bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INVERSION OF ELECTRICAL RESISTIVITY TOMOGRAPHY DATA DERIVING FROM 3D STRUCTURES
Authors: Tsourlos P.
Published: July 2018

In this work the effectiveness of 2D and 3D algorithms for inverting Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) data deriving from 3D structures is studied. Further, an analysis of data-collection strategies in the case of 3D structures is being carried out. Dense 2D measurements are nconsidered a practical tool for mapping 3D structures given the current limitations in ERT hardware. To perform the tests 2D and a 3D inversion programs are used. Both schemes use a forward model based on a 2.5D and 3D finite element scheme respectively. For both the 2D and 3D cases a fully non-linear inversion scheme based on a smoothness constrained algorithm is used. The Jacobian matrix is calculated using the adjoined equation technique. Comparisons are being carried out by means of synthetic examples for 3D models and dense 2D measurements with their axis parallel to the X (X-lines) and/or Y (Y lines) directions. For the case of 3D structures and 2D inversion tests results illustrate that both X-line, Y-line measurements are required to delineate the modeling body. However, when 3D inversion is considered either Xline or Y-line measurements are adequate to produce good quality reconstructions of the subsurface. Overall, results clearly illustrate the superiority of 3D over 2D inversion schemes in the case of 3D structures both in view of quality and logistics. Despite the increased computational time required by 3D inversion schemes, good quality results can be produced. Further, 2D inversion techniques require effectively a double amount of measurements to produce acceptable results. The ongoing advancement of fast computers renders the described approach of combining dense 2-D measurement with 3D inversion practical for routine data treatment.
MONOFRACTAL AND MULTIFRACTAL ANALYSIS IN SHORT - TERM TIME DYNAMICS OF ULF GEOMAGNETIC FIELD MEASURED IN CRETE, GREECE
Authors: Vallianatos F. , Makris J. P. , Saltas V. , Telesca L. , Lapenna V.
Published: July 2018

In this work, a monofractal and multifractal characterization of the short-term time dynamical fluctuations of the ultra low frequency (ULF) geomagnetic field, measured by one station installed in Creete, Greece, has been carried out. Time scale properties of the three ULF geomagnetic components, two horizontal (x, y) and one vertical (z) have been analyzed through the power spectral density, Higuchi method and Hurst R/S analysis. Results point out the presence of fractal features expressing long-range time correlation with scaling coefficients, which are the clue of persistent mechanism. Using a set of multifractal parameters, defined from the shape of the multifractal spectrum, it has been observed that the degree of multifractality, that characterizes the original signals, is "weaker" if compared to the residual signals, obtained from the original ones after removing the four observed periodicities (24-, 12-, 8- and 6-h periodicties). Furthermore the horizontal χ and y components have revealed to be less multifractal than the vertical z-component.
EARTHQUAKE PREDICTION IN THE AREA OF N. EVIA ON THE BASIS OF GROUNDWATER RADON CONCENTRATION CHANGES
Authors: Μητρόπουλος Π. , Notsu K. , Δελήμπασης Ν. , Κακαβάς N. , Βουδούρης Π.
Published: July 2018

Significant changes in the groundwater radon concentration, were observed on the 29/7/2003, at Kammena Vourla. The radon concentration changes can be attributed to the temporary enrichment of the groundwater by radon from the surrounding rocks due to the action of stress release or stress accumulation prior an earthquake. EPPO was immediately informed for the existence of these changes. On the 3/8/2003, a significant number of earthquakes in Northern Evia were recorded in an interval of a few hours. The epicentres of the earthquakes were located in the conceivable line between the epicentre of the strong earthquake of Skyros island (July 2001) and the site of the station of radon measurement at Kammena Vourla, on the extension of the Northern Aegean fault. In the 23/1/2003, in the same station, 3 significant changes of radon concentration were measured EPPO was immediately informed for impending seismic activity in Northern Evia. On the 29th of January three earthquakes were recorded. Their epicentres were located in N. Evia, close to the radon measurement, station. On the 2/2/2003, a new significant radon change occurred at Kammena Vourla followed by an earthquake (7/2/2003). In the 12/2/2003 in a letter that we addressed to the EPPO administration, the beginning of a new radon change was reported which also led to an earthquake with the same epicentre. The changes that are recorded in the system of radon measurement of Kammena Vourla are precursors of earthquakes, related to the extension of the N. Aegean fault towards the Sterea Hellas and have their epicentre in N. Evia. It seems that the method can be an important tool for local, short term earthquake prediction.
INSTALLATION AND PRELIMINARY RESULTS FROM A SMALL APERTURE SEISMIC ARRAY IN TRIPOLI, GREECE
Authors: Pirli M. , Voulgaris Ν. , Alexopoulos J. , Makropoulos K.
Published: July 2018

A small aperture seismic array was installed by the University of Athens, in the area of Tripoli, Greece, on July 16th 2003, in order to test the performance of seismic array processing in the area of Greece and assess its contribution to earthquake location, especially in offshore areas not azimuthally covered by the existing, conventional seismological networks. The array consists of four three-component seismological stations, one of them in the middle of a small, almost equilateral triangle, formed by the deployment of the other three stations. Despite the fact that array siting is a compromise of array installation criteria, equipment safety and logistics, the test character of the experiment can be served successfully. The array transfer function depicts good azimuthal coverage nonetheless the existence of side-lobes and a rather wide main lobe is characteristic of spatial aliasing and low resolution in the two-dimensional wavenumber domain. The resolvable wavenumber passband of the array permits the determination of most of the common seismic body wave phases (Pn, Pg, Sn, Sg, etc.) for local and regional events in the area of Greece. Location of recorded events was performed using slowness and backazimuth data, calculated by f-k analysis of the seismic waveforms. Preliminary results have been compared to epicentres calculated by the Geodynamic Institute of the National Observatory of Athens. Although some differences are observed, these are not significant and location results as well as overall array performance can be improved by array calibration and travel-time, azimuth and slowness correction calculations.
USING GIS AND EARTHQUAKE SCENARIOS FOR THE ASSESSMENT OF EMERGENCY RESPONSE IN CASE OF A STRONG EARTHQUAKE. AN APPLICATION IN THE URBAN AREA OF THESSALONIKI, GREECE
Authors: Stratou M. , Savvaidis A. , Papadopoulou M. , Panagiotopoulos D. G.
Published: July 2018

The aim of this paper, which is part of the M.Sc Thesis of the first author, is an initial attempt for the assessment of the emergency response through the road network of the Urban Area of Thessaloniki (UAT) after a strong earthquake. The areas of the road network that are to become inaccessible either due to partial collapse of buildings or due to destruction of the road axes by rupture zones, are detected. The inaccessible parts are determined for the cases of three earthquake scenarios using the values of the Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA), which were calculated for about 6000 points over the UAT, as well as spatial overlay tools of a GIS. In the end, by applying network analysis and according to the situation of the network after the earthquake, the possibility of movement of the fire engines and ambulances was studied and least cost routes from ambulance stations to UAT hospitals were tracked.
THE DISTRIBUTION OF Fe, Al, Cu, Co, Cr, Ni, Zn IN ALFISOLS DEVELOPED ON GABBROS FROM KlLKIS AREA
Authors: Τσαουσίδου Π. , Τσαγκαλίδης Α. , Γκάρτζος Ε. , Χαϊντούτη Κ. , Γασπαράτος Δ. , Ταρενίδης Δ.
Published: July 2018

The distribution of Fe, Al, Cu, Co, Cr, Ni, Zn was examined in two soil profiles of cultivated Alfisols developed from gabbro in the area of Chamilo in Kilkis. The main features of the studied soils were the accumulation of clay in the argilic horizons, the low pH and organic matter content, the absence of CaC03, and the high sand content, with differences in the drainage class and the degree of development. The optical microscope observations have demonstrated the presence of residual pyroxenes, altered plagioclases and muscovite. X-ray diffraction data of the clay fraction show the same clay minerals for the two soil profiles with the presence of kaolinite, illite, vermiculite and interstratified minerals of montmorillonite-vermiculite. The distribution of elements for both soil profiles depends primary from the pedogenetic processes. The illuvial translocation of clay in the argilic horizon seems to play an important role in the behavior of these elements in the studied soils. The significant correlations between the clay fraction, the Fe - Al oxides and the studied elements support the previous hypothesis. The use of ratio of elements concentration between the A and C horizons (index to assess the relative mobility of elements in the soil profile) which have values < 0.90 confirms the influence of the clay fraction at the distribution of elements. The low pH, the particle size distribution, and the drainage class of the soils influence also the dynamics of the studied elements in the soil profiles while the organic matter content seems to have no effect.
QUANTITATIVE MINERAL MATTER DETERMINATION IN LIGNITES USING X-RAY DLFRACTOMETRY AND POSITION SENSITIVE DETECTOR (XRD-PSD)
Authors: Παπαζησίμου Σ. , Καλαϊτζίδης Σ.
Published: July 2018

Thirty lignite samples from western Péloponnèse (Greece) were examined in the Department of Mineralogy, Natural History Museum, London, using an X-Ray Diffractometer equipped with a Position Sensitive Detector (Enraf-Nonius PSD 120). Diffraction patterns acquisition time was only 5 min with the minimum interference of the organic matter. Qualitative and quantitative evaluation of the mineral matter present performed using GUFI5 Enraf-Nonius software and involved a pattern-fit stripping technique. The prevailing minerals in all the studied samples are the mixed layers of illite/smectite, quartz, muscovite and K-feldspars. The weight percentages of the mineral matter as it was calculated from the diffraction patterns display high correlation coefficient (>0.85) with the respective wt.-% of ash in 750°C for most of the samples. The low correlation coefficient (0.65) of some samples may be attributed to the very small size of the mineral crystalline particles and/or the presence of inorganic amorphous phases.
PALEOGEOGRAPHIC EVOLUTION OF THE ATHENS BASIN FROM UPPER MIOCENE TO PRESENT
Authors: Παπανικολάου Δ. , Μπάση Ε. Κ. , Κράνης Χ. , Δανάμος Γ.
Published: July 2018

The Athens basin represents a complex neotectonic asymmetric graben bounded by NNE-SSW marginal faults with much higher activity along the western side in Egaleo and Parnitha Mts than along the eastern side along Pendeli and Hymettos Mts. The activity started during Late Miocene as the presence of sedimentary sequences indicates, continental and lacustrine in the west and north and coastal marine in the southeast. An E-W fault zone divided the basin in a northern subsided part - where lakes were dominating throughout Late Miocene - Pliocene - and a southern part where lakes were occurring only during Late Miocene in the central - western part, whereas shallow marine environments dominated in the south and southeast during Late Miocene – Pliocene with the coastline being very close to the present day Acropolis and Philopapou hills. The central eastern area was in a high position with the Alpine bedrocks under erosion and constituted a barrier towards the south. This situation changed before the middle Pleistocene when Kifissos River was formed cutting through the hilly area and connected the northern drainage system with the south, which resulted in the saturation of the remnant lakes of the northern segment. At the same period very thick fans were formed at the foothills of the surrounding mountains, covering the previous neogene sediments and/or Alpine rocks. Ever since the paleogeography was similar to the present geography during the inter-glacial periods and substantially different with the coastline along the present isobath of-120m during the glacial periods, like the Wurm.
STRUCTURING A G.I.S. FOR THE INTEGRATED APPLICATION OF GEOLOGICAL, HYDROGEOLOGICAL AND REMOTE SENSING METHODS AND TECHNIQUES IN THE STUDY OF GROUND WATER IN THE SITIA TECTONIC GRABEN
Authors: Ρόκος Ε. , Ανδρώνης Β.
Published: July 2018

This paper utilizes data from the first author's doctoral research on the geological and hydrogeological study of the broader area of the Sitia tectonic graben, using geological, hydrogeological, remote sensing and G.I.S. methods and techniques. In this work a G.I.S. which has been developed to include the information levels produced in the course of the research, is presented. The information levels can thus be appropriately correlated, with the aim of integrating the results of geological and hydrogeological methods and related in situ studies and measurements with evaluations of the potential of digital processing and analysis of remotely sensed images. Some conclusions of this study are documented in the paper.
DEVIATION BETWEEN HILL SLOPE ESTIMATION METHODS AND THE ROLE OF DEM SPATIAL RESOLUTION. COMPARATIVE STUDY IN A GIS ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Φουμέλης Μ. , Βασιλάκης Εμμ.
Published: July 2018

Three methods are descibed between the most frequently used for the estimation of hill slope from digital elevation models (DEM), the 'd8' method (Travis et al. 1975), Horn's method (1981) and Zevenbergen and Thorne method (1987), are described. Also a new approach was examined introduced by Tarboton (1997) called 'd-infinite' method. In order to investigate the spatial distribution of deviations between the examined methods, a statistical analysis was performed in a GIS environment. The magnitude of the differences between the methods was determined by calculating the RMSEr (Root Mean Square Error), while the degree of their equivalence was expressed by the linear correlation factor (r). Most deviations were located in areas of high relief, whereas the most interesting fact was that each method overestimates or underestimates the slope in very specific morphological structures, e.g. along watersheds, streams and generally in some types of morphological discontinuities. Finally, the DEM spatial resolution effect was explored on the estimated slope values using the selected methods. Regardless the method used, a general tendency of underestimating slope values by decreasing the DEM resolution was observed. The degree of divergences between these was also highly depended on the change of spatial resolution. Thus, the importance of defining a suitable resolution for each application should be addressed.
DIFFERENTIAL INTERFEROMETRY AS A TOOL OF AN EARLY WARNING SYSTEM IN REDUCING THE VOLCANO RISK: THE CASE OF NISYROS VOLCANO
Authors: Parcharidis Is. , Lagios E. , Sakkas V.
Published: July 2018

In this study an attempt to evaluate the possibility to use the interferometric (InSAR) technique as an operational tool in an early warning system concerning the volcanic hazard, is presented. The InSAR techniques was appied in Nisyros volcanic island which during 1996-1998 show an intensive seismic unrest. Two interferometric images were created covering the period before the seismic activity (1995-1996). In the two interferometric images fringe patterns of deformation were recognized related to the ground deformation occured before the seismic unrest period. The operational capabilities of the technique is mainly restricted by the low repetitevily of the image aquisitions and the parameters to take in consideration like perpendicular baseline, atmospheric conditions etc
CORRELATION OF TECTONICS, SEISMICITY AND GEOTHERMICS OF LESBOS ISLAND USING REMOTE SENSING DATA AND GEOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Authors: Voulgaris N. , Parcharidis I. , Pahoula M. , Pirlis E.
Published: July 2018

The development of a specialized Geographical Information System aiming at the better understanding of the relation between tectonics, seismicity and geothermal potential of Lesbos Island is discussed in the present paper. The development of this system was based on the processing and analysis of satellite images in order to identify both tectonic and thermal anomalies for further correlation with available vector and raster data. For this purpose a database including topology, geology, tectonics, seismicity and geothermy, was created. This data set derived from digitizing the topographic and geological maps of HAGS and IGME, from the analysis of the satellite image and from bibliography. As a result of the data processing there were indications about new evidence concerning the tectonics and the geothermy of Lesbos Island.
VISUALISATION WITH G.I.S OF AGIA EIRINI GORGE AT THE SOUTHERN MARGINS OF THE WHITE MOUNTAINS, SW CRETE
Authors: Μπιζούρα Κ. , Μανούτσογλου Ε. , Σπυρίδωνος Ε.
Published: July 2018

Sustainable management of protected areas requires good knowledge of the entire system. Complicated natural systems require for their management the use of digital information systems, that would allow the integration of all the available information on the studied natural system as well as the elements of new researches. Among the natural systems the gorges constitute mainly geological structrures. The aim of the present study is the development of a 3D digital morphotectonic model for the Agia Eirini Gorge, crossing the southern limbs of mountain Lefka Ori in South-Western Crete. The work is divided in two parts, on one side in the creation of suitable backgrounds that is reqi ired for the creation of a 3D model and on the other hand the placement of the spatial data into the model. For the creation of the digital terrain model (DTM) of the gorge area, maps at a 1:5.000 scale, obtained from the Army Geographic Service were digitised using CAD Overlay 2000i software. The data obtained were transferred into SURPAC 2000 supplemented with orthophotomaps of the region with the method of superimposition. The initial data drawn from the existing geological map of the region were evaluated by data obtained from field work. This methodology allows integration of all available information for the system under study, including newly acquired data
OCEANOGRAPHIC OBSERVATIONS IN THE LAGOON OF KAIAFA (W PELOPONNESE)
Authors: Μπούζος Δ. , Κοντόπουλος Ν.
Published: July 2018

The Kaifa lagoon is a coastal marine ecosystem located in the Kyparisiakos Bay. The purpose of this study is to: (a) To determine the spatial and temporal changes of the physicochemical parameters in the water column of the Kaifa lagoon and (b). To create a base of information for future use for the restoration of the lagoon. Temperature, salinity, pH and dissolved oxygen were measured insitu in 28 stations. Furthermore, water samples were taken for the determination of NO2, NO3, NH4 and PO4 on seasonal bnsin from November '94 to September '95. The temperature was fluctuating from 15,90 °C in March to 30,41 °C in late August and late September. Further the seasonal variation of the temperature showed the expected two thermal periods. The first period is a hot period showing a continuous increase of temperature from March to September. The second period is a cold period showing a continuous decrease of temperature from the September to March. For each period of sampling the temperature of lagoonal water in all the extent of the lagoon remains practically constant because the fluctuation of temperature is very small each time. The salinity varied between 7,2%o and 9,20%o. The salinity like the temperature presented seasonal fluctuation patterns but the lagoon is brackish all the year round. The spatial changes of salinity were absent for every sampling period. The pH values ranged from 6,70 to 8,40. So, the pH values fluctuated in the normal levels for aquatic animals. Further, these are relatively high in spring (arithmetic mean=7.8) owing probably to higher photosynthesis rate. Dissolved oxygen ranges from 3,30 mg/l to 10,00 mg/l. In the sampling periods of September and November the oxygen values were less than 7,00mg/l for a large part of the lagoon except southern margins. This evidence suggests dangerous conditions for the fish life. Phosphate concentrations were low (0,010 mg/l - 0,07 mg/l), in November. On the contrary the phosphate levels were high (on the average 0,111 mg/l) in the sampling period of September and in particular in the southern part of the lagoon. So, this part indicated photosynthetic activity. Further, In March the phosphate concentrations have an intermediate value for every sampling station in relation to the other sampling periods. Ammonia concentrations were considered high (0,24 mg/l - 2,68 mg/l) all the year round. Nitrate levels fluctuated around normal values (0,018 mg/l -0,11mg/l) during the year. The high amount of the ammonia nitrite and nitrate in November suggests the pollution of lagoon from the fertilizers into lagoon through two drainage canals. Nitrite concentrations were high during the cold period (0,041 mg/l - 0,280 mg/l). The spatial and temporal variability of the abiotic parameters of the lagoonal water must be attributed mainly to the strong influence of fresh water witch is discharged into the lagoon from a adjacent karst with hot springs.
VARIATIONS OF SEA LEVEL AND SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURE IN THE CALDERA OF SANTORINI ISLAND , SOUTHERN AEGEAN SEA
Authors: Albanakis K. , Styllas M. , Yfantis V.
Published: July 2018

Analyses of sea level records within the Caldera of Santorini Island revealed the significance of both océanographie and atmospheric forcing on the observed signals. Sea level (msl) and sea surface temperature (sst) data were obtained from the four stations of the REMOS monitoring network. Out of the four stations Gialos station is located on the caldera whereas the remaining three (Erinia, Taxiarhis and Agios Nikolaos) are located on the young volcanic islands of Palaia and Nea Kameni. The record of sea level data contained a number of gaps. When possible, (i.e. small gaps) missing values were estimated with linear interpolation. Harmonic analysis on continuous parts of the record revealed a mixed type of tide with similar Nf values for the four stations, a result of their locations being close to each other. No co-oscillation phenomena were found within the caldera. Sea level at Taxiarhis station is affected more by atmospheric forcing and shallow water effects in contrast with Gialos station where mean sea level displays significant correlation (r=0.62) with sea surface temperature at lags 2-6 days. The annual cycle of mean sea level (amplitude=5.74cm) responds to seasonal variations in the thermal structure of the waters, and together with the semiannual cycle explains 9.02% of the variance in the annual frequency band. Existing data are not sufficiently long to develop a model, which will reconstruct sea level variability resulting from océanographie and meteorological forcing and will be used for the detection of ground movements from future volcanic eruptions.
Missing the point: are journals using the ideal number of decimal places?
Authors: Barnett Adrian G
Published: July 2018

Background:The scientific literature is growing in volume and reducing in readability. Poorly presented numbers decrease readability by either fatiguing the reader with too many decimal places, or confusing the reader by not using enough decimal places, and so making it difficult to comprehend differences between numbers. There are guidelines for the ideal number of decimal places, and in this paper I examine how often percents meet these guidelines.

Methods:Percents were extracted from the abstracts of research articles published in 2017 in 23 selected journals. Percents were excluded if they referred to a statistical interval, typically a 95% confidence interval. Counts and percents were calculated for the number of percents using too few or too many decimal places, and these percents were compared between journals.

Results:The sample had over 43,000 percents from around 9,500 abstracts. Only 55% of the percents were presented according to the guidelines. The most common issue was using too many decimal places (33%), rather than too few (12%). There was a wide variation in presentation between journals, with the range of ideal presentation from a low of 53% (JAMA) to a high of 80% (Lancet Planetary Health). 

Conclusions:Many percents did not adhere to the guidelines on using decimal places. Using the recommended number of decimal places would make papers easier to read and reduce the burden on readers, and potentially improve comprehension. It should be possible to provide automated feedback to authors on which numbers could be better presented.
An international, Delphi consensus study to identify priorities for methodological research in behavioural trials: A study protocol
Authors: Byrne Molly , McSharry Jenny , Meade Oonagh , Lavoie Kim L. , Bacon Simon L.
Published: July 2018

Background: Effective behaviour change interventions are needed to impact important health outcomes, including morbidity and mortality. However, the uptake and impact of behavioural interventions have been limited by methodological challenges. The International Behavioural Trials Network (IBTN) was established in 2013 to facilitate global improvement in methodological quality of behavioural trials. There has been no formal process, within the network or in the broader literature, to define the most important research priorities to achieve this aim. In this project, we will conduct an international, Delphi consensus study to identify and achieve consensus on priorities for methodological research in behavioural trials among IBTN members.

Methods: Fifteen core members of IBTN, who are experts in the field of behavioural intervention research, will be invited to generate a list of all items they consider priority areas for methodological research in trials of behavioural interventions. The IBTN Research Prioritisation team (the authors) will review all items generated, removing duplicates and merging similar topics, and generate a ‘long-list’ of items. This long-list will be sent to the 15 IBTN core members for approval.

We will then administer two online Delphi surveys to all IBTN members. In the first survey, respondents will be asked to rate the importance of each item on a nine-point scale and rank their top five priorities. In the second survey, respondents will receive feedback on others’ responses and a reminder of their own responses in survey 1, and will be asked to re-rate items and re-select their ‘top five’.

Discussion: Findings from the project will be used to inform the research agenda of the IBTN and to make recommendations for future research.
Understanding the cultural meanings of stroke in the Ghanaian setting: A qualitative study exploring the perspectives of local community residents
Authors: Sanuade Olutobi
Published: July 2018

Background: Stroke has undergone different medical constructions over the years. While the medical profession posits that disease is a biological condition, universal and unchanging, social constructionists perceive illness as the social meaning of the biological condition. Even though the medical notion of stroke is monolithic and sometimes contradicts the representations by local community residents, little attention has been paid to understanding the cultural meanings of stroke. This study explores the cultural meanings of stroke in five different cultural settings in Ghana.

Methods: 30 focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with local community members in five communities (Ga Mashie, Tafo, Gyegyeano, Chanshegu and Agorve) located in five regions in Ghana. The FGDs were conducted in Ga, Twi, Fante, Ewe and Dagbani, and were transcribed verbatim into English. The transcripts were analysed thematically.

Results: The local words used for stroke in all the five cultural settings focused on physical disability associated with stroke after its onset, and this formed the dominant source of fear about the condition. Participants mentioned that spiritual and left-side stroke have the most debilitating impact on the sufferer. Although there was a general consensus that anyone can be at risk of stroke, there was a gender dynamics in the explanation of risk relativity. Participants believed that stroke can be cured through early detection and treatment, use of herbal medicines, and availability of financial resources. Compared to other disabling conditions, the community residents perceived stroke to be more severe due to its multifaceted disabilities.

Conclusions: This study showed that the social meanings of stroke in the five communities are multifaceted, and reflected co-existence of biomedical and cultural frameworks.  The findings showed the need to pay good attention to the sociocultural context when developing interventions strategies on stroke prevention and control.
On-Demand Service Platforms
Authors: Taylor Terry A.
Published: July 2018

An on-demand service platform connects waiting-time-sensitive customers with independent service providers (agents). This paper examines how two defining features of an on-demand service platform—delay sensitivity and agent independence—impact the platform’s optimal per-service price and wage. Delay sensitivity reduces expected utility for customers and agents, which suggests that the platform should respond by decreasing the price (to encourage participation of customers) and increasing the wage (to encourage participation of agents). These intuitive price and wage prescriptions are valid in a benchmark setting without uncertainty in the customers’ valuation or the agents’ opportunity costs. However, uncertainty in either dimension can reverse the prescriptions: Delay sensitivity increases the optimal price when customer valuation uncertainty is moderate. Delay sensitivity decreases the optimal wage when agent opportunity cost uncertainty is high and expected opportunity cost is moderate. Under agent opportunity cost uncertainty, agent independence decreases the price. Under customer valuation uncertainty, agent independence increases the price if and only if valuation uncertainty is sufficiently high.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/msom.2017.0678 .
D. Vasco de Mascarenhas: nobreza e trajetória de serviços (1626-1640)
Authors: Lôpo de Araújo Érica
Published: July 2018

Resumo: Esse artigo tem como objetivo partir da definição de “lugar de nascimento” de D. Vasco de Mascarenhas – primeiro Conde de Óbidos – para compreender o papel da família na oligarquia social das famílias de primeira grandeza de Portugal e identificar as possibilidades de ascensão a um nobre. Para tanto, será realizada uma análise das escolhas feitas por Mascarenhas nos primeiros anos de serviços prestados aos reinos de Portugal e Espanha, com o intuito de pensar o papel desempenhado por esse sujeito para o sucesso de sua carreira e também a importância de sua trajetória de serviços para a monarquia portuguesa no tempo dos Filipes e princípio da Guerra da Restauração.Abstract: This article aims to define the “place of birth” of D. Vasco de Mascarenhas – the first Count of Óbidos – with the purpose of understand the role of the Family in the social oligarchy of Portugal’s first greatness families and to identify the possibilities of ascending to a nobleman. To do so, it will be made an analysis of the choices taken by Mascarenhas in the first years of services rendered by this personage to the kingdoms of Portugal and Spain with the intention of thinking about the role played by him for the sucess of his own career and also the importance of his trajectory of services to the portuguese monarchy in the time of the Filipes and the beginning of the war Restoration.
A trajetória de uma rede familiar no Pará setecentista: O caso da família Góis
Authors: Souza e Mello Marcia Eliane Alves de
Published: July 2018

Resumo: O artigo examina a trajetória da família de Manoel de Góis e seu processo de mobilidade social, ocorrido na capitania do Pará, durante o século XVIII. Analisa as estratégias de afirmação e reconhecimento social empregados por diversos membros da família, que os inseriu na elite local. Apresenta a composição de uma rede social formada pelos novos colonos reinóis e os descendentes das antigas e principais famílias no Estado do Maranhão e Grão-Pará. A análise dessa rede familiar, permite observar não apenas os percursos individuais de ascensão social que os conduziu à nobilitação, mas também, a inclusão do grupo em redes políticas e sociais que garantiram sua distinção social.Abstract: This article examines the trajectory of Manoel de Góis' family and their process of social mobility, which took place in the Pará captaincy during the 18th century. It also analyzes the strategies of affirmation and social recognition used by several family members, who inserted them into the local elite. It presents the composition of a social network formed by the new settlers and descendants of the old and main families in the State of Maranhão and Grão-Pará.The study of this family network allows us to observe not only the individual paths of social ascension that allowed them to ascend to the nobility, but also the inclusion of the group in political and social networks that guaranteed their social distinction.
Sob o signo da complexidade: trocas interculturais entre França e Brasil
Authors: De Luca Tania Regina
Published: July 2018

Resenha: FLÉCHET, Anaïs; COMPAGNON, Olivier; ALMEIDA, Silvia Capanema P. de. Como era fabuloso o meu francês! Imagens e imaginários da França no Brasil (séculos XIX-XXI). Rio de Janeiro: Fundação Casa de Rui Barbosa : 7 Letras, 2017, 395p.
Entrevista com a Professora Doutora Mafalda Soares da Cunha (Universidade de Évora)
Authors: Krause Thiago
Published: July 2018

Mafalda Soares da Cunha é professora da Universidade de Évora, onde se doutorou em 1997. É uma das principais especialistas na nobreza ibérica na época moderna e tem colaborado extensamente com os historiadores brasileiros nos últimos quinze anos. Seus trabalhos podem ser encontrados no repositório digital da Universidade de Évora. A entrevista foi realizada por Thiago Krause (Unirio) via Skype no dia 4 de maio de 2018 e depois editada por razões de concisão e clareza.
Nobrezas e hierarquias sociais, séculos XV-XIX
Authors: Silva Camila Borges da , Krause Thiago
Published: July 2018

Nobrezas e hierarquias sociais, séculos XV-XIX. Apresentação. Revista Maracanan, Rio de Janeiro, Programa de Pós-graduação em História da Universidade do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, n. 18, jul.-dez. 2018.
Time for extended GP access?
Authors: Hancock Dave
Published: July 2018

As a result of two successive government manifesto commitments, the provision of seven-day extended access to all GP services has been brought forward to 1 October 2018. Dave Hancock asks whether the NHS and patients are ready
Regular and Special Education Mexican Teachers’ Attitudes toward School Inclusion and Disability
Authors: Mezquita-Hoyos Yanko Norberto , Sanchez-Monroy Miriam Hildegare , Morales-Martinez Guadalupe Elizabeth , Lopez-Ramirez Ernesto Octavio , Reyna-Gonzalez Maria del Roble
Published: July 2018

The aim of the present study was to elucidate Mexicans teachers’ attitudes toward school inclusion and disability.  To achieve this goal, 119 regular education and 88 special education teachers answered The Opinions Relative to Integration of Students with Disabilities scale.  Subsequent analyses revealed that attitudes to both groups were similar in terms of direction but dissimilar in magnitude factor. In addition, while the attitude structure in both samples involved three factors, these were unique to each group: Regular education teachers (Perceived Benefits and Negative Effects inside the Inclusive Classroom/Performance inside the Inclusive Classroom, Teaching Ability/Education System, Performance inside the Inclusive Classroom/Education System) and the special education teachers group (Perceived Benefits inside the Inclusive Classroom/Education System, Teaching Ability/Performance inside the Inclusive Classroom, Perceived Benefits and Negative Effects inside the Inclusive Classroom/Performance inside the Inclusive Classroom). Theoretical and applied implications of these findings are discussed in this paper.
What do Brazilian School Children Know about Birds in Their Country?
Authors: Bartoszeck Amauri B. , Vandrovieski Waldineia , Tratch Vanessa , Czelusniak Franciane , Tunnicliffe Sue Dale
Published: July 2018

Children have a basic knowledge of birds that they observe during their everyday life either in their garden, other gardens, round the house, walking in the local area or in the yard on school gardens. A total of 515 children, aged 3 to 16 (249 girls and 266 boys) enrolled in southern Brazilian public preschools, primary school and secondary schools, were invited to participate in this exploratory study. A semi-structured interview was conducted with 206 pupils asking to name which birds they knew, where they had seen these birds, which ones live around home, which they had seen further away. Additionally, they were asked which birds they knew from a list and the source of this knowledge where they had learned about the birds. They were asked to draw on a sheet of paper a representation of what the word “bird” meant to them. Results show the importance of everyday observations rather than beyond formal education in the children knowledge. Children from the earliest years notice birds in their everyday lives, and build a bank of knowledge, gradually acquiring an understanding of adaptation to a variety of habitats. Children notice birds in their lives to differing extent and sources according to the culture in which they are immersed. Experiences of seeing or finding out about birds are encapsulated for many children in the form of narratives and contribute to their mental models of birds and their habitats on which they will drew in formal science later (Biology and Environmental Education). Educational implications are discussed.
An Investigation of Prospective Mathematics Teachers’ Knowledge of Basic Algorithms with Whole Numbers: A Case of Turkey
Authors: Tekin-Sitrava Reyhan
Published: July 2018

The aim of this qualitative case study is to investigate prospective mathematics teachers’ subject matter knowledge of the underlying concepts of standard and nonstandard algorithms used to solve the problems with whole numbers. Twenty three prospective mathematics teachers enrolled in the Elementary Mathematics Education Program of one of the most successful universities in Turkey were the participants of the study. The data was collected through four tasks containing basic algorithms. More specifically, the Ones Task assessed participants’ understanding of the underlying place value concepts of standard algorithms. The Andrew Task and the Doubling Task required participants to conceptualize and interpret nonstandard strategies. In the Division Task, participants were expected to provide in-depth explanation for the difference between multiplication and division and between partitive division and measurement division. The content analysis method was used to analyze the data. The results of the study revealed that more than half of the prospective mathematics teachers had knowledge about the place value of 1 in addition and subtraction, and also multiplication. However, most of the prospective teachers could not explain the underlying principle and the meaning of the nonstandard algorithm in subtraction. Similar to their knowledge on subtraction, prospective teachers’ knowledge on division was limited.
Cooperative Learning in Acquisition of the English Language Skills
Authors: Yavuz Ozlem , Arslan Ali
Published: July 2018

The purpose of the study is to reveal the effect of cooperative learning on language skills in an English course. The study was carried out for 5 weeks with 66 students studying at the 10th grade at an Anatolian high school in the district of Karadeniz Eregli in Zonguldak during the fall term of the 2015-2016 academic year. The design of the study was ‘nonequivalent control groups pre-test post-test’ which is one of quasi-experimental designs. Data were gathered using an achievement test measuring students’ vocabulary knowledge, grammar knowledge, reading comprehension and listening skills. Results showed that cooperative learning had a larger effect on vocabulary knowledge, grammar, listening and reading skills compared to traditional method.
Inaccurate First-Generation Testosterone Assays Are Influenced by Sex Hormone–Binding Globulin Concentrations
Authors: Heijboer Annemieke C , Savelkoul Edo , Kruit Adrian , Endert Erik , Blankenstein Marinus A
Published: July 2018

Background

The quality of testosterone assays has been a matter of debate for several years. Known limitations of testosterone immunoassays are the cross-reactivity with other steroids and a high variation in the low concentration range. We hypothesized that one of the additional limitations of testosterone immunoassays is an ineffective displacement of testosterone from its binding protein.

Methods

Thirty samples from women not using oral contraceptives (OAC), 30 samples from women using OAC, and 30 samples from pregnant women were used to measure testosterone by an isotope dilution (ID)-LC-MS/MS method and by 6 commercially available testosterone immunoassays (UniCel®, ARCHITECT®, Centaur®, Cobas®, Immulite®, and Liaison®). In addition, sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG)4 was measured by immunoassay (ARCHITECT).

Results

The first-generation immunoassays (UniCel, Centaur, Immulite, and Liaison) showed inaccurate testosterone results in the method comparisons with the ID-LC-MS/MS method (R between 0.61 and 0.86) and for some assays (UniCel and Liaison) also a very poor standardization (slopes of 0.59 and 0.67, respectively). On average, SHBG concentrations were lowest in women not using OAC and highest in pregnant women, and overall ranged from 18.5 to 633 nmol/L. In the first-generation immunoassays, but not in the second-generation immunoassays, we observed an inverse relationship between SHBG concentrations and deviations in testosterone from the ID-LC-MS/MS results.

Conclusions

Widely used first-generation testosterone immunoassays are influenced by SHBG concentrations, which lead to inaccurate results in samples from patients with high or low SHBG concentrations, respectively. Laboratory specialists, clinicians, and researchers should be aware of this limitation in testosterone assays.
Novel Chemiluminescent Enzyme Immunoassays for Individual Quantification of 3 Endogenous Molecular Forms of Atrial Natriuretic Peptide in Human Plasma
Authors: Nagai-Okatani Chiaki , Kangawa Kenji , Takashio Seiji , Takahama Hiroyuki , Hayashi Tomohiro , Anzai Toshihisa , Minamino Naoto
Published: July 2018

Background

Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) and B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) are cardiac peptide hormones with pivotal roles in maintaining cardiovascular homeostasis. BNP and its precursor fragment are accepted as gold standard markers for heart failure (HF). Human ANP is present in the atria of the heart and plasma as 3 endogenous molecular forms designated α-ANP, β-ANP, and proANP. A previous study indicated that the ratios of these 3 ANP forms are altered in the plasma of HF patients. The purpose of our study was to establish immunoassays for quantifying the individual ANP forms to collect clinical information.

Methods

We developed 3 plate-based chemiluminescent enzyme immunoassays (CLEIAs) for measuring total ANP (i.e., sum of α-ANP, β-ANP, and proANP), β-ANP, and proANP levels. To minimize background signals, we added single-step PEGylation targeting the immobilized antibody in the conventional plate-based sandwich CLEIA procedure.

Results

CLEIAs with PEGylation showed sensitivity, specificity, reproducibility, and accuracy satisfying clinical requirements. Two of the CLEIAs enabled direct measurement in plasma samples. During treatments, acute decompensated HF patients exhibited marked decreases in plasma β-ANP levels but moderate decreases in plasma proANP level. The plasma ratios of α-ANP/total ANP and proANP/total ANP in acute decompensated HF patients were maintained, whereas the β-ANP/total ANP ratio was significantly decreased at discharge.

Conclusions

The combination of the 3 CLEIAs enabled accurate quantification of α-ANP, β-ANP, and proANP, even in plasma samples, and indicated the potential of β-ANP and proANP as circulating biomarkers for HF, with different characteristics from that of BNP.
Analytical Performances of an Enzymatic Assay for the Measurement of Glycated Albumin
Authors: Testa Roberto , Guerra Elena , Bonfigli Anna Rita , Di Gaetano Nicola , Santini Gabriele , Ceriotti Ferruccio
Published: July 2018

Background

Short to intermediate integrated glycemic control is best determined by glycated albumin (GA). This assay is appropriate when interpretation of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is critical because of hemoglobinopathies, severe anemias, or other factors that affect red blood lifespan as hemodialysis. We evaluated a new assay based on the enzymatic quantification of GA by ketoamine oxidase and an albumin-specific protease.

Methods

Limits of blank, detection, and quantification; precision; linearity; accuracy; interferences; correlation with HbA1c; and serum vs plasma study have been evaluated on ILab® systems.

Results

Limit of blank, detection, and quantification for GA (g/L) were, respectively, 0.26, 0.36, and 1.15. Repeatability and within-device precision CVs were lower than 2.11%, 1.61%, and 1.56% for GA (g/L), albumin (g/L), and GA%, respectively. Linearity for GA (g/L) and GA% was 1.2–36.8 and 5.5–92.2, respectively. Highest deviation from linearity was <11% and recovery was higher than 90%. Accuracy against the certified ReCCS Japan Clinical Chemistry Reference Material (JCCRM) 611 was <1%. Classical interfering substances had no significant impact. Correlation of GA% between ILab® Taurus and ADVIA system was y = 1.02[GA%]+0.25; R  2 = 0.994. No difference was found in the determination of GA% in serum vs plasma.

Conclusions

GA enzymatic assay is a reliable, fully automated method allowing accurate and precise determination of GA in a routine laboratory.
Practices and Perceived Value of Proficiency Testing in Clinical Laboratories
Authors: Earley Marie C , Astles J Rex , Breckenridge Karen
Published: July 2018

Background

Proficiency testing (PT) can have regulatory and nonregulatory uses, providing an effective tool for quality improvement. Clinical laboratories were surveyed to determine how they perceive PT and how they use PT results and materials to improve laboratory testing quality.

Methods

All laboratories certified to perform nonwaived testing under the CLIA regulations expected to perform required PT were invited to participate in the survey. We examined respondents' use of PT from 5 laboratory types: hospital, independent, public health, physician office, and “all other.” Respondents' awareness of resources about PT was also examined. Several questions allowed responses on a categorical scale.

Results

Varying proportions of the respondents (n = 769) used PT to identify problems in the preanalytic (48%), analytic (86%), and postanalytic (76%) phases of testing. Responses also showed that PT was important for demonstrating personnel competency (93%), inappropriate specimen handling (80%), incorrect result interpretation (84%), and other uses. Respondents purchased PT even when not required to do so (77%). Based on all responses, most considered PT worth the cost (65%).

Conclusions

Laboratories, regardless of type, have found ways of using leftover PT samples and the information from PT event summaries to help improve laboratory quality. Our findings suggest many laboratories are not taking full advantage of PT to improve testing quality. Additionally, the study suggests a need to improve awareness of resources about PT.