 2018

The primary aim of this paper is to develop one kind of easy and effective method to solve fuzzy cooperative games with coalition values expressed by triangular fuzzy numbers (TFNs). This method ensures that each player should receive a TFN-typed fuzzy pay-off from the grand coalition because each coalition value is expressed by a TFN. Using the concept of Alpha-cut sets, an arbitrary TFN’s Alpha-cut set can be shown as an interval. If the 1-cut sets and 0-cut sets of the TFN-typed coalition values are known, we can easily gain some important values, such as the means, the lower limits, and the upper limits of the TFN-typed payoffs via the proposed quadratic programming models and method. Furthermore, it is also easy for us to compute the lower and upper limits of Alpha-cut sets at any confidence levels of the TFN-typed payoffs for any TFN-typed cooperative game through solving the constructed quadratic programming models. Hereby the players’ TFN-typed payoffs for the TFN-typed cooperative game can be explicitly solved via the representation theorem for fuzzy sets. It is easy to prove that the proposed solutions of the fuzzy cooperative games with coalition values expressed by TFNs satisfy some useful and important properties, such as symmetry, additivity, and anonymity. Finally, the validity, applicability and advantages of the proposed method is proved and discussed through a numerical example.
Synthesis of a Novel Chiral Stationary Phase by (R)-1,1′-Binaphthol and the Study on Mechanism of Chiral Recognition
Authors: Wang Yongxi , Liu Dandan , Zhang Yili , Tang Yanmei , Zhao Jingfeng , Shen Baochun
Published: December 2018

(R)-6-Acrylic-BINOL CSP, a novel chiral stationary phase was prepared by (R)-Binaphthol (R-BINOL) by introducing the acrylic group into the 6-position of (R)-BINOL before bonding it to the surface of silica gel. The structure of the CSP was characterized by IR, SEM, and element analysis. This new material was tested for its potential as a CSP for HPLC under normal phase conditions, especially for conjugated compounds. Six solutes were chosen to evaluate the chiral separation ability of the novel CSP. The effects of the mobile phase and temperature on enantioseparation were studied, and the chiral recognition mechanism was also discussed. The results showed that the space adaptability and π-π stacking between the solutes and the CSP affected the retention and enantioseparation. The Van’t Hoff curve indicated that under the experimental conditions, the separation mechanism of six solutes did not change, which were all enthalpy driven.
Trading off Network Density with Frequency Spectrum for Resource Optimization in 5G Ultra-Dense Networks
Authors: Koudouridis Georgios P. , Soldati Pablo
Published: December 2018

To effectively increase the capacity in 5G wireless networks requires more spectrum and denser network deployments. However, due to the increasing network density, the coordination of network and spectrum management becomes a challenging task both within a single operator’s network and among multiple operators’ networks. In this article, we develop new radio resource management (RRM) algorithms for adapting the frequency spectrum and the density of active access nodes in 5G ultra-dense networks (UDNs) to the traffic load and the user density in different geographical areas of the network. To this end, we formulate a network optimization problem where the allocation of spectrum bandwidth and the density of active access nodes are optimized to minimize a joint cost function, and we exploit Lagrange duality techniques to develop provably optimal network-scheduling algorithms. In particular, we develop density algorithms for two application scenarios. The first scenario solves the resource management problem for an operator of an ultra-dense network with exclusive access to a pool of frequency resources, while the second scenario applies to the management of the network density of collocated UDNs that belong to multiple operators sharing the same frequency spectrum. Simulation results demonstrate how effectively the algorithms can adapt the allocation of the spectrum allocation and the density of active access nodes over space and time.
Ontogenetic Change in the Venom of Mexican Black-Tailed Rattlesnakes (Crotalus molossus nigrescens)
Authors: Borja Miguel , Neri-Castro Edgar , Pérez-Morales Rebeca , Strickland Jason L. , Ponce-López Roberto , Parkinson Christopher L. , Espinosa-Fematt Jorge , Sáenz-Mata Jorge , Flores-Martínez Esau , Alagón Alejandro , Castañeda-Gaytán Gamaliel
Published: December 2018

Ontogenetic changes in venom composition have important ecological implications due the relevance of venom in prey acquisition and defense. Additionally, intraspecific venom variation has direct medical consequences for the treatment of snakebite. However, ontogenetic changes are not well documented in most species. The Mexican Black-tailed Rattlesnake (Crotalus molossus nigrescens) is large-bodied and broadly distributed in Mexico. To document venom variation and test for ontogenetic changes in venom composition, we obtained venom samples from twenty-seven C. m. nigrescens with different total body lengths (TBL) from eight states in Mexico. The primary components in the venom were detected by reverse-phase HPLC, western blot, and mass spectrometry. In addition, we evaluated the biochemical (proteolytic, coagulant and fibrinogenolytic activities) and biological (LD50 and hemorrhagic activity) activities of the venoms. Finally, we tested for recognition and neutralization of Mexican antivenoms against venoms of juvenile and adult snakes. We detected clear ontogenetic venom variation in C. m. nigrescens. Venoms from younger snakes contained more crotamine-like myotoxins and snake venom serine proteinases than venoms from older snakes; however, an increase of snake venom metalloproteinases was detected in venoms of larger snakes. Venoms from juvenile snakes were, in general, more toxic and procoagulant than venoms from adults; however, adult venoms were more proteolytic. Most of the venoms analyzed were hemorrhagic. Importantly, Mexican antivenoms had difficulties recognizing low molecular mass proteins (<12 kDa) of venoms from both juvenile and adult snakes. The antivenoms did not neutralize the crotamine effect caused by the venom of juveniles. Thus, we suggest that Mexican antivenoms would have difficulty neutralizing some human envenomations and, therefore, it may be necessary improve the immunization mixture in Mexican antivenoms to account for low molecular mass proteins, like myotoxins.
(q, σ, τ)-Differential Graded Algebras
Authors: Abramov Viktor , Liivapuu Olga , Makhlouf Abdenacer
Published: December 2018

We propose the notion of ( q , σ , τ ) -differential graded algebra, which generalizes the notions of ( σ , τ ) -differential graded algebra and q-differential graded algebra. We construct two examples of ( q , σ , τ ) -differential graded algebra, where the first one is constructed by means of the generalized Clifford algebra with two generators (reduced quantum plane), where we use a ( σ , τ ) -twisted graded q-commutator. In order to construct the second example, we introduce the notion of ( σ , τ ) -pre-cosimplicial algebra.
Regular Solutions in Higher-Derivative Gravity
Authors: Giacchini Breno L. , De Paula Netto Tibério
Published: December 2018

Local gravitational theories with more than four derivatives can have remarkable quantum properties. Namely, they can be super-renormalizable and may be unitary in the Lee-Wick sense, if the massive poles of the propagator are complex. It is important, therefore, to also explore the classical aspects of these theories. In this talk we present recent results in this direction. Specifically, we discuss the effect that that higher-order terms can have on the Newtonian potential and related singularities.
Persistence and Sexual Transmission of Filoviruses
Authors: Schindell Brayden G. , Webb Andrew L. , Kindrachuk Jason
Published: December 2018

There is an increasing frequency of reports regarding the persistence of the Ebola virus (EBOV) in Ebola virus disease (EVD) survivors. During the 2014–2016 West African EVD epidemic, sporadic transmission events resulted in the initiation of new chains of human-to-human transmission. Multiple reports strongly suggest that these re-emergences were linked to persistent EBOV infections and included sexual transmission from EVD survivors. Asymptomatic infection and long-term viral persistence in EVD survivors could result in incidental introductions of the Ebola virus in new geographic regions and raise important national and local public health concerns. Alarmingly, although the persistence of filoviruses and their potential for sexual transmission have been documented since the emergence of such viruses in 1967, there is limited knowledge regarding the events that result in filovirus transmission to, and persistence within, the male reproductive tract. Asymptomatic infection and long-term viral persistence in male EVD survivors could lead to incidental transfer of EBOV to new geographic regions, thereby generating widespread outbreaks that constitute a significant threat to national and global public health. Here, we review filovirus testicular persistence and discuss the current state of knowledge regarding the rates of persistence in male survivors, and mechanisms underlying reproductive tract localization and sexual transmission.
High-Throughput Sequencing Reveals Cyclamen persicum Mill. as a Natural Host for Fig Mosaic Virus
Authors: Elbeaino Toufic , Marais Armelle , Faure Chantal , Trioano Elisa , Candresse Thierry , Parrella Giuseppe
Published: December 2018

In a search for viral infections, double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) were recovered from a diseased cyclamen (Cyclamen persicum Mill.) accession (Cic) and analyzed by high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technology. Analysis of the HTS data showed the presence of Fig mosaic emaravirus (FMV) in this accession. The complete sequences of six FMV-Cic RNA genomic segments were determined from the HTS data and using Sanger sequencing. All FMV-Cic RNA segments are similar in size to those of FMV from fig (FMV-Gr10), with the exception of RNA-6 that is one nucleotide longer. The occurrence of FMV in cyclamen was investigated through a small-scale survey, from which four plants (out of 18 tested) were found RT-PCR positive. To study sequence variations of cyclamen isolates of FMV, RT-PCR products generated through the amplification of the partially RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp, RNA-1), glycoprotein (GP, RNA-2), and nucleocapsid (NCP, RNA-3) genes were explored. The nucleotide sequence identities for cyclamen isolates ranged between 86% and 99% in RNA-1, 93% and 99% in RNA-2, and 98% and 99% in RNA-3, while lower identity levels were observed with the sequences of fig isolates. Based on the phylogenetic tree obtained with a 304-nt fragment of RNA3, all FMV isolates from cyclamens were assigned to a single cluster close to fig isolates from the Mediterranean. FMV was graft-transmitted to healthy cyclamens eliciting symptoms similar to those observed in the Cic accession, thus suggesting a causal role of FMV in the symptoms that prompted the investigation. This is the first report of FMV in a non-fig host, Cyclamen persicum, a finding that may help in the control of the mosaic and mosaic-like diseases of fig and cyclamen, respectively.
Biostability of Tap Water—A Qualitative Analysis of Health Risk in the Example of Groundwater Treatment (Semi-Technical Scale)
Authors: Domoń Andżelika , Papciak Dorota , Tchórzewska-Cieślak Barbara , Pietrucha-Urbanik Katarzyna
Published: December 2018

This article presents results of research which aimed to assess the impact of biofiltration processing on the biological stability of water. Effectiveness of biogenic substances removal (C, N, P) and bacteriological quality of water after the biofiltration process were discussed. The research was carried out on a semi-technical scale on natural underground water rich in organic compounds. A filter with a biologically active carbon (BAC) bed was used for the research. Despite the low water temperature of between 9–12 °C, there was a high efficiency of organic matter removal—33–70%. The number of mesophilic and psychrophilic bacteria in the water before and after the biofiltration process was comparable (0–23 CFU/mL) and met the requirements for drinking water. No E. coli was detected in the water samples. The biological material washed out of the filter bed did not cause deterioration of water quality which proved that the operating parameters of the biofilters were properly chosen, i.e., contact time of 30 min, filtration speed up to 3 m/h. Reduction of the content of nutrients in the treated water limits the risk of microbial growth and thus the emergence of biological growth in the distribution system.
Quantifying the Effects of Dramatic Changes in Runoff and Sediment on the Channel Morphology of a Large, Wandering River Using Remote Sensing Images
Authors: Xie Zhehui , Huang Heqing , Yu Guoan , Zhang Min
Published: December 2018

The Yellow River (Huanghe River), which is the second largest river in China, has experienced dramatic changes in both runoff and sediment over the last 60 years. To quantify the effects on the channel morphology of the wandering reach on the Lower Yellow River (LYR), this study extracts morphological indices from Landsat imageries taken between 1979 and 2015. Over the dynamically adjusting complex channel-floodplain system, the spatial distribution of NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) is found helpful for identifying the wandering belt created by the frequent migrations of the pathways of the main flow, which are determined from the reflection of the sediment-laded water body in remote sensing images taken at low flows. The extracted results show clearly that the average width and area of the wandering belt over the entire study reach declined in a dramatic fashion between 1979 and 2000 and yet both varied respectively within very narrow ranges from 2000 to 2015. Although the number of bends increased significantly since the 1990s, the sinuosity of the pathways of the main flow remained almost unchanged. By combining the morphological indices extracted from the remote sensing images with field hydrological and geomorphological measurements, our regression analysis identifies that the width of the wandering belt changes at the highest degree of correspondence with the width/depth ratio of the main channel and the variations of both are related most closely to the average flow discharge and then to sediment concentration during the flood seasons. These implicate that a significant reduction of the magnitude of floods and sediment concentration is beneficial not only for making the main channel transit from a wider and shallower cross-section into a narrower and deeper profile but also for narrowing the wandering range of the LYR.
Response of Physiological Indicators to Environmental Factors under Water Level Regulation of Paddy Fields in Southern China
Authors: Xiao Menghua , Li Yuanyuan , Lu Bin , Miao Zimei
Published: December 2018

Agricultural water level control is the key to the combined control of water-saving irrigation and controlled drainage. It is easy to observe and master in farmland practice, and has important theoretical and practical significance. In this paper, a systematic study on stomatal regulation and photosynthetic-evapotranspiration coupling mechanism, as well as the effect of meteorological environmental factors on photosynthetic-evapotranspiration coupling mechanism of paddy rice in drought and flooding conditions was conducted by taking paddy field’s water level as a regulation indicator of paddy rice’s irrigation and drainage. Results showed that net photosynthetic rate (Pn) and evapotranspiration rate (Tr) had quadratic and linear relationship with stomatal conductance (Gs), respectively. The responding range of Gs in drought condition was lower than that in flooding condition. Drought stress aggravated the photosynthetic stomatal limitation of rice leaves at noon, and partial closure of stomata was the main reason resulting in the reduction of Pn suffering from drought at noon. Change curve of paddy rice’s leaf temperature difference (ΔT) showed a W or V type daily change curve and its change rule was rightly contrary to that of Tr. Pn had quadratic curve relationships with photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) and surrounding CO2 concentration (Cs) both in the morning and in the afternoon, Pn had quadratic curve relationships in the morning and linear relationships in the afternoon with air temperature (Ta), respectively. Tr showed linear relationships with PAR, Ta, relative air humidity (RH) and barometric pressure saturation deficit (VPD).
Accounting for the Spatio-Temporal Variability of Pollutant Processes in Stormwater TSS Modeling Based on Stochastic Approaches
Authors: Al Ali Saja , Rodriguez Fabrice , Bonhomme Céline , Chebbo Ghassan
Published: December 2018

Stormwater quality modeling remains one of the most challenging issues in urban hydrology today. The processes involved in contaminant generation and transport are very complex, with many associated uncertainties, including uncertainty arising from process variability. In this study, the spatio-temporal variability of build-up/wash-off processes in a heterogeneous urban catchment within the Parisian region is assessed based on three stochastic modeling approaches integrated into the physically based distributed hydrological model, the Urban Runoff Branching Structure (URBS) model. Results demonstrate that accounting for process variability at the scale of a hydrological element is important for analyzing the contamination recorded at the catchment outlet. The intra-event dynamics of total suspended solids (TSS) were most accurately selected for the stochastic exponential SWMM model, as this model succeeded not only in simulating the general trend of TSS concentrations fluctuations but also in replicating multiple peaks observed in pollutographs. The advantage of this approach is that it captures the stochastic nature of the processes with minimal prior knowledge and without extensive calibration, though further enhancement is necessary for it to become a useful tool to support decision making.
Chambre Debye et Scherrer adaptée à l'étude des couches sub-superficielles par la méthode de l'émergence rasante
Authors: Legrand Ch.
Published: December 2018

Description d'une chambre Debye et Scherrer en retour à incidence variable. Le montage géométrique et le choix d'un collimateur à fente de 0,2 mm. permettent d'observer le dédoublement Kα₁ Kα₂ pour des angles de Bragg de 30°. Discussion du pouvoir résolutif. Exemples d'applications de cette chambre.
Action des solutions alcalines sur le quartz et sur la silice fondue sous pression de vapeur saturée
Authors: Franke Immanuel
Published: December 2018

Étude de l'action de la soude et de diverses solutions alcalines sur le quartz et sur la silice fondue.

Sur le quartz sous pression de vapeur saturée on obtient des silicates de soude liquides ou, pour de fortes concentrations, du disilicate de soude anhydre cristallisé.

Sur la silice fondue pour de très faibles concentrations (au-dessous de 0,004 N) on obtient de la cristobalite ; pour des concentrations plus fortes on constate la formation de géodes tapissées de cristaux de quartz.
Détermination des compliances élastiques de l'arséniate d'ammonium
Authors: Chapelle J.
Published: December 2018

A l'aide de plaques piézoélectriques convenablement orientées, l'auteur a déterminé les constantes élastiques de As₅O₄H₂(NH₄). Les résultats obtenus à 20° sont les suivants (dans le système C.G.S).

s₁₁ = 1,69.10⁻¹² s₁₂ = 1,73.10⁻¹² s₁₃ = -1,11⁻¹²

s₃₃ = M3.10⁻¹² s₄₄ = 15,29.10⁻¹² s₆₆ = 12, 4.10⁻¹².

Les coefficients de température de diverses coupes ont également été déterminés. Ils montrent que l'orientation la plus intéressante parmi celles qui ont été étudiées est la coupe X 67°,5.
Optique de la méthode de diffraction des rayons X de Laue
Authors: Barraud Jean
Published: December 2018

Placé en face du problème de la détermination précise de l'orientation des lames piézoélectriques, nous avons — après examen de différentes méthodes — fait choix de la méthode de Laue.

Nous avons été amené ainsi à étudier complètement l'Optique des rayons X contribuant à la formation des «taches» de Laue. Cette étude nous a permis de définir les conditions requises pour obtenir la précision maxima dans la détermination des angles mutuels des plans réticulaires.

Tenant compte de ces conditions, nous avons mis au point une méthode et un appareil qui permettent d'aboutir à une précision meilleure que la minute d'arc.

Nous avons pu déterminer ainsi l'orientation de très nombreuses lames de quartz , de coupes très diverses, en vue de l'étude de leurs propriétés piézoélectriques.

D'autre part, la connaissance des angles mutuels des éléments du réseau permet de calculer les rapports de ses paramètres. De la mesure d'un seul de ceux-ci, — par la méthode du cristal tournant par exemple, — on peut déduire la valeur des autres. Nous avons appliqué cette méthode au mica muscovite .
Analyse par microsonde moléculaire Raman et microsonde électronique des verres et des inclusions de très petite taille d'un xénolite acide
Authors: Paquet Jacques , Dhamelincourt Paul
Published: December 2018

Glasses, minerals and tiny inclusions as melting products of a xenolite have been analyzed with molecular microprobe and electron microprobe. These methods allow to characterize glasses without inclusion and glasses with crystalline inclusions smaller than a micron. Numerous glasses without inclusions exhibit flat and featureless Raman spectra. At the opposite, others exhibit broad bands which are well known in spectra obtained by conventionnal Raman spectrometry. The rhyolitic and mafic glasses contain tiny inclusions : the spectra exhibit peaks, the high intensity of which emphasizes the great number of microcrystals and their homogeneous distribution. The acid glasses contain inclusions of K-Na feldspars and magnetite ; the mafic-ones contain inclusions of olivine. The very small size inclusions in crystals can be evidenced with a similar accuracy. Their determination is obtained by using basic spectra established in large size crystals.
Petrologic and geothermobarometric investigations in the Kasai gabbro-noritic complex and associated metadolerite dykes (Zaire)
Authors: Bingen Bernard , Demaiffe Daniel , Delhal Jacques
Published: December 2018

In the south Kasai, archaean rocks affected (at 2.8 Ga) by granulite facies metamorphism consist of :

— to the North, a large basic plutonic complex of gabbro-norites with subordinate anorthosites ;

— to the South, acidic charno-enderbitic gneisses and granulite facies metasedimentary rocks crosscut by dolerite dykes.

In the gabbro-noritic complex, magmatic structures are largely obliterated by the granoblastic recrystallization of most rocks in which garnet may occur either as grains or as thin reaction rims.

Three main garnet forming reactions have been observed :

(1) plag + cpx → gt + qz

(2) plag + opx → gt + cpx + qz

(3) amph + qz → gt + cpx (+ plag + ilm).

In the anorthosites, typical coronitic textures developed around olivine crystals in a two stage process : oliv + plag → opx + cpxI + spin → gt + cpxII

Three factors seem to control the development of garnet : the whole rock Fe/Mg ratio, the An content of the plagioclase and the amount of normative quartz.

The mineral pairs opx-cpx and cpx-gt give an average temperature of 730 ± 50 °C while a pressure of 7.0 ± 0.5 kbar has been estimated on the basis of the plag-cpx-opx-gt-qz assemblages.

The metadolerites, which exhibit a blastophitic texture, contain relics of primary hypabyssal mineralogy as well as a secondary metamorphic two pyroxenes-garnet assemblage having the same characteristics as in the plutonic basic complex.
Le spectre infrarouge de la cyrilovite et de la wardite : corrélations entre la structure et la composition chimique
Authors: Tarte Pierre , Fransolet André-Mathieu , Pillard François
Published: December 2018

The infrared spectra of five analyzed samples of cyrilovite and wardite have been registered in the 4000-300 cm-1 region and are discussed in connection with the structure and the chemical composition of these minerals. The O-H stretching frequencies are distributed into two spectral regions : two very broad bands near 2950 and 3300 cm-1 which are due to water molecules engaged in short hydrogen bonds ; and two very sharp and strong peaks (3550 and 3495 cm-1 for pure cyrilovite ; 3621 an 3555 cm-1 for pure wardite) due to the stretch of hydroxyl groups. The spectrum of aluminous cyrilovite exhibits two additional bands, whose intensities depend on the percentage of Fe/Al replacement. Thus, the frequency pattern in the 3650-3450 cm-1 region allows an easy discrimination between pure cyrilovite, pure wardite and aluminous cyrilovite. The vibrations of the (PO4) ion are more or less modified by the nature of the trivalent cation (Al or Fe) and accordingly, the low- and medium-frequency spectrum (below 1400 cm-1) is fair complex, and no detailed interpretation is available.
Etude expérimentale de la distribution du fer ferreux et du magnésium entre spinelle chromifère et bain silicaté basique
Authors: Maurel Colette , Maurel Pierre
Published: December 2018

At one atmosphere total pressure, at temperatures of 1180-1300 °C and oxygen fugacities of 10-9-10-3 atm, the parition of ferrous iron and magnesium between chromian spinel and basic silicate melt is controlled mainly by the ferrous iron content and the magnesium content of the liquid. The partition coefficient varies between 1.5 and 6 for ferrous iron and between 1 and 2 for magnesium. The trivalent cations of spinel have a little influence on that partitioning : the magnesium content of spinel increases with the aluminium content. Temperature and oxygen fugacity interfere when their variations induce a modification of the ferrous iron content of the liquid (variation of the Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio), or a modification of the magnesium content of the liquid (due to the crystallization of olivine or pyroxene).
Transmission electron microscope analysis of the deformation of chromites from ophiolites
Authors: Doukhan Nicole , Doukhan Jean-Claude , Nicolas Adolphe , Sécher Dominique
Published: December 2018

TEM investigations of natural chromites from New Caledonia and Turkey show contrasting dislocation structures which relate to the ore structures and to the deformation history. Some chromites appear to have been deformed in the ductile field ; dislocation substructures are typical of steady state dislocation creep. Other chromites show many fractures filled with matrix minerals. In these latter chromites one observes a large density of very small particles of diopside (typically 0.1x1 µm2 cross section) which pin the dislocations. It is suggested that these particle-dislocation interactions have caused a strong hardening and are responsible of the observed brittle deformation regime (pull-apart). Fractures have occurred on the surfaces which contained the largest particles. A rough estimation of the crystallization temperature of these latter chromites (Tc ⋍ 1200 ± 100 °C) is deduced from the spacing between the mismatch dislocations surrounding the diopside inclusions which exhibit epitaxial relations with the chromite matrix.
Défauts de structure dans la malachite révélés par annihilation de positons
Authors: Geffroy Bernard , Diallo Ibrahim , Paulin Robert
Published: December 2018

Positron lifetime is measured between 77 and 400 K in two malachite samples with different mineralogical structures. The complex spectrum found in zoned malachite reveals a microporosity which remains stable in this range of temperature.

Besides, above 200 K, equilibrium defects appear. Their formation energy is estimated to be Ef = 0.27 ± 0.02 eV.
Crystal structural refinement of Ca-exchanged barrerite
Authors: Sacerdoti Michele , Gomedi Isabetta
Published: December 2018

Dans les cristaux de barrerite de groupe spatial Amma, on a remplacé le sodium par le calcium. L'analyse chimique et les photographies de longue exposition de diffraction de rayons X de monocristal montrent que la barrerite a été transformée en stellerite de groupe spatial Fmmm. L'affinement structural montre une étroite analogie entre la barrerite de calcium et la stellerite naturelle ; les seules différences significatives concernent les facteurs d'occupation des molécules d'eau ; ces différences sont probablement dues à l'histoire différente de ces deux types de cristaux.
Breastfeeding and complementary feeding: Practice, knowledge and socioeconomic profile of mothers of children up to 2 years of age at a Health School of Pará
Authors: Barros Letícia Barbosa , Quadros Polliany Ribeiro de , Anjos Karlla Lorenna dos Santos , Chaves Natielle Rosendo , Silva Wanessa Costa da , Souza Jean Carlos Alves de Lima , Campos Amanda Letícia Bezerra , Santos Marcela Bianca Lima , Novaes Thais Martins , Ribeiro Nathasha Nunes , Rodrigues Bruna Vaz Pereira , Feio Amanda Cristina Alvino , Cavalcante Erica Gomes Do Nascimento
Published: December 2018

Objective:  This study aims to evaluate socioeconomic profile, practice and knowledge of mothers of children up to 2 years old on breastfeeding and complementary feeding.

Methods: interviews applied to 104 mothers who were subjected to research protocol consists of 33 questions on breastfeeding, complementary feeding, sociodemographic and obstetrical data.

Results: most mothers were between 20 and 34 years old, was in a stable union, had completed high school, was unemployed, was subjected to caesarean operation, and attended six or more prenatal consultations. Regarding breastfeeding and complementary feeding mothers had good knowledge of the subject and demonstrated practice properly on most issues.

Conclusion: results highlight the need for studies on the causes of differences between practice and knowledge about breastfeeding and complementary feeding, analyzing the received prenatal and failures or absence of post-natal care in to clarify and assist the practical questions of mothers
Constraining Black Hole Spins with Gravitational-wave Observations
Authors: Tiwari Vaibhav , Fairhurst Stephen , Hannam Mark
Published: December 2018

The observation of gravitational-wave signals from merging black hole binaries enables direct measurement of the properties of the black holes. An individual observation allows measurement of the black hole masses, but only limited information about either the magnitude or orientation of the black hole spins is available, primarily due to the degeneracy between measurements of spin and binary mass-ratio. Using the first six black hole merger observations, we are able to constrain the distribution of black hole spins. We perform model selection between a set of models with different spin population models, combined with a power-law mass distribution, to make inferences about the spin distribution. We assume a fixed power-law mass distribution for the black holes, which is supported by the data and provides a realistic distribution of the binary mass-ratio. This allows us to accurately account for selection effects due to variations in the signal amplitude with spin magnitude, and provides an improved inference on the spin distribution. We conclude that the first six LIGO and Virgo observations disfavor highly spinning black holes against low spins by an odds ratio of 15:1, thus providing strong constraints on spin magnitudes from gravitational-wave observations. Furthermore, we are able to rule out a population of binaries with completely aligned spins, even when the spins of the individual black holes are low, at an odds ratio of 22000:1, significantly strengthening earlier evidence against aligned spins. These results provide important information that will aid in our understanding of the formation processes of black holes.
Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO): New Pillar in Building European Defence
Authors: Kolín Vilém
Published: December 2018

The establishment of the Permanent Structured Co-operation (PESCO) in defence in 2017 is one of the most important European initiatives of recent years, aiming at enhancing effectiveness in addressing security challenges and advancing towards further integrating defence cooperation within the EU framework. The article describes the genesis of PESCO and explains its functioning, including its legal framework, objectives, the role of the main actors and the dynamics of the whole process. The purpose of the article is to demonstrate the scope and strength of the more binding commitments that the participating Member States have decided to fulfil in the name of strengthening Europe's defence under the umbrella of the Common Security and Defence Policy.
From Collective to Transactional Defense
Authors: Etl Alex
Published: December 2018

This article aims to highlight the most important changes within the transatlantic defense relations. The central argument is that NATO is gaining a conditional nature, transforming collective defense into a form of transactional defense. The study utilizes Paul Kennedy's notion of "imperial overstretch" to explain the strategic context of the transatlantic defense relations. After this, the analysis highlights how the transatlantic defense relations gained a transactional character that is resonating to this American "imperial overstretch". The second part of the study focuses on the latest developments concerning the US military presence in Europe and highlights their transactional character, thus enabling the emergence of transactional defense within NATO.
Bembidion ambiguum (Coleoptera: Carabidae) is established in California
Authors: Maddison David , Will Kipling , Crews Sarah , LaBonte James
Published: December 2018

The ground beetle Bembidion (Neja) ambiguum Dejean is native to Europe and north Africa, in the Mediterranean region.

We report it from North America for the first time, from five localities around San Francisco Bay, California. The earliest record is from 2012.
Morphological traits – desiccation resistance – habitat characteristics: a possible key for distribution in woodlice (Isopoda, Oniscidea)
Authors: Csonka Diána , Halasy Katalin , Buczkó Krisztina , Hornung Elisabeth
Published: December 2018

Terrestrial isopods, as successful colonizers of land habitats, show a great variety in species distribution patterns on a global, continental, or regional scale. On a local, within-habitat level these patterns reflect the species’ tolerance limits and the presence of suitable hiding places (shelter sites, refugia). Humidity preference reflects a species’ capability for water retention which, in turn, depends on the integumental barrier. Desiccation resistance is a key feature in isopod survival under different environmental conditions. The present study shows a correlation between cuticle thickness and desiccation resistance under three relative humidity (RH) ranges (about 30, 75 and 100% RH) in nine species, relating these to the species’ differences in meso- and microhabitat choices. Habitat preferences are also associated with differences in cuticle surface morphology. The results support our hypothesis that species distribution and desiccation resistance are associated with particular cuticular morphological traits. Phylogenetic relations seem to be less important in desiccation resistance than cuticle thickness and external morphology.
Terrestrial isopods of the family Eubelidae Budde-Lund, 1899 from Iran, with description of a new species (Isopoda, Oniscidea)
Authors: Kashani Ghasem M. , Abedini Ahdiyeh , Montesanto Giuseppe
Published: December 2018

In the present work, terrestrial isopods of the family Eubelidae are investigated in Iran. The genera Periscyphis and Somalodillo are reported for the first time. More localities are presented for Koweitoniscustamei (Omer-Cooper, 1923) while K.shafieii Kashani, sp. n. is described and figured. A map indicating the sampling localities for the species is presented.
Life history characteristics of a cave isopod (Mesoniscus graniger Friv.)
Authors: Derbák Dávid , Dányi László , Hornung Elisabeth
Published: December 2018

The special environmental conditions of caves provide habitat for several endemic and relict species, among them terrestrial isopods. The Baradla Cave system (north-eastern Hungary) hosts Mesoniscusgraniger (Frivaldszky, 1865) (Oniscidea, Microcheta, Mesoniscidae), a pygmy, blind, fragile troglophile woodlice species. Its stable environment can be characterised by the lack of light, high relative humidity (96%), low and constant temperature (about 10 °C). We explored the population characteristics (sex ratio, size distribution) and life history traits of the species (e.g. longevity, reproductive strategy, offspring number, and size). Sex ratio and size distribution of the individuals (head-width measurements) were estimated based on a yearly pooled pitfall-trap data set (N = 677). We studied the species’ reproductive strategy under natural conditions (Baradla Cave, Aggtelek National Park). Model populations were set up in the cave and checked monthly between March and October, 2016 (15 replicates, each with 12 randomly chosen adult individuals; ΣN = 180). Digital photos were taken of the live animals and their length was estimated based on the photos by using ImageJ software (average body length: 6.56 ± 0.79 mm). The results showed female dominance in the population [(male:female = 0.43:0.57); p < 0.001 (GLM)]. Female head width (0.87 ± 0.18 mm) was significantly greater than that of males [0.79 ± 0.08 mm; p < 0.001 (t-test)]. Based on our present data we assume that the offspring number per single female is low (3–5), and new-borns have a relatively large size (body length: 4.22 ± 0.53 mm) compared to the adults. The probability of reproduction was continuous by monthly intervals (binomial test) and longevity exceeds one year. Our results suggest that the species follows a stenodynamic life history.
The genus Alpioniscus Racovitza, 1908 in Sardinia: taxonomy and natural history (Isopoda, Oniscidea, Trichoniscidae)
Authors: Taiti Stefano , Argano Roberto , Marcia Paolo , Scarpa Fabio , Sanna Daria , Casu Marco
Published: December 2018

The genusAlpioniscusRacovitza, 1908 (Trichoniscidae) from Sardinia is revised. Three new cave-dwelling species are described:A.onnisiTaiti & Argano,sp. n.,A.stochiTaiti & Argano,sp. n., andA.sideralisTaiti & Argano,sp. n.. The genusUtopioniscusSchmalfuss, 2005 is considered to be a junior synonym ofAlpioniscus, after morphological and molecular analyses.Alpioniscusfragilis(Budde-Lund, 1909) andA.kuehnifrom Grotta del Bue Marino are illustrated. With the new species, the genusAlpioniscusin Sardinia comprises six species: two troglobionts (A.fragilisandA.onnisi), one endogean and troglobiont (A.thanitTaiti & Argano, 2009), and three stygobionts (A.kuehni,A.stochi, andA.sideralis). All the species occur in karstic areas in the central-eastern and south-eastern part of the island. A key to all the Sardinian species ofAlpioniscusis provided.
Terrestrial isopods associated with shallow underground of forested scree slopes in the Western Carpathians (Slovakia)
Authors: Rudy Ján , Rendoš Michal , Ľuptáčik Peter , Mock Andrej
Published: December 2018

The shallow underground of forested scree slopes represents a little-studied subterranean biotope. In this paper, species diversity and depth distribution of terrestrial isopod communities studied in the depth profile (5–95 cm from the surface) of eight forested scree slopes in the Western Carpathians (Slovakia) is discussed. The southern edge of the Western Carpathians where the study sites are located represents the northernmost limit of distribution of obligate subterranean fauna in Europe. The sites differ from each other in type of bedrock, forest composition, slope aspect, and altitude. To sample isopods, a set of three subterranean pitfall traps consisting of a plastic cylinder (Ø 110 mm) and ten plastic cups was buried in each studied scree slope. In total, 252 isopods belonging to eleven species were sampled (1–5 species per site). Of the species found, the blind and depigmented Mesoniscusgraniger was the sole species closely associated with deeper parts of the depth profile and was present in most of the sites studied. Another ten species were represented by a small number of individuals and their occurrence deeper in the scree slope profile was rather accidental. A comparison between winter and summer periods indicates apparent differences in seasonal activities of isopods. Ethylene glycol seems to be more appropriate fixative solution for trapping isopods than formaldehyde.
Effect of agricultural practices on terrestrial isopods: a review
Authors: Souty-Grosset Catherine , Faberi Ariel
Published: December 2018

Terrestrial isopods (approximately 3700 known species in the world) are encountered in temperate and tropical regions, from the seashore to high altitudes and from floodplain forests to deserts. They are known to contribute to soil biodiversity. Environmental factors and anthropogenic actions, particularly land use changes such as primarily agricultural practices, and urbanization affect soil biodiversity and their functions. Human practices, such as soil tillage, pesticide application, chemical pollution, along with soil acidification adversely affect isopod abundance and diversity. It is thus important to recognise the vital contributions of soil biodiversity in support of environmental quality protection through maintaining soil functions and their significance to sustainable land use. This review will also deal with recent studies attempting to evaluate the impact of returning to an environmentally friendly agriculture by restoring refuge habitats such as grass strips, hedges, and woodlands for terrestrial isopods.
Effect of neem-derived plant protection products on the isopod species Porcellionides pruinosus (Brandt, 1833)
Authors: Doshi Pratik , Mészárosné Póss Anett , Tóth Ferenc , Szalai Mark , Turóczi György
Published: December 2018

Neem-based products have gained major attention over the last few years due to their wide range of applications in pest management, and have been in the focus of biological plant protection research in the past decade. Yet, there is limited information available to understand the side effects of these neem-derived pesticides on non-target species in soil. Therefore,Porcellionidespruinosus, a terrestrial isopod, was chosen as a non-target species to investigate such possible effects. Two different experiments were conducted to study two different neem-derived plant protection products, i.e., NeemAzal T/S (1% azadirachtin) which is a commercial product registered in the EU, and neem leaf extract from dried neem leaves (1%).The latter simulates the plant protection product, is domestically produced, and widely used by farmers in India and other tropical and subtropical countries. Findings are consistent with previous results obtained with other non-target organisms, i.e., neither of the tested neem products have adverse effects on the mortality ofP.pruinosus. However, further research on a wider range of soil organisms is needed to prove the safety of neem-based products as biological control agents and to be part of integrated pest management.
Terrestrial isopods in urban environments: an overview
Authors: Szlavecz Katalin , Vilisics Ferenc , Tóth Zsolt , Hornung Elisabeth
Published: December 2018

In an increasingly urbanized world scientific research has shifted towards the understanding of cities as unique ecosystems. Urban land use change results in rapid and drastic changes in physical and biological properties, including that of biodiversity and community composition. Soil biodiversity research often lags behind the more charismatic groups such as vertebrates and plants. This paper attempts to fill this gap and provides an overview on urban isopod research. First, a brief overview on urban land use change is given, specifically on the major alterations on surface soils. Historical studies on urban isopods is summarized, followed by the status of current knowledge on diversity, distribution, and function of urban isopod species and communities. A review of more than 100 publications revealed that worldwide 50 cities and towns have some record of terrestrial isopod species, but only a few of those are city-scale explorations of urban fauna. A total of 110 isopod species has been recorded although the majority of them only once. The ten most frequently occurring isopods are widely distributed synanthropic species. Knowledge gaps and future research needs call for a better global dataset, long term monitoring of urban populations, multi-scale analyses of landscape properties as potential drivers of isopod diversity, and molecular studies to detect evolutionary changes.