bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Venezuela Nostálgica. Reelección, Ruptura y Revolución
Authors: Luis León Ángel Dámaso
Published: October 2017

La República de Venezuela fue un oasis en América Latina, un país estable, democrático y próspero durante varios lustros hasta la llegada de la crisis de los años ochenta. El nuevo contexto y el desgaste experimentado por los actores tradicionales forzaron cambios políticos profundos. La crisis, los ajustes realizados durante los noventa y las esperanzas de la población de un día regresar a las senda del bienestar generaron respuestas políticas cada vez más radicales. En este artículo se busca analizar las respuestas que da el pueblo venezolano a los desafíos que les presenta su nueva realidad socioeconómica y que entroncan con ciertas visiones derivadas de la experiencia pasada, así como de su forma de concebir el papel del Estado y el del líder. También estudia la frustración generada al no cumplirse las expectativas depositadas por los ciudadanos, llevando a la elección de opciones cada vez más radicales.
Voces disonantes. Opiniones libertarias sobre Venezuela y Cuba (1958-1961)
Authors: De Paz-Sánchez Manuel
Published: October 2017

Este ensayo plantea un acercamiento, desde la perspectiva de la prensa anarquista del exilio español en Francia, a los procesos político-revolucionarios de Venezuela y Cuba, que produjeron la caída de Pérez Jiménez y de Batista, pero que siguieron rumbos políticos diferentes. Los anarquistas españoles encontraron en Venezuela espacios de sociabilidad, se reorganizaron, generaron redes de solidaridad internacional y trataron de contribuir a deteriorar la imagen exterior del régimen de Franco. En Cuba, por el contrario, el movimiento anarquista local, que poseía una vieja tradición de origen hispano, tendió a desaparecer a medida que se cimentaron los postulados marxistas. Pero la revolución cubana generó vivas polémicas en la prensa libertaria del exilio español, a causa de sus singularidades y de su enorme popularidad
La política desde el campo: iniciativas locales y gobierno rural en tiempos reformistas (Santa Fe, virreinato del Río de la Plata a finales del siglo XVIII)
Authors: Barriera Darío G.
Published: October 2017

Este artículo analiza iniciativas locales de un grupo de vecinos rurales en el Río de la Plata para ocuparse de un capítulo ausente en la Real Ordenanza de Intendentes de Buenos Aires (1782): el gobierno de las campañas. El texto plantea que la dicotomía «imposición o resistencias» a los procesos de centralización no agota la paleta de experiencias históricas. Documentando la existencia de una rica vida política en una campaña marginal del virreinato rioplatense durante el último cuarto del siglo XVIII, hace visible el modo en que los procesos territoriales «desde abajo» incidieron en la arquitectura institucional del período.
Reflejos del futuro presente. Imágenes de los Estados Unidos en la prensa española de principios del siglo XX (1898-1914)
Authors: Corrales Morales David
Published: October 2017

Este artículo se centra en las percepciones españolas sobre los Estados Unidos entre 1898 y 1914 a través del vaciado de algunas de las principales publicaciones de ese momento. Estableciendo una serie de ejes coincidentes –cultura, desarrollo científico-tecnológico, política y sociedad–, el autor demuestra que la visión española no fue tan diferente a la de otros países, pues se vio condicionada por las valoraciones que se estaban realizando en Europa. Asimismo, el establecimiento de una extensa red de contactos en las redacciones de periódicos y revistas sirvió como canal de circulación de un conjunto de ideas y representaciones comunes sobre la potencia americana.
Osservazioni sulla fiscalità diretta in età angioina : le forme del prelievo in terra di Bari e in Terra d’Otranto
Authors: Pizzuto Simona
Published: October 2017

Il prelievo dell'imposta diretta rappresenta un tassello importante della politica fiscale angioina. La generalis subventio o colletta fu formalmente richiesta come tassazione straordinaria per la difesa del Regno ; tuttavia per la frequenza dell'esazione, essa si configurò, sostanzialmente, come un vero e proprio tributo ordinario e annuale. Nel solco dei cambiamenti già apportati dalla monarchia normanno-sveva, furono i primi due sovrani angioini, Carlo I e Carlo II, a intervenire nel sistema fiscale, precisando più compiutamente le funzioni degli ufficiali preposti alla riscossione dell'imposta e le procedure legate al prelievo. Le pratiche fiscali messe in atto nel corso del XIII secolo sono state ampiamente studiate nei lavori di Romolo Caggese, Giuseppe Galasso, Jean-Marie Martin, Serena Morelli e Giovanni Vitolo. Meno note sono invece le situazioni che si vennero a creare con i sovrani successivi, i quali non intervennero in maniera significativa in ambito fiscale, ma adottarono la politica già tracciata dai loro predecessori, declinandola secondo i contesti e le contingenze. Il presente lavoro si propone, pertanto, di offrire una panoramica sulle diverse modalità di applicazione del prelievo diretto nelle ancora poco studiate periferie del regno tra XIV e XV secolo, soffermandosi in particolare sulle due province di Terra di Bari e di Terra d'Otranto, sulla scorta della documentazione offerta dai Registri ricostruiti della Cancelleria Angioina, dai Libri Rossi e dai Codici Diplomatici. Verranno presi in considerazione alcuni interessanti aspetti dell'amministrazione fiscale : le competenze degli ufficiali preposti alla riscossione ; la serrata contrattazione tra la monarchia e le università ; le concessioni di riduzioni e remissioni di una parte o dell'itera somma da versare e infine la ripartizione dell'onere fiscale all'interno delle comunità.
Diritti e funzionari di passo. Per una lettura del sistema finanziario del regno
Authors: Dalena Pietro
Published: October 2017

La problematica dell'istituzione dei diritti di passo e della nomina degli ufficiali preposti al loro controllo e alla loro riscossione si inserisce nel novero delle ricerche sui cosiddetti uffici minori e periferici del Regno. La ricostruzione delle loro vicende tende ad individuare embrioni di un nuovo ceto dirigente formato da cavalieri transalpini chiamati da Carlo I d'Angiò che subì un lento processo di integrazione a partire dal regno di Carlo II. La tassa dei passi, sin dalla prima età angioina, rappresentò un’entrata tra le più cospicue del bilancio della Corona che veniva in parte utilizzata per la manutenzione e la vigilanza delle strade. Un programma amministrativo, quest’ultimo, che, sul piano pratico si rivelò sterile e privo di efficacia, in quanto le funzioni pubbliche su molti passi spesso venivano esercitate da funzionari corrotti o da baroni infedeli che facevano proliferare il numero dei passi. Il fenomeno divenne più evidente durante il governo di Giovanna I d’Angiò. Per l’età angioina non ci sono pervenuti tariffari e non sappiamo a quanto ammontassero le somme rivenienti dai diritti di passo o quanto incidessero sul bilancio della Corona. Sicuramente avevano notevole rilievo se si considerino le circolari dei primi sovrani tese a stroncare il fenomeno della riscossione arbitraria. Il viaggiatore inadempiente, comunque, doveva subire un procedimento di penalizzazione ad opera del gabelliere, al quale erano attribuite funzioni di giudice di passo. Ma solo Ferrante, promulgando l’editto super passibus il 28 settembre 1466, intese mettere ordine in una situazione di abusi e illegalità diffusa che era di nocumento al sistema di relazioni economiche e sociali del regno. Egli ingiunse a coloro (conti, baroni etc.) che detenevano a qualunque titolo i diritti di passo di rendere ragione alla Camera della Sommaria dell’entità delle tariffe di pedaggio da loro imposte e della legittimità giuridica sulle funzioni esercitate. Pertanto furono aboliti i passi istituiti illegalmente e soggetti a balzelli di pedaggio e ridotti ad equità quelli abusivamente maggiorati. Dei passi istituiti legittimamente per la tutela dei viandanti e dei mercanti dalle insidie dei grassatori e per la manutenzione di strade e ponti, furono riconosciuti la congruità del pedaggio. I numerosi tariffari testimoniano il volume di entrate in età aragonese.
Banchieri del re. La monarchia angioina e le compagnie toscane da Carlo I a Roberto I
Authors: Poloni Alma
Published: October 2017

Carlo I d’Angiò, per le proprie esigenze finanziarie, si rivolse a un gruppo piuttosto ampio di compagnie toscane. Fu solo nella seconda metà degli anni ’90 del Duecento che Carlo II strinse un legame privilegiato, praticamente esclusivo, con poche società fiorentine, Bardi, Peruzzi e Acciaiuoli. Se si allarga lo sguardo al più ampio contesto europeo, si nota che negli stessi anni un fenomeno del tutto analogo interessò anche il papato, il Regno d’Inghilterra e il Regno di Francia. Negli anni ’80-’90 del Duecento i sovrani passarono da un generico ricorso a una molteplicità di compagnie italiane a un rapporto quasi esclusivo con due o al massimo tre compagnie toscane. È il fenomeno dei « banchieri della corona », un sistema economico-finanziario con caratteristiche del tutto peculiari, che nella prima metà del Trecento diede un’impronta fondamentale all’economia europea. L’intervento, mantenendo un’ottica europea, analizza la declinazione angioina di questo sistema. Esso cerca di comprenderne le logiche di funzionamento, i vantaggi, in termini soprattutto di abbattimento dei costi di transazione, che ne traevano la corona e le compagnie stesse, le più ampie conseguenze economiche, i fattori di debolezza.
Combined Computational and Experimental Studies of Trans- and Cis-Isomers of Potassium Diaquabis(Oxalato)Chromate (III)
Authors: Ruangchaithaweesuk Songtham , Chorkate Juthathip , Maihom Thana , Poolmee Potjaman , Treesukol Piti , Rungsawang Tipawan , Maitarad Phornphimon , Boekfa Bundet
Published: October 2017

The trans- and cis-isomers of potassium diaquabis(oxalato)chromate (III) were studied computationally and experimentally. The structures of trans- and cis-configurations of [Cr(H2O)2(C2O4)2]- were optimized by DFT methodology with various functionals namely: B3LYP, CAM-B3LYP, TPSS, PBE, M06-L and ωB97X-D along with the more sophisticated MP2 method. The calculations show that the most stable forms for both isomers are in quartet states. The results from all DFT methods reveal that the cis-isomer is literally more stable than the trans-isomer with the lower average relative energy of 2.1 kcal/mol. These are consistent with the results from MP2 calculation and experimental observation. The absorption wavelengths for the excited states of trans- and cis-structures were calculated by the time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT) method. For the experiments, the trans- and cis-isomers of potassium diaquabis(oxalato)chromate (III) were synthesized and characterized by UV-Vis spectrophotometry. Both isomers have two maximum absorption wavelengths at 415 and 560 nm.
Design of Experiment Approach for Fabrication Process of Electrospun Shellac Nanofibers Using Factorial Designs
Authors: Chinatangkul Nawinda , Pengon Sirikarn , Limmatvapirat Chutima , Limmatvapirat Sontaya
Published: October 2017

Electrospun shellac nanofibers might be potentially used for wound dressing application due to its natural origin and excellent protective properties. In this study, a full factorial design with three replicated center points was performed in order to investigate the main and interaction effects of shellac content (35-40% w/w), applied voltage (9-27 kV) and flow rate (0.4-1.2 mL/hr) on the morphology of shellac nanofibers. A total of 11 experiments were conducted. The response variables were the diameter of nanofibers, the distribution of diameter and the amount of beads. The results showed that the concentration of shellac was the most significant impact on shellac nanofiber diameter, while applied voltage, interaction between shellac content and voltage, and feed rate were minor factors, respectively. Shellac content and applied voltage had negative relationships with bead amount. When reducing the concentration of shellac and voltage, the amount of beads was increased. However, the influence of these parameters on diameter distribution seemed to be not significant. Based on response surface plot, nanofibers with thinner diameter (~493 nm) and less number of beads (~0.47) could be obtained at the optimum conditions; the shellac content of 38.5% w/w, the voltage of 21 kV and the feed rate of 0.4 mL/hr.
Mechanical and Morphological Properties of Sulfur-Cured Natural Rubber/Polyethylene/Epoxidized Natural Rubber Blends
Authors: Phatcharasit Kritsada , Taweepreda Wirach , Phummor Patompong
Published: October 2017

The polymer blend was prepared from natural rubber (NR) and polyethylene (PE) powder blended with epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) by using an internal mixer. In this study, epoxidized natural rubber (ENR) was used as compatibilizer for the blends. Blending ENR with PE powder and NR were prepared at various compositions from 0-20% by weight. Then, specimens from the blends were produced by compression molding at 150 °C. The mechanical and morphological properties of the composites were investigated. It was found that the addition of ENR content has improved the tensile strength, compression set and hardness for the ternary compositions composed of NR/PE powder/ENR compared to the binary one (i.e. NR/PE powder). ENR contributed to a better dispersion between the NR and PE phases as observed in the scanning electron microscopy.
Experimental Study on the Performance of DMFC Using Novel Composite Materials of Polypyrrole-Coated Polypropylene as BPs
Authors: Yeetsorn Rungsima , Prapainainar Chaiwat , Fowler Michael W. , Maiket Yaowaret
Published: October 2017

Polypropylene/three-carbon-filler composite bipolar plates (BPs) of direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) were fabricated by an injection molding. The composite materials were made of polypropylene (PP), carbon black, carbon fiber and graphite. Gas flow channel surfaces on the BPs were subsequently modified by polypyrrole (PPy) using a coating technique in order to improve surface electrical conductivity. This research is a feasibility study to use PPy-coated PP composite as BPs in a DMFC. The surface electrical resistance and performance in a fuel cell containing the composite BPs under DMFC operating conditions were evaluated against conventional graphite BPs. The surface resistance values of PPy-coated PP composites decreased around six orders of magnitude, compared with those values of PP composites. According to the performance results, PPy-coated composite BPs can be used in DMFC if the surface adhesion between a PPy layer and the BP surface was further improved.
Effects of Alkali Treatment and Fiber Content on the Properties of Bagasse Fiber-Reinforced Epoxy Composites
Authors: Suckley Sawitree , Deenuch Piyanuch , Disjareon Natchaya , Phongtamrug Suttinun
Published: October 2017

In this research work, natural fiber reinforced composites of bagasse fiber-epoxy resin were prepared. The chemical treatments using sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at 1,3,5,7 wt% were carried out to modify the fiber properties. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was used to study the thermal stability of treated and untreated fibers. The effects of fiber treatment and fiber contents on mechanical properties of bagasse-epoxy composite were investigated. The characteristics of bagasse-epoxy resin composites exposed to high temperature as well as water absorption behavior were determined. The results from the TGA revealed that alkalization improved thermal stability of bagasse fiber. Treated bagasse fibers also had lower moisture content as compared to untreated fiber. The experimental results showed that the flexural properties of composites prepared from treated bagasse fibers were enhanced as compared to the untreated fiber composite. Thermal degradation study demonstrated that treated bagasse fiber composites experienced lower weight loss than untreated fiber composites. From water absorption study, it was observed that the treated bagasse fiber composites had lower water absorption values than those of untreated fiber based composites.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity by Silver-Modified Bismuth Vanadate
Authors: Suwanchawalit Cheewita , Roongraung Kamonchanok , Buddee Supat , Wongnawa Sumpun , Patil Avinash
Published: October 2017

Silver-modified bismuth vanadate (Ag-BiVO4) photocatalysts were easily prepared via the co-precipitation method. The effects of silver contents on the chemical properties of BiVO4 were evaluated. The prepared Ag-BiVO4 samples were characterized by several techniques such as X-ray diffractometry (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and diffused reflectance UV-Vis spectroscopy (DRS). The mixed phase of monoclinic scheetlite structure and characteristic peaks of silver particles were found. Silver contents strongly affect the morphology of the prepared Ag-BiVO4 samples. DRS spectra revealed that the synthesized Ag-BiVO4 samples exhibited strong absorption in the visible region. The absorption in the visible zone is responsible for the high photocatalytic activity of Ag-BiVO4 under visible light irradiation. The photocatalytic degradation of methylene blue under visible light irradiation was studied using the BiVO4 as photocatalysts. The photocatalytic results reveal that the prepared Ag-BiVO4 samples could degrade the methylene blue dye.
XANES Studies on the Oxidation States of Copper Ion in Silicate Glass
Authors: Samkongngam Kamolwan , Buntem Radchada
Published: October 2017

The silicate glass was prepared using rice husk as the source of silica. The base glass formula is composed of SiO2 (from rice husk ash), Na2CO3, K2CO3, ZnO, H3BO3, CaO and Al2O3 or Al. CuO was used as the colorant in the glass matrix in the absence and presence of reducing agent. The color of the glass obtained was varied from dark blue to blue depending on the amount of CuO and reducing agent. The expansion coefficients of copper doped glass are in the range of 12.43 x 10-6 - 14.35 x 10-6 (°C-1) which is common for the silicate glass. The finger prints of the bond vibrations were studied using IR spectroscopy. While the oxidation state and the coordination information of the copper ion in the glass matrix were investigated using X-ray absorption spectroscopy. In the absence and presence of reducing agent, Cu+ and Cu2+ exist in the glass matrix. However, in the presence of reducing agent, the amount of Cu+ in the glass matrix is higher.
Transgenic Mice Expressing Human Proteinase 3 Exhibit Sustained Neutrophil-Associated Peritonitis
Authors: Martin Katherine R. , Pederzoli-Ribeil Magali , Pacreau Emeline , Burgener Sabrina S. , Dahdah Albert , Candalh Céline , Lauret Evelyne , Foretz Marc , Mouthon Luc , Lucas Bruno , Thieblemont Nathalie , Benarafa Charaf , Launay Pierre , Witko-Sarsat Véronique
Published: October 2017

Proteinase 3 (PR3) is a myeloid serine protease expressed in neutrophils, monocytes, and macrophages. PR3 has a number of well-characterized proinflammatory functions, including cleaving and activating chemokines and controlling cell survival and proliferation. When presented on the surface of apoptotic neutrophils, PR3 can disrupt the normal anti-inflammatory reprogramming of macrophages following the phagocytosis of apoptotic cells. To better understand the function of PR3 in vivo, we generated a human PR3 transgenic mouse (hPR3Tg). During zymosan-induced peritonitis, hPR3Tg displayed an increased accumulation of neutrophils within the peritoneal cavity compared with wild-type control mice, with no difference in the recruitment of macrophages or B or T lymphocytes. Mice were also subjected to cecum ligation and puncture, a model used to induce peritoneal inflammation through infection. hPR3Tg displayed decreased survival rates in acute sepsis, associated with increased neutrophil extravasation. The decreased survival and increased neutrophil accumulation were associated with the cleavage of annexin A1, a powerful anti-inflammatory protein known to facilitate the resolution of inflammation. Additionally, neutrophils from hPR3Tg displayed enhanced survival during apoptosis compared with controls, and this may also contribute to the increased accumulation observed during the later stages of inflammation. Taken together, our data suggest that human PR3 plays a proinflammatory role during acute inflammatory responses by affecting neutrophil accumulation, survival, and the resolution of inflammation.
Making community development at grassroots reality: Church-driven development approach in Zimbabwe’s context of severe poverty
Authors: Magezi Vhumani
Published: October 2017

The critical role played by communities in development initiatives is globally acknowledged. Churches are key community institutions that play a crucial role in community development, yet their role is not well understood from an empirical perspective. A cross-sectional study of a church-driven community development initiative that was implemented in line with a practical inquiry approach, was conducted. The findings are presented and discussed, thereby leading to the conception of a holistic church-driven development approach that brings together different churches in the community. This approach responds to integrated community needs without focusing on one single issue, which is different to approaches advocated by some international development agencies and donors who recommend one or a few focused interventions.
Development and Evaluation of a Novel Survey Tool Assessing Inpatient Consult Service Performance
Authors: Miloslavsky Eli M. , Chang Yuchiao
Published: October 2017

Background 

Subspecialty consultation in inpatient medicine is increasing, and enhancing performance of consultation services may have a broad-reaching impact. Multisource feedback is an important tool in assessing competence and improving performance. A mechanism for primary team resident feedback on performance of consult services has not been described.

Objective 

We developed and evaluated an instrument designed to assess internal medicine (IM) subspecialty inpatient consult service performance. We hypothesized that the instrument would be feasible to administer and provide important information to fellowship directors.

Methods 

The instrument was administered in 2015 and 2016 at a single academic center. All IM residents were invited to evaluate 10 IM subspecialty consult services on 4 items and an overall satisfaction rating. The instrument allowed for free-text feedback to fellows. Program directors completed another survey assessing the impact of the consult service evaluation.

Results 

A total of 113 residents responded (47 in 2015 and 66 in 2016, for a combined response rate of 35%). Each of the 4 items measured (communication, professionalism, teaching, and pushback) correlated significantly with the overall satisfaction rating in univariate and multivariate analyses. There were no differences in ratings across postgraduate year or year of administration. There was considerable variation in ratings among the services evaluated. The 7 program directors who provided feedback found the survey useful and made programmatic changes following evaluation implementation.

Conclusions 

A primary team resident evaluation of inpatient medicine subspecialty consult services is feasible, provides valuable information, and is associated with changes in consult service structure and curricula.
Influence of sample temperature and environmental humidity on measurements of benzene in ambient air by transportable GC-PID
Authors: Romero-Trigueros Cristina , Doval Miñarro Marta , González Duperón Esther , González Ferradás Enrique
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Calibration of in situ analysers of air pollutants is usually done with dry standards. In this paper, the influence of sample temperature and environmental humidity on benzene measurements by gas chromatography coupled with a photoionisation detector (GC-PID) is studied. Two reference gas mixtures (40 and 5 µg m−3 nominal concentration benzene in air) were subjected to two temperature cycles (20/5/20 °C and 20/35/20 °C) and measured with two identical GC-PIDs. The change in sample temperature did not produce any significant change in readings. Regarding ambient humidity, the chromatographs were calibrated for benzene with dry gases and subjected to measure reference standards with humidity (20 and 80 % at 20 °C). When measuring a concentration of 0.5 µg m−3 benzene in air, the levels of humidity tested did not produce any significant interference in measurements taken with any of the analysers. However, when measuring a concentration of 40 µg m−3, biases in measurements of 18 and 21 % for each respective analyser were obtained when the relative humidity of the sample was 80 % at 20 °C. Further tests were carried out to study the nature of this interference. Results show that humidity interference depends on both the amount fractions of water vapour and benzene. If benzene concentrations in an area are close to its annual limit value (5 µg m−3), biases of 2.2 % can be expected when the absolute humidity is 8.6 g cm−3 – corresponding to a relative humidity of 50 % at 20 °C. This can be accounted for in the uncertainty budget of measurements with no need for corrections. If benzene concentrations are above the annual limit value, biases become higher. Thus, in these cases, actions should be taken to reduce the humidity interference, as an underestimation of benzene concentrations may cause a mismanagement of air quality in these situations.
GLOFRIM v1.0 – A globally applicable computational framework for integrated hydrological–hydrodynamic modelling
Authors: Hoch Jannis M. , Neal Jeffrey C. , Baart Fedor , van Beek Rens , Winsemius Hessel C. , Bates Paul D. , Bierkens Marc F. P.
Published: October 2017

Abstract. We here present GLOFRIM, a globally applicable computational framework for integrated hydrological–hydrodynamic modelling. GLOFRIM facilitates spatially explicit coupling of hydrodynamic and hydrologic models and caters for an ensemble of models to be coupled. It currently encompasses the global hydrological model PCR-GLOBWB as well as the hydrodynamic models Delft3D Flexible Mesh (DFM; solving the full shallow-water equations and allowing for spatially flexible meshing) and LISFLOOD-FP (LFP; solving the local inertia equations and running on regular grids). The main advantages of the framework are its open and free access, its global applicability, its versatility, and its extensibility with other hydrological or hydrodynamic models. Before applying GLOFRIM to an actual test case, we benchmarked both DFM and LFP for a synthetic test case. Results show that for sub-critical flow conditions, discharge response to the same input signal is near-identical for both models, which agrees with previous studies. We subsequently applied the framework to the Amazon River basin to not only test the framework thoroughly, but also to perform a first-ever benchmark of flexible and regular grids on a large-scale. Both DFM and LFP produce comparable results in terms of simulated discharge with LFP exhibiting slightly higher accuracy as expressed by a Kling–Gupta efficiency of 0.82 compared to 0.76 for DFM. However, benchmarking inundation extent between DFM and LFP over the entire study area, a critical success index of 0.46 was obtained, indicating that the models disagree as often as they agree. Differences between models in both simulated discharge and inundation extent are to a large extent attributable to the gridding techniques employed. In fact, the results show that both the numerical scheme of the inundation model and the gridding technique can contribute to deviations in simulated inundation extent as we control for model forcing and boundary conditions. This study shows that the presented computational framework is robust and widely applicable. GLOFRIM is designed as open access and easily extendable, and thus we hope that other large-scale hydrological and hydrodynamic models will be added. Eventually, more locally relevant processes would be captured and more robust model inter-comparison, benchmarking, and ensemble simulations of flood hazard on a large scale would be allowed for.
Methodology for earthquake rupture rate estimates of fault networks: example for the western Corinth rift, Greece
Authors: Chartier Thomas , Scotti Oona , Lyon-Caen Hélène , Boiselet Aurélien
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Modeling the seismic potential of active faults is a fundamental step of probabilistic seismic hazard assessment (PSHA). An accurate estimation of the rate of earthquakes on the faults is necessary in order to obtain the probability of exceedance of a given ground motion. Most PSHA studies consider faults as independent structures and neglect the possibility of multiple faults or fault segments rupturing simultaneously (fault-to-fault, FtF, ruptures). The Uniform California Earthquake Rupture Forecast version 3 (UCERF-3) model takes into account this possibility by considering a system-level approach rather than an individual-fault-level approach using the geological, seismological and geodetical information to invert the earthquake rates. In many places of the world seismological and geodetical information along fault networks is often not well constrained. There is therefore a need to propose a methodology relying on geological information alone to compute earthquake rates of the faults in the network. In the proposed methodology, a simple distance criteria is used to define FtF ruptures and consider single faults or FtF ruptures as an aleatory uncertainty, similarly to UCERF-3. Rates of earthquakes on faults are then computed following two constraints: the magnitude frequency distribution (MFD) of earthquakes in the fault system as a whole must follow an a priori chosen shape and the rate of earthquakes on each fault is determined by the specific slip rate of each segment depending on the possible FtF ruptures. The modeled earthquake rates are then compared to the available independent data (geodetical, seismological and paleoseismological data) in order to weight different hypothesis explored in a logic tree.The methodology is tested on the western Corinth rift (WCR), Greece, where recent advancements have been made in the understanding of the geological slip rates of the complex network of normal faults which are accommodating the ∼ 15 mm yr−1 north–south extension. Modeling results show that geological, seismological and paleoseismological rates of earthquakes cannot be reconciled with only single-fault-rupture scenarios and require hypothesizing a large spectrum of possible FtF rupture sets. In order to fit the imposed regional Gutenberg–Richter (GR) MFD target, some of the slip along certain faults needs to be accommodated either with interseismic creep or as post-seismic processes. Furthermore, computed individual faults' MFDs differ depending on the position of each fault in the system and the possible FtF ruptures associated with the fault. Finally, a comparison of modeled earthquake rupture rates with those deduced from the regional and local earthquake catalog statistics and local paleoseismological data indicates a better fit with the FtF rupture set constructed with a distance criteria based on 5 km rather than 3 km, suggesting a high connectivity of faults in the WCR fault system.
Delineation of shallow channel geometry and infill lithology using Spectral decomposition and seismic attributes: A case study from the North Sea Basin, Netherlands
Authors: Okiongbo Kenneth Samuel , Ombu Righteous
Published: October 2017

Abstract. In the Southern North Sea, 3D seismic data had been widely acquired to explore for hydrocarbons, but interpretations of these datasets until now focus mainly on the deep exploration targets of the petroleum companies. Less attention is given to shallow sediments. But these sediments often contain channels that can serve as potential reservoir units. Thus the mapping and identification of these shallow channels and defining their infill lithology is important. In this study, seismic spectral decomposition technique has been used to delineate shallow thin channel geometry in a 3D seismic data acquired in the Dutch sector of the North Sea. The concurrent interpretation of curvature and coherence cubes with seismic facies analysis based on reflection terminations and geometry, amplitude and continuity enables the discrimination between shale versus sand filled channels. The results of the spectral decomposition show two distinct low sinuosity channel features in NNE–SSW direction but becomes diffuse towards the North. The strong negative curvature anomaly along the channels's axes observed in the most negative curvature attribute implies that the sediments within the channels have undergone more compaction. These strong negative curvature anomalies are interpreted to be due to differential compaction of shale filled channels.
A review on ocular findings in mouse lemurs: potential links to age and genetic background
Authors: Dubicanac Marko , Radespiel Ute , Zimmermann Elke
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Mouse lemurs, the world's smallest primates, inhabit forests in Madagascar. They are nocturnal, arboreal and dependent on vision for their everyday lives. In the last decades, the grey mouse lemur became increasingly important for biomedical research, in particular aging research. Experiments which require the combination of visual fitness and old age consequently depend on a solid knowledge of ocular pathologies. Although ocular diseases in mouse lemurs have been described as being common, they have not received much attention so far. Yet it is important to know when and why ocular diseases in captive mouse lemurs may occur. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of known ocular findings in mouse lemurs. It summarizes the frequency of ocular findings in captive mouse lemur colonies and points to their likely causes and treatment options based on the evidence available from other animals and humans. In addition, it shall be discussed whether age or genetic background may affect their development. This review may be used as a reference for future studies which require an assessment of visual performance in mouse lemurs and help to evaluate observed clinical signs and ocular diseases. Furthermore, the high incidence of specific diseases may provide new perspectives and set the groundwork for a new animal model for ocular research.
Comparative study of biocorrective protein-peptide agent to improve quality and safety of livestock products
Authors: Chernukha Irina Mikhailovna , Fedulova Liliya Vyacheslavovna , Vasilevskaya Ekaterina Romanovna , Kotenkova Elena Alexandrovna
Published: October 2017

Water with modified isotopic composition (D/H = 40 ppm) as a solubilizing agent for biologically active substances extraction from immune organs Sus Scrofa increases protein yield in thymus to 20%, in spleen up to 38%, mesenteric lymph nodes up to 35% in comparison with distilled water (D/H = 150 ppm). It was found a significant amount of neurotransmitter amino acids, such as aspartic and glutamic acids, glycine (thymus - 10.5; 13.7; 7.6%; spleen - 12.2; 10.7; 7.8% lymph nodes - 11.0; 13.3; 11.1%, respectively) having the immunological and adaptogenic activity, in extracts of Sus scrofa immunocompetent organs (thymus, spleen, mesenteric lymph nodes). Application of water with modified isotopic composition as solubilizing agent (D / H = 40 ppm) for extraction of immunocompetent organs' biologically active compounds led to increased amino acid content, including hydrophilic amino acids, in thymus extracts - up to 22%, in spleen extracts - up to 15% , in lymph nodes exctracts - up to 8%, in comparison to distilled water (D / H = 150 ppm). Peptide profile analysis revealed positive effect of water (D/H = 40 ppm) on a quality protein content extracts in molecular weight range from 10 to 20 kDa and from 30 to 45 kDa and peptide composition (2 kDa), at the same time quantitative content of compounds adaptogenic and immunocorrective action increased. Reducing of deuterium content in the solubilizing agent enhances quantitative amino acid content, i.e. extraction in an aqueous- salt solution based on deuterium depleted water of animal tissues with a high content of amino acids with hydrophilic radicals proceeded more completely.
Authentication of caprine milk and cheese by commercial qPCR assay
Authors: Fekete Tomáš , Šnirc Marek , Belej Ľubomí­r , Židek Radoslav , Golian Jozef , Haščí­k Peter , Zeleňáková Lucia , Zajác Peter
Published: October 2017

The objective of the study was to investigate potential adulteration of commercial caprine milks and cheeses with bovine milk using commercial qPCR assay. The assay comprised of bovine-, ovine- and caprine-specific primers and TaqMan probe and mammalian internal control. Specificity, sensitivity, linearity, reproducibility and efficiency of the bovine assay were tested as well. Specificity was verified by running reaction on the DNA of other milk-producing species (caprine and ovine) and made-up bovine-caprine (v/v) milk mixes. In both experiments, a bovine DNA fragment was amplified whereas no amplification was obtained from the other species. Sensitivity, linearity, reproducibility and efficiency were tested on 10-fold dilution series of 10 ng bovine DNA. The assay has shown good linearity (R2 = 0.983) within whole range, with efficiency of 86% and excellent reproducibility (SD around the CT for the technical replicates <0.5). The sensitivity was adequate, as calculated LOD and LOQ were 1.44 pg and 2.94 pg of bovine DNA, respectively. Finally, the assay was used to authenticate 5 caprine milk samples and 5 caprine cheese samples, purchased from local supermarkets. Totally, 1 milk sample has shown the fluorescence signal, which exceeded baseline in cycle 39.01 ±0.69. However, the signal was above LOD and LOQ suggesting that there could not be unambiguously declared any adulteration with bovine milk. Amplification of bovine-specific DNA was not observed in the other samples indicating products were not adulterated. The commercial qPCR assay has proved that real-time PCR assays, as well as DNA-based techniques in a general, are the excellent and reliable tools for fighting with frauds in the food industry and protecting the public health.
Effect of thyme and oregano aqueous tea infusions on the lipid oxidation and sensory characteristics of frankfurkters sausages
Authors: Kročko Miroslav , Bobko Marek , Ducková Viera , Čanigová Margita , Haščí­k Peter , Tkáčová Jana
Published: October 2017

Lipid oxidation is one of the main limiting factors for the quality and acceptability of frankfurkter type of sausages. The antioxidant activity has been measured using a TBA assay. Dried oregano (Origanum vulgare) and thyme (Thymus vulgare) were purchased from a local store and kept in dark until the use. Aqueous extracts were prepared by one-step extraction with 3 g of each pulverized plant. Samples of freshly cooked sausages were evaluated by a 6 member semi-trained panel of laboratory co-workers. Panelists evaluate appearance overall texture, flavour, aroma and overall acceptability on a 6 point hedonic scale. In this work the antimicrobial and antioxidant effect of Thymus vulgare and Origanum vulgare significantly reduced (p <0.05) lipid oxidation in frankfurkters sausages on 10th day of aerobic storage. The organoleptic changes in sausages had no negative effect on the sensory value of cooked sausages. Results obtained in this work indicated the technical viability of using the oregano and thyme aqueous tea infusions in relative low concentration, which is possible to enlarge the shelf-life of fresh sausages with the desired slight alteration of the original taste parameters. Results indicate that thyme and oregano aqueous tea infusions compare to essential oils can be cheaper alternative incorporate into pork frankfurkters as natural antioxidants.
Medical Testing: Nursing, Sympathy, and Moral Code in Edith Wharton'sThe Fruit of the Tree
Authors: Slatus Kerri
Published: October 2017

This article interrogates the concepts of morality and sentimentality in Wharton's early novel. Through the use of a nurse, who exists in a liminal position at the turn of the century as representative of women's morality as well as helper to modernizing physicians, Wharton stages a discussion on sympathy and morality in medicine, and whether there is a chance to move progressive ideas forward. As the second half of the novel reveals, this revised sympathy the protagonist espouses is condemned when she carries out the act of euthanasia to end a character's suffering. Rather than physicians and others looking forward to a modernist morality, they often return to a nineteenth-century conception of sentimentality. Wharton's novel experiments with new conceptions of moral code, and expresses disappointment in the failure of its progress.
A Moment's Ornament, for Popular Consumption: The Illustration and Presentation ofThe House of Mirth
Authors: Wells Juliette
Published: October 2017

That Edith Wharton disliked A. B. Wenzell's illustrations for The House of Mirth has long been recognized, and the images themselves have received critical attention. Virtually unknown, however, are the negotiations regarding illustration and presentation that took place among Wharton and her editors and publishers at Scribner's during this novel's preparation for serial and hardcover publication. Drawing on the Scribner's archives, I uncover the process via which Wharton, Edward L. Burlingame, William Crary Brownell, and Charles Scribner II determined the look of this novel in all its published forms: the eleven installments in Scribner's Magazine, each accompanied by an illustration; the 1905 hardcover, which included only eight illustrations; and the twelve “pictureless” copies of the latter that were custom-bound for Wharton. The files of the Scribner's art department contribute further hitherto-unknown information about the media of Wenzell's artworks and the fees he earned. Wharton's views on illustration and promotion, I argue, were closely tied to her sense of herself as a literary author, and were treated respectfully by her publishers even as they sought to balance her preferences with commercial imperatives.
Sobre lo "científico", lo ético" y lo "fáctico". Ensayando una crítica a la teoría económica neoclásica
Authors: Escobar Beatriz
Published: October 2017

Neoclassic economic theory claims that is possible to build a perfect society based on free market. Its partisans also claim that only their theory can be considered scientific. This makes evident the need to criticize it. lt is necessary to criticize neoclassic theory for it wants to condemn the utopía of a world with justice.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 114, 2007: 555-577
La homogenización de la cultura de lo femenino y de la imagen de la mujer a través de la oferta televisiva estadounidense de los últimos cincuenta años
Authors: Guzmán Velasco Nataly
Published: October 2017

This work analyzes the feminine image in American TV series. The most: representative programs in each decade are reviewed, for they describe different trends on the construction of feminine subject.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 114, 2007: 621-641
José Jorge Simán: Monseñor Óscar Armulfo Romero y Galdámez. Un testimonio; Miguel León Portilla: Visión de los vencidos. Relaciones indígenas de la conquista
Authors: Alvarenga Luis
Published: October 2017

No abstracts availableRealidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 114, 2007: 655-657
La cultura del consumo
Authors: Zamora José A.
Published: October 2017

Current society is characterized as "consumer society". Consumption embraces the life of persons as a whole, configuring a culture of consumption. The following essay studies this phenomenon from the perspectives of sociology, psychology, anthropology and ethics.Realidad: Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 114, 2007: 513-553
Análisis y actualidad del fascismo
Authors: Ribera Ricardo
Published: October 2017

Fascism, seen under the ligth of history  and critical analysis, is a contemporary issue in the extent that the conditions that made possible its rise after the World War I are currently present. A better comprehension of those conditions must make it possible to understand the risks that the world is facing in the beginning of 21st century and to avoid the return of facism to the ground of effective politics. This essay aims to a theoretical and analytic effort in this direction. This is also a warning that the barbarism of fascism can return, destroying the hopes of our times.Revista de Ciencias Sociales y Humanidades No. 114, 2007: 595-619
Attributes of a Magnetic work environment, and its relation to work stress among nursing staff at Children’s Cancer Hospital Egypt (CCHE 57357)
Authors: Ibrahem Sanaa Abdel-Azeem , Aly Rasha Ibrahim El-Sayed
Published: October 2017

Background: The Magnet hospital is the hospital that implements specific organizational attributes in order to achieve a high quality of care through well-qualified and committed nursing staff.Aim of the study: The study was aimed at studying attributes of the Magnetic work environment, and its relation to work stress among nursing staff.Methods: Setting: It was carried out in the children’s cancer hospital, Egypt. Design: Using a descriptive correlational design. Subjects: Consisted of 172 nursing staff. Tools and procedure: two different self-administered tools were utilized (Magnet attributes questionnaire, and stress questionnaire). The fieldwork lasted from April to July 2016.Results: The study revealed that the highest percentage of nursing staff aged between 20 and 30 years. Nearly two thirds (64%) were having a bachelor degree in nursing. Total attributes of work environment were available with strength. 96.6% of nursing staff recorded low scores of stress.Conclusions: The nursing staff in the study setting considered “total attributes of Magnet work environment” as an area of strength. The total scores of stress were generally low. Statistically significant negative correlations were revealed between the scores of total Magnet attributes and stress.Recommendations: It is a matter of priority for Egyptian children’s cancer hospital to enhance and promote the development and maintenance of Magnetism and taking the lead in promoting the status of Magnetism in Egypt.
The healthcare system in Saudi Arabia: How can we best move forward with funding to protect equitable and accessible care for all?
Authors: Al-Hanawi Mohammed Khaled
Published: October 2017

The Saudi Arabian healthcare system is currently undergoing a process of reform. While it previously adopted a universal access approach in which all health care was provided free-of-charge to citizens at the point of care, this has been identified as unsustainable into the future. The shift towards an ageing population and the increasing burden of chronic disease, along with increasing use of technology and development of expensive treatments, mean that health care costs in Saudi Arabia are likely to increase significantly in the near future. Therefore, new ways to fund healthcare have been explored, with the solution proposed being a social insurance model in which employment contributions pay for care. This study seeks to identify the different alternatives which are available to the Saudi government and investigate the outcomes of these alternatives in their respective countries of use. The study examined the private insurance system in the United States of America, the social insurance system in Australia, the United Kingdom’s National Health Service, and the Public Private Partnership adopted by Singapore. It would seem that the Singaporean model is associated with the lowest level of government spending to maintain a high quality of patient care. However, further in-depth analysis is required to better understand how this model would apply to the Saudi Arabian context.