bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting Coronal Mass Ejections Using SDO/HMI Vector Magnetic Data Products and Recurrent Neural Networks
Authors: Liu Hao , Liu Chang , Wang Jason T. L. , Wang Haimin
Published: February 2020

We present two recurrent neural networks (RNNs), one based on gated recurrent units and the other based on long short-term memory, for predicting whether an active region (AR) that produces an M- or X-class flare will also produce a coronal mass ejection (CME). We model data samples in an AR as time series and use the RNNs to capture temporal information on the data samples. Each data sample has 18 physical parameters, or features, derived from photospheric vector magnetic field data taken by the Helioseismic and Magnetic Imager on board the Solar Dynamics Observatory. We survey M- and X-class flares that occurred from 2010 to 2019 May using the Geostationary Operational Environmental Satellite's X-ray flare catalogs provided by the National Centers for Environmental Information (NCEI), and select those flares with identified ARs in the NCEI catalogs. In addition, we extract the associations of flares and CMEs from the Space Weather Database of Notifications, Knowledge, Information. We use the information gathered above to build the labels (positive versus negative) of the data samples at hand. Experimental results demonstrate the superiority of our RNNs over closely related machine learning methods in predicting the labels of the data samples. We also discuss an extension of our approach to predict a probabilistic estimate of how likely an M- or X-class flare is to initiate a CME, with good performance results. To our knowledge this is the first time that RNNs have been used for CME prediction.
Limits on Mode Coherence in Pulsating DA White Dwarfs Due to a Nonstatic Convection Zone
Authors: Montgomery M. H. , Hermes J. J. , Winget D. E. , Dunlap B. H. , Bell K. J.
Published: February 2020

The standard theory of pulsations deals with the frequencies and growth rates of infinitesimal perturbations in a stellar model. Modes that are calculated to be linearly driven should increase their amplitudes exponentially with time; the fact that nearly constant amplitudes are usually observed is evidence that nonlinear mechanisms inhibit the growth of finite-amplitude pulsations. Models predict that the mass of convection zones in pulsating hydrogen-atmosphere (DAV) white dwarfs is very sensitive to temperature (i.e.,

), leading to the possibility that even low-amplitude pulsators may experience significant nonlinear effects. In particular, the outer turning point of finite-amplitude g-mode pulsations can vary with the local surface temperature, producing a reflected wave that is out of phase with what is required for a standing wave. This can lead to a lack of coherence of the mode and a reduction in its global amplitude. In this paper we show that (1) whether a mode is calculated to propagate to the base of the convection zone is an accurate predictor of its width in the Fourier spectrum, (2) the phase shifts produced by reflection from the outer turning point are large enough to produce significant damping, and (3) amplitudes and periods are predicted to increase from the blue edge to the middle of the instability strip, and subsequently decrease as the red edge is approached. This amplitude decrease is in agreement with the observational data while the period decrease has not yet been systematically studied.
Rapid isolation of non-aflatoxigenicAspergillus flavus strains
Authors: Zhang W. , Chang X. , Wu Z. , Dou J. , Yin Y. , Sun C. , Wu W.
Published: February 2020

In the present study, a method for screening non-aflatoxigenicAspergillus flavus in soil samples collected from major peanut-growing regions of China was developed. The single colonies were picked and cultured onAspergillus flavus andparasiticus agar (AFPA). If the reverse side of the colony on AFPA was orange-coloured, it was consideredA. flavus orAspergillus parasiticus. After the genomic DNA of each strain was extracted, 28S rRNA and calmodulin were amplified and sequenced to determine the species. The key gene,aflR, was amplified and digested via polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism. The aflatoxigenicA. flavus and the non-aflatoxigenicA. flavus andA. parasiticus were distinguished by enzyme digestion ofaflR. 156 strains ofA. flavus were screened, which consisted of 135 aflatoxigenic and 21 non-aflatoxigenic strains. The aflatoxin producing ability of each strain was confirmed using solid-state fermentation experiments. Using the method developed in the present study, we confirmed that the non-aflatoxigenicA. flavus strains isolated lost their capacity to produce aflatoxins. Considering there could be some alterations in other functional genes, some non-aflatoxigenic strains could be identified inaccurately as aflatoxigenic strains, although that did not occur in the present study. The growth of non-aflatoxigenicA. flavus was observed, and the most rapidly growing non-aflatoxigenic strain was selected for plate confrontation assays and toxic mixed culture experiments. The inhibition rate of non-aflatoxigenicA. flavus against aflatoxigenicA. flavus was 55.4 and 72.6% in potato dextrose agar (PDA) plate and natural soybean medium, respectively. The screened non-aflatoxigenicA. flavus strains provide a microbial resource for biological control of aflatoxin contamination.
Does Pregnancy Affect Refractive and Corneal Stability or Corneal Epithelial Remodeling After Myopic LASIK?
Authors: Kanellopoulos Anastasios John , Vingopoulos Filippos
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE:

To investigate possible refractive changes in pregnant women who have previously undergone myopic laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).

METHODS:

This prospective study included 64 pregnant women (128 eyes) who had previously undergone bilateral myopic LASIK. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), spherical equivalent, corneal keratometry, topography and tomography, and epithelial mapping were evaluated before LASIK, 12 months after LASIK, during the third trimester of pregnancy, and 1 year postpartum.

RESULTS:

The average age at the time of recruitment was 32.5 ± 5 years (range: 24.5 to 39.5 years). The evaluation during pregnancy was at an average 55 months (range: 12 to 108 months) from the initial LASIK procedure. The preoperative mean refractive error was −6.72 ± 2.96 diopters (D) (range: −1.00 to −11.00 D). Comparing 12-month refractive data after the original LASIK procedure to the those within the third trimester of the subsequent pregnancy, the average UDVA was 20/18, the residual refractive error was −0.63 ± 1.00 to −0.51 ± 0.82 D, the steepest keratometry value was 40.85 ± 1.89 to 40.88 ± 2.84 D, and the central epithelial thickness was 56.4 ± 3.89 to 57.38 ± 5.04 µm, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study, pregnancy did not affect the refractive stability of LASIK. Pregnancy-related changes in refractive error, corneal stability, and total corneal and epithelial thickness in women after LASIK were not found to be statistically significant.

[
J Refract Surg
. 2022;36(2):118–122.]
Developing Cyber Buffer Zones
Authors: Robinson Michael , Jones Kevin , Janicke Helge , Maglaras Leandros
Published: February 2020

Cyber peacekeeping is a new and novel field of research that focuses on the ways that nations and society can restore peace and security in the aftermath of cyber warfare. In this article, the authors make an original contribution to the field by developing the concept of cyber buffer zones. They aim to answer two specific questions: Can the concept of a buffer zone be translated into a cyber context, and if so, would a cyber buffer zone be feasible to perform and provide some kind of peace promoting effect? The authors find that the concept can be translated well and propose a practical approach towards creating a cyber buffer zone that is both feasible and valuable to perform.
Optimal Parameter Prediction for Secure Quantum Key Distribution Using Quantum Machine Learning Models
Authors: Sathish Babu B.  , Bhargavi K. , Subramanya K. N.
Published: February 2020

The advent of quantum computing is bringing threats to successful operations of classical cryptographic techniques. To conduct quantum key distribution (QKD) in a finite time interval, there is a need to estimate photon states and analyze the fluctuations statistically. The use of brute force and local search methods for parameter optimization are computationally intensive and becomes an infeasible solution even for smaller connections. Therefore, the use of quantum machine learning models with self-learning ability is useful in predicting the optimal parameters for quantum key distribution. This chapter discusses some of the quantum machine learning models with their architecture, advantages, and disadvantages. The performance of quantum convoluted neural network (QCNN) and Quantum Particle Swarm Optimization (QPSO) towards QKD is found to be good compared to all the other quantum machine learning models discussed.
The Use of Metadiscourse Markers in Dissertations Produced by MATESOL Students
Authors: Mohamed Lina
Published: February 2020

The use of metadiscourse markers is an important writing strategy employed both to structure the text and to engage the reader in the text production. In this connection, the purpose of this study is to assess the use of metadiscourse markers in term papers produced by MATESOL students at university of Khartoum. Forty papers were examined using Hyland's model of metadiscourse markers. Twenty papers were chosen from class 2016-2017, and the other 20 were selected from class 2017-2018. The data were analyzed in percentage terms. The results revealed that trained students use more metadiscourse markers than the untrained students. Additionally, it was found that female students used more metadiscourse markers than male. Also, it was found that all participants used more metadiscourse markers in the background section than in the statement of the problem section.
Bringing the Human Dimension to Virtual Experience
Authors: Heller Christina
Published: February 2020

Immersive media can be achieved through many types of production techniques, each designed to achieve a specific purpose. This chapter describes Metastage, a volumetric capture studio aligned with Microsoft, that is being used by a wide range of creators to produce their groundbreaking immersive works. The common element in these works is the desire to bring realistic human representation to the productions. In addition to interviews with select practitioners, this chapter also describes techniques and best practices for high end volumetric capture.
Managerial Challenges in VR and AR in Asia
Authors: Panchapakesan Padma
Published: February 2020

Virtual reality and augmented reality technologies have been widely adopted in tourism and hospitality, retail, communication, social media, and other fields. They have become effective tools to deliver consumer experiences and also are cost-effective. Though the adoption of these technologies has received support from customers, there are over-arching issues which have to be addressed for these technologies to diffuse into everyday lives. This chapter discusses how virtual and augmented realities are applied in various industries and the resulting immediate challenges which are needed to be addressed by the managers for a successful adoption.
How Digital Realities Will Change Professional Reality
Authors: Melro Ricardo
Published: February 2020

Augmented and virtual realities as digital realities will allow: working at a distance; physically handicapped people having professions never thought of before; c-level management managing sites around the world from the office; and saving paper and trees. People will be able to work as in Real Time Multiplayer games. This chapter also refers the importance of IoT to support these technologies based on optical fiber or 5G; the possibility to be used from blue collars with smartphones up to c-level with powerful hardware. The author exposes differences between augmented and virtual realities in professional context, the possibility to use mixed reality with both technologies, and advantages and problems. Examples are given from manufacturing and maintenance industries and for retail business; to make mock-ups and test, to practice activities, to operate and feel real assets and to help on the sale of products.
Design Process of Three-Dimensional Multi-User Virtual Environments (3D MUVEs) for Teaching Tree Species
Authors: Mercan Gamze , Doğan Dilek , Köseoğlu Pınar , Tüzün Hakan
Published: February 2020

This study aims to realize the concept of biodiversity, which is one of the subjects covered by environmental education, with 3D virtual worlds platform and to realize the biological richness of users in their environment and to provide awareness of the species they see in their immediate surroundings. It is aimed to design 3D MUVE to teach tree species to pre-service teachers within framework of Instructional design process in 3D MUVEs based on problem-based learning approach. Four different design groups are third year undergraduate students (N=21) from the Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technology in the Faculty of Education at a large state university. For design process, participants with collaborative work designed 3D environments with a problem-based learning approach. The design process of 3D MUVEs was realized with the participation of researchers as trainers, guides, technical support personnel, and observers during the 16 weeks within the scope of the course. Also, participants were involved in the role of both learner and instructional designer.
Material Use in Social Studies Education
Authors: Karadeniz Oğuzhan , Er Harun
Published: February 2020

This study aims to reveal the significance of cultural fairs as a material in the social studies course based on the importance of culture, cultural heritage, and cultural transmission. Culture is a crucial source of prosperity and identity of the nations. Nations maintain their presence through their cultural heritage and transfer these values to the next generations through cultural transmission. So, while the continuity of the culture is ensured, the cultural heritage is preserved. One of the ways to achieve this process is education. Within the education system, social studies course is an interdisciplinary course in which culture is handled with different dimensions. Cultural fairs conducted within the scope of this course are also a set of training in which various aspects of culture and cultural components are handled. In this context, the significance of the practice of cultural fairs as a material in the social studies course and its contributions to the field of education are examined in this study.
Impact of Microfinance on Multi-dimensions of the Women Empowerment: A Case Study of Southern Sri Lanka
Authors: Chandradasa A. J. M.
Published: February 2020

This paper examines the impact of microfinance programmes on women empowerment of borrowing households of Southern Province in Sri Lanka. The women empowerment is one of major target variables in Microfinance programmes which are intended to benefit low-income people and better way to achieve Millennium Development Goals including reducing poverty, supporting gender equity. The study is based on the sample survey of 405 microfinance recipients of four national level leading institutions: Thrift and Credit Cooperative Societies, Samurdhi Banking Societies, Ruhuna Development Bank and Sarvodaya Economic Enterprise Development Societies for 2017.For analysing purpose, a comparison group has been selected from the existing recipients whom membership duration with is no longer than one year to compare their empowerment capabilities with that of existing members whom membership duration with microfinance programmes is longer than one year. Three dimensions of women empowerment: economic, socio-political and well-being of the household are used for assessing the impact. Based on data analysis, the study found that outreach of microfinance towards women is remarkably higher and it has benefited to increase the number of women ownership-business in the Province. However, these women controlled enterprises are not growing but stable and evolving with the challenge of sustainability. Integrating these findings, in regional context of Sothern Sri Lanka, it can be concluded that although the microfinance has benefited the borrowing women to enhance the well-being of their households, other two dimensions of women empowerment: economic and socio - political have not been reach as it was expected.
Procesi funkcijske preobrazbe v starih mestnih središčih
Authors: Rebernik Dejan
Published: February 2020

V prispevku je predstavljeno proučevanje funkcijske preobrazbe starih mestnih središč na primeru Kranja, Kamnika in Škofje Loke. Raziskava temelji na analizi sprememb v rabi tal med različnimi izbranimi časovnimi obdobji. Rabo tal smo ugotavljali s pomočjo terenskega kartiranja in na osnovi različnih virov ter literature. S pomočjo anketiranja lastnikov in najemnikov poslovnih prostorov smo proučevali vrednotenje pogojev za poslovanje v starih mestnih središčih. Na ta način so bili identificirani različni procesi funkcijske preobrazbe.
Utilization of Modern Technologies for Service Delivery in Special Libraries in South-East Nigeria
Authors: Ekere Justina Ngozi , Ewulum Ozioma Ebele , Eze Monica Eberechukwu , Okpala Helen Nneka , Ebobo Maxwell
Published: February 2020

Modern technologies are part of the tools that can help to provide efficient and effective service delivery in libraries. For librarians to perform their jobs effectively, they have to fully utilize modern technologies. The aim of the study therefore, is to examine the utilization of modern technologies for effective service delivery in selected special libraries in South-East, Nigeria. Specifically, two objectives and two research questions guided the study .The study adopted descriptive survey design. Responses to a structured questionnaire developed by the researchers were received from 30 librarians. The questionnaire was entitled,’ Utilization of Modern Technology for Effective Service Delivery Questionnaire(UMTSLCQ). It was validated by experts and its reliability index was calculated as 2.50 using frequency table. The data collected were presented in a tabular form for clarity, analyzed using frequency count and tables. The findings of the study showed that modern technologies are not being utilized adequately in service delivery in most special libraries in the south east, although they complement many of the services provided by the special libraries. Recommendations were made based on the findings which includes proper sensitization of librarians on appropriate use of modern technologies, adequate funding, consistent and constant training of staff to upgrade their skill on the use of modern technologies. The study concluded by making recommendation based on the findings.Keywords: Modern technology, Utilization, Service delivery, Special Libraries, South-East Nigeria
Modification of Rust Layer on Carbon Steel with Reactive Actions of Metallic Cations for Improved Corrosion Protectiveness
Authors: Kim Kyung-Tae , Tsuchiya Hiroaki , Hanaki Koushu , Yamashita Masato , Fujimoto Shinji
Published: February 2020

In the present work, the modification of a rust layer on a carbon steel surface was examined during a cyclic corrosion test. The rust layer grown in a coastal region of Japan was used as a model rust layer. The x-ray diffraction analysis of the model rust layer revealed that the layer consisted of α-FeOOH, β-FeOOH, γ-FeOOH, and Fe3O4. During the cyclic corrosion test, an additional immersion of the surface in solutions containing metal cations such as Mg2+, Al3+, Cu2+, or Ni2+ was performed. The additional immersion in the cation-containing solutions modified the model rust layer, that is, the fraction of stable α-FeOOH increased in the rust layer. Furthermore, the modification of the model rust layer could suppress the corrosion of steel. The decreased corrosion rate was attributed to the suppressed cathodic reduction of the rust layers due to the presence of the stable α-FeOOH in the rust layers.
Management-intensive Grazing Affects Soil Health
Authors: Shawver Casey , Ippolito James A. , Brummer Joe , Ahola Jason , Rhoades Ryan
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Management-intensive Grazing (MiG) on irrigated, perennial pastures has steadily increased in the western US due to pressure for reducing public lands grazing, overall declining land available for pasture, and decreasing commodity prices. However, there are still many unknowns regarding MiG and its environmental impact, especially with regards to soil health. Over a two-year period, we studied changes in soil health under a full-scale, 82 ha pivot-irrigated perennial pasture system grazed with ~ 230 animal units (AUs) using MiG. Soil analysis included 11 soil characteristics aggregated into the Soil Management Assessment Framework (SMAF), which outputs results for soil biological, physical, nutrient, chemical, and overall soil health indices (SHI). Positive impacts were observed in the biological SHI due to increases in microbial and enzymatic activities, even though soil organic C (SOC) remained relatively unchanged; however, positive biological SHI changes are likely precursors to future SOC increases. The nutrient SHI declined due to a reduction in plant-available soil P over time, potentially due to greater plant uptake. A negative impact was also observed in the physical SHI, driven primarily by increasing bulk density due to hoof pressure from cattle grazing. If managed correctly, results suggest that irrigated, MiG systems have the potential for success with regards to supporting grazing while promoting soil health for environmental and economic sustainability.
Russian Gas Companies Strategies in the Asia-Pacific and in the Arctic under Western Sanctions and Selective Government Support
Authors: Sevastianov Sergei , Sokolova Ekaterina
Published: February 2020

The main purpose of this research is to determine whether Russia being under Western economic sanctions could significantly strengthen its presence in the Asia-Pacific with a pipeline gas and LNG supplies. Based on the study of the Russia’s current and planned gas projects in the eastern part of the country and in the Arctic, that are realized under sanctions’ pressure, the authors concluded that most probably by 2030 Moscow can reach this strategic objective. To resist Western sanctions against the Russian energy industry Moscow launched a program of accelerated import substitution, and as a result they have only partially achieved their goals. Considering Russia’s largest gas exporters, they resorted to different strategies to counter sanctions. The state company Gazprom postponed plans for offshore gas exploration in the Arctic and continues to prioritize gas pipeline projects which reinforce its dependence on China. In contrast, with the help from the RF government and foreign investors, the private company Novatek successfully creates a powerful infrastructure for producing LNG in the Arctic and for delivering it to Europe and the Asia-Pacific.
INTEGRATED SELF SYSTEM: A MICROGENETIC APPROACH
Authors: Pąchalska Maria
Published: February 2020

This article is dedicated to my beloved mother, Zofia Kuzak, Honorary Member of the Polish Neuropsychological Society, and my highest moral authority, to honor her 100 th birthday. During the Nazi occu pation, at the age of 23, she was deport ed to Germany and forced into slave labour at a German camp, from which she managed to escape. During this escape she had to sit for three long days high up in a tree, without food and without anything to drink, something made possible by her strong physical condition. After three days, she dared to leave the tree and, in throwing the Nazis pursuing her, she ran away not to the South - to her home in Nowy Sącz, but to the North – to Poznań, where she took refuge in the apartment of other relatives, true Polish patriots. She stayed there for the years 1943–1947, keeping the accounts at the large family grocery store. The experiences from this period influenced the formation of her own self and her identity. Her stories about times of tragedy and her ways of dealing with the darkest moments in her life contributed to the fact that I became interested in the subject of the self and identity. I have prepared two monographs and several articles on this topic. This article presents a new approach to integrated self system, associated not only with the physical organism, but also with the social and cultural world. The foundation of this approach to the self is microgenetic theory, especially its account of consciousness, of the transition from self to image, act and object, the epochal nature of this transition, and its relation to introspection, imagination and agency. The affinities of microgenetic theory to many aspects of the thought process should be evident to readers of this journal, but the theory, which was developed from studies of pathological cases, rests on a wealth of clinical detail. In brief, the micro-temporal transition from archaic to recent formations (distributed systems) in the phyletic history of the forebrain constitutes the absolute mental state, with consciousness the relation of self to image and/or object. The reader will be able also to find here the overlapping of states, the continuity of the core over successive states, and subjective time experience. However, the integrated self system is associated not only with the operation of the biological brain and its complex patterns of neural connections, but also with the activity of the social mind/brain, in terms of bonds created within social groups, as well as the cultural mind/brain creating the world of cultural values, including religious ones. I will sum up with a model of self system changing in time (4D), pulsating according to the states of mind (5D) forming different numbers of “bits” of information, as marked on the x axis, and linked to the duration of memories, marked on the y axis. The self system also depends on gravity (6D), and other hyperspace dimensions hitherto unknown in neuroscience.
The specificities of modern consumer society in the European Union
Authors: Malczyńska-Biały Mira
Published: February 2020

The article aims to analyse the specificities of modern consumer society in the European Union and, therefore, it presents the genesis and the essence of consumer society development in Europe.
It points to the idea of consumer society in terms of economy, politics, sociology, and philosophy. The specificities of the modern consumer society in the European Union are influenced by legislative processes in regard to the economical safety of consumers including safety of goods in terms of information, education, and redress, with special regard to cross-border transactions. The article presents the definition of consumer ethics and the specifics of certain ethical norms connected with the purchase process, what have evolved together with the development of consumer society in the EU.
Men and women with chronic insomnia disorder and OSAS: Different responses to CPAP
Authors: Loução-de-Amorim Isabel , Bentes Carla , Peralta Ana Rita
Published: February 2020

Objective To evaluate the response to CPAP in patients with chronic insomnia disorder (CID) with OSAS in an unselected patient population including all OSAS severity groups. As a secondary objective, we also wanted to evaluate the differences between patients that improve insomnia symptoms with CPAP and patients that do not improve, specifically evaluating possible gender differences.

Methods Retrospective study of patients with a diagnosis of OSAS treated with CPAP and CID at the first clinical visit, selected from a database of an outpatient sleep clinic of University Hospital.

Results From a database of total of 827 patient, 90 patients were identified with OSAS and CID (53.3% women). Middle / moderate OSAS was diagnosed in 68.9% and severe OSA in 31.1%. Most patients (61.1%) improved insomnia symptoms after CPAP therapy. In the responders group, 58.2% had initial insomnia, 63.6% middle insomnia and 12.7% late insomnia. Responders to CPAP were more frequently women (women 61.8%, men 38.2%, p = 0.035) and there was no other difference between responders and non-responders. On subgroup analysis, this difference was significant only in severe OSAS (women 88.9%, men 31.6%, p = 0.013).

Conclusion In most patients with CID and OSA, there is a consistent reduction of insomnia symptoms with the CPAP use. This factor emphasizes the importance of performing PSG in CID. Insomnia in men with severe OSAS responds less frequently to CPAP suggesting that in these cases the insomnia phenotype is less dependent on the respiratory symptoms.
Associations of Historical Loss, Resilience, and Coping with Loss-related Emotional Symptoms in the Anishinaabe
Authors: Brissette Charlee N. , Whyne Z. Erum , Lehrer H. Matthew , Woo Jihun , Steinhardt Mary A.
Published: February 2020

Objectives: Native Americans have higher rates of mental health symptoms and chronic disease compared to the general population, partly due to historical loss (eg, land, language, culture). Few studies have examined strength-based characteristics that enable Native populations
to cope with loss and reduce loss-related emotional symptoms (eg, anxiety, anger). Methods: We recruited 81 participants (mean age 47.9 years; 61% female) in a midwestern Anishinaabe community using convenience sampling. Participants completed questionnaires assessing historical loss,
loss-related emotional symptoms, psychological resilience, and maladaptive and adaptive coping strategies. Hierarchical regression analyses examined associations of historical loss, psychological resilience, and coping strategies with loss-related emotional symptoms after controlling for demographics.
Results: Historical loss ( β = .56, p < .001) and maladaptive coping strategies ( β = .23, p < .05) were positively associated with loss-related symptoms among Anishinaabe community members; psychological resilience was inversely associated with loss-related symptoms
( β = -.21, p < .05). Adaptive coping strategies ( β = .02, p > .05) were not associated with loss-related symptoms. Conclusions: Findings suggest that historical loss is associated with loss-related emotional symptoms in the Anishinaabe population. Public health programs
that foster psychological resilience and reduce maladaptive coping strategies are needed to address these loss-related symptoms.
Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Teat Structure and Detection of Prominent Annular Folds in Brazilian Dairy Buffaloes
Authors: Bittner Lilli , Ollhoff Rudiger Daniel , Neto José Diomedes Barbosa , Spilke Joachim , Pogliani Fabio Celidonio , Martinez José Lino , Starke Alexander
Published: February 2020

Udder and teat characteristics differ between buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) and cattle (Bos taurus) and the differences are important in relation machine milk ability. Dairy buffalo milk out more slowly and are more difficult to milk than dairy cows, especially when milking machines are used. The goal of this study was to determine the ultrasonographic characteristics of udder and teat morphology in dairy buffaloes in Brazil, a country with a relatively recent history of buffalo farming. External assessment of the udder type and ultrasonography of the teat were done in 63 purebred Murrah and Mediterranian ´ Murrah dairy buffalo cows on three farms with different management systems. Udder types differed among farms; the rear-heavy udder type was most prevalent on two farms and the ball-shaped type occurred frequently on the third farm. Ultrasonographic measurements of the teat were made on one farm and showed correlations between the width of the teat tip and teat canal length, between the width of the teat tip and teat wall thickness and between the width of the teat tip and teat length. During the ultrasonographic examination of the teat, hyperechogenic membrane-like structures in the region of the annular folds, referred to as prominent annular folds (pAFs), were detected in at least one teat in 98 % of all buffaloes. These folds caused narrowing of the lumen between the teat cistern and gland cistern, but their physiological function and relevance concerning machine milk ability remain unclear. Further studies are needed to evaluate the effect of prominent annular folds on milk flow characteristics during mechanical milking in dairy buffaloes.
El reconocimiento del perjuicio ecológico en derecho francés
Authors: Hasnaoui Chahinaze Sarah
Published: February 2020

Se analiza el reconocimiento del perjuicio ecológico en Francia como resultado de un largo proceso deconstrucción jurisprudencial y doctrinal. Para ello se toma como punto de partida el desastre del Erika, un petrolero cargado de 31 000 toneladas de fuel que se partió en las aguas bretonas, causando una marea negra que alcanzó más de 400 kilómetros de costafrancesa. Se estudian las distintas decisiones de los tribunales implicados en el juicio de esta catástrofe y las distinciones que se establecen entre perjuicios subjetivos (intereses patrimoniales y extrapatrimoniales de las personas) y objetivos (daños al ambiente natural).

The recognitionof the ecologic damage in France is analysed as a result longprocessof jurisprudential and doctrinal construction. For that, the Erika disasteris taken as a starting point, an oil tanker loaded with 31,000 tons of fuel which broke offin Breton waters, causing an oil slick which affected more than 400 kilometres of French coast.The different court’sdecision involved in the trial of this catastrophe, as well as the difference established between subjective damages (patrimonial and extra patrimonialinterest of the people) and objective damage (environmental damage)have been studied.
El discurso normativo de la RAE en Twitter
Authors: Rizzo María Florencia
Published: February 2020

El trabajo analiza, desde el enfoque glotopolítico, la sección de consultas lingüísticas que brinda la RAE en Twitter como un nuevo dispositivo de normatividad, resultado tanto de requerimientos específicos que impone esta plataforma de comunicación como de decisiones glotopolíticas al servicio del proyecto panhispánico. Inicialmente, se presentará el marco donde se inscribe esta acción de intervención de la RAE, la política lingüística panhispánica, consignando las principales investigaciones críticas sobre el tema; luego se describirán las características de los materiales que son objeto de estudio; a continuación, se analizarán en una selección de tuits los rasgos enunciativos del locutor y del destinatario, así como del discurso normativo que aquel produce; finalmente, se examinarán algunos criterios normativos adoptados por la institución en interacciones con usuarios.

The work analyzes, from the glottopolitical approach, the section of linguistic consultations provided by the RAE on Twitter as a new device of normativity, resulting both from specific requirements imposed by this communication platform and from glottopolitical decisions at the service of the pan-Hispanic project. At first, it will be present the framework where this action of intervention of the RAE is inscribed, the pan-Hispanic language policy, recording the main critical research on the subject; then it will describe the characteristics of the materials that are the object of study; also it will analyze the declarative features of the speaker and the recipient in a selection of tweets, as well as the normative discourse that the institution produces; finally, some normative criteria adopted by the institution in interactions with users will be examined.
Presentación
Authors: Manero Richard Elvira , Provencio Garrigós Herminia
Published: February 2020

Este artículo es la presentación del monográfico.

This paper is monogragh's presentation
Ozone mechanism of action on herniated disc: clinical and instrumental data abstract]
Authors: Apuzzo Dario
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE: Recently, O2O3 has been successfully used in the treatment of Low Back Pain, reducing pain after the failure of other conservative treatments. Majority of LBP patients are affected by disc herniation (DH). O2O3 can stop pain caused by the Intervertebral Disc Degeneration (IDD), associated or not to extrusions of nucleus pulpous, causing inflammatory changes.
Our primary purpose is to understand how ozone affects IDD.

MATERIAL AND METHODS: Bilateral intramuscular O2O3 infiltrations, injected on the disk lesion with a paravertebral approach. An O2O3 mixture at a rate of 20 mcgr/mL was obtained by means of an ozone generator.

RESULTS: A good reduction of pain and a significant improvement of life quality was obtained in patients with IDD treated with intramuscular infiltrations of O2O3.
O2O3 therapy restricts production of pro-inflammatory substances from hernia, which are responsible for the painful symptoms and functional impairments.

DISCUSSION: Contrary to popular knowledge, painful symptoms improvements are as a result of loss of bio-humoral inflammation factors and not the reduction of mechanical nerve pressure.

CONCLUSION: The action of O2O3 is performed in a developed fibrous tissue in the disc herniation. This would prevent the production of pro inflammatory substances by the hernia itself, thus explaining the disappearance of the painful symptoms in the absence of volumetric
reduction of the hernia. It is also shown by the persistence of the mechanical pressure on the nerve notwithstanding the disappearance of the inflammation and pain symptoms.
Water and air ozone treatment as an alternative sanitizing technology [abstract]
Authors: Martinelli Mauro , Giovannangeli Francesca , Rotunno Sara , Trombetta Claudia Maria , Montomoli Emanuele
Published: February 2020

PURPOSE: Investigate the effectiveness of ozone treatment as an alternative sanitizing technology to conventional disinfectants in reducing the microbial contamination of both water and air.

METHODS: Ozone was added for 20 minutes to a well-defined volume of water and air by the system named “Ozonomatic®”. The effectiveness of ozonation was determined by counting CFU/m3 or mL of bacteria present in samples of air or water collected before (T0) and after (T1) the addition of ozone and comparing the microbial load of different bacteria present in ozonized and non-ozonized samples.

RESULTS: When the ozonation equipment was located at 30 cm from the surface of the water in the bath tub in which the bacteria were inoculated, the treatment was able to reduce the microbial load present in the aerosol by 70.4% at a temperature of 36°C for 48 hours. Conversely, at 22°C for 5 days, only a modest decrease (9.1%) was observed. Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were completely eliminated. A 93.9% reduction was observed for Staphylococcus aureus, followed by Streptococcus faecalis (25.9%). The addition of ozone to water was able to almost eliminate Staphylococcus aureus (98.9% reduction) and also to exert a strong impact on Legionella pneumophila (87.5% reduction). Streptococcus faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa showed a decrease of 64.2% and 57.4%, respectively. Conversely, only a 26.4% reduction was observed for the bacterium Escherichia coli. This study showed that the addition of ozone in the air exerted a modest reduction on microbial load at 36°C, whereas no effect was observed at 22°C.

CONCLUSIONS: Aqueous and gaseous ozone treatments were effective against microbial contaminants, reducing the CFU of the microorganisms and confirming its efficacy in water and air disinfection.
Ozone therapy in the treatment and cure of Ebola disease [abstract]
Authors: Rowen Robert Jay
Published: February 2020

BACKGROUND: Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) has ravaged three countries in West Africa. The mortality rate is extremely high, and it is perceived not only as threat to all of Africa but to the entire world. There is no known treatment to date other than administration of convalescent blood or experimental monoclonal antibodies, which both often fail. Ozone therapy (OT) has been in clinical use for decades and has been found to have physiological effects, which should directly inactivate the virus itself, as well as modulate its
damaging effects. We present the scientific background and the possibility of ozone therapy as a cure or prevention for EVD in five consecutive patients.

MATERIAL and METHODS: Ozone therapy administration by a combination of direct intravenous gas administration, rectal gas administration and ozonized water was administered to three patients with known acute EVD, one with apparent acute infection, and one case of extremely high risk. Treatment was carried out for up to ten days despite fast total remission of symptoms. Vitamin C and glutathione supporting supplements were administered.

RESULTS: Four symptomatic patients, three with test positive EVD confirmation and one (who suffered Ebola contaminated needle stick contamination three days earlier) without lab confirmation all remitted symptoms within 2-4 days and fully recovered. All four ill cases had an immediate recovery course upon initiation of therapy. The single case of non-symptomatic high-risk exposure treated preventively did not develop symptoms.

CONCLUSION: Ebola virus may have a very narrow window of redox infectivity capacity, which can be easily exploited with OT. OT may be a useful modality in EVD and other viral diseases and should be immediately studied to save lives that might otherwise be lost.
Ozone Therapy: two projects of treatment in Vietnam population for back pain and stroke [abstract]
Authors: Stangoni Lorenzo , Thi-Hoa Nguyen , Duy-Thang Trinh
Published: February 2020

INTRODUCTION: Here we show the results of two clinical projects carried out in Vietnamese patients suffering from low back pain or stroke aftermath comparing with our protocols with and without ozone therapy.

MATERIAL and METHODS: We did a first evaluation (project 1 - 179 patients) of adding ozone therapy in our protocols for low back pain and stroke aftermath. After realizing of the positive results, we started the second proyect (207 patients), comparing directly our old and new protocols that include ozone therapy. The treatment from low back pain were executed with classical paraverteberal injections of ozone. The treatment of stroke were executed with intramuscular injections of ozone in the affected area.

RESULTS: Comparing with our traditional treatment methods, ozone can improve the speed and the efficacy of the treatment.

CONCLUSION: Due to the small sample size, the results has limitations. However the primary evaluation is a reference which requires to have better collaboration with other physicians in order to increase the sample size and validite strongly this technique.
Implementing DORA
Authors: Ruud Kenneth , Lieungh Erik
Published: February 2020

In this episode, we try to explain what The Declaration on Research Assessment (DORA) is, and what happens after you have signed the declaration.

Kenneth Ruud, Deputy Vice Chancellor of Research at UiT The Arctic University of Norway gives us an insight into how this declaration will change his organization and what challenges they are facing. The host of this episode is Erik Lieungh.

UiT was one of the first institutions to sign the declaration. 743 organizations and 13184 have signed it as of December 2018, and you can find everyone here. You can find the full declaration here.

This episode was first published 27 November 2018.
Improving Research Impact
Authors: Van den Brekel Guus , Lieungh Erik
Published: February 2020

How can your research impact others outside academia and how do you measure it? In this episode, we discuss the topic of Research Impact – and how to improve it. Our Guest is Guus van den Brekel, medical Information specialist at the University Medical Center at the University of Groningen, in the Netherlands. The host of the podcast is Erik Lieungh.

This episode was first published 25 February 2019.
Evaluation of Some Heavy Metals in Soils around Major Parks in Gombe Town, Nigeria
Authors: Magaji Buhari , L. Danbature Wilson , Shehu Zaccheus , M. Sani Mukhtar , M. Sani Abdu , Abubakar Abdulkadir
Published: February 2020

The levels of heavy metals (Mn, Ni, Pb, Cr, Zn and Fe in mg/kg) in roadside soils from two main motor parks (Gombe Terminus and Tashan Dukku) in Gombe, Nigeria were assessed with respect to distance from the motor parks. The metals concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrophotometry.  The results show that iron had the highest concentration in all the soils and can be represented in the following order: Fe > Zn > Pb > Ni > Mn > Cr. The heavy metals concentrations were found to be higher in the roadside soils as compared with the control samples. Thus, the metals concentrations decrease with increase in distance away from the parks.
Assessment of Species Diversity and Forest Regeneration Potentiality in Buruku Forest Reserve, Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: I. Sodimu A. , A. Suleiman R. , Maikano S. , L. Lapkat G.
Published: February 2020

Species diversity and forest regeneration potentiality in Buruku Forest Reserve was assessed.  Four (4) plots (A–D) of 60 m x 60 m were laid in each plot. Point centred quadrant method of sampling was used. Transect were selected on pure random basis where data were collected on species diversity and families, density of woody stem, diameter class distribution, regeneration potentials and relative frequency. 21 families with a total of 135 species were obtained on the species diversity at Buruku Forest Reserve. The densities of woody plant varied between 434.03 - 771.60 per hectare in plots A, B, C and D. While the highest number of trees in diameter-class distribution were apportioned to 10 – 19 cm class interval in plots A, B, C and D respectively. Diameter class 50 cm and above had the lowest number of trees allocated to it. The regeneration potential of the diversified species was very poor, which has a great implication for regeneration and conservation of the various species encountered. Although Isoberlinia doka Craib & Stapf.     had the highest regeneration potential from each of the examined plots followed closely by    Acacia senegal, Parkia biglobosa and Terminalia avicennoides Gull & Peer. Important woody plants of economic importance, like Triplochiton scleroxylon K. Schum had zero regeneration potential. However, it is recommended that Buruku Forest Reserve Should be regenerated artificially (through enrichment planting, re-afforestation programme and so on) to increase the plant diversity in the forest and regeneration potentials of the species for sustainability of the forest reserve.
Why mixing alcohol, opioids and benzodiazepines can kill
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2020

Alcohol, opioids and benzodiazepines are very different pharmacologically but have similar effects in the brain when it comes to reinforcement — and also to respiratory depression and death.
Enhancing the Elastocaloric Cooling Stability of NiFeGa Alloys via Introducing Pores
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Zhang Xuexi , Qian Mingfang , Geng Lin
Published: February 2020

Elastocaloric cooling stability is an essential factor of solid‐state refrigeration to become a promising candidate in replacing the conventional vapor compression technology. Herein, Ni53.5Fe19.9Ga26.6 foam with 53% porosity is fabricated by a replication casting technique and its elastocaloric properties compared with Ni53Fe19.4Ga27.6 bulk alloy. NiFeGa foam expresses reversible superelasticity with strain ≈3.9% above austenite finishing temperature and also exhibits an adiabatic temperature change of 2.8 K smaller than its bulk counterpart 5.8 K. The compressive cyclic test reveals that foam shows better cyclic performance up to 100 cycles over bulk sample under the same loading effect. The enhanced cyclic stability in foam achieves due to pores and narrow hysteresis energy loss.