bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retracted: Development of Bulk Metallic Glass Matrix Composites (BMGMC) by Additive Manufacturing: Modelling and Simulation – A Review: Part B
Authors: Rafique Muhammad Musaddique Ali , Niezgoda Stephen , Brandt Milan
Published: June 2019

. Bulk metallic glasses (BMGs) and their composites (BMGMC) have emerged as competitive materials for structural engineering applications exhibiting superior tensile strength, hardness along with very high elastic strain limit. However, they suffer from a lack of ductility and subsequent low toughness due to the inherent brittleness of the glassy structure which render them to failure without appreciable yielding owing to mechanisms of rapid movement of shear bands all throughout the volume of the material. This severely limits their use in the manufacture of structural engineering parts. Various theories and mechanisms have been proposed to counter this effect. Introduction of secondary ductile phase in the form ofin-situnucleating and growing dendrites from melt during solidification have proved out to be best solution of this problem. Nucleation and growth of these ductile phases have been extensively studied over the last 16 years since their introduction for the first time in Zr-based BMGMC by Prof. Johnson at Caltech. Data about almost all types of phases appearing in different systems have been successfully reported. However, there is very little information available about the precise mechanism underlying their nucleation and growth during solidification in a copper mould during conventional vacuum casting and melt pool of additively manufactured parts. Various routes have been proposed to study this including experiments in microgravity, levitation in synchrotron light and modelling and simulation. In this report, which is Part B of two parts comprehensive overview, state of the art of development, manufacturing, characterisation and modelling and simulation of BMGMCs is described in detail. Evolution of microstructure in BMGMC during additive manufacturing have been presented with the aim to address fundamental problem of lack in ductility along with prediction of grain size and phase evolution with the help of advanced modelling and simulation techniques. It has been systematically proposed that 2 and 3 dimensional cellular automaton method combined with finite element (CAFE) tools programmed on MATLAB® and simulated on Ansys® would best be able to describe this phenomenon in most efficient way. Present part B focuses on methodology by which modelling and simulation can be adopted and applied to describe evolution of microstructure in this complex class of materials.
The Effect of Electropolishing Time Variation at Room Temperature and Low Voltage on the Surface Quality of Cardiovascular Stent
Authors: Pujiyulianto E. , Suyitno
Published: June 2019

Electropolishing is an attractive method for surface smoothing of cardiovascular stent. This study investigated the effect of times of electropolishing on the surface characteristics both are upper surface and surface of the strut of cardiovascular stent after the by die sinking electrical discharge machining (EDM). The observed surface characteristics of the strut were recast layer, surface roughness and brightness. The weight analysis, and the reduction of the width strut were conducted. The recast layer was analyzed by optical microscope qualitatively, the surface roughness was measured by surface texture measuring instrument, the weight analysis and the reduction of width strut were calculated. The stent was made from steel AISI 316 L. The times which were used in the electropolishing were 3 minutes, 7 minutes, and 11 minutes. The experimental results show that the time for smoothing and brightening of stent at room temperature and low voltage 5 V is 7 minutes. The times affect the upper and EDM surface roughness, the weight of stent and the width of strut. The results show that increasing of times, than the value of surface roughness, the weight of stent and the width of strut will decrease, and vice versa. The average surface roughness of EDM surface after electropolishing is in the range of 3.49 – 1.62 µm. The average surface roughness of upper surface after electropolishing is in the range of 0.55-0.22 µm. The weight analysis show that the loss of weight is in the range of 0.12-1.12 %, and the reduction of width strut is in the range of 11.02 – 69.3 %.
Viscoelastic Properties of PVB Interlayer for Laminated Glass Structures Used in Building Reconstructions
Authors: Vokáč Miroslav , Hána Tomáš , Machalická Klára V. , Eliášová Martina
Published: June 2019

Laminated glass is a structural element used extensively in a reconstruction of existing building structures because of its transparency and simplicity. When using laminated glass as a glass staircase, balustrades, transparent flooring, facades or other structural elements, it is advisable to consider the shear interaction of individual glass panes in the cross-section. A conservative approach where the glass panes shear interaction is not considered, is uneconomical. This interaction depends on the properties of polymeric interlayers used in lamination process. Various commercial products based on PVB (polyvinyl butyral), EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate), ionomer, or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) are used. Stiffness of polymers depends on temperature and duration of a load. Interlayers exhibit the viscoelastic properties and temperature dependency usually described by the generalized Maxwell model and WLF model (Williams-Landel-Ferry). Parameters of these models are the most effectively determined by Dynamic Mechanical Thermal Analysis (DMTA), where the material is cyclically loaded at different frequencies and temperatures. Material parameters were found by DMTA in shear for PVB type of interlayer Trosifol® BG R20. In addition, the experimental quasi-static loading tests in shear were performed at different loading rates and at various temperatures. These experimental stress-strain diagrams were compared to the theoretical stress-strain relations obtained from Maxwell model with material parameters based on DMTA testing. All tests were performed in Klokner Institute CTU in Prague.
Assessing the Effect of Protective Coatings on the Resistance of the Concrete Floor to the Abrasion
Authors: Mikulica Karel , Hela Rudolf
Published: June 2019

How to extend your lifetime before you start using it or more often during use is a matter for every investor. In this paper, we will try to assess whether the use of protective coatings on concrete floors has a positive effect on the service life. The referee in our case will be the highly abrasive test method Böhme, which determines abrasion resistance. For comparison, we chose coatings based on sodium silicate solution, ie water glass. The market for these protective coatings is very diverse, so we have chosen to select products of renowned and unknown producers in different price ranges to cover the widest possible market.
Influence of Expansion on Properties and Microstructure of Calcium Silicate Composite Material
Authors: Húšťavová Jana , Cerny Vít , Drochytka Rostislav
Published: June 2019

The aim of the research was verification of influence of aeration and influence of aluminum powder on microstructure and physical mechanical properties of calcium silicate composite material. At the same time, influence of various dosages of alternative raw materials on porous structure of the composite was examined. Tested raw materials are not the ones commonly used in the technology of manufacture of calcium silicate composites, for example chamotte blocks, Lining of silica and foundry sand. It was found that influence of aeration of calcium silicate composite causes reduction of compressive strength by roughly 85%. At the same time, volume weight drops by 50%. As a consequence of the expansion, intensity of diffraction lines of tobermorite detected by X-ray diffraction analysis is reduced because of reaction of aluminum powder with calcium hydroxide. It was found that there is dependency between the amount of replacement of silica sand with foundry sand and silica, and intensity of tobermorite diffraction lines, where the intensity of the diffraction lines was reduced with increased amount of replacement.
Restorations of Historic Buildings Considering the Fire Safety in Model Solutions
Authors: Iringová Agnes , Vandličková Dominika
Published: June 2019

The paper deals with the theoretical analysis of physical, structural, and layout determinants affecting the design and restoration of historic buildings in terms of fire safety. Legislative requirements for fire safety of historic buildings in the Slovak Republic. Definition of the construction and layout limits in architectural solutions in model buildings in terms of optimizing the original function within the valid legislation. Construction possibilities considering the protection of building elements at higher fire load and layout changes in structures built to the original trusses.
Damage of Industrial Reinforced Concrete Chimneys Caused by High Temperatures
Authors: Pešata Michal , Prochazka Lukáš , Boháčová Jana , Daňková Jana
Published: June 2019

The paper deals with the resistance of reinforced concrete against fire and the degradation of reinforced concrete due to high temperatures. In the first part the processes of degradation of concrete are solved due to the evaporation of water and its change of state with respect to the different thermal expansion of aggregates and concrete reinforcement members. The main part is focused on the construction of monolithic and prefabricated structures of industrial chimneys. The most common types of protection of the chimney's internal parts from the exhaust gases are discussed here. Also the possibilities of designing individual expansion joints are described. In the experiment, the problem of chimney damage, with the subsequent description of the chimney diagnostics in the premises of Unipetrol in Litvínov, was solved due to an extraordinary event - explosion of the ethylene unit.
Monitoring of Thermal Damage Evolution in Concrete Parts by Acoustic NDT Methods
Authors: Plšková Iveta , Matysík Michal , Chobola Zdeněk
Published: June 2019

The paper presents the results of the experimental work which was focused on the use of the Impact-echo method for testing of concrete specimens damaged by high-temperature. The test specimens were heated to 600 and 800 °C for sixty, one hundred twenty and three hundred minutes. After heating, the samples were continuously cooled to room temperature and tested by Impact-echo method.
Experimental Study of Concrete Beams Reinforced with GFRP Rebars Exposed to High Temperatures
Authors: Daněk Petr , Rozsypalová Iva , Karel Ondřej
Published: June 2019

The paper deals with the experimental study of the behaviour of large concrete beams reinforced with glass fibre reinforced polymer (GFRP) rebars exposed to high temperatures equivalent to fire load. The four-point bending test was carried out on the beams after cooling. This study provided values for the load bearing capacity of the beams.
Preliminary Construction-Technical Survey of the Underpass at Hlučínská Street in Ostrava - Přívoz
Authors: Pešata Michal , Prochazka Lukáš , Boháčová Jana , Daňková Jana
Published: June 2019

The paper deals with preliminary construction-technical survey of the underpass at Hlučínská Street in Ostrava - Přívoz. The survey describes the location of the monitored object, the connection to the other roads and the construction system of the underpass. On individual structural elements all the defects found are summarized.
Mechanically Resistant Composite Material Using Optimal Amount of Pre-Treated Hazardous Waste
Authors: Žlebek Tomáš , Hodul Jakub , Drochytka Rostislav
Published: June 2019

The utilisation of a relatively high amount of hazardous waste such as neutralising sludge (NS), which is a by-product of galvanic metal plating, as filler in a mechanically resistant composite material with an epoxy matrix, appears to be a progressive approach for improving the environment aspects. Polymer composites containing a filler of pure finely-ground silica sand – silica flour (SF) and fine foam glass waste (FGW) with a particle size of less than 200 μm were used for comparison of the achieved mechanical parameters. Considering the required consistency of the composite, related to its intended application in practice, 40% of the epoxy resin fillings was tested. It was shown that the developed, mechanically-resistant composite exhibits very high impact and wear resistance. Based on the assessment of the results obtained, it was found that the composite containing pre-treated hazardous waste achieved only 20% lower compressive strength than the reference composite, which comprised only primary raw materials. It is thus claimed that specific pre-treated hazardous waste can be effectively used for the preparation of special repairing composite material, and also in areas with a significant mechanical load.
Optimizing Composition of Gypsum Mixture for Preparation and Testing of Partition Blocks
Authors: Hájková Iveta , Gazdič Dominik
Published: June 2019

Gypsum, or sulphate, binders are inorganic powder binders, which are among the so-called aerial mortars. These, after mixing with water, form a material that is well-workable for a certain time, which solidifies, hardens and is stable only in the air. Gypsum as a building material is formed by heating a raw material called plaster stone - CaSO4·2H2O and can acquire various properties depending on how it is produced. Its resulting properties can be affected to some extent by the source from which the raw material for its production is obtained, whether it is plaster stone or whether it the source is a secondary product from industrial production. [1] Production and use result from the ability of the original raw material to release crystalline-bound water under elevated temperatures and to bind it again after it has been added thus recreating a solid structure.
Review of Factors Affecting the Quality of Architectural Concrete
Authors: Sestak Jan , Utěšená Monika , Pernicová Radka
Published: June 2019

The paper deals with the properties, quality and durability of the exposed concrete. The main part of this paper are characteristic of architectural (sometimes called visible or naked) concrete and the criterion of the quality evaluation of the performed work. This is mainly the colour balance of the subject area, the quantity and the size of the pores, the quality of the raw material and the surface structure. Achieving the quality of architectural concrete is considerably more technologically demanding compared with conventional concrete. This is reflected also in its cost. In conclusion, the problems of surface layers of architectural concrete are summarized. Especially environments can cause faster degradation, reducing the lifetime of the whole construction, but also pointing to one of the main problems in construction, which is technological discipline.
Selective Separation Using Fluid-Liquid Interfaces
Authors: Leistner Tom , Türk Michael , Weber Alfred , Weber Christian , Peuker Urs A.
Published: June 2019

Interfaces between two fluid phases are a potential barrier for particles. Certain particles may not be able to pass such an interface, because they have to overcome a certain resistance. The latter depends on the strength of the interface, which is the surface tension. The second relevant property is the three phase wetting angle, which shows the fluid with the preferred wetting to the particle surface. It depends on the particle properties, like chemical composition, surface structure and surface modification. The third relevant parameter is the particle size. From these three main influence parameters it emerges that fluid-fluid interfaces can show a selectivity to special particle properties, which enables a separation of a particle mixture. Since there are possibilities to address the governing effects, the separation cut, size or composition cut respectively, can be engineered in a certain range. Separation at boundaries is feasible when the driving force is in the same order of magnitude as the retaining resistance force of the interface. The driving force is either the Brownian movement for very small particles or any field force like gravity or the centrifugal force. To describe the separation at interfaces it is necessary to understand the process of the phase transfer of particles through the interface, either the gas-liquid or the liquid-liquid interface between two immiscible liquids. In addition to the effects mentioned above, also dynamic phenomena such as surfactant depletion of the interface may have to be taken into account.
Review: Possibilities of Steel Scrap Decopperization
Authors: Sandig E. Frank , Chebykin Dmitry , Prutchykova Valentyna V. , Fabrychnaya Olga , Volkova Olena
Published: June 2019

Copper is one of the most common tramp elements in steel scrap. It originates from recycling of copper-alloyed steels, such as weather-resistant construction steel (up to 0.3 mass% Cu) or austenitic stainless steels (up to 3 mass% Cu). In both cases, corrosion resistance is increased. Certainsteels, on the other hand, be alloyed with Cu to influence the Ms point, ductility and/or antiseptic properties. However, copper increases the risk of hot shortness and cold work hardening in low-alloyed steels, which is even more pronounced if Sn is also present in the alloy. Furthermore, Cu is frequentlyintroduced into the scrap melt unintentionally, when steel scrap contains undiscovered parts or components of Cu or its alloys. Because the oxygen affinity of copper is lower than that of iron, selective oxidization of Cu from steel melts is not possible. Therefore, various alternative decopperization methods have been proposed by researchers, starting from the mid-1950s, up to the present. Among those are, apart from scrap pre-treatment, sortation and physical separation, melt dilution, treatment with chemical elements, carrier-metal equilibration, distillation/volatilization, slag treatment, melt filtration and oxide powder blowing. In this paper, various methods for decopperization of steel scrap melts, as reported in available literature, are being reviewed. This is complemented by pretest results from the Institute of Iron and Steel Technology at TU Bergakademie Freiberg (IIST).
Species at risk: a guide for Canadian entomologists
Authors: Timms Laura L. , Rix Rachel R.
Published: June 2019

The collection and preservation of insect specimens supply valuable information to entomologists. Collections are foundational to natural history, and paramount to the study of life history, systematics, and evolution. Rising concern over anthropogenic loss of biodiversity, including insect losses, has led to policies, strategies, and procedures being put in place in Canada to ensure the protection of wildlife species at risk. This document outlines necessary information to help researchers ensure that they are in compliance with Canadian legislation when carrying out research involving the collection of insects. We include an overview of the federal Species at Risk Act, and provincial and territorial legislation protecting at-risk wildlife, and how wildlife species in Canada ranked and are assessed as being at risk. We also discuss prohibitions outlined in the federal Species at Risk Act and penalties for violating these prohibitions; providing examples from case histories on convictions under the act.
The effect of Citrullus colocynthis extracts on Streptococcus mutans, Candida albicans, normal gingival fibroblast and breast cancer cells
Authors: Seifi Kafshgari Hossein , Yazdanian Mohsen , Ranjbar Reza , Tahmasebi Elaheh , Mirsaeed Seyed Rahim Ghazi , Tebyanian Hamid , Ebrahimzadeh Mohammad Ali , Goli Hamid Reza
Published: June 2019

Tooth decay is one of the most common chronic diseases in humans. The aim of this study was to investigate the inhibitory effects of Citrullus colocynthis extracts on the growth of Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans and their cytotoxic effects on normal gingival fibroblast cells and breast cancer cells. The aqueous and alcoholic extracts of C. colocynthis fruit were evaluated by 3-(4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2, 5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay, minimum inhibitory concentration (MICs) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBCs)/minimal fungicidal concentration (MFCs) tests. The MICs and MBCs/MFCs were obtained from the aqueous extract (MIC 0.37 mg/mL and MBCs 1.5 mg/mL against S. mutans and MIC 0.37 mg/mL and MFCs 3.0 mg/mL against C. albicans) and ethanolic extract (MIC 0.75 mg/mL and MBCs 1.5 mg/mL against S. mutans and MIC 3.0 mg/mL and MFCs 12.0 mg/mL against C. albicans). The growth of S. mutans and C. albicans were effectively inhibited by extracts of C. colocynthis. The LC50 values of C. colocynthis on HGF1-PI cells were 4589.19 μg/mL and 3933.84 μg/mL by aqueous and ethanolic extracts, respectively. The LC50 values of C. colocynthis on MCF-7 cells were 4589.19 μg/mL and 3933.84 μg/mL by aqueous and ethanolic extracts, respectively. The extracts of C. colocynthis significantly decreased the growth of breast cancer and normal gingival fibroblast cells. The results of the study showed that the extracts may be used to treat oral mucosal diseases and prevent dental caries but future research is needed.
Overview of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus mediated bone and joint infections in India
Authors: Prabhoo Ram , Chaddha Ram , Iyer Rajagopalan , Mehra Apurv , Ahdal Jaishid , Jain Rishi
Published: June 2019

Staphylococcus aureus is the most common pathogen causing bone and joint infections (BJI). In India, prevalence of Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is increasing at an alarming rate and emerged as an important contributor towards the difficult to treat BJI. Currently available anti-MRSA agents have their own limitations with regards to reduced susceptibility as well as safety and tolerability. Furthermore, biofilms over the prosthesis with invariably multi-drug resistant strains leads to complex treatment processes. This necessitates the need to develop and screen new antibiotics against MRSA that can easily penetrate the deep pockets of infection and take care of the challenges discussed. This review aims to discuss on MRSA infection in bone and joint infection, current antibiotic regimen, its associated limitations, and finally, the need to develop new antibiotic therapy for effective management of patients with BJI.
Peter–Weyl Iwahori Algebras
Authors: Barbasch Dan , Moy Allen
Published: June 2019

The Peter–Weyl idempotent $e_{\mathscr{P}}$ of a parahoric subgroup $\mathscr{P}$ is the sum of the idempotents of irreducible representations of $\mathscr{P}$ that have a nonzero Iwahori fixed vector. The convolution algebra associated with $e_{\mathscr{P}}$ is called a Peter–Weyl Iwahori algebra. We show that any Peter–Weyl Iwahori algebra is Morita equivalent to the Iwahori–Hecke algebra. Both the Iwahori–Hecke algebra and a Peter–Weyl Iwahori algebra have a natural conjugate linear anti-involution $\star$, and the Morita equivalence preserves irreducible hermitian and unitary modules. Both algebras have another anti-involution, denoted by $\bullet$, and the Morita equivalence preserves irreducible and unitary modules for $\bullet$.
Optimal Lipschitz criteria and local estimates for non-uniformly elliptic problems
Authors: Beck Lisa , Mingione Giuseppe
Published: June 2019

We report on new techniques and results in the regularity theory of general non-uniformly elliptic variational integrals. By means of a new potential theoretic approach we reproduce, in the non-uniformly elliptic setting, the optimal criteria for Lipschitz continuity known in the uniformly elliptic one and provide a unified approach between non-uniformly and uniformly elliptic problems.
Combinatorics of toric arrangements
Authors: Pagaria Roberto
Published: June 2019

In this paper we build an Orlik–Solomon model for the canonical gradation of the cohomology algebra with integer coefficients of the complement of a toric arrangement. We give some results on the uniqueness of the representation of arithmetic matroids, in order to discuss how the Orlik–Solomon model depends on the poset of layers. The analysis of discriminantal toric arrangements permits us to isolate certain conditions under which two toric arrangements have di¤eomorphic complements. We also give combinatorial conditions determining whether the cohomology algebra is generated in degree one.
Monotonicity formulae for smooth extremizers of integral functionals
Authors: Fried Eliot , Lussardi Luca
Published: June 2019

A general monotonicity formula for smooth constrained local extremizers of first-order integral functionals subject to non-holonomic constraints is established. The result is then applied to recover some known monotonicity formulae and to discover some new monotonicity formulae of potential value.
Structural correlations in $Cs_2CuCl_4$: Pressure dependence of electronic structures
Authors: Jara Enrique , Barreda-Argüeso Jose Antonio , González Jesus Antonio , Valiente Rafael , Rodriguez Fernando
Published: June 2019

We have investigated the crystal structure of $Cs_2CuCl_4$ in the 0-20 GPa range as a function of pressure and how pressure affects its electronic properties by means of optical absorption spectroscopy. In particular, we focused on the electronic properties in the low-pressure Pnma phase, which are mainly related to the tetrahedral $CuCl_4^{2-}$ units distorted by the Jahn-Teller effect. This study provides a complete characterization of the electronic structure of $Cs_2CuCl_4$ in the Pmna phase as a function of the cell volume and the $Cu-Cl$ bond length, $R_{Cu-Cl}$. Interestingly, the opposite shift of the charge-transfer band-gap and the $Cu^{2+}$ d-d crystal-field band shift with pressure are responsible for the strong piezochromism of $Cs_2CuCl_4$. We have also explored the high-pressure structure of $Cs_2CuCl_4$ above 4.9 GPa yielding structural transformations that are probably associated with a change of coordination around $Cu^{2+}$. Since the high-pressure phase appears largely amorphized, any structural information from X-ray diffraction is ruled out. We use electronic probes to get structural information of the high-pressure phase.

Edited by: A. Goñi, A. Cantarero, J. S. Reparaz
Relationship analysis of PM2.5 and boundary layer height using an aerosol and turbulence detection lidar
Authors: Wang Chong , Jia Mingjiao , Xia Haiyun , Wu Yunbin , Wei Tianwen , Shang Xiang , Yang Chengyun , Xue Xianghui , Dou Xiankang
Published: June 2019

Abstract. The atmospheric boundary layer height (BLH) is a key
parameter in weather forecasting and air quality prediction. To investigate the
relationship between BLH and air pollution under different conditions, a
compact micro-pulse lidar integrating both direct-detection lidar (DDL) and
coherent Doppler wind lidar (CDWL) has been built. This hybrid lidar is operated
at 1.5 µm, which is eye-safe and made of all-fibre components. The
BLH can be determined from aerosol density and vertical wind independently.
During a 45 h continuous observation in June 2018, the stable boundary layer,
residual layer and convective boundary layer are identified. The fine structure
of the aerosol layers, drizzles and vertical wind near the cloud base are also
detected. In comparison, the standard deviation between BLH values derived
from DDL and CDWL is 0.06 km, indicating the accuracy of this work. The
retrieved convective BLH is a little higher than that from ERA5 reanalysis
due to different retrieval methods. Correlation between different BLH and
PM2.5 is strongly negative before a precipitation event and becomes
much weaker after the precipitation. Different relationships between PM2.5
and BLH may result from different BLH retrieval methods, pollutant sources
and meteorological conditions.
Pedogenic and microbial interrelation in initial soils under semiarid climate on James Ross Island, Antarctic Peninsula region
Authors: Meier Lars A. , Krauze Patryk , Prater Isabel , Horn Fabian , Schaefer Carlos E. G. R. , Scholten Thomas , Wagner Dirk , Mueller Carsten W. , Kühn Peter
Published: June 2019

Abstract. James Ross Island (JRI) offers the exceptional opportunity to
study microbial-driven pedogenesis without the influence of vascular plants
or faunal activities (e.g., penguin rookeries). In this study, two soil
profiles from JRI (one at Santa Martha Cove – SMC, and another at Brandy Bay – BB) were investigated, in order to gain information about the initial state
of soil formation and its interplay with prokaryotic activity, by combining
pedological, geochemical and microbiological methods. The soil profiles are
similar with respect to topographic position and parent material but are
spatially separated by an orographic barrier and therefore represent
windward and leeward locations towards the mainly southwesterly winds.
These different positions result in differences in electric conductivity of
the soils caused by additional input of bases by sea spray at the windward
site and opposing trends in the depth functions of soil pH and electric
conductivity. Both soils are classified as Cryosols, dominated by bacterial
taxa such as Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, Gemmatimonadetes and Chloroflexi. A shift in the dominant taxa was observed below 20 cm in
both soils as well as an increased abundance of multiple operational
taxonomic units (OTUs) related to potential chemolithoautotrophic
Acidiferrobacteraceae. This shift is coupled by a change in microstructure.
While single/pellicular grain microstructure (SMC) and platy microstructure
(BB) are dominant above 20 cm, lenticular microstructure is dominant below 20 cm in both soils. The change in microstructure is caused by frequent
freeze–thaw cycles and a relative high water content, and it goes along with a development of the pore spacing and is accompanied by a change in nutrient
content. Multivariate statistics revealed the influence of soil parameters
such as chloride, sulfate, calcium and organic carbon contents, grain size
distribution and pedogenic oxide ratios on the overall microbial community
structure and explained 49.9 % of its variation. The correlation of the
pedogenic oxide ratios with the compositional distribution of microorganisms as well as the
relative abundance certain microorganisms such as potentially
chemolithotrophic Acidiferrobacteraceae-related OTUs could hint at an
interplay between soil-forming processes and microorganisms.
A dataset of 30 m annual vegetation phenology indicators (1985–2015) in urban areas of the conterminous United States
Authors: Li Xuecao , Zhou Yuyu , Meng Lin , Asrar Ghassem R. , Lu Chaoqun , Wu Qiusheng
Published: June 2019

Abstract. Medium-resolution satellite observations show great
potential for characterizing seasonal and annual dynamics of vegetation
phenology in urban domains from local to regional and global scales.
However, most previous studies were conducted using coarse-resolution data,
which are inadequate for characterizing the spatiotemporal dynamics of
vegetation phenology in urban domains. In this study, we produced an annual
vegetation phenology dataset in urban ecosystems for the conterminous United
States (US), using all available Landsat images on the Google Earth Engine
(GEE) platform. First, we characterized the long-term mean seasonal pattern
of phenology indicators of the start of season (SOS) and the end of season
(EOS), using a double logistic model. Then, we identified the annual
variability of these two phenology indicators by measuring the difference of
dates when the vegetation index in a specific year reaches the same
magnitude as its long-term mean. The derived phenology indicators agree well
with in situ observations from the PhenoCam network and Harvard Forest. Comparing with
results derived from the moderate-resolution imaging spectroradiometer
(MODIS) data, our Landsat-derived phenology indicators can provide more
spatial details. Also, we found the temporal trends of phenology indicators
(e.g., SOS) derived from Landsat and MODIS are consistent overall, but the
Landsat-derived results from 1985 offer a longer temporal span compared to
MODIS from 2001 to present. In general, there is a spatially explicit
pattern of phenology indicators from the north to the south in cities in the
conterminous US, with an overall advanced SOS in the past 3 decades. The
derived phenology product in the US urban domains at the national level is
of great use for urban ecology studies for its medium spatial resolution (30 m) and long temporal span (30 years). The data are available at
https://doi.org/10.6084/m9.figshare.7685645.v5.
Lithospheric and sublithospheric deformation under the Borborema Province of northeastern Brazil from receiver function harmonic stripping
Authors: Lamarque Gaelle , Julià Jordi
Published: June 2019

Abstract. The depth-dependent anisotropic structure of the lithosphere
under the Borborema Province in northeast Brazil has been investigated
via harmonic stripping of receiver functions developed at 39 stations in
the region. This method retrieves the first (k=1) and second (k=2) degree
harmonics of a receiver function dataset, which characterize seismic
anisotropy beneath a seismic station. Anisotropic fabrics are in turn
directly related to the deformation of the lithosphere from past and current
tectonic processes. Our results reveal the presence of anisotropy within the
crust and the lithospheric mantle throughout the entire province. Most
stations in the continental interior report consistent anisotropic
orientations in the crust and lithospheric mantle, suggesting a dominant
northeast–southwest pervasive deformation along lithospheric-scale shear zones developed
during the Brasiliano–Pan-African orogeny. Several stations aligned along a
northeast–southwest trend located above the (now aborted) Mesozoic Cariri–Potiguar rift
display large uncertainties for the fast-axis direction. This non-azimuthal
anisotropy may be related to a complex anisotropic fabric resulting from a
combination of deformation along the ancient collision between Precambrian
blocks, Mesozoic extension and thermomechanical erosion dragging by
sublithospheric flow. Finally, several stations along the Atlantic coast
reveal depth-dependent anisotropic orientations roughly (sub)perpendicular to
the margin. These results suggest a more recent overprint, probably related
to the presence of frozen anisotropy in the lithosphere due to stretching and
rifting during the opening of the South Atlantic.
Stage Review of King Hedley II
Authors: Kelsall Cameron Patrick
Published: June 2019

A review of King Hedley II by August Wilson, staged at Two River Theater in Red Bank, New Jersey from November 10-December 16, 2018.
August Wilson Society President's Foreword to Inaugural Issue of the August Wilson Journal
Authors: Shannon Sandra G.
Published: June 2019

Founder and President of the August Wilson Society reflects upon the growth of the field of August Wilson studies over the past several decades and points towards a promising future.
August Wilson Estate, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, and August Wilson House Establish August Wilson Century Cycle Awards
Authors: Rawson Christopher
Published: June 2019

August Wilson House, the August Wilson Estate, and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette have teamed-up to celebrate the work of August Wilson by co-sponsoring the August Wilson Century Cycle Awards for those theaters that have successfully staged all ten plays of the Cycle.
Assessing the Damage: Money Awards by the OHRT in Sexual Harassment Cases
Authors: Lay Honor M.
Published: June 2019

Individuals who experience sexual harassment in employment, housing, education, or other social services in Ontario may be entitled to a general damages remedy under section 45.2 of the Ontario Human Rights Code. The Ontario Human Rights Tribunal conducts an objective analysis of the severity of the harasser’s conduct and a subjective analysis of the impact of the incident on the applicant. Generally, the more severe the conduct or impact on the applicant, the higher the award for general damages. Due to an expectation that individuals will appear traumatized after enduring sexual harassment, an applicant’s failure to produce evidence of distress or traumatization will often adversely affect his or her entitlement to higher damage awards. This paper argues that the requirement to produce medical proof is an unwarranted invasion of the individual’s right to medical privacy, unjustly imposes an additional evidentiary burden upon the applicant, and perpetuates the myth surrounding sexual assault that trauma is visible and uniform.
A Wall Between the "Public" and the "Private": A Comment on Highwood Congregation of Jehovah's Witnesses (Judicial Committee) v Wall
Authors: Chowdhury Mannu
Published: June 2019

This case comment examines the Supreme Court of Canada’s recent decision in Highwood Congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses (Judicial Committee) v Wall. The court ruled that a church’s decision to excommunicate a member could not be judicially reviewed. Rather, judicial review is reserved for decisions by state actors. Wall narrows the scope of judicial review such that many quasi-public actors—such as sports administrators and political parties—are no longer subject to judicial review. The author argues that Wall’s prima facie simplification of the law of judicial review masks deeper conceptual and practical tensions. Specifically, by immunizing quasi-public actors—who are integral to the administrative state—from judicial review, Wall raises questions of accountability. Moreover, the spread of Charter values among such actors is potentially thwarted by this decision. Finally, what is more problematic is that in arriving at its approach to judicial review in Wall, the Supreme Court misinterpreted a helpful body of cases on the public–private distinction and further complicated the question of when judicial review is available to litigants.
Inestabilidad en los monasterios riojanos en el tránsito entre el mundo medieval y moderno
Authors: Diago Hernando Máximo
Published: June 2019

El autor estudia la situación de los monasterios de la región castellana de Rioja en la segunda mitad del siglo XV y la primera del siglo XVI. Presta particular atención a aquellos aspectos de la misma que evidencian una grave inestabilidad. En primer lugar da cuenta de la proliferación de disputas por el cargo de abad. Llama la atención sobre la presencia de acciones violentas en dichas disputas. Dedica especial atención a las ocurridas en las primeras décadas del siglo XVI, durante las que se planteó en toda su crudeza el enfrentamiento entre reformadores y conservadores en las comunidades monásticas. Da cuenta de los efectos desestabilizadores que sobre los monasterios tuvieron las injerencias de los miembros de la alta nobleza en esta época. Y valora la intensificación de los conflictos de los monasterios con sus vasallos durante las primeras décadas del siglo XVI. Concluye destacando los contrastes perceptibles en la evolución a largo plazo de los monasterios riojanos, por un lado, y los de otros ámbitos europeos que afrontaron en esta época su disolución, como consecuencia del triunfo de la Reforma protestante, por otro.
Aproximación al modelo de desarrollo nasserista. Posibilidades y límites de la experiencia de modernización económica
Authors: Méndez Salua Youssef
Published: June 2019

La experiencia nasserista durante el período 1952-1970 permitió formas alternativas de desarrollo económico a las que existían hasta ese momento en la región, constituyendo, además, la génesis del panarabismo entendido como la expresión de un deseo de desarrollo independiente y nacional que rompiera con la dominación occidental e imperialista a la que estaban sujetos la mayoría de los países árabes durante estos años.

A lo largo de esta investigación abordamos el análisis de la experiencia nasserista en términos de posibilidades y límites, así como sus especificidades a nivel económico. A partir del marco teórico del paradigma de la modernización y mediante el examen de las principales estrategias implementadas, defendemos la existencia de una forma egipcia de intentar superar el subdesarrollo. Lejos de ser un modelo de desarrollo perfecto, su impacto en la economía fue positivo pero limitado: permitió un proceso de modernización económica, pero no logró un cambio estructural de la economía.
Reivindicar el detalle: sutilezas y catálisis barthesianas en la ficción televisiva
Authors: Garcia Catalan Shaila , Sorolla-Romero Teresa , Martín Núñez Marta
Published: June 2019

Este artículo rastrea la importancia de las catálisis, tal y como las formula Roland Barthes (1968), para asignar valor a los detalles en la descripción en las narrativas. Partimos de su hipótesis según la cual lo aparentemente insignificante del relato es lo que produce el efecto de realidad y proponemos pensar las series televisivas contemporáneas desde lo aparentemente inútil en el relato. Para ello, analizamos desde una perspectiva semiótica cuatro casos de estudio paradigmáticos que se han distanciado de los mecanismos convencionales de enganche y espectáculo y han apostado formalmente por la sutileza y la atención al detalle: la dialogada En terapia (In Treatment, Hagai Levi, Rodrigo García, HBO: 2008-2010), la hiperestilizada Mad Men (Matthew Weiner, AMC: 2007-2015), la irreverente Breaking Bad (Vince Gilligan, AMC: 2008-2013) y la siniestra True Detective (HBO: 2014-). Los análisis revelarán cómo en las catálisis de estas ficciones televisivas se pone en juego lo que es difícil de explicar incluso dotando de verosimilitud a lo fortuito, intrascendente e incluso inexplicable.
La performance periodística en la cobertura deportiva: un estudio comparado de televisión, radio, prensa impresa y medios online en Chile
Authors: Scherman Andrés , Mellado Claudia
Published: June 2019

Tradicionalmente se ha cuestionado el periodismo deportivo, acusándolo de falta de rigor, escasa capacidad crítica con las fuentes y de ignorar los conflictos sociales. Este artículo busca establecer si existen diferencias en las características de la cobertura noticiosa que realizan las secciones de deportes y la que efectúan otras secciones de los medios, evaluando aspectos como cantidad de fuentes, diversidad de puntos de vista y entrega de información verificable. Además, se indaga si existen diferencias en la presencia de los roles profesionales (intervencionista, vigilante, leal, servicio, infoentretenimiento y cívico) en las noticias de la secciones de deportes y las generadas por otras áreas. Utilizando como metodología de investigación un análisis de contenido de noticias realizado en Chile (n = 2,118), durante 2015 en prensa escrita, online, televisión y radio, este estudio comparó las características de la cobertura dada a las noticias de la sección de deportes con las notas publicadas en otros frentes informativos. Los resultados tienden a confirmar las miradas más críticas sobre el periodismo deportivo y muestran que, en comparación con las noticias de política, el número de fuentes que se consulta, la diversidad de puntos de vista que se muestran y la cantidad de información verificable que recibe la audiencia son menores. Respecto de la presencia de los roles profesionales, se observa que, en comparación con otras secciones, las noticias deportivas incluyen con mayor frecuencia roles relacionados con la entrega de opiniones de los periodistas que expresan una mirada positiva de las fuentes.
The increasing trend in the body mass index of Qatari adolescents 2003–2009
Authors: Fosse Kari Beinnes , Rootwelt Christine , Tuffaha Amjad , Said Hana , Sandridge Amy L. , Janahi Ibrahim , Hedin Lars , Elkum Naser , Greer William
Published: June 2019

Background: Although obesity is an increasing public health problem throughout the Arabian Peninsula, only a few comprehensive population-based studies have been published in Qatar. In particular, there is a dearth of published information on the increasing body mass index (BMI) of the most vulnerable Qatari sub-population – adolescents. This paper partially addresses this omission by documenting the BMI status of Qatari youth in 2008/2009; it also highlights the changes in BMI that occurred during the first decade of this century, when local risk factors were significantly increasing. Methods: Using a simple random sampling approach, adolescents were selected from a pool of Qatari children attending government schools in Qatar. This resulted in a comprehensive dataset of height and BMI for 705 boys and girls aged 12–17 years. Results: The overall prevalence of Qatari adolescents who were overweight/obese in 2008–2009 was 19.9%/26.7% (boys) and 23.2%/17.2% (girls). This represents a change in the prevalence of overweight/obesity of − 8.7%/+18.8 (boys) and +4.3%/+12.1% (girls) during the time between these studies. Conclusions: BMI increased substantially during the last decade, leading to a corresponding increase in the prevalence of adolescent obesity. These results demonstrate that regular monitoring of the BMI status of the Qatari adolescent population provides valuable predictors for adults.
Development and Validation of a Knowledge Management Questionnaire
Authors: Aziz Deema T. , Bouazza Professor Abdelmajid , Jabur Professor Naeema H. , Hassan Dr. Abdelhamid S. , Al Aufi Dr. Ali
Published: June 2019

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to propose a reliable and valid knowledge management performance measurement (KMPM) model for enterprises. Accordingly, this study draws on the knowledge management (KM) and factors affecting the flow of knowledge and its sharing in organizations, particularly the Ministry of Education (MOE) in Oman. Design/methodology: The study explored the current status of knowledge management (KM) in the MOE in general and knowledge sharing (KS) in particular; it also explored the factors affecting (KS). Therefore, it was divided into two sections: demographics and multiple choice questions comprising five factors: KMP, KS, Attitude, Commitment, and Shared Trust. The dimensional structure of the questionnaire was investigated with a sample of 136 employees holding various positions from the 9 Directorate General at the MEO in Oman (61.8% males and 38.2% females). Findings: Based on the factor analysis results, the questionnaire emphasized five factors: KMP, KS, Attitude, Commitment, and Shared Trust. The internal consistency and concurrent validity of KMPM were verified (Cronbach's alpha = 0.944). KMPM and its factors were significantly correlated with Socio-Technical Enablers (STE) scale. The validity of KMPM was tested using concurrent validity method and revealed a significant correlation of (0.847) between the two scales. This questionnaire was proved to be relatively reliable and valid. Practical implications: The researchers developed a questionnaire to measure the reality of KM initiatives in the MOE by assessing whether the work environment: (1) nurtures and accelerates the sharing of knowledge, (2) identifies enablers and obstacles affecting the flow of knowledge and (3) trains staff to capture the proper knowledge to be able to share it with the right people at the right time in the right form and at the right cost. The employees were classified according to job title into three levels: strategic, executive, and operational. Originality/value: This paper attempts to provide a comprehensive overview of the reality of knowledge management performance (KMP) capability assessment instrument in the MOE in Oman. No such measurement instrument currently exists in Oman. The instrument not only demonstrated consistent reliability, but also provided insights into organizational readiness for KMP with regard to three main individual factors, namely Commitment, Attitude, and Shared Trust.