bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migracija i integracija u njemačkim gradovima
Authors: Kersting Norbert
Published: July 2018

Njemačka sebe nikada nije smatrala državom useljenika iako se tamo nakon Drugoga svjetskog rata naselio veći broj izbjeglica, dok je 60-ih godina prošloga stoljeća njemačka industrija privukla veliku skupinu useljenika iz zemalja južne Europe (Španjolske, Italije, Grčke i Turske). Obje su se ove kategorije useljenika gotovo u potpunosti integrirale u njemačko društvo. Tijekom 90-ih godina 20. stoljeća i ratova na području Balkana opet je velik broj izbjeglica pristigao u Njemačku, međutim većina se poslije rata vratila kući. Nova je migracijska politika zaživjela 2015. godine. Kada su se bježeći pred ratom u Siriji izbjeglice nastojale preko „balkanske rute“ domoći središnje Europe, djelomično
ih je privukla simbolična no kratkotrajna njemačka politika „raširenih ruku“. Otprilike 1,2 milijuna ljudi podnijelo je zahtjev za azilom u Njemačkoj 2015. i 2016. godine. Nakon zaokreta njemačke politike te uvođenja nove politike u Turskoj i državama istočne Europe te su brojke 2017. godine znatno smanjene. U radu se pokušava odgovoriti na pitanje tko zastupa te izbjeglice i druge migrante. S druge strane, neke skupine migrantskog podrijetla kao što su primjerice građani Europske unije imaju sva izborna prava na lokalnim i EU izborima. U većim gradovima još od 90-ih godina prošlog stoljeća većinu drugih stranaca
zastupaju savjetodavni odbori građana. Te se savjetodavne odbore također smatra zagovornicima onih izbjeglica bez dugoročnih izgleda da postanu njemački državljani. Samo tri pokrajine (Länder) posjeduju odgovarajući zakonski okvir unutar kojeg savjetodavni odbori mogu djelovati. Savjetodavne odbore prihvaćaju i građani i vijećnici u svih 14 analiziranih reprezentativnih gradova, no u istočnom je dijelu Njemačke prihvaćanje slabije izraženo nego u zapadnom dijelu zemlje.
Merkle-Damgård Construction Method and Alternatives
Authors: Tiwari Harshvardhan
Published: July 2018

Cryptographic hash function is an important cryptographic tool in the field of information security. Design of most widely used hash functions such as MD5 and SHA-1 is based on the iterations of compression function by Merkle-Damgård construction method with constant initialization vector. Merkle-Damgård construction showed that the security of hash function depends on the security of the compression function. Several attacks on Merkle-Damgård construction based hash functions motivated researchers to propose different cryptographic constructions to enhance the security of hash functions against the differential and generic attacks. Cryptographic community had been looking for replacements for these weak hash functions and they have proposed new hash functions based on different variants of Merkle-Damgård construction. As a result of an open competition NIST announced Keccak as a SHA-3 standard. This paper provides a review of cryptographic hash function, its security requirements and different design methods of compression function.
Microstructures and tensile properties of CuZrAlNb metallic glass composites under different cooling rates
Authors: Liang Weizhong , Chen Yongsheng , Ning Zhiliang , Kang Zhijie , Sun Haichao
Published: July 2018

Cu48-xZr48Al4Nbx (x = 1 or 5 at.%) metallic glass composite rods with diameters of 4 mm, 3 mm and 2 mm were prepared by using copper mold drop-casting. Their microstructures and tensile properties under different cooling rates were investigated. The microstructure and tensile properties of samples were affected by the crystalline phase content. With the increase in Nb content or the decrease of cooling rates, the microstructures of samples crystallized more significantly and the tensile fracture strength reduced. The fracture mode changed from shear fracture to brittle fracture, shear bands on the side surface decreased and vein stripes on the fracture surface were transformed into plastic pit structures as Nb content increased from 1 to 5%. The results may be helpful for the investigation of metallic glass composite mechanical behavior.
Combustion synthesis and formation mechanism of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Quan Feng , Mao Aiqin , Ding Mengling , Ran Songlin , Wang Jun , Yang Guangcheng , Yan Yong
Published: July 2018

A facile and efficient combustion synthesis method is proposed to synthesize single-crystal silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by using high chemical activity nano-aluminum powder as a reducing agent and silver oxide as an oxidant. The synthesized samples were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy analysis. The results indicate that the as-prepared spherical AgNPs are of a single-crystal structure with an average size of about 40 nm. Moreover, the formation mechanism of AgNPs was also investigated by closed bomb test and high-speed video recording. It is observed that a large amount of energy which is released instantaneously makes the reaction occur at a rapid speed, so that the nucleation rate of AgNPs is greater than the growth rate. This study opens up a promising route for high-yield and high-quality AgNPs, as well as various other metal nanoparticles.
Pore formation mechanism of porous Ni–Cr–Al alloys prepared by elemental powder reactive synthesis
Authors: Xiao Yifeng , Xu Yang , Wu Liang , Xu Yanfei , Qian Jinwen , Guo Xiaohua , Li Xiaona , He Yuehui
Published: July 2018

Porous Ni–Cr–Al alloy samples were fabricated by pressureless sintering of Ni, Cr, and Al elemental powders. The phase transformation, swelling behavior, pore structure parameters, microstructure, and pore formation mechanisms of porous Ni–Cr–Al alloys were systematically investigated. Results show that obvious swelling behavior occurs during sintering. The open porosity of the Ni–Cr–Al alloy increases as the sintering temperature increases below 920°C, followed by a relatively declining value for phase transformation beyond 920°C. The porous Ni–Cr–Al alloy samples exhibit an open porosity of 35.02% when sintered at 1200°C for 3 h. The main pore formation mechanisms are the Kirkendall effect and the development of interparticle pores.
ANÁLISE DE CUSTOS DA CADEIA DE VALOR: ESTUDO MULTICASO EM MICROCERVEJARIAS
Authors: Olesiak Estevo Mateus , Marquesini Vanessa Heckler , Bonzanini Osmar Antonio , Souza Marcos Antonio
Published: July 2018

A análise da cadeia de valor no âmbito da gestão estratégica de custos é entendida como uma prática que contribui para viabilizar vantagens competitivas. Diante de tal realidade o objetivo deste estudo é investigar a aderência da gestão de microcervejarias ao que prescreve a literatura em relação as práticas de análise de custos da cadeia de valor. Trata-se de um estudo multicaso em três microcervejarias, de natureza descritiva e qualitativa, cujos dados foram coletados no quarto trimestre de 2016 por meio de entrevista com gestores das empresas, análise documental e observações in loco. Os principais achados evidenciam que há uma proximidade entre o que prescreve a literatura e as práticas empresariais, ao ponto que são evidentes práticas que propiciam redução de custos e vantagem competitiva, nas quais se destacam parcerias com demais elos da cadeia de valor, com concorrentes e análise para decisão da forma de participação na cadeia de valor.
IDENTIFICAÇÃO E REDUÇÃO DE DESPERDÍCIOS NO PROCESSO DE FABRICAÇÃO DA PLATAFORMA DE CORTE DA COLHEITADEIRA–DESPERTI
Authors: Beutler Diego Eduardo , Casarin Vanusa Andrea , Frazin Rozelaine de Fatima , Santos Antônio Vanderlei dos , Zan Fátima Regina
Published: July 2018

O propósito de desenvolver um recurso tecnológico para identificação de desperdícios em uma fábrica de produtos agrícolas instalada no Rio Grande do Sul teve como finalidade facilitar a identificação dos desperdícios ocorridos no processo produtivo. No desenvolvimento do conceito da ferramenta utilizou-se uma análise de conteúdo alicerçada nos conceitos de manufatura enxuta para aumento de eficiência e produtividade. O trabalho é um estudo de caso, pois representa uma investigação empírica e compreende um método abrangente, com a lógica do planejamento, da coleta e da análise de dados. A pesquisa caracteriza-se como exploratória, pois, envolve levantamento bibliográfico e entrevistas. Trata-se também de uma pesquisa descritiva. Com a utilização do recurso tecnológico desenvolvido, conseguiu-se mensurar e quantificar os resultados obtidos da observação direta do processo, revelando que o tempo de agregação de valor é zero, pois a transformação do produto no caso observado não acontece. Após a implementação das ações, o resultado foi melhorado tendo a eliminação do desperdício em 100% e diminuindo as atividades necessárias para 4 segundos. Com isso, conclui-se que o recurso tecnológico desenvolvido pode ajudar na identificação e redução dos desperdícios nos processos produtivos, trazendo resultados financeiros significativos para as empresas.
Pengaruh Jarak Anoda-Katoda dan Durasi Pelapisan Terhadap Laju Korosi pada Hasil Electroplating Hard Chrome
Authors: Alphanoda Abid Fahreza
Published: July 2018

Electroplating hard chrome merupakan pelapisan permukaan logam yang biasa digunakan untuk industri dengan tujuan meningkatkan umur pakai (lifetime). Jarak anoda-katoda dan durasi pelapisan adalah salah satu faktor yang menentukan kualitas hasil electroplating hard chrome, sedangkan pengujian laju korosi merupakan faktor koreksi terhadap hasil electroplating untuk didapatkan umur pakai. Penelitian ini dilakukan menggunakan metode penelitian eksperimen sejati dengan melibatkan satu variabel bebas yaitu jarak anoda-katoda dengan variasi yang digunakan adalah 9 cm, 12 cm, 15 cm, dan 18 cm, sedangkan variabel terikat yang diamati yaitu uji laju korosi hasil electroplating hard chrome. Variabel terkontrol pada penelitian ini adalah durasi pelapisan selama 45 menit dan 60 menit. Komposisi larutan elektrolit yang digunakan yaitu chromic acid 300 gr/L dan asam sulfat 3 gr/L, dengan rapat arus 45 A/dm2 dan temperatur elektrolit 50oC. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa jarak anoda-katoda dan durasi pelapisan electroplating hard chrome pada baja ST-37 berpengaruh secara nyata terhadap hasil uji laju korosi atau Corrosion Penetration Rate (CPR).Kata kunci: electroplating hard chrome, anoda-katoda, durasi pelapisan, laju korosi
Analisis Manfaat Penerapan Sistem Informasi Ujian Online: Studi Kasus SMK Pasim Plus
Authors: Andika Erick , Djajasukma Djajasukma , Heryanto Herry
Published: July 2018

Evaluasi dilakukan untuk mengukur proses pembelajaran yang telah dilaksanakan. Pelaksanaan ujian, pemeriksaan hasil ujian, serta pengumuman nilai ujian pada SMK Pasim Plus telah menggunakan sistem informasi ujian online. Penelitian dilakukan kepada 466 populasi siswa dengan pengambilan jumlah sampel berdasarkan rumus Slovin yaitu sebanyak 215 siswa. Model penelitian yang digunakan adalah D&M IS Success Model untuk mengukur kesuksesan sistem informasi, serta model UTAUT (Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology) untuk mengukur niat dan penggunaan sistem informasi. Teknik pengumpulan data dilakukan menggunakan observasi dan kuesioner tertutup menggunakan skala Likert dimana kuesioner tersebut telah diuji validitas dan realibilitas. Data diolah dengan teknik SEM (Structural Equation Modelling) menggunakan SPSS 22 dan AMOS 22. Variabel yang diolah dalam penelitian ini antara lain Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Sosial Influence, Facilitating Conditions, Behavioral Intention, User Satisfaction, dan Net Benefits. Pengujian dilakukan menggunakan teknik Kolmogrov-Smirnov Goodness of Fit Test, pengujian normalitas data, pengujian validasi konstruk, hingga pengujian keseluruhan model. Hasil penelitian yang diperoleh diuraikan dan dibahas pada makalah ini.Kata kunci: UTAUT, D&M, SEM, kesuksesan, penerimaan
Implementasi JSON Web Service pada Aplikasi Digital Library Politeknik Sukabumi
Authors: Qibtiyah Ulfa Mariathul , Rahayu Samirah
Published: July 2018

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis dan merancang sebuah aplikasi yang dapat membantu pengelolaan data perpustakaan menjadi lebih mudah dan akurat. Analisis terhadap perancangan aplikasi digital library ini meliputi evaluasi terhadap sistem yang diusulkan, database yang diusulkan, dan rencana penerapan aplikasi. Berdasarkan hasil analisis yang dilakukan, dapat disimpulkan bahwa sistem perpustakaan secara manual lebih menghabiskan waktu lama ketika terjadi pengolahan data dan kurangnya tingkat keamanan data. Oleh karena itu, solusi pemecahan dari masalah tersebut adalah dengan membangun aplikasi perpustakaan berbasis web dan Android untuk membuat sistem berjalan lebih baik lagi. Dengan adanya aplikasi ini diharapkan dapat menjadi pengganti yang lebih baik dari sistem yang sebelumnya. Aplikasi ini dirancang dengan menggunakan database MySQL, PHP, HTML, JavaScript dan Ajax, serta menggunakan konsep framework dengan CodeIgniter.Kata kunci: CodeIgniter, framework, HTML, JavaScript, MySQL, perpustakaan, PHP
Sistem Sensor Estimasi Tingkat Kematangan Buah Stroberi Berdasarkan Kecerahan Warna Merah
Authors: Hidayat Darmawan , Wibawa Bambang Mukti , Setianto Setianto , Syafei Nendi Suhendi , Suanda Arif Choerudin
Published: July 2018

Seleksi tingkat kematangan pada buah stroberi merupakan salah satu upaya untuk meningkatkan kualitasnya. Tingkat kematangan dalam panen merupakan faktor paling penting yang menentukan kualitas buah. Stroberi yang telah matang optimal memiliki banyak kandungan nutrisi. Sensor tingkat kematangan stroberi telah dibuat berdasarkan kecerahan warna merah pada permukaan kulit stroberi. Sistem sensor dirancang dengan menggunakan Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) sebagai sensor intensitas cahaya dan Light Emitting Diode (LED) sebagai sumber cahaya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengukur tingkat kematangan stroberi dengan menggunakan tiga derajat warna merah, yaitu light-red, fresh-red dan black-red untuk membedakan tingkat kematangan buah stroberi. Nilai tingkat kematangan untuk light-red 671,2, fresh-red 709,05 dan black-red 777,5. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa sensor dapat mendeteksi tingkat kematangan stroberi dengan presisi 93,3%. Dengan demikian, sensor tingkat kematangan stroberi dapat direalisasikan.Kata kunci: stroberi, tingkat kematangan, light-red, fresh-red, black-red
Editorial
Authors: Romaniello Matthew P.
Published: July 2018

As Sibirica moves forward, I hope to highlight more connections
between past and present. As an interdisciplinary journal regularly featuring
the work of historians and social scientists, Sibirica is positioned
to feature the works of scholars that bridge the disciplinary “divide”
and publish research that addresses fundamental issues that influence
all of our work. I hope to encourage our colleagues to think topically
and work with an awareness of how other disciplines can contribute to
our collective project of better understanding “Siberia” (writ large) as a
unique space with a long history and an important future.
Native Marriage “Soviet” and “Russian” Style
Authors: Skvirskaja Vera
Published: July 2018

Based on fieldwork in Nenets tundra encampments and multiethnic villages on the northern Yamal Peninsula, this article discusses people’s experiences and expectations of married life. Two types of marriage—”arranged” and “love marriage”—are used to illustrate how marriage brings to the fore the political economy of desire and local reflections on the good society. The article suggests that while Soviet ideology and post-Soviet neotraditionalist discourses have endorsed customary attitudes toward arranged Nenets marriage, love marriage including marriage with Russians often leads to a situation in which “love” or “alien romance” is tempered by “reason” rather than relying on a “modern” nuclear family ideal. It argues that tundra marriage, including arranged marriage, is commonly underwritten by subjectively understood chances of leading a good family life.
Making Sense of the Remote Areas
Authors: Mankova Petia
Published: July 2018

Narratives of globalization, conceived of as large-scale political,
economic, and cultural processes flowing from metropolitan
centers, often emphasize the loss of tradition and cultural originality
in the remote and wild peripheries. All three television programs
filmed in the past 10 years in Krasnoshchel’e, a remote Arctic village
in Northwest Russia where I did anthropological fieldwork, are
marked by such sentimental pessimism. Here, I juxtapose them with
several local stories, which do not resonate with the melancholic and
nostalgic notes of the media. The stories show how new inventions
are welcomed and incorporated with laughter and astonishment into
everyday life. The sentimental dissonance between mediascape and
local imagination brings valuable insights about how globalization
is accommodated on different scales and in different geographic
settings.
“Save the Men!”
Authors: Starks Tricia
Published: July 2018

In 1968, the Soviet economist and demographer Boris
Urlanis
started a national conversation in the Soviet Union with his
article “Beregite muzhchin!” or “Save the Men!” in the popular journal
Literaturnaia gazeta. The essay, translated here, points out the increasingly
troubling imbalance in male and female health as men
were dying, on average, eight years earlier than women. Urlanis calls
for attention to accidents and lifestyle problems (smoking and drinking,
as featured in propaganda posters) as well as a nationwide set of
health institutions centered on male health. The essay precipitated
a flood of essays, letters, commentaries, cartoons, and even a movie
under the same title.
Surface Homogeneity of Injection Molded Parts
Authors: Zsíros László , Kovács József Gábor
Published: July 2018

In this paper we are presenting a novel method for color inhomogeneity evaluation. We proved that this method has a higher than 95 % linear correlation coefficient if results are correlated with human visual evaluations.We applied this evaluation method to analyze the homogenization in the injection molding process, therefore we measured the homogenization properties of various solid phase masterbatches on injection molded parts. We tested the effects of the processing parameters of injection molding and analyzed various dynamic and static mixers as well. We have also measured the influence of the mold surface texture on the sensation of inhomogeneities on the part surface.We have carried out our tests on an injection grade ABS material using various masterbatches. The method was based on the digitization of the molded flat specimens. The images of these specimens were evaluated with an own developed formula using the CIELAB color space resulting high correlation with human visual inspections.
Need of Combining Proton Pump Inhibitors with Prokinetics: A Prospective Observational Survey Conducted in India
Authors: Faruqui Arif Ahmed
Published: July 2018

Background: Gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD), a highly prevalent disorder has adverse impact on quality of life. An estimated 40% of GERD patients have incomplete response to standard PPI therapy. For these PPI refractory patients, doubling the PPI dose or switching to another PPI are pursued by the treating physicians that might not be optimal. Therefore, an appropriate second line treatment should focus on addition of gastro-prokinetic drugs that stimulates gastric motility.Materials & Methods: This was a prospective observational study conducted in 118 patients suffering from symptoms suggestive of GERD, at four centers in Indian National Capital region to assess the overlap between GERD and delayed gastric emptying and to predict the need for combination therapy of PPI with pro-kinetic drug using Frequency Scale for the Symptoms of GERD (FSSG) score.Results: The mean total FSSG score was 16.37 ± 7.50. From 118 patients, 98 (83.05%) met the criteria for GERD with FSSG total score more than eight. The mean reflux score was 7.43 ± 4.08, while the mean dysmotility score was 8.94 ± 4.83. GERD patients in this study have a high mean FSSG score, whereas dysmotility symptoms proved to be more dominant than acid reflux.Conclusion: Based on the findings of this study, combination therapy of PPI with prokinetics is recommended in subsets of patients with high FSSG scoreJ MEDICINE JUL 2018; 19 (2) : 74-78
Barriers to Utilization of Sexual Health Services among Young People in District Dang Nepal: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Gautam Prayas , Soomro Munawar Hussain , Sapkota Suprich , Gautam Koshish Raj , Kasaju Aastha
Published: July 2018

Background: Sexual behavior of young people is becoming one of the important social and major publichealth concerns in recent years. Despite the large population of young people, their needs receive limited programmatic and policy attention. Youth-friendly sexual and reproductive health services are lacking despite the existence of national guidelines that call for youth-friendly services. The aim of this study was to determine the barriers to utilization of sexual health services among young people of Badi community of Nepal.Materials & Methods: This qualitative study included the young people, 15-24 years of age among the Badi community in district Dang Nepal. We conducted 22 in-depth interviews by using the interview guideline among the young people. Written and verbal informed consent was taken from each research participants before data collection.Results: Fourteen of the participants were males and eight were females. Participants were divided into two age groups: 15-19 and 20-24 and there were eight and fourteen participants from each group respectively. Rural participants were not satisfied with the services provided to them. We observed that discrimination, beliefs of society and feeling of shame towards family norms, lack of information about existing services, poor gender friendly services,lack of privacy and confidentiality and poor availability of the services pose the barriers to utilization of the sexual health services.Conclusions: Communities should be provided with educational programs on sexual health through community based organization and the establishment of youth friendly service centers with easy access to communities in urban as well as in rural areas would encourage young people to use sexual health services more frequently.J MEDICINE JUL 2018; 19 (2) : 79-83
Cholesteryl Ester Storage Disease – A Rare Presentation
Authors: Karmaker Madhabi , Akter Sarmin , Kabir Ahmedul , Azad Khan Abul Kalam , Mollah Abid Hossain
Published: July 2018

Cholesteryl Ester Storage Disease (CESD) is a rare genetic disease characterized by accumulation of cholesteryl esters and triglycerides in many tissues due to deficiency of Lysosomal Acid Lipase (LAL/ LIPA) enzyme, which is essential for hydrolysis of triglycerides and cholesterol esters in lysosomes.1 The diagnosis is indicated by abnormal lipid profile, deposition of cholesterol crystals in internal organs and reduced acid lipase activity in leukocytes. Here we report a 16 year-old girl who presented with repeated episodes of hepatic encephalopathy with onset of first symptom at 9 years of age with history of consanguinity of marriage between parents. On examination, we found hepatosplenomegaly. Laboratory examination showed abnormal lipid profile and reduced activity of acid lipase enzyme in leukocytes. After exclusion of other possible pathological conditions and on the basis of lab criteria, we diagnose the case as Cholesteryl Ester Storage Disease (CESD).J MEDICINE JUL 2018; 19 (2) : 130-132
Cobalt and Nitrogen Co-Doped Graphene-Carbon Nanotube Aerogel as an Efficient Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Oxygen Reduction and Evolution Reactions
Authors: Qiao Xiaochang , Jin Jutao , Fan Hongbo , Cui Lifeng , Ji Shan , Li Yingwei , Liao Shijun
Published: July 2018

In this study, a low-cost and environmentally friendly method is developed to synthesize cobalt and nitrogen co-doped graphene-carbon nanotube aerogel (Co-N-GCA) as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). The as-prepared Co-N-GCA has a hierarchical meso- and macroporous structure with a high N doping level (8.92 at. %) and a large specific surface area (456 m2 g−1). In an alkaline medium, the catalyst exhibits superior ORR electrocatalytic activity with an onset potential 15 mV more positive than Pt/C, and its diffusion-limiting current density is 29% higher than that of commercial Pt/C. The obtained Co-N-GCA is also highly active toward the OER, with a small overpotential of 408 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Its overall oxygen electrode activity parameter (ΔE) is 0.821 V, which is comparable to most of the best nonprecious-metal catalysts reported previously. Furthermore, Co-N-GCA demonstrates superior durability in both the ORR and the OER, making it a promising noble-metal-free bifunctional catalyst in practical applications for energy conversion and storage.
TRPV1-Like Immunoreactivity in the Human Locus K, a Distinct Subregion of the Cuneate Nucleus
Authors: Del Fiacco Marina , Serra Maria Pina , Boi Marianna , Poddighe Laura , Demontis Roberto , Carai Antonio , Quartu Marina
Published: July 2018

The presence of transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1 receptor (TRPV1)-like immunoreactivity (LI), in the form of nerve fibres and terminals, is shown in a set of discrete gray matter subregions placed in the territory of the human cuneate nucleus. We showed previously that those subregions share neurochemical and structural features with the protopathic nuclei and, after the ancient name of our town, collectively call them Locus Karalis, and briefly Locus K. TRPV1-LI in the Locus K is codistributed, though not perfectly overlapped, with that of the neuropeptides calcitonin gene-related peptide and substance P, the topography of the elements immunoreactive to the three markers, in relation to each other, reflecting that previously described in the caudal spinal trigeminal nucleus. Myelin stainings show that myelinated fibres, abundant in the cuneate, gracile and trigeminal magnocellular nuclei, are scarce in the Locus K as in the trigeminal substantia gelatinosa. Morphometric analysis shows that cell size and density of Locus K neurons are consistent with those of the trigeminal substantia gelatinosa and significantly different from those of the magnocellular trigeminal, solitary and dorsal column nuclei. We propose that Locus K is a special component of the human dorsal column nuclei. Its functional role remains to be determined, but TRPV1 appears to play a part in it.
Constitutive Modelling and Hot Workability Analysis by Microstructure Examination of GH4169 Alloy
Authors: Chen Rongchuang , Zheng Zhizhen , Li Jianjun , Feng Fei
Published: July 2018

The relationships between hot deformation parameters and flow behaviour have attracted many researchers’ attention for the past few decades, whilst precise constitutive modelling of GH4169 remained a problem, which seriously affected the process and microstructure control of alloys. In this work, a modified Arrhenius type model was introduced to describe the flow stresses of various compression conditions. The model showed high precision in flow stress prediction. In order to facilitate workability evaluation for engineering applications, the hot processing maps were established at the strain of 0.4~0.6. The processing maps revealed an instability domain at 900~950 °C and 0.1~1 s−1, a high dissipation efficiency domain at 1060~1100 °C and 0.001~0.01 s−1, and a stable deformation domain for the rest of processing parameters. Microstructures of each domain were observed via optical microscope (OM) and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). The intriguing finding was that the microstructures morphology agreed well with the descriptions in “discontinuous mechanism”, and incompletely recrystallized microstructures were found in the instability domain. Fully recrystallized microstructures were found in the stable deformation domain, and grain coarsen in the high dissipation efficiency domain. Optimal hot working conditions were suggested based on the microstructure analysis. This investigation contributed to a comprehensive understanding of the workability of GH4169.
Whole-Body MRI with Diffusion-Weighted Imaging in Bone Metastases: A Narrative Review
Authors: Stecco Alessandro , Trisoglio Alessandra , Soligo Eleonora , Berardo Sara , Sukhovei Lidiia , Carriero Alessandro
Published: July 2018

Whole body magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with diffusion-weighted imaging (WB-MRI-DWI) is currently emerging as a diagnostic technique in the evaluation of bone metastases from breast, prostate, lung, thyroid, and melanoma tumors. The most relevant articles regarding the detection of solid tumor bone metastases with MRI have been reviewed and cited. The imaging methods currently used in the detection of bone metastases are bone scintigraphy, computed tomography (CT), and positron emission tomography (PET/CT) with 2-deoxy-2-[fluorine-18] fluoro-d-glucose (18F-FDG PET/CT). WB-MRI-DWI allows qualitative and quantitative evaluation of focal lesions through signal intensity evaluation on DWI images and the reconstruction of the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map. In prostate and breast cancer, WB-MRI-DWI is useful in assessing the response of bone lesions to therapy and to detecting early non-responders, while in lung cancer the method shows a similar sensitivity to 18F-FDG PET/CT in the detection of bone metastases. In bone metastases of thyroid tumors and melanoma, the WB-MRI-DWI shows a higher sensitivity when compared to 18F-FDG PET/CT. With a standardization of the WB-MRI-DWI protocol, this method seems to play an important role in the diagnosis of bone solid tumor metastases.
Cooperation and Strategic Complementarity: An Experiment with Two Voluntary Contribution Mechanism Games with Interior Equilibria
Authors: Lappalainen Olli
Published: July 2018

In public goods game experiments, designs implementing non-linearities in the production are less common than the standard linear setting, especially so under the assumption that the private goods production and public goods aggregation function are both non-linear. We study a voluntary contribution game (VCM) in which returns from the private project have diminishing marginal benefits and the contributions to the joint project exhibit pairwise strategic complementarities. As a control, we use a public goods game with an identical private production technology, but with the standard linear public goods aggregation. In addition to the aggregation technology, we manipulate the group size variable: In both treatments, the subjects will first play a VCM game in groups of five for 20 rounds, after which the group size is reduced to two, and the game is played for another 20 rounds. A significant over-contribution is observed in both settings when the group size is five. The rate of over-contribution is much higher under the complementary technology, but as predicted by theory, the contributions drop drastically when the group size is reduced from n = 5 to n = 2 within this treatment. Our experiment also provides empirical evidence that the so-called group size effect is present in both treatments, but it is much weaker under the standard aggregation technology.
Computation of Sparse and Dense Equilibrium Strategies of Evolutionary Games
Authors: Hao Yiping , Wu Zhijun
Published: July 2018

The evolution of social or biological species can be modeled as an evolutionary game with the equilibrium strategies of the game as prediction for the ultimate distributions of species in population, when some species may survive with positive proportions, while others become extinct. We say a strategy is dense if it contains a large and diverse number of positive species, and is sparse if it has only a few dominant ones. Sparse equilibrium strategies can be found relatively easily, while dense ones are more computationally costly. Here we show that by formulating a “complementary” problem for the computation of equilibrium strategies, we are able to reduce the cost for computing dense equilibrium strategies much more efficiently. We describe the primary and complementary algorithms for computing dense as well as sparse equilibrium strategies, and present test results on randomly generated games as well as a more biologically related one. In particular, we demonstrate that the complementary algorithm is about an order of magnitude faster than the primary algorithm to obtain the dense equilibrium strategies for all our test cases.
Using a Chemical Genetic Screen to Enhance Our Understanding of the Antibacterial Properties of Silver
Authors: Gugala Natalie , Lemire Joe , Chatfield-Reed Kate , Yan Ying , Chua Gordon , Turner Raymond J.
Published: July 2018

It is essential to understand the mechanisms by which a toxicant is capable of poisoning the bacterial cell. The mechanism of action of many biocides and toxins, including numerous ubiquitous compounds, is not fully understood. For example, despite the widespread clinical and commercial use of silver (Ag), the mechanisms describing how this metal poisons bacterial cells remains incomplete. To advance our understanding surrounding the antimicrobial action of Ag, we performed a chemical genetic screen of a mutant library of Escherichia coli—the Keio collection, in order to identify Ag sensitive or resistant deletion strains. Indeed, our findings corroborate many previously established mechanisms that describe the antibacterial effects of Ag, such as the disruption of iron-sulfur clusters containing proteins and certain cellular redox enzymes. However, the data presented here demonstrates that the activity of Ag within the bacterial cell is more extensive, encompassing genes involved in cell wall maintenance, quinone metabolism and sulfur assimilation. Altogether, this study provides further insight into the antimicrobial mechanism of Ag and the physiological adaption of E. coli to this metal.
Development of a General Protocol to Enhance the Hydrological Analysis Techniques for Urban Catchments in Ireland
Authors: Longo Elisa , Rooney John Paul
Published: July 2018

The hydrological analysis of urban catchments is a critical consideration for all major civil engineering projects. The purpose of this article is to develop a general protocol to enhance the established techniques for estimating runoff from Irish urban catchments. The chosen case study is the Rye Water catchment, which is covering two significant urban centres, Maynooth and Leixlip. The findings were compared with the flow data available on the Office of Public Works (OPW) website, to verify the reliability of the proposed approach. The study showed that the methodology described in this paper is applicable to Irish catchments and the protocol, with minor improvements can be adopted in Ireland to support designers in their approach to extreme rainfall events.
Frailty Screening and Case-Finding for Complex Chronic Conditions in Older Adults in Primary Care
Authors: Lee Linda , Patel Tejal , Hillier Loretta M. , Locklin Jason , Milligan James , Pefanis John , Costa Andrew , Lee Joseph , Slonim Karen , Giangregorio Lora , Hunter Susan , Keller Heather , Boscart Veronique
Published: July 2018

With the aging population, escalating demand for seniors’ care and limited specialist resources, new care delivery models are needed to improve capacity for primary health care for older adults. This paper describes the “C5-75” (Case-finding for Complex Chronic Conditions in Seniors 75+) program, an innovative care model aimed at identifying frailty and commonly associated geriatric conditions among older adults within a Canadian family practice setting and targeting interventions for identified conditions using a feasible, systematic, evidence-informed multi-disciplinary approach. We screen annually for frailty using gait speed and handgrip strength, screen for previously undiagnosed comorbid conditions, and offer frail older adults multi-faceted interventions that identify and address unrecognized medical and psychosocial needs. To date, we have assessed 965 older adults through this program; 14% were identified as frail based on gait speed alone, and 5% identified as frail based on gait speed with grip strength. The C5-75 program aims to re-conceptualize care from reactive interventions post-diagnosis for single disease states to a more proactive approach aimed at identifying older adults who are at highest risk of poor health outcomes, case-finding for unrecognized co-existing conditions, and targeting interventions to maintain health and well-being and potentially reduce vulnerability and health destabilization.
Folklore of the Arab World1
Authors: El-Shamy Hasan
Published: July 2018

Four major stages in the development of interest in folklore in the Arab World may be designated. A neglected (or suppressed) facet of Arab life is the centrality of the khâl. An examination of the impact this familial character has on the social structure of the group regardless of ethnicity and religion is absent. (1) Is the early Islamic period and how religious dogma regarded negatively cultural expressions of polytheism? (2) The age of the spread of Islam and the Arabic language. Religious narratives (mostly “exempla”) dominated the Arab Islamic scene. (3) Is the short-llived era of the emergence of an ephemeral trend towards objectivity and of growth of interest in indigenous culture? In this regard the Basrite Al-Jâẖiẕ (9th C. A.D.) is to be acknowledged as the first folklorist; he treated genuine folklore occurrences and sought to verify their veracity through fieldwork. (4) This stage came in the 1950s when literary scholars became aware of "folklore" as an academic discipline in the West; the attention westerners paid the Arabian Nights triggered interest in that work among some Arab scholars. Along with that European interest, ethnocentric hypotheses about lack of creativity among Semitic groups flourished. Regrettably, these wayward views still find supporters today. With political changes and the emergence of populism, folk groups and their culture varieties acquired special importance. Conflict between religious circles and nonreligious intellectuals over the use of terms turâth/ma’thûr (legacy/Tradition), labels previously reserved for religious heritage. This conflict seems to have abated. Currently, especially in the newly independent Arab Gulf states, “folklore” is proudly held to be a depository of a nation’s memory, history, ‘soul’, and character. However, it should be born in mind that while folklore cultivates positive principles, it also harbors destructive values.
A Comparison between Organic and Conventional Olive Farming in Messenia, Greece
Authors: Berg Håkan , Maneas Giorgos , Salguero Engström Amanda
Published: July 2018

Olive farming is one of the most important occupations in Messenia, Greece. The region is considered the largest olive producer in the country and it is recognized as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) for Kalamata olive oil, which is considered extra fine. In response to the declining trend of organic olive farming in Greece, this study assesses to what extent organic olive farming in Messenia provides a financially and environmentally competitive alternative to conventional olive farming. In this study, 39 olive farmers (23 conventional and 16 organic) participated in interviews based on questionnaires. The results showed that organic olive farming is significantly more profitable than conventional farming, primarily because of a higher price for organic olive oil. Despite this, the majority of the conventional farmers perceived a low profit from organic farming as the main constraint to organic olive farming. All farmers agreed that organic olive farming contributed to a better environment, health and quality of olive oil. Organic farmers used fewer synthetic pesticides and fertilizers and applied more environmentally-friendly ground vegetation management techniques than conventional farmers. Overall, organic farming was found to provide a competitive and sustainable alternative to conventional olive farming in Messenia.
An OWA Distance-Based, Single-Valued Neutrosophic Linguistic TOPSIS Approach for Green Supplier Evaluation and Selection in Low-Carbon Supply Chains
Authors: Chen Ji , Zeng Shouzhen , Zhang Chonghui
Published: July 2018

This paper presents a technique based on the ordered weighted averaging (OWA) distance for the single-valued neutrosophic linguistic (SVNL) technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution (TOPSIS). First, the inadequacies of the existing SVNL TOPSIS are analyzed in detail. Second, a SVNL OWA distance (SVNLOWAD) measure is presented, and based on this, a modified TOPSIS, termed the SVNLOWAD-TOPSIS, is developed for multiple attribute decision-making problems with SVNL information. Third, a revised relative coefficient is proposed to rank potential alternatives. Finally, a numerical example concerning green supplier selection in low-carbon supply chains is introduced to demonstrate the effectiveness of the model.
Fundamentals of Natural Representation
Authors: Singh Rajiv
Published: July 2018

Our understanding of the natural universe is far from being comprehensive. The following questions bring to the fore some of the fundamental issues. Is there a reality of information associated with the states of matter based entirely on natural causation? If so, then what constitutes the mechanism of information exchange (processing) at each interaction of physical entities? Let the association of information with a state of matter be referred to as the representation of semantic value expressed by the information. We ask, can the semantic value be quantified, described, and operated upon with symbols, as mathematical symbols describe the material world? In this work, these questions are dealt with substantively to establish the fundamental principles of the mechanisms of representation and propagation of information with every physical interaction. A quantitative method of information processing is derived from the first principles to show how high level structured and abstract semantics may arise via physical interactions alone, without a need for an intelligent interpreter. It is further shown that the natural representation constitutes a basis for the description, and therefore, for comprehension, of all natural phenomena, creating a more holistic view of nature. A brief discussion underscores the natural information processing as the foundation for the genesis of language and mathematics. In addition to the derivation of theoretical basis from established observations, the method of information processing is further demonstrated by a computer simulation.
Glass Ionomer Cements for the Restoration of Non-Carious Cervical Lesions in the Geriatric Patient
Authors: Kampanas Nikolaos-Stefanos , Antoniadou Maria
Published: July 2018

Background: The restoration of non-carious cervical lesions in geriatric patients is a demanding process. Glass ionomer cements can be promising materials for the management of these lesions in older adults. The aim of this literature review is to present the benefits of glass ionomers and how they can be used for the restoration of non-carious cervical lesions of older adults depending on the geriatric patient’s profile. Data sources: All available in vitro and in vivo studies from Google Scholar, PubMed and Scopus search engines corresponding to glass ionomer cements, geriatric dentistry, elderly patients, and non-carious lesions as key words were reviewed. Data synthesis: The advantages of glass ionomer cements, such as good retention and fluoride release, make them suitable for the restoration of non-carious cervical lesions. However, several factors related to the geriatric patient’s profile determine the most suitable material type. Conclusion: In general, the resin modified glass ionomer cements (RMGICs) appear to be preferred, but under certain circumstances the use of the conventional product is more appropriate, despite its poorer mechanical features. Further studies are required for more reliable data analysis and clinical interpretation of the relevant results.
Methadone treatment and its dangers
Authors: Reingardienė Dagmara , Jodžiūnienė Liucija , Lažauskas Robertas
Published: July 2018

Methadone is a long-acting synthetic opioid with high affinity for various opioid receptors, especially for μ-opioid receptors. Methadone has been used as a successful pharmacologic intervention for the treatment of heroin dependence and acute and chronic pain. This treatment is effective for opiate addiction, reducing morbidity and mortality associated with heroin use. However, overdosing with methadone has become a growing phenomenon because of the increased availability of this drug. Patients enrolled in a methadone maintenance treatment program may become physically dependent and may experience methadone withdrawal symptoms. In this review article, there are discussed about pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of methadone, clinical symptoms of its overdose, dosage problems, detection of methadone in biological samples, treatment, and causes of methadone overdose-related deaths.
Investigations on Microstructure and Properties of 16 wt% Cr-3 wt% B-0.6 wt% C-1 wt% Mn-Fe Alloy
Authors: Ding Jiawei , Qiu Xiaoming , Ding Gang , Ruan Ye
Published: July 2018

In this paper, a wear-resistant alloy with the chemical composition of 16 wt% Cr-3 wt% B-0.6 wt% C-1 wt% Mn-Fe, in which M2B was the antifriction skeleton, was prepared in a medium-frequency induction furnace. The microstructure and mechanical properties were experimentally investigated. The results show that the microstructure of the Fe-Cr-B alloy was composed of lath martensite and clavate, reticular, and clustering borides (M2B). After the thermal treatment, the morphology, chemical composition, and volume fraction of the M2B did not change significantly. Because of the reduction in element saturation, secondary borides M23(B,C)6 precipitated from the matrix, which resulted in a decrease in matrix microhardness. As a result, the bulk hardness and abrasive resistance of the alloy accordingly decreased, and the impact toughness inversely increased. According to the results of XRD, electronic probe microanalyzer (EPMA), and TEM, the chemical formula of M2B was FeCr0.89Mn0.14(B,C), which resulted in a body-centered tetragonal (BCT) structure. The chemical formula of the M23(B,C)6 was Fe17.97Cr4.13Mn1.14 (B,C)6, which resulted in a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure.
Geochemistry and Biomarker Analysis of the Bentonites from Esquivias (Toledo, Spain)
Authors: García-Rivas Javier , Suárez Mercedes , Torres Trinidad , Sánchez-Palencia Yolanda , García-Romero Emilia , Ortiz José E.
Published: July 2018

The Tajo Basin is one of the richest in Mg-clays known around the world. Mg-bentonites, kwon as pink clays and green clays, alter in the Intermediate Unit of the Miocene sediments. In this work, a new approach to the genesis of these bentonites is performed by studying for the first time the biomarkers present in these clays in relation to the mineralogy and geochemistry, as well as using discriminatory criteria between green and pink clays. Samples were collected at a quarry of Mg-bentonites, in the proximities of Esquivias (Toledo, Spain). Mineralogical characterization and semi-quantification (X-ray diffraction (XRD)) allowed a well-defined classification according to the mineralogical content of the samples to be established, differentiating four associations. Geochemical analyses are clearly linked to the mineralogy and provide criteria to differentiate the genesis of the materials studied. In this regard, green clays are interpreted as having a more detrital character than pink clays, which present a more authigenic character. Biomarkers (n-alkanes and n-alkanoic acids) were studied, not showing a clear link with the mineralogy as in the case of the geochemistry, but providing interesting information about the origin and degradation of the organic matter. Pink clays have higher contents in biomarkers than green clays, providing a discriminative criterion.