bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
О точках накопления объемов лог-поверхностей
Authors: Alexeev Valery Anatol'evich , Liu Wenfei
Published: July 2019

Пусть $\mathcal{C} \subset [0,1]$ - множество, удовлетворяющее условию убывающих цепей. Доказывается что любая точка накопления обьемов лог-канонических поверхностей $(X, B)$ с коэффициентами в $ \mathcal{C} $ может быть реализована как объем лог-канонической поверхности с объемным и численно эффективным дивизором $K_X+B$ и с коэффициентами в $\overline{\mathcal{C}} \cup \{1 \}$, таким образом что по крайней мере один коэффициентов лежит в $\operatorname{Acc} (\mathcal{C}) \cup \{1 \}$. Как следствие, если $\overline {\mathcal{C}} \subset \mathbb{Q}$, то все точки накопления объемов являются рациональными числами, что доказывает гипотезу Блахе. Для множества стандартных коэффициентов $\mathcal{C}_2=\{1-1/{n} \mid n\in\mathbb{N} \} \cup \{1 \}$ доказывается, что минимальная точка накопления находится между $1/{(7^2 \cdot 42^2)}$ и $1/{42^2}$.
Библиография: 14 наименований.
Perceptions of the Private Sector for Creating Effective Public–Private Partnerships against Tuberculosis in Metro Manila, Philippines
Authors: Sherpa James , Yadav Rajendra-Prasad
Published: July 2019

This article’s goal is to assess the perspectives of private providers on current and future public–private engagement in Metro Manila, a city of 13 million using semistructured interviews with a convenience sample of 18 private physicians. Our study found that private providers perceived their clientele as loyal and their services as distinct from public services, with unique attractions of convenience and quality of service. They saw value in engaging with the public sector for knowledge exchange, access to public-sector commodities, and access to public sector assistance with public health tasks related to tuberculosis (TB). However, their proposed ways of engaging were more centered on the private sector role, in ways that are not currently being pursued by the public sector. It is of the utmost importance to recognize that private provider perspectives are essential to build effective engagement models and, thus, to reach all clients with quality TB care.
Hygiene in Restaurants and among Street Food Vendors in Bangladesh
Authors: Nizame Fosiul A. , Alam Mahbub U. , Masud Abdullah A. , Shoab Abul K. , Opel Aftab , Islam Md. Khairul , Luby Stephen P. , Unicomb Leanne
Published: July 2019

Poor hand hygiene and food handling put consumers of restaurant and street food at risk of enteric disease, especially in low-income countries. This study aimed to collect hygiene indicators from a nationally representative sample of restaurants and street food vendors. The field team collected data from 50 rural villages and 50 urban administrative units (mahallas). We explored restaurant service staff, cook, and food vendor hygiene practices (N = 300 restaurants and 600 street food vendors), by observing hygiene facilities, food handling, and utensil cleaning. A qualitative assessment explored perceptions of hygiene related to food handling. During restaurant spot checks, 91% (273/300) had soap and water at handwashing location for customers but in only 33% (100) at locations convenient for restaurant staff. Among street food–vending stalls, 11% (68/600) had soap and water when observed. During 90-minute structured observations, cooks used soap to wash hands on 14/514 (3%) of occasions before food preparation, 6/82 (8%) occasions after cutting fish/meat/vegetables, 3/71 (4%) occasions before serving food, and 0/49 (0%) occasions) before hand-mashing food/salad preparation; no street food vendors washed hands with soap during these food-handling events. Most of the qualitative study participants perceived that customers select a vendor based on tastiness of the food, whereas no one mentioned the importance of food hygiene. The study demonstrates widespread poor hygiene and food-handling practices in restaurants and among food vendors. Based on our study findings, we proposed a food premises Hygiene Investigation Model to create action plans to improve food safety.
Evaluation of a Water and Hygiene Project in Health-Care Facilities in Siaya County, Kenya, 2016
Authors: Davis William , Odhiambo Aloyce , Oremo Jared , Otieno Ronald , Mwaki Alex , Rajasingham Anu , Kim Sunkyung , Quick Robert
Published: July 2019

To address water and hygiene infrastructure deficiencies in health-care facilities (HCFs) in Siaya County, Kenya, portable water stations, soap, and water treatment products were provided to 109 HCFs in 2005. In 2011 and again in 2016, we interviewed staff in 26 randomly selected HCFs, observed water sources, water stations, and tested source and stored water for chlorine residual and Escherichia coli. Of 26 HCFs, 22 (85%) had improved water supplies, and 22 (85%) had functioning handwashing and drinking water stations, but < 50% provided soap or water treatment. Thirteen (50%) of 26 source water samples yielded E. coli; 24 (92%) of 26 stored water samples yielded no E. coli, including nine with residual chlorine and nine untreated samples from sources yielding no E. coli. Eleven years after implementation, 85% of HCFs continued to use water stations that protected water from recontamination. Sustainable provision of soap and water treatment products could optimize intervention use.
Identification of Clinical Infections of Leishmania Imported into Australia: Revising Speciation with Polymerase Chain Reaction-RFLP of the Kinetoplast Maxicircle
Authors: Kaufer Alexa , Ellis John , Stark Damien
Published: July 2019

Leishmaniasis is a vector-borne disease caused by protozoan parasites of the Leishmania genus. In Australia, leishmaniasis is an imported disease that is presenting itself at increased rates because of international travel, the influx of immigrants, and deployment of military operations to endemic regions. Although Leishmania species are morphologically indistinguishable, there is a strong correlation between some causative species of leishmaniasis and the subsequent response to the treatments available and patient outcome. Consequently, identification of the infective species is imperative as misidentification can result in the administering of an ineffective drug. The aim of this study was to develop a simple diagnostic tool with high sensitivity and specificity, which is capable of detecting the presence of the parasite and accurately differentiating the causative species in question. Using the advantageous properties of the maxi-circle kinetoplast DNA, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) targeting the ND7 gene was developed for the analysis of imported cases of human leishmaniasis in Australia. Designed as a dual analysis, concurrent PCR of Leishmania maxi-circle DNA and digestion with two separate enzymes (NlaIII and HpyCH4IV), this study provides an appraisal on 24 imported cases of leishmaniasis between 2008 and 2017. Five Leishmania species were reported, with members of the Viannia subgenus being the most common. The implementation of novel diagnostic procedures for leishmaniasis such as the one reported here is needed to establish a gold standard practice for the diagnosis and treatment of leishmaniasis.
Disseminated Mycobacterium ulcerans Infection in Wild Grasscutters (Thryonomys swinderianus), Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Hammoudi Nassim , Dizoe Agui Sylvestre , Regoui Sofiane , Davoust Bernard , Drancourt Michel , Bouam Amar
Published: July 2019

Buruli ulcer is an infectious disease provoking chronic, disabling skin ulcers in mammals and humans. Buruli ulcer is caused by Mycobacterium ulcerans, an environmental mycobacterium synthesizing a toxin called mycolactone responsible for the pathogenicity. The reservoirs and the modes of transmission of M. ulcerans remain elusive, limiting the prophylaxis capabilities in rural areas in endemic countries. In Australia, several studies have demonstrated the probable role of possums as reservoirs. In Côte d’Ivoire, some studies have speculated on the potential role of grasscutters in the transmission cycle of M. ulcerans. In this study, we detected M. ulcerans–specific sequences in rectal contents and spleens collected in wild grasscutters hunted in Buruli ulcer–endemic area in Côte d’Ivoire, but not in farmed negative control animals and in domesticated animals, namely, pigs, goats, cattle, and dogs, living in close contact with the local population. Some grasscutters exhibited the same sequence pattern in the feces and spleen. These observations confirm the asymptomatic gut carriage of M. ulcerans in this mammal species. Moreover, these observations suggest the dissemination of M. ulcerans from the gut to the spleen in grasscutters. These observations suggest that, in some mammals, M. ulcerans is not only an inoculated pathogen but also a translocating invasive pathogen.
Geophagy among a Cohort of Kenyan Women with Mixed HIV Status: A Longitudinal Analysis
Authors: Miller Joshua D. , Fitzgerald Kaitlyn G. , Smith Abigail L. , Young Sera L.
Published: July 2019

Geophagy, the craving and purposive consumption of earth, is commonly reported during pregnancy. To date, most studies of geophagy have been cross-sectional and have not assessed its relationship with HIV infection. Therefore, to concurrently examine proposed etiologies of geophagy, a cohort of 371 women with mixed HIV status from Nyanza region, Kenya were recruited in late pregnancy and interviewed about pica at nine time points, through 21 months postpartum. Nutritional status (hemoglobin concentration and food insecurity), physical health (HIV infection and gastrointestinal distress), and psychosocial health (depression and perceived stress) were also repeatedly assessed. Prevalence of geophagy was greatest during pregnancy and decreased significantly postpartum. In a two-level hierarchical linear model, a one-unit increase in average hemoglobin (g/dL) was associated with a 35% decrease in the odds of geophagy. The adjusted odds ratios (CI) of geophagy were 3.98 (2.99, 5.29), 2.54 (1.13, 5.69), and 1.68 (1.15, 2.44) times higher if a woman was pregnant, reported diarrhea in the prior 24 hours, or was HIV positive, respectively. The adjusted odds ratio of geophagy was 1.61 (1.06, 2.45) times higher if a woman reported geophagy during childhood. Our results lend greatest plausibility to the protection hypothesis (i.e., that geophagy occurs in response to compromised immunity and/or infection). Given the high prevalence of geophagy, clinicians should regularly screen for the behavior and measure inflammatory biomarkers before treating geophagy with iron supplements, which can exacerbate some infections.
Elevated Activation of Neutrophil Toll-Like Receptors in Patients with Acute Severe Leptospirosis: An Observational Study
Authors: Lindow Janet C. , Tsay Annie J. , Montgomery Ruth R. , Reis Eliana A. G. , Wunder Elsio A. , Araújo Guilherme , Nery Nivison R. R. , Mohanty Subhasis , Shaw Albert C. , Lee Patty J. , Reis Mitermayer G. , Ko Albert I.
Published: July 2019

Leptospirosis is the leading cause of zoonotic morbidity and mortality globally, yet little is known about the immune mechanisms that may contribute to pathogenesis and severe disease. Although neutrophils are a key component of early immune responses to infection, they have been associated with tissue damage and inflammation in some febrile infections. To assess whether neutrophils contribute to the pathogenesis observed in severe leptospirosis, we quantitated levels of neutrophil activation markers in patients with varying disease severities. Hospitalized leptospirosis patients had significantly higher levels of toll-like receptors 2 and 4 (TLR2 and TLR4, respectively) on peripheral neutrophils than healthy controls, with the highest levels detected in patients with organ dysfunction. We observed no significant differences in other neutrophil baseline activation markers (CD62L and CD11b) or activation capacity (CD62L and CD11b levels following stimulation), regardless of disease severity. Our results provide preliminary evidence supporting the hypothesis that higher initial bacterial loads or inadequate or delayed neutrophil responses, rather than TLR-driven inflammation, may drive severe disease outcomes.
Mitigating Cholera in the Aftermath of Cyclone Idai
Authors: Chen Wilbur H. , Azman Andrew S.
Published: July 2019

Catastrophic damage and floods followed the deadliest cyclone on record for the Southern Hemisphere. In the aftermath of Cyclone Idai, a cholera outbreak was detected. The global stockpile of oral cholera vaccine was rapidly deployed to counter this fast-growing epidemic. We urge the international community to continue to highlight the importance of water, sanitation, and hygiene as the long-term goal for controlling cholera and meeting the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.
O oportunismo pré-eleitoral ao nível das despesas públicas compensa na busca pela reeleição nos municípios catarinenses no século XXI?
Authors: Lautenschlage Jonatan
Published: July 2019

Da construção de estradas a aumentos dos salários dos funcionários públicos, passando por reduções nos impostos no período que antecede as eleições, as manipulações orçamentais em anos eleitorais são um fenómeno observado em diversas nações, estados e municípios em todo o mundo. Muitos políticos acreditam que ao aumentarem as despesas no ano das eleições e durante o mandato, conseguirão aumentar as suas chances de obter um novo mandato. Mas será que isso realmente ocorre em Santa Catarina? E será que em todos os municípios catarinenses esse fenômeno é igual? Ao estudar as eleições municipais catarinense entre 2005 e 2016, contatou-se que os eleitores de Santa Catarina premiam o comportamento oportunista de seus prefeitos, tanto nas despesas públicas, como nos investimentos. Constatou-se, também, que o oportunismo compensa nos municípios com maiores níveis de IDHM.
The regional temperature implications of strong air quality measures
Authors: Aamaas Borgar , Berntsen Terje K. , Samset Bjørn H.
Published: July 2019

Abstract. Anthropogenic emissions of short-lived climate forcers (SLCFs) affect both air quality and climate. How much regional temperatures are affected by ambitious SLCF emission mitigation policies, is however still uncertain. We investigate the potential temperature implications of stringent air quality policies, by applying matrices of regional temperature responses to new pathways for future anthropogenic emissions of aerosols, methane (CH4) and other short-lived gases. These measures have only minor impact on CO2 emissions. Two main options are explored, one with climate optimal reductions (i.e. constructed to yield a maximum global cooling) and one with maximum technically feasible reductions. The temperature response is calculated for four latitude response bands (90–28° S, 28° S–28° N, 28–60° N, and 60–90° N) by using existing regional temperature change potential (ARTP) values for four emission regions: Europe, East Asia, shipping, and the rest of the world. By 2050, we find that global surface temperature can be reduced by −0.3 ± 0.08 °C with climate-optimal mitigation of SLCFs relative to a baseline scenario, and as much as −0.7 °C in the Arctic. Cutting CH4 and BC emissions contribute the most. This could offset warming equal to approximately 15 years of current global CO2 emissions. If SLCFs are mitigated heavily, we find a net warming of about 0.1 °C, but when uncertainties are included a slight cooling is also possible. In the climate optimal scenario, the largest contributions to cooling comes from the energy, domestic, waste, and transportation sectors. In the maximum technically feasible mitigation scenario, emission changes from the sectors industry, energy, and shipping will give warming. Some measures, such as in the sectors agriculture waste burning, domestic, transport, and industry, have outsized impact on the Arctic, especially by cutting BC emissions in winter in areas near the Arctic.
Leaf wax n-alkane pattern and compound-specific δ13C of plants and topsoils from semi-arid Mongolia
Authors: Struck Julian , Bliedtner Marcel , Strobel Paul , Schumacher Jens , Bazarradnaa Enkhtuya , Zech Roland
Published: July 2019

Abstract. n-Alkane pattern and their compound-specific δ13C signatures are valuable proxies for paleoenvironmental reconstructions. So far, their potential has not been investigated in semi-arid to arid regions. We have therefore analysed the leaf wax n-alkanes and their compound-specific δ13C of five plant species (Poaceae, Cyperaceae, Artemisia spp., Caragana spp. and Larix sp.), and topsoils (0–5 cm) along two transects in central and southern Mongolia. Grasses depict a distinct dominance of the n-C31 homologue, whereas Caragana spp. and Artemisia spp. are dominated by n-C29. Larix sp. is characterized by the mid-chain n-alkanes n-C23 and n-C25. From plant to soil, n-alkane homologue pattern show the potential to differentiate between grass covered sites from those covered by Caragana spp. n-Alkane concentrations and OEP values of the topsoils are distinctly influenced by mean annual temperature, mean annual precipitation and aridity, likely reflecting the degree of n-alkane degradation and biomass production. In contrast, the n-alkane average chain-length and the n-alkane ratio (n-C31 / n-C29 + n-C31) are not affected by climatic parameters. The compound-specific δ13C signatures are strongly corelated to climate, showing a significant enrichment with increasing aridity, indicating the effect of water use efficiency. Our calibration results suggest that long-chain n-alkanes and their compound-specific δ13C signatures have great potential to reconstruct paleoenvironmental and -climatic conditions when used in sediment archives from Mongolia.
Enhanced warming of seasonal cold extremes relative to the mean in the Northern Hemisphere extratropics
Authors: Gross Mia H. , Donat Markus G. , Alexander Lisa V. , Sherwood Steven C.
Published: July 2019

Abstract. Cold extremes are anticipated to warm at a faster rate than both hot extremes and average temperatures for much of the Northern Hemisphere. The consequences of warming cold extremes can affect numerous sectors, including human health, tourism and various ecosystems that are sensitive to cold temperatures. Using a selection of Global Climate Models, this paper explores the enhanced warming of seasonal cold extremes relative to seasonal mean temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere extratropics. The potentially driving physical mechanisms are investigated by assessing conditions on the day, or prior to, when the cold extreme occurs to understand how the different environmental fields are related. During winter months, North America, Europe and much of Eurasia show enhanced warming of cold extremes projected for the late 21st century, compared to the mid-20th century. This is shown to be largely driven by reductions in cold air temperature advection, suggested as a likely consequence of Arctic amplification. In spring and autumn, cold extremes are expected to warm faster than average temperatures for most of the Northern Hemisphere mid- to high-latitudes, particularly Alaska, northern Canada and northern Eurasia. In the shoulder seasons, projected decreases in snow cover and associated reductions in surface albedo are suggested as the largest contributor affecting the accelerated rates of warming in cold extremes. This study uses a novel approach to examine the day in which the extreme occurs to improve our understanding of the environmental conditions that contribute to the accelerated warming of cold extremes relative to mean temperatures.
The Effect of Tourism and Market Institutional Policies on Tourist Visits from ASEAN Countries
Authors: Budisusila Antonius , Susilo Albertus Maqnus , Sarungu JJ. , Wiyono WS Vincent Hadi
Published: July 2019

Tourism industry has experienced a significant development. This can be seen from several indicators, such as the number of foreign and domestic tourist visits, tourist spending, employment opportunities and the tourism sector's contribution to national income (GDP). Indonesian Tourist Policy has been combined with Law No.10 of 2009 concerning Tourism, and operationalized by Government Regulation No. 50 of 2011 concerning the National Tourism Development Master Plan (RIPPARNAS). It coincides with the ASEAN liberalization policies. Previous economic tourism research has not accommodated the role of economic institutions as a determinant of foreign tourism demand in Indonesia. This study focuses on tourism demand from ASEAN countries. The model is expected to explain the optimization of tourism resources for development. This data panel study revealed that Fixed Effect Model (FEM) is the most appropriate econometrical model used to estimate tourism in Indonesia in ten years (2006-2015). This study revealed some similarities with previous studies, especially in strengthening the theory of demand. The relative cost of tourism which tends to be more efficient will increase the number of tourist visits. Access to communication infrastructure and the proportion of city residents in the country of origin will increase tourism demand to Indonesia. Liberalization of policies need not be feared by many people, because the institutional aspects of the market which include rules, regulations, fiscal strength and market openness will encourage the acceleration of tourism. However, this study found that tourism services in Indonesia are still inferior compare to those of ASEAN countries. This requires international tourism marketing that changes perceptions and develops adequate destinations to facilitate ASEAN community members. In addition, this study considers that modernization in rural areas and the strengthening of related policies are related to the implementation of tourism master plans to improve tourism optimization.
Parental Death, Grief and Bereavement: A Qualitative Study of College Students Who Have a Parent with Cancer
Authors: Tang Yong , Li Yingying
Published: July 2019

Objective The loss of a parent with cancer is one of the most traumatic events a college student can face. The purpose of this study was to identify the main elements of bereavement experiences among college students in China who lost a parent with cancer. Methods A total of 18 college students volunteered to take part in three focus groups. Results Four themes were developed through content analysis: facing huge life’s changes, experiencing loss and suffering, challenges and coping strategies for facing parental death, and re-interpreting death. These four main themes were then divided into 15 sub-themes. Conclusions The analysis showed that parental death may negatively influence college students’ bereavement processes. Bereavement should include screening to aid in the recognition of high-risk adolescents through screening survey and screening interviews.
Theoretical Issues of "Security" Concept
Authors: Sidorkin Aleksandr I. , Iroshnikov Denis V.
Published: July 2019

The development of ideas about the category of "security" has come a long way, correlated with the development of human civilization. Initially conceived as a biological reaction, aimed at one’s own life preservation from the all-encompassing world danger for the ancient man, security moves from the category of biological reaction to the category of the thinking process with the development of mental activity, reflecting not only the response to the preservation of life, but also the anticipation of threat appearance danger. According to the authors, the qualitative transition of security comprehension from everyday life and practicality to the scientific aspect takes place at the turn of the 16th-17th centuries due to the rapid development of science and technology during this period of time. The scientific interest in the formal-logical interpretation of security understanding and the desire to develop appropriate terminology that adequately reflects the essence of security is especially evident in the philosophy by F. Bacon and B. Spinoza. However, neither during this period, nor during subsequent periods, the science has developed an established (academic) concept of security. The existing numerous concepts of security are nothing more than empirical in nature and reflect not the essence of security phenomenon, but the person’s subjective perceptions of it.
‘Legal Multi-parenthood’ in Context: Experiences of Parents in Light of the Dutch Proposed Family Law Reforms
Authors: Cammu Nola
Published: July 2019

‘Legal Multi-parenthood’ in Context: Experiences of Parents in Light of the Dutch Proposed Family Law Reforms

In 2016 the Dutch Government Commission of Reassessment of Parenthood (GCRP) proposed a wide array of legal changes to Family Law, e.g. with regard to legal multi-parenthood and legal multiple parental responsibility. Although the commission researched these matters thoroughly in its quest towards proposing new directions in the field of Family Law, multi-parents themselves were not interviewed by the commission. Therefore, this article aims to explore a possible gap between the social experiences of parents and the recommendations of the GCRP. Data was drawn from in depth-interviews with a sample of 25 parents in plus-two-parent constellations living in Belgium and the Netherlands. For the most part the social experiences of parents aligned with the ways in which the GCRP plans to legally accommodate the former. However, my data tentatively suggests that other (legal) recommendations of the GCRP need to be explored more in depth.

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In 2016 stelde de Nederlandse Staatscommissie Herijking ouderschap voor om een wettelijk kader te creëren voor meerouderschap en meeroudergezag. Ondanks de grondigheid van het gevoerde onderzoek ontbraken er gegevens omtrent de ervaringen van de meerouders zelf. Dit artikel levert een bijdrage in het vullen van deze leemte door inzage te geven in de (juridische) ervaringen van 25 ouders in meerouderschapsconstellaties in België en Nederland.
Chocolates, jabones y otros reclamos.
Authors: Tena-Parera Daniel
Published: July 2019

El Boom de la Publicidad coincide con la mejora de los procedimientos de producción gráfica sobre cartón, sobre hojalata e incluso sobre cerámica. La exposición que presenta el “Museu de Disseny de Barcelona” hace un recorrido por la publicidad de productos anunciados en escaparates, mostradores, en paredes o en cualquier otro lugar entre los años 1890 y 1950. Son presentadas más de 250 obras de artistas gráficos que permiten observar las estrategias de los contenidos formales y textuales usados por la publicidad de esa época.
Synthesis and characterization of LaMnO3 nanocrystals and graphene oxide: fabrication of graphene oxide–LaMnO3 sensor for simultaneous electrochemical determination of hydroquinone and catechol
Authors: Akbari Sedighe , Foroughi Mohammad Mehdi , Hassani Nadiki Hadi , Jahani Shohreh
Published: July 2019

For the first time, a new method for preparation of graphene oxide-LaMnO3 (GO-LaMnO3) nanocompositeas a material of electrochemical sensor for simultaneous determination of catechol (CT) and hydroquinone (HQ) is developed. LaMnO3 nanoparticles have been characterized by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) technique. Due to the excellent catalytic activity, enhanced electrical conductivity and high surface area, the simultaneous determination of HQ and CT with two well-defined peaks has been achieved at the GO-LaMnO3 modified electrode. Comparing with unmodified electrodes, the oxidation currents of HQ and CT increased remarkably. Also, the result exhibited a great decrease in anodic overpotentialresulting in about 150 mV negative shift of potential. The catalytic peak current values are found linearly dependent on the HQ and CT concentrations in the range of 0.5–433.3 and 0.5–460.0 μM with sensitivity of 0.0719 and 0.0712 μA μM-1, respectively. The detection limits for HQ and CT are determined as 0.06 and 0.05 μM, respectively.
Simultaneous determination of trace levels of Cd(II) and Pb(II) in tap water samples by anodic stripping voltammetry with 2-mercaptobenzothiazole modified electrode
Authors: Phlay Sophy , Tapachai Weena Aemaeg , Daungthong Supunnee , Worarattananurak Puchong , Chooto Pipat
Published: July 2019

Glassy carbon electrode (GCE) modified by 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT), mesoporous silica (Meso) and bismuth was developed to determine Cd(II) and Pb(II) simultaneously by square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV). In-situ preparation was found to work best in optimum conditions of acetate buffer pH 6, accumulation potential of -1.1 V, deposition time of 300 s and scan rate of 200 mV/s. SW peaks revealed the linear range of 5-50 µg/L Cd(II) and 5-50 µg/L Pb(II). LOD and LOQ for Cd(II) and Pb(II) were determined as 0.56, 0.80, 1.87 and 2.66 µg/L, respectively. The interaction of metals with bismuth and MBT, as well as higher surface area due to mesoporous silica, support beneficial performance of the modified electrode. Insignificant interferences from other regularly present metal ions were found. With SRM1640 standard, the SWASV results are found comparable to those obtained by inductive coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES). The method was used to analyze the metals in tap water by standard addition method with the satisfactory recovery of 100.7 % for Cd(II) and 100.8 % for Pb(II).
Platinum utilization in proton exchange membrane fuel cell and direct methanol fuel cell - Review
Authors: Bandapati Madhavi , Goel Sanket , Krishnamurthy Balaji
Published: July 2019

Proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) and direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) are increasingly used as substitutes to conventional energy systems. Their compact design, high energy density and efficient energy-conversion offer several advantages over existing energy systems with potential for use in a variety of applications. However, performance, robustness and cost are the key challenges to overcome before fuel cells can be commercialized. Even though the use of platinum (Pt) and platinum group metal (PGM) alloy catalysts provide higher performance and durability, they are at the same time the largest cost components which need to be addressed. This paper reviews different approaches adopted to enhance Pt utilization such as reducing Pt loading, decreasing Pt particle size, developing Pt free metallic alloy catalyst, improving Pt dispersion, developing membrane electrode assembly (MEA) fabrication methods, increasing mass-transport at the electrode surface and modifying the catalyst support materials. Finally, the performance optimization efforts for Pt utilization are summarized with insights into probable directions of future research in this area.
REPRINTED WITH PERMISSION OF IASP – Pain assessment in advanced dementia. Validity of the German PAINAD – a prospective double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Lukas Albert , Hagg-Grün Ulrich , Mayer Benjamin , Flscher Thomas , Schuler Matthias
Published: July 2019

Pain in combination with dementia is a common condition that makes pain recognition significantly more difficult. This results in undertreatment of pain in those suffering from dementia. The Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) scale currently represents one of the best approaches to pain detection in dementia. In a pilot study, strong inter-rater and retest reliability of the German version (PAINAD-G) was proven. However, the available data concerning the validity of this instrument were insufficient. The aim of the study was to validate the PAINAD-G scale by a double-blind randomised placebo-controlled trial in people with advanced dementia expected to be in pain. A second aim was to examine whether other observational tools (BISAD5 Observation Instrument for Assessing Pain in the Elderly with Dementia) (German: Beobachtungsintrument fur das Schmerzassessment bei alten Menschen mit Demenz, Checklist of Nonverbal Pain Indicators, Algoplus) were also able to demonstrate a significant difference between the study groups. Surprisingly, the study revealed no difference in „pain reduction” between those treated by oxycodone compared with those treated by placebo. Equally, none of the other 3 observational tools were able to demonstrate a significant difference between the study groups. However, correlations among the 4 observational tools were mostly moderate to high. A number of possible reasons for this observation, such as difficulties regarding sensitivity to change/responsiveness, consistence of the fundamental construct, influence of the early onset study, and efficacy of the analgesic in advanced dementia are discussed.
Do Species Really Matter?
Authors: Cline Brendan ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: July 2019

Many environmentalists hold that the loss of a species is intrinsically bad, and many also think that we have moral obligations to species as such. In an attempt to capture these thoughts, some philosophers have suggested that species are bearers of intrinsic value. This approach works well in paradigmatic cases. However, it begins to break down in more difficult scenarios, such as when species boundaries are unclear or when resources are scarce. The case study of the Galápagos giant tortoises in this essay illustrates the limitations of traditional accounts of the non-instrumental value of species. Careful attention to this case indicates how species-centric accounts diverge from the evaluative attitudes of environmentalists, and suggests new directions for theoretical replacements.
A Cartesian Approach to Environmental Ethics
Authors: Garrett Ryan ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: July 2019

The philosophy of René Descartes has been attacked by environmental ethicists for supposedly being pivotal in preventing the formulation of proper environmental concerns and attitudes. Yet, Descartes’ philosophy if read charitably is, in fact, effective in developing a proper environmental ethic. He believed God created two kinds of substances, mental and physical; humans are composed of a mental and physical substance, plants and animals of only a physical substance. He argued that humans, animals, and plants, despite their difference in substance, share the same status of creatures and interact with one another. Morally, Descartes argued that humans properly serving God receive theistic pleasure from promoting the welfare of their communities. Humans, animals, and plants exist in an ecological community with one another. Thus, Descartes’ philosophy naturally develops a theo-ecocentric environmental ethic as humans will receive theistic pleasure in promoting the welfare of ecological communities.
Aldo Leopold's “Great Possessions”
Authors: Gerber Lisa ,   Center for Environmental Philosophy, The University of North Texas
Published: July 2019

In environmental ethics, the conception of possession is generally criticized, since land, plants, and animals should not be objectified, controlled, or owned. Yet, Aldo Leopold planned to title A Sand County Almanac “Great Possessions.” His title emphasized a point that Leopold thought important. In contrast to a sense of possession as domination, Leopold articulates a deeper, moral sense of possession in which the person claims and is claimed by others. For example, not only does Leopold claim his pines, his wife, and his chickadees, but he is also claimed by them. In this sense, possession is an act of love, care, and willingness to work on the behalf of others with passion and commitment. This sense of possession is worthy of our understanding and our emulation.
On a So-called Demonstration of the Causal Power of Absences
Authors: Oderberg David S. ,   University of South Bohemia
Published: July 2019

Tyron Goldschmidt has recently published a non-paper in which he claims to demonstrate the causal power of absences. His non-paper is, precisely, an empty page. The non-paper is ingenious and at first “glance” the “reader” might think that the absence of words on the page does prove that negative beings can literally cause states such as surprise or disappointment. Closer analysis, however, shows that Goldschmidt’s clever non-paper not only lacks words but also lacks causal power. Serious metaphysical problems pile up if we suppose otherwise.
Proposta de implantação da ferramenta Balanced Scorecard em uma empresa de pequeno porte
Authors: Trevisan Laís Viera , Fialho Camila Borges , Coronel Daniel Arruda
Published: July 2019

A administração estratégica, dentro de uma organização, consiste em um processo de análise da empresa sob diversos ângulos, em um direcionamento de rumos e monitoramento das ações. Além disso, é formada por um processo contínuo, desde a análise do ambiente empresarial até o controle estratégico. Dispondo de ferramentas de suporte à gestão estratégica, como o Balanced Scorecard (BSC), a administração estratégica auxilia no alinhamento entre a dinâmica do ambiente em que a organização está inserida e na definição de objetivos, estratégias e ações, bem como no controle dos resultados. Assim, se bem utilizada pela empresa, ela é capaz de fornecer uma série de benefícios. Diante disso, o presente trabalho visa à implantação da ferramenta Balanced Scorecard em uma empresa do ramo de consultoria empresarial, contemplando a elaboração de algumas etapas do seu planejamento estratégico. Para tanto, foi realizada uma pesquisa de natureza descritiva com abordagem metodológica qualitativa, optando-se pelo estudo de caso, devido à ênfase em uma unidade de estudo em particular. A partir de uma revisão bibliográfica, pesquisa documental, entrevista semiestruturada com os proprietários e observação participante, foi possível realizar a estruturação e organização do BSC, permitindo determinar os caminhos que irão nortear a implementação de algumas etapas do planejamento estratégico, para posterior alcance dos objetivos e resultados pretendidos.
Sustentabilidade municipal: análise de desenvolvimento socioeconômico de municípios mineradores do Estado de Minas Gerais
Authors: Neto Lauro Ferreira Guimarães , Cunha Gustavo Rodrigues
Published: July 2019

O presente estudo teve por objetivo identificar o grau de dependência econômica dos municípios do Estado de Minas Gerais em relação a empresas mineradoras instaladas em seus territórios. Buscou-se analisar o relacionamento entre o nível de desenvolvimento municipal e os royalties recebidos pela exploração mineral nos municípios. O presente estudo descritivo e explicativo utilizou dados disponíveis nos sites do Atlas do Desenvolvimento Humano no Brasil (Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal - IDHM), Fundação João Pinheiro – FJP (Índice Mineiro de Responsabilidade Social - IMRS, Índice de Desenvolvimento Tributário e econômico - IDTE e Índice de Qualidade Geral de Educação), Tesouro Nacional (Arrecadação e Royalties) e Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística (Produto Interno Bruto Municipal - PIB-M e População). Foram analisados 619 municípios, selecionados por serem aqueles que receberam royalties efetivamente de mineradoras. Os métodos utilizados foram análise de cluster, análise de correlação e análise de regressão. Observou-se que existe um viés entre o nível de dependência entre os royalties e o índice de desenvolvimento dos municípios analisados. Entretanto, o estudo ressalta que municípios muito dependentes de royalties nem sempre apresentam os melhores resultados socioeconômicos entre os demais municípios mineiros. Sobre a sustentabilidade econômica, foram detectados municípios em que as receitas e as despesas não possuem uma relação de equilíbrio de longo prazo, constatando que os royalties não estão sendo aplicados em projetos que estimulem a diversificação econômica dos municípios. Observou-se dessa forma que, à medida que a arrecadação total aumenta o IDHM, o PIB-M e o IDTE do município também aumentam. Já para o IMRS e o Índice de Qualidade Geral de Educação, verificou-se que os royalties não são capazes de explicar sua variação.
Bons na economia e bons na transparência? Estudo da correlação entre indicadores econômicos e de transparência nos estados brasileiros
Authors: Bellini Elyrouse Cavalcante de Oliveira , Silva Alexandre César Batista da , Tenório Juliene Gama , Freitas Maurício Assuero Lima de , Miranda Luiz Carlos
Published: July 2019

Temática cada vez mais discutida no âmbito da administração pública, a transparência pode enriquecer a qualidade da democracia, melhorar a accountability, possibilitar uma maior inserção social e diminuir a corrupção. Assim, refletir sobre a efetividade da transparência reportada pelos entes da federação e os elementos que podem fundamentá-la torna-se cada vez mais relevante. Nesse contexto, este trabalho teve por objetivo verificar se há correlação entre índices nacionais de transparência divulgados pelos órgãos de controle (Controladoria Geral da União - CGU e Ministério Público Federal - MPF) e indicadores econômicos (dos estados brasileiros). Para consecução do estudo, foi feita análise de regressão entre os indicadores citados (transparência e econômicos), com o intuito de verificar se esses explicam aqueles. Adicionalmente, foi feito o teste de correlação dos coeficientes por ordem Spearman com o intuito de ratificar os achados da regressão. Os resultados mostram que os indicadores econômicos (DTP/RCL e DCL/RCL) não explicam os indicadores de transparência apresentados pelos estados (Índice Nacional de Transparência - INT-MPF e o Índice Escala Brasil Transparente- EBT-CGU), visto que os modelos de regressão aplicados não são significativos. Os testes de correlação por ordem de Spearman ratificaram os resultados obtidos. Portanto, não há indícios de que as variáveis estejam correlacionadas.
Aplicação do índice de precipitação normalizada nos casos de ENOS canônico e Modoki ocorridos na bacia hidrográfica Aguapeí-Peixe/SP
Authors: Bonfim Osmar Evandro Toledo , Silva Djane Fonseca da
Published: July 2019

A complexidade na definição de seca tem sido um obstáculo para a detecção dos impactos inicias, bem como o correto monitoramento desse fenômeno. Desse modo o Índice de Precipitação Normalizada mostrou-se capaz de quantificar o déficit ou excesso de precipitação em diversas escalas temporais, permitindo comparações entre regiões com diferentes características climáticas. Objetivou-se neste trabalho identificar e quantificar os eventos extremos ocorridos na Bacia hidrográfica Aguapeí-Peixe, e simultaneamente, relacionar as possíveis causas destes extremos com os tipos de ENOS que influencia na pluviometria da região. Foram utilizados dados pluviométricos entre 1958 a 2013 de oito estações da Bacia, obtidos da Agência Nacional das Águas. Neste período foram identificados através da aplicação do Índice de Precipitação Normalizada (SPI) uma maior periodicidade de secas, entretanto os eventos de chuvas foram mais intensos. Quando relacionados as classes dos eventos identificados com os tipos de ENOS, constatou-se que em anos de El Niño Canônico há uma maior possibilidade de ocorrência de chuvas extremas, assim como, em La Niña Canônica para as secas leves. Conclui-se que a associação entre o SPI e os tipos de ENOS mostrou-se relevante para os estudos de previsões climáticas podendo auxiliar os diferentes setores evitando os transtornos causados por extremos de precipitação.
Aplicação de metodologias distintas no comportamento pluviométrico de Maceió/AL
Authors: Lyra Matheus José Arruda , Bonfim Osmar Evandro Toledo , Januário Italo Ramon , Silva Yasmin Uchôa Da , Mesquita Gabriel Augusto Larramendi , Cavalcante Lucas Carvalho Vieira
Published: July 2019

As variações na precipitação refletem claramente a dinâmica atmosférica de uma determinada região. Tal conhecimento permite o auxílio na execução de atividades humanas como agricultura, monitoramento ambiental, defesa civil, entre outras. O objetivo deste estudo foi verificar os elementos climatológicos relacionados com o aumento/redução nos valores pluviométricos para a cidade de Maceió, no período de 1961 a 2015. As séries de dados de precipitação de duas estações próximas foram cedidas pelo Instituto Nacional de Meteorologia (INMET) e pela Usina Utinga Leão. A metodologia consistiu em utilizar o filtro paramétrico Hodrick-Prescott (HP) para detectar tendências na série de dados, o método de análise de ondeletas para verificar a influência de escalas temporais na precipitação de Maceió e ainda a utilização do Índice Multivariado de ENOS (IME) e o Índice da Oscilação Decadal do Pacífico (IPDO) para verificar a atuação das anomalias de Temperatura da Superfície do Mar (ATSM) na variabilidade do índice pluviométrico. A partir dos resultados, observou-se através da análise de tendência, uma redução na precipitação principalmente no início da década de 1980, e de forma mais acentuada no final da década de 1990. As ondeletas identificaram a influência da escala sazonal na precipitação local e por meio da associação dos índices IPDO e IME, constatou-se um aumento no número de eventos extremos de precipitação quando a Oscilação Decadal do Pacífico (ODP) se configura na fase fria e redução relativa do índice de precipitação quando o IME apresenta valores elevados. De modo geral o estudo detalhado do comportamento pluviométrico de Maceió aprimora o entendimento climático visando mitigar os possíveis impactos hidrometeorológicos, podendo auxiliar o planejamento urbano e ambiental da cidade.
Recommendation for cryptographic key generation
Authors: Barker Elaine , Roginsky Allen
Published: July 2019

Cryptography is often used in an information technology security environment to protect data that is sensitive, has a high value, or is vulnerable to unauthorized disclosure or undetected modification during transmission or while in storage. Cryptography relies upon two basic components: an algorithm (or cryptographic methodology) and a cryptographic key. This Recommendation discusses the generation of the keys to be managed and used by the approved cryptographic algorithms.
Les grèves de médecins en République Démocratique du Congo : quels repères éthiques généralisables?
Authors: Ravez Laurent Jean-Claude , Rennie Stuart , Yemesi Robert , Chalachala Jean-Lambert , Makindu Darius , Behets Frieda , Fox Albert , Kashamuka Melchior , Kayembé Patrick
Published: July 2019

Depuis plusieurs années, la République Démocratique du Congo est le théâtre de grèves menées par les médecins du pays. Les revendications des grévistes en question sont essentiellement financières et statutaires, et visent à faire pression sur le gouvernement. Dans ce pays, comme c’est le cas presque partout dans le monde, les grèves médicales sont autorisées. Tout travailleur a le droit de dénoncer par la grève des conditions de travail jugées inacceptables. Mais les médecins sont-ils des travailleurs comme les autres? N’ont-ils pas des obligations morales particulières liées aux spécificités de leur profession? Pour éclairer ces questions, les auteurs de cet article proposent trois repères moraux essentiels généralisables à des situations de grèves médicales ailleurs dans le monde. Le premier porte sur la reconnaissance du droit de grève pour les médecins, y compris pour des motifs strictement financiers. On ne peut demander à des professionnels de santé d’exercer leur métier dans des conditions de travail inhumaines ou sans un salaire permettant de faire vivre leur famille. Le deuxième repère estime que l’on ne peut pas accepter que ce droit de grève s’exerce en sacrifiant les patients les plus fragiles et en niant ainsi l’essence même de la profession médicale. Un troisième repère vient complexifier la réflexion en rappelant que l’extrême délabrement du système de santé congolais rend impossible l’organisation d’un service minimum de qualité en cas de grève. Pour sortir de ces difficultés, nous proposons une alliance thérapeutique nationale entre les médecins et les citoyens pour replacer les patients au centre des préoccupations du système de santé.