bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O Sistema de Avaliação Externa dos Padrões de Qualidade da Educação Superior no Brasil: considerações sobre os indicadores
Authors: Marchelli Paulo Sérgio
Published: March 2016

<span style="font: 13px/normal verdana, arial; color: #000000; text-transform: none; text-indent: 0px; letter-spacing: normal; word-spacing: 0px; float: none; display: inline !important; white-space: normal; background-color: #ffffff;">Este trabalho aborda o Sistema Nacional de Avaliação da Educação Superior (Sinaes), e analisa as diretrizes conceituais e o instrumento metodológico utilizados para avaliação externa. O método de análise corresponde ao estabelecimento de comparações entre o sistema adotado pelo Brasil e por outros países cujos padrões de qualidade em educação superior são internacionalmente reconhecidos. É enfocada a estrutura da matriz das dimensões de avaliação externa do Sinaes, detalhando-se os critérios utilizados para a atribuição de conceitos aos indicadores da Titulação, Regime de Trabalho e Publicações do Corpo Docente. Como principal conclusão, o estudo apresenta as razões pelas quais os referidos critérios precisam ser reconsiderados, mostrando seus pontos falhos e apontando caminhos para seu aperfeiçoamento.
THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF CONFLICTS MANAGEMENT: UMA ANÁLISE DA PRODUÇÃO ACADÊMICA À LUZ DA BIBLIOMETRIA DE 2003 A 2012
Authors: Corrêa Rosany , Ruiz Mauro Silva , Ribeiro Henrique César Melo
Published: March 2016

Este estudo teve como objetivo, mapear o perfil e o crescimento do tema conflitos à luz do periódico The International Journal of Conflicts Management, entre 2003 e 2012. Esta pesquisa apoiou-se em técnicas bibliométricas, utilizou-se de estatística descritiva, nos 180 artigos identificados. Os principais resultados foram: predominância de autoria com dois e três pesquisadores; Posthuma foi o autor mais profícuo. A Universidade do Texas, foi a IES que mais publicou artigos e a que teve maior centralidade de grau. E os temas mais evidenciados em 10 anos de publicação foram conflitos e gestão de conflitos.
L’esperienza italo-brasiliana nell'uso della mediazione in risposta alla crisi del monopolio statale di soluzione di conflitti e la garanzia di acceso alla giustizia
Authors: Pinho Humberto Dalla Bernadina de , Paumgartten Michele Pedrosa
Published: March 2016

L’obiettivo di quest’articolo è quello di esaminare il trattamento del conflitto in un momento in cui la crisi dello Stato-giurisdizione riguarda vari paesi i cui Tribunali operano al di lá dei loro limiti. Di fronte a questo quadro, la ricerca di alternative per la soluzione di conflitti che soddisfino il binomio necessità-utilità dell’accesso alla giustizia, si dimostra evidente e necessaria per la sicurezza giuridica. Tuttavia la ricerca di questa effettività deve avvenire con cautela, affinché nell’ansia di risolvere la crisi dello Stato-giurisdizione non si vengano a creare ostacoli ancor più gravi all’accesso alla giustizia, come l’adozione di un sistema di mediazione obbligatoria o la processualizzazione della mediazione, che ne snaturerebbe l’essenza.
Depressão acometida ao trabalhador agroindustriário: restrição à eficácia do direito fundamental social ao trabalho digno
Authors: Goldschmidt Rodrigo , Ferraz Diego
Published: March 2016

A patologia depressão possui em sua gênese uma relação estreita com o trabalho realizado nas agroindústrias. Estas, ao mesmo tempo em que contribuem para o crescimento econômico do país, através do seu modelo de produção denominado toyotismo colaboram para a degeneração das relações trabalhistas. Muito embora seja assegurado o direito fundamental do trabalhador em auferir um trabalho digno, a depressão nas relações laborais acaba por restringir e tornar ineficaz dito direito, sendo este o escopo deste trabalho.
Identificação e proibição do bullying escolar no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro: perspectiva de violação dos direitos humanos de crianças e adolescentes
Authors: Araujo Jailton Macena , Assis Elma Moreira de
Published: March 2016

O termo bullying diz respeito às ações que tiranizam, ameaçam, oprimem, amedrontam e intimidam, consistindo em uma forma de agressão física e/ou moral contra determinada pessoa ou grupo minoritário, sendo caracterizada pelo caráter sistemático, repetitivo e violador que possui. Identificar os agentes dessa forma de violência não é tarefa fácil, isso porque muitas vezes a vítima permanece calada em face das agressões sofridas. Provavelmente, o fenômeno bullying sempre existiu, entretanto, apenas atualmente, ele tem sido identificado e discutido em vários países do mundo. O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o modo de exteriorização do bullying, principalmente no ambiente escolar, e sua consequência no mundo jurídico. A questão central que se pautou este trabalho foi o estudo sobre o bullying e suas formas de manifestação, enfatizando o tratamento jurídico conferido ao tema, bem como identificando qual seria o seu enquadramento legal mais justo e sua punição. Utilizando como procedimento metodológico a pesquisa bibliográfica, procurou-se identificar o problema do bullying na sociedade moderna, enfatizando suas formas e consequências, bem como analisar a proibição do bullying no ordenamento jurídico brasileiro, atentando para as previsões legais que combatem sua prática e a responsabilidade jurídica que advém para os autores dessa forma de violência.
Extensão do foro por prerrogativa de função às ações de improbidade administrativa: limites constitucionais para o redimensionamento da competência originária dos tribunais.
Authors: Coura Alexandre De Castro , Miranda Gustavo Senna
Published: March 2016

A presente pesquisa analisa a (in)constitucionalidade da Emenda nº 85/2012, que alterou a Constituição do Estado do Espírito Santo, ampliou a competência originária do tribunal de justiça e estendeu o foro especial por prerrogativa de função às ações de improbidade administrativa.
Análise da redução da maioridade penal à luz do artigo 228 da Constituição Federal de 1988
Authors: Queiroz Pessôa Carlos Eduardo , Souza Ramos Queiroz Pessoa Yldry
Published: March 2016

O presente estudo objetiva analisar a redução da maioridade penal como política criminal para diminuição da criminalidade juvenil. Esta possibilidade é sempre levantada pela opinião pública quando crimes violentos são praticados por jovens menores de dezoito anos. A influência da mídia contribui para a construção do clamor da sociedade, voltando-se para a punibilidade como única alternativa para reprimir a violência infanto-juvenil. Assim, pretende-se rebaixar o limite de idade penal fixada em dezoito anos, a fim de submeter os menores às penalidades da legislação comum. No entanto, a menoridade penal trata-se de uma garantia fundamental atribuída aos inimputáveis, que se consubstancia ao princípio da dignidade da pessoa humana, configurando-se como cláusula pétrea, de acordo com o artigo 60, §4º, inciso IV. Não sendo, portanto, passível de Emenda Constitucional restritiva a proteção conferida aos indivíduos em processo de desenvolvimento psíquico.
Expectativas acerca do acesso à justiça às vítimas de violência doméstica contra a mulher: os juizados de violência doméstica e familiar contra a mulher na efetivação da Lei 11.340/2006 (“Maria da Penha”)
Authors: Calil Mário Lúcio Garcez
Published: March 2016

A Lei 11.340 criou os Juizados de Violência Doméstica e Familiar contra a Mulher. Há, porém, o risco de que tais órgãos enfrentem os mesmos problemas identificados na atuação dos Juizados Especiais. O objetivo deste trabalho é discutir a aplicação da Lei 9.099/95 à violência de gênero e estudar as expectativas acerca dos Juizados de Violência Doméstica, por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica e jurisprudencial. Justifica-se o trabalho, pois a violência doméstica é um problema social grave. Conclui-se que a atuação dos Juizados de Violência deve ocorrer de forma diversa do processo comum, levando em conta a natureza social do fenômeno.
Editorial
Authors: Cunha Ricarlos Almagro Vitoriano
Published: March 2016

Editorial
Boa-fé: condicionante da eficácia nas relações contratuais
Authors: Mendonça Saulo Bichara
Published: March 2016

Considera-se neste ensaio o contrato a partir da forma como a vontade se manifesta na consubstanciação das vontades através do referido instrumento jurídico, não se propondo a esmiuçar as características de cada contrato em espécie. Neste diapasão, observa-se a função social do contrato, perquirida pelos estudiosos e profissionais do direito, com o escopo de obter melhor resultado possível nas relações jurídicas negociais, notoriamente influenciadas pela economia, o que permite a busca da eficácia nos resultados almejados, na expectativa de que sejam mais próximos possíveis do ótimo de Pareto.
A usucapião especial urbana coletiva como instrumento de regularização fundiária de áreas favelizadas: estudo de caso em Ribeirão Preto
Authors: Machado Gustavo Campoli , Trentini Flavia
Published: March 2016

O presente trabalho pretende estudar os mecanismos jurídicos abarcados pelo Estatuto da Cidade - Lei nº 10.257/01, para a regularização fundiária das áreas faveladas presentes na cidade de Ribeirão Preto - SP. Dentre os diversos instrumentos que podem ser utilizados como forma de se solucionar, ou pelo menos, atenuar a crise habitacional instalada no país desde a década de 80, enforcar-se-á a usucapião coletiva. As análises terão como premissa a função social da posse e da propriedade, as quais correlacionam-se com a Lei de Habitação Nacional – Lei no. 11.888/08 e com o Estatuto da Cidade. Para tanto, proceder-se-á ao estudo de caso de Ribeirão Preto, adotando como metodologia a análise jurisprudencial. O presente trabalho versará inicialmente sobre a função social da propriedade e da posse, de forma a delinear a sua esfera de validade no ordenamento nacional e sua aplicabilidade no cenário dos assentamentos irregulares. Em seguida, dispor-se-á sobre a usucapião coletiva como mecanismo de regularização fundiária, apontando os óbices que impedem sua eficácia no contexto de áreas favelizadas, a destacar os assentamentos da cidade de Ribeirão Preto.
A discriminação dos trabalhadores em razão da deficiência na jurisprudência do TJUE: breve análise dos casos Chacón Navas, Jette Ring, Z. e Coleman Workers disability discrimination in the jurisprudence of the ECJ: brief analysis of the Chacón Navas...
Authors: Moreira Teresa Coelho
Published: March 2016

A discriminação em razão da deficiência é um conceito relativamente novo. De facto, as questões relacionadas com a deficiência começaram por ser tratadas como um tema relacionado com a segurança social, a saúde ou a tutela. A proteção conferida aos trabalhadores portadores de deficiência encontra-se prevista a nível internacional, em instrumentos jurídicos ratificados pelo Estado Brasileiro, como a Convenção n.º 159 da OIT relativa à readaptação profissional e emprego de pessoas portadoras de deficiência, adotada em 1983, em articulação com a Recomendação n.º 168. De realçar, ainda, pela sua relevância, a Convenção das Nações Unidas sobre os Direitos das Pessoas com Deficiência, adotada em 2006. A implicação de ter ratificado esta Convenção para a UE é de que ela passa a fazer parte das bases do direito universal de igualdade e deve ser tida em atenção em casos de discriminação. Atendendo a esta base, o próprio TJUE tem de respeitar a Convenção e poderá recorrer aos princípios vertidos na mesma para interpretar os arts. 21.º e 26.º da Carta dos Direitos Fundamentais da União Europeia, como já aconteceu em vários casos recentes do Tribunal – acórdão Jette Ring, de 11 de abril de 2013 – C- 335/11 e C‑337/11, assim como  mais recentemente na Opinião do Advogado-Geral no caso Z contra A Government Department and the Board of Management of a Community School, processo C-363/12, de 26 de setembro de 2013.
GŁÓWNE ELEMENTY METODYCZNE PROCESU PRZYGOTOWYWANIA DANYCH SPRAWOZDAWCZYCH Z ZAKRESU PODATKÓW ZWIĄZANYCH ZE ŚRODOWISKIEM W ŚWIETLE NOWYCH REGULACJI PRAWNYCH UNII EUROPEJSKIEJ
Authors: Małecki Piotr Paweł
Published: March 2016

Artykuł poświęcony jest problemom metodycznym dotyczącym procesu przygotowywania danych sprawozdawczych z zakresu podatków związanych ze środowiskiem, obowiązujących w Polsce. Konieczność tworzenia tej sprawozdawczości wynika z nowych regulacji prawnych Unii Europejskiej, które nakładają na kraje członkowskie obowiązek przekazywania odpowiednio przygotowanych danych do Eurostatu. W artykule podjęto próbę rozstrzygnięcia pewnych dylematów metodycznych z tym związanych. W pierwszym rzędzie chodziło o ustalenie listy podatków związanych ze środowiskiem obowiązujących w Polsce, zgodnie z przyjętą definicją Eurostatu. Pozostałe problemy metodyczne, podjęte w artykule, dotyczyły przyporządkowania poszczególnych zidentyfikowanych podatków związanych ze środowiskiem do jednej z czterech grup rodzajowych (energia, transport, zanieczyszczenia środowiska i zasoby naturalne), a następnie – odniesienia ich do wydzielonych grup działalności gospodarczych w Unii Europejskiej (zgodnie z klasyfikacją NACE Rev. 2). Takie przyporządkowanie wymagane jest przez nowe regulacje unijne. W artykule dokonano też analizy obowiązującej, w świetle najnowszej interpretacji Eurostatu, definicji podatków (i opłat) ekologicznych określanych jednolicie jako „podatki związane ze środowiskiem”. Ponadto zaprezentowano prawne uwarunkowania wiążące się z całym procesem tworzenia sprawozdawczości statystycznej z zakresu tych podatków.
Enhancing Due Diligence Examination Of The Organisational Culture Of A Merger And Acquisition Target
Authors: Jones Grant
Published: March 2016

A set of indicators are derived from elements of theory on organisational culture, which will assist managers to make judgements about the internal culture of a potential target for merger or takeover.
Validating Auditors Assumptions: A Measure of the Quality of Performance
Authors: Hollingsworth Beverley A.
Published: March 2016

This study extends prior study to include formal training as an additional component of experience. Three research hypotheses tested the quality of auditor performance. Results showed formal training as significant. The sample consisted of 96 auditors with approximately two to nineteen years of audit and accounting experience. Previous work on auditors’ experience and judgment produced mixed results. Those results do not consistently show that experience leads to better judgments. However, such work does not investigate the second component of experience included in this study. The study did not find on-the-job training to be effectively related to auditors’ performance.
Risks Of Organization's Value Chain
Authors: Zemke Jerzy
Published: March 2016

An organization’s management specifies planned value of the chain of activities. The outcome is affected by unpredictable, random factors, the source of which can be found both in the organization’s environment and inside it. The effect of this influence can be positive or negative which means that the chain value may be higher or lower than planned. This is a result of the effect of activities-related risks on added value generated in the organization’s functional areas.
Optimization Problems And Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Zurada Jozef
Published: March 2016

This paper presents an application of genetic algorithms (GAs) to a well-known traveling salesman problem (TSP) which is a challenging optimization task. Using the techniques of selection, crossover, and mutation borrowed from the Darwin’s evolution theory, GAs were able to find the optimal solution after generating only 24 populations of solutions instead of exploring more than a million possible solutions.
Prevalencia de parásitos intestinales en niños de diferentes niveles de educación del distrito de San Marcos, Ancash, Perú.
Authors: Jacinto Eleuterio , Aponte Edwin , Arrunátegui-Correa Víctor
Published: March 2016

Objetivo: Investigar la prevalencia de parasitosis intestinal en estudiantes del Distrito de San Marcos, en el departamento de Ancash, Perú. Material y métodos: Se analizaron en total 1303 muestras de heces de niños de nivel inicial, primario y secundario, mediante examen directo. Resultados: Se encontró uno o más parásitos intestinales en 65,0% de los estudiantes. De las 845 muestras positivas para parásitos, se encontró un parasito en 82,0% dos en18,0% predominando los protozoarios sobre los helmintos. Los enteroparásitos patógenos encontrados según su frecuencia fueron: Giardia lamblia 23,7%, Ascaris lumbricoides 16,9% e Hymenolepis nana 9,6%. La frecuencia del enteroparásito no patógeno Entamoeba coli fue 31,8%. Conclusiones: Existe un alto índice de parasitismo en la población rural de la sierra de Ancash, lo que estaría en relación con las deficientes condiciones de saneamiento ambiental en esta zona, por lo que es necesario que en los colegios de la zona, se dé educación sobre higiene personal y además, mejorar las condiciones de saneamiento.
An autochthonous case of Zika due to possible sexual transmission, Florence, Italy, 2014
Authors: Venturi Giulietta , Zammarchi Lorenzo , Fortuna Claudia , Remoli Maria Elena , Benedetti Eleonora , Fiorentini Cristiano , Trotta Michele , Rizzo Caterina , Mantella Antonia , Rezza Giovanni , Bartoloni Alessandro
Published: March 2016

We report a case of Zika virus infection imported in Florence, Italy ex-Thailand, leading to a secondary autochthonous case, probably through sexual transmission. The two cases occurred in May 2014 but were retrospectively diagnosed in 2016 on the basis of serological tests (plaque reduction neutralisation) performed on stored serum samples. Our report provides further evidence that sexual transmission of Zika virus is possible.
Mortality and Causes of Death in Patients with Sporadic Inclusion Body Myositis: Survey Study Based on the Clinical Experience of Specialists in Australia, Europe and the USA
Authors: Price Mark A. , Barghout Victoria , Benveniste Olivier , Christopher-Stine Lisa , Corbett Alastair , de Visser Marianne , Hilton-Jones David , Kissel John T. , Lloyd Thomas E. , Lundberg Ingrid E. , Mastaglia Francis , Mozaffar Tahseen , Needham Merrilee , Schmidt Jens , Sivakumar Kumaraswamy , DeMuro Carla , Tseng Brian S.
Published: March 2016

Background: There is a paucity of data on mortality and causes of death (CoDs) in patients with sporadic inclusion body myositis (sIBM), a rare, progressive, degenerative, inflammatory myopathy that typically affects those aged over 50 years.

Objective: Based on patient records and expertise of clinical specialists, this study used questionnaires to evaluate physicians’ views on clinical characteristics of sIBM that may impact on premature mortality and CoDs in these patients.

Methods: Thirteen physicians from seven countries completed two questionnaires online between December 20, 2012 and January 15, 2013. Responses to the first questionnaire were collated and presented in the second questionnaire to seek elaboration and identify consensus.

Results: All 13 physicians completed both questionnaires, providing responses based on 585 living and 149 deceased patients under their care. Patients were reported to have experienced dysphagia (60.2%) and injurious falls (44.3%) during their disease. Over half of physicians reported that a subset of their patients with sIBM had a shortened lifespan (8/13), and agreed that bulbar dysfunction/dysphagia/oropharyngeal involvement (12/13), early-onset disease (8/13), severe symptoms (8/13), and falls (7/13) impacted lifespan. Factors related to sIBM were reported as CoDs in 40% of deceased patients. Oropharyngeal muscle dysfunction was ranked as the leading feature of sIBM that could contribute to death. The risk of premature mortality was higher than the age-matched comparison population.

Conclusions: In the absence of data from traditional sources, this study suggests that features of sIBM may contribute to premature mortality and may be used to inform future studies.
Iterative image reconstruction using non-local means with total variation from insufficient projection data
Authors: Ertas Metin , Yildirim Isa , Kamasak Mustafa , Akan Aydin
Published: March 2016

In this work, algebraic reconstruction technique (ART) is extended by using non-local means (NLM) and total variation (TV) for reduction of artifacts that are due to insufficient projection data. TV and NLM algorithms use different image models and their application in tandem becomes a powerful denoising method that reduces erroneous variations in the image while preserving edges and details. Simulations were performed on a widely used 2D Shepp-Logan phantom to demonstrate performance of the introduced method (ART+TV) NLM and compare it to TV based ART (ART+TV) and ART. The results indicate that (ART+TV) NLM achieves better reconstructions compared to (ART+TV) and ART.
A Lossless hybrid wavelet-fractal compression for welding radiographic images
Authors: Mekhalfa Faiza , Avanaki Mohammad R. N. , Berkani Daoud
Published: March 2016

In this work a lossless wavelet-fractal image coder is proposed. The process starts by compressing and decompressing the original image using wavelet transformation and fractal coding algorithm. The decompressed image is removed from the original one to obtain a residual image which is coded by using Huffman algorithm. Simulation results show that with the proposed scheme, we achieve an infinite peak signal to noise ratio (PSNR) with higher compression ratio compared to typical lossless method. Moreover, the use of wavelet transform speeds up the fractal compression algorithm by reducing the size of the domain pool. The compression results of several welding radiographic images using the proposed scheme are evaluated quantitatively and compared with the results of Huffman coding algorithm.
Sinogram-based attenuation correction in PET/CT
Authors: Yang Qingsong , Lu Yang , Xi Yan , Cong Wenxiang , Kalra Mannudeep , Wang Ge
Published: March 2016

In a typical positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) system, the attenuation correction is necessary for PET image reconstruction, which involves a transformation from the CT Hounsfield units (HU) to its linear attenuation coefficient (LAC) at 511 keV. This transformation is usually aided by an empirical bilinear function, followed by the forward projection of the transformed attenuation image. In this paper, we propose a direct method that calculates attenuation factors from CT projections, without using a reconstructed CT image. In this method, the human body is considered as a mixture of three distinct components: air, water and bone. Then, we estimate the proportions of these three components along each x-ray path and restore the attenuation factor at 511 keV with the known water and bone LACs. Our numerical results show that the proposed method produces as accurate estimation as the conventional HU mapping method.
Breast tomosynthesis using the multiple projection algorithm adapted for stationary detectors
Authors: Malliori A. , Bliznakova K. , Bliznakov Z. , Cockmartin L. , Bosmans H. , Pallikarakis N.
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study is to investigate the validity of using the Multiple Projection Algorithm (MPA) for Breast Tomosynthesis (BT) using real projection images acquired with phantoms at a clinical setting.

METHODS:

The CIRS-BR3D phantom with ranging thicknesses between 3 cm and 6 cm was used for all image quality evaluations. Five sets of measurements were acquired, each comprised of a 2D mammographic image followed by a set of 25 projections within an arc length of 50°. A reconstruction algorithm based on the MPA was adapted for partial isocentric rotation using a stationary detector. For reference purposes, a Back Projection (BP) algorithm was also developed for this geometry. The performance of the algorithms was evaluated, in combination with pre-filtering of the projections, in comparative studies that involved also a comparison between tomosynthesis slices and 2D mammograms.

RESULTS:

Evaluation of tomosynthesis slices reconstructed with BP and MPA showed close performance for the two algorithms with no considerable differences in feature detection, size and appearance of the background tissue with the MPA running faster the overall process. Pre-filtering of the projections, led to better BT images compared to non-filtering. Increased thickness resulted in limited detection of the features of interest, especially the smaller sized ones. In these cases, the filtered BT slices allowed improved visualization due to removed superimposed tissue compared to the 2D images. The different breast-like slab arrangements in phantoms of the same thickness demonstrated a slight influence on the quality of reconstructed features.

CONCLUSIONS:

The MPA which had been applied previously to reconstruct tomograms from projections acquired at synchrotron facilities, is a time efficient algorithm, and is fully compliant with and can be successfully used in BT clinical systems. Compared to 2D mammography, BT shows advantage in visualizing features of small size and for increased phantom thickness or features within a dense background with superimposed structures.
Geometrical force constraint method for vessel and x-ray angiogram simulation
Authors: Song Shuang , Yang Jian , Fan Jingfan , Cong Weijian , Ai Danni , Zhao Yitian , Wang Yongtian
Published: March 2016

This study proposes a novel geometrical force constraint method for 3-D vasculature modeling and angiographic image simulation. For this method, space filling force, gravitational force, and topological preserving force are proposed and combined for the optimization of the topology of the vascular structure. The surface covering force and surface adhesion force are constructed to drive the growth of the vasculature on any surface. According to the combination effects of the topological and surface adhering forces, a realistic vasculature can be effectively simulated on any surface. The image projection of the generated 3-D vascular structures is simulated according to the perspective projection and energy attenuation principles of X-rays. Finally, the simulated projection vasculature is fused with a predefined angiographic mask image to generate a realistic angiogram. The proposed method is evaluated on a CT image and three generally utilized surfaces. The results fully demonstrate the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed method.
Influence of ketamine on amino acid neurotransmitters secretion by nerve cells in vitro
Authors: Shi Mingxian , Chen Rui , Guo Cen , Gao Li
Published: March 2016

In order to study the influence of amino acid neurotransmitters secreted by the nerve cells after ketamine treatment, the nerve cells were cultured in vitro to exclude the interference of other factors in vivo and treated with three different doses of ketamine (1, 3 and 5 µg/mL). Then, the concentration of neuronal amino acid neurotransmitters was examined at 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, 120 min after treatment. The trends of each amino acid concentration after ketamine treatment were nearly the same among the different treatment doses. After 15 min of adapting time, ketamine decreased the excitatory amino acid glutamic acid and aspartic acid concentration, and increased the concentration of the inhibitory amino acid glycine. Their concentrations showed a tendency to return approximately to the original level after 120 min.
Calorific Value and Chemical Composition of Five Semi-Arid Mexican Tree Species
Authors: Ngangyo-Heya Maginot , Foroughbahchk-Pournavab Rahim , Carrillo-Parra Artemio , Rutiaga-Quiñones José , Zelinski Volker , Pintor-Ibarra Luis
Published: March 2016

The current global energy crisis has generated growing interest in looking for alternatives to traditional fossil fuels, presenting lignocellulosic materials as a promising resource for sustainable energy production. In this paper, the calorific values and chemical composition of the trunks, branches, twigs and leaves of five timber species of the semi-arid land of Mexico (Helietta parvifolia (Gray) Benth., Ebenopsis ebano (Berl.) Barneby, Acacia berlandieri (Benth.), Havardia pallens (Benth.) Britton & Rose and Acacia wrightii (Benth.)) were determined according to international standards. The results highlighted the calorific value ranges of 17.56 to 18.61 MJ kg−1 in trunks, 17.15 to 18.45 MJ kg−1 in branches, 17.29 to 17.92 MJ kg−1 in twigs, and 17.35to 19.36 MJ kg−1 in leaves. The pH presented an acidic trend (3.95–5.64). The content of mineral elements varied in trunks (1.09%–2.29%), branches (0.86%–2.75%), twigs (4.26%–6.76%) and leaves (5.77%–11.79%), showing the higher proportion in Ca (57.03%–95.53%), followed by K (0.95%–19.21%) and Mg (0.88%–13.47%). The highest amount of extractives was obtained in the methanolic solvent (3.96%–17.03%). The lignin recorded values of 28.78%–35.84% for trunks, 17.14%–31.39% for branches and 20.61%–29.92% for twigs. Lignin showed a moderately strong correlation (r = 0.66) with calorific value, but the best mathematical model was registered with the calorific value depending on the pH and lignin (R2 = 58.86%).
Improving Process Yield in Succinic Acid Production by Cell Recycling of Recombinant Corynebacterium glutamicum
Authors: Jojima Toru , Noburyu Ryoji , Suda Masako , Okino Shohei , Yukawa Hideaki , Inui Maysayuki
Published: March 2016

Aerobically cultivated cells of Corynebacterium glutamicum produce mixed organic acids, including succinic acid (SA), from glucose when the cells are transferred to oxygen-deprived conditions. Genetic modification, including inactivation of lactate dehydrogenase and overexpression of pyruvate carboxylase, allows this microbe to be an efficient SA producer under the conditions of oxygen deprivation. High productivity and high titers can be achieved in the production process by using the genetically engineered strain of C. glutamicum under the given conditions. However, glucose consumption for cell preparation decreases process yield (defined as the quantity of SA produced divided by the total quantity of glucose used in cell preparation and SA production). In this study, we investigated cell recycle fed-batch fermentation for SA production to improve the process yield by reducing the effect of glucose consumption for cell preparation on the process yield. A genetically stable and markerless strain, harboring nine genomic copies of the pyruvate carboxylase gene, was newly constructed and used for cell recycle fermentation. During 26 reaction cycles, only 0.7% decrease in specific productivity per reaction was observed. Overall, the process yield was improved by 79% compared to that in a single fed-batch reaction without cell recycling.
A Comparative Analysis of the Distributions of KFC and McDonald’s Outlets in China
Authors: Rui Yikang , Huang Huang , Lu Min , Wang Bao , Wang Jiechen
Published: March 2016

Mainland China has become one of the most important markets for international fast-food chains over the past decade. To study the regional spread of KFC and McDonald’s outlets in Chinese cities, the correlation of their distributions and degree of market expansion were explored and compared to analyze both the local and the global spatial autocorrelations. A geographically weighted Poisson regression model was also used to examine the influence of demographic, economic, and geographic factors on their spatial distributions. The findings of this comparative study reveal the site selection criteria at the city level by studying the differences and similarities in outlet distributions for KFC and McDonald’s. The presented results can guide other chains to enhance business location planning and formulate regional development policy.
Ultra-Reliable Link Adaptation for Downlink MISO Transmission in 5G Cellular Networks
Authors: Oruthota Udesh , Ahmed Furqan , Tirkkonen Olav
Published: March 2016

This paper discusses robust link adaptation for a downlink precoded multiple input single output system, for guaranteeing ultra-reliable (99.999%) transmissions to mobile users (e.g., slowly moving machines in a factory) served by a small cell network. The proposed technique compensates the effect of inaccurate channel state information (CSI) caused by user mobility, as well as the variation of precoders in the interfering cells. Both of these impairments translate into instability of the received signal-to-noise plus interference ratios (SINRs), and may lead to CSI mispredictions and potentially erroneous transmissions. We show that, by knowing the statistics of the propagation channels and the precoders variations, it is possible to compute a backoff that guarantees robust link adaptation. The backoff value is based on the statistics of realized SINR, and is consequently used to adapt the transmissions according to current channel state. Theoretical analysis accompanied by simulation results show that the proposed approach is suitable for attaining 5G ultra-reliability targets in realistic settings.
The Effects of Creatine Supplementation on Explosive Performance and Optimal Individual Postactivation Potentiation Time
Authors: Wang Chia-Chi , Yang Ming-Ta , Lu Kang-Hao , Chan Kuei-Hui
Published: March 2016

Creatine plays an important role in muscle energy metabolism. Postactivation potentiation (PAP) is a phenomenon that can acutely increase muscle power, but it is an individualized process that is influenced by muscle fatigue. This study examined the effects of creatine supplementation on explosive performance and the optimal individual PAP time during a set of complex training bouts. Thirty explosive athletes performed tests of back squat for one repetition maximum (1RM) strength and complex training bouts for determining the individual optimal timing of PAP, height and peak power of a counter movement jump before and after the supplementation. Subjects were assigned to a creatine or placebo group and then consumed 20 g of creatine or carboxymethyl cellulose per day for six days. After the supplementation, the 1RM strength in the creatine group significantly increased (p < 0.05). The optimal individual PAP time in the creatine group was also significant earlier than the pre-supplementation and post-supplementation of the placebo group (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in jump performance between the groups. This study demonstrates that creatine supplementation improves maximal muscle strength and the optimal individual PAP time of complex training but has no effect on explosive performance.
Investigation of Temperature Dynamics in Small and Shallow Reservoirs, Case Study: Lake Binaba, Upper East Region of Ghana
Authors: Abbasi Ali , Annor Frank , Van de Giesen Nick
Published: March 2016

An unsteady fully three-dimensional model of Lake Binaba (a shallow small reservoir) in semi-arid Upper East Region of Ghana has been developed to simulate its temperature dynamics. The model developed is built on the Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations, utilizing the Boussinesq approach. As the results of the model are significantly affected by the physical conditions on the boundaries, allocating appropriate boundary conditions, particularly over a water surface, is essential in simulating the lake’s thermal structure. The thermal effects of incoming short-wave radiation implemented as a heat source term in the temperature equation, while the heat fluxes at the free water surface, which depend on wind speed, air temperature, and atmospheric stability conditions are considered as temperature boundary condition. The model equations were solved using OpenFOAM CFD toolbox. As the flow is completely turbulent, which is affected by the complex boundary conditions, a new heat transfer solver and turbulence model were developed to investigate the spatial and temporal distribution of temperature in small and shallow inland water bodies using improved time-dependent boundary conditions. The computed temperature values were compared with four days of observed field data. Simulated and observed temperature profiles show reasonable agreement where the root mean square error (RMSE) over the simulation period ranges from 0.11 to 0.44 °C in temporal temperature profiles with an average value of 0.33 °C. Results indicate that the model is able to simulate the flow variables and the temperature distribution in small inland water bodies with complex bathymetry.
PRECISE STRONG LENSING MASS MODELING OF FOUR HUBBLE FRONTIER FIELD CLUSTERS AND A SAMPLE OF MAGNIFIED HIGH-REDSHIFT GALAXIES
Authors: Kawamata Ryota , Oguri Masamune , Ishigaki Masafumi , Shimasaku Kazuhiro , Ouchi Masami
Published: March 2016

We conduct precise strong lensing mass modeling of four Hubble Frontier Field (HFF) clusters, Abell 2744, MACS J0416.1−2403, MACS J0717.5+3745, and MACS J1149.6+2223, for which HFF imaging observations are completed. We construct a refined sample of more than 100 multiple images for each cluster by taking advantage of the full-depth HFF images, and conduct mass modeling using the glafic software, which assumes simply parametrized mass distributions. Our mass modeling also exploits a magnification constraint from the lensed SN Ia HFF14Tom for Abell 2744 and positional constraints from the multiple images S1–S4 of the lensed supernova SN Refsdal for MACS J1149.6+2223. We find that our best-fitting mass models reproduce the observed image positions with rms errors of ∼0.″4, which are smaller than rms errors in previous mass modeling that adopted similar numbers of multiple images. Our model predicts a new image of SN Refsdal with a relative time delay and magnification that are fully consistent with a recent detection of reappearance. We then construct catalogs of z ∼ 6–9 dropout galaxies behind the four clusters and estimate magnification factors for these dropout galaxies with our best-fitting mass models. The dropout sample from the four cluster fields contains ∼120 galaxies at z ≳ 6, about 20 of which are predicted to be magnified by a factor of more than 10. Some of the high-redshift galaxies detected in the HFF have lensing-corrected magnitudes of M
UV ∼ −15 to −14. Our analysis demonstrates that the HFF data indeed offer an ideal opportunity to study faint high-redshift galaxies. All lensing maps produced from our mass modeling will be made available on the Space Telescope Science Institute website (https://archive.stsci.edu/prepds/frontier/lensmodels/).
OSCILLATION OF NEWLY FORMED LOOPS AFTER MAGNETIC RECONNECTION IN THE SOLAR CHROMOSPHERE
Authors: Yang Shuhong , Xiang Yongyuan
Published: March 2016

With the high spatial and temporal resolution Hα images from the New Vacuum Solar Telescope, we focus on two groups of loops with an X-shaped configuration in the dynamic chromosphere. We find that the anti-directed loops approach each other and reconnect continually. The connectivity of the loops is changed and new loops are formed and stack together. The stacked loops are sharply bent, implying that they are greatly impacted by the magnetic tension force. When another reconnection process takes place, one new loop is formed and stacks with the previously formed ones. Meanwhile, the stacked loops retract suddenly and move toward the balance position, performing an overshoot movement, which led to an oscillation with an average period of about 45 s. The oscillation of newly formed loops after magnetic reconnection in the chromosphere is observed for the first time. We suggest that the stability of the stacked loops is destroyed due to the attachment of the last new loop and then suddenly retract under the effect of magnetic tension. Because of the retraction, another lower loop is pushed outward and performs an oscillation with a period of about 25 s. The different oscillation periods may be due to their difference in three parameters, i.e., loop length, plasma density, and magnetic field strength.
To Beard or Not to Beard? Bacterial Shedding Among Surgeons
Authors: Parry Joshua Alan , Karau Melissa J. , Aho Johnathon M. , Taunton Michael , Patel Robin
Published: March 2016

Beards in the operating room are controversial because of their potential to retain and transmit pathogenic organisms. Many bearded orthopedic surgeons choose to wear nonsterile hoods in addition to surgical masks to decrease contamination of the operative field. The goal of this study was to determine whether nonsterile surgical hoods reduce the risk of bacterial shed ding posed by beards. Bearded (n=10) and clean-shaven (n=10) subjects completed 3 sets of standardized fa cial motions, each lasting 90 seconds and performed over blood agar plates, while unmasked, masked, and masked and hooded. The plates were cultured for 48 hours under aerobic and anaerobic conditions. Colony-forming units (CFUs) were quantified, expanded, and identified. Overall, the addition of surgical hoods did not decrease the total number of anaerobic and aerobic CFUs isolated per subject, with a mean of 1.1 CFUs while hooded compared with 1.4 CFUs with the mask alone (
P
=.5). Unmasked subjects shed a mean of 6.5 CFUs, which was significantly higher than the number of CFUs shed while masked (
P
=.02) or hooded (
P
=.01). The bearded group did not shed more than the clean-shaven group while unmasked (9.5 vs 3.3 CFUs,
P
=.1), masked (1.6 vs 1.2 CFUs,
P
=.9), or hooded (0.9 vs 1.3 CFUs,
P
=.6). Bearded surgeons did not appear to have an increased likelihood of bacterial shedding compared with their nonbearded counter parts while wearing surgical masks, and the addition of nonsterile surgical hoods did not decrease the amount of bacterial shedding observed. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(2):e290–e294.]
Understanding Sustainable Tourism
Authors: Singh Chandresh
Published: March 2016

The concept of ‘Sustainable tourism' is still an evolving one and the scholars theorizing the concept and institutions trying to adopt it as a policy framework are having different set of meanings attached to this often quoted term. In last few decades issue of sustainability in various forms has also emerged as an important one within the domain of tourism planning and operations. The Growth of tourism along with its many benefits was also accountable for various adverse impacts on destinations and to minimize these impacts has become a matter of great concern worldwide. Efforts in this direction have encouraged industry experts and policy makers to promote ‘Sustainable tourism'. The stakeholders in varying degree are sensitive to these dangers and seek to protect tourist destinations and to protect tourism, which is forecasted to grow in future and is currently is world's largest and fastest growing industries. The constant growth of tourism is predicted to have severe impacts on biological diversity, indigenous cultures, environment which provide the base to facilitate tourism.
Soret and Dufour Effects on MHD Boundary Layer Flow Past a Stretching Plate
Authors: Nagabhushnam Reddy B. , Vijaya Kumar Varma S. , Kumar B. Rushi
Published: March 2016

The Soret and Dufour on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) laminar boundary layer flow past stretching plate with heat and mass transfer are studied. The governing partial differential equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations before being solved numerically by a fourth order Runga-Kutta method along with shooting technique. Numerical results are obtained for the skin-friction coefficient, the local Nusselt number and local Sherwood number as well as the velocity, temperature and concentration profiles for different values of the governing parameters, namely, the magnetic parameter, Soret number, Dufour number, Schmidt number and Prandtl number. The numerical results are compared to those of an earlier study and found to be in excellent agreement.
Use of Thermoplastic Polymer in Mortar Composites to Improve its Chloride Penetration Resistance
Authors: Omrane M. , Benosman A.S. , Mouli M. , Senhadji Y.
Published: March 2016

This paper presents a study of the resistance to chloride penetration of blended Portland cement mortar containing thermoplastic waste polymer polyethylene terephthalate (TWPET). Composite TWPET-mortars are often presented as the materials of the future in reason of their potential for innovation and advantages that offer. In fact, the use of TWPET percentages as a cement substitution reduces energy costs; address problems related to environmental pollution by CO2 emissions and repairs various reinforced concrete structures. Blended Portland cement (CPJ) is partially replaced with TWPET at the amounts of 2%, 4% and 6% by weight of cementitious materials. Chloride penetration depth of full and partial immersions in 3% NaCl solution, rapid chloride permeability test (RCPT) after 28, 90 and 120 days, sorptivity, leaching test and flexural strength of thermoplastic-mortar composites (TMCs) were determined. Test results reveal that the resistance to chloride penetration of TMCs improves substantially with partial replacement of CPJ with TWPET and without significantly affecting the flexural strength in tap water. The chemical resistance is higher with an increase in the replacement level. So, sorptivity, the chloride ion penetration depth, apparent chloride ion diffusion coefficient, the total charge passed in coulombs and leached depth measurements of the TMCs are much smaller than those of reference mortar. The formations which appear such as different calcium salts were determined by X-ray diffraction. These results take into account the use of waste plastics in the manufacture of mortars modified which can be both recommended for preventing the chloride-induced corrosion of the steel in various reinforced concrete structures and participate greatly in the environment preservation.
Drivers of changes in stratospheric and tropospheric ozone between year 2000 and 2100
Authors: Banerjee Antara , Maycock Amanda C. , Archibald Alexander T. , Abraham N. Luke , Telford Paul , Braesicke Peter , Pyle John A.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. A stratosphere-resolving configuration of the Met Office's Unified Model (UM) with the United Kingdom Chemistry and Aerosols (UKCA) scheme is used to investigate the atmospheric response to changes in (a) greenhouse gases and climate, (b) ozone-depleting substances (ODSs) and (c) non-methane ozone precursor emissions. A suite of time-slice experiments show the separate, as well as pairwise, impacts of these perturbations between the years 2000 and 2100. Sensitivity to uncertainties in future greenhouse gases and aerosols is explored through the use of the Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) 4.5 and 8.5 scenarios. The results highlight an important role for the stratosphere in determining the annual mean tropospheric ozone response, primarily through stratosphere–troposphere exchange (STE) of ozone. Under both climate change and reductions in ODSs, increases in STE offset decreases in net chemical production and act to increase the tropospheric ozone burden. This opposes the effects of projected decreases in ozone precursors through measures to improve air quality, which act to reduce the ozone burden. The global tropospheric lifetime of ozone (τO3) does not change significantly under climate change at RCP4.5, but it decreases at RCP8.5. This opposes the increases in τO3 simulated under reductions in ODSs and ozone precursor emissions. The additivity of the changes in ozone is examined by comparing the sum of the responses in the single-forcing experiments to those from equivalent combined-forcing experiments. Whilst the ozone responses to most forcing combinations are found to be approximately additive, non-additive changes are found in both the stratosphere and troposphere when a large climate forcing (RCP8.5) is combined with the effects of ODSs.