bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Auswirkungen von Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Brunn Christoph
Published: September 2017

Untersuchungen zu Corporate Social Responsibility fokussieren zumeist auf die Auswirkungen im Unternehmen selbst. Aber welche gesellschaftlichen Wirkungen haben Corporate Social Responsibility-Maßnahmen? Und tragen diese Maßnahmen von Unternehmen wirklich zur Erreichung politischer Ziele bei? Mit vier verschiedenen empirischen Methoden werden diese Fragen beantwortet.
A comparison of the reliability of the Solo- and revised Bloom's Taxonomy-based classifications in the analysis of the cognitive levels of assessment questions
Authors: İlhan Mustafa , Gezer Melehat
Published: September 2017

This study aims to compare the reliability of SOLO and revised Bloom's taxonomy-based (RBT) classifications in the determination of the cognitive levels of the assessment questions. The data were obtained by three experts' examination of the assessment questions in the Seventh Grade Social Studies Textbook published by the Ministry of National Education and Eight Grade Science and Technology Textbook published by Yıldırım Publishing in 2015. The collected data were analyzed in a crossed design whereby the assessment questions were the object of measurement and the experts were the facet on the basis of the generalizability theory. It was found that the variance percentage of the main effect of the assessment question was found to be higher in the SOLO-based classifications. The variance component related to the experts' main effect and the residual variance values were found to be higher in the RBT than in the SOLO taxonomy. In conclusion, compared to the RBT, the SOLO-based classifications were found to have higher G and Phi coefficients. These results indicate that SOLO taxonomy seems to be more reliable than RBT in the determination of the cognitive level of assessment questions.
Effectiveness of web-based problem-based school administrator training program and its effect on participants' attitudes towards web-based learning
Authors: Karabatak Songül , Turhan Muhammed
Published: September 2017

The aim of this study is to determine the effectiveness of a web-based problem-based school administrator training program (WB-PBSAT) in practice and the effect of training on participants' attitudes towards web based learning. Mixed method approach was used in this study. While the quantitative dimension of the study was conducted within the framework of one group pre-test post-test experimental design, focus group interviews was performed in the qualitative dimension. Participants of the experimental and the control groups were determined by purposive sampling. Attitudes Toward Web-Based Learning (ATWBL) Scale was used to determine the participants' attitudes towards web-based learning, and the Program Assessment Scale was used to evaluate the training process. According to the findings it was concluded that the training process positively affected the attitudes of the participants towards web-based learning and training process has also provided significant contributions to participants' establishing the link between theory and practice and self-directed learning. Based on these results, some suggestions for educational policy makers and practitioners were developed for the use of a web-based problem-based learning in school administrators' pre-service and in-service training programs.
Preliminary study of the association between the elimination parameters of phenytoin and phenobarbital
Authors: Methaneethorn Janthima , Panomvana Duangchit , Vachirayonstien Thaveechai
Published: September 2017

Background:

Therapeutic drug monitoring is essential for both phenytoin and phenobarbital therapy given their narrow therapeutic indexes. Nevertheless, the measurement of either phenytoin or phenobarbital concentrations might not be available in some rural hospitals. Information assisting individualized phenytoin and phenobarbital combination therapy is important. This study’s objective was to determine the relationship between the maximum rate of metabolism of phenytoin (V

Methods:

Data on phenytoin and phenobarbital concentrations of 19 epileptic patients concurrently receiving both drugs were obtained from medical records. Phenytoin and phenobarbital pharmacokinetic parameters were studied at steady-state conditions. The relationship between the elimination parameters of both drugs was determined using simple linear regression.

Results:

A high correlation coefficient between V

Conclusions:

Regression equations were established for estimating V
Mechanical behaviour of a lightweight, three-layered sandwich panel based on the raw material maize
Authors: Burnett Moira P. , Kharazipour Alireza
Published: September 2017

Lightweight construction of composites is one of the strategies for developing material-saving panels, whereas light honeycomb boards or sandwich panels (SPs) based on foam or wood materials seem to be very promising in this context. The objective of the present work was the development of an SP with a reduced density based on nearly 100% expanded maize granular in the core layer, which was combined with 3 mm thin and stiff poplar plywood as face materials. In focus were mechanical and physical properties of the SPs, which should be applicable in the furniture industry and competitive with conventional wood composites such as fibreboards or particle boards.
Plasma-Assisted Nitriding in Low-Frequency Inductively Coupled Plasma Enhanced with Ferromagnetic Cores
Authors: Isupov Mikhail , Pinaev Vadim , Mul Daria , Belousova Natalia
Published: September 2017

An experimental investigation of plasma-assisted nitriding of austenitic stainless steel AISI 321 in a low-pressure (7 Pa), low-frequency (50–100 kHz) nitrogen inductively coupled plasma enhanced with ferromagnetic cores has been performed at the temperatures of 470–625 °C, sample biases of ‒500–‒750 V, current densities on the sample surface of 1.2–3.3 mA/cm2 and nitriding times of 20 and 60 min. It is found that even the short (20 min) ion-plasma treatment results in the formation of nitrided layers with the thickness of up to 40 μm and microhardness of up to 9 GPa.The high speed of nitriding can be explained as a result of the joint action of high ion flux density and high ion energy on the sample surface.
A Multi-Agents System for Solving Facility Layout Problem: Application to Operating Theater
Authors: Chraibi Abdelahad , Kharraja Said , Osman Ibrahim H. , Elbeqqali Omar
Published: September 2017

Facility layout problem (FLP) has a great impact on the efficiency of any organization. It is concerned with defining the optimal location for each facility in order to optimize the supply chain productivity. In this kind of problems, the choice of resolution approach depends on the complexity and the size of the problem. Operating theaters are generally big structures containing a lot of facilities, which makes the conception of their layout a complex problem. In the literature, exact methods are powerless when faced with problem sizes up to 18 facilities. This leads us to explore other approaches, looking for efficient solutions. This paper presents a novel approach using a multi-agents system where agents’ skills are exploited to cover a wide research space, to accelerate the decision-making process and to deal with real-life problem sizes. This decision-making tool is based on several mixed integer linear programming models for solving the FLP, and considers two types of environments with deterministic and variant patient demand. Several experiments have been performed to demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, and several problem instances with >80 facilities have been solved in reasonable time.
Heterogeneous terahertz quantum cascade lasers exceeding 1.9 THz spectral bandwidth and featuring dual comb operation
Authors: Rösch Markus , Beck Mattias , Süess Martin J. , Bachmann Dominic , Unterrainer Karl , Faist Jérôme , Scalari Giacomo
Published: September 2017

We report on a heterogeneous active region design for terahertz quantum cascade laser based frequency combs. Dynamic range, spectral bandwidth and output power have been significantly improved with respect to previous designs. When individually operating the lasers, narrow and stable intermode beatnote indicate frequency comb operation up to a spectral bandwidth of 1.1 THz, while in a dispersion-dominated regime a bandwidth up to 1.94 THz at a center frequency of 3 THz can be reached. A self-detected dual-comb setup has been used to verify the frequency comb nature of the lasers.
Relative merits of phononics vs. plasmonics: the energy balance approach
Authors: Khurgin Jacob B.
Published: September 2017

The common feature of various plasmonic schemes is their ability to confine optical fields of surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) into subwavelength volumes and thus achieve a large enhancement of linear and nonlinear optical properties. This ability, however, is severely limited by the large ohmic loss inherent to even the best of metals. However, in the mid- and far-infrared ranges of the spectrum, there exists a viable alternative to metals – polar dielectrics and semiconductors, in which dielectric permittivity (the real part) turns negative in the Reststrahlen region. This feature engenders the so-called surface phonon polaritons, capable of confining the field in a way akin to their plasmonic analogs, the SPPs. Since the damping rate of polar phonons is substantially less than that of free electrons, it is not unreasonable to expect that phononic devices may outperform their plasmonic counterparts. Yet a more rigorous analysis of the comparative merits of phononics and plasmonics reveals a more nuanced answer, namely, that while phononic schemes do exhibit narrower resonances and can achieve a very high degree of energy concentration, most of the energy is contained in the form of lattice vibrations so that enhancement of the electric field and, hence, the Purcell factor is rather small compared to what can be achieved with metal nanoantennas. Still, the sheer narrowness of phononic resonances is expected to make phononics viable in applications where frequency selectivity is important.
Reciprocating friction and wear of polyimide composites filled with solid lubricants
Authors: Song Jingfu , Zhao Gai , Ding Qingjun , Qiu Jinhao
Published: September 2017

High-performance engineering polymers are a potential frictional material candidate for mechanical systems with moving parts, especially at high load and speed conditions. In this study, reciprocating friction and wear of aramid fibers/polyimide composites filled with graphite, MoS2 or Polytetrafluoroethylene, respectively, were systematically investigated on a Pin-on-Flat test rig. The experimental setup was simplified into friction materials reciprocating against a phosphor bronze pin to simulate the rotor/stator contact state in ultrasonic motors. A comparative study on friction reduction and wear resistance of polyimide composites indicated that graphite showed the best lubricity with low friction coefficient and wear rate. Experimental results of pressure time average velocity measurements showed that frequencies ranging from 3 to 11 Hz played a significant role on the friction coefficient variations of these porous polyimide composites, whereas increasing pressure from 4 to 6 MPa had little effect on friction reduction. Then, the microstructure of the worn surface of the three different materials was observed by scanning electron microscope to reveal the wear mechanisms. This study is expected to provide a good guidance for porous polyimide composites application in ultrasonic motors.
Die jungneolithischen Erdwerke von Altheim
Authors: Saile Thomas , Posselt Martin , Zirngibl Bernhard , Schoon Reinhold , Steinrücken Burkard , Tinapp Christian
Published: September 2017

Die Geländearbeiten an dem vor einem Jahrhundert entdeckten Erdwerk von Altheim wurden im Jahre 2012 wieder aufgenommen. Im Verlauf dieser Untersuchungen konnte nahe der altbekannten Einhegung im Südosten der Nachweis eines zweiten altheimzeitlichen Grabenwerkes erbracht werden. Beide Anlagen sind räumlich aufeinander bezogen. Im Bereich des nördlichen Grabenwerkes wurde ein Bodenabtrag von mehreren Dezimetern während des letzten Jahrhunderts beobachtet; die Substanz beider Bodendenkmäler erscheint damit akut gefährdet. Erste Radiokohlenstoffdatierungen an Proben von Haustierknochen ergeben eine Einordnung beider Anlagen in das 37./36. Jh. v. Chr. und Hinweise auf eine zeitliche Abfolge der Gräben. Die seinerzeitige Feststellung eines hohen Pfeilspitzenanteiles an den geschlagenen Steingeräten sowie eines sehr geringen Wildtieranteiles wurden durch die neuen Grabungen bestätigt. Die Längsachsen-Ausrichtung in nordwest-südöstlicher Richtung ermöglicht eine archäoastronomische Deutung; durch Beobachtung von Naturphänomenen gewonnenes Wissen wurde in Architektur umgesetzt. Zweifel an einer fortifikatorischen Interpretation der Anlagen werden durch die neuerlichen Arbeiten nachhaltig verstärkt.
Multiple Spiritualität im Alter
Authors: Städtler-Mach Barbara
Published: September 2017

Die Formulierung „Multiple Spiritualität im Alter“ wirft die Frage auf: Ist die Spiritualität eines alten Menschen eine Haltung, die er im Lebenslauf schon immer hatte, und die er im Alter jetzt eben auch noch hat? Dann wäre die Spiritualität eines alten Menschen vor allem immer im Zusammenhang mit seiner Biografie und den bisherigen spirituellen Gedanken und Haltungen zu verstehen. Oder gibt es eine spezifische Spiritualität von alten Menschen, die sich grundsätzlich von der junger Menschen unterscheidet? Dann wäre zu erforschen, welche Lebensthemen, Erfahrungen oder existentielle Situationen für das Verständnis von Spiritualität zu berücksichtigen sind. Beide Möglichkeiten sind denkbar, für beide Optionen gibt es gute Argumente. In jedem Fall sollten die Ergebnisse
von den Menschen, die sich um alte Menschen kümmern, berücksichtigt werden. Aufgabe zukünftiger Forschung wird es sein, zu dieser Frage weiterhin Daten zu erheben, um zu einem besseren Verständnis der Spiritualität alter Menschen zu kommen.
Das wissenschaftliche Unternehmen
Authors: Schneider Michael C.
Published: September 2017

The scientific enterprise. Chemical-pharmaceutical research at E. Merck, Darmstadt, ca. 1900 to 1930

This article deals with the development of academic research within the pharmaceutical firm E. Merck, Darmstadt, between 1900 and 1930. One main purpose is to clarify to what extent the widespread notion is justified that external research gave way for internal research in order to maintain a leading position in innovativeness. Therefore the article analyses the way of co-operation between Merck and Richard Willstätter in the case of cocaine-synthesis around 1900, and the co-operation with Adolf Windaus with regard to vitamin D during the 1920s. The article concludes that internal research was indeed intensified during the interwar period, on the one hand. But this development is, on the other hand, better understood as a necessary precondition if the firm wanted prospectively be able to participate at novel developments in vitamin chemistry. The co-operation between the chemical laboratory of the university of Goettingen, the Merck research laboratory, and the pharmaceutical laboratory of I.G. Farbenindustrie AG are more aptly interpreted as an interconnected research network in which each part contributed original insights and, occasionally, breakthroughs.
Private club or public marketplace?
Authors: Buchner Michael
Published: September 2017

This paper contributes to the literature on the organisation and governance of stock exchanges by taking the perspective of property rights theory. Focusing on the examples of the London and Berlin stock exchanges, which followed quite opposite paths of development during the second half of the 19th century, the paper provides three major results. First, it shows that historical stock exchanges were much more characterised by institutional variety and evolution than recent economic accounts tend to suggest. Secondly, drawing on a theoretical model developed by Oliver Hart and John Moore, the paper argues that differences in membership structure as well as in the competitive environment constituted the main driving forces behind organisational change both in London and in Berlin. Finally, it is claimed that future research should take the public dimension of Continental bourses more strongly into account, which, for example, has important implications for the question of whether stock exchanges established property rights in prices or not.
Angular Gyrus Involvement at Encoding and Retrieval Is Associated with Durable But Less Specific Memories
Authors: van der Linden Marieke , Berkers Ruud M.W.J. , Morris Richard G.M. , Fernández Guillén
Published: September 2017

After consolidation, information belonging to a mental schema is better remembered, but such memory can be less specific when it comes to details. A neuronal mechanism consistent with this behavioral pattern could result from a dynamic interaction that entails mediation by a specific cortical network with associated hippocampal disengagement. We now report that, in male and female adult human subjects, encoding and later consolidation of a series of objects embedded in a semantic schema was associated with a buildup of activity in the angular gyrus (AG) that predicted memory 24 h later. In parallel, the posterior hippocampus became less involved as schema objects were encoded successively. Hippocampal disengagement was related to an increase in falsely remembering objects that were not presented at encoding. During both encoding and retrieval, the AG and lateral occipital complex (LOC) became functionally connected and this interaction was beneficial for successful retrieval. Therefore, a network including the AG and LOC enhances the overnight retention of schema-related memories and their simultaneous detachment from the hippocampus reduces the specificity of the memory.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTThis study provides the first empirical evidence on how the hippocampus and the neocortex interact dynamically when acquiring and then effectively retaining durable knowledge that is associated to preexisting knowledge, but they do so at the cost of memory specificity. This interaction is a fundamental mnemonic operation that has thus far been largely overlooked in memory research.
Chromosome structure dynamics during the cell cycle: a structure to fit every phase
Authors: Barrington Christopher , Pezic Dubravka , Hadjur Suzana
Published: September 2017

Chromosomes undergo dramatic morphological changes as cells advance through the cell cycle. Using powerful molecular and computational methods, several recent studies revealed an outstanding complexity of continuous structural changes accompanying cell cycle progression. In agreement with cell division being a fundamental cellular process, characteristic features of cell cycle stage‐specific genome structure are conserved from yeast to mouse. These studies further shine light on the critical roles that SMC complexes, already well known as fundamental regulators of chromosome topology, have in orchestrating structural dynamics throughout the cell cycle.
Whole-exome sequencing gives additional benefits compared to candidate gene sequencing in the molecular diagnosis of children with growth hormone or IGF-1 insensitivity
Authors: Shapiro Lucy , Chatterjee Sumana , Ramadan Dina G , Davies Kate M , Savage Martin O , Metherell Louise A , Storr Helen L
Published: September 2017

Background

GH insensitivity (GHI) is characterised by short stature, IGF-1 deficiency and normal/elevated serum GH. IGF-1 insensitivity results in pre- and post-natal growth failure with normal/high IGF-1 levels. The prevalence of genetic defects is unknown.

Objective

To identify the underlying genetic diagnoses in a paediatric cohort with GH or IGF-1 insensitivity using candidate gene (CGS) and whole-exome sequencing (WES) and assess factors associated with the discovery of a genetic defect.

Methods

We undertook a prospective study of 132 patients with short stature and suspected GH or IGF-1 insensitivity referred to our centre for genetic analysis. 107 (96 GHI, 88 probands; 11 IGF-1 insensitivity, 9 probands) underwent CGS. WES was performed in those with no defined genetic aetiology following CGS.

Results

A genetic diagnosis was discovered 38/107 (36%) patients (32% probands) by CGS. WES revealed 11 patients with genetic variants in genes known to cause short stature. A further 2 patients had hypomethylation in the H19/IGF2 region or mUPD7 consistent with Silver–Russell Syndrome (total with genetic diagnosis 51/107, 48% or 41/97, 42% probands). WES also identified homozygous putative variants in FANCA and PHKB in 2 patients. Low height SDS and consanguinity were highly predictive for identifying a genetic defect.

Conclusions

Comprehensive genetic testing confirms the genetic heterogeneity of GH/IGF-1 insensitivity and successfully identified the genetic aetiology in a significant proportion of cases. WES is rapid and may isolate genetic variants that have been missed by traditional clinically driven genetic testing. This emphasises the benefits of specialist diagnostic centres.
Cell-secreted vesicles containing microRNAs as regulators of gamete maturation
Authors: da Silveira Juliano C , de Ávila Ana Clara F C M , Garrett Hannah L , Bruemmer Jason E , Winger Quinton A , Bouma Gerrit J
Published: September 2017

Mammalian gamete maturation requires extensive signaling between germ cells and their surrounding somatic cells. In the ovary, theca cells, mural granulosa cells, cumulus cells and the oocyte all secrete factors throughout follicle growth and maturation that are critical for ovulation of a high-quality oocyte with the competence to develop into an embryo. Similarly, maturation of sperm occurs as it transits the epididymis during which epididymal epithelium and sperm exchange secretory factors that are required for sperm to gain motility and fertility. Recent studies in a variety of species have uncovered the presence of cell-secreted vesicles in follicular fluid (microvesicles and exosomes) and epididymal fluid (epididymosomes). Moreover, these cell-secreted vesicles contain small non-coding regulatory RNAs called microRNAs, which can be shuttled between maturing gametes and surrounding somatic cells. Although little is known about the exact mechanism of how microRNAs are loaded into these cell-secreted vesicles or are transferred and modulate gene expression and function in gametes, recent studies clearly suggest that cell-secreted vesicle microRNAs play a role in oocyte and sperm maturation. Moreover, a role for cell-secreted vesicular microRNAs in gamete maturation provides for novel opportunities to modulate and discover new diagnostic markers associated with male or female fertility. This manuscript provides an overview of cell-secreted vesicles in ovarian follicular fluid and epididymal fluid and microRNAs and discusses recent discoveries on the potential function of cell-secreted vesicles as carriers of microRNAs in oocyte and sperm maturation.
FLUOXETINE MODULATES SEX STEROID LEVELS IN VITRO
Authors: Lupu Diana , Sjödin Marcus O. D. , Varshney Mukesh , Lindberg Johan , Loghin Felicia , Rüegg Joëlle
Published: September 2017

Background and aims. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressants increasingly prescribed against depression during and after pregnancy. However, these compounds cross the placenta and are found in breast milk, thus reaching, and possibly affecting, the fetus and infant during critical developmental stages. Fluoxetine (FLX), a widely used SSRI, can interfere with estrogen signaling, which is important for the development of  female sex organs and certain brain areas, among others. Interference with estrogen signaling can take place on different levels, e.g., by affecting receptor activity or hormone levels. FLX has previously been shown to induce estrogen receptor-dependent transcription in vitro at high concentrations. In this study we set out to assess effects of FLX on estradiol levels in vitro.Methods. FLX was tested using the OECD recommended H295R model, a human adrenocortical carcinoma cell line that is able to produce all steroid hormones found in the gonads and adrenal glands, including estradiol and testosterone. H295R cells were incubated with different doses of FLX for 48h. Subsequently, concentrations of these two steroids were measured in cell culture medium after FLX exposure, using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry. Aromatase mRNA expression was assessed using qPCR.Results. Fluoxetine significantly increased estradiol secretion in H295R cells after a 48h exposure at low, submicromolar concentrations, but showed no effects on testosterone levels or aromatase mRNA expression.Conclusion. Fluoxetine has the potential to interfere with estrogenic signaling by increasing estradiol secretion at low concentrations, which are relevant for fetal and adult human exposure.
Endocan Serum Levels in Patients with Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease with or without Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dallio Marcello , Masarone Mario , Caprio Giuseppe Gerardo , Di Sarno Rosa , Tuccillo Concetta , Sasso Ferdinando Carlo , Persico Marcello , Loguercio Carmela , Federico Alessandro
Published: September 2017

Background & Aims: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is emerging as an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Recently, Endocan has been studied as an early marker of endothelial dysfunction. Our aim was to evaluate Endocan serum levels in patients with NAFLD with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus.Method: We enrolled 56 patients: 19 with NAFLD and 37 with type 2 diabetes mellitus with or without NAFLD, and compared them to 25 healthy controls. Endocan serum level was measured by using the ELISA EndoMark assay.Results: Endocan level was significantly higher in NAFLD subjects, compared to controls (1.23±1.51 vs 0.68±0.4 ng/mL; p=0.016). It was higher in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver and non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) (1.12±1.11, 1.49±2.16 and 0.68±0.4 ng/ml vs controls, respectively), independently from presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus. The increase was more marked in patients with NASH and in those with NAFL versus controls (p=0.001 and p=0.004, respectively), but not statistically different between the two groups (p=0.448). Finally, we found a statistically relevant increase of this marker in diabetic NAFLD patients compared to those non diabetic (1.56±0.81 vs 0.72±0.58 ng/ml; p=0.01).Conclusion: We demonstrated an increased Endocan serum level in NAFLD patients, higher in those with type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or NASH because of an endothelial dysfunction in these pathologies.Abbreviations: BMI: Body Mass Index; CCBS: calcium channel blockers; ED: endothelial dysfunction; ELISA: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay; ESM-1: Endothelial cell-specific molecule-1; HOMA-IR: Homeostasis Model Assessment Insulin Resistance; ICAM: Intercellular Adhesion Molecule; LFA-1: Lymphocyte Function-Associated Antigen 1; NAFL: non-alcoholic fatty liver; NAFLD: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; NAS: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease activity score; NASH: non-alcoholic steatohepatitis; ROS: reactive oxigen species; T2DM: type 2 diabetes mellitus; TNF-alpha: tumor necrosis factor-alpha.
Evaluation of 2D- Shear Wave Elastography for Characterisation of Focal Liver Lesions
Authors: Gerber Ludmila , Fitting Daniel , Srikantharajah Kajana , Weiler Nina , Kyriakidou Georgia , Bojunga Joerg , Schulze Falko , Bon Dimitra , Zeuzem Stefan , Rust Mireen Friedrich
Published: September 2017

Background & Aim: This is a prospective study for evaluation of 2D-shear wave elastography (2D-SWE) for characterisation and differentiation of benign und malignant focal liver lesions (FLLs).Methods: The patients referred to our ultrasound unit were prospectively included. B-mode ultrasound and 2D-SWE (Aixplorer® France) were performed for one FLL in each patient. Liver histology and/or contrast-enhanced imaging were used as a reference method.Results: 140 patients with FLL were included. SWE acquisitions failed in 24% of them. Therefore, 106 patients with FLL could be analysed, 42/106 with benign and 64/106 with malignant FLLs. The median stiffness for benign FLLs was 16.4 (2.1-71.9) kPa: 16.55 kPa for 18 focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH), 16.35 kPa for 18 hemangioma, 9.8 kPa for 3 focal fatty sparings (FFS), 8.9 kPa for 1 adenoma, 20 kPa for one regenerative node and 29 kPa for one cholangiofibroma, and for the malignant FLLs 36 (4.1-142.9) kPa: 44.8 kPa for 16 hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), 70.7 kPa for 7 cholangiocarcinoma (CCC) and 29.5 kPa for the 41 metastasis (p<0.001). Malignant FLLs were significantly stiffer than benign FLLs (p<0.0001). Cholangiocarcinomas were the stiffest malignant FFLs with significantly higher values as compared to HCCs and metastases (p=0.033 and p=0.0079, respectively). No significant difference in stiffness could be observed between the different benign FLL entities. No significant difference was observed whether 2D-SWE included the whole FLL, the periphery or only the hardest area of the FLL.Conclusions: 2D-SWE provides further characterising information for interpretation of FLLs and may be useful at least in differentiation of CCCs and HCCs.Abbreviations: ALT: alanine aminotransaminase; AST: aspartate aminotransaminase; AUROC: area under the ROC; ARFI: acoustic radiation force impulse; CCC: cholangiocarcinoma; CECT: contrast-enhanced CT; CEMRI: contrast-enhanced MRI; CEUS: contrast-enhanced ultrasound; FFS: focal fatty sparing; FLL: focal liver lesion; FNH: focal nodular hyperplasia; GGT: gamma-glutamyl-transferase; HCC: hepatocellular carcinoma; NASH: nonalcoholic steatohepatitis; pSWE: point shear wave elastography; ROC: receiver-operating-characteristic; ROI: region of interest; 2D-SWE: 2D-shear wave elastography; TE: transient elastography.
Sustained virological response after 4-week ritonavir-boosted paritaprevir, ombitasvir and dasabuvir plus ribavirin treatment in a kidney transplant recipient
Authors: Calvanese Claudio , Lisotti Andrea , Fiorenza Saverio , Mandreoli Marcora , Caletti Giancarlo , Fusaroli Pietro
Published: September 2017

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Genetic Risk Factors for Autoimmune Thyroid Disease might Affect the Susceptibility to and Modulate the Progression of Primary Biliary Cholangitis
Authors: Kuś Aleksander , Grabowska Magdalena Arłukowicz , Szymański Konrad , Wunsch Ewa , Milkiewicz Małgorzata , Płoski Rafał , Shums Zakera , Norman Gary L. , Milkiewicz Piotr , Bednarczuk Tomasz , Krawczyk Marcin
Published: September 2017

Background & Aims: Patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) frequently suffer from extrahepatic autoimmune conditions, of which autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) is one of the most common. Previous studies identified several genetic variants increasing the odds of developing AITD. Here we investigate whether AITD-associated polymorphisms might also play a role in the development and clinical course of PBC and PBC associated with AITD (PBC-AITD).Methods: To this end, we prospectively recruited 230 patients with PBC and 421 healthy controls. Among recruited patients, 64 (30.9%) had PBC-AITD as diagnosed by elevated serum TPO-antibodies. In all subjects we genotyped 10 variants previously associated with AITD.Results: We detected significant associations between the PTPN22 polymorphism and risk of developing PBC (rs2476601, OR=1.43, P=0.035) as well as PBC-AITD (OR=1.74, P=0.028). The IL2RA polymorphism was associated with liver cirrhosis (rs41295061, OR=1.76, P=0.033) whereas the MMEL1 polymorphism increased the risk of requiring liver transplantation (rs2843403, OR=1.70, P=0.023). Although no significant differences in clinical or biochemical characteristics between patients with PBC and PBC-AITD were seen (all P>0.05), liver function tests and metabolic traits in PBC patients were significantly (all P<0.05) affected by the CTLA4 (rs3087243), MMEL1 (rs2843403), PTPN22 (rs2476601) and RNASET2 (rs9355610) variants.Conclusion: Our study demonstrates the existence of a genetic overlap between PBC and AITD. Apparently, genetic variants known to increase the AITD risk might affect the clinical course of PBC. On the other hand, AITD per se does not seem to significantly influence the natural history of PBC.Abbreviations: AITD: autoimmune thyroid disease; ALP: alkaline phosphatase; ALT: alanine transaminase; AMA: anti-mitochondrial autoantibodies; AST: aspartate aminotransferase; DM1: diabetes mellitus type 1; ELISA: enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method; GGT: gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase; GD: Graves’ disease; GWAS: genome-wide association studies; HT: Hashimoto thyroiditis; HWE: Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium; Lyp: lymphoid-specific protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor type 22; OR: odds ratio; PBC: primary biliary cholangitis; RA: rheumatoid arthritis; SLE: systemic lupus erythematosus; TPOAb: thyroid peroxidase antibody; UDCA: ursodeoxycholic acid.
Nunes, Rui. A crisálida. Lisboa: Relógio D’Água, 2016.
Authors: Guerreiro Emanuel
Published: September 2017

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Quatro olhares sobre Angola: entrevistas com Boaventura Cardoso, Pepetela, José Eduardo Agualusa e Ondjaki
Authors: Minuzzi Luara Pinto
Published: September 2017

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EFFECT OF STOCKING DENSITY ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF DOMESTICATED BARB (Barbonymus balleroides)
Authors: Arifin Otong Zenal , Subagja Jojo , Prakoso Vitas Atmadi , Suhud Endang Haris
Published: September 2017

Barb (Barbonymus balleroides) considerably has economic potential as aquaculture commodity. However, there was still lack of development on aquaculture for this species. This study was conducted to observe the effect of different stocking density on growth of barb. The fish (body weight: 14.89 ± 0.13 g) were stocked in nine floating nets (dimension: 2 m x 2 m x 1 m) inside the concrete ponds with three stocking density treatments (10, 15, and 20 fish/m3). Each treatment consisted of three replications. Fish were fed on commercial pellet (30% of crude protein) as much as 3% of the biomass per day with twice a day of feeding frequency. Data of growth performances (body weight, specific growth rate, average daily growth, biomass, food conversion ratio, and survival rate) were collected every 30 days during 90 days of rearing period. Water quality variables (temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen) were observed during experiment. The results showed that the optimal stocking density for the growth of barb was 10 fish/m3. Best value of food conversion ratio was found 10 fish/m3 compared with 15 and 20 fish/m3 (P<0.05). Meanwhile, there were no significant differences on survival rate between treatments. These results also showed the potential of rearing barb on culture ponds with appropriate stocking density.
Effect of Ca/P electrolyte concentration on MAO biofilm on Ti alloy surface
Authors: Wang Fengbiao , Liu Jingkai , Shu Qilin
Published: September 2017

In order to prepare functional films containing a predetermined ratio of calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) and guide the rational allocation of chemical reagents on a titanium (Ti) alloy surface, calcium/phosphorus biological films were fabricated by using the microarc oxidation (MAO) process. The films’ morphology and elemental composition were observed and analyzed. Moreover, a wear resistance test was performed on the film surface. The influence of different concentrations and calcium/phosphorus molar ratios of the films and the MAO system were researched. The effects of electrolyte concentration on the calcium/phosphorus molar ratio of the films were also investigated. The experimental results show that with an increase in electrolyte concentration, the calcium and phosphorus contents of the films all decreased, but the calcium/phosphorus ratio increased. Similarly, the values of the calcium/phosphorus molar ratio and the calcium and phosphorus contents in the films all became lower. Furthermore, a proper electrolyte concentration is helpful in improving the surface properties of the films. If preparation of a film with a certain calcium/phosphorus molar ratio is wanted, this certain ratio can determine the different electrolyte molar concentrations of calcium/phosphorus and it can roughly determine the ratio of the compound reagent and improve the test efficiency.
Kinematic analysis of seismic slope stability with a discretisation technique and pseudo-dynamic approach: a new perspective
Authors: Qin C.-B. , Chian S. C.
Published: September 2017

Slopes are more vulnerable to instability when subjected to earthquake ground shaking. In order to account for the dynamic forces induced by ground shaking, a novel procedure is introduced in this paper to estimate slope stability under the ultimate limit state with a combination of pseudo-dynamic approach and discretisation technique. A pseudo-dynamic approach is adopted which allows the introduction of an arbitrary time history of seismic accelerations. In order to consider non-uniformity of soil properties of the slope, the discretisation technique is proposed with the aim of generating a potential failure mechanism with discretised points by forward difference ‘point-to-point’ method. Infinitesimal trapezoidal elements composed of successive discretised points and sloping surface are selected for kinematic analysis. In this way, the problem is decomposed into separate components, which aids computational effort. The upper-bound solutions of limiting surcharge loading and yield seismic acceleration are thereafter obtained with the equilibrium of total external work rate and internal energy dissipation rate through the summation from all infinitesimal elements. The methodology is validated through comparison with its degraded approach and conventional upper-bound analysis. Further parametric study is also carried out to highlight the influence of the various soil and loading parameters on the critical seismic acceleration.
THE DEBRIS PARTICLES ANALYSIS OF RSG GAS COOLANT TO ANTICIPATE SEDIMENT INDUCED CORROSION
Authors: Sriyono Sriyono , Kusumastuti Rahayu , Butarbutar Sofia Loren , Hafid Abdul , Sunaryo Geni Rina , Lestari Diyah E. , Ratnawati Elisabeth
Published: September 2017

THE DEBRIS PARTICLES ANALYSIS OF RSG-GAS COOLANT TO ANTICIPATE SEDIMENT-INDUCED CORROSION. The reliability of the structures, systems and components (SSC) of the G.A. Siwabessy Multipurpose Research Reactor (RSG-GAS) should be maintained to keep the reactor operates safely. Chemical control and management of coolant is one factor which determines the SSC’s reliability. The debris sedimentation in the primary coolant system must be examined. Debris occurs in the reactor pool, originating from airborne dust from the engineering hall. Several elements contained by the sediment can induce corrosion. This research was conducted to identify the trace elements which were contained in the sediments and determine their concentrations. The objective was to anticipate the occurrence of galvanic and pitting corrosion due to the presence of elements which are more noble than aluminum. The measurement methodology is Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA). Two groups of samples were analyzed; the first group was sampled from the debris trapped in the mechanical filter after the resin column, or known as the resin trap, and second was sampled from the debris which adhered to the heat exchanger tube. The primary coolant debris analysis showed that the neutron-activated sediment contained Na-24, Na-25, Al-28, Mg-27, Cr-51, Mn-54, Mn-56, Co-58, Co-60, Ni-65, and Fe-59. The Mn, Cr, Co, Ni, and Fe are more noble than aluminum can induce galvanic corrosion while Na, Ba, Al, and Mg are not. The radionuclides contained by the result of neutron activation of sediment from the heat exchanger tube are Mn-56, Na-24, As-76, Br-82, Fe-59, Zn-65, Cr-51, La-140, and Sc-46 which are mostly carbon steel corrosion products. Those elements do not initiate galvanic corrosion. The prevention of galvanic corrosion can be done by periodic maintenance.Key Words : sediment, debris, corrosion, galvanic, pitting, RSG Gas
Perbandingan Keekonomian Transmisi HVDC dan Pengangkutan Batubara Dalam Pengembangan Kelistrikan Kalimantan - Sulawesi
Authors: Liun Edwaren
Published: September 2017

Sehubungan dengan karakteristik beban pada banyak wilayah di Indonesia, sistem kelistrikan sering tidak efisien. Di daerah yang jauh dari jaringan interkoneksi dan pulau terpencil misalnya, pemilihan jenis pembangkit berbahanbakar murah seperti batubara tidak tidak dapat diterapkan, sedangkanpembangkit berbahanbakar minyak biayanya sangat tinggi dan memberatkan beban subsidi. Akibatnya daerah tersebut tetap menggunakan pembangkit berbahanbakar minyak dengan membatasi waktu nyala pembangkit dan konsumen tidak mendapat layanan memuaskan. Makalah ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis sejauh mana kemanfaatan sistem transmisi HVDC dari Kalimantan ke Sulawesi sehingga konsumen mendapat layanan lebih baik dan dapat berproduksi untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan. Metode yang digunakan dalam analisis ini adalah penelusuran pustaka dan melakukan perhitungan berdasarkan formula yang ada. Hasil yang diperoleh bahwa segi biaya langsung, sistem HVDC yang meliputi biaya saluran transmisi, konverter dan rugi-rugi daya berkisar antara 0,46 – 0,60 USD¢/kWh untuk kapasitas daya berkisar antara 500 – 2000 MWe. Sedangkan biaya angkut batubara berkisar antara 0,544 – 0,645 USD ¢/kWh untuk tongkang berukuran panjang antara 270 – 330 feet. Dengan demikian, untuk wilayah Indonesia dengan banyak pulau dan daerah terpencil memungkinkan secara lebih ekonomis untuk menyalurkan listrik dengan transmisi HVDC dari pulau atau daerah yang sistem listriknya telah berkembang, sehingga wilayah terpencil juga mendapat layanan listrik yang prima untuk meningkatkan kesejahteraan dan pendapatan penduduknya.
Boric Acid Radiolysis in Primary Coolant Water of PWR at Temperature of 250oC
Authors: Sunaryo Geni Rina
Published: September 2017

BORIC ACID RADIOLYSIS IN PRIMARY COOLANT WATER OF PWR AT TEMPERATURE OF 250oC. The existence of oxygen in the primary coolant system of PWR could lead to corrosion, hence it is very important to suppress the oxygen concentration in the system. Therefore, study of the effect of boric acid addition into the primary coolant water system of PWR to suppress oxygen concentration resulted from gamma-ray radiation is essential to be performed. The aim of this research is to understand reaction mechanism at temperature of 2500C and the effect of boric acid adding toward oxygen concentration in the PWR primary coolant water. Methodology used is simulation using Facsimile software. Input for the software namely radiolysis reaction mechanism for pure water, G value from radiolysis product, dose rate of 1 and 104 Gy/s, aeration and deaeration system, and specific reaction of boric acid with hydroxyl radical and hydrated electron at temperature 250C and 3000C. The output are in the form of irradiation time vs oxygen concentration time series. The results show that the oxygen production increase significantly with the irradiation time and reach the saturated concentration at 107s. Based on the plot of oxygen’s concentration at 107s vs boric acid, several results are as following: oxygen concentration significantly suppressed by boric acid addition and gives the exponential decreasement, the higher dose rate gives the higher concentration of oxygen, the aeration system gives no effect on suppressing oxygen concentration at boric acid addition up to 0.1M.
Analisis Kinerja Bahan Bakar Reaktor Tipe HTGR Sebagai Penghalang Produk Fisi
Authors: Dewita Erlan , Alimah Siti
Published: September 2017

ANALISIS KINERJA BAHAN BAKAR REAKTOR TIPE HTGR SEBAGAI PENGHALANG PRODUK FISI. Reaktor tipe HTGR merupakan reaktor berpendingin gas temperatur tinggi (~ 900oC). Terdapat 2 tipe elemen bakar HTGR yaitu prismatik dan pebble bed. Kedua tipe elemen bakar tersebut tersusun dari partikel berlapis TRISO yang terdiri dari lapisan IPyC, SiC dan OPyC yang berfungsi sebagai pengungkung produk fisi dan menjaga integritas bahan bakar. Reaktor beroperasi dengan temperatur tinggi, sehingga kinerja/ kemampuan bahan bakar dalam menahan produk fisi perlu diketahui. Tujuan studi adalah untuk memperoleh  pemahaman tentang  karakteristik produk fisi yang dihasilkan bahan bakar, karakteristik penghalang dan kinerja bahan bakar dalam menahan produk fisi. Metode yang digunakan adalah kajian dan analisis dengan mengevaluasi kemampuan penghalang (barrier) dalam menahan produk fisi pada elemen bakar prismatik dan pebble. Hasil studi menunjukkan bahwa terdapat beberapa  mekanisme potensial lepasnya produk fisi, yaitu: difusi melalui lapisan, kerusakan lapisan, korosi SiC oleh produk fisi palladium dan dekomposisi termal SiC. Bahan bakar merupakan penghalang pertama terhadap lepasnya radionuklida produk fisi sedangkan lapisan SiC merupakan penghalang utama yang menahan sebagian besar produk fisi gas dan padat pada temperatur operasi normal (< 1250°C). Produk fisi penting yang terbentuk adalah 137Cs, 107 Pd, 106Rh, 106Ru, 110mAg, 134I, 131Cs, 137Cs, 90Sr, 88Kr dan 133Xe, 132Te, 140La dan 239Pu. Di antara produk fisi tersebut, paladium (Pd) yang lepas dari kernel dan mencapai lapisan SiC dapat bereaksi dan menyebabkan korosi. Berdasarkan hal itu, untuk menjaga integritas bahan bakar harus dilakukan pembatasan kondisi operasi reaktor, seperti: temperatur, derajat bakar, energi aktivasi produk fisi dan kualitas bahan bakar. Pada bahan bakar tipe prismatik, terdapat 8 penghalang, yaitu: kernel bahan bakar, lapisan SiC dan PyC, matriks grafit, kompak (pil) bahan bakar, sleeve grafit, sirkuit primer, blok grafit heksagonal dan bangunan reaktor. Sedangkan pada bahan bakar pebble terdapat 6 penghalang, yaitu kernel bahan bakar, lapisan SiC dan PyC, matriks grafit, lapisan grafit sebelah luar, sirkuit primer dan bangunan reaktor. Namun, jumlah  penghalang bukan merupakan satu-satunya faktor yang menentukan adanya kemungkinan lepasnya  produk fisi ke lingkungan.
Revisando a História Antiga: identidades, integração e outras abordagens contemporâneas
Authors: Costa Alex Aparecido da
Published: September 2017

Resenha de: GUARINELLO, Norberto Luiz. História Antiga. São Paulo: Contexto, 2014. 174p.
A Clinical Evaluation of Deproteinization and Different Cavity Designs on Resin Restoration Performance in MIH-Affected Molars: Two-Year Results
Authors: Sönmez Hayriye , Saat Sinem
Published: September 2017

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical effects of deproteinization of the hypomineralized enamel and different cavity designs on the performance of the composite resin restorations(CRRs) placed into the cavities of MIH (molar incisor hypomineralization)-affected molars. Study design: 95 MIH-affected permanent first molars (PFMs) and 31 caries but not MIH-affected PFMs (126 teeth in total) were included in the study. The MIH-affected molars were divided into three groups. In Group I, all hypomineralized tissue was removed until healthy enamel was reached. In Group II, carious and cheesy hypomineralized tissue was removed until a reasonable resistance was detected in the hypomineralized tissue. In Group III, cavities designed as Group II, differently from this group deproteinization of the left hypomineralized tissue was performed prior to the placement of CRRs. Group IV served as the control group consisting of unaffected carious PFMs. Restorations were evaluated according to modified USPHS criteria for 24 months. Results: The retention rates were 93.7% for Group I, 80.7% for Group II, 93.5% for Group III and 100% for Group IV. The success rate for the restorations in Group II proved significantly lower (p<0.05) than that of the other three groups. No significant difference in success rates was observed between Group I, Group III and Group IV (p>0.05) at the end of 24 months. Conclusions: Failure of the restorations was predominant in the group that the hypomineralized tissue was left surrounding the cavities. Deproteinization of the hypomineralized enamel was found to enhance the retention rates of CRRs.