bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fat-free Mass Characteristics of Muscular Physique Athletes
Authors: TINSLEY GRANT M. , GRAYBEAL AUSTIN J. , MOORE M. LANE , NICKERSON BRETT S.
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Simple body composition models, such as two-compartment models, use assumptions which may be violated in specific athletic populations (e.g., the constancy of fat-free mass density [DFFM] and hydration [TBW:FFM]). The present analysis examined FFM characteristics of muscular physique athletes.

Methods

Twenty-six athletes (16 males: 94.5 ± 9.9 kg, 12.2% ± 4.2% fat; 10 females: 63.8 ± 5.7 kg, 19.7% ± 4.9% fat) completed duplicate assessments of dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS), and single-frequency and multifrequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (SFBIA; MFBIA). Fat-free mass was calculated via five-compartment (5C) model, and FFM characteristics (i.e.,DFFM, TBW:FFM, FFM mineral, FFM protein) were compared between sexes and between the sample and reference values (RV) from cadaver analysis. TBWBIS:FFM5Cwas designated as the reference TBW:FFM model, and alternate models were produced using BIS, MFBIA, SFBIA, impedance-based equations, and DXA output.

Results

Males had lower TBW:FFM and FFM mineral, but higher FFM protein than females (P< 0.05).DFFMwas significantly lower than RV in males (1.096 ± 0.006 g·cm−3, RV: 1.103 ± 0.013 g·cm−3;P< 0.001) and appeared higher in females (1.093 ± 0.012 g·cm−3, RV: 1.087 ± 0.021 g·cm−3;P= 0.17). TBW:FFM did not differ from RV in females (75.3% ± 4.0%; RV, 75.7% ± 4.4%;P= 0.74) or males (72.7% ± 1.9%; RV, 72.7% ± 3.1%;P= 0.97). Fat-free mass mineral was lower than RV in males (5.5% ± 0.4%; RV, 6.8% ± 0.8%;P< 0.001) and higher in females (6.5% ± 0.5%; RV, 6.1% ± 0.8%;P= 0.04). Fat-free mass protein was significantly greater than RV in males (21.9% ± 1.8%; RV, 20.6% ± 2.6%;P= 0.014), but the difference from RV in females was not statistically significant (18.3% ± 4.1%; RV, 17.1% ± 4.5%;P= 0.39). Alternate TBW:FFM models varied substantially in their agreement with RV.

Conclusions

The FFM characteristics were shown to differ between male and female physique athletes. These results may have implications for optimal body composition assessment methods when atypical physique characteristics are present.
Recent advances and emerging therapies in the non-surgical management of ulcerative colitis
Authors: Wehkamp Jan , Stange Eduard F.
Published: August 2018

The so-called “biologicals” (monoclonal antibodies to various inflammatory targets like tumor necrosis factor or integrins) have revolutionized the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases. In ulcerative colitis, they have an established role in inducing remission in steroid-refractory disease and, thereafter, maintaining remission with or without azathioprine. Nevertheless, their limitations are also obvious: lack of primary response or loss of response during maintenance as well as various, in part severe, side effects. The latter are less frequent in anti-integrin treatment, but efficacy, especially during induction, is delayed. New antibodies as well as small molecules have also demonstrated clinical efficacy and are soon to be licensed for ulcerative colitis. None of these novel drugs seems to be much more effective overall than the competition, but they provide new options in otherwise refractory patients. This increasing complexity requires new algorithms, but it is still premature to outline each drug’s role in future treatment paradigms.
Increasing Epstein-Barr virus infection in Chinese children: A single institutional based retrospective study.
Authors: Devkota Kiran , He Maio , Liu Meng Yi , Li Yan , Zhang You Wei
Published: August 2018

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common virus in humans and the most common causative agent of Infectious Mononucleosis. EBV primary infection has recently risen in some countries and children below 2 years of age are highly susceptible. The clinical manifestations in children with EB virus infection involve multiple systems, causing severe illness, meaning attention should be paid during diagnosis and treatment.

Objective:  This single institution based retrospective study was carried out with the aim of estimating the overall prevalence of EBV infection and identifying high-risk age group among children. 

Methods: This study include total 253 patients under 15 years of age found to be  positive for EBV DNA by PCR who were admitted to the Pediatrics Department of Renmin Hospital,(Shiyan, China) during a 4-year period from 2014 to 2017. Patients were divided into three groups; 0-<4years, 4-<6years and 6-<15years. We then calculated the percentage and prevalence of EBV DNA-positive cases.

Results: The yearly EBV prevalence rate was 4.99 per 1000 admissions in 2014, 6.97 per 1000 admissions in 2015, 10.42 per 1000 admissions in 2016, and 12.16 per 1000 admissions in 2017. Out of 253 EBV-positive cases, those under 4 years had the highest rate of EBV infection (74.7%). The rate drops to 11.06% in the 4-6 years group, and was 14.22% in the 6-15 years group. Those between 6 months and 1 year are those at the highest risk. 

Conclusion: The rate of hospital admission of children due to EBV infection is increasing day by day. Children under 4 years of age are highly susceptible to infection and children of age between 6 months and 1 year are the high-risk group for EBV infection.
Learning from Your Friends’ Check-Ins: An Empirical Study of Location-Based Social Networks
Authors: Qiu Liangfei , Shi Zhan (Michael) , Whinston Andrew B.
Published: August 2018

Recently, mobile applications have offered users the option to share their location information with friends. Using data from a major location-based social networking application in China, we estimate an empirical model of restaurant discovery and observational learning. The unique feature of repeat customer visits in the data allows us to examine observational learning in trials and repeats and to separate it from non-informational confounding mechanisms, such as homophily, using a novel test based on the empirical model. The empirical evidence supports a strong observational learning effect. We also find that the moderating role of the geographical locations of users and their friends on the magnitude of observational learning is critical. These findings suggest a nuanced view for local merchants to boost observational learning with the advancement of location-based technology.

The online appendix is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/isre.2017.0769 .
Optimal Procurement Mechanisms for Assembly
Authors: Hu Bin , Qi Anyan
Published: August 2018

This paper investigates mechanisms by which a powerful original equipment manufacturers procures multiple inputs for assembly from suppliers with privately informed costs, either simultaneously or sequentially. The optimal mechanisms always lead to matching purchase quantities of the inputs. Thus, quantity–payment contracts that implement the optimal mechanisms are contingent across suppliers (i.e., each supplier’s contract terms contain other suppliers’ private costs as variables), making the implementation impractical. To address this issue, we propose alternative implementations of the optimal mechanisms by menus of two-part tariff contracts that are noncontingent. In addition, optimal simultaneous and sequential procurement mechanisms for assembly are shown to be revenue-equivalent for all parties despite their different asymmetric information structures. Our findings suggest that procurement managers need not strategize contracting sequences for assembly, but should rather focus on achieving the best pricing with each supplier and coordinating purchase quantities.
Topical pentoxifylline for pressure ulcer treatment: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: Najafi Elham , Ahmadi Motahareh , Mohammadi Mostafa , Beigmohammadi Mohammad-Taghi , Heidary Zinat , Vatanara Alireza , Khalili Hossein
Published: August 2018

Objective:

To evaluate the effectiveness of topical pentoxifylline (PTX) on pressure ulcer (PU) healing in critically ill patients.

Method:

In this randomised, double blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial, patients with category I or II PUs were randomly assigned to receive either topical PTX 5% or a placebo twice daily for 14 days. Changes in PU characteristics (category and size) were assessed. The category of the PU was determined by the Stirling Pressure Ulcer Severity Scale (two-digit) at baseline (day zero), day seven and day 14 of treatment. PU length and width was measured with a disposable ruler and expressed as cm2.

Results:

A total of 112 adult patients were enrolled in the study. Median PU size and score at day zero were 32 (10.00–69.33)cm2 and 1(1.00–2.00) respectively. In the PTX group, the mean differences (95% confidence interval, CI) of all PU scores and sizes decreased significantly across the intervals (day seven versus day zero, day 14 versus day zero, and day 14 versus day seven), compared with the placebo group

Conclusion:

The severity and size of PUs improved significantly in patients who received topical PTX 5% ointment twice a day for 14 days compared with those in the placebo group. Topical PTX may be considered as a potential option in the treatment of categories I and II PUs in critically ill patients.
Postoperative wound management with negative pressure wound therapy in knee and hip surgery: a randomised control trial
Authors: Giannini Sandro , Mazzotti Antonio , Luciani Deianira , Lullini Giada , Tedesco Giuseppe , Andreoli Isabella , Cadossi Matteo , Faldini Cesare
Published: August 2018

Objective:

To compare the effectiveness in wound healing of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) versus a standard dressing in patients who underwent hip or knee revision surgery.

Method:

Participating patients scheduled for hip and knee prosthetic revision were randomised into two groups: one receiving standard povidone-iodine gauze and patch wound dressing (control group) and the other NPWT over the sutured wound area (NPWT group). Patients were evaluated by means of ASEPSIS score, occurrence of blisters, visual analogue scale (VAS) and dressing changes seven days after surgery. We hypothesised a five-point difference in ASEPSIS scores as clinically relevant.

Results:

A total of 110 patients were enrolled in the study. Mean ASEPSIS score was 5.1 for the control group and 3.0 for the NPWT group, with a significant difference in the ASEPSIS score between groups (p<0.001), although this was not clinically relevant. Considering patients with more than three risk factors for healing complication, a statistical difference of >5 points ASEPSIS score was recorded (p<0.0005). Blister occurrence, VAS score and number of dressing changes were significantly lower in the NPWT group.

Conclusion:

The results of this study do not support the routine use of NPWT after hip and knee revision. However, it could be beneficial for selected patients once specific risk factors for wound healing complications have been determined.
Preventing Human Salmonella Infections Resulting from Live Poultry Contact through Interventions at Retail Stores
Authors: Nichols Megin , Stevenson Lauren , Whitlock Laura , Pabilonia Kristy , Robyn Misha , Basler Colin , Gomez Thomas , Barton Behravesh Casey
Published: August 2018

Abstract. The number of outbreaks of infections linked to live poultry contact increased from 1990 to 2016. In 2016, the number of human illnesses linked to live poultry was the highest reported, with more than 900 cases, including 209 hospitalizations and three deaths. Live poultry harboring typically appear healthy but can intermittently shed bacteria in their droppings, contaminating their feathers, beaks, and the areas where they live and roam. Thus, both direct contact with poultry and indirect contact with anything in areas where animals live and roam can result in human infection. To prevent infections linked to live poultry, a One Health approach for control and prevention is required. This approach unifies animal and human health needs and takes into account the environments at the hatcheries where poultry are produced, the agricultural retail stores where poultry are sold, and the customers who own and raise poultry. Agricultural retail stores are the main point of sale for backyard poultry in the U.S. Therefore, stores can play a vital role in preventing infections by sourcing poultry from hatcheries that take steps to reduce in the environment, by displaying poultry in areas that can be easily cleaned, and by using barriers that allow customers to view, but not touch, poultry from a distance. Retail store employees also have a role in preventing illnesses and contamination after the sale by educating customers about appropriate housing for live poultry in outdoor coops, barns, or other designated areas. Keywords: Agricultural, Animal health, Hatcheries, Health hazards, Health protection, Poultry, Salmonella.
Marx’s influence on Brazilian social work
Authors: Behring Elaine
Published: August 2018

This article discusses the influence of Marx and the Marxist tradition on contemporary Brazilian social work. Marx’s method of political economy is a central element in understanding the professional ethical-political project that has been fostered since the late 1960s, known in Brazil as the Reconceptualization Movement. Finally, the article points to the challenges of this perspective for the current situation.
Identification of Eyes At Risk for Severe Retinopathy of Prematurity (ROP) by Third Year Ophthalmology Residents in a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Iguban Eleonore B. , H. Arroyo Milagros
Published: August 2018

Objective:
The aim of the present study is to determine the efficiency of third year ophthalmology residents from a tertiary hospital in performing preliminary retinal examination to identify eyes at risk retinopathy of prematurity on the basis of retinal fundus findings up to International Classification of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ICROP) Zone II.

Methods:
This is a single-center, cross-sectional, prospective comparative research conducted from June to October 2015 at a tertiary training hospital in the Philippines. All infants referred for retinopathy of prematurity screening within the study period where included. The presence of retinal vessel dilatation and tortuosity were identified by third year ophthalmology residents using indirect funduscopy. The residents’ fundus findings were then compared to that of a retina consultant who is proficient in the diagnosis and management of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The Kappa index was used to rate inter-observer agreement. The correlation between ROP risk factors and the presence of abnormal retinal vessels were assessed using odd ratio computations. Fisher’s exact test was used to determine the correlation between retinopathy of prematurity and the presence of retinal dilatation and tortuosity. The McNemar’s test was also applied to determine significant differences in the retinal findings of the consultant and ophthalmology residents.

Results:
A total of 82 eyes of 41 premature infants were evaluated to determine if retinal findings observed by ophthalmology residents were comparable to that of a retina consultant. Odds ratios show that age of gestation, birth weight, and history of blood transfusion are significantly associated with the presence of retinopathy of prematurity. Retinal vessel tortuosity and dilatation are also more common among infants diagnosed with retinopathy of prematurity. There was no significant difference between the retinal vascular findings of the retina consultant and the third year ophthalmology resident in terms of identifying retinal vessel dilatation and tortuosity (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
After sufficient and in-depth ophthalmology training, third year ophthalmologists, who will be general ophthalmologists in the future, can reliably identify eyes at risk for severe retinopathy of prematurity on the basis of retinal vascular dilatation and/or tortuosity.
Cow cleanliness in dairy herds with tie stall systems in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: ERBEZ Miljan , VAŽIĆ Božo , ROGIĆ Biljana , BØE Knut Egil , RUUD Lars Erik
Published: August 2018

This study involved 70 tie stall dairy herds from all over Bosnia and Herzegovina. In each herd, trained observers scored the cleanliness (score 1 = clean to score 4 = very dirty) of 5 randomly chosen cows, total 350 cows, on 5 different body parts (rear, thigh, leg, udder and belly). Total cleanliness score was calculated by adding together the scores for the different body parts. The observers also recorded data on stall design, flooring and use of bedding materials. The proportion of cows scored as dirty or very dirty (score 3 and 4) was 33.4 %, 50.8 %, 55.1 %, 16.0 % and 18.6 % for the legs, thighs, rear, udder and belly respectively. 57.4 % of the cows got a total cleanliness score > 10. The mean total cleanliness score on herd level varied from 5.2 to 18.8. Tests of each stall design variable showed that tying system (p < 0.05), presence of stall dividers (p < 0.05) and manure system (p < 0.05) had a significant effect on total cow cleanliness, the use of bedding material (p > 0.15) and floor type (p > 0.15) had smaller effect. However, only the presence of stall dividers showed significant association to total cleanliness score in the full statistical model (p < 0.05).
Jantzen filtration and strong linkage principle for modular Lie superalgebras
Authors: Pan Lei , Shu Bin
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we introduce super Weyl groups, their distinguished elements and properties for basic classical Lie superalgebras. Then we formulate Jantzen filtration for baby Verma modules in graded restricted module categories of basic classical Lie superalgebras over an algebraically closed field of odd characteristic, and obtain a sum formula in the corresponding Grothendieck groups. Consequently, we formulate a strong linkage principle for such categories.
Sensing Home: Designing an Open Tool That Lets People Collect and Interpret Simple Sensor Data from Their Homes
Authors: Berger Arne , Kurze Albrecht , Totzauer Sören , Storz Michael , Lefeuvre Kevin , Bischof Andreas , Freiermuth Mira
Published: August 2018

The Internet of Things in the home is a design space with huge potential. With sensors getting smaller and cheaper, smart sensor equipped objects will become an integral, preinstalled part of the future home. With this article we will reflect on Sensing Home, a design tool to explore sensors in the home together with people. Sensing Home allows people to integrate sensors and connectivity into mundane domestic products in order to make them smart. As such, it can be used by people to experience and explore sensors in the home and daily life. They may explore possible use cases, appropriate sensor technology, and learn about this technology through use. At the same time people may also be empowered to understand the issues and implications of sensors in the home. We present the design rationale of Sensing Home, five usage examples of how Sensing Home allowed people to explore sensor technology, and the deployment of Sensing Home together with a self-developed group discussion method to empower people to understand the benefits and pitfalls of sensors in their home. The article ends with a brief reflection whether Sensing Home is a probe or a toolkit.
Digital Probes Kit
Authors: Koch Daniel , Maaß Susanne
Published: August 2018

(Cultural) probes have been used in various software design projects and HCI contexts over the last years. With the ubiquity of smartphones today, there are new ways to design probes material as digital probes. Smartphones allow to document everyday life in situ in mobile contexts and provide a permanent channel for communication between researchers and participants. Based on an analysis of strengths and weaknesses of traditional probes, we propose a concept for a Digital Probes Kit in the form of a digital diary and describe its potential.
A generalized class of restricted Stirling and Lah numbers
Authors: Mansour Toufik , Shattuck Mark
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we consider a polynomial generalization, denoted by

u
m

a
,
b

$\begin{array}{}
u_m^{a,b}
\end{array}$

(n, k), of the restricted Stirling numbers of the first and second kind, which reduces to these numbers when a = 1 and b = 0 or when a = 0 and b = 1, respectively. If a = b = 1, then

u
m

a
,
b

$\begin{array}{}
u_m^{a,b}
\end{array}$

(n, k) gives the cardinality of the set of Lah distributions on n distinct objects in which no block has cardinality exceeding m with k blocks altogether. We derive several combinatorial properties satisfied by

u
m

a
,
b

$\begin{array}{}
u_m^{a,b}
\end{array}$

(n, k) and some additional properties in the case when a = b = 1. Our results not only generalize previous formulas found for the restricted Stirling numbers of both kinds but also yield apparently new formulas for these numbers in several cases. Finally, an exponential generating function formula is derived for

u
m

a
,
b

$\begin{array}{}
u_m^{a,b}
\end{array}$

(n, k) as well as for the associated Cauchy numbers.
On generalized 4-th root metrics of isotropic scalar curvature
Authors: Tayebi Akbar
Published: August 2018

By an interesting physical perspective and a suitable contraction of the Riemannian curvature tensor in Finsler geometry, Akbar-Zadeh introduced the notion of scalar curvature for the Finsler metrics. A Finsler metric is called of isotropic scalar curvature if the scalar curvature depends on the position only. In this paper, we study the class of generalized 4-th root metrics. These metrics generalize 4-th root metrics which are used in Biology as ecological metrics. We find the necessary and sufficient condition under which a generalized 4-th root metric is of isotropic scalar curvature. Then, we find the necessary and sufficient condition under which the conformal change of a generalized 4-th root metric is of isotropic scalar curvature. Finally, we characterize the Bryant metrics of isotropic scalar curvature.
Manufacture of high bulk paper using alkali swollen kraft pulp
Authors: Choi Kyoung-Hwa , Kim Ah Ram , Cho Byoung-Uk
Published: August 2018

Effects of alkali swelling of kraft pulp fibers and the order of alkali swelling and beating treatments on paper bulk and paper strength were evaluated in terms of NaOH concentration in order to produce high bulk sheet (i. e., high porous and low density sheet). Effects of replacement of part of furnish with the alkali swollen pulp on paper properties were also investigated. It was found that alkali swelling of pulp fiber can increase the bulk of handsheet. NaOH concentration and beating treatment influenced paper bulk and paper strength. Alkali swollen pulp without beating showed the highest handsheet bulk. The paper bulk of alkali swollen pulp with pre-beating was higher than that with post-beating. Paper strength decreased with increasing the bulk of handsheet. In addition, replacement of part of furnish with alkali swollen pulps increased paper bulk, adversely decreasing paper strength. The highest improvement in paper bulk was achieved with the addition of alkali swollen SwBKP without beating.
Silver polymer nanocomposites by photoreduction of AgNO3 and simultaneous photocrosslinking of the acrylic matrix: effect of PVP on Ag particle formation
Authors: Nazar Rabia , Sangermano Marco , Vitale Alessandra , Bongiovanni Roberta
Published: August 2018

We studied the effect of poly-N-vinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and its concentrations on the photoinduced formation of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) as well as Ag-polymer nanocomposites. First, the effect of PVP concentration on the photoinduced reduction of Ag nitrate (AgNO3) in solution was studied by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy monitoring the plasmon band of Ag. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) results showed that Ag NPs formed in the presence of stabilizer up to 4 wt% were narrower; the size distribution was also narrower. The PVP also had a significant influence on the formation of polymer nanocomposites by simultaneous photoinduced synthesis of NPs and polymerization of the acrylic matrix; NPs embedded in the crosslinked polymer were well dispersed, as detected by field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and showed an average diameter of 20 nm.
The Resistance to Stoic Blending
Authors: Harven Vanessa de
Published: August 2018

This paper rehabilitates the Stoic conception of blending from the ground up, by freeing the Stoic conception of body from three interpretive presuppositions. First, the twin hylomorphic presuppositions that where there is body there is matter, and that where there is reason or quality there is an incorporeal. Then, the atomistic presupposition that body is absolutely full and rigid, and the attendant notion that resistance (antitupia) must be ricochet. I argue that once we clear away these presuppositions about body, the foundations of Stoic corporealism fall into place. Body is fundamental (not hylomorphic). The two fundamental principles (archai) are bodies: divine active reason (logos) and passive matter (hulē); and these two bodies are two, not matter and form all over again, nor actual and potential, but agent and patient. The independence of the two archai is no threat to the unity of the cosmos, however, because the Stoic theory of body allows for the complete coextension of the archai. The hylomorphic thinker rightly asks, what relation could be tighter than that of the wax and its shape? The Stoic replies: a causal relation, the interaction of agent and patient completely coextended in a through and through blend.
Why is the Cosmos Intelligent? (1)
Authors: Salles Ricardo
Published: August 2018

The present paper studies a family of Stoic proofs of the intelligence of the cosmos, i. e. of the thesis that the cosmos is intelligent in the strong sense that it is, as a whole, something that thinks. This family, ‘F2’, goes back to a proof, ‘XP’, found in Philebus 29a9–30 a8 and Xenophon Mem. 1.4.8. F2 infers the intelligence of the cosmos, as XP does, from (i) the general idea that our intelligence proceeds from the cosmos, which is the ultimate cause of why we are intelligent, and (ii) the further claim that, since this is so, the cosmos itself must be intelligent. They differ from one another, however, in how they account for (i). In this paper, I present a new reason for why the accounts are different, that complements those given by David Sedley in a recent and important study of Stoic cosmology (Sedley 2007). Based on the analogy between intelligence and the four elements, XP puts forward the idea that the intelligence currently present in us is a portion of cosmic intelligence that has separated from it at some point in the past, and that has travelled from the outside cosmos to us. In contrast, the theory used by F2 to explain the generation of human intelligence is grounded not in the notions of separation and locomotion, but in that of transmission of a state. As I argue in some detail, the separation-locomotion model and the transmission model are not only different from each other, but also logically independent from one another: in general terms, neither entails the other. This transmission model used by the Stoics in a proof of the intelligence of the cosmos, I submit, is a major innovation in ancient cosmological and metaphysical thinking.
Passion, Impulse, and Action in Stoicism
Authors: Meyer Susan Sauvé
Published: August 2018

A familiar interpretation of the Stoic doctrine of the πάθη runs as follows:

The Stoics claim the πάθη are impulses (ὁρμαί).

The Stoics take impulses to be causes of action.

So, the Stoics think the πάθη are causes of action

Premise (1) is uncontroversial, but the evidence for (2) needs to be reconsidered. I argue that the Stoics have two distinct but related conceptions of ὁρμή – a psychological construal and a behavioural construal. On the psychological construal (2) is true, but there is strong evidence that (1) is true only on the behavioural construal. That is, when the Stoics classify πάθη as impulses they are thinking of them not as impulses to act, but as cases of action in their own right.
Wear Behavior of Al-Based Nanocomposites Reinforced with Bimodal Micro- and Nano-Sized Al2O3 Particles Produced by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Sadeghi B. , Shamanian M. , Ashrafizadeh F. , Cavaliere P. , Rizzo A.
Published: August 2018

Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS) has been recognized, in the recent past, as a very useful method to produce metal matrix composites with enhanced mechanical and wear properties. Obviously, the material’s final properties are strongly related to the reinforcement types and percentages and the particles’ distribution, as well as to the processing parameters employed during synthesis. The present article analyzes the effect of microscopic and nanometric alumina particles, blended to pure aluminum in different combinations, on the final properties of metal matrix composites produced via SPS. A strong variation in the microstructural behavior, mechanical, and wear properties has been observed by varying the nano- to micro-alumina particles’ percentage and the distribution of the ceramic particles blended with aluminum ones.
Dynamic Modeling and Explicit Control of a PEM Water Electrolysis Process
Authors: Ogumerem Gerald S. , Pistikopoulos Efstratios N.
Published: August 2018

Hydrogen production from water electrolysis has the potential to mitigate the intermittency associated with power generated from variable renewable energy. In addition, proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEMWE) has gained attention within the last decade because of its relative advantage over other water electrolysis technologies. However, the high cost of operation that is due to its energy intensity has been a major setback. In this work, we develop an optimal operating strategy for the PEMWE process using the parametric optimization and control framework. First, we present a dynamic mathematical model of the PEMWE that captures the detailed electrochemical interaction, transport phenomenon, bubble coverage, and other interactions associated with energy losses in the system. Secondly, we design a model predictive control (MPC), which is then reformulated into a multiparametric model predictive control (mp-MPC). Unlike the MPC, the mp-MPC avoids the online optimization procedure at every time step because the optimization is done once and offline. The control action is an explicit function of parameters that are realized during the process. The controller is tested on the original dynamic model in a closed loop validation scheme.
Differential Involvement of Kinase Activity of Ca2+/Calmodulin-Dependent Protein Kinase IIα in Hippocampus- and Amygdala-Dependent Memory Revealed by Kinase-Dead Knock-In Mouse
Authors: Yamagata Yoko , Yanagawa Yuchio , Imoto Keiji
Published: August 2018

Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase IIα (CaMKIIα) is a key mediator of activity-dependent neuronal modifications and has been implicated in the molecular mechanisms of learning and memory. Indeed, several types of CaMKIIα knock-in (KI) and knock-out (KO) mice revealed impairments in hippocampal synaptic plasticity and behavioral learning. On the other hand, a similar role for CaMKIIα has been implicated in amygdala-dependent memory, but detailed analyses have not much been performed yet. To better understand its involvement in amygdala-dependent memory as compared to hippocampus-dependent memory, here we performed biochemical analyses and behavioral memory tests using the kinase-dead CaMKIIα (K42R)-KI mouse. In the Morris water maze tasks, homozygous mutants performed well in the visible platform trials, while they failed to form spatial memory in the hippocampus-dependent hidden platform trials. In fear conditioning, these mice were impaired but showed a certain level of amygdala-dependent cued fear memory, which lasted four weeks, while they showed virtually no hippocampus-dependent context discrimination. Neither stronger stimulation nor repetitive stimulation compensated for their memory deficits. The differential outcome of hippocampus- and amygdala-dependent memory in the mutant mouse was not due to differential expression of CaMKIIα between the hippocampus and the amygdala, because biochemical analyses revealed that both kinase activity and protein levels of CaMKII were indistinguishable between the two brain regions. These results indicate that kinase activity of CaMKIIα is indispensable for hippocampus-dependent memory, but not necessarily for amygdala-dependent memory. There may be a secondary, CaMKIIα activity-independent pathway, in addition to the CaMKIIα activity-dependent pathway, in the acquisition of amygdala-dependent memory.
CHARACTERIZATION OF HAZELNUT MILK FERMENTED BY LACTOBACILLUS DELBRUECKII SUBSP. BULGARICUS AND STREPTOCOCCUS THERMOPHILUS
Authors: ERMİŞ Ertan , GÜNEŞ Rabia , ZENT İnci , ÇAĞLAR Muhammed Yusuf , YILMAZ Mustafa Tahsin
Published: August 2018

Raw hazelnut milk were used to
develop new plant-based fermented product using commercial starter mix
containing Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus strains in order to address the current
demand for health promoting and functional plant-based dairy-like products. The
pH, titratable acidity (TA), serum separation (SS), protein content, fat
content and ash content of fermented product were found to be 4.95, 1.25 g
lactic acid/ 100 mL, 28.00%, 2.60%, 7.03% and 0.66%, respectively. Fermented
hazelnut milk demonstrated non-Newtonian pseudoplastic flow behavior and it’s
structure was more predominantly elastic than viscous. Sensory analysis showed
that some attributes of fermented hazelnut milk such as color, aroma,
consistency, typical yoghurt odor and overall acceptability were less
appreciated than Ayran (commercial cow milk yogurt drink) whereas some other
attributes were found as satisfying.
Afteraffect
Authors: Gana Nouri
Published: August 2018

This essay discusses the politics of affect in post-1967 Arabic literary and cultural production. It argues that melancholia’s underappreciated swerve from normative structures of power and mourning is a threshold moment of critical and cultural enablement in the Arab world, where the nexus between proxy and settler colonialisms continues to produce and reproduce almost all aspects of literature and culture.
Heartfelt Musicking
Authors: Varwig Bettina
Published: August 2018

This essay proposes a somatic archaeology of German Lutheran music making around 1700. Focusing on a single cantata by Johann Sebastian Bach, it sets out to reconstruct the capacities of early modern body-souls for musical reverberation, affective contagion, and spiritual transformation.
Outcomes of pubertal development in girls as a function of pubertal onset age
Authors: German A , Shmoish M , Belsky J , Hochberg Z
Published: August 2018

Background

The relationship between pubertal onset and tempo and pubertal growth is controversial. We hypothesized that the age at onset of girls’ puberty predicts pubertal tempo and the rate of pubertal progression.

Methods

We analyzed the data of 380 girls from the prospective Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development (SECCYD) who were recruited in the USA from 1991 to 2006 and followed from birth to age 15.5 years. We used the following indicators: thelarche age (Tanner stage B2), pubarche age (P2), menarche age (M), the age when breast (B5) and pubic hair (P5) became fully mature, pubertal growth, pubertal duration (time from B2 to B5) and pubertal progression (time from B2 to M). We clustered the girls according to B2 age into early onset (EO; <9.4 years), intermediate (IO; 9.4–10.5 years), late onset (LO; >10.5 years).

Results

All indicators of pubertal onset and conclusion occurred earlier in the EOs than in the LOs; yet, the differences in the age at main pubertal milestones lessened as puberty progressed: 2 years for B2; −1.4 years for M; −1 year for B5. In EOs, puberty was 1 year (average) longer than in LOs. Although EOs grew 7 cm (average) more than LOs, their heights at B5 were comparable. There was a significant relationship between the thelarche age and puberty tempo (r = 0.23, P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

The study highlights the predictive nature of variation in the onset age of puberty on its progression and duration. These results are reassuring in this context and will add to clinicians’ and parental understanding of the expected milestones of puberty.
Determinant of The Financial Literacy: Case Study on Career Woman in Indonesia
Authors: Dewanty Novia , Isbanah Yuyun
Published: August 2018

Financial literacy is one of the relevant facts in improving the economy. The purpose of this study was to examine the influence of demographic factors (i.e., marital status, education level, income, and age) and financial socialization agent on financial literacy. Using online and offline questionnaire survey from 100 respondents in Surabaya, East Java, and the study revealed that education level, personal income, and financial socialization agent, give the positive effect, while the marital status and age does not affect financial literacy. This result implies that the government can focus on educating the development and improvement of financial literacy for the society. It is believed to be a step forward in practicing financial planning from an early age to solve problems with financial management using financial knowledge, financial attitude, and financial behavior.DOI: 10.15408/etk.v17i2.6681
Use of Oximetry to Determine Need for Adenotonsillectomy for Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Authors: Papadakis Chariton E. , Chaidas Konstantinos , Chimona Theognosia S. , Asimakopoulou Panagiota , Ladias Alexandros , Proimos Efklidis K. , Miligkos Michael , Kaditis Athanasios G.
Published: August 2018

OBJECTIVES:

We evaluated the efficacy of adenotonsillectomy (T/A) in children with sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) in a controlled study using oximetry. We hypothesized that children with SDB and abnormal nocturnal oximetry in a community setting will have improved hypoxemia indices after T/A.

METHODS:

Children with snoring and tonsillar hypertrophy (4–10 years old) who were candidates for T/A were randomly assigned to 2 oximetry sequences (baseline and 3-month follow-up): (1) oximetry immediately before T/A and at the 3-month follow-up, which occurred postoperatively (T/A group); or (2) oximetry at the initial visit and at the end of the usual 3-month waiting period for surgery (control group). Outcomes were (1) proportion of subjects with McGill oximetry score (MOS) >1 at baseline acquiring MOS of 1 at follow-up and (2) proportion of subjects achieving oxygen desaturation (≥3%) of hemoglobin index (ODI3) <2 episodes per hour at follow-up if they had ODI3 ≥3.5 episodes per hour at baseline.

RESULTS:

One hundred and forty children had quality oximetry tracings. Twelve of 17 (70.6%) children with MOS >1 in the T/A group and 10 of 21 (47.6%) children with MOS >1 in the control group had MOS of 1 at follow-up (P = .14). More subjects in the T/A than in the control group achieved ODI3 <2 episodes per hour at follow-up (14 of 32 [43.8%] vs 2 of 38 [5.3%]; P < .001). Three children with elevated ODI3 were treated to prevent persistently abnormal ODI3 in 1 child at follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS:

An ODI3 ≥3.5 episodes per hour in nocturnal oximetry is related to increased resolution rate of nocturnal hypoxemia after T/A for SDB compared with no intervention.
Home Medication Readiness for Preschool Children With Asthma
Authors: Callaghan-Koru Jennifer A. , Riekert Kristin A. , Ruvalcaba Elizabeth , Rand Cynthia S. , Eakin Michelle N.
Published: August 2018

BACKGROUND:

Having a medication available in the home is a prerequisite to medication adherence. Our objectives with this study are to assess asthma medication readiness among low-income urban minority preschool-aged children, and the association between beliefs about medications and medication readiness.

METHODS:

During a baseline assessment, a research assistant visited the home to administer a caregiver survey and observe 5 criteria in the medication readiness index: the physical presence and expiration status of medications, the counter status of metered-dose inhalers, and caregiver knowledge of medication type and dosing instructions.

RESULTS:

Of 288 enrolled children (mean age 4.2 years [SD: 0.7], 92% African American, 60% boys), 277 (96%) of their caregivers reported a rescue medication, but only 79% had it in the home, and only 60% met all 5 of the medication readiness criteria. Among the 161 children prescribed a controller medication, only 79% had it in the home, and only 49% met all 5 readiness criteria. Fewer worries and concerns about medications were associated with higher odds of meeting all 5 readiness criteria for controller medications.

CONCLUSIONS:

Inadequate availability of asthma medications in the home is a barrier to adherence among low-income urban preschoolers. Assessment of medication readiness should be incorporated into clinical care because this is an underrecognized barrier to adherence, and interventions are needed to improve medication management and knowledge to increase adherence.
The essence and features of strategic planning in the interests of political security
Authors: Orel M. G.
Published: August 2018

The growth of the systemic impact of the challenges and threats to national security necessitates the adoption of government-management decisions that should be adequate to existing trends of rather ambiguous and contradictory socio-political and socio-economic processes. Strategic planning as a function of strategic management today is considered as a universal mechanism for balancing the goals and capabilities of the state with respect to its development. To the quality of the results of strategic planning in the field of political security put forward quite stringent requirements. Their successful implementation depends to a large extent on understanding of the subjects involved in this process, its essence, as well as on the use of their effective methodological tools for achieving the planning objectives. Scientists and planners singled out two ways of planning. At the heart of the first method of planning is – description and analysis of the current state, that is, the initial conditions, and on this basis, prediction of the future. At the heart of the second is the idea of designing the future and then trying to formulate action plans, the implementation of which can lead to the achievement of the planned future. As a result of analysis showed that in order to study the interconnections between these factors, it is expedient to use system and situational approaches and system analysis. Political and strategic forecasting is used to obtain predictive estimates of their development. The essence of strategic planning in the interests of ensuring political security is the search for an answer to the question: the declared national goals in the political sphere are adequate to the national political interests, which is the probability of their achievement (taking into account the capabilities (resources) of the state and the possible actions (goals, strategies) of other countries underlying their foreign and domestic policies). The effectiveness of public administration in the sphere of political security depends to a large extent on the quality of strategic planning, which should be based on the results of strategic forecasting (developing long-term forecasts for the development of political security situations and management strategies for adequate responses to them). Accordingly, the main attention of the subjects of this planning should be focused on ensuring the quality of the results of strategic analysis, which must necessarily take into account the consequences of the implementation of certain management decisions in the future, public support, resource capabilities, solving socio-political development, planning and the implementation of relevant foreign-policy actions. Strategic planning in the sphere of political security is the development of strategic documents. The features of the development of the object of management, adequate perception and a thorough analysis of external and internal environmental factors of its functioning should be taken into account in the process of their development.
«Pax Technica»: політико-філософська рефлексія впливу інтернет-мереж на природу публічної сфери й демократичного врядування
Authors: Slavina O. V.
Published: August 2018

Шляхом проведення епістемологічної оцінки в статті здійснено спробу подолання утопічних й дистопічних міркувань, які превалюють в судженнях щодо впливу Інтернету на організацію публічної сфери, а також проведено постмодерністський перегляд теорії Ю. Габермаса з точки зору сучасної медіа-революції. Обґрунтовано формування не-егалітарної мережевої публічної сфери, яка постає як паралельні дискурсивні арени, на яких члени соціальних груп виробляють і розповсюджують контрдискурси, що в свою чергу дозволяє їм формулювати опозиційні інтерпретації власних ідентичностей, інтересів та потреб. Зроблено висновок про те, що демократія виявляє себе не стільки в кібер-просторі, скільки через реальну структуру суспільних відносин, що дозволяє виконувати ряд завдань, серед яких розвиток інституту громадського діалогу та формування соціальної солідарності. Разом з тим вказано, що відбувається значне послаблення символічної влади традиційних відправників повідомлень (інститутів влади), що здійснюють управління за допомогою історично закодованих соціальних практик (як-то: політична ідеологія, релігія, традиційні цінності). Вказано на ряд факторів, які компрометують репрезентативність віртуальної сфери, а саме: нерівність доступу до інформації, фрагментація політичного дискурсу, мімікрія до існуючої політичної культури, а не створення нової. Підкреслено вагому перспективу в розробці життєздатних варіантів цифрового майбутнього й конфігурації моделей позитивних зрушень.
Емпіричне соціологічне дослідження гендерно-специфічних маніпулятивних технологій у сфері судочинства: проблема побудови інструментарію
Authors: Parkhomenko О. І.
Published: August 2018

Статтю присвячено проблемі співвідношення гендерних стереотипів ключових гендерних ідеологій та пов’язаних із ними гендерно-специфічних технологій маніпулятивного впливу в сфері сімейного судочинства. В результаті досягнення мети та реалізації завдань статті автор приходить до висновку про те, що побудова системи емпіричних індикаторів є грунтованою на ключових гіпотезах емпіричного дослідження щодо переважання в гендерній ідеології як складовій частині соціальної моралі логіки «подвійних стандартів». Згідно з цією «логікою», те, що по відношенню до представників однієї гендерної спільноти вважається гендерною маніпуляцією і навіть гендерним насильством, у ставленні до представників іншої гендерної спільноти оцінюється як соціальна норма. Оцінка відповідних гендерно-специфічних маніпулятивних технологій як легітимних випливає із мовчазної згоди практикуючих юристів із соціальною мораллю матріархального расизму, яка містить систему імплікацій щодо гендерної неповноцінності чоловіків та припущення щодо них відповідних дискримінаційних практик у сфері сімейного судочинства. Найбільшим маніпулятивним потенціалом, на думку автора, володіють норми, які відсилають до малопрояснених норм «суспільної моралі», сама розпливчатість яких уможливлює похідне від неї гендерне маніпулювання із невигідними для чоловіків юридичними наслідками.