bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PARETO-OPTIMIZATION OF THE PRODUCTION SCHEDULE BASED ON THE METHOD OF ANTS OF COLONIES
Authors:   St. Petersburg State University of Aerospace Instrumentation, Skobtsov Y. , Chengar O. ,   Sevastopol State University
Published: October 2018

To optimize the functioning of the automated machining technological complex together with a modified ant algorithm an object model of the organizational and technological process of loading equipment was developed, representing a system of interacting classes of its typical components. The object model describes the structure of the classes that make up the production process system, their attributes, operations, relationships with other classes. The model allows to calculate the values of the objective function and evaluate quality of potential solutions. For the first time, the use of ant algorithms in conjunction with object-oriented simulation modeling is proposed to optimize the production schedule. Every artificial ant finds a potential solution to the problem. The concentration of artificial pheromone is determined by the quality of the solution with respect to the optimization criteria used. For artificial ants formulas for calculating the concentration of pheromone are proposed and transition rules that control the process of searching for the optimal solution are defined. Multi criteria optimization with adaptive weights is proposed, where in the search process the weights of the objective function are corrected. The following variants of choosing the optimality criteria are considered: maximization of the average load factor of the process equipment, minimization of the violation of the deadlines for manufacturing the order with the minimum duration of the manufacturing cycle of the parts, minimization of the violation of the deadlines for the manufacture of the order, minimization of the time limits for manufacturing the order, and the time of adjustment of equipment. Experimental studies were performed to solve the problem of two and three-criteria optimization using the example of an automated technological complex for machining.
ESTUDO DA REMOÇÃO DE ÍONS FERRO E MANGANÊS DA ÁGUA UTILIZANDO PERÓXIDO DE HIDROGÊNIO COMO AGENTE OXIDANTE
Authors: Apolinario Mayara Da Fonseca , Meireles Laís Muniz , Santana Henrique Freitas , Silva Deusanilde De Jesus
Published: October 2018

O despejo inadequado de efluentes em lagos e rios, associado ao incremento da matéria orgânica dissolvida, tem sido apontado como uma das principais causas do aumento da concentração de íons ferro e manganês presentes na água. Neste trabalho, estudou-se o uso de peróxido de hidrogênio como agente oxidante, em pH próximo ao neutro, na tentativa de remover os íons na forma de precipitados. Foram realizados ensaios em testes de jarros em diferentes concentrações do oxidante, entre valores de 0.63 a 3.8ppm, associado a uma dosagem de 20ppm de PAC, coagulante usualmente utilizados em Estações de Tratamento de Água. Nestas condições, observou-se a remoção de 90% de íons ferro e 36% de íons manganês, sendo que o consumo de peroxido foi de até 40%. Não foi observado efeito significativo sobre os resultados para as diferentes dosagens de oxidante.
Study and Implementation of the Passive-Based Control Law for the Boost Inverter
Authors: Vázquez Nimrod , Hernández Claudia , Rodríguez Elías , Álvarez Jaime , Arau Jaime
Published: October 2018

The passivity-based control has been proposed to control different non-linear systems, but practical implementation aspects have not been discussed on most of them. One of those systems is the buck inverter. In some applications it is necessary the boosting capability additionally to the inversion capability, therefore a boost inverter has been proposed in those cases, since the buck inverter does not have those capabilities. In this paper the practical implementation of the passivity-based control for the boost inverter is discussed in some detail, and a modified controller is proposed to overcome the implementation drawbacks
Procedimentos de Projeto de Controladores Repetitivos para o Estágio de Saída de Fontes Ininterruptas de Energia
Authors: Michels Leandro , Gründling Hilton A.
Published: October 2018

Este artigo apresenta um procedimento de projeto de controladores repetitivos em tempo discreto para inversores PWM monofásicos para aplicações em fontes ininterruptas de energia (UPS). O procedimento de projeto proposto é focado para uma classe de controladores repetitivos de estrutura simples, que são os mais freqüentemente empregados para a aplicação em questão. O princípio de funcionamento dos controladores repetitivos é discutido em detalhes, assim como as etapas de projeto para obtenção de um controlador estável em malha fechada com rápida taxa de convergência e pequeno erro em regime permanente para várias condições de carga. Para ilustrar o procedimento de projeto proposto, são apresentados exemplos de projeto de controladores repetitivos usando no laço de realimentação instantânea uma lei de controle do tipo proporcional-derivativa com alimentação à frente (PDfeedforward). Adicionalmente, são apresentados resultados experimentais, obtidos em protótipo de 1kVA para diferentes condições de carga, com o propósito de validar o procedimento proposto.
Sistema de Geração Distribuída Utilizando Gerador de Indução Trifásico e Fontes CC Conectado a Rede Monofásica
Authors: Machado Ricardo Quadros , Buso Simone , Pomilio José Antenor
Published: October 2018

Este artigo apresenta uma nova forma de conectar diretamente um gerador de indução trifásico a uma rede monofásica. O funcionamento do sistema prevê que seja garantida ao usuário local energia elétrica de boa qualidade (tensões senoidais e equilibradas, freqüência fixa e boa regulação de tensão). Para a rede monofásica, controla-se o fluxo de potência de modo que o fator de potência resultante seja unitário. A obtenção destes comportamentos se dá com o uso de um conversor CC-CA PWM trifásico, conectado em derivação no ponto de acoplamento das cargas locais. Por este conversor flui uma parcela da potência da carga relacionada com desequilíbrios e distorções de corrente. A maior parte da potência ativa não precisa ser processada pelo conversor quando não há fonte CC conectada ao barramento CC, o que dá a esta solução um rendimento maior do que se obtém com as alternativas de dupla conversão (retificador e inversor). Há também a possibilidade de fontes CC (células a combustível, painéis fotovoltáicos ou bancos de baterias) serem conectadas ao barramento CC. Com isso, é ampliada a capacidade geradora. O controle dos conversores é feito através de um DSP de ponto fixo e de um circuito integrado dedicado.
Aproveitamento viável de módulos Fotovoltaicos Através do Envio da Energia à Rede Comercial Utilizando Conversores Estáticos de Energia
Authors: Martins Denizar Cruz , Demonti Rogers
Published: October 2018

Neste trabalho é proposta uma técnica simples, porém robusta para aproveitamento da energia elétrica gerada por módulos fotovoltaicos. Através deste sistema a energia é convertida, adaptada e enviada à rede elétrica comercial. A instalação dos módulos fotovoltaicos pode ser feita no próprio local de consumo, dispensando a utilização de linhas de transmissão e/ou distribuição. A forma de onda da corrente de saída é senoidal, tomandose como referência a própria rede comercial. Obtém-se assim, baixa distorção harmônica total, de maneira que a qualidade da energia elétrica seja preservada. Além disso, outros requisitos são alcançados, como o isolamento galvânico entre os painéis e a rede, e a proteção contra falta de energia. São apresentados os estágios de potência, a estratégia de controle, o princípio de operação do sistema, os resultados de simulação e os resultados experimentais obtidos com um protótipo de laboratório.
A Soft Switching Half-Bridge Doubler Boost Converter Operating with Unity Power Factor
Authors: Neto Roberto Mendes Finzi , Marra Enes Gonçalves , Tofoli Fernando Lessa , Freitas Luiz Carlos de
Published: October 2018

This paper proposes a half-bridge doubler boost converter associated with an active commutation cell in order to minimize commutation losses. The converter operates with unity power factor and is able to provide high output voltages. The voltages across the semiconductor devices are low and approximately equal to the output voltage, as doubled output voltages and reduced high frequency ripple can be achieved. A detailed mathematical analysis concerning its operation is presented, since simulation and experimental results describe the converter performance.
Comportamento do Motor de Indução Trifásico Alimentado por Inversor de Freqüência Incluindo os Efeitos da Saturação Magnética
Authors: Neto Luciano Martins , Silva Rui Vagner Rodrigues da , Gontijo André Luiz
Published: October 2018

Este artigo apresenta um estudo do motor de indução trifásico alimentado por um inversor de freqüência, considerando os efeitos da saturação magnética, tanto no valor eficaz, como nas distorções na forma de onda de tensão ou corrente. Estes efeitos são contemplados em uma modelagem matemática específica, cujas variáveis de estado são grandezas de fase. Resultados experimentais, e de simulações computacionais com e sem saturação são confrontados.
Estudo do Inversor ĆUK Integrado Monofásico em Operação Autônoma no Modo de Condução Descontínua
Authors: Inoue Rafael T. , Dionizio Anderson A. , Sampaio Leonardo P. , Da Silva Sérgio A. O. , De Brito Moacyr A. G. , Pelz Guilherme M.
Published: October 2018

Estruturas de inversores integrados vêm sendo amplamente adotados na interface de fontes de energia elétrica em CC com aplicações em CA. Desta forma, este trabalho contribui com estudos acerca do inversor Ćuk integrado (ICI) monofásico, apresentando a modelagem da estrutura, além de uma nova estratégia de comutação para os interruptores de potência. O ICI é projetado para operar no modo de condução descontinua, bem como para atuar de forma autônoma, a fim de fornecer tensão senoidal e controlada para cargas locais em CA. A partir da modelagem em espaço de estados, é obtida a função de transferência do inversor, bem como projetado o controlador de tensão. O ICI se destaca por: i) empregar menor número de componentes; ii) operar somente com um interruptor em alta frequência; iii) ser capaz de elevar a tensão de entrada e fornecer uma tensão senoidal de forma simultânea. Por meio de resultados de simulações computacionais e experimentais, a viabilidade do ICI é avaliada e validada. Os testes experimentais demonstram que o ICI possui elevado rendimento e é capaz de fornecer uma tensão senoidal com baixa distorção harmônica.
Źródła ikonograficzne do badań afrykanistycznych. Zarys problematyki
Authors: Pawłowska Aneta , Rubinkowska-Anioł Hanna
Published: October 2018

Celem artykułu jest rozważenie, czy możliwe jest wsparcie badań nad historią i kulturą Afryki Subsaharyjskiej dzięki analizie źródeł ikonograficznych związanych z tym kontynentem. Najistotniejszym powodem takiego postępowania jest zasadniczy brak dokumentów pisanych w tradycyjnej kulturze afrykańskiej. Równie ważnym elementem analiz zawartych w artykule jest zwrócenie uwagi na zróżnicowanie przedstawień wizualnych pochodzących z tego obszaru geograficznego. Kolejną przesłanką do zagłębienia się w ikonografię kontynentu może być próba poszerzenia odbioru kultury Afryki, zwłaszcza zaś próba porzucenia europocentrycznych sposobów opisywania świata.
Evaluating programming self-efficacy in the context of inquiry skills and problem-solving skills: A perspective from teacher education
Authors: Çoklar Ahmet Naci , Akçay Arif
Published: October 2018

It is stated that programming skills, which are ever-increasingly becoming crucial nowadays, have an impact on cognitive processes and promote individualâ€™s self-efficacy in different ways. It is noted that students with programming skills have the character of problem solving, inquiry and being able to make decisions, which are all requisites of todayâ€™s education system.. The purpose of this research is to examine the programming self-efficacy of Information Technologies and Software teacher candidates, who are trained in the field of programming. In total, 707 students, who are studying in the Department of Computer and Instructional Technologies Education of the Faculty of Education of eight universities in Turkey, participated in this research. The results of the research demonstrate that studentsâ€™ programming self-efficacy is at medium level, whereas high level is observed for their inquiry and problem-solving skills. Also, inquiry skills have a significant impact on their perceived programming self-efficacy; whereas problem-solving skills has not any impact on it.
Message From Editor
Authors: Bayram Servet
Published: October 2018

Dear Readers,It is the great honour for us to publish the Tenth Volume of World Journal on Educational Technology (WJET). WJET welcomes original empirical investigations and comprehensive literature review articles focusing on topics related to current issues of educational technology and interactive learning systems. WJET is a published quarterly and it is devoted to be a joint platform for presenting and discussing the emerging developments on educational technology issues in an international view.
Perceived Barriers to Exercise in the First Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Sytsma Terin T. , Zimmerman Kate P. , Manning Jennifer B. , Jenkins Sarah M. , Nelson Nancy C. , Clark Matthew M. , Boldt Kristi , Borowski Kristi S.
Published: October 2018

Regular physical activity has been shown to improve pregnancy outcomes. We sought to identify barriers to exercise during the first trimester of pregnancy. Five hundred forty-nine pregnant women in their first trimester rated barriers to exercise on a scale of 1 (not a barrier) to 5 (a huge barrier) and recorded physical activity (minutes/week). Women were placed into one of three classifications, nonexercisers (zero exercise), infrequent exercisers (<150 minutes/week), or exercisers (≥150 minutes/week). The greatest barriers (mean) were nausea/fatigue (3.0) and lack of time (2.6). Exercisers reported significantly lower barrier levels. Nausea/fatigue was a greater barrier for nonexercisers compared to exercisers (3.6 vs 2.8, p < .001). Focusing education and interventions on these barriers may help pregnant women achieve healthy exercise levels.
Pediatric Nurse Practitioner Barriers to Supporting Breastfeeding by Mothers and Infants
Authors: Brzezinski Lisa , Mimm Nancy , Porter Sallie
Published: October 2018

Infant health and development outcomes are positively affected by breastfeeding. Despite the multitude of breastfeeding benefits to mothers and infants along with strong recommendations for exclusive breastfeeding from government agencies and professional associations, the rate of exclusive breastfeeding during the first six months of life remains low. Strongly positive attitudes make pediatric nurse practitioners, especially those in primary care settings, ideally positioned to encourage, support, and provide breastfeeding management to mothers and infants. However, pediatric nurse practitioners may report breastfeeding education and breastfeeding skills deficits along with other barriers to optimal breastfeeding care.
Social Support in the “Fourth Trimester”: A Qualitative Analysis of Women at 1 Month and 3 Months Postpartum
Authors: Lubker Cornish Disa , Roberts Dobie Susan
Published: October 2018

Social support is essential in the postpartum period when support is positively associated with infant care and maternal adaptation and its absence is associated with postpartum depression. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore how postpartum women experience social support and variations in the type and quantity received. Researchers conducted two semistructured interviews with a convenience sample of 22 participants at approximately one month and three months postpartum. Social support varied in quality and quantity. Respondents indicated that the presence of support made the postpartum period easier, less stressful, and more enjoyable. Efforts to help women plan for postpartum social support during pregnancy should focus on relationships and social networks as well as individual behaviors and community services.
ALGILANAN KITLIĞIN PSİKOLOJİK ETKİLERİNİN SATIN ALMA DAVRANIŞI ÜZERİNDEKİ ROLÜ
Authors: CAN Polat , ŞEN Gözde
Published: October 2018

Günümüzde ürün ve hizmetlere erişimin kolaylaşması rekabet şartlarını zorlaştırmakta ve bu durum ise işletmeleri tüketicinin tercihini etkileyebilmek için yeni stratejiler geliştirmeye yönlendirmektedir. Bu stratejilerden biri de algılanan kıtlıktır. Tüketici davranışı çalışmalarında yeni bir kavramlardan biri olan algılanan kıtlık, ürünün algılanan değerini artırmakta ve tüketicinin tercihlerini etkilemektedir. Bu bağlamda çalışmanın amacı; işletme tarafından oluşturulan ve ürünün kıt olduğu yönündeki algılamanın, tüketicide yarattığı psikolojik etkiyi incelemektir. Başka bir ifadeyle, işletme tarafından stratejik amaçlar doğrultusunda oluşturulan algılanan kıtlık durumuna, tüketicinin vereceği tepkiyi öğrenmektir. Bu amaç doğrultusunda gerçekleştirilen araştırmada veri toplama yöntemi olarak anket tekniği uygulanmış ve uygulama hızlı moda sektöründe gerçekleştirilmiştir. Elde edilen verilerin analizinde, frekans dağılımları, ortalama, standart sapma, güvenilirlik analizi, doğrulayıcı faktör analizi ve yapısal eşitlik modelleme (yol) analizleri kullanılmıştır. Analizlerin sonucunda; tüketicinin bilinçli olarak işletme tarafından oluşturulan algılanan kıtlık mesajları ile ürünün tedarikinin kısıtlanmadığı durumları birbirinden ayırt edebildiği ve bu durumun satın alma davranışının etkilendiği söylenebilir.
COMPOR: a Methodology, a Component Model, a Component based Framework and Tools to Build Multiagent Systems
Authors: Oliveira de Almeira Hyggo , De Barros Costa Evandro , De Barros Paes Rodrigo , Percusich Angelo
Published: October 2018

In this paper a set of guidelines, techniques and tools to develop software for multiagent systems (MAS), named COMPOR, are introduced. The main objetive is to provide an effective approach to deal with the dynamic and openness characteristics of such systems. COMPOR is based on a conceptual model for a society of agents named MATHEMA and on the component based software development. We present a methodology, a component model, a framework, and an environment to aid during the development process of MAS. We also discuss the aplication of COMPOR for an electronic commerce negotiation problem.
Regional Inequality Based on Infrastructure Indicators Using Principal Component Analysis (PCA)
Authors: Windhani Kikin , Hardoyono Fajar
Published: October 2018

This research aimed to identify the development gap among 27 sub-districts in Banyumas Regency based on infrastructure indicators using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The infrastructure indicators used were the quality of road, lighting, transportation, market, bridges and schools. The data were collected by observation in 27 sub-districts of Banyumas Regency. From the analysis result with PCA, it can be determined that based on infrastructure indicators, the sub-districts in Banyumas Regency were divided into 4 clusters, namely: Cluster I with 1 sub-district; Cluster II with 3 sub-districts; Cluster III with 3 sub-districts, and the remainining 20 sub-districts were in Cluster IV.Keywords: Gap, Infrastructure, Principal Component Analysis (PCA).
Recycling Prospects for Saponite-Containing Water at Diamond Processing Plants in Arkhangelsk Region, Russia
Authors: Chanturiya Valentine A. , Minenko Vladimir G. , Makarov Dmitriy V. , Suvorova Olga V. , Selivanova Ekaterina A.
Published: October 2018

The analysis of methods of cleaning and processing of saponite-bearing technogenic waters of diamond mining enterprises of the Arkhangelsk region is carried out. The perspective of the electrochemical separation method for extracting saponite from man-caused waters, providing a targeted change in its structural-texture, physico-chemical and mechanical properties, is shown. The possible directions of realization of saponite and products of its modification in various branches of industry are considered.
To What Extent Do Regional Effects Influence Firms’ Capital Structure? The Case of Southern Italian SMEs’
Authors: Butzbach Olivier , Sarno Domenico
Published: October 2018

There is tremendous interest, in the economic literature, for the determinants of firms’ capital structure decisions. A rich body of empirical works now exists that purports to identify firm- and country-level factors affecting firms’ financing patterns. In addition, more recently, a new stream of studies has emerged that investigates cross-regional variation in small firms’ capital structure. While small firms’ leverage does seem to vary across regions, at least in countries where significant regional differences in economic and financial development and in the quality of institutions exist, not much yet is known about variation in debt maturity, in debt in relation to equity, and between different types of small firms. The present paper aims to fill this gap through an empirical analysis of cross-regional variation in the capital structure of a sample of about 30,000 Italian small firms over a 13-year period, including the aftermath of the credit crunch that followed the 2007-8 global financial crisis. The findings confirm the view that small firms in underdeveloped regions are more financially constrained, but also amend some of the results shown in the literature, in particular by showing how small firms in Italy’s Southern regions have higher levels of equity and fixed assets than small firms in other regions.
Pulse Current of Multi-Needle Negative Corona Discharge and Its Electromagnetic Radiation Characteristics
Authors: Wang Chuang , Chen Xi , Ouyang Jiting , Fu Jialu
Published: October 2018

Negative corona discharges occur widely in high voltage transmission lines and charged aircraft, which can cause strong electromagnetic interference. Negative corona discharge is typically performed simultaneously at multiple discharge points. In this study, the current and its EM radiation characteristics of single-needle and multi-needle negative corona discharge in different conditions were tested. The current and electromagnetic radiation characteristics of the two discharge structures were compared. The dipole radiation model was established to analyze the EM radiation characteristics of the negative corona discharge.The results show that, It is only when the voltage reaches a certain threshold that the current and electromagnetic radiation fields of the multi-needle discharge structure will be superimposed and their amplitudes will increase significantly. The frequency of electromagnetic radiation signal does not change with the number of needles, cathode geometry and applied voltage, but only depends on ambient pressure. It provides a basis for detecting corona discharge sources under different conditions.
Arctic Sea Ice Surface Roughness Derived from Multi-Angular Reflectance Satellite Imagery
Authors: Nolin Anne W.
Published: October 2018

Sea ice surface roughness affects ice-atmosphere interactions, serves as an indicator of ice age, shows patterns of ice convergence and divergence, affects the spatial extent of summer melt ponds, and ice albedo. We have developed a method for mapping sea ice surface roughness using angular reflectance data from the Multi-angle Imaging SpectroRadiometer (MISR) and lidar-derived roughness measurements from the Airborne Topographic Mapper (ATM). Using an empirical data modeling approach, we derived estimates of Arctic sea ice roughness ranging from centimeters to decimeters meters within the MISR 275-m pixel size. Using independent ATM data for validation, we find that histograms of lidar and multi-angular roughness values are nearly identical for areas with roughness <20 cm but that for rougher regions, the MISR-derived roughness has a narrower range of values than the ATM data. The algorithm is able to accurately identify areas that transition between smooth and rough ice. Because of its coarser spatial scale, MISR-derived roughness data have a variance of about half that ATM roughness data.
Ethnomedicinal, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Investigations of Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt
Authors: Ahmed Hiwa M.
Published: October 2018

Perilla frutescens (L.) Britt. (PF) is an annual herbal medicinal, aromatic, functional food and ornamental plant that belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. The origin of perilla traces back to East Asian countries (China, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Vietnam and India), where it has been used as a valuable source of culinary and traditional medicinal uses. Leaves, seeds and stems of P. frutescens are used for various therapeutic applications in folk medicine. In the absence of comprehensive review regarding all aspects of perilla, thus this review aims to present an overview pertaining to the botanical drug, ethnobotany, phytochemistry and biological activity. It was found that the taxonomic classification of perilla species is quite confused, and the number of species is vague. Perilla has traditionally been prescribed to treat depression-related disease, anxiety, asthma, chest stuffiness, vomiting, cough, cold, flus, phlegm, tumour, allergy, intoxication, fever, headache, stuffy nose, constipation, abdominal pain, indigestion, analgesic, anti-abortive agent, and sedative. Until now, 271 natural molecules have been identified in perilla organs including; polyphenols, flavonoids, essential oils, triterpenes, carotenoids, phytosterols, fatty acids, tocopherols and policosanols. In addition to solvent extracts, these individual compounds (rosmarinic acid, perillaldehyde, luteolin, apigenin, tormentic acid, isoegomaketone) have attracted researchers' interest for pharmacological properties. Its bioactivity showed antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-allergic, antidepressant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, neuroprotection activity. Although the results are promising in preclinical studies (in vitro and in vivo) as well, clinical studies are insufficient, therefore further study needs to be done to validate its therapeutic effects and to ensure its safety and efficacy.
Application of Non-Destructive Techniques. The Madonna Del Latte Case Study
Authors: Leuzzi Maria Celeste , Crippa Mila , Costa Giorgio Andrea
Published: October 2018

In the frame of a research project involving a private collection of artworks a panel painting representing the Nursing Madonna (Madonna del latte) was studied by means of scientific examination.

The Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry (DCCI) of the University of Genoa carried out non-invasive exams, combining imaging techniques with analytical analyses.

Infrared reflectography (IRR), infrared false colour (IRFC), UV fluorescence (UVF), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and reflectance spectroscopy in the visible range (vis-RS) were used to analyse the painting palette thus obtaining more information on a possible creation date of the painting.

Some of the most interesting results are the identification of a freehand underdrawing and the usage of lead white, cinnabar, Fe-based pigments for yellows and browns and Cu-based pigments for blue and green colours.
The scientific results, as well as historical researches allow the hypothesis that the Madonna del latte was authored in the early 16th century by a Florentine artist, probably a scholar of Baccio della Porta.
Integrated geophysical surveys for the knowledge of a monument of Lecce: the sixteenth-century fortifications
Authors: Leucci Giovanni , Di Giacomo Giacomo , De Giorgi Lara , Ditaranto Immacolata , Miccoli Ilaria , Scardozzi Giuseppe
Published: October 2018

Within the project for the restoration of the northern section of the sixteenth-century city wall of Lecce, CNR-IBAM carried out geophysical surveys aimed at the study and the reconstruction of the fortifications system. In particular, the investigations focused on a wide band of land outside the two bastions at the northern far end of the fortifications. The integrated use of GPR and ERT systems has allowed to detect anomalies related to the main ditch outside the city wall and to characterize the rocky bench in which it was excavated; at the time of the surveys, this ditch was still buried and the results of the measurements have guided its excavations. Moreover, the investigations have allowed to identify also other possible ditches or quarries and more ancient structures, which subsequent archaeological excavations have dated at the Roman period. Moreover, geophysical surveys highlighted the presence of modern walls, corresponding with the foundations of the stadium constructed in the first half of the 1900s close to the fortifications. So, geophysical investigations were very important since they allowed not only to direct the archaeological excavations, but also because they allowed to formulate some hypotheses on the ancient topography of the not excavated area.
Nontraumatic Compartment Syndrome in a Patient with Protein S Deficiency
Authors: Pentz Kyle , Triplet Jacob J. , Johnson David B. , Umbel Benjamin , Baker Thomas E.
Published: October 2018

Case:

Protein S deficiency, a hypercoagulable thrombophilia, often results in venous thromboembolism. Nontraumatic compartment syndrome in a patient with protein S deficiency has not been well publicized. Herein, we present a rare case of nontraumatic compartment syndrome of the hand and the thigh in a 48-year-old woman with a known history of protein S deficiency; emergency fasciotomies were needed.

Conclusion:

Based on our patient and a review of the current literature, we advocate for a heightened awareness of compartment syndrome in patients with protein S deficiency.
Biologics for Rotator Cuff Repair
Authors: Smith Kevin M. , Le Adrian D.K. , Costouros John G. , Dragoo Jason L.
Published: October 2018

* The complexity of tendon to bone healing in a rotator cuff surgical procedure has led to the investigation of biologic augmentation such as platelet-rich plasma, stem cells, and biomaterials to enhance the healing environment and to decrease the prevalence of failure.

* Among the many types of biologic augmentation, there is considerable heterogeneity of the content, quality, and quantity of growth factors used in platelet-rich plasma and bone marrow aspirate concentrate, and conclusions from individual studies may not necessarily be generalizable to other formulations within the group.

* Current Level-I evidence suggests that universal use of platelet-rich plasma provides no significant clinical benefit in rotator cuff repair.

* Although some evidence exists for the use of stem cells from bone marrow aspirate concentrate and the use of biologic grafts, results from Level-I studies are lacking.

* Level-I trials focused on the evaluation of clinical outcomes (i.e., American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons [ASES] score, University of California at Los Angeles [UCLA] shoulder score, Constant score, Simple Shoulder Test) should be performed to help to determine the appropriate use of biologic augmentation in rotator cuff surgical procedures.
El poblamiento rural en el arroyo de Guadatín:un modelo de ocupación del territorio durante el Bronce Final y el período Orientalizante en el Valle Medio del Guadalquivir
Authors: MURILLO REDONDO Juan F. , MORENA LÓPEZ José A.
Published: October 2018

Este trabajo ofrece un modelo de ocupación del territorio en el Valle Medio del Guadalquivir a partir del análisis de medio centenar de pequeños asentamientos rurales encuadrables en los momentos finales de la Edad del Bronce y en el Orientalizante. Se abordan las estrechas relaciones entre el medio físico y las estrategias de explotación agrícola, así como los mecanismos de distribución de productos manufacturados, especialmente cerámicas, en el medio rural.
Resultados sucintos de la excavación arqueológica de urgencia en los solares de la calle Blanco Belmonte Nº 4-6 y Ricardo de Montis 1-8, Córdoba. El trazado del cardo máximo de la colonia patricia Corduba
Authors: VENTURA VlLLANUEVA Ángel , CARMONA BERENGUER Silvia
Published: October 2018

Este artículo expone los resultados estratigráficos de la excavación realizazada en el solar de referencia, intramuros de Corduba-Colonia Patricia. Analizamos los hallazgos efectuados, principalmente restos de la cloaca maxima y de una casa urbana que evoluciona a lo largo de la época romana y califal. En base a éstos y otros datos proponemos el trazado del cardo maximus de la colonia.
Técnicas constructivas en las villas romanas de Andalucía
Authors: CARRILLO DÍAZ-PINÉS José Ramón
Published: October 2018

En este trabajo analizamos las técnicas constructivas de las villas romanas excavadas en Andalucía, aspecto que nunca ha sido estudiado en profundidad pese a su impootancia dado que las villas son, entre otras muchas cosas, conjuntos arquitectónicos. Se estudian aquí los aparejos de los muros, los pavimentos y otros elementos desarrollando una clasificación tipológica de los mismos. Como conclusión más importante, además de demostrar la gran variedad de técnicas empleadas, destacaremos cómo en las villas romanas de Andalucía el empleo de la piedra en todas sus variantes, es totalmente mayoritario en nuestra opinión, por los condicionantes geológicos.
X KUŞAĞI AKADEMİSYENLER İLE Y KUŞAĞI ÖĞRENCİLERİN BİRBİRLERİNE KARŞI ALGILARI
Authors: MÜCEVHER Muhammet Hamdi , ERDEM Ramazan
Published: October 2018

X ve Y kuşağının
birbirlerine karşı algılarının ve bakış açılarının ortaya çıkarılması, bu
çalışmanın amacını oluşturmaktır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda; bir taraftan X Kuşağı akademisyenlerin,
Y Kuşağı öğrenci özellikleri ile ilgili ne tür algılara sahip oldukları incelenirken
diğer taraftan Y Kuşağı öğrencilerin, derslerine giren X Kuşağı
akademisyenlerin etkileşim özellikleri hakkında nasıl bir algı ve görüşe sahip
oldukları incelenerek bir karşılaştırma yapılmıştır. Bunun için veri
toplama aracı olarak; X Kuşağına uygulanan araştırmada, Smith ve Smith
(2005)’in “Öğretmenlerin Y Kuşağı Öğrenci Özellikleri Algıları Ölçeği” Isparta
Süleyman Demirel Üniversitesi İktisadi ve İdari Bilimler Fakültesinde görevli
68 akademisyene uygulanırken Y Kuşağı üzerine yapılan araştırmada ise Wubbels
ve Levy (1993)’nin “Öğretmen Etkileşim Ölçeği” aynı fakültedeki 6.766 öğrenciye
uygulanmıştır. Araştırmanın sonuçlarına göre; X Kuşağı, Y Kuşağını hem genel özellikler
hem de öğrenme yetkinlikleri bakımından yetersiz görürken iş ve iletişim yetkinlikleri
açısından olumlu ya da olumsuz bir eğilim belirtmemektedirler. Buna karşılık Y
Kuşağı, X Kuşağını etkileşim özellikleri açısından yeterli görmekte, onları bir
yandan lider, yardımsever (cana yakın), anlayışlı, kararlı, memnun ve uyarıcı
olmayan bireyler olarak görürken diğer yandan sert ve özgürlükçü olmayan
kişiler olarak değerlendirmektedir.
Hand Planter for the Developing World: Factor Testing and Refinement
Authors: Dhillon Jagmandeep S. , Omara P. , Nambi E. , Eickhoff E. , Oyebiyi F. , Wehmeyer G. , Fornah A. , Ascencio E. N. , Figueiredo B. M. , Lemings R. , Lynch T. , Ringer J. , Kiner W. , Taylor R. K. , Raun W. R.
Published: October 2018

Core Ideas

Developing world maize producers desperately need better planting methods.

OSU hand planter delivers safety, convenience, and increased maize yields for producers managing highly marginal landscapes.

Same area of maize planted in the USA (30 million ha) is planted in the developing world on highly marginal slopes.

Maize (Zea mays L.) production in the developing world takes place on marginal landscapes using indigenous planting methods that conflict with modern hybrids, and the chemically treated seeds being used. In 1987, a mechanical planter was imagined that could replace indigenous planting methods used in many developing countries where maize is produced on marginal landscapes. Over two decades, controlled variables were evaluated with the aim of delivering an improved planter capable of singulating maize seed with each planter strike, and that would ensure uniform plant stands. This hand planter, presently termed GreenSeeder was further designed to deliver mid‐season fertilizer N via the use of an alternative internal drum. To secure singulation for each planter strike, many seed sizes, planter weights, brush strengths, drum cavity sizes, and operators were evaluated. Results showed that when seed size was large (<3000 seeds kg−1) and the 260‐20 internal drum was employed, the ability to singulate with no misses was high. When the 450S internal drum was used, seed sizes that were smaller (>3500 seeds kg−1) had higher singulation and lower misses. An efficiency index encumbering these parameters was developed that was highly correlated with final grain yield. In‐country design and manufacturing should account for ranges in seed size that work with the present design, drum cavity depth, and angle. Because this planter can easily accommodate mid‐season fertilizer N application, adoption of this device should deliver increased grain yields and fertilizer N use efficiency.
Coefficient of Variation from Vegetation Index for Sugarcane Population and Stalk Evaluation
Authors: Chanda Saoli , Kanke Yumiko , Dalen Marilyn , Hoy Jeffrey , Tubana Brenda
Published: October 2018

Core Ideas

Variety and planting material affect cane population and millable stalk production.

Coefficient of variation from sensor readings decreases as cane canopy closes.

Cane varieties for sugar and energy production differ greatly in canopy structure.

Canopy structure influences sensor‐based profiling of cane population and stalk.

Coefficient of variation (CV) is a statistical measure of variability in data. This study was conducted to evaluate the relationship of CV computed from Vegetation Indices (VIs) with plant population and millable stalk of different sugarcane (Saccharrum spp.) varieties. Two experiments consisted of six cane varieties and two types of planting material (whole stalks vs. billets) with four replications arranged in a split plot in randomized block design were established in St. Gabriel, LA, in 2012 and 2013. Sensor readings were concurrently collected with plant population at 4 and 8 weeks after planting (WAP) and tiller count at early and late tillering stage. Variety had a more evident, consistent effect than planting material on population count, tiller number, and millable stalk (p < 0.001). The regression analysis revealed: (i) a positive linear relationship between NDVI660 and CV660 with coefficient of determination (r2) of 0.49*** at 4 WAP, then changed to negative linear at 8 WAP and early tillering stage with r2 values of 0.52*** and 0.75***, respectively; and (ii) CVs and VIs from the red‐edge band had consistently negative linear relationships (p < 0.001), the strongest being at the early tillering stage (r2 = 0.61–0.73). The linear relationship of CV with plant population and millable stalk improved when variety was included as categorical variable. Future research should focus to categorize varieties into broader group based on canopy structure to develop more refined CV‐based model for fast profiling of cane plant stand population, tiller production, and millable stalk.
Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Brenes Juan Carlos , Doltra Adelina , Prat Susanna
Published: October 2018

[first paragraph of article]Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) is a useful technique in the evaluation of patients with suspected or diagnosed hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), and has an added value over other imaging modalities.
Alcohol septal ablation in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Mateo Juan José Santos , Gimeno Juan R
Published: October 2018

Alcohol septal ablation (ASA) has become an alternative to surgical myectomy in obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy since it was first introduced in 1994 by Sigwart. The procedure alleviates symptoms by producing a limited infarction of the upper interventricular septum, resulting in a decrease in left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradient. The technique has been improved over time and the results are comparable with those of myectomy. Initial concerns about long-term outcomes have been largely resolved. In this review, we discuss indications, technical aspects, clinical results and patient selection to ASA.
Implantable cardioverter–defibrillator in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sanchez Diego Jimenez , Lozano Ignacio Fernández
Published: October 2018

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the most devastating complication in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The implantable cardioverter–defibrillator (ICD) has proven to be effective in SCD prevention in several clinical scenarios. In HCM population, it has demonstrated to successfully abort life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias despite the extreme morphology characteristic of HCM, often with massive degrees of left ventricular hypertrophy and/or LV outflow tract obstruction. Studies showed a high rate of appropriate intervention in secondary prevention and in primary prevention of patients considered at high risk. This appropriate intervention rate is even more significant considering the young and otherwise healthy patients that compose HCM population. Since SCD incidence in HCM is relatively low, optimal identification of patients at high risk is crucial. Classical strategy of risk stratification based on clinical risk factors has several limitations and has proven to overestimate risk. A new risk prediction model that provides individual 5-year estimated risk appears to be superior to traditional models based on bivariate risk factors. Perioperative complications seem to be similar to those related to the implant of other cardiac devices, while long-term complications have been traditionally in the spotlight. HCM patients are considered more vulnerable to ICD-related complications and inappropriate ICD therapy because of their young age at implant and increased prevalence of atrial fibrillation, but long-term follow-up data on ICD-related complications in general practice is limited. The subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator seems to be a safe and effective alternative in HCM, although long-term data are scarce.
Rapid-Acting Antidepressants
Authors: Witkin Jeffrey M. , Knutson Daniel E. , Rodriguez Gabriel J. , Shi Samuel
Published: October 2018

Background:

Conventional antidepressants are thought to produce their impact on clinical symptoms
by increasing the central availability of biogenic amine neurotransmitters (the monoamine hypothesis of depression).
These drugs continue to be the primary medicines used in major depressive disorder. Although they have
biological effects after acute dosing, full antidepressant response generally takes weeks of daily administration.
Lack of rapid onset is a large limitation in antidepressant therapy (e.g., suicide, lack of medication compliance,
difficulty switching medications).

Methods:

The present review of the literature discusses the preclinical and clinical findings on compounds that
can produce immediate symptom relief.

Results:

These compounds include ketamine, scopolamine, and mechanistically-related drugs. Newer additions to
the list of potential rapid-acting agents include antagonists of metabotropic (mGlu) 2/3 receptors, negative allosteric
modulators of α5-containing GABAA receptors, and psychedelic compounds. An additional benefit of these
compounds is that they have demonstrated large effect sizes and, importantly, demonstrated efficacy in patient’s
refractory to other treatments. A drawback of some of these compounds, to date, is finding ways to expand the
duration of clinical efficacy. In addition, for some compounds, the side-effect profile requires management. A
primary mechanism by which rapid effects might be produced is through the amplification of excitatory neurotransmission
through activation of AMPA receptors. The extracellular efflux of glutamate induced by these drugs
has been documented and provides the hypothesized triggering mechanism for AMPA receptor amplification.

Conclusion:

The preclinical and clinical literature strongly suggests that rapid-acting antidepressants are the
current focus of antidepressant drug discovery. Promising clinical findings exist for several compounds including
ketamine and other NMDA receptor antagonists, scopolamine, and psilocybin. Two compounds are in late stage
clinical development: GLYX-13 (Rapastinel) and eskekamine.
Enterobacter Hormaechei: New Neonatal Infection in Morocco
Authors: Dyabi F.Z. , Bennaoui F. , Slitine N. El Idrissi , Soraa N. , Maoulainine F.M.R
Published: October 2018

Introduction:

Enterobacteria are gram-negative bacilli, found in soil, water, and especially in humans and animals gut. They include a very large number of genera and species, often involved in human clinical specimens, predominately E. cloacae and E. aerogenes. Enterobacter hormaechei was suggested in 1989 as a new member of enterobacter family, during the last twenty years they were responsible for nosocomial infection in hospitalized adult patients, some information is available on their virulence-associated properties. They are very rare in the newborn.

Case Reports:

We report five cases of E. hormaechei's infection; first case in our department: neonatal ICU, at Mohamed VI University Hospital, Marrakesh, Morocco. Five newborns were aged between eight hours and ten days, two of them were from multiple pregnancies, and gestational age was less than 36 weeks in three cases. Clinical presentation was variable and respiratory distress was found in four patients as the most frequent sign. Multidrug-resistant E. hormaechei was isolated from the blood culture in all cases. One newborn showed on his second day of life a cutaneous necrosis, the necrosis's swab culture isolated also an E. hormaechei. Patients were treated by the combination of Tienam and Amikacine. The progress was favorable in two patients. However, three of our patients died.

Results:

We found that E. hormaechei can be responsible for nosocomial infection in vulnerable patients. It can be transferred between patients when hygiene measures are not respected.
Association Between STAT4 rs7574865 Polymorphism and Rheumatoid Arthritis: Debate Unresolved
Authors: Tarakji Iman , Habbal Wafa , Monem Fawza
Published: October 2018

Background:

STAT4 rs7574865 polymorphism has been evidently associated with susceptibility to Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) in European and Eastern Asian populations, whereas studies in other countries reported otherwise.

Objective:

We investigated the distribution of STAT4 rs7574865 polymorphism in a group of Syrian RA patients.

Methods:

Eighty-one RA patients and forty healthy controls were enrolled and STAT4 rs7574865 was genotyped by direct sequencing. RA patients were stratified according to Anti-Citrullinated Protein Antibodies (ACPA) status for analysis.

Results:

Minor T allele frequencies were 30.4%, 16.7%, and 23.8% in ACPA-positive RA patients, ACPA-negative RA patients, and healthy controls, respectively. No significant differences in STAT4 rs7574865 allele/genotype frequencies were found between ACPA-positive RA patients, ACPA-negative RA patients, and healthy controls (P>0.05).

Conclusion:

STAT4 rs7574865 TT genotype showed a potential impact on ACPA positivity in Syrian RA patients. However, STAT4 rs7574865 effect on RA onset and severity is minor compared to other genetic factors such as HLA-DRB1 shared epitope alleles.