bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deterministic Concept Drift Detection in Ensemble Classifier Based Data Stream Classification Process
Authors: Abdualrhman Mohammed Ahmed Ali , Padma M C
Published: October 2018

The data in streaming environment tends to be non-stationary. Hence, frequent and irregular changes occur in data, which usually denotes as a concept drift related to the process of classifying data streams. Depiction of the concept drift in traditional phase of data stream mining demands availability of labelled samples; however, incorporating the label to a streamlining transaction is infeasible in terms of process time and resource utilization. In this article, deterministic concept drift detection (DCDD) in ensemble classifier-based data stream classification process is proposed, which can depict a concept drift regardless of the labels assigned to samples. The depicted model of DCDD is evaluated by experimental study on dataset called poker-hand. The experimental result showing that the proposed model is accurate and scalable to detect concept drift with high drift detection rate and minimal false alarming and missing rate that compared to other contemporary models.
A Self Organizing Map Intrusion Detection System for RPL Protocol Attacks
Authors: Kfoury Elie , Saab Julien , Younes Paul , Achkar Roger
Published: October 2018

Routing over low power and lossy networks (RPL) is a standardized routing protocol for constrained Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) environments. The main node's constraints include processing capability, power, memory, and energy. RPL protocol describes how WSN nodes create a mesh topology, enabling them to route sensor data. Unfortunately, various attacks exist on the RPL protocol that can disrupt the topology and consume nodes' energy. In this article, the authors propose an intrusion detection system (IDS) based on self-organizing map (SOM) neural network to cluster the WSN routing attacks, and hence notify the system administrator at an early stage, reducing the risk of interrupting the network and consuming nodes' power. Results showed that the proposed SOM architecture is able to cluster routing packets into three different types of attacks, as well as clean data.
Assessing the Level of Physical Activity in the Workplace
Authors: Narváez Pedro , Manjarrés José , Percybrooks Winston , Pardo Mauricio , Calle Maria
Published: October 2018

Occupational hygiene requires evaluation of different risk sources in the workplace. The level of physical workload may create stress, fatigue and injuries. Therefore, activity monitoring provides valuable information for companies in assessing and solving possible hazards in the workplace. The article presents a system using wearable technology to monitor and evaluate physical workload with in situ measurements. The system uses a smartwatch and a mobile application for Android phones. During workload monitoring, the application displays physiologic variables such as heart rate, calories, body temperature, galvanic skin response and number of steps. Additionally, the system computes absolute and relative cardiac cost, and Frimat coefficients. Tests were performed on 10 individuals from a janitor staff (5 men and 5 women), monitoring every task during their most demanding hour. Results agree with the type of activity developed in different intervals, showing light and very light workload for different tasks in all workers.
Plastic Diffraction-Limited Wide-Angle Air-Spaced Cooke Triplet Lens Designs for SWIR Imaging Applications: Image Quality Analysis Using Zemax®
Authors: Alaruri Sami D.
Published: October 2018

In this study, the optical performance of plastic (acrylic-polycarbonate-acrylic, acrylic-polystyrene-acrylic, PMMA-polycarbonate-PMMA, and PMMA-polystyrene-PMMA) diffraction-limited air-spaced Cooke triplet lens designs optimized for the spectral range 0.995 to 1.01 µm are presented. Comparing the acrylic-polycarbonate-acrylic air-spaced Cooke triplet lens design with the other three plastic lens designs, the obtained results indicate that the acrylic-polycarbonate-acrylic design can achieve the best image quality performance at 50% contrast 56 cycles/mm and Strehl ratio= 0.989 for the on-axis field-of-view (FOV= 0°). Furthermore, over the temperature range 18.30 to 22.25 °C and over +12° FOV the acrylic-polycarbonate-acrylic air-spaced Cooke triplet lens design performance remained diffraction-limited (Strehl ratio < 0.8). The low cost and the light weight of plastic optical components makes them attractive for several industrial applications. As an example, plastic lenses are incorporated into cell phone cameras and LED collimation optics.
Corporate Sustainability Reporting and Disclosure on the Web
Authors: Raghupathi Viju , Raghupathi Wullianallur
Published: October 2018

Sustainability reporting is now a best practice for most companies around the world. The Web, with its advanced technologies enables companies to create a positive impact on stakeholder perceptions of transparency in reporting. Using empirical data from websites of companies in the Dow Jones Industrial Average, the authors analyze design and content of sustainability information. We conclude that while nearly all companies provide routine content disclosure using minimal web design features, they stop short of issuing a proactive display of compliance and due diligence content. Companies with higher Newsweek Green Ranking scores employ better disclosure than others. This asymmetry in self-governance arises from a combination of factors, including low level of transparency, incomplete information, and a lack of comparability of sustainability reports. The authors develop a prescriptive framework to help companies improve their web sites by including more content that reflects due diligence and transparency for sustainability.
A New Hybrid Support Vector Machine Ensemble Classification Model for Credit Scoring
Authors: Yao Jian-Rong , Chen Jia-Rui
Published: October 2018

Credit scoring plays important role in the financial industry. There are different ways employed in the field of credit scoring, such as the traditional logistic regression, discriminant analysis, and linear regression; methods used in the field of machine learning include neural network, k-nearest neighbors, genetic algorithm, support vector machines (SVM), decision tree, and so on. SVM has been demonstrated with good performance in classification. This paper proposes a new hybrid RF-SVM ensemble model, which uses random forest to select important variables, and employs ensemble methods (bagging and boosting) to aggregate single base models (SVM) as a robust classifier. The experimental results suggest that this new model could achieve effective improvement, and has promising potential in the field of credit scoring.
ACQUA E IRRIGAZIONE PER NUTRIRE IL PIANETA. LA REALTÃ€ DELLA PIANURA PADANA LOMBARDA
Authors: Gandolfi Claudio
Published: October 2018

The plain areas of Lombardy are part of a territorial context, such as that of the Po Valley, which is the main in Italy and among the most important in Europe for quantity and quality of agricultural and food production. What further contributes to the exceptional nature of these areas is the historical legacy linked to the development of agricultural activities, which finds one of its clearest and most important evidences in the extraordinary development of canals and irrigation artifacts since the Middle Ages. The diversions from the main rivers, with the extensive network of canals that they originate, have contributed to modeling the territory and shaping the Lombard landscape. The current arrangement of irrigation systems has, therefore, unique features and many positive aspects. On the other hand, one must recognize that the presence of many obsolete infrastructures, the sedimentation of ancient rights and the excessive fragmentation of management bodies are negative elements, particularly in some areas. Investments in the innovation of both the infrastructures and of their management are therefore needed, but it is equally indispensable to deploy an incisive planning action at the regional level, which addresses them clearly towards precise objectives, on which some proposals are put forward in this paper.
SALUTO DEL PRESIDENTE DELLâ€™ISTITUTO LOMBARDO
Authors: Beretta Silvio
Published: October 2018

Non disponibile.
DALLA SEROTONINA E DOPAMINA ALLA TERAPIA DELLâ€™OBESITÃ€
Authors: O. Carruba Michele
Published: October 2018

Following development of pharmacological science in the last three decades, we started with brain studies aimed to characterize the role of serotonin and dopamine systems in feeding behaviour, by using traditional pharmacological approaches, such as injection of stimulatory and/or inhibitory drugs and monitoring the consequent behavioral changes. Then, we tried more physiological approaches to study serotonin system, by modulating its effects through special diets, thus proposing a new concept in nutritional pharmacology, in particular in the treatment of feeding disorders. Then, we focused to the study of obesity, by highlighting the multi-factorial approaches that, in addition to drugs, require an integration of other biological and psychological dimension, such as life style changes and cultural education, in treatment of this and related disorders.
PAOLO MANTEGAZZA: OLTRE LA SCIENZA
Authors: Andreoli Vittorio
Published: October 2018

Even a scientist is a man, and to reduce him down to what he has attained in research labs is not fair. A manâ€™s existence is much richer, composed of relationships and feelings and these relationships have an effect even on the rationality of which the scientific methodology is based. For this reason, after many have described the scientist Mantegazza, I wanted to illustrate his personal characteristics. And it is so that a portrait of a great man transpired, an example not to be forgotten, a great professor of pharmacology.
MANTEGAZZA E GLI STUDENTI UNIVERSITARI NEGLI ANNI â€™89-â€™95
Authors: Brugnaro Francesco Giovanni
Published: October 2018

With his report, Mons. Francesco Giovanni Brugnaro, Archbishop of Camerino - San Severino Marche, offers a personal testimony of his experience as a priest, friend and colleague of the Rectoral Prof. Paolo Mantegazza, who he met in the years â€˜89-â€™95 during his chaplain service at the Rectory of Santa Maria Annunciata of the University of Milan. In addition to the affectionate and grateful remembrance towards the exemplary role of rector, father and teacher, he adds some characteristics regarding the relationship that Prof. Mantegazza knew to weave with the university students, careful to consider the person as a whole rather than as a subject impersonal and anonymous. This special attention stemmed from the profound conviction that education is much more than simple teaching. He introduced in his long experience as a teacher the one that transformed his courses into real schools of life: the human and ethical contribution to face the most difficult future challenges in the professional field. For this reason he was also a great mediator for the very talented teachers to keep the relationship between scientific and didactic research high, between the quality of the preparation for the doctorate-specialization and the moral and methodological seriousness of the future professional. In the memory of Mons. Brugnaro, the pain that struck the Mantegazza family for the tragic and premature disappearance of the two beloved sons is preserved. Inspired also by Don Giussaniâ€™s charism, together with his wife Andreina, he was able to transform that lacerating pain into an exemplary witness of Christian life founded on the Resurrection of Christ. The common attendance of the Archbishop of Milan from 1979 to 2002, allowed both to live a daily faith, drawn from the prophetic vision of the biblical pastoral of Card. Martini also within the University, stimulating the chair of non-believers.
TESTIMONIANZE
Authors: Dionigi Renzo
Published: October 2018

Not available.
SALUTO DEL PRESIDENTE DELLâ€™ASSOCIAZIONE ITALIANA DI MECCANICA TEORICA E APPLICATA (AIMETA)
Authors: Luchini Paolo
Published: October 2018

Not available.
STRUCTURAL MECHANICS: HOW COMPUTERS AFFECTED IT
Authors: Corradi Dellâ€™acqua Leone
Published: October 2018

The advent of electronic computation had a profound effect on many aspects of present life and, obviously, structural mechanics also was affected. The impact was so significant that some researchers predicted a sort of revolution, the advent of a â€œdiscreteâ€ mechanics that would replace the traditional continuum formulation. A few years have elapsed since then and we can state that that such a revolution did not occur as yet. Nevertheless, structural mechanics did not remain unaltered: computations gave rise to a critical review of some aspects which certainly did not alter the foundations of the field, but contributed to clarify some points and improve the overall picture under some respect.
DYNAMICS AND STABILITY: A LONG HISTORY FROM EQUILIBRIUM TO DYNAMICAL INTEGRITY
Authors: Lenci Stefano , Maracci Diletta
Published: October 2018

This work is aimed at reporting a personal, and thus partial, history of the dynamics and stability concepts within the framework of classical mechanics. The idea is to introduce these concepts without using mathematics and formula, but rather through practical and clear examples. For this purpose, it has been chosen to take in consideration some simple dynamic phenomena that we are used to live with, but that are able to explain more complex concepts. The paper starts with a brief summary on equilibrium concept evolution, passes through stability problems and arrives to more advanced concepts, such as structural stability and dynamical integrity.
Vitamin D and its receptor polymorphisms: New possible prognostic biomarkers in leukemias
Authors: Pezeshki Seyed Mohammad Sadegh , Asnafi Ali Amin , Khosravi Abbas , Shahjahani Mohammad , Azizidoost Shirin , Shahrabi Saeid
Published: October 2018

Several factors such as chromosomal translocations, gene mutations, and polymorphisms are involved in the pathogenesis of leukemia/lymphoma. Recently, the role of vitamin D (VD) and vitamin D receptor (VDR) polymorphisms in hematologic malignancies has been considered. In this review, we examine the possible role of VD levels, as well as VDR polymorphisms as prognostic biomarkers in leukemia/lymphoma. Relevant English language literature were searched and retrieved from Google Scholar search engine (1985-2017). The following keywords were used: vitamin D, vitamin D receptor, leukemia, lymphoma, and polymorphism. Increased serum levels of VD in patients with leukemia are associated with a better prognosis. However, low VD levels are associated with a poor prognosis, and VDR polymorphisms in various leukemias can have prognostic value. VD biomarker can be regarded as a potential prognostic factor for a number of leukemias, including acute myeloblastic leukemia (AML), chronic lymphoblastic leukemia (CLL), and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). There is a significant relationship between different polymorphisms of VDR (including Taq I and Fok I) with several leukemia types such as ALL and AML, which may have prognostic value.
Assessment of variations in sphenoid sinus pneumatization in Indian population: A multidetector computed tomography study
Authors: Hiremath Shivaprakash B , Gautam Amol B , Sheeja Keerthy , Benjamin Geena
Published: October 2018

Background and Purpose: The purpose of our study was to assess the prevalence of variations in the extent of sphenoid pneumatization in the Indian population and compare with existing literature. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 500 patients who underwent CT of the paranasal sinuses. The multiplanar reformations of paranasal sinus were assessed for the type of pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus and type of clival, lateral recess, lesser wing, and anterior recess extensions. Results: The conchal, presellar, incomplete sellar, and complete sellar types comprised 0%, 1.2%, 22.2%, and 76.6% of patients. The extensions of pneumatization subtypes in the study population were clival in 76.6% subjects; lateral recess, lesser wing, and anterior recess in 59.7%, 20.4%, and 20.4% of sinuses, respectively. The pure forms were seen in 25.4% and combined forms in 61% of sinuses. The presellar type (1.2%) was less common and sellar type (98.8%) being common in our population compared to the Caucasian and East Asian population. The sphenoid sinuses were extensively pneumatized in our population compared to the Chinese and Caucasian population, the prevalence being 76.6%, 68%, and 44.5% for clival; 59.7%, 46%, and 28.3% for lateral recess; 20.4%, 32%, and 12% for lesser wing extension, respectively. The pure forms were relatively less common and combined forms being more common compared to the Chinese and Caucasian population in our study. Conclusion: The extent of pneumatization of the sphenoid sinus has clinical and surgical implications in sellar and central skull base lesions, and variability in different populations confirms that ethnicity influences the differences in prevalence.
Rezensionen
Authors: Jolissaint Paul , Schneebeli H. R.
Published: October 2018

Rezensionen zu:
Burkard Polster, Marty Ross:
Math goes to the movies
. xiv+286 pages, $ 38. Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore 2012; ISBN 978-1-4214-0484-4,
von Paul Jolissaint;
und zu:
Walser, Hans:
EAGLE-Starthilfe
, Kartografie. 88 Seiten, CHF 11.60, Edition am Gutenbergplatz Leipzig EAGLE, 2016, EAGLE 098, ISBN 978-3-95922-098-9,
von H. R. Schneebeli.
Methodology for the development of an ontology network on the Brazilian national system for the evaluation of higher education (ONTOSINAES)
Authors: Silva Cleiton , Belo Olando , Barros Victor F A
Published: October 2018

Ontologies occupy a central position in any conceptual model of the Semantic Web, aiming fundamentally to add explicit semantics to the contents available in the Web. In the domain of Brazilian higher education, especially with regard to the National System for the Evaluation of Higher Education (SINAES), still lacks a reference ontology that can provide a basic conceptualization common to the different stakeholders of the domain. In this work we discuss the role of an ontology network developed with the purpose of improving the quality of the data produced by the different actors, institutions and systems within the domain of SINAES, in addition to facilitating their publication as open and connected data. In particular, we highlight the importance of the NeOn methodology to be followed during the development of an ontology network, demonstrating its role in defining the life cycle and in the articulation of the various processes and activities in the OntoSINAES ontological network development process.
Characterization of nighttime formation of particulate organic nitrates based on high-resolution aerosol mass spectrometry in an urban atmosphere in China
Authors: Yu Kuangyou , Zhu Qiao , Du Ke , Huang Xiao-Feng
Published: October 2018

Abstract. Organic nitrates are important atmospheric species that significantly affect the cycling of NOx and ozone production. However, characterization of particulate organic nitrates and their sources in inorganic nitrate-abundant particles in polluted atmosphere is a big challenge, and has been little performed in the literature. In this study, an Aerodyne high-resolution time-of-flight aerosol mass spectrometer (HR-ToF-AMS) was deployed at an urban site in South China from 2015 to 2016 to characterize particulate organic nitrates with high time resolution. Based on two different data processing methods, 13–21 % of the total measured nitrates was identified to be organic nitrates in spring, 41–64 % in summer and 16%–25 % in autumn; however, in winter, most measured nitrates were inorganic. The good correlation between organic nitrates and fresh secondary organic aerosol identified by the positive matrix factorization method at night rather than in the daytime indicated a potentially important role of nighttime secondary formation. Therefore, we theoretically estimated nighttime NO3 radical concentrations and SOA formation using the various VOCs measured simultaneously. Consequently, the calculated products of monoterpene reacting with NO3 agreed well with the organic nitrates in terms of both concentration and variation, suggesting that the biogenic VOC reactions with NO3 at night are the dominant formation pathway for particulate organic nitrates in polluted atmosphere, despite of much higher abundance of anthropogenic VOCs.
In-cloud formation of secondary species in iron-containing particles
Authors: Lin Qinhao , Bi Xinhui , Zhang Guohua , Yang Yuxiang , Peng Long , Lian Xiufeng , Fu Yuzhen , Li Mei , Chen Duohong , Miller Mark , Ou Ji , Tang Mingjin , Wang Xinming , Peng Ping'an , Sheng Guoying , Zhou Zhen
Published: October 2018

Abstract. The increase of secondary species through cloud processing potentially increases aerosol iron (Fe) bioavailability. In this study, a ground-based counterflow virtual impactor coupled with a real-time single-particle aerosol mass spectrometer was used to characterize the formation of secondary species in Fe-containing cloud residues (dried cloud droplets) at a mountain site in southern China for nearly one month during the autumn of 2016. Fe-rich, Fe-dust, Fe-elemental carbon (Fe-EC), and Fe-vanadium (Fe-V) cloud residual types were obtained in this study. The Fe-rich particles, related to combustion sources, contributed 84 % to the Fe-containing cloud residues, and the Fe-dust particles represented 12 %. The remaining 4 % consisted of the Fe-EC and Fe-V particles. It was found that extremely high amounts of sulfate had already accumulated on the Fe-containing particles before cloud events, leading to no distinct changes in sulfate during cloud events. Cloud processing contributed to the enhancement of nitrate, chloride, and oxalate in the Fe-containing cloud residues. However, the in-cloud formation of nitrate and chloride in the Fe-rich type was less obvious relative to the Fe-dust type. The enhancement of oxalate in the Fe-rich cloud residues was produced via aqueous oxidation of oxalate precursors (e.g., glyoxylate). Moreover, Fe chemistry involved in the Fenton reaction further promoted the conversion of the oxalate precursors to oxalate during cloud events, although the photolysis of Fe-oxalate complexes also existed in the Fe-rich cloud residues. This work emphasizes the role of combustion Fe sources in participating in cloud processing and has important implications for evaluating Fe bioavailability from combustion sources during cloud processing.
Size-resolved online chemical analysis of nanoaerosol particles: a thermal desorption differential mobility analyzer coupled to a chemical ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer
Authors: Wagner Andrea C. , Bergen Anton , Brilke Sophia , Fuchs Claudia , Ernst Markus , Hoker Jesica , Heinritzi Martin , Simon Mario , Bühner Bertram , Curtius Joachim , Kürten Andreas
Published: October 2018

Abstract. A new method for size-resolved chemical analysis of nucleation
mode aerosol particles (size range from ∼10 to ∼30 nm) is presented. The Thermal Desorption Differential Mobility Analyzer
(TD-DMA) uses an online, discontinuous principle. The particles are charged,
a specific size is selected by differential mobility analysis and they are
collected on a filament by electrostatic precipitation. Subsequently, the
sampled mass is evaporated in a clean carrier gas and analyzed by a chemical
ionization mass spectrometer. Gas-phase measurements are performed with the
same mass spectrometer during the sampling of particles. The characterization
shows reproducible results, with a particle size resolution of 1.19 and the
transmission efficiency for 15 nm particles being slightly above 50 %. The
signal from the evaporation of a test substance can be detected starting from
0.01 ng and shows a linear response in the mass spectrometer. Instrument
operation in the range of pg m−3 is demonstrated by an example
measurement of 15 nm particles produced by nucleation from dimethylamine,
sulfuric acid and water.
Coastal primary productivity changes over the last millennium: a case study from the Skagerrak (North Sea)
Authors: Binczewska Anna , Risebrobakken Bjørg , Polovodova Asteman Irina , Moros Matthias , Tisserand Amandine , Jansen Eystein , Witkowski Andrzej
Published: October 2018

Abstract. A comprehensive multi-proxy study on two sediment cores from the western and
central Skagerrak was performed in order to detect the variability and causes
of marine primary productivity changes in the investigated region over the
last 1100 years. The cores were dated by Hg pollution records and AMS
14C dating and analysed for palaeoproductivity proxies such as total
organic carbon, δ13C, total planktonic foraminifera, benthic
foraminifera (total assemblages as well as abundance of Brizalina skagerrakensis and other palaeoproductivity taxa) and palaeothermometers
such as Mg∕Ca and δ18O. Our results reveal two periods with changes
in productivity in the Skagerrak region: (i) a moderate productivity at
∼ CE 900–1700 and (ii) a high productivity at ∼ CE 1700–present. During ∼ CE 900–1700, moderate
productivity was likely driven by the nutrients transported with the warm
Atlantic water inflow associated with a tendency for a persistent positive
NAO phase during the warm climate of the Medieval Climate Anomaly, which
continues into the LIA until ∼ CE 1450. The following lower and
more variable temperature period at ∼ CE 1450–1700 was
likely caused by a reduced contribution of warm Atlantic water, but stronger
deep-water renewal, due to a generally more negative NAO phase and a shift to
the more variable and generally cooler climate conditions of the Little Ice
Age. The productivity and fluxes of organic matter to the seafloor did not
correspond to the temperature and salinity changes recorded in the benthic
Melonis barleeanus shells. For the period from ∼ CE 1700 to the
present day, our data point to an increased nutrient content in the Skagerrak
waters. This increased nutrient content was likely caused by enhanced inflow
of warm Atlantic water, increased Baltic outflow, intensified river runoff,
and enhanced human impact through agricultural expansion and industrial
development. Intensified human impact likely increased nutrient transport to
the Skagerrak and caused changes in the oceanic carbon isotope budget, known
as the Suess effect, which is clearly visible in our records as a negative
shift in δ13C values from ∼ CE 1800. In addition, a
high appearance of S. fusiformis during the last 70 years at both
studied locations suggests increased decaying organic matter at the sea floor
after episodes of enhanced primary production.
Trend analysis of the airborne fraction and sink rate of anthropogenically released CO2
Authors: Bennedsen Mikkel , Hillebrand Eric , Koopman Siem Jan
Published: October 2018

Abstract. Is the fraction of anthropogenically released CO2 that remains in the atmosphere increasing? Is the rate at which the ocean and land sinks take up CO2 from the atmosphere decreasing? We analyze these questions by means of a statistical dynamic multivariate model from which we estimate the unobserved trend processes together with the parameters that govern them. By assuming a balanced global carbon budget, we obtain more than one data series to measure the same object (for example, the airborne fraction). Incorporating these additional data into the dynamic multivariate model in effect increases the number of available observations, thus improving the reliability of parameter estimates. We find no statistical evidence of an increasing airborne fraction but we do find statistical evidence of a decreasing sink rate. We infer that the efficiency of the sinks to absorb CO2 from the atmosphere is decreasing at approximately 0.54 % per year.
Processes influencing heat transfer in the near-surface ice of Greenland's ablation zone
Authors: Hills Benjamin H. , Harper Joel T. , Meierbachtol Toby W. , Johnson Jesse V. , Humphrey Neil F. , Wright Patrick J.
Published: October 2018

Abstract. To assess the influence of various heat transfer processes on the
thermal structure of near-surface ice in Greenland's ablation zone, we
compare in situ measurements with thermal modeling experiments. A total of
seven temperature strings were installed at three different field sites,
each with between 17 and 32 sensors and extending up to 21 m below the
ice surface. In one string, temperatures were measured every 30 min, and
the record is continuous for more than 3 years. We use these measured
ice temperatures to constrain our modeling experiments, focusing on four
isolated processes and assessing the relative importance of each for the
near-surface ice temperature: (1) the moving boundary of an ablating surface,
(2) thermal insulation by snow, (3) radiative energy input, and (4) subsurface
ice temperature gradients below the seasonally active near-surface layer. In
addition to these four processes, transient heating events were observed in
two of the temperature strings. Despite no observations of meltwater
pathways to the subsurface, these heating events are likely the refreezing
of liquid water below 5–10 m of cold ice. Together with subsurface
refreezing, the five heat transfer mechanisms presented here account for
measured differences of up to 3 ∘C between the mean annual air
temperature and the ice temperature at the depth where annual temperature
variability is dissipated. Thus, in Greenland's ablation zone, the mean
annual air temperature is not a reliable predictor of the near-surface ice
temperature, as is commonly assumed.
Prácticas empresariales de innovación social en la gestión de la edad y su aplicación en el ámbito del cooperativismo
Authors: Serrano Argüeso Mariola , Ereñaga de Jesús Nerea
Published: October 2018

El WP5 del Proyecto Social Innovation: Driving Force of Social Change (SI DRIVE) evidencia que gran parte de la fuerza de trabajo europea se acerca a la edad de jubilación mientras que, al mismo tiempo, la disponibilidad de mano de obra especializada para reemplazar a los jubilados es escasa. Para hacer frente a este reto algunas empresas están llevando a cabo políticas de innovación en materia de gestión de la edad para el empleo y de gestión de la edad en el empleo. El estudio trata de identificar cuáles son las medidas en el ámbito empresarial y en especial, si esa preocupación está presente en el ámbito del cooperativismo vasco.
Knowledge, adherence to the treatment and prevalence of neuropathy in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Meléndez Méndez Concepción , Garza Hernández Rosalinda , González Salinas Juana Fernanda , Fang Huerta Ma de los Ángeles , Rangel Torres Ma del Socorro , Castañeda-Hidalgo Hortensia
Published: October 2018

Objective: Identify the level of knowledge, adherence and prevalence of diabetic neuropathy (NPD), determine the relationship between knowledge, adherence to treatment, time to suffer from the disease and the NPD in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who attend to control in four units of the health sector in Tampico and Cd. Madero Tamaulipas. To describe the sociodemographic characteristics of the patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus that attend control in four units of the health sector in Tampico and Cd. Madero Tamaulipas.Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional correlational study performed on a sample of 554 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who attended to control their disease in four health sector units in Tampico and Cd. Madero, Tamaulipas, the type of sampling was non-probabilistic for convenienceResults: 554 patients were surveyed, the mean age was 55 years, the mean time of diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus was 10 years, 61.9% were women, 62.8% were married, 34.5% were primary and 89.5% were belonged to the lower class. The level of knowledge was insufficient in 74% of the patients, the reported adherence was 75% in the middle level and the NPD prevalence in the period was 5.5, the relationship between knowledge and adherence and time of diagnosis was statistically verified prevalence of NPD.Conclusions: The results demonstrate the importance of education to patients since the knowledge of their disease contributes to the patient accepting and adhering to the treatment.
The Impact of Global Perceived Quality on the Behaviour of Automobile’s Consumers
Authors: Souki Gustavo Quiroga , Oliveira Rodrigo Luiz Pinheiro de , Isabella Giuliana , Silva Jersone Tasso Moreira
Published: October 2018

Purpose of the study: The objective of this work was to identify the perceived quality attributes of car owners and how these attributes affect satisfaction, regret, trust, pride and, word of mouth communication. Methodology / approach: There were two phases (qualitative and quantitative) in this study. In the qualitative phase, we conducted 20 in-depth interviews with car owners, with the purpose of identifying the perceived quality attributes by them. In the quantitative phase, we surveyed 311 owners of automobiles of different brands. For the statistical analysis, we opted to test the hypothetical model through Structural Equations Modeling (SEM). Main results: Results show that perceived quality among automobile consumers is a multidimensional construct (status and power, handling dynamics, corporate responsibility, brand heritage, resale value, durability, internal space, and trunk capacity) and impacts on satisfaction, regret, word of mouth communication, trust, and pride. Theoretical / methodological contributions: This research measures the perception of quality of automobiles in post-purchase situations, exploring not only attributes in service quality but also the product itself while exploring other dimensions from the quality-perception construct. Furthermore, it studied how the perception of quality affects behavioral dimensions beyond the satisfaction construct: regret, reliability, pride, and word-of-mouth communication. Relevance / originality: This work considered both physical attributes (e.g., internal space and trunk capacity) and, intangibles (e.g., Power and Status, Brand and company's tradition) perceived by car owners. Moreover, to investigate the perception of quality in service and product at the same time is not common in consumer behavior literature.
Varejo no Brasil – Resgate Histórico e Tendências
Authors: Varotto Luis Fernando
Published: October 2018

Objetivo: Este estudo faz um resgate histrico sobre a evoluo do varejo no Brasil, retratando a trajetria do comrcio varejista desde a descoberta do ouro no interior at os dias atuais, fazendo um paralelo entre as mudanas sociais, econmicas e polticas no pas e as transformaes por que passou o varejo no decorrer desse processo. Mtodo: O estudo foi desenvolvido por meio de extensa pesquisa bibliogrfica em livros, teses, dissertaes, artigos cientficos e peridicos nacionais e internacionais, sob uma perspectiva histrica e um formato cronolgico e descritivo, enfatizando momentos emblemticos para a evoluo varejista no Brasil. Originalidade/relevncia: Este estudo preenche uma lacuna na literatura de marketing sobre a histria do varejo no Brasil, contribuindo para o incremento de novas perspectivas de estudo na rea, lanando luzes sobre aspectos pouco conhecidos do varejo no Brasil. Resultados: O artigo retrata a trajetria do comrcio varejista no Brasil at os dias atuais, descrevendo a evoluo ao longo do tempo. O estudo mostra as transformaes que as novas tecnologias imprimem ao setor, evidenciando o entretenimento e a experincia de compra como os novos indutores para o varejo. Contribuies tericas/metodolgicas: A pesquisa em marketing e negcios sob a perspectiva histrica amplia as possibilidades de pesquisa por meio de novas fontes, problemas e abordagens, contribuindo para expandir as oportunidades de anlise e teorizao no ambiente organizacional. Preenche uma lacuna na literatura sobre varejo no Brasil, dada a escassez de estudos de cunho acadmico na rea de Cincias Sociais Aplicadas sobre o tema com uma perspectiva histrica.
Assessment of changes in the body composition in patients qualified for the operational treatment of the primary and metastatic liver tumors with the use of bioelectric impedance
Authors: Skroński Michał , Andrzejewska Marta , Fedosiejew Małgorzata , Ławiński Michał , Włodarek Dariusz , Ukleja Anna , Nyckowski Paweł , Słodkowski Maciej
Published: October 2018

Introduction: Resection is an optimal way of treatment of hepatic tumors and metastasis from another organ. The operational injury may influence on patients body composition examined by bioelectrical impedance (BIA). Analysis of parameters may be helpful in identifying early changes indicating of deterioration in nutritional status.
The aim of the study: was to assess changes in body composition of patients before and after resection of liver tumors and potential radiofrequency ablation of lesions.
Material and methods: The study included a group of 50 patients of the Department of General, Gastroenterological and Oncological Surgery, Medical University of Warsaw, who were qualified for radical surgical treatment of tumors within the liver. Data on water content, fat, muscle and cell mass were analyzed.
Results: Comparing data obtained from patients before and after intervention in the liver, statistically significant (p <0.05) loss of intracellular water, muscle mass, cell mass, as well as adipose tissue, was demonstrated. The phase angle value in these patients also significantly changed, decreasing by an average of 0.61°. On the other hand, the increase in content was noted in the case of extracellular water.
Conclusions: Surgical intervention within the liver causes noticeable, unfavorable changes in the body composition, as evidenced by the reduction in the value of muscle mass, as well as cellular mass, resulting in a decrease in the phase angle. Bioelectric impedance is a suitable method for assessing changes in body composition of patients undergoing liver resection and is useful in clinical practice. It is advisable to conduct further research in the group of patients undergoing invasive treatment of the liver due to: an increasing number of such operations and centers where this type of surgical intervention is performed.
Surgical instrument left inside abdomen
Authors: Modrzejewski Andrzej , Zamojska-Kościów Ewa , Tracz Edyta , Parafiniuk Mirosław
Published: October 2018

Leaving surgical instruments in the patient’s body is one of the most difficult situations in the professional career of an operator and it can also have severe consequences for the patient. Contrary to world literature, there are no reports of such incidents in Polish publications. Lack of such reports creates an illusion that leaving surgical instruments in the patient’s body does not happen in Poland, which is an unsubstantiated thesis. This paper presents two cases of leaving hemostats in the abdominal cavity. According to the authors, similar publications may facilitate critical assessment of the existing rules for inspecting instruments and surgical material by surgical teams. Importantly, confirming the compliance of instruments and material by surgical nurses is not the only criterion of assessment in this matter for the operator.
Elimination of Autofluorescence in Archival Formaldehyde-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded Bone Marrow Biopsies
Authors: Su Wenxia , Yang Lin , Luo Xueping , Chen Meng , Liu Jinqin
Published: October 2018

Context.—

High levels of autofluorescence in bone marrow tissue constitute a major obstacle to immunofluorescence analysis of bone marrow biopsies.

Objective.—

To present a simple, efficient method to eliminate autofluorescence in bone marrow biopsies.

Design.—

Autofluorescence of paraffin bone marrow tissues was examined in different hematologic disorders with confocal laser scanning microscopy. Strong autofluorescence was observed in primary myelofibrosis and acute leukemia with reticulin myelofibrosis in 488-nm and 561-nm channels. To eliminate autofluorescence, AutoFluo Quencher was used on bone marrow sections with different incubation times. The effects of AutoFluo Quencher on immunofluorescence analysis of bone marrow biopsies was tested using antibodies tagged with different fluorophores.

Results.—

AutoFluo Quencher thoroughly eliminated the strong autofluorescence of bone marrow but did not decrease the intensity of fluorophores, leaving the specific signals of target proteins clearly visible.

Conclusions.—

This study presents a simple, efficient method to eliminate autofluorescence in bone marrow paraffin tissue, and it opens the way to better results in the immunofluorescence analysis of bone marrow biopsies.
New NSF policy will stifle innovation
Authors: Eisthen Heather L ,   Concerned Biologists
Published: October 2018

A new proposal submission policy announced by the U.S. National Science Foundation Biology Directorate mandates that researchers can serve as principal investigator or co-PI on only one proposal per fiscal year to each of the core tracks of the Divisions of Environmental Biology, Integrative Organismal Systems, and Molecular and Cellular Biosciences. The rationale for the restriction is apparently to prevent rapid resubmission of declined proposals; however other NSF programs without deadlines simply prohibit rapid resubmission of proposals and some place no restrictions on submissions. We are deeply concerned that the new restrictions will damage biological research by limiting researchers’ ability to collaborate. In addition, the restrictions will exacerbate pressure on early-career colleagues who may turn to safe, fundable submissions rather than novel and transformative ideas. We write this letter in hopes of raising the alarm about this misguided and harmful new policy.
Patient-centered care interventions to reduce the inappropriate prescription and use of benzodiazepines and z-drugs: a systematic review
Authors: Mokhar Aliaksandra , Topp Janine , Härter Martin , Schulz Holger , Kuhn Silke , Verthein Uwe , Dirmaier Jörg
Published: October 2018

Background

Benzodiazepines (BZDs) and z-drugs are effective drugs, but they are prescribed excessively worldwide. International guidelines recommend a maximum treatment duration of 4 weeks. Although these drugs are effective in the short-term, long-term BZD therapy is associated with considerable adverse effects, the development of tolerance and, finally, addiction. However, there are different interventions in terms of patient-centered care that aim to reduce the use of BZDs and z-drugs as well as assist health care professionals (HCPs) in preventing the inappropriate prescription of BZDs.

Aim

The aim of this systematic review was to identify interventions that promote patient-centered treatments for inappropriate BZD and z-drug use and to analyze their effectiveness in reducing the inappropriate use of these drugs.

Methods

To identify relevant studies, the PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, Psyndex, and Cochrane Library databases were searched. Studies with controlled designs focusing on adult patients were included. Trials with chronically or mentally ill patients were excluded if long-term BZD and z-drug use was indicated. Study extraction was performed based on the Cochrane Form for study extraction. To assess the quality of the studies, we used a tool based on the Cochrane Collaboration’s tool for assessing the risk of bias in randomized trials.

Results

We identified 7,068 studies and selected 20 for systematic review. Nine interventions focused on patients, nine on HCPs, and two on both patients and HCPs. Intervention types ranged from simple to multifaceted. Patient-centered interventions that provided patient information effectively increased the appropriate use of BZDs. The educational approaches for HCPs that aimed to achieve appropriate prescription reported inconsistent results. The methods that combined informing patients and HCPs led to a significant reduction in BZD use.

Conclusions

This is the first review of studies focused on patient-centered approaches to reducing the inappropriate prescription and use of BZDs and z-drugs. The patient-centered dimension of patient information was responsible for a decrease in BZD and z-drug consumption. Further, in some studies, the patient-centered dimensions responsible for reducing the prescription and use of BZDs and z-drugs were the clinician’s essential characteristics and clinician-patient communication.
Influence of Particle Size Distribution of High Calcium Fly Ash on HVFA Mortar Properties
Authors: . Antoni , Wibawa Hendra Surya , Hardjito Djwantoro
Published: October 2018

This study evaluates the effect of particle size distribution (PSD) of high calcium fly ash on high volume fly ash (HVFA) mortar characteristics. Four PSD variations of high calcium fly ash used were: unclassified fly ash and fly ash passing sieve No. 200, No. 325 and No. 400, respectively. The fly ash replacement ratio of the cementitious material ranged between 50-70%. The results show that with smaller fly ash particles size and higher levels of fly ash replacement, the workability of the mixture was increased with longer setting time. There was an increase in mortar compressive strength with finer fly ash particle size, compared to those with unclassified ones, with the highest strength was found at those with fly ash passing mesh No. 325. The increase was found due to better compactability of the mixture. Higher fly ash replacement reduced the mortar’s compressive strength, however, the rate was reduced when finer fly ash particles was used.
Seismic Performance of Existing Building Retrofitted with VSL-Gensui Damper
Authors: Pudjisuryadi Pamuda , Lumantarna Benjamin , Hermawan Tjhai Ferlinda , Gunawan Teddy Tirta
Published: October 2018

Buildings designed using older code should be checked against the higher demand required by newer code. In this study, performance of Building T of Petra Christian University, Surabaya, Indonesia, which was designed with older Indonesian Seismic Code (PPTGIUG 1983) is investigated. The effectiveness of VSL-Gensui Damper application is also investigated as an effort to enhance the performance of the building. Nonlinear time history analysis was conducted to analyze the building. Spectrum consistent ground acceleration generated from El Centro 18 May 1940 North-South component in accordance to current seismic code was used for analysis. The result shows that the existing building cannot resist the demand specified by current code (SNI 1726:2012) as some frame element failures are detected. The performance is greatly enhanced after installation of VSL-Gensui Dampers. Roof story drift and displacement decreased as much as 9% and 14%, respectively as compared to existing building, and structural element failures were no longer observed.