bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Organizational Performance: The Role of TQM Practices in Banking Sector of Pakistan
Authors: Nazar Nida , Ramzani Sara Ravan , Anjum Temoor , Shahzad Imran Ahmed
Published: December 2018

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the m relationship between Total Quality Management (TQM) and Organizational Performance (OP). The motivation for this study was driven by the inconsistent findings in the literature concerning the relationships between TQM and OP. Due to the inconsistent results, a new research has emerged and this has prompted further investigation on the effects of other variables that may better explain the nature of these links. Questionnaires were distributed to 400 Sections of the Pakistani banks. 230 questionnaires were returned and used in the analysis using the PLS-SEM. The results of this study revealed that TQM is significant predictors of OP
Les Difficultés D’apprentissage En Éducation Physique Et Sportive: Une Étude De Trois Cas D’enseignement De La Course De Haies Au Bénin
Authors: Basile Agbodjogbe D. , Bachar M. Ogueboule , Kossivi Attiklemé , Georges Kpazaï
Published: December 2018

This study explored the functioning of the in-situ didactic system to highlight the difficulties experienced by students in the third year of the secondary school level when performing the activities suggested by their Sport and Physical Education Teachers. Based on the logic of the ternarity of the didactic system (Amade-Escot, 2008; 2003), the interactions between the teachers and students during the teaching/learning of the race were the subjects of study. A triangulation method was utilized whereby data was collected by extracting information from various sources including (Leutenegger, 2009; Van Der Maren, 1996): documentary analysis, interviews conducted pre-session, post-session, and post-cycle, as well as audio-visual recording of the class sessions. Central concepts within the anthropological theory of didactic (Chevallard, 1992) and didactic joint action theory (Sensevy, 2007) were used to analyze and interpret the results of which the most salient revealed that the students have difficulty with crossing and resuming the race after the hurdle. The inter-hurdle race does not occur at regular intervals. These are difficulties previously noted by Lamote (2002) and Aubert (1994). Within the context of our investigation, the agglomeration of the contents of the program, the number of sessions (03) devoted to the teaching/learning cycle of this physical activity, the quality of the material used, and the personal interactions between the participants, were all factors shown to account for the difficulties experienced by the students.
Economic Turbulence in the Iron Kitchenware Industry in Italy
Authors: Garbelli Maria
Published: December 2018

Companies in turbulent economies are required to face several difficulties, mainly related to the specific features of an extremely volatile environment. Although a similar, hypercompetitive context can be considered a global condition today, it is not perceived in the same way worldwide. Thus, international development could be the best method for exporting to different locations and getting the best opportunities to survive in this unstable environment. Italy is one of the European Union countries affected the most by turbulence and the financial crisis with a loss of competitiveness compared to other countries in the Union. The economic system has changed considerably, rising the bankruptcy cases and lowering reported earnings. This paper claims to give an overview of the Italian situation inside the European Community as Italy is recognized as one of the most industrialized areas of northern Italy; the province of Brescia is home of one of the two Italian districts devoted to the iron kitchenware industry—an industry in which Italy held a leading position worldwide for a long time. Ten years after the financial crisis, and supported by exports flows analysis, we evaluate the Italian competitive position in this industry compared to that of the country’s European competitors. Export data (inside and outside the European Union) in three years (2007, 2010, and 2014) show Italy’s leading global role in this industry but also the negative effect of the crisis on the country, witnessed by the strong rise of other competitors.
Effect of Concept Mapping in Teachng of Physics in Senior Secondary Schools in Portharcourt Local Government Area Rivers State
Authors: Doris Omeodu M.
Published: December 2018

The study examined the effect of concept mapping in the teaching of physic in senior secondary school in port Harcourt local government area Rivers state. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of concept mapping on the teaching of physics. The study also found the difference in the academic achievement of students taught physics with concept mapping and conventional teaching method. Eighty-four SS3 physics students were used for the study. Forty-three 43 comprised of the experimental group and fortyone in the control group. The study adopted pre-test post test quasi experimental design. The instrument used for the study was Physics achievement test (PAT).The instrument contained 25 multiple choice questions, in which each of the questions 2 marks. The instrument was validated by two experts in the department of science education in Rivers State University. Pearson product moment correlation coefficient was used to ascertain the instrument’s level of reliability, which resulted to r value of 0.62. findings of the study shows that students taught Physics with concept mapping significantly better than those taught with conventional method. Also the study found that there was no significant difference between male and female students taught Physics with concept mapping. The study recommended that teachers should imbibe concept mapping method in the teaching of Physics so as to enhance students’ comprehension, identification of relationships that exits between concepts and creativity.
Etude Empirique De L’effet Du Comportement D’exces De Confiance Sur La Volatilite Du Marche Boursier Marocain
Authors: Sifouh Nabil , Oubal Khadija , Bayoud Sara
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this paper is to measure whether the investor operating on the Casablanca Stock Exchange displays a behavior of overconfidence, and to examine, under this hypothesis, the role of overconfidence in the explanation of fluctuations in the value of the MASI benchmark index over a 16-year period from 2002 to 2017. Using the econometric techniques in terms of causality and conditional volatility modeling, the results of this research show the presence of the overconfidence behavior and the positive effect of the latter on the conditional volatility of the monthly return of the MASI index.
Insertion Des Jeunes À Risque À Travers Les Opportunités D’activités Économiques Offertes Dans Le Secteur Des Transports En Commun À Abidjan
Authors: Hermann Crizoa
Published: December 2018

The study aims to show that the public transport sector in Abidjan, constitutes a pool of jobs likely to allow the social integration of young people at risk of committing crimes and offenses. To achieve this goal, 207 people were interviewed empirically from a judgment sample through municipalities in the city of Abidjan. The data collected were analysed and processed qualitatively and quantitatively. The results of the survey reveal that the Abidjan public transport environment, essentially perceived as a niche for the development of urban insecurity, enables the social integration of many young people at risk by the opportunities for economic activities that are available to them without qualification.
A Period Analysis on Values Shaped by Culture: Turkish and Armenian Women's Clothing
Authors: Artac Berna Yıldırım , Koca Emine
Published: December 2018

Written works such as miniatures, engravings and travel books, which contain visuals related to the Ottoman State, are considered to be documents bearing witness to history and imparting information about the daily life of the Ottoman Empire. These documents contain visuals of the people living in the Ottoman State, imparting, among other information, clues on the characteristics of the clothes of the period. In the Ottoman state cultural interaction often overrode attempts to create boundaries in the forms of clothing belonging to distinct communities. The resulting similarities in clothing form the starting point of this study. Focusing on the examination of clothes belonging to Turkish and Armenian women who lived in the Ottoman Empire in the18th and 19th centuries, this study aims to determine the similarities and differences between the clothing cultures of the two communities. A total of 22 images reflecting the everyday clothing of Turkish and Armenian women were examined with the help of a clothing examination form repared by the researchers. The visuals were analyzed according to form and usage, design features were explained, and the similarities and differences between the women's garments were interpreted.
Peut-On Se Passer Du Concept D’ecosysteme ? Partie I : Questions Epistemologiques Et Methodologiques
Authors: Rolland Thierry
Published: December 2018

The concept of ecosystem played a central role in the structuring of ecology as a full-fledged scientific discipline during the twentieth century. However, certain theoretical and practical issues related to the notions of homogeneity and stability on one side and dynamic equilibrium on the other led, from an artefactual a priori, to exclude relevant phenomena from the field of analysis, such as maintaining ecosystems subject to conditions of permanent change. In this first article, after a historical and epistemological analysis of the heuristic value and the limits of the concept of ecosystem, some tracks are proposed in the direction of its maintenance by removing the ambiguities that accompany it since its origins.
Is There a Surplus of Non-Specialist Physicians in Portugal or Just Poor Human Resources Planning?
Authors: Ribeiro-Mourão Francisco , Araújo António , Cortes Carlos , Villanueva Tiago , Ribeiro João Carlos
Published: December 2018

N/A.
Letter to the Editor: The Opioid Prescribing Scenario in Portugal from a Primary Care Perspective.
Authors: Barão Cátia , Mendes Vanessa
Published: December 2018

N/A.
A Nova Prova Nacional de Seriação em Portugal: É Apenas o Início mas Estamos no Caminho Certo
Authors: Ribeiro João Carlos , Villanueva Tiago
Published: December 2018

N/A.
Carta ao Editor: Choosing Wisely Portugal
Authors: Silva Carlos Francisco , Nascimento Andreia Filipa , Fernandes Rui
Published: December 2018

N/A.
Errata a “Carta ao Editor sobre o Artigo: “Ainda a propósito do artigo Ansiedade, Depressão e Performance Académica: Um Estudo em Estudantes Portugueses de Medicina Versus Estudantes de Outros Cursos.” João Moreira de Sousa, Cátia A. Moreira, Diogo TellesCorreia. Acta Med Port. 2018;31:454-62.”
Authors: Gama Marques João
Published: December 2018

Artigo publicado com erros: https://www.actamedicaportuguesa.com/revista/index.php/amp/article/view/11384/Na página 607, onde se lê:Letter to the Editor about the Article: “Still Regarding Anxiety, Depression and Academic Performance: A Study Amongst Portuguese Medical Students Versus Non-Medical Students”, by João Moreira de Sousa,Cátia A. Moreira, Diogo Telles-Correia. Acta Med Port. 2018;31:454-62.Carta ao Editor sobre o Artigo: “Ainda a propósito do artigo Ansiedade, Depressão e Performance Académica: Um Estudo em Estudantes Portugueses de Medicina Versus Estudantes de Outros Cursos.” João Moreira de Sousa, Cátia A. Moreira, Diogo TellesCorreia. Acta Med Port. 2018;31:454-62.Deverá ler-se:Letter to the Editor: Still Regarding Anxiety, Depression and Academic Performance: A Study Amongst Portuguese Medical Students Versus Non-Medical StudentsCarta ao Editor: Ainda a propósito de Ansiedade, Depressão e Performance Académica: Um Estudo em Estudantes Portugueses de Medicina Versus Estudantes de Outros Cursos.
Histological Subtypes and Clinical Behavior Evaluation of Salivary Gland Tumors
Authors: Pinheiro Jorge , Sá Fernandes Margarida , Pereira Ana Rodrigues , Lopes José Manuel
Published: December 2018

Introduction: Salivary gland tumors include a wide spectrum of histological subtypes and clinical behavior, which we aim to evaluate.Material and Methods: We performed a retrospective study of all salivary gland tumors diagnosed and treated at the Centro Hospitalar São João, Porto, between 2005 and 2015. Histological re- evaluation was performed in all cases and patient files were reviewed and both clinical and follow-up data were collected. Disease-free survival and overall survival were evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival curves and compared using the Mantel-Cox log-rank test. The significance threshold was set at 0.05.Results: We selected 295 cases, 150 males with a mean age at diagnosis of 50.4 (± 16.4) years. Primary benign epithelial tumors [n = 228 (77.3%)] were mostly pleomorphic adenomas [n = 148 (64.9%)] and Warthin tumors [n = 61 (26.8%)]. Primary malignant epithelial tumors [n = 43 (14.8%)] included mucoepidermoid [n = 16 (37.2%)], adenoid cystic [n = 6 (14.0%)] and acinic cell [n = 5 (11.6%)] carcinomas; 32 (74.4%) in parotid, 2 (4.6%) in submandibular and 9 (21%) in minor salivary glands. Primary epithelial tumors were more frequently malignant in minor (33.3%) than in major (13.9%) salivary glands. Local recurrence occurred in 30.2% and distant metastases in 25.6% tumors. The mean disease-free interval was 26 (± 37.5) months; most metastases were in lung and central nervous system. The 5 and 10 year disease-free survival rates were 63.4% and 50.1%, respectively; the 5 and 10 year disease-specific survival rates were 76.9% and 57.9%, respectively. Primary salivary tumors included also lymphomas [n = 8 (2.7%)] and soft tissue tumors [n = 5 (1.7%)]. Secondary tumors included metastases of carcinomas [n = 7 (2.4%)] and involvement by lymphoma [n = 1 (0.3%)].Discussion: Our results concerning age, gender, histological subtype, frequency and clinical behavior of salivary tumors concur with European studies. Divergence with Portuguese studies might be related with the inclusion criteria, clinical referral and time lag variations.Conclusion: Although uncommon, salivary gland tumors occur in a wide age range and include histological subtypes with diverse prognosis.
Reasons for Declining Venom Immunotherapy
Authors: Carneiro-Leão Leonor , Amaral Luís , Coimbra Alice
Published: December 2018

Introduction: Hymenoptera venom allergy is associated with significant morbidity and deterioration in health-related quality of life, and risk of fatal systemic reactions. Although venom immunotherapy is safe and the only effective treatment in allergic individuals, some patients prefer not to pursue this treatment. Since 2011, when the 50% reimbursement was stopped, patients must fully support the cost of immunotherapy. This study aimed to ascertain the reasons why patients decline immunotherapy.Material and Methods: A medical records review of all patients proposed to receive venom immunotherapy at an Allergy and Clinical Immunology Department in Porto, Portugal, between 2006 and 2015, followed by a phone interview to patients refusing treatment.Results: A total of 83 subjects were enrolled, with a mean (± SD) age of 44.4 (14.7) years and 55 (66%) males; 27 refused venom immunotherapy between 2006 and 2015. Nineteen were interviewed and 14 of those stated price as the main reason for declining treatment. The only identified risk factor associated with immunotherapy refusal was being proposed after 2011 (OR: 3.29; 95% CI: 1.12 – 9.68; p = 0.03).Discussion: The number of patients refusing venom immunotherapy doubled since reimbursement was withdrawn. Price was identified as the major obstacle to treatment completion. Immunotherapy proposal after reimbursement was stopped was associated with a 3-fold increase in the risk of refusing treatment.Conclusion: These findings show how economic decisions may have a detrimental effect on patient care, as immunotherapy refusal left them exposed to an avoidable life-threatening risk.
The Added Value of a Vasculitis Clinic in a Tertiary Referral Hospital
Authors: Khmelinskii Nikita , Seixas Maria Inês , Ponte Cristina , Fonseca João Eurico , Macieira Carla
Published: December 2018

N/A.
Development and validation of a fast and simple RP-HPLC method for the determination of diosmin and hesperidin in combined tablet dosage form
Authors: Piponski Marjan , Bakovska Stoimenova Tanja , Topkoska Marina , Stefov Stefan , Piponska Magdalena , Trendovska Serafimovska Gordana
Published: December 2018

A fast, simple, accurate and robust reversed phase HPLC method for the simultaneous determination of two flavonoids, hesperidin and diosmin, in combined tablets was developed and validated. This method uses a short C8 column with dimensions of 75 mm × 4 mm with 5 µm particles thermostated at 30 °C, and a mobile phase composed of formic acid (pH 4.1 and 0.05%, V/V) and methanol (58:42, V/V), delivered at a flow rate of 1.2 ml/min, with UV detector signal monitoring at 280 nm and an injection volume of 5 µl. These chromatographic conditions yielded chromatograms with symmetric peaks of hesperidin, eluting at a ~2 min retention time, and diosmin, at a ~4.5 min retention time, with a total run time cycle of 6 min. The method validation parameters confirmed excellent values for accuracy, linearity and reproducibility. This method is suitable for routine analysis in pharmaceutical and food quality control laboratories.
Study of corrosion inhibition for mild steel in NaCl solution by propolis extract
Authors: Grudić Veselinka , Bošković Ivana , Martinez Sanja , Knežević Bojana
Published: December 2018

This paper studies the corrosion inhibition of X52 5L carbon steel in 0.51 mol dm-3 sodium chloride solution in the presence of propolis extract. The inhibition efficiency of propolis extract in a chloride solution was tested by its adding to the working solution and by making a solid propolis coating on the electrode surface. The possibility of corrosion inhibition in the presence of propolis in flow conditions as well as at different temperatures was investigated by electrochemical methods: potentiodynamic polarization method and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. It was shown that propolis extract acts as a corrosion inhibitor of anodic type whose efficiency increases with increasing of temperature and with stirring of solution. The best protection is achieved by applying propolis coating in flow systems. The EIS method confirmed formation of a protective layer by adsorption of propolis extract on the electrode surface. The results of the FTIR, SEM and EDX surface tests are consistent with the results of electrochemical testing and suggest that propolis extract acts as a corrosion inhibitor of steel by forming a protective film on the electrode surface.
Simultaneous RP-HPLC-DAD determination of dansyl amino acids in chemically treated human hair
Authors: Sherovski Pece , Stefova Marina , Ristovska Natasha
Published: December 2018

A simple, rapid and reliable RP-HPLC-DAD method for the analysis of 19 amino acids in the protein hydrolysate of chemically treated hair is developed. The pre-column dansylation and RP-HPLC separation were optimized and peak resolution was improved as compared to previously published HPLC methods. The developed method showed excellent linearity for all tested amino acids in the concentration range 0.05-0.5 mmol/l. The obtained results show that the concentration of all amino acids detected in bleached hair decreases with increasing the concentration of hydrogen peroxide, this is most significant for cystine, compared to virgin hair. Higher amounts of the typical amino acids for keratin have been measured after exposure of hair to protein treatments. The method has been shown as very useful for amino acids analysis in a protein hydrolisate and it can be also used for establishing the amino acid profiles of other protein samples using this optimized procedure.
Budidaya Seabass Asia (Lates calcarifer) di Keramba Jaring Apung di Pusat Pengembangan Budidaya Perairan Air Payau
[The Culture of Asian Seabass (Lates calcarifer) in Floating Net Cages at the Brackishwater Aquaculture Development Center]
Authors: Diniyyah Fadhliyatud
Published: December 2018

AbstractThis study was carried out to investigate the effect of Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) culture in floating net cages at the Brackishwater Aquaculture Development Center, Situbondo. Asian seabass were fed with commercial fish pellet (KPA) and fresh fish (trash fish) for 21 days. Seabass fed with trash fish and commercial fish pellet displayed the growth response to the average weight and length. The fish grew from an initial weight of 230g, 238g, and 244g in 21 days and the average length of seabass changed from 23 cm, 25 cm and 28 cm respectively. The fish were fed with 3-7% body weight of fish and the growth was monitored in 21 days. The results showed that trash fish can increase the significant growth response in Asian seabass. AbstrakStudi ini dilaksanakan untuk mengetahui pengaruh budidaya kakap putih Asia (Lates calcarifer) di keramba jarring apung di pusat pengembangan budidaya air payau, Situbondo. Kakap putih Asia diberi pelet ikan komersial (KPA) dengan ikan segar (limbah ikan) selama 21 hari. Kakap putih makan dengan limbah ikan dan pelet ikan komersial menunjukkan respon pertumbuhan rata-rata dari berat dan panjang. Pertumbuhan ikan dari berat awal 230g, 238g dan 244g pada hari ke- 21 dan terjadi perubahan panjang rata-rata kakap putih masing-masing menjadi 23 cm, 25 cm dan 28 cm. Ikan diberi makan dengan 3-7% dari berat badan ikan dan pertumbuhan diamati dalam 21 hari. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa limbah ikan dapat meningkatkan respon pertumbuhan yang signifikan di kakap putih Asia.
Pengaruh Dunaliella Salina Terhadap Polimorfonuklear Leukosit Ikan Kerapu Cantang (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus x Epinephelus lanceolatus) Yang Diinfeksi Viral Nervous Necrosis (VNN)
[Effect of Dunaliella Salina on Polymorphonuclear Leukocytes of Cantang Grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus x Epinephelus lanceolatus) Infected by Viral Nervous Necrosis (VNN)]
Authors: Yuwanita Rani , Buwono Nanik Retno , Eka Putra Handian Febyadi
Published: December 2018

AbstrakPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh  Dunaliella salina terhadap jumlah polimorfonuklear leukosit ikan kerapu cantang yang diinfeksi VNN. Seratus delapan puluh ekor larva ikan kerapu cantang ditebar ke dalam 15 buah bak bervolume 16 L dengan kepadatan 10 ekor/bak. Sebelum diinfeksi VNN, ikan kerapu cantang diberi perlakuan pakan pelet yang mengandung tepung Dunaliella dengan dosis: K- (0 gr/kg pakan), A(6 gr/kg pakan), B (12 gr/kg pakan) dan C (18 gr/kg pakan) secara adlibitum selama 10 hari. Setelah 10 hari perlakuan, ikan kerapu cantang diinfeksi VNN selama 96 jam melalui injeksi intramuscular dengan dosis 0,1 ml/ekor ikan. Berdasarkan hasil pengamatan, Dunaliella salina berpengaruh terhadap jumlah polimorfonuklear leukosit ikan kerapu cantang yang diinfeksi VNN dengan nilai tertinggi pada perlakuan C (18 gr/kg pakan) yang mempunyai nilai rerata leukosit 45,9 x 103 sel/ml, neutrofil: 4,24 x 103 sel/ml dan eusinofil 13,38 x 103 sel/ml.AbstractThis study aimed to determine the effect of Dunaliella salina on the number of Cantang grouper leukocyte polymorphonuclear infected with VNN. One hundred and eighty larvae of Cantang grouper fish were stocked into 15 pieces of 16 L volumes with a density of 10 fish/tube. Before being infected with VNN, the groupers were treated with pellet feed containing doses of Dunaliella flour with a dose: K- (0 g/kg feed), A (6 g/kg of feed), B (12 g/kg of feed) and C (18 g/kg of feed) in adlibitum for 10 days. After 10 days of treatment, Cantang groupers were infected with VNN for 96 hours through intramuscular injection with a dose of 0.1 ml/fish. Based on the observations, Dunaliella salina has an effect on the number of VNN infected grouper cucumber leukocyte polymorphonuclear with the highest value in treatment C (18 g/kg feed) which has a leukocyte mean value of 45.9 x 103 cells/ml, neutrophils: 4.24 x 103 cells/ml and eosinophils 13.38 x 103 cells/ml.
COMBINATION OF O BESITY AND MALNUTRITION AT A PATIENT WITH CHRONIC ALCOHOLIC PANCREATITIS (CASE REPORT)
Authors: Gavrilina N. S. , Ilchenko L. Yu. , Fedorov I. G. , Nikitin I. G.
Published: December 2018

The article contains a clinical description of the case of combination of such two opposite states as obesity and malnutrition in a patient with chronic pancreatitis. The patient was hospitalized with exacerbation of chronic pancreatitis and alcohol abuse. The examination revealed exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and mild malnutrition. The patient was prescribed enzyme replacement therapy and additional oral sip feeding with a positive effect. After 10 weeks of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency were stopped, but malnutrition remained and required a longer course of treatment. The relevance of this problem, the main difficulties of diagnosis were presented in the article. All patients need to measure anthropometric parameters, BMI, lymphocytes, total protein, albumin. Using only BMI leads to hypodiagnosis of malnutrition in patients with chronic pancreatitis.
Universal Quantum Computing and Three-Manifolds
Authors: Planat Michel , Aschheim Raymond , Amaral Marcelo , Irwin Klee
Published: December 2018

A single qubit may be represented on the Bloch sphere or similarly on the 3-sphere S3. Our goal is to dress this correspondence by converting the language of universal quantum computing (UQC) to that of 3-manifolds. A magic state and the Pauli group acting on it define a model of UQC as a positive operator-valued measure (POVM) that one recognizes to be a 3-manifold M3. More precisely, the d-dimensional POVMs defined from subgroups of finite index of the modular group PSL(2, Z) correspond to d-fold M3- coverings over the trefoil knot. In this paper, one also investigates quantum information on a few ‘universal’ knots and links such as the figure-of-eight knot, the Whitehead link and Borromean rings, making use of the catalog of platonic manifolds available on the software SnapPy. Further connections between POVMs based UQC and M3’s obtained from Dehn fillings are explored.
Assessment of the Indoor Air Quality of Akure, Nigeria
Authors: Abulude Francis , Samuel Dare Fagbayide , Akinnusotu Akinyinka , Makinde Olatunde Elubode , Elisha Jamok Jacob
Published: December 2018

Air quality has been a major concern throughout the world, Nigeria inclusive. The monitoring of air quality involves indoor and outdoor air quality. In this study, our concern was on indoor air quality. The aim of this study was to assess the air quality of residential homes (17), classrooms (3), hospitals (2), offices (5), Shops (2), and laboratories (5) in Akure, Nigeria in terms of formaldehyde (HCHO), total volatile organic compound (TVOC), Particulate matter (PM1.0; PM2.5, and PM10). A Multifunction Air Detector was used for the assessment using the manufacturers’ procedures and the locations were identified using a Mini GPS. The results revealed as follows: HCHO (0.001-0.030 mg/m3), TVOC (0.003-362 mg/m3), PM1.0 (004-014 µg/m3), PM2.5 (006-020 µg/m3), and PM10 (006-022 µg/m3). The results obtained were below the 24 h pollution recommended standards (0.1 mg/m3- HCHO; TVOC; 10-20 μ/m3 PM) of EPA and WHO. Statistically, there were correlations within the pollutants and weather. The Indoor air quality (IAQ) depicted the areas as ‘good,’ and toxicity potential (TP) were below unity. Although the locations looked safe, it is recommended that constant monitoring of the indoors should be ensured and proper ventilation should be provided.
Articial Intelligence and Brain Simulation Probes for Interstellar Expeditions
Authors: Özkural Eray
Published: December 2018

We introduce a mission design for an interstellar expedition to nearby earth-like exoplanets, which our analysis determined to be Tau Ceti and Gliese 667C, at the time of analysis in 2013. We review the research problems in propulsion and AGI that must be addressed to launch an AI guided interstellar probe within 100 years. We propose a new semi-autonomous agent approach for intelligent control of the spacecraft. We introduce the concept of a semi-autonomous agent as having built-in safety guarantees that constrain operation. An autonomous agent case study is presented formulating the objective, constraints, AGI implementation of the agent based on Solomono's Alpha architecture, and adding specicity. We discuss the training required to reach human-level and trans-sapient levels of intelligence which corresponds to an entire crew of AI experts specialized in elds such as astrophysics, astromechanics, astrobiology, quantum physics, computer science, molecular biology, and so forth. We project the feasibility of the human-level AI technology based on empirical ndings in neuroscience, and  nd that it should be feasible by 2030. We analyze Solomono's innity point hypothesis in light of Koomey's law about energy eciency of computing and nd that the trends in 2013 indicated an early singularity by 2035, which implies that we might encounter physical bottlenecks which will decelerate computing technology improvements signicantly. We recommend thus year 2040 for launching the probe by which date other required technologies will have been developed. We discuss the scenario of a virtual crew made of brain simulations, which is a bio-information based AI approach. We detail the subsystems of command and control, communication, scientic instrumentation, power, propulsion, navigation, and shielding. We propose a variation of ICAN-II/AIMStar propulsion which uses a positron source instead of anti-protons to initiate micro-fusion reactions. We combine the positron initiated fusion pulse propulsion scheme with a miniaturized version of the Daedelus fusion thruster obtaining high performance. We derive two mission proles one for fusion pulse propulsion, and the yet hypothetical Q-Thruster. Fusion thruster requires 132.2 years for Tau Ceti, and 233.2 years for Gliese 667C, while Q-Thruster takes only 42.3 years for Tau Ceti, and 62.5 years for Gliese 667C. We also discuss extended roles for intelligent interstellar probes such as self-reproduction via nanotechnology, refueling, construction, robotic bodies, and transmission of brain simulations.
3D Printing Applied to Tissue Engineered Blood Grafts
Authors: Wenger Raphael , Giraud Marie-Noëlle
Published: December 2018

Abstract: The broad clinical use of synthetic vascular grafts for vascular diseases is limited by their thrombogenicity and low patency rate, especially for vessels with a diameter inferior to 6 mm. Alternatives such as tissue-engineered blood grafts (TEBGs) have gained increasing interest. Among the different manufacturing approaches, 3D bioprinting presents numerous advantages and enables the fabrication of multi-scale, multi-material, and multicellular tissues with heterogeneous and functional intrinsic structures. Extrusion-, inkjet- and light-based 3D printing techniques have been used for the fabrication of TEBG out of hydrogels, cells, and/or solid polymers. This review discusses the state-of-the-art research on the use of 3D printing for TEBG with a focus on the biomaterials and deposition methods.
Deducing Earth’s Global Energy Flows from a Simple Greenhouse Model
Authors: Zagoni Miklos
Published: December 2018

Earth atmosphere is almost opaque in the infrared: about 374 W/m2 is absorbed by the atmosphere out of 396 W/m2 surface upward longwave radiation, and only about 22 W/m2 leaves the system unabsorbed in the atmospheric window. This makes rise to the idea to approximate the annual global mean energy flow system from a simple idealized greenhouse model, where the surface is surrounded by a single-layer shortwave (SW) transparent, longwave (LW) opaque, non-turbulent atmosphere. The energy flows in this geometry can be described by elementary arithmetic relationships. Starting from this model, the realistic Earth’s atmosphere can be achieved by introducing partial atmospheric SW opacity, partial atmospheric LW transparency and turbulent fluxes during the course of the deduction. The resulted global mean energy flow system is then compared to several data sets such as satellite observations from the CERES mission; estimates using direct surface observations and climate models; global energy and water cycle assessments; and independent detailed clear-sky radiative transfer computations. We find that the deduction from this idealized model approximates the real values in Earth energy budget with reasonable accuracy: the deduced fluxes and the observed ones are consistent within the acknowledged error of observations; while fundamental features of the initial geometry like special ratios and definite relationships between the fluxes are preserved.
Some Second-Order Tensor Calculus Identities and Applications in Continuum Mechanics
Authors: Sun Bohua
Published: December 2018

To extend the calculation power of tensor analysis, we introduce four new definition of tensor calculations. Some useful tensor identities have been proved. We demonstrate the application of the tensor identities in continuum mechanics: momentum conservation law and deformation superposition.
Pengaruh Penerapan Tarif Tunggal Pajak Penghasilan Badan terhadap Indikasi Penggelapan Pajak
Authors: Putra Bramastia Candra , Qibthiyyah Riatu Mariatul
Published: December 2018

This paper investigates the dierence eects of progressive rate and single rate implementation on corporate income tax to tax evasion indication. Using firm level data of tax audit results as a measure of tax evasion indication for six years observations. The empirical results from the sample data show that the implementation of single rate on corporate income tax reduces the tax evasion indication. In addition, the results show that the higher the marginal income tax rate, the higher the tax evasion indication. ======================== Paper ini menginvestigasi perbedaan pengaruh penerapan tarif pajak progresif dan tarif pajak tunggal pada Pajak Penghasilan (PPh) Badan terhadap indikasi penggelapan pajak. Paper ini menggunakan data hasil pemeriksaan pajak pada level perusahaan sebagai ukuran indikasi penggelapan pajak selama enam tahun observasi. Hasil studi empiris pada sampel data menunjukkan bahwa penerapan tarif pajak tunggal pada PPh Badan mengurangi tingkat indikasi penggelapan pajak. Selain itu, semakin tinggi tarif pajak penghasilan cenderung menstimulasi peningkatan indikasi penggelapan pajak.
Indeterminação dos direitos sociais e os desafios à efetividade: uma visão empírica
Authors: Lírio do Valle Vanice Regina , Do Espírito Santo de Oliveira Dias Paula
Published: December 2018

Pensar em provimento jurisdicional dentro do contexto de justiça corretiva remete à ideia da busca do status quo. Todavia, a premissa tradicional de que um provimento jurisdicional é resultado de uma aplicação objetiva e predeterminada pelo conteúdo do próprio direito se mostra artificial no campo dos direitos socioeconômicos, ante o escopo maior de efetividade. Esse artigo tem por objetivo explicar a indeterminação do conteúdo dos direitos socioeconômicos, componente que dá causa a uma adjudicação, que não se constitui mera aplicação dedutiva e causal, tudo à luz de dados empíricos provenientes do perfil de litigiosidade no Município do Rio de Janeiro, no campo do direito à moradia. Com base em uma pesquisa empírica de cariz quantitativo e em pesquisa bibliográfica, são desenvolvidas inferências e conclusões a partir da aplicação do método crítico-dialético. A admissão da indeterminação do conteúdo dos direitos socioeconômicos e da relação não dedutiva entre direito e resposta jurisdicional revela a transferência de escolhas conteudísticas que são próprias do campo da política ao Judiciário e a existência de intervenção subjetiva do julgador na definição de seu conteúdo. A conclusão é o imperativo não só de observância de especial ônus argumentativo, mas da compreensão dos direitos socioeconômicos contextualizado ao seu nível de concretização social.
Yield Components of Some Sesame Mutant Populations Induced by Gamma Irradiation
Authors: Aristya Vina Eka , Taryono Taryono , Wulandari Rani Agustina
Published: December 2018

Sesame is an producing seed whose oil is commercially needed. Breeding attempts to improve the productivity of sesame and yield components are induction of gamma ray irradiation mutations (Co-60). This study was aimed to identify effects of induced mutation by gamma rays irradiation in quantitative characteristics and yield of sesame in M4 generation originated from local cultivars. Two types of sesame (black and white) are irradiated with eight doses (100-800 Gy) of Co-60. The result showed a high variation in almost all morphological characters and modified the character of stem height from base to first branch, number of capsules per plant, biomass yield per plant, and seed yield per plant. Sesame irradiated with 600 Gy Co-60 doses has a beneficial effect on the number of capsules (black:120.23; white: 255.23, respectively) and the weight of 1000 seeds (black:3.63 g; white: 4.55 g, respectively). Genotypic Coefficient of Variation in M4 generation were recorded for high value for characters number of primary branches (30.16%), stem height from base to the first branch (30.96%), stem height from base to first capsule (14.82%), number of secondary branches (53.64%), number of nodes to first flower (72.66%), number of capsules/plant (44.90%), biomass yield/plant (28.37%), and seed yield/plant (36.68%). Genetic variability of plant population is very important for plant breeding program and to sustain level of high productivity.
Innovative character of modernization of managerial information system of the enterprise
Authors: Hrynko Pavlo , Beliavceva Viktoria
Published: December 2018

Important scientific and practical task concerning identifying the trends of innovation development of the managerial information system of the enterprise is solved and presenting of new concept modernization of managerial information system of the enterprise is done. The development of the managerial information system of the enterprise is described by the influence of innovative changes on processes with managerial information. This is carried out in accordance with the conditions and factors of the enterprise development with the organization of parameters of influence and the development of necessary measures to avoid disintegration of information processing processes, thus increasing the efficiency of information to exercise a guiding influence on processes of management. The concept of achieving information equilibrium in the process of making managerial decisions is substantiated that characterizes a more qualitative level of information provision of decision-making. The methodical principles of organization of the informational basis for the formation of variants of managerial decisions are developed, the effectiveness of which is determined by qualitative and quantitative parameters of managerial information. Information provision of managing an enterprise is formed through the architecture, which includes processes and schemes of organization, structuring, formalization, maintenance and information movement in the managerial system and beyond.
Recent advances in bio-P modelling – a new approach verified by full-scale observations
Authors: Varga Erika , Hauduc Hélène , Barnard James , Dunlap Patrick , Jimenez Jose , Menniti Adrienne , Schauer Peter , Lopez Vazquez Carlos M. , Gu April Z. , Sperandio Mathieu , Takács Imre
Published: December 2018

This paper summarizes recent developments in biological phosphorus removal modelling, with special attention to side-stream enhanced biological phosphorus removal (S2EBPR) systems on which previous models proved to be ineffective without case-by-case parameter adjustments. Through the research and experience of experts and practitioners, a new bio-kinetic model was developed including an additional group of biomass (glycogen accumulating organisms – GAOs) and new processes (such as aerobic and anoxic maintenance for PAO and GAO; enhanced denitrification processes; fermentation by PAOs which – along with PAO selection – is driven by oxidation-reduction potential (ORP)). This model successfully described various conditions in laboratory measurements and full plant data. The calibration data set is provided by Clean Water Services from Rock Creek Facility (Hillsboro, OR) including two parallel trains: conventional A2O and Westbank configurations, allowing the model to be verified on conventional and side-stream EBPR systems as well.
Efficient Synthesis of Diacetoxyiodoarenes via Intramolecular Rearrangement
Authors: Zhou De-Jun , Zhai Yang-Yang , Meng Ling-Pu , Song Wei-Wei , Liu Xiao , Yin Shu-Qiang
Published: December 2018

This study introduces a concise and efficient method for preparing diacetoxyiodoarenes
from the corresponding iodoarenes. In the presence of acetic anhydride, iodoarenes were oxidized to
diacetoxyiodoarenes by sodium perborate in acetic acid under argon protection at 55°C in ideal yields.
Through this method, 10 diacetoxyiodoarenes were obtained smoothly.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of New Piperazine Substituted 3, 5-Diarylisoxazolines
Authors: Gao Hui , Liu Bei , Zhu Ping , Zhang Li-Jun , Wan Chun-Ping , Rao Gao-Xiong , Mao Ze-Wei
Published: December 2018

Aim and Objective:

Isoxazolines are an important class of nitrogen and oxygen-containing heterocycles,
which have gained much importance as the potential biological agents. In order to study structureactivity
relationships of isoxazolines, this work has been conducted.

Materials and Methods:

A series of new piperazine substituted 3, 5-diarylisoxazoline derivatives (6-31) were
designed and synthesized, and in vitro anti-inflammatory activity in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated
RAW-264.7 macrophages and anticancer effect against a panel of human tumor cell lines (Hela, A549 and
SGC7901) by MTT assay were evaluated.

Results:

The substituents of the NH group of piperazine ring had an obvious influence on biological activities.
Especially, compounds 5, 7, 8, 10, 11, 13 and 27-showed good inhibitory effect on the generation of NO compared
to dexamethasone. Furthermore, derivatives 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13 and 26 were found to be potential selectively
anticancer activity on human tumor cell lines, which displayed better cytotoxic activity to positive control 5-
FU.

Conclusion:

Piperazine substituted 3, 5-diarylisoxazoline derivatives could be considered as new antiinflammatory
and anticancer agents.
A Review of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Predisposing Genes
Authors: Yahaya Tajudeen O. , Salisu Titilola F.
Published: December 2018

Introduction:

Scientists are considering the possibility of treating diabetes mellitus (DM) using a personalized approach in which various forms of the diseases will be treated based on the causal gene and its pathogenesis. To this end, scientists have identified mutations in certain genes as probable causes of Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) with diverse mechanisms.

Aim:

This review was aimed at articulating already identified T2DM genes with their mechanisms of action and phenotypic presentations for the awareness of all stakeholders.

Method:

Method: The Google search engine was used to retrieve relevant information on the subject from reliable academic databases such as PubMed, Medline, and Google Scholar, among others.

Results:

At least seventy (70) genes are currently being suspected in the biogenesis of T2DM. However, mutations in, or variants of KCNJ11, PPARG, HNF1B and WFS1 genes, are the most suspected and reported in the pathogenesis of the disease. Mutations in these genes can cause disruption of insulin biosynthesis through the destruction of pancreatic beta cells, change of beta cell morphology, destruction of insulin receptors, among others. These cellular events may lead to insulin resistance and hyperglycemia and, along with environmental triggers such as obesity and overweight, culminate in T2DM. It was observed that each identified gene has its distinct mechanism by which it interacts with other genes and environmental factors to cause T2DM.

Conclusion:

Healthcare providers are advised to formulate T2DM drugs or treatment by targeting the causal genes along with their mechanisms.
A Review on Cornea Imaging and Processing Techniques
Authors: Hezekiah James Deva Koresh , Chacko Shanty
Published: December 2018

Background:

Measuring cornea thickness is an essential parameter for patients undergoing
refractive Laser-Assisted in SItu Keratomileusis (LASIK) surgeries.

Discussion:

This paper describes about the various available imaging and non-imaging methods
for identifying cornea thickness and explores the most optimal method for measuring it. Along
with the thickness measurement, layer segmentation in the cornea is also an essential parameter for
diagnosing and treating eye-related disease and problems. The evaluation supports surgical planning
and estimation of the corneal health. After surgery, the thickness estimation and layer segmentation
are also necessary for identifying the layer surface disorders.

Conclusion:

Hence the paper reviews the available image processing techniques for processing the
corneal image for thickness measurement and layer segmentation.
Pharmacokinetic Aspects of Carbon Nanotubes: Improving Outcomes of Functionalization
Authors: Entezar-Almahdi Elaheh , Morowvat Mohammad Hossein
Published: December 2018

Background:

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are allotropes of carbon with a cylindrical nanostructure.
Thanks to their electrical, mechanical and optical properties, they have been widely used for
different pharmaceutical, biological and biomedical applications. To understand the biofate of the
CNTs in the body, their pharmacokinetic properties should be revealed appropriately.

Objective:

To review the available literature, regarding the different pharmacokinetic properties including
absorption, distribution, metabolism and elimination of the functionalized CNTs.

Results:

Surface coating or functionalizing the CNTs has huge effects on their pharmacokinetics,
ADME properties and also their biodistribution profile. During the metabolism, CNTs could be destroyed
directly or their surface functional groups might be removed. Both biliary and renal pathways
are known for CNTs elimination.

Conclusion:

Additional optimization on the CNTs formulation is required to enhance their absorption
and bioavailability. Besides, regarding the increased scientific attention towards the CNTs toxicity,
it could be suggested that determining the bioavailability of CNTs is a critical parameter to determine
the CNTs safety.