bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Historical archaeology in Magna Graecia: From an American perspective to the Greek colonization in South Italy
Authors: Pollini Airton
Published: June 2018

The historical archaeology approach was forged for the study of the American society after the European conquest of colonial lands in the new continent. Interested in the comparison between material culture and written records, it was opposed to Prehistory and Anthropology with their methods of inquiry. Its main proposal is to use all available data, material and written, independently, without any hierarchy, but in close comparison. As such, this perspective studies the archaeology of individuals “without history”, such as Natives, slaves, women, or even the African diasporas in America, in antagonism to the white male European colonist. Issued from an explicit postcolonial background, this approach may give an important contribution to the study of other ancient societies where interpretations are based on discussions between archaeological remains and texts, such as the Greek colonial communities in Magna Graecia.
Homoeroticism and performances: representations of bodies and human relationships in ancient Rome in paintings of Pompeii
Authors: Sanfelice Pérola de Paula
Published: June 2018

Among the academic subjects, Ancient Studies are those considered the most conservative. However, through interdisciplinarity (particularly through the dialogue with Archaeology), this field of study has managed to reach more critical perspectives, mainly in researches on love and sexuality. This work keeps a dialogue with the research carried out by the classicist Pedro Paulo Funari, who, in turn, has inspired many Brazilian researchers to break up the normative models, questioning old concepts and patriarchal values to give rise to a more libertarian classical antiquity. After presenting a discussion on gender and sexuality in Ancient Rome, a theoretical debate is proposed. Later on, some paintings of erotic relationships, showing diversified practices (particularly emphasizing homoerotic relationships), found in a suburban bath in the Archaeological Site of Pompeii, are presented to evince how differently individuals interpellated norms, to question the definition of pornography and to deal with the relationships between the images and their contexts.
As mulheres romanas e bretãs da Britannia
Authors: Bélo Tais Pagoto
Published: June 2018

A proposta deste artigo é refletir sobre a mulher na sociedade antiga, em especial na Britannia. O trabalho engloba romanas e bretãs que compuseram diferentes costumes, que se entremearam, que ali viveram e que foram, de alguma forma, evidenciadas por vestígios escritos e/ou materiais. Este não era um grupo homogêneo, ou seja, tanto para a população que ali já havia se alojado quanto para a que veio depois, deveria existir uma grande variedade de ideias a respeito do status dessas mulheres e do modo como elas deveriam conduzir suas vidas. Materiais sobre romanas e bretãs já foram encontrados de maneira epigráfica em altares, lápides e sepultamentos. Contudo, este trabalho compara essas primeiras fontes com a obra de Tácito, Anais, uma vez que esse autor parece sempre colocar as mulheres com características pejorativas, muito diferentes das palavras carinhosas e amorosas dadas a elas nesses locais de óbito.
Dois selos de ânforas Dressel 20 provenientes da vila romana de Piddington - Northampton, Reino Unido
Authors: Funari Pedro Paulo Abreu
Published: June 2018

Nota de recebimento de selos anfóricos pela parte de Roy Friendship.
The politics of names: rethinking the significance of naming a discipline from biblical archaeology to the archaeology of the Near East
Authors: Rodrigues Gabriella
Published: June 2018

This paper examines the trends in terminology for the archaeological practice in Israel and Palestine through time. The adoption of terms from 'Biblical Archaeology' to the archaeology of a specific age in a determined geographical area appears to reflect not only the research scope but also its political agenda. After an overview of the most common terminology in the literature, the paper addresses how these names can affect the practice of archaeology in the region of the Near East, in an appeal for its practitioners to the theoretical aspects of the discipline.
The Bible as history para The Bible unearthed – a Arqueologia a serviço da fé e da ciência
Authors: Funari Pedro Paulo Abreu
Published: June 2018

O presente artigo se inicia com uma nota pessoal sobre como a Arqueologia, sob forma de leitura, atraiu o autor para o assunto - assim como aconteceu a muitos outros leitores. De tal forma que a partir desta apresentação é mostrado o ponto de vista utilizado no artigo: uma História Social da disciplina. A Arqueologia Bíblica se encontrava na encruzilhada entre razão e fé, nacionalismo e imperialismo, e o artigo explora a situação nos países ocidentais e, mais tarde, em Israel. As abordagens Minimalista e Maximalista são interpretadas de forma a estarem relacionadas às divisões sociais. Foram feitas também algumas notas sobre Arqueologia e Cristianismo Primitivo, assim como acerca de Teologia e Arqueologia. O texto é concluído mostrando a perspectiva adotada.
Reading East Asia in Schools of the Wilhelmine Empire
Authors: Weiß Andreas
Published: June 2018

This article investigates representations of East Asia in the geography
textbooks of the Wilhelmine Empire. This region was of central importance for the
imagination of the Empire and for its position in the international balance of power.
China and Japan were oft-mentioned regions,1 and were most frequently included
in textbooks as a result of political crises and armed conflicts. As a result, the subject
of geography repeatedly aired debates and trends from both colonial and scientific
fields, and textbooks reflected the broader social positions of the day.
Synthesis of 4-aryl-2-Thioxo-3,4-Dihydropyrimidines Using a Three-Component Reaction of Meldrum's Acid with Arylaldehydes and Acetylthiourea
Authors: Mehrabi Hossein , Yarahmadi Tayebeh , Bami Farzaneh Alizadeh
Published: June 2018

A one-pot method for the preparation of new 4-aryl-2-thioxo-3,4-dihydropyrimidines via a three-component reaction of Meldrum's acid with arylaldehydes and acetylthiourea in the presence of p-toluenesulfonic acid as catalyst in CH3CN under reflux is reported.
Petrosaviaceae, A new family record for India
Authors: Bhat Nazir Ahmad , Jeri Licha , Roy Dilip Kr. , Kumar Yogendra
Published: June 2018

Not available.Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 25(1): 113-117, 2018 (June)
Predictive Current Control of Boost Three-Level and T-Type Inverters Cascaded in Wind Power Generation Systems
Authors: Yang Guoliang , Yi Haitao , Chai Chunhua , Huang Bingxu , Zhang Yuna , Chen Zhe
Published: June 2018

A topology structure based on boost three-level converters (BTL converters) and T-type three-level inverters for a direct-drive wind turbine in a wind power generation system is proposed. In this structure, the generator-side control can be realized by the boost-TL converter. Compared with the conventional boost converter, the boost-TL converter has a low inductor current ripple, which reduces the torque ripple of the generator, increases the converter’s capacity, and minimizes switching losses. The boost-TL converter can boost the DC output from the rectifier at low speeds. The principles of the boost-TL converter and the T-type three-level inverter are separately introduced. Based on the cascaded structure of the proposed BTL converter and three-level inverter, a model predictive current control (MPCC) method is adopted, and the optimization of the MPCC is presented. The prediction model is derived, and the simulation and experimental research are carried out. The results show that the algorithm based on the proposed cascaded structure is feasible and superior.
The Role of Collusive Dynamics in the Occurrence of Organizational Crime: A Psychoanalytically Informed Social Psychological Perspective
Authors: Schruijer Sandra
Published: June 2018

This short reflective paper discusses collusion from a psychoanalytically informed social psychological perspective. From this perspective, collusion represents a non-conscious group dynamic in which the participants ‘play together’ to keep a threatening or painful reality out of awareness. To illustrate the dynamics, two examples from the world of infrastructure and from higher education are provided. Although collusion in itself is not criminal, it may lead to neglectful or criminal behavior. Since it is a system-level phenomenon, holding individuals accountable will not end the dynamics.
The Organisation as the Cure for Its Own Ailments: Corporate Investigators in The Netherlands
Authors: Meerts Clarissa Annemarie
Published: June 2018

Public/private relations in the field of security attract considerable academic attention. Usually, the state is central to the analysis, focusing on the diminishing role of a previously dominant state. The role that organisations themselves play in the investigation and settlement of their internal norm violations is, however, much less researched. An emphasis on the role of the state downplays the importance of such actions. This research paper, based on qualitative data from the Netherlands, highlights the role of the organisation as the principal actor in corporate investigations and corporate settlements. The legal constraints upon and day-to-day activities of corporate investigators are considered and the consequences of the distance between public law enforcement actors and corporate security are reflected upon. The paper arrives at the conclusion that the limited insight into the measures taken by organisations in response to internal norm violation can be considered problematic from a democratic, rule-of-law point of view. The freedom of action enjoyed by organisations within the private legal sphere makes oversight and control quite challenging.
Can Parentage Analysis Facilitate Breeding Activities in Root and Tuber Crops?
Authors: Norman Prince Emmanuel , Asfaw Asrat , Tongoona Pangirayi Bernard , Danquah Agyemang , Danquah Eric Yirenkyi , Koeyer David De , Asiedu Robert
Published: June 2018

Controlled pollination in root and tuber crops is challenging. Complex ploidy, cross-incompatibility, erratic flowering patterns, outcrossing, etc., limit the efficiency of breeding progress in these crops. Half-sib breeding that involves random pollination among parents is a viable method to harness genetic gain in outcrossing crops that are problematic for performing planned and controlled pollination. The authenticity of resulting progenies from the half-sib breeding is essential to monitor the selection gain in the breeding program. Parentage analysis facilitated by molecular markers is among the available handy tools for crop breeders to maximize genetic gain in a breeding program. It can help to resolve the identity of half-sib progenies and reconstruct the pedigree in the outcrossing crops. This paper reviews the potential benefits of parentage analysis in breeding selected outcrossing root and tuber crops. It assesses how paternity analysis facilitates breeding activities and the ways it improves genetic gain in the root and tuber breeding programs. Conscious use of complementary techniques in the root and tuber breeding programs can increase the selection gain by reducing the long breeding cycle and cost, as well as reliable exploitation of the heritable variation in the desired direction.
Response of Soil Water and Wheat Yield to Rainfall and Temperature Change on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Wang Xuechun , Qadir Muslim , Rasul Fahd , Yang Guotao , Hu Yungao
Published: June 2018

Understanding the influences of rainfall and temperature on soil water and the grain production of winter wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), is of great importance to ensure the sustainability of food production on the Loess Plateau of China. Based on calibration and evaluation, the Environmental Policy Integrated Climate (EPIC) model was employed to determine the response of soil water and winter wheat to rainfall and temperature changing over the last 30 years in different regions. Results showed that (1) the EPIC model simulated soil water content well in 0–2 m soil, with a relative root mean square error (RRMSE) value of 6.0~14.0%, and the mean value of R2 was 0.824, which was similar to the value of ME (0.815); (2) rainfall decreased 13.6–24.9% more from 2001 to 2010 than it did during 1961–2000, while its minimum and maximum temperature increased 1.00–1.55 °C and 0.30–0.84 °C respectively, in comparison with 1961–2000; (3) both the increase of maximum temperature and the decrease of rainfall were harmful to the production of winter wheat. Contrarily, the increase of minimum temperature was beneficial to the production of winter wheat on the Loess Plateau of China. Furthermore, due to rainfall decreasing, the winter wheat yield of Luochuan, Changwu, Yuncheng, and Yan’an decreased by 8.5%, 7.6%, 11.7%, and 12.3%, respectively. Because of the rising of the maximum temperature, winter wheat yield decreased 6.4%, 6.8%, 7.2%, and −3.0%, respectively. On the other hand, the increase of the minimum temperature raised the winter wheat yield of 8.8%, 10.2%, 1.5%, and 12.0%, respectively. Climate change, either precipitation reduction or temperature increase, decreased soil water in the dry land winter wheat field. Therefore, more water-saving technologies are needed to adapt to climate change, to store and use water sources more effectively in semi-arid regions. Though precipitation reduction and maximum temperature increase produced negative impacts on winter wheat yield, the uptrend in minimum temperature is better for increasing the winter wheat yield, which can be used by farmers and governments to adapt to climate change, by adjusting planting time properly.
Early-Season Soil Waterlogging and N Fertilizer Sources Impacts on Corn N Uptake and Apparent N Recovery Efficiency
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Nelson Kelly A. , Motavalli Peter P.
Published: June 2018

Soil waterlogging resulting from extreme precipitation events creates anaerobic conditions that may inhibit plant growth and increase N losses. A three-year (2013–2015) field experiment was conducted in poorly-drained claypan soils to assess the effects of waterlogging [0 or 7-days waterlogging at V3 growth stage of corn (Zea mays L.)] and pre-plant application of different N fertilizer sources and post-waterlogging rescue N application (0 or 84 kg N ha−1 of urea plus urease inhibitor (NCU + UI) at V7) on chlorophyll SPAD meter (CM) readings, stomatal conductance, ear leaf and silage N concentrations, N uptake and apparent N recovery efficiency (ARE) of two corn hybrids with varying amounts of flood tolerance. Pre-plant N fertilizer sources included a non-treated control (CO), urea (NCU), urea plus nitrification inhibitor (NCU + NI) and polymer coated urea (PCU) applied at 168 kg N ha−1. In 7-days waterlogged plots, rescue N applications increased N uptake in PCU treatments 33% and 40% in 2013 and 2014, respectively, as well as in NCU by 48% in 2013. In 7-days waterlogged plots which received rescue N applications, NCU and PCU in 2013 resulted in higher N uptake than CO and NCU + NI by 47 to 77 kg ha−1. PCU had higher N uptake than NCU and NCU + NI by 78 and 72 kg ha−1 in 7-days waterlogged plots that received rescue N applications in 2014. Corn hybrid showed no differences in N uptake and ARE in our study. Our results indicate combining pre-plant N fertilizer source selection and rescue N applications may be a strategy to reduce possible decreases in corn N uptake caused by early season soil waterlogging in average rainfall years.
Fabrication and Testing of Thermoelectric CMOS-MEMS Microgenerators with CNCs Film
Authors: Chen Yu-Wei , Wu Chyan-Chyi , Hsu Cheng-Chih , Dai Ching-Liang
Published: June 2018

Manufacturing and testing of a TMG (thermoelectric microgenerator) with CNCs (carbon nanocapsules) film fabricated utilizing a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) technology are investigated. The microgenerator includes a CNCs layer, thermopiles, and thermometers. CNCs, a heat absorbing material, are coated on the microgenerator, so that the TD (temperature difference) of HP (hot part) and CP (cold part) in the thermopiles increases, resulting in an enhancement of the microgenerator OP (output power). Thermometers fabricated in the microgenerator are employed to detect the HP and CP temperature in thermopiles. In order to enhance thermopiles’ TD, the HP in thermopiles was manufactured as suspension structures isolating heat dissipation, and the CP in thermopiles was made on a silicon substrate to increase the heat sink. Experiments showed that the microgenerator OV (output voltage) was 3.3 mV and its output power was 125 pW at TD 3 K. Voltage and power factors of TMG were 0.71 mV/K/mm2 and 9.04 pW/K2/mm2, respectively.
Prediction of Ground Deformation during Pipe-Jacking Considering Multiple Factors
Authors: Ren Dong-Jie , Xu Ye-Shuang , Shen Jack S. , Zhou Annan , Arulrajah Arul
Published: June 2018

Pipe-jacking is a construction method widely used in pipeline constructions. Prediction of ground deformation induced by pipe-jacking, is important for safety and scheduling purposes. This paper presents an approach to predict ground deformation during pipe-jacking considering following factors: (i) bulkhead additive thrust; (ii) friction on jacking machine; (iii) grouting pressure; and (iv) ground loss. Mindlin’s solution was used to calculate the ground deformation induced by bulkhead additive thrust and friction on the jacking machine. The shearing disturbance coefficient was adopted to evaluate the mitigation effect of shearing behavior on ground deformation. Verruijt’s solution was used to simulate the effect of grouting pressure. Sagaseta’s method was adopted to consider the ground loss induced by over-excavation. Subsequently, a three-dimensional analytical solution for ground deformation induced by pipe-jacking was obtained. A case study based on a pipe-jacking project undertaken in Jiangsu, China was analyzed to validate the proposed approach. The results indicated that the proposed approach was robust and could be implemented for future pipe-jacking projects.
“Good Guys Don’t Rape”: Greek and Non-Greek College Student Perpetrator Rape Myths
Authors: Martinez Taylor , Wiersma-Mosley Jacquelyn D. , Jozkowski Kristen N. , Becnel Jennifer
Published: June 2018

The current study examined sexual assault perpetrator rape myths among college students, and in particular Greek students. Fraternity men are overrepresented among sexual assault perpetrators, while sorority women are at increased risk for victimization of sexual assault. The current study examined Greek-affiliated and non-Greek-affiliated perceptions of perpetrator rape myths among 892 college students; 58% of the sample was Greek-affiliated. Men and Greek-affiliated students reported higher agreement on stereotypes than women and non-Greek-affiliated students regarding perpetrator rape myths. Specifically, fraternity men reported higher stereotypical perceptions compared to all women and non-affiliated men, while there was no difference between sorority and non-affiliated women.
Building Energy Management Using Increased Thermal Capacitance and Thermal Storage Management
Authors: Wilson Mary , Luck Rogelio , Mago Pedro J. , Cho Heejin
Published: June 2018

This study simulates an increased thermal capacitance (ITC) and thermal storage management (TSM) system to reduce the energy consumed by air conditioning and heating systems. The ITC/TSM is coupled with phase change materials (PCM), which enable tank volume reduction. The transient energy modeling software, the Transient System Simulation Tool (TRNSYS), is used to simulate the buildings’ thermal response and energy consumption, as well as the ITC/TSM system and controls. Four temperature-controlled operating regimes are used for the tank: building shell circulation, heat exchanger circulation, solar panel circulation, and storage. This study also explores possible energy-saving benefits from tank volume reduction such as losses associated with the environment temperature due to tank location. Three different tank locations are considered in this paper: outdoor, buried, and indoor. The smallest tank size (five gallons) is used for indoor placement, while the large tank (50 gallons) is used either for outdoor placement or buried at a depth of 1 m. Results for Atlanta, Georgia show an average 48% required energy decrease for cold months (October–April) and a 3% decrease for warm months (May–September) for the ITC/TSM system with PCM when compared with the reference case. A system with PCM reduces the tank size by 90% while maintaining similar energy savings.
Nano-Pulse Stimulation for the Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer and the Changes in Immune Profile
Authors: Guo Siqi , Burcus Niculina I. , Hornef James , Jing Yu , Jiang Chunqi , Heller Richard , Beebe Stephen J.
Published: June 2018

A Pancreatic cancer is a notorious malignant neoplasm with an extremely poor prognosis. Current standard of care is rarely effective against late-stage pancreatic cancer. In this study, we assessed nanopulse stimulation (NPS) as a local treatment for pancreatic cancer in a syngeneic mouse Pan02 pancreatic cancer model and characterized corresponding changes in the immune profile. A single NPS treatment either achieved complete tumor regression or prolonged overall survival in animals with partial tumor regression. While this is very encouraging, we also explored if this local ablation effect could also result in immune stimulation, as was observed when NPS led to the induction of immune-mediated protection from a second tumor challenge in orthotopic mouse breast and rat liver cancer models. In the Pan02 model, there were insufficient abscopal effects (1/10) and vaccine-like protective effects (1/15) suggesting that NPS-induced immune mechanisms in this model were limited. To evaluate this further, the immune landscape was analyzed. The numbers of both T regulatory cells (Tregs) and myeloid derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) in blood were significantly reduced, but memory (CD44+) T-cells were absent. Furthermore, the numbers of Tregs and MDSCs did not reduce in spleens compared to tumor-bearing mice. Very few T-cells, but large numbers of MDSCs were present in the NPS treated tumor microenvironment (TME). The number of dendritic cells in the TME was increased and multiple activation markers were upregulated following NPS treatment. Overall, NPS treatments used here are effective for pancreatic tumor ablation, but require further optimization for induction of immunity or the need to include effective combinational NPS therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Fluorescence Properties of Two New Heterocyclic Compounds Containing 1,5-Dioxaspiro Group
Authors: Zeng Wulan , Jiang Jinhe , Jiang Guanyu , Li Yuehui
Published: June 2018

A precursor, C21H29NO8 (A1) was prepared by reactions of 1,1-dimethoxy-N,N-dimethylmethanamine and 1,5-dioxaspiro[5.5]undecane-2,4-dione. The new N-containing heterocyclic compound, C19H19NO4 (B1) was obtained by adding A1 into ethanol solution of o-toluidine. The crystal structure determination of two compounds were both found to belong to the triclinic P-1 space group. The precursor includes one (C2H8N)+ cation and one (C19H21O8)− anion, which constituted a chained structure by N–H···O intra- and intermolecular interactions. The title compound (B1) formed a 3D-network structure by weak C–H···O intermolecular interactions and π···π stacking interactions. The fluorescent behaviors of A1 and B1 in ethanol solution were discussed. The result shows that they exhibit blue and purplish blue emission, respectively.
Fundamental Irreversibility: Planckian or Schrödinger–Newton?
Authors: Diósi Lajos
Published: June 2018

The concept of universal gravity-related irreversibility began in quantum cosmology. The ultimate reason for universal irreversibility is thought to come from black holes close to the Planck scale. Quantum state reductions, unrelated to gravity or relativity but related to measurement devices, are completely different instances of irreversibilities. However, an intricate relationship between Newton gravity and quantized matter might result in fundamental and spontaneous quantum state reduction—in the non-relativistic Schrödinger–Newton context. The above two concepts of fundamental irreversibility emerged and evolved with few or even no interactions. The purpose here is to draw a parallel between the two approaches first, and to ask rather than answer the question: can both the Planckian and the Schrödinger–Newton indeterminacies/irreversibilities be two faces of the same universe. A related personal note of the author’s 1986 meeting with Aharonov and Bohm is appended.
An Efficient Regional Sensitivity Analysis Method Based on Failure Probability with Hybrid Uncertainty
Authors: Zhang Dawei , Li Weilin , Wu Xiaohua , Liu Tie
Published: June 2018

The application of reliability sensitivity analysis (RSA) to the high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission systems is one of the hot topics in the future. A regional RSA method, the contribution to failure probability (CFP) plot, is investigated in this paper. This CFP plot contains both aleatory and epistemic uncertain variables modeled as random variables by probability theory and interval variables by evidence theory, respectively. A surrogate model of second-level limit state function needs to be established for each joint focal element (JFE), which is a time-consuming process. Additionally, an excessive number of Monte Carlo simulations (MCS) and optimizations may exceed the computing power of modern computers. In order to deal with the above problems and further decrease the computational cost, a more effective CFP calculation method under the framework of random-evidence hybrid reliability analysis is proposed. Three important improvements in the proposed method make the calculation of CFP more efficient and easy to implement. Firstly, an active learning kriging (ALK) based on the symbol prediction idea is employed to directly establish a surrogate model rather than a second-level limit state function with fewer function calls, which greatly simplifies construction of the model. Secondly, a random set-based Monte Carlo simulation (RS-MCS) is used to handle the issue of oversized optimization caused by too many JFEs. Thirdly, for further reducing the size of optimizations and improving the efficiency of the CFP calculation, a Karush-Kuhn-Tucker-based optimization (KKTO) method is recommended in the proposed method to solve the extreme value of performance function. A numerical example and an engineering example were studied to verify the accuracy, effectiveness and practicality of the proposed method. It can be seen from the results that regardless of whether it is modeling or computational efficiency, the proposed method is better than the original method.
Investment Uncertainty Analysis in Eucalyptus Bole Biomass Production in Brazil
Authors: Simões Danilo , Dinardi Ailton , Da Silva Magali
Published: June 2018

Forestry investment projects for the biomass production of the eucalyptus bole can be characterized by uncertain environments, which result in economic risk to the forest producer, however that can be measured by applying probabilistic techniques. This was our motivation and justification for analyzing the economic-financial viability of different silvicultural practices for eucalyptus bole biomass production under conditions of uncertainties, running Monte Carlo method for risk management. The experiment was carried out in the state of São Paulo, Brazil, using 5 treatments with spacings of 3 × 2 m; 3 × 1 m; 1.5 × 2 m; 3 m × 0.5 m; and 1.5 m × 1.0 m, i.e., different spacings between planting lines and plants. These treatments were characterized as investment projects. To develop stochastic models, we relied on technical-economic deterministic variables. We evaluated the investment projects based on the cash flows under conditions of uncertainty, discounted at the attractiveness rate calculated by capital asset pricing model. With the results of these economic flows, the net present value, the modified internal rate of return and the profitability index values were estimated, commonly used in the analysis of investments in projects. The results showed that based on economic metrics, the three-year rotation cycle for forest stands for biomass production of the main bole of eucalyptus, with a spacing of three meters between rows and two meters between plants, had an 83% probability of economic success. The sensitivity analysis showed that the bole biomass of eucalyptus is the most important variable for determining the economic-financial feasibility of the investment project.
Beach Erosion in the Gulf of Castellammare di Stabia in Response to the Trapping of Longshore Drifting Sediments of the Gulf of Napoli (Southern Italy)
Authors: Pennetta Micla
Published: June 2018

The results of this study have allowed verification that longshore sediment transport along the coast of Napoli Gulf (southern Italy) takes place from Northwest to Southeast. The current analysis describes the results of an integrated sedimentological and geomorphological study of the Neapolitan coastal area. A sedimentological and morphosedimentary study was carried out by bathymetric survey and sampling of bottom sediments. The analysis of modal isodensity curves shows that all the sediments are moved from NW to SE by longshore currents parallel to the coastline. The morphological evolution of the Castellammare di Stabia Gulf coastal area, based on historical coastline changes, starts from 1865, when the sandy littoral was wide and in its natural state. Since the construction of the Torre Annunziata harbor in 1871, sediments transported by a NW-SE longshore drift have become trapped, inducing the genesis of a new wide triangular-shaped beach on the updrift side (NW) of the harbor breakwall. This process induced a significant shoreline retreat of the south-east sector of the littoral. Widespread beach erosion of the coastal physiographic unit of Castellammare di Stabia Gulf (delimited by two ports) is more developed in the southern portion. This study highlights a slight rotation of the shoreline toward the East and a general trend of regression, with typical overall accentuation of shoreline concavity, and significant widening of the triangular-shaped beaches at the end of the falcate. This reduced sediment input removed from the sedimentary budget a large amount of deposits, which are hardly restorable due to the scarce supply of sediment load by the Sarno river and its tributaries. In addition to this new and important derived morphologic feature, other recent human interventions have contributed to further modifications of morphologic characteristics of emerged and submerged beach. The intense use of the territory caused modifications on both the fluvial course and river mouth with direct and indirect effects on the shoreline and the drainage network of the Sarno River.
Human Exposure to Ferret Badger Rabies in Taiwan
Authors: Shih Tai-Hwa , Chiang Jeng-Tung , Wu Hung-Yi , Inoue Satoshi , Tsai Cheng-Ta , Kuo Shih-Chiang , Yang Cheng-Yao , Fei Chang-Young
Published: June 2018

On 17 July 2013, Taiwan confirmed multiple cases of the rabies virus (RABV) in the wild Taiwan Ferret badger (TFB) (Melogale moschata) member of the family Mustelidae. This study aims at investigating the risk factors for human exposure to rabid TFBs. Statistical inference based on Pearson correlation showed that there was a strong positive correlation between the total number of positive TFB rabies cases and the number of rabid TFBs involved with human activities in 81 enzootic townships (r = 0.91; p < 0.001). A logistic regression analysis indicated that the risk probability of a human being bitten by rabid TFBs was significantly higher when there were no dogs around (35.55% versus 6.17% (indoors, n = 171, p = 0.0001), and 52.00% versus 5.26% (outdoors, n = 44, p = 0.021)), and whether or not there was a dog around was the only crucial covariate that was statistically significantly related to the risk of a human being bitten. In conclusion, this study showed the value of having vaccinated pets as a deterrent to TFB encounters and as a buffer to prevent human exposure to rabid TFBs. The presence of unvaccinated pets could become a significant risk factor in the longer term if rabies isn’t controlled in TFBs because of the spillover between the sylvatic and urban cycles of rabies. Consequently, raising dogs, as well as keeping rabies vaccinations up-to-date for them, can be considered an effective preventive strategy to reduce the risk for human exposure to rabid TFBs.
Autonomous Point Cloud Acquisition of Unknown Indoor Scenes
Authors: González-de Santos L. M. , Díaz-Vilariño L. , Balado J. , Martínez-Sánchez J. , González-Jorge H. , Sánchez-Rodríguez A.
Published: June 2018

This paper presents a methodology for the automatic selection of heuristic scanning positions in unknown indoor environments. The surveying is carried out by a robotic system following a stop-and-go procedure. Starting with a random scan position in the room, the point cloud is discretized in voxels and they are submitted to a two-step classification and are labelled as occupied, occluded, empty, window, door, or exterior based on a visibility analysis. The main objective of the methodology is to obtain a complete point cloud of the indoor space and accordingly, the next best position is the scan position minimizing occluded voxels. Because the method locates doors and windows, the room can be delimited and the scan can continue for adjacent rooms. This approach has been tested in a real case study, in which three scans were developed.
Cellular Receptors of Amyloid β Oligomers (AβOs) in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Mroczko Barbara , Groblewska Magdalena , Litman-Zawadzka Ala , Kornhuber Johannes , Lewczuk Piotr
Published: June 2018

It is estimated that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) affects tens of millions of people, comprising not only suffering patients, but also their relatives and caregivers. AD is one of age-related neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) characterized by progressive synaptic damage and neuronal loss, which result in gradual cognitive impairment leading to dementia. The cause of AD remains still unresolved, despite being studied for more than a century. The hallmark pathological features of this disease are senile plaques within patients’ brain composed of amyloid beta (Aβ) and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) of Tau protein. However, the roles of Aβ and Tau in AD pathology are being questioned and other causes of AD are postulated. One of the most interesting theories proposed is the causative role of amyloid β oligomers (AβOs) aggregation in the pathogenesis of AD. Moreover, binding of AβOs to cell membranes is probably mediated by certain proteins on the neuronal cell surface acting as AβO receptors. The aim of our paper is to describe alternative hypotheses of AD etiology, including genetic alterations and the role of misfolded proteins, especially Aβ oligomers, in Alzheimer’s disease. Furthermore, in this review we present various putative cellular AβO receptors related to toxic activity of oligomers.
The Role of miR-29a in the Regulation, Function, and Signaling of Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Huang Ying-Hsien , Yang Ya-Ling , Wang Feng-Sheng
Published: June 2018

Both fibrosis and cirrhosis of the liver are the end results of most kinds of chronic liver damage and represent a common but difficult clinical challenge throughout the world. The inhibition of the fibrogenic, proliferative, and migratory effects of hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) has become an experimental therapy for preventing and even reversing hepatic fibrosis. Furthermore, a complete understanding of the function of non-coding RNA-mediated epigenetic mechanisms in HSC activation may improve our perception of liver fibrosis pathogenesis. This review focuses on the evolving view of the molecular mechanisms by which HSC activation by miR-29a signaling may moderate the profibrogenic phenotype of these cells, thus supporting the use of miR-29a agonists as a potential therapy for treating liver fibrosis in the future.
Narrow Band Filter at 1550 nm Based on Quasi-One-Dimensional Photonic Crystal with a Mirror-Symmetric Heterostructure
Authors: Wang Fang , Cheng Yong Zhi , Wang Xian , Zhang Yi Nan , Nie Yan , Gong Rong Zhou
Published: June 2018

In this paper, we present a high-efficiency narrow band filter (NBF) based on quasi-one-dimensional photonic crystal (PC) with a mirror symmetric heterostructure. Similarly to the Fabry-Perot-like resonance cavity, the alternately-arranged dielectric layers on both sides act as the high reflectance and the junction layers used as the defect mode of the quasi-one-dimensional PC, which can be designed as a NBF. The critical conditions for the narrow pass band with high transmittance are demonstrated and analyzed by simulation and experiment. The simulation results indicate that the transmission peak of the quasi-one-dimensional PC-based NBF is up to 95.99% at the telecommunication wavelength of 1550 nm, which agrees well with the experiment. Furthermore, the influences of the periodicity and thickness of dielectric layers on the transmission properties of the PC-based NBF also have been studied numerically. Due to its favorable properties of PC-based NBF, it is can be found to have many potential applications, such as detection, sensing, and communication.
Association of metabolic syndrome with abnormalities of bulbar conjunctival vessels
Authors: Miniauskienë Goda , Jaðinskas Vytautas
Published: June 2018

Aim. To examine and evaluate the relationships of the metabolic syndrome and abnormalities of bulbar conjunctival vessels among middle-aged Kaunas population. Material and methods. Analysis was performed on 383 asymptomatic persons aged 38–39 years (170 men and 212 women). Metabolic syndrome was defined using criteria of the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP ATP III). For determination of abnormalities in bulbar conjunctiva vessels and microcirculation, each participant underwent noncontact slit lamp examination. The changes of vessel walls and bloodstream, extravasal alterations were evaluated, and conjunctival index was calculated. Results. Metabolic syndrome was present in 10.7% of individuals. Persons with metabolic syndrome had a 2.35-point higher conjunctival index compared to the controls (P=0.003). After evaluation of various components of metabolic syndrome to conjunctival index, it was determined that the greatest change in the means of conjunctival index was due to hyperglycemia (P=0.02) and central obesity (P=0.05). Metabolic syndrome was related to venular dilatation (OR=3.78; 95% CI, 1.86–7.72), arteriolar narrowing (OR=1.98; 95% CI, 0.97– 4.09), decreased arteriolar-venular ratio (OR=2.35; 95% CI, 1.13–4.98), and increased venular tortuosity (OR=2.24; 95% CI, 1.06–4.82). Multiple logistic analysis revealed that venular dilatation (OR=3.38; 95% CI, 1.43–7.99) and arteriolar narrowing (OR=2.22; 95% CI, 0.98-5.01) were significant factors in the prognosis of metabolic syndrome.Conclusions. Metabolic syndrome was significantly related to abnormalities of bulbar conjunctival vessels such as venular dilatation, arteriolar narrowing, decreased arteriolar-venular ratio, and increased venular tortuosity. Both conjunctival index and individual conjunctival microvascular changes may be prognostic factors for metabolic syndrome, but long-term studies on associations between metabolic syndrome and changes of bulbar conjunctival vessels are needed.
Significance of intracranial pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure in severe pediatric traumatic brain injury
Authors: Grinkevièiûtë Dovilë , Këvalas Rimantas , Matukevièius Algimantas , Ragaiðis Vytautas , Tamaðauskas Arimantas
Published: June 2018

The aim of the study was to evaluate outcome of children after severe traumatic brain injury treated according to intracranial pressure (ICP)-targeted protocol, to define threshold values of peak ICP and minimal cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) for decompressive osteoplastic craniotomy, and to determine the relationship between ICP, CPP and long-term outcome in these children. All children admitted to Pediatric Intensive Care Unit of Kaunas University of Medicine Hospital after severe head injury from January 2004 to June 2006 and treated according to ICPtargeted protocol for the management of severe head trauma were prospectively included in the study. Raised ICP was defined as a level higher than 20 mmHg. Minimal CPP was considered to be at a level of 40 mmHg. Outcome was defined using Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) at discharge from the hospital and after 6 months. Forty-eight patients (32 boys and 16 girls) were included into the study. Favorable outcome (GOS score of 4 and 5) after 6 months was achieved in 43 (89.6%) cases. Mean peak ICP was 24.2±7.2 mmHg and mean minimal CPP – 53.1±14.7 mmHg. Decompressive craniotomy was performed in 13 cases. Threshold values of peak ICP and minimal CPP for decompressive craniotomy were 22.5 mmHg (area under the curve, 0.880) and 46.5 mmHg (area under the curve, 0.898), respectively. The differences in peak ICP and minimal CPP in groups of favorable and unfavorable outcomes were not statistically significant. Treating children after severe traumatic brain injury according to the ICP-targeted protocol for the management of severe pediatric traumatic brain injury resulted in a favorable long-term outcome.
The incidence and diagnostics of congenital heart defects in Kaunas infant population during 1999–2005
Authors: Dulskienë Virginija , Malinauskienë Vilija , Azaravièienë Ada , Kuèienë Renata
Published: June 2018

The objective of this study was to determinate the incidence and diagnostics of congenital heart defects in Kaunas infant population in 1999–2005 and to compare the data obtained with the data of years 1995–1998. Subject and methods. The study population comprised all newborns born in Kaunas city during 1999– 2005. Congenital heart defects were registered based on clinical diagnosis after its verification using the data from consulting centers and pediatric outpatient departments. To assess the incidence of congenital heart malformations in newborn population, we conducted a validated newborn register based on maternal residential district. Modern epidemiological methods were used for data analysis. Results. In 1999–2005, there were 24 069 live births in Kaunas: 2231 newborns were born with congenital anomalies, 198 had congenital heart malformations. The incidence of congenital heart defects was 8.2 per 1000 live newborns. The majority of congenital heart malformations were diagnosed in delivery units (93.94%). We have analyzed the relationship between birth weight and gestational age of newborns with congenital heart malformations. Newborns with low birth weight were at significantly higher risk of congenital heart malformation than newborns with normal birth weight (OR=3.52, 95% CI, 2.25–5.47). Our data also showed that newborns born before 32 weeks of gestation had a 5-fold increased risk of congenital heart malformation (OR=5.20; 95% CI, 2.50–10.84) and infants born before 37 weeks of gestation had a 4-fold increased risk (OR=4.08; 95% CI, 2.68–6.19) compared with newborns born after 37 weeks of gestation. Conclusions. This study shows that incidence of congenital heart anomalies in Kaunas newborn population was 8.2 cases per 1000 live newborns in 1999–2005. It was determined that during 1999–2005, the number of above-mentioned anomalies diagnosed in delivery units increased by 23%.
Enrichment of the educational environment with information and communication technologies: State of art at the Faculty of Pharmacy of Kaunas University of Medicine
Authors: Butrimienë Edita , Stankevièienë Nida
Published: June 2018

Both traditional and new educational environments, the latter enriched with information and communication technologies, coexist in today’s university. The goal of this article is to present the concept of educational environment enriched with information and communication technologies, to reveal the main features of such environment, and to present the results of certain investigation on the application of information technologies in teaching/learning processes at the Faculty of Pharmacy of Kaunas University of Medicine. The discussion object of this paper is the educational environment enriched with information and communication technologies. In designing the environments of this type, positive aspects of traditional teaching models are being developed by integrating them into the new educational environment. The concept of educational environment enriched with information and communication technologies is reviewed in the first part of this paper. The structure and main features of educational environments enriched with information and communication technologies are highlighted in the second part. The results of the study on the application of information technologies in teaching/learning processes at the Faculty of Pharmacy of Kaunas University of Medicine are presented in the third part.
The frequency of malignant disease in cytological group of suspected cancer (ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy of nonpalpable thyroid nodules)
Authors: Mišeikytė-Kaubrienė Edita , Ulys Albertas , Trakymas Mantas
Published: June 2018

Background. Fine-needle aspiration biopsy is the most important procedure for differentiating benign thyroid nodules from malignant ones. Traditionally, findings of fine-needle aspiration biopsy are divided into four categories: nondiagnostic, benign lesions, suspected cancer, and malignant lesions. Group suspicious for cancer largely involves follicular neoplasms as well as lesions with cytological features of malignancy. Objective. The purpose of this study was to establish the value of ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy in the diagnosis of nonpalpable thyroid cancer and to assess the frequency of malignant disease in the group of suspected cancer. Patients and methods. A total of 184 patients with nonpalpable thyroid nodules (less than 1.5 cm in diameter) were examined by means of ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy. Patients were included in the study based on sonographic findings implicating possible malignant nature of nodules. Results. During 1997–2002, 204 ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsies of thyroid nodules were performed; findings were nondiagnostic in 5.9% of cases. In 59.8% of cases, cytological examination revealed benign lesions; in 11.8%, suspected cancer; and in 22.5%, malignant lesions. Eighty-five patients underwent subsequent surgery with histological examination of specimens obtained. In 45 cases, cytological diagnosis of malignant or suspected thyroid cancer was confirmed by histological examination after surgery. Conclusion. We conclude that ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration biopsy has a high accuracy in the diagnostic evaluation of nonpalpable thyroid nodule with cytological features of malignancy. However, fineneedle aspiration biopsy is not effective diagnostic method for differentiating benign thyroid nodules from malignant ones in follicular neoplasm group.