bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating Indigenous Values into Federal Agency Impact Assessments to Reduce Conflicts—A Role for Anthropologists
Authors: Stapp Darby C.
Published: April 2018

Conflicts surrounding the development of public lands are on the rise around the world. In the United States, where laws require federal agencies to conduct environmental and cultural impact assessments before approving or permitting development projects, conflicts still occur. This is especially true for projects that impact indigenous lands, resources, and communities, as the recent controversy surrounding Dakota Access Pipeline project so well illustrates. The purpose of this article is to highlight some of the problems I have encountered as an anthropologist conducting cultural impact assessments for federal agencies and for indigenous communities. Central among the problems encountered are the lack of awareness and appreciation for indigenous values by project proponents, agencies, and sometimes even the analysts hired to conduct the assessments. Recommendations for improving the quality of cultural impact assessments, which are based on the tenets of Action Anthropology, are explained.
Reflections on Jen Sandler and Renita Thedvall (eds.). 2017. Meeting Ethnography: Meetings as Key Technologies of Contemporary Governance, Development, and Resistance. New York: Routledge.
Authors: Archer Matthew
Published: April 2018

Readers’ Corner: Reflections on Jen Sandler and Renita Thedvall (eds.). 2017. Meeting Ethnography: Meetings as Key Technologies of Contemporary Governance, Development, and Resistance. New York: Routledge.
A heat transfer analysis from a porous plate with transpiration cooling
Authors: Kilic Mustafa
Published: April 2018

Present study is focused on improving heat transfer from a porous plate by cooling of air with transpiration cooling. Effects of Reynolds number of the air channel flow and particle diameter on cooling effectiveness of porous plate and efficiency of system were investigated experimentally. It was observed that increasing Reynolds number of 15.2% causes a decrease of 6.9% on cooling efficiency of the system and a decrease of 8.6% on cooling effectiveness of porous plate. Decreasing particle diameter causes a significant decrease on surface temperature and an increase on cooling effectiveness of porous plate. Difference of cooling effectiveness of porous plate from dp = 40-200 ?m is 12%. Verification of this study was also shown by comparing experimental results of this study with literature.
AIM Corporation: A Business Fraud Case Study
Authors: Weirich Thomas R. , Churyk Natalie Tatiana
Published: April 2018

The Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (2016) indicates that asset misappropriation is the most common form of occupational fraud. Based upon a real company, this case contains six frauds: collusions, commissions, fictitious sales, rebates, refunds, and write-offs. It also includes several asset misappropriation (e.g., theft of cash, misuse of inventory, and fraudulent reimbursement) schemes. Furthermore, four of the six frauds are not found in other published case studies. The case seeks to enhance learning by having students (1) examine multiple fraudulent schemes within a single company, (2) identify frauds after examining firm procedures and documents, (3) suggest applicable fraud protection procedures, (4) identify internal control weaknesses, and (5) apply the fraud triangle. Undergraduate and graduate students from two universities performed well on the case.
A gramática galega, un río de curso curto e sinuoso. Panorama histórico dos estudios gramaticais sobre o galego
Authors: Cidrás Francisco , Dubert-García Francisco
Published: April 2018

Este traballo pretende ser unha revisión histórica dos estudos que se teñen realizado sobre a morfoloxía e a sintaxe do galego. Ora ben, o obxectivo da presente contribución é ofrecer unha panorámica das liñas mestras da produción gramatical galega, non unha prolixa enumeración de traballos publicados ata o presente. Tras analizar o atraso histórico con que o galego chegou a ser obxecto de estudo científico rigoroso e as causas deste atraso, preséntase unha exposición crítica sobre as liñas temáticas e orientacións dominantes nos estudos de morfoloxía e de sintaxe do galego. O traballo remata cunha exposición dos desafíos que ten a lingüística galega cara ao futuro.
Effects of Egg Shell Temperature and Incubator Ventilation Programme on Incubation Results of Broiler Breeders
Authors: Okur Nezih , Eratalar Sabri Arda , Eleroğlu Hasan
Published: April 2018

The impacts of egg weight (EW), egg shell temperature (EST), egg position in the incubator (EP) and incubator ventilation program (IVP) on embryonic mortality (EM) and hatchability of fertile eggs (HFE) of broiler breeders were investigated in this study. EW was determined total 1920 hatching eggs which were obtained from middle aged (31 weeks) Ross 308 broiler breeders. These eggs were classified according to weight as heavy (65.52±0.08g), medium (61.47±0.04g) and light (57.56±0.08g) then were randomly set in trolleys of four identical incubators sorted as near the heather side – door side, humidifier side – opposite side and top – middle – bottom. In two incubators 37.78Â°C (100.0Â°F) EST and 38.06Â°C (100.5Â°F) EST were provided in the other two. Similarly, two machines were operated on classic IVP system and the other two were operated on new IVP system organised specially for this project during first 10 days of incubation. At the end of the hatching period, data including EM and HFE data were examined in eggs with different EST, EW and EP. It was found that EW and EST were affected to EM and HFE. Lower last stage + pipped but unhatched embryo rates and accordingly higher HFE were determined in eggs with 37.78Â°C (100.0Â°F) EST and light. However, differences between IVP and EP data were not significant.
O CONSTITUCIONALISMO FRATERNAL E SUA CONSISTÊNCIA ENQUANTO PROPOSIÇÃO LÓGICO-ARGUMENTATIVA
Authors: Lopes Francisco
Published: April 2018

O objetivo deste artigo é analisar os votos do ministro Ayres Britto em alguns julgados de grande impacto social nos temas Cotas Raciais, Lei de Biossegurança e União Homoafetiva, cotejando-os com as suas duas obras que embasam o constitucionalismo fraternal: A Teoria da Constituição e Humanismo como Categoria Constitucional. A aplicação do princípio da fraternidade é colocada à prova frente a alguns parâmetros de interpretação, em especial aqueles defendidos por Alex Fisher em A Lógica dos Verdadeiros Argumentos. Previsivelmente, a defensabilidade do princípio da fraternidade transita bem frente às enormes desigualdades sociais em que vivemos, mas a sua abertura semântica tende a remeter o intérprete para além das questões suscitadas nos caso concreto, principalmente quando se discutem questões de grande complexidade e de grande impacto no tecido social. A lógica argumentativa serve para distinguir os argumentos válidos dos argumentos inválidos, os argumentos bons dos maus. Trata-se de estabelecer critérios objetivos que permitam saber se a conclusão de um argumento é aceitável, no caso de as premissas serem verdadeiras. Diferente disso é a simples retórica, ou a arte da persuasão, que visa fazer um auditório aderir aos pontos de vista apresentados. As teses fundamentadas no constitucionalismo fraternal privilegiam a retórica emocional sobre a técnica lógico-argumentativa. A consequência disso é a redundância argumentativa, a falta de foco no problema e, mais importante, a impossibilidade de se colocar um ponto final nas questões suscitadas. Todos esses fatores colaboram para uma indesejável insegurança jurídica.
OS ARTIGOS 926 E 927 DO CÓDIGO DE PROCESSO CIVIL DE 2015: A ESTABILIDADE DA JURISPRUDÊNCIA E A POSSIBILIDADE DE MODULAÇÃO DE EFEITOS TEMPORAIS POR MUDANÇA DE JURISPRUDÊNCIA
Authors: Une Wagner Akitomi
Published: April 2018

O estudo da estabilidade da jurisprudência e da possibilidade de modulação de efeitos temporais por mudança de jurisprudência ganha especial importância diante do novo Código de Processo Civil. A nova lei se preocupa com a existência de posicionamentos diferentes e incompatíveis no Judiciário relativos a uma mesma norma jurídica. Por isso, um dos objetivos encartados na nova lei é justamente incentivar a uniformização da jurisprudência, promovendo, após, a sua estabilização. Isso não significa, no entanto, a imutabilidade da interpretação pelos Tribunais. A estabilidade da jurisprudência deve ser vista no novo Código de Processo Civil sob duas perspectivas, isto é, o maior esforço argumentativo para a superação do entendimento jurisprudencial e a possibilidade de modulação dos efeitos temporais quando da alteração da jurisprudência. Assim, a segurança jurídica, especialmente sob o seu viés subjetivo da legítima confiança, é o fundamento constitucional para afastar as constantes mudanças jurisprudenciais e, por vezes, a aplicação retroativa de novo entendimento jurisdicional.
AS NOVAS AÇÕES REGRESSIVAS DO INSS: UMA ANÁLISE SOB A ÓTICA DO DIREITO CIVIL-CONSTITUCIONAL E DA FUNÇÃO SOCIAL DA RESPONSABILIDADE CIVIL
Authors: Lócio Rodrigo Medeiros
Published: April 2018

Analisa-se o instituto das “novas” Ações Regressivas Previdenciárias ajuizadas pelo Instituto Nacional da Seguridade Social – INSS para obter o ressarcimento das despesas referentes à concessão de benefícios previdenciários oriundas do cometimento de crimes de trânsito e ilícitos penais dolosos, sob o fundamento normativo da Responsabilidade Civil (art. 186 c/c 927 do Código Civil) a partir da visão da Constitucionalização do Direito Civil e da função social no dever de indenizar.
IMPOSTO DE IMPORTAÇÃO E TUTELA AO MEIO AMBIENTE: UMA ANÁLISE DO CAFÉ EM CÁPSULA
Authors: Pintarelli Camila
Published: April 2018

Nosso estudo abordará a atual questão dos resíduos sólidos pós-consumo atrelando-a à extrafiscalidade, como forma de verificar a compatibilidade da Resolução Camex n. 18/2015 com o ordenamento jurídico brasileiro. Para tanto, discorreremos sobre a massificação do consumo do café em cápsula no Brasil e no mundo, e suas consequências em termos de geração de resíduos. Ainda, verificaremos se o consumo ambientalmente sustentável pode atuar como condicionante no arbitramento de alíquotas de tributos extrafiscais, em análise desenvolvida a partir da noção de intervenção do Estado no domínio econômico. Ao final, faremos algumas reflexões conclusivas sobre os equívocos legais a opção tributária externada na Resolução Camex n. 18/2015.
Partnership of Digital Libraries Hathi Trust Digital Library: the New Mode of Cooperation
Authors: Savitskaya Tatiana E.
Published: April 2018

There is analysed the activities of digital libraries partnership Hathi Trust Digital Library (HTDL), arose in October 2008 in the United States as a collaborative repository of digital collections of library systems of 13 universities in the U.S. Middle West and digital collections of 11 universities in California (now numbering 124 libraries). In the United States — the leader of IT-technologies — has been accumulated the vast experience in the field of organization of electronic resources, carried out a large-scale reorganization of library industry, the results of which are not sufficiently covered in the domestic library science. For the first time, the Russian library community is invited to learn the specific experience of the formation and operation of the partnership of digital libraries HTDL, based on the principle of institutional cooperation and coordination of management solutions in the conservation and maintenance of electronic collections.

The main tasks of the distributed data warehouse belonging to the partnership group of large research libraries are: providing access to the digital collection first of all for collective users, libraries — co-founders; preservation of intellectual heritage through reliable and accessible electronic representation, improvement of open technological infrastructure. The HTML concept is based on the conscious preservation of the specificity of research libraries, when the user is offered a body of special catalogued literature, and the ranking of search results is not influenced by the commercial interests. It is noted that HTDL is built on the basis of an extensive network of interlibrary entities in the United States with extensive cooperation in the field of administration, cataloguing, and storage of printed materials.

There are considered the priority achievements of Hathi Trust Digital Library: development of the new models of interlibrary cooperation, efficient distributed management structure, transparent scheme of payment calculation of infrastructure maintenance. The dynamics of the development of this resource from the moment of formation to the present time is analysed.
New Historicism
Authors: Hickling Matt
Published: April 2018

An analysis of new historcism as a keywords in education essay
The International wheelchair basketball federation’s classification system
Authors: Molik Bartosz , Laskin James J.
Published: April 2018

The purpose of this exploratory study was to evaluate opinions of elite athletes, coaches and classifiers regarding the International Wheelchair Basketball Federation’s (IWBF) functional classification system. We were also interested in the athletes’ perspective regarding potential changes to the classification system. In addition, we compared the generalized opinions reported by the athletes to those of coaches and classification officers. This survey was administered during the Wheelchair Basketball Gold Cup (Amsterdam, 2006). Seventy-nine athletes, 50 men and 29 women, as well as 12 coaches and 14 classifiers completed the survey. The first part of the survey addressed demographic characteristics of the participants. The second part focused on their opinions regarding the current classification system. Based on the survey responses, athletes reported that the IWBF classification system is generally satisfactory. However, athletes as well as coaches and classification officers did report some specific concerns about this classification system. These concerns included changes in an athlete classification, athlete cheating and communication between classifiers and athletes. Athletes, coaches and classifiers, as the wheelchair basketball’s primary constituent groups, have a vested interest in the evolution of the game and should be included in the evaluation and modifications to the functional classification system. This study has demonstrated that a classification specific survey could provide useful information and insight into the perspectives of these constituent groups.
Tracking changes in the upper boundary of the heavy-intensity exercise domain:
Authors: Wang Ran , Fukuda David H.
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to compare how respiratory compensation point (RCP) and end-test power (EP) change in response to the same four-week high intensity interval training (HIIT). The power output associated with RCP and EP before and after HIIT were recorded in 24 recreationally-active participants (14 men and 10 women). RCP was determined from an incremental exercise test and EP was derived from a three-minute maximal effort test on a cycle ergometer. A significant time (pretest/posttest) × measurement (EP/RCP) interaction was found (F(1, 23)=5.119, p<.05). Results from a paired-sample t-test indicated that both EP (t(23)= -5.221, p<.05) and RCP (t(23)=-3.049, p<.05) increased significantly from pretest to posttest. Furthermore, a small effect size (d=.36, 90%CI=[.13, .58]) was calculated for the pre/posttest changes in the examined thresholds indicating greater potential improvements in EP compared to RCP. The pre/posttest change in EP (mean=21 W, 90%CI=[14, 28 W]) exceeded its standard error of estimate (14 W), while RCP did not. Correlation analysis revealed that EP correlated with RCP at both pretest (r=.813, p<.05) and posttest (r=.873, p<.05), however, delta values between the two measures were not significantly related. Both EP and RCP can be used to assess the change of aerobic capacity after HIIT, but may be reflective of different physiological adaptations. Further, EP may be preferred over RCP when assessing the effects of HIIT.
The effect of shooting range on the dynamics of limbs angular velocities of the basketball shot
Authors: Podmenik Nadja , Čoh Milan
Published: April 2018

The aim of our research was to describe the joint angular velocities of young basketball players (U16) during their performance of jump shots and to find out what is the effect of increasing shooting range on these velocities. Our sample included 14 players that performing the function of guards. Their average age (±SD) was 15.43±0.51 years. The analysis contemplated 370 field goals, which were performed from three different distances (3.75 m, 5.25 m and 6.75 m) perpendicular to the hoop board. The measurements were performed using an Xsens MVN inertial suit. The results showed that the maximum angular velocity in the shoulder and elbow joint became greater with the increase of shooting range. In the throw from the shortest distance, the segments were integrated into the movement of the shooting arm according to the proximaldistal principle. The temporal sequences of maxima velocities in legs were preserved in throws from all the three distances. The findings are important for young basketball players and their coaches. They have to be aware of the needed adjustments to the techniques of throws from various ranges and they must take them into account when practicing.
A Big Data Demand Estimation Framework for Modelling Urban Congested Networks
Authors: Viti Francesco , Cantelmo Guido
Published: April 2018

This paper deals with the problem of estimating daily mobility flows using different sources of data, and in particular from mobile devices such as mobile phones and floating car data. First, the dynamic origin-destination (OD) estimation problem is presented in its classical bi-level formulation, and opportunities and challenges of introducing new data types with respect to the classical fixed sensors are discussed. We show how mobile phone data can be used to better estimate the structure of the demand matrix, both temporally (i.e. the daily generated flows from each zone) and spatially (i.e. distributing the flows on the different OD pairs). Then, floating car data and traffic counts can be used to further distribute the demand on the available modes and routes, according to the classical 4-step procedure. During this phase, a behavioural modelling approach is used, according to traditional dynamic user equilibrium using a joint route and departure time choice model. Floating car data information is used to estimate speed profiles at all links where information is available, and for route travel times, which feed the utility-based models. A two-step approach is then proposed to solve the problem for large scale networks, in which the total demand is first generated, and then equilibrium is calculated through a dynamic traffic assignment model. The effectiveness and reliability of the proposed modelling framework is then shown on a realistic case study involving the multimodal network of Luxembourg City and its surrounding, and is compared to the traditional bi-level formulation solved using the Generalised Least Square Estimation. The comparison shows how the two-step approach is more robust in generating realistic daily OD flows, and in exploiting the information collected from mobile sensors.
Genç Bireylerde Fiziksel Aktivitenin Akademik Başarı ve Depresyon Üzerine Etkisi
Authors: SEREL ARSLAN Selen , ALEMDAROĞLU İpek , ÖKSÜZ Çiğdem , KARADUMAN Aynur Ayşe , TUNCA YILMAZ Öznur
Published: April 2018

Amaç: Çalışmanın
amacı; genç bireylerde fiziksel aktivite düzeyinin akademik başarı ve depresyon
üzerine etkisini belirlemektir. Gereç ve Yöntem: Katılımcıların
yaş ve cinsiyet bilgileri kaydedildi. Akademik başarı için not ortalamaları
sorgulandı. Fiziksel aktivite düzeyi, Uluslararası Fiziksel Aktivite
Değerlendirme Anketi kısa formu kullanılarak belirlendi. Depresyon düzeyi ise
Beck Depresyon Envanteri ile değerlendirildi. Sonuçlar: Çalışmaya
%69.3’ü kız olmak üzere yaş ortalaması 21.64±0.97 yıl olan 140 lisans düzeyinde
olan genç birey katıldı. Katılımcıların akademik başarı ortalaması 2.98±0.41,
ve haftalık fiziksel aktivite ortalaması 2587.40±2279.83 MET-dk/hafta’idi. Beck
Depresyon Envanteri ortalama puanı 11.39±8.47’idi. Fiziksel aktivite düzeyi ile
akademik başarı arasında pozitif yönde, zayıf (p=0.02, r=0.19) ve depresyon
arasında negatif yönde, zayıf ilişki bulundu (p=0.01, r=-0.21).Tartışma: Genç bireylerde fiziksel aktivite düzeyinin
arttırılmasının akademik başarıyı artırma ve depresyonu azaltma üzerine olumlu
etkileri olabileceği düşünülmektedir. Bu nedenle gençlerde fiziksel aktiviteyi
teşvik eden olanakların sağlanması sağlıklı ve başarılı bir nesil için
önemlidir.
A Note on Lapsi Production in Bhaktapur District of Nepal
Authors: Rajbhandari Joshi Rinita
Published: April 2018

Lapsi (Choerospondias axillaris: an indigenous fruit tree of Nepal) is grown in temperate climate. The study of socio-economy of Lapsi Fruits in Bhaktapur District of Nepal was conducted in 2016. Bhaktapur district is selected on the basis of coverage area of Lapsi production, processing small scale industries, marketing value and its use by consumers. Forty respondents are selected and interviewed for group discussion and collection of primary and secondary data from different institutions. The coverage of production area of Lapsi fruits is 198.0 hectare and total production is 105.0 metric ton with productivity of 0.9 metric ton per hectare. The harvested Lapsi fruits are sold to local and urban markets. Major processed products of Lapsi fruit are Candy sweet, Candy hot, Titaura, Mada, Pickle, Jam and Lapsi powder. The overall average cost of production of Lapsi fruits is NRs. 2250.0/ropani and gross return NRs.7150.0/ropani with net profit of NRs4900.0/ropani. Therefore, the benefit cost ratio is 3.1. The wholesale prices of the products Mada, Titaura, Candy sweet, Candy hot, Pickle, Jam and Powder are NRs,.105.0/Kg, NRs.158.0/Kg, NRs.175.0, NRs. 190.0/Kg, NRs290.0/Kg, NRs225.0/Kg and NRs275.0/Kg respectively. The study findings suggest that improved varieties of Lapsi fruits should be disseminated to local farmers to increase in production. Government policies should be clear to facilitate Lapsi fruits producers with loans of minimum interest. The quality products of Lapsi candies should be exported as it helps to earn foreign currency and promotes economic development of Nepal.The Journal of Development and Administrative Studies (JODAS)Vol. 24 (1-2), pp. 63-70
Milling the Mistletoe: Nanotechnological Conversion of African Mistletoe (Loranthus micranthus) Intoantimicrobial Materials
Authors: Sarfraz Muhammad , Griffin Sharoon , Gabour Sad Tamara , Alhasan Rama , Nasim Muhammad Jawad , Irfan Masood Muhammad , Schäfer Karl Herbert , Ejike Chukwunonso E.C.C. , Keck Cornelia M. , Jacob Claus , Ebokaiwe Azubuike P.
Published: April 2018

Nanosizing represents a straight forward technique to unlock the biological activity of complex plant materials. The aim of this study was to develop herbal nanoparticles with medicinal value from dried leaves and stems of Loranthus micranthus with the aid of ball-milling, high speed stirring, and high-pressure homogenization techniques. The milled nanoparticles were characterized using laser diffraction analysis, photon correlation spectroscopy analysis, and light microscopy. The average size of leaf nanoparticles was around 245 nm and that of stem nanoparticles was around 180 nm. The nanoparticles were tested for their antimicrobial and nematicidal properties against a Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli, a Gram-positive bacterium Staphylococcus carnosus, fungi Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and a nematode Steinernemafeltiae. The results show significant activities for both leaf and (particularly) stem nanoparticles of Loranthus micranthus on all organisms tested, even at a particle concentration as low as 0.01% (w/w). The results observed indicate that nanoparticles (especially of the stem) of Loranthus micranthus could serve as novel antimicrobial agents with wide-ranging biomedical applications.
Stability Analysis of Stagnation-Point Flow in a Nanofluid over a Stretching/Shrinking Sheet with Second-Order Slip, Soret and Dufour Effects: A Revised Model
Authors: Najib Najwa , Bachok Norfifah , Arifin Norihan Md , Ali Fadzilah Md
Published: April 2018

The mathematical model of the two-dimensional steady stagnation-point flow over a stretching or shrinking sheet of nanofluid in the presence of the Soret and Dufour effects and of second-order slip at the boundary was considered in this paper. The partial differential equations were transformed into the ordinary differential equations by applying a suitable similarity transformation. The numerical results were obtained by using bvp4c codes in Matlab. The skin friction coefficient, heat transfer coefficient, mass transfer coefficient, as well as the velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles were presented graphically for different values of slip parameters, Soret effect, Dufour effect, Brownian motion parameter, and thermophoresis parameter. A dual solution was obtained in this present paper. The presence of the slip parameters (first- and second-order slip parameters) was found to expand the range of solutions. However, the presence of the slip parameters led to a decrease in the skin friction coefficient, whereas the heat transfer coefficient increased. Besides that, a larger Soret effect (smallest Dufour effect) led to the decrement of the heat transfer coefficient. The effects of the Brownian motion and thermophoresis parameters on the heat transfer coefficient were also studied in this paper. A stability analysis was performed in this paper to verify the stability of the solutions obtained.
Long-Term Rainfall Trends over the Tanzania Coast
Authors: Kabanda Tibangayuka
Published: April 2018

Spatial and temporal rainfall trends over the Tanzanian coast are analysed and trends for over 50 years are investigated. This type of study is crucial at this time because the area under study is now one of the world’s economic hotspots, as major gas fields have been discovered and the area also has high potential for oil field discoveries. Methods applied in this study include the Mann-Kendall test for rainfall data to detect the long-term trends, while Sen’s slope estimator test was used for finding the magnitude of change over time. The results exhibited rainfall trend patterns with substantial variations between the stations. The Z value of the Mann-Kendall test showed various months with negative trend at a significance level ≥95%. The few months that showed a positive trend were not statistically significant. Generally, rainfall trends varied in different months for different stations. However, the most outstanding observation on individual months is July, which showed a highly statistically significant (99.9%) reduction in rainfall for the whole coastal area, including the regions of Mtwara, Dar es Salaam and Tanga. The last part of this paper describes the relationship between July rainfall and the horizontal winds from the National Centre for Environmental Prediction/National Centre for Atmospheric Research (NCEP/NCAR) re-analysis. It is observed that the strength of the anticyclonic flow over the southwest Indian Ocean, which is associated with the westward fluxes of moisture, is responsible for rainfall over the whole coastal area of Tanzania during July.
Unprecedented Proline-Based Heterogeneous Organocatalyst for Selective Production of Vanillin
Authors: Saberi Farveh , Rodriguez-Padrón Daily , Garcia Araceli , Shaterian Hamid Reza , Luque Rafael
Published: April 2018

An organocatalytic system based on an unprecedented proline analogue and iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles (Prn/Fe2O3@SiO2) was designed and employed in vanillin production from isoeugenol and vanillyl alcohol. Full characterization of the obtained catalyst revealed the successful functionalization of the nanoparticle surface with the organic moieties. The activity of the magnetic bifunctional material was compared with its proton-unexchanged counterpart. Interestingly, the oxidation of isoeugenol resulted in being highly dependent on the acidic functionalities of the organocatalyst. Nonetheless, the catalytic performance of the proton-unexchanged catalyst suggested that the acidic and basic sites of the Prn/Fe2O3@SiO2 exhibited a synergic effect, giving rise to higher conversion and selectivity. The presence of bifunctional groups in the proline analogue, together with the magnetic properties of the iron oxide nanoparticles, could lead to high efficiency, versatility, recoverability, and reusability.
Update Treatment for HBV Infection and Persistent Risk for Hepatocellular Carcinoma: Prospect for an HBV Cure
Authors: Yoo Joseph , Hann Hie-Won , Coben Robert , Conn Mitchell , DiMarino Anthony J.
Published: April 2018

Since the discovery of the hepatitis B virus (HBV) by Blumberg et al. in 1965, its genome, sequence, epidemiology, and hepatocarcinogenesis have been elucidated. Globally, hepatitis B virus (HBV) is still responsible for the majority of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). HCC is the sixth-most common cancer in the world and the second-most common cancer death. The ultimate goal of treating HBV infection is the prevention of HCC. Fortunately, anti-HBV treatment with nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs), which began with lamivudine in 1998, has resulted in remarkable improvements in the survival of patients with chronic hepatitis B and a reduced incidence of HCC. These results were documented with lamivudine, entecavir, and tenofovir. Nonetheless, as the duration of antiviral treatment increases, the risk for HCC still remains despite undetectable HBV DNA in serum, as reported by different investigators with observation up to 4–5 years. In our own experience, we are witnessing the development of HCC in patients who have received antiviral treatment. Some have enjoyed negative serum HBV DNA for over 12 years before developing HCC. Current treatment with NAs can effectively suppress the replication of the virus but cannot eradicate the covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) that is within the nucleus of hepatocytes. There still remains a great need for a cure for HBV. Fortunately, several compounds have been identified that have the potential to eradicate HBV, and there are ongoing clinical trials in progress in their early stages.
Looking Good and Being Good: Women Leaders in Australian Universities
Authors: Fitzgerald Tanya
Published: April 2018

In this article, I argue that women in senior leadership positions in universities continue to face a number of tensions and ambiguities in their everyday working lives. Drawing on the metaphors of ‘looking good’ and ‘being good’, I highlight the gendered assumptions that senior women encounter. As senior leaders, women are simultaneously required to negotiate an inherently masculine culture yet at the same time are expected to exercise a level of femininity. Their physical presence, appearance, clothing, gestures, and behaviours are central to the bodily exercise of leadership. As the data presented illustrate, women’s leadership bodies and bodily performances reflect gendered institutional norms and assumptions about how leaders should look and act.
An Exploration of Cultural Factors and Their Influence on Saudi Arabian University Deans’ Leadership Perceptions and Practices
Authors: Abu Alsuood Yousef , Youde Andrew
Published: April 2018

This article reports an investigation into societal and organizational cultural influences on academic leadership in Saudi Arabian higher education, a previously underexplored area. In Saudi Arabia, it is currently unclear how university deans are negotiating the balance between organizational cultural values and contemporary influences, and how the values they embrace may influence their leadership practices and effectiveness. The study has been conducted in eight main governmental universities under the Ministry of Education. Qualitative data has been collected, involving interviews with fifteen university deans, with data scrutinized by an interpretive thematic analysis. The deans’ responses indicated dissatisfaction with the broad societal culture around them and the negative influence this had on leadership practices. Tensions were apparent between traditional values and change, and the influence of family and tribal backgrounds. Five organizational cultural themes were identified as influences on deans’ leadership—a centralized environment, strict regulations, the authority of top management, selection and promotion issues, and reputational factors. The study’s outcomes contribute to the understanding of leadership perceptions and practices within a particular cultural context.
Load Disaggregation via Pattern Recognition: A Feasibility Study of a Novel Method in Residential Building
Authors: Kwak Younghoon , Hwang Jihyun , Lee Taewon
Published: April 2018

In response to the need to improve energy-saving processes in older buildings, especially residential ones, this paper describes the potential of a novel method of disaggregating loads in light of the load patterns of household appliances determined in residential buildings. Experiments were designed to be applicable to general residential buildings and four types of commonly used appliances were selected to verify the method. The method assumes that loads are disaggregated and measured by a single primary meter. Following the metering of household appliances and an analysis of the usage patterns of each type, values of electric current were entered into a Hidden Markov Model (HMM) to formulate predictions. Thereafter, the HMM repeatedly performed to output the predicted data close to the measured data, while errors between predicted and the measured data were evaluated to determine whether they met tolerance. When the method was examined for 4 days, matching rates in accordance with the load disaggregation outcomes of the household appliances (i.e., laptop, refrigerator, TV, and microwave) were 0.994, 0.992, 0.982, and 0.988, respectively. The proposed method can provide insights into how and where within such buildings energy is consumed. As a result, effective and systematic energy saving measures can be derived even in buildings in which monitoring sensors and measurement equipment are not installed.
Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of a Proprietary Alpha-Amylase Inhibitor from White Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) on Weight and Fat Loss in Humans
Authors: Udani Jay , Tan Ollie , Molina Jhanna
Published: April 2018

The aim of this meta-analysis was to examine the evidence for the effectiveness of a proprietary alpha-amylase inhibitor from white bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) supplementation interventions in humans on modification of body weight and fat mass. A systematic literature search was performed using three databases: PubMed, the Cochrane collaboration, and Google Scholar. In addition, the manufacturer was contacted for internal unpublished data, and finally, the reference section of relevant original research and review papers were mined for additional studies. Eleven studies were selected for the meta-analysis of weight loss (a total of 573 subjects), and three studies for the meta-analysis of body fat reduction (a total of 110 subjects), as they fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Phaseolus vulgaris supplementation showed an average effect on weight loss difference of −1.08 kg (95% CI (confidence interval), −0.42 kg to −1.16 kg, p < 0.00001), and the average effect on body fat reduction was 3.26 kg (95% CI, −2.35 kg to −4.163 kg, p = 0.02). This meta-analysis found statistically significant effects of Phaseolus vulgaris supplementation on body weight and body fat.
Elevated CO2 Concentrations Impact the Semiochemistry of Aphid Honeydew without Having a Cascade Effect on an Aphid Predator
Authors: Boullis Antoine , Blanchard Solène , Francis Frédéric , Verheggen François
Published: April 2018

Honeydew is considered a cornerstone of the interactions between aphids and their natural enemies. Bacteria activity occurring in aphid honeydew typically results in the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are used by the natural enemies of aphids to locate their prey. Because atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration directly impacts the physiology of plants, we raise the hypothesis that elevated CO2 concentrations impact the quantity of honeydew produced by aphids, as well as the diversity and quantity of honeydew VOCs, leading to cascade effects on the foraging behavior of aphids’ natural enemies. Using solid-phase microextraction, we analyzed the VOCs emitted by honeydew from pea aphids (Acyrthosiphon pisum Harris) reared under 450 ± 50 ppm of CO2 (aCO2) or 800 ± 50 ppm CO2 (eCO2). While the total amount of honeydew excreted was only slightly reduced by eCO2 concentrations, we detected qualitative and quantitative differences in the semiochemistry of aphid honeydew between CO2 conditions. Three VOCs were not found in the honeydew of eCO2 aphids: 3-methyl-2-buten-1-ol, 2-methyl-1-butanol, and isobutanol. However, no difference was observed in the searching and oviposition behaviors of hoverfly (Episyrphus balteatus (De Geer)) females exposed to plants covered with honeydew originating from the different CO2 conditions. The present work showed the effect of a particular aspect of atmospheric changes, and should be extended to other abiotic parameters, such as temperature.
t-Norm Fuzzy Incidence Graphs
Authors: Mordeson John N. , Mathew Sunil
Published: April 2018

It is the case that, in certain applications of fuzzy graphs, a t-norm, instead of a minimum, is more suitable. This requires the development of a new theory of fuzzy graphs involving an arbitrary t-norm in the basic definition of a fuzzy graph. There is very little known about this type of fuzzy graph. The purpose of this paper is to further develop this type of fuzzy graph. We concentrate on the relatively new concept of fuzzy incidence graphs.
Postoperative Survival in Patients With Multiple Brain Metastases
Authors: Auslands Kaspars , Apškalne Daina , Bicāns Kārlis , Ozols Rolfs , Ozoli Henrijs
Published: April 2018

Background and Objective. Although surgery is traditionally performed for patients with a single brain metastasis, an increasing number of patients with multiple brain metastases may also be treated surgically. The objective of the study was to analyze postoperative survival results and the clinical factors affecting these results. Material and Methods. The records of the patients who underwent surgical resection of 2 or more lesions between January 2005 and January 2010 were retrospectively reviewed. Survival was calculated from the date of surgery to the last follow-up evaluation or death, and different clinical factors were analyzed in regard to patient survival. Results. In total, 36 patients underwent one or more craniotomies. The survival of the total group ranged from 16 days to 37.5 months (mean, 29 months). There were 4 deaths within 30 days. When divided into Radiation Therapy Oncology Group RPA classes, the survival time was 11.75, 8.58, and 5.31 months for classes 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Regarding an impact on the survival, a significant association with a favorable outcome was found for the following factors: the number of brain metastases (2–3 vs. 4–6, P=0.046), RPA classes (1 vs. 2 or 3, P=0.0192), and extent of metastasis resection (all vs. partial, P=0.018). Conclusions. Well-selected patients with multiple brain metastases appear to benefit from surgery compared with historical controls of patients treated with whole-brain radiotherapy alone.
Different Patterns of Lung Sirtuin Expression in Smokers With and Without Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Isajevs Sergejs , Strazda Gunta , Kopeika Uldis , Taivans Immanuels
Published: April 2018

Background and Objective. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is characterized by persistent and modified inflammatory responses in lung. Human sirtuin, an antiaging and antiinflammatory protein, is a metabolic NAD(+)-dependent protein/histone deacetylase that regulates proinflammatory mediators by deacetylating histone and nonhistone proteins. The aim of our study was to compare the expression of sirtuin in large and small airways in nonsmokers, asymptomatic smokers, and smokers with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Material and Methods. A total of 12 nonsmokers, 14 asymptomatic smokers, and 12 smokers with moderate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were enrolled into the study. Immunohistochemical and Western blot methods were used to analyze sirtuin expression in the airways. Results. The obtained results showed the nonuniform sirtuin expression throughout the bronchial tree. Smokers both with and without chronic obstructive pulmonary disease had decreased sirtuin expression in large airways. However, in small airways, sirtuin expression was decreased only in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. In addition, a correlation between airflow limitation, smoked pack-years and the number of sirtuin-positive cells in airways was found. Conclusions. Smoking is characterized by suppressed sirtuin expression in large airways, whereas chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is characterized by more severe suppression of sirtuin expression both in large and small airways.
Evaluation of Health-Related Quality of Life in Lithuanian Brain Tumor Patients Using the EORTC Brain Cancer Module
Authors: Bunevičius Adomas , Tamašauskas Šarūnas , Tamašauskas Arimantas , Deltuva Vytenis
Published: April 2018

Background and Objective. Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is considered an important outcome measure in neuro-oncology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the brain cancer-specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-BN20) of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) in Lithuanian brain tumor patients. Material and Methods. One hundred consecutive patients (71% of women; mean age, 58±14 years) admitted for elective brain tumor surgery were evaluated for HRQoL using the QLQ-BN20, QLQ-C30 (a core EORTC questionnaire for cancer patients), and SF-36 scale; for motor dysfunction (clinical examination); for cognitive dysfunction (Mini-Mental State Examination); and for disability (Barthel Index). Results. The QLQ-BN20 subscales had an adequate internal consistency (Cronbach α, 0.75– 0.90). Motor dysfunction on neurological examination was associated with greater motor dysfunction on the QLQ-BN20; greater disability, with greater future uncertainty, motor dysfunction, communication deficits, headaches, seizures, drowsiness, itchy skin, weakness of legs, and poor bladder control on the QLQ-BN20; and cognitive dysfunction, with greater future uncertainty, visual deficits, motor dysfunction, communication deficits, headaches, drowsiness, and weakness of legs symptoms on the QLQ-BN20, suggesting an adequate clinical validity of the QLQ-BN20. A score for motor dysfunction on the QLQ-BN20 correlated with a score for motor dysfunction on the QLQ-C30 and SF-36 scales; a score for headache on the QLQ-BN20, with a score for pain on the QLQ-C30 and SF-36 scales; and a score for drowsiness symptoms on the QLQ-BN20, with a score for fatigue on the QLQ-C30. Conclusions. The Lithuanian version of the EORTC-QLQ-BN20 scale has acceptable psychometric properties and can be reliably used for the assessment of HRQoL in brain tumor patients.
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug-Induced Severe Hyponatremia
Authors: Demir Mehmet , Horoz Mehmet , Ulas Turgay , Eren Mehmet , Ercan Zafer
Published: April 2018

Hyponatremia (serum sodium level, <135 mmol/L) occasionally may develop in the course of treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which are usually used in daily clinical practice. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs diminish the normal inhibitory effect of prostaglandins on the activity of antidiuretic hormone and can therefore reduce free water excretion, leading to water retention and induction or exacerbation of hyponatremia. In this report, we present a case of hyponatremia in a 78-year-old man who had received meloxicam, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug.
Effect of Visual Feedback Information on Isometric Contraction of Forearm Flexor Muscles in Men and Women After Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Darbutas Tomas , Juodžbalienė Vilma , Skurvydas Albertas , Krutulytė Gražina , Rimdeikienė Inesa , Brazaitis Marius
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of visual feedback information (VFI) on the isometric contraction of the forearm flexor muscles in men and women after an ischemic stroke when doing a physical load at 20% of strength. Material and Methods. The study included healthy subjects (n=20) and subjects after ischemic stroke (n=20). The study was conducted in Lithuanian Sports University. The measurements of maximum voluntary strength (MVS) and accurate isometric contraction were performed using an isokinetic dynamometer Biodex System Pro 3. Results. The absolute errors of isometric contraction of the right arm muscles at 20% of MVS were similar in all the groups during the attempt with visual feedback information. The smallest absolute errors of the healthy subjects were 1.42±0.35 Nm when the task was performed with visual feedback and the greatest absolute errors were 4.69±0.95 Nm (P<0.01) while performing the task without visual feedback. Meanwhile, the smallest and greatest absolute errors of the subjects after ischemic stroke were 1.32±0.45 Nm and 5.05±0.63 Nm, respectively, while performing the task without visual feedback (P<0.01). Conclusions. Maximum voluntary strength was greater in all the groups of men. The absolute errors of isometric contractions of the right and left arm muscles tended to increase in both the men and the women when there was no visual feedback information. The women and the men after an ischemic stroke produced greater absolute errors when performing the task with the right and left arm without visual feedback information than the healthy subjects.
Mildronate and its Neuroregulatory Mechanisms: Targeting the Mitochondria, Neuroinflammation, and Protein Expression
Authors: Klusa Vija , Beitnere Ulrika , Pupure Jolanta , Isajevs Sergejs , Rumaks Juris , Svirskis Simons , Dzirkale Zane , Kalvinsh Ivars
Published: April 2018

This review for the first time summarizes the data obtained in the neuropharmacological studies of mildronate, a drug previously known as a cardioprotective agent. In different animal models of neurotoxicity and neurodegenerative diseases, we demonstrated its neuroprotecting activity. By the use of immunohistochemical methods and Western blot analysis, as well as some selected behavioral tests, the new mechanisms of mildronate have been demonstrated: a regulatory effect on mitochondrial processes and on the expression of nerve cell proteins, which are involved in cell survival, functioning, and inflammation processes. Particular attention is paid to the capability of mildronate to stimulate learning and memory and to the expression of neuronal proteins involved in synaptic plasticity and adult neurogenesis. These properties can be useful in neurological practice to protect and treat neurological disorders, particularly those associated with neurodegeneration and a decline in cognitive functions.