bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Importance of Punctuation Marks for Writing and Reading Comprehension Skills
Authors: Suliman Fatma , Ben- Ahmeida Manal , Mahalla Salma
Published: October 2019

This study aims to highlight the causes behind the misuse of punctuation marks in order to help Libyan students reduce committing less mistakes in both skills writing and reading. In addition, this current study investigates the relationship between writing and reading in terms of punctuations, it is restricted only to punctuation marks, not all the cohesive devices. A writing test and a reading passage is formulated to test Libyan university students’ ability in using punctuation marks as well as an interview is conducted to collect more accurate data. In this research paper, the participants are chosen according to Solven's formula using the qualitative descriptive study, results of this study, could provide solutions that may help to overcome punctuation problems, which many EFL students of the English Department, Faculty of Arts Misurata University face. Finally, the findings refer to the fact that Libyan students do suffer from dealing with punctuation mechanics continuously. Moreover, these findings can be used by teachers to improve students’ ability to acknowledge the effective use of punctuations and reduce their problem of misusing punctuation marks in both skills writing and reading. On the light of the findings, it is clear that they committed a large number of remarkable errors progressively, yet in this study, having students become aware of their punctuation mistakes, would possibly enhance and help students to improve their capability to write and read committing less errors. Additionally, their educational motivation and interaction have been turned out extremely higher.
Delineating Turkic non-finite verb forms by syntactic function
Authors: Washington Jonathan North , Tyers Francis Morton
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we argue against the primary categories of non-finite verb used in the Turkology literature: “participle” (причастие ‹pričastije›) and “converb” (деепричастие ‹dejepričastije›). We argue that both of these terms conflate several discrete phenomena, and that they furthermore are not coherent as umbrella terms for these phenomena. Based on detailed study of the non-finite verb morphology and syntax of a wide range of Turkic languages (presented here are Turkish, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, Tatar, Tuvan, and Sakha), we instead propose delineation of these categories according to their morphological and syntactic properties. Specifically, we propose that more accurate categories are verbal noun, verbal adjective, verbal adverb, and infinitive. This approach has far-reaching implications to the study of syntactic phenomena in Turkic languages, including phenomena ranging from relative clauses to clause chaining.
Subkiloparsec Imaging of Lyα Emission in a Low-mass, Highly Ionized, Gravitationally Lensed Galaxy at z = 1.84∗
Authors: Erb Dawn K. , Berg Danielle A. , Auger Matthew W. , Kaplan David L. , Brammer Gabriel , Pettini Max
Published: October 2019

Low-mass, low-metallicity galaxies at low to moderate (z ≲ 3) redshifts offer the best opportunity for detailed examination of the interplay between massive stars, ionizing radiation and gas in sources similar to those that likely reionized the universe. We present new narrowband Hubble Space Telescope observations of

emission and the adjacent ultraviolet (UV) continuum in the low-mass (M
⋆ = 2 × 108

), low-metallicity (Z ∼ 1/20 Z⊙), and highly ionized gravitationally lensed galaxy SL2S J02176−0513 at z = 1.844. The galaxy has strong

emission with photometric equivalent width

, at odds with the

escape fraction of 10%. However, the spectroscopic

profile suggests the presence of broad absorption underlying the emission, and the total equivalent width is consistent with the escape fraction once this underlying absorption is included. The

emission is more spatially extended than the UV continuum, and the 0.″14 spatial resolution of HST coupled with the magnification of gravitational lensing enables us to examine the distribution of

and the UV continuum on subkiloparsec scales. We find that the peaks of the

emission and the UV continuum are offset by 650 pc, and there is no

emission arising from the region with the strongest UV light. Our combined spectroscopic and imaging data imply a significant range in neutral hydrogen column density across the object. These observations offer indirect support for a model in which ionizing radiation escapes from galaxies through channels with low column density of neutral gas.
KFPA Examinations of Young STellar Object Natal Environments (KEYSTONE): Hierarchical Ammonia Structures in Galactic Giant Molecular Clouds
Authors: Keown Jared , Francesco James Di , Rosolowsky Erik , Singh Ayushi , Figura Charles , Kirk Helen , Anderson L. D. , Chen Michael Chun-Yuan , Elia Davide , Friesen Rachel , Ginsburg Adam , Marston A. , Pezzuto Stefano , Schisano Eugenio , Bontemps Sylvain , Caselli Paola , Liu Hong-Li , Longmore Steven , Motte Frédérique , Myers Philip C. , Offner Stella S. R. , Sanhueza Patricio , Schneider Nicola , Stephens Ian , Urquhart James ,   the KEYSTONE collaboration
Published: October 2019

We present initial results from the K-band Focal Plane Array Examinations of Young STellar Object Natal Environments survey, a large project on the 100 m Green Bank Telescope mapping ammonia emission across 11 giant molecular clouds at distances of 0.9–3.0 kpc (Cygnus X North, Cygnus X South, M16, M17, Mon R1, Mon R2, NGC 2264, NGC 7538, Rosette, W3, and W48). This data release includes the NH3 (1,1) and (2,2) maps for each cloud, which are modeled to produce maps of kinetic temperature, centroid velocity, velocity dispersion, and ammonia column density. Median cloud kinetic temperatures range from 11.4 ± 2.2 K in the coldest cloud (Mon R1) to 23.0 ± 6.5 K in the warmest cloud (M17). Using dendrograms on the NH3 (1,1) integrated intensity maps, we identify 856 dense gas clumps across the 11 clouds. Depending on the cloud observed, 40%–100% of the clumps are aligned spatially with filaments identified in H2 column density maps derived from spectral energy distribution fitting of dust continuum emission. A virial analysis reveals that 523 of the 835 clumps (∼63%) with mass estimates are bound by gravity alone. We find no significant difference between the virial parameter distributions for clumps aligned with the dust-continuum filaments and those unaligned with filaments. In some clouds, however, hubs or ridges of dense gas with unusually high mass and low virial parameters are located within a single filament or at the intersection of multiple filaments. These hubs and ridges tend to host water maser emission, multiple 70 μm detected protostars, and have masses and radii above an empirical threshold for forming massive stars.
Renewal of Transient Spiral Modes in Disk Galaxies
Authors: Sridhar S.
Published: October 2019

Spiral structure in disk galaxies could arise from transient modes that create conditions conducive for their regeneration; this is the proposal of Sellwood and Carlberg, based on simulations of stellar disks. The linear response of an axisymmetric stellar disk, to an adiabatic nonaxisymmetric transient mode, gives a final distribution function (DF) that is equal to the initial DF everywhere in phase space, except at the Lindblad and corotation resonances where the final DF is singular. We use the nonlinear theory of adiabatic capture into resonance to resolve the singularities and calculate the finite changes in the DF. These take the form of axisymmetric “scars” concentrated around resonances, whose DFs have simple general forms. Global changes in the physical properties are explored for a cool Mestel disk: we calculate the DFs of scars and estimate the changes in the disk angular momentum, surface density, and orbital frequencies leading to shifts in resonances. Resonant torques between disk stars and any new linear nonaxisymmetric mode are suppressed within a scar, as is epicyclic heating. Because all resonances of a linear mode with the same angular wavenumber and pattern speed as its precursor lie inside the scars of the precursor, it suffers less damping. Hence, scars filter the spectrum of noise-generated modes, promoting the renewal of a few select modes. Relic scars sustained by a galaxy disk, due to past tidal interaction with a passing companion, may still be active enablers of nonaxisymmetric modes, such as the two-armed “grand design” spiral patterns.
Multi-TeV Flaring from High-energy Blazars: An Evidence of the Photohadronic Process
Authors: Sahu Sarira , López Fortín Carlos E. , Nagataki Shigehiro
Published: October 2019

High-energy peaked blazars are known to undergo episodes of flaring in GeV–TeV gamma-rays involving different timescales. This flaring mechanism is not well understood, despite long-term simultaneous multiwavelength observations. These gamma-rays en route to Earth undergo attenuation by the extragalactic background light. Using the photohadronic model, where the seed photons follow a power-law spectrum and a template extragalactic background light model, we derive a simple relation between the observed multi-TeV gamma-ray flux and the intrinsic flux with a single parameter. We study 42 flaring epochs of 23 blazars and excellent fits to most of the observed spectra are obtained, strengthening the photohadronic origin of multi-TeV gamma-rays. We can also constrain the power spectrum of the seed photons during the flaring period. Stringent bounds on the blazars of unknown redshifts, whose multi-TeV flaring spectra are known, can be placed using the photohadronic model.
Where Are the Electromagnetic-wave Counterparts of Stellar-mass Binary Black Hole Mergers?
Authors: Yi Shu-Xu , Cheng K. S.
Published: October 2019

Multimessenger astronomy, combining gravitational-wave (GW) and electromagnetic-wave (EM) observations, has a huge impact on physics, astrophysics, and cosmology. However, the majority of sources detected with currently running ground-based GW observatories are binary black hole (BBH) mergers, which disappointingly were expected to have no EM counterparts. In this Letter, we propose that if a BBH merger happens in a gaseous disk around a supermassive black hole, the merger can be accompanied by a transient radio flare like a fast radio burst (FRB). We argue that the total mass and the effective spin derived from GW detection can be used to distinguish such a source from other channels of BBH mergers. If this prediction is confirmed with future observations, multimessenger astronomy can be greatly improved. The mystery of the origin of FRBs could also be revealed partially.
A Break in Spiral Galaxy Scaling Relations at the Upper Limit of Galaxy Mass
Authors: Ogle Patrick M. , Jarrett Thomas , Lanz Lauranne , Cluver Michelle , Alatalo Katherine , Appleton Philip N. , Mazzarella Joseph M.
Published: October 2019

Super spirals are the most massive star-forming disk galaxies in the universe. We measured rotation curves for 23 massive spirals with the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT) and found a wide range of fast rotation speeds (240–570 km s−1), indicating enclosed dynamical masses of (0.6−4) × 1012
M
⊙. Super spirals with mass in stars

log

M

stars

/

M

⊙

>
11.5

break from the baryonic Tully–Fisher relation (BTFR) established for lower-mass galaxies. The BTFR power-law index breaks from 3.75 ± 0.11 to 0.25 ± 0.41 above a rotation speed of ∼340 km s−1. Super spirals also have very high specific angular momenta that break from the Fall relation. These results indicate that super spirals are undermassive for their dark matter halos, limited to a mass in stars of

log

M

stars

/

M

⊙

<
11.8

. Most giant elliptical galaxies also obey this fundamental limit, which corresponds to a critical dark halo mass of

log

M

halo

/

M

⊙

≃
12.7

. Once a halo reaches this mass, its gas can no longer cool and collapse in a dynamical time. Super spirals survive today in halos as massive as

log

M

halo

/

M

⊙

≃
13.6

, continuing to form stars from the cold baryons they captured before their halos reached critical mass. The observed high-mass break in the BTFR is inconsistent with the Modified Newtonian Dynamics theory.
Torus Constraints in ANEPD-CXO245: A Compton-thick AGN with Double-peaked Narrow Lines
Authors: Miyaji Takamitsu , Herrera-Endoqui Martín , Krumpe Mirko , Hanzawa Masaki , Shogaki Ayano , Matsuura Shuji , Tanimoto Atsushi , Ueda Yoshihiro , Ishigaki Tsuyoshi , Barrufet Laia , Brunner Hermann , Matsuhara Hideo , Goto Tomotsugu , Takagi Toshinobu , Pearson Chris , Burgarella Denis , Oi Nagisa , Malkan Matthew , Toba Yoshiki , White Glenn J. , Hanami Hitoshi
Published: October 2019

We report on the torus constraints of the Compton-thick active galactic nucleus (AGN) with double-peaked optical narrow-line region emission lines, ANEPD-CXO245, at z = 0.449 in the AKARI NEP Deep Field. The unique infrared data on this field, including those from the nine-band photometry over 2–24 μm with the AKARI Infrared Camera, and the X-ray spectrum from Chandra allow us to constrain torus parameters such as the torus optical depth, X-ray absorbing column, torus angular width (σ), and viewing angle (i). We analyze the X-ray spectrum as well as the UV–optical–infrared spectral energy distribution (UOI-SED) with clumpy torus models in X-ray (XCLUMPY) and infrared (CLUMPY), respectively. From our current data, the constraints on σ–i from both X-rays and UOI show that the line of sight crosses the torus as expected for a type 2 AGN. We obtain a small X-ray scattering fraction (<0.1%), which suggests narrow torus openings, giving preference to the bipolar outflow picture of the double-peaked profile. Comparing the optical depth of the torus from the UOI-SED and the absorbing column density N
H from the X-ray spectrum, we find that the gas-to-dust ratio is ≳4 times larger than the Galactic value.
Observed Local Dispersion Relations for Magnetoacoustic-gravity Waves in the Sun’s Atmosphere: Mapping the Acoustic Cutoff Frequency
Authors: Jefferies Stuart M. , Fleck Bernhard , Murphy Neil , Berrilli Francesco
Published: October 2019

We present the observed local dispersion relations for magnetoacoustic-gravity waves in the Sun’s atmosphere for different levels of magnetic field strength. We model these data with a theoretical local dispersion relation to produce spatial maps of the acoustic cutoff frequency in the Sun’s photosphere. These maps have implications for the mechanical heating of the Sun’s upper atmosphere, by magnetoacoustic-gravity waves, at different phases of the solar magnetic activity cycle.
Aplicação da ferramenta SERVQUAL: a influência do perfil do cliente na percepção da qualidade
Authors: Silva Luana Moraes , Nogueira Rodrigo Bíscaro , De Oliveira João Marcos , Arraes Christiano Luna
Published: October 2019

O trabalho aborda a análise e a quantificação da satisfação sob a perspectiva dos clientes de três panificadoras do município de Itacoatiara-AM em relação a qualidade dos serviços prestados, identificando as dimensões da qualidade e os principais problemas na visão dos clientes. A ferramenta utilizada para o planejamento da aplicação, análise e tratamento dos dados foi o SERVQUAL, proposta inicialmente por Parasuraman, Zeithaml e Berry (BARRETO et al, 2012). Para isso, aplicou-se um questionário com 24 questões (22 parâmetros da qualidade) em amostras aleatórias de no mínimo 100 clientes para cada panificadora. Além da aplicação do Servqual, analisou-se a influência dos parâmetros da qualidade nos serviços em relação a faixa etária e nível de escolaridade dos clientes. O trabalho permitiu encontrar os maiores GAP’s entre as percepções e as expectativas dos clientes, dentre os quais a dimensão da qualidade tangibilidade (acessibilidade do estacionamento) apresentou o menor valor, ou seja, maior insatisfação dos clientes em relação ao esperado na prestação dos serviços. Pôde-se também comparar os resultados entre as três panificadoras, identificando diferenças significativas entre a faixa etária e a escolaridade dos clientes e a influência desses parâmetros nas suas expectativas e percepções. O coeficiente Alfa de Cronbach atou na medição da validade dos questionários. O estudo identificou os pontos críticos relacionados à qualidade nos serviços, possibilitando propor melhorias para os empreendimentos.
Gestâo de estoque por meio do MRP: um estudo de caso em uma metalúrgica de Maringá-Pr
Authors: De genaro Chiroli Daiane Maria , Valério Karen De Oliveira
Published: October 2019

No mercado atual onde os consumidores exigem cada vez mais qualidade e maior agilidade na entrega de seus fornecedores, possuir um adequado planejamento e programação da produção se torna mais que necessário, se torna essencial para a sobrevivência de uma empresa no mercado tão competitivo. Este trabalho aborda a implementação de um sistema de gestão de estoques por meio do Planejamento de Necessidades de Materiais em metalúrgica na cidade de Maringá, com a finalidade de diminuir os atrasos nas entregas das ordens de produção e realizar um planejamento das compras de matérias-primas para atender as demandas dos clientes sem atrasos. Através da análise da demanda mensal dos produtos e de sua organização em estrutura foi possível visualizar todos os componentes e matérias-primas necessárias para a sua produção. Esses dados serviram como base para o planejamento e a programação das compras dos materiais e da produção dos produtos, desde a liberação das ordens planejadas, recebimentos das ordens, controle do estoque, até o acompanhamento da demanda semanal do produto, contribuindo assim, para um processo produtivo sólido e otimizado. Foram obtidos como resultados a diminuição dos estoques de matérias-primas, o aumento da produtividade por meio da redução das paradas de produção devido à falta de materiais e a redução nos atrasos das entregas das ordens de produção.
Uma análise multicritério dos indicadores de liquidez e rentabilidade de empresas brasileiras da construção civil
Authors: Simão Alessandra Dos Santos , Alcoforado Luciane Ferreira , Longo Orlando Celso , Dos Santos Danillo Araújo , Dos Santos Fabio
Published: October 2019

A pesquisa objetiva definir o ranking das empresas do setor de construção civil listadas na BM&FBovespa baseado nos indicadores de liquidez e rentabilidade com o método Analytic Hierarchy Process, AHP Multiplicativo. Metodologicamente, A pesquisa classifica-se como descritiva, exploratória, documental e quantitativa. Para a análise foram coletados os dados das demonstrações financeiras: Balanço Patrimonial e Demonstração do Resultado do Exercício (DRE), extraídos do site da Comissão de Valores Mobiliários (CVM) e analisados usando-se o Método AHP Multiplicativo para estabelecer os rankings anuais e geral. Constatou-se que nos indicadores de liquidez, destacam-se as empresas: Adolpho Lindenberg (em 2010, 2012 e 2013), Rossi (2014 e 2015) e Even (em 2011). Já nos indicadores de rentabilidade, se destacam as empresas Rossi (em 2010, 2011 e 2013), Brookfield (em 2012), Tecnisa (em 2014) e Rodobens (em 2015). Com os resultados, elaborou-se um ranking geral em relação ao período analisado, destacando-se em primeiro lugar a Adolpho Lindenberg e em segundo a empresa Rossi. Os resultados corroboram com Assaf Neto e Lima (2014), que esclarece que a empresa pode possuir boa capacidade de liquidar suas obrigações, contudo não necessariamente apresentará o mesmo potencial de rentabilidade, ou seja, a empresa pode não usufruir de bom resultado econômico.
Logística reversa: estratégia para redução de custos com reuso de paletes em uma cooperativa agroindustrial
Authors: Gasques Ana Carla Fernandes , Carvalho Bruno Alexandre Nascimento de , Grigio Carlos Henrique Bulla , Capioto Guilherme Rotta , Salvador Victor Hugo
Published: October 2019

A logística permite uma visão integrada das atividades desenvolvidas dentro de uma empresa, englobando os aspectos de planejamento, implementação e controle de procedimentos envolvidos nos processos de compra, estocagem e transporte até o cliente. Seguindo o fluxo inverso, a logística reversa busca agregar valor aos produtos que serão devolvidos para as empresas, sendo utilizada como estratégia competitiva. Diante disto, o objetivo deste artigo é caracterizar a logística reversa de paletes em uma cooperativa agroindustrial evidenciando a quantidade reutilizada bem como avaliando o potencial da prática na redução de custos do setor. Para tal, a metodologia é classificada como aplicada, qualitativa, explicativa e estudo de caso. As informações foram obtidas através do sistema ERP utilizado na cooperativa e permitiu verificar a quantidade de paletes que não retornam à empresa, identificou-se, então, os principais clientes e analisou a viabilidade de se aplicar a logística reversa. Constatou-se que o retorno financeiro neste caso seria de aproximadamente R$176.000,00, que poderia ser revertido em melhorias na própria cooperativa. Além da questão financeira, a aplicação da logística reversa de paletes seria uma forma de aumentar a competitividade e imagem perante os clientes.
Otimização de cortes bidimensionais em chapas através da aplicação de modelos matemáticos
Authors: Moura Cassiano Rodrigues , Krsyscyk José Vitor , Ulbricht Gerson , Chagas Gil Magno Portal
Published: October 2019

Neste trabalho são apresentados dois modelos matemáticos de otimização com a finalidade de minimizar o desperdício de material no processo de corte de chapas, sendo um modelo com a prática de utilização de estoque e outro sem estoque (com a demanda exata). No primeiro momento foram encontrados manualmente vinte diferentes padrões de cortes e conforme a demanda pré-estabelecida foram selecionados quais padrões e suas respectivas quantidades deveriam ser utilizadas em cada teste. Para validar qual o melhor modelo matemático entre os dois desenvolvidos, quatro instâncias de teste foram realizadas com cinco testes em cada instância e com valores de demanda criados aleatoriamente. Os testes demonstraram que o modelo matemático sem a prática do estoque foi menos eficiente, em alguns casos apenas igualando-se ao outro modelo criado, porém para algumas aplicações específicas, a prática do estoque não é vantajosa. Isto ocorre com o modelo sem estoque principalmente porque o programa precisa utilizar padrões de corte com alta taxa de desperdício para atender a demanda exata estabelecida, diminuindo a possibilidade de gerar menos desperdício. O trabalho foi inspirado no corte de chapas na indústria, mas o modelo pode ser implementado em qualquer ramo onde haja a necessidade de melhorar o processo produtivo, sendo os dois modelos utilizados como uma ferramenta que auxilia na tomada de decisões nos processos de cortes.
The role of ant nests in European ground squirrel’s (Spermophilus citellus) post-reintroduction adaptation in two Bulgarian mountains
Authors: Kachamakova Maria , Antonova Vera , Koshev Yordan
Published: October 2019

The European ground squirrel (Spermophilus citellus) is a vulnerable species, whose populations are declining throughout its entire range in Central and South-Eastern Europe. To a great extent, its conservation depends on habitat restoration, maintenance and protection. In order to improve the conservation status of the species, reintroductions are increasingly applied. Therefore, researchers focus their attention on factors that facilitate these activities and contribute to their success. In addition to the well-known factors like grass height and exposition, others, related to the underground characteristics, are more difficult to evaluate. The presence of other digging species could help this evaluation. Here, we present two reintroduced ground squirrel colonies, where the vast majority of the burrows are located in the base of anthills, mainly of yellow meadow ant (Lasius flavus). This interspecies relationship offers numerous advantages for the ground squirrel and is mostly neutral for the ants. The benefits for the ground squirrel, including reduced energy demand for digging, as well as additional surveillance and hiding places available, could greatly enhance the post-reintroduction adaptation process.
Triamcinolone Acetonide as an Adjuvant in the Surgical Treatment of Retinal Detachment With Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy
Authors: Cheema Rizwan A. , Peyman Gholam A. , Fang Ting , Jones Andrew , Lukaris Andrew D. , Lim Kim
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE To report the efficacy of intravitreal triamcinolone acetonide as an adjuvant in the surgical management of cases with advanced proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with complicated rhegmatogenous retinal detachment and PVR grade C2 or greater were recruited for this interventional, noncomparative, prospective study. All patients underwent three-port pars plana vitrectomy, membrane peeling, laser photocoagulation, and silicone oil injection to reattach the retina followed by 0.1 mL (4 mg) of triamcinolone acetonide injected through the pars plana into the silicone oil. All patients had supplemental laser therapy around retinal breaks and retinectomy edges at 1 to 2 weeks postoperatively. RESULTS Patients included 15 males and 9 females, with an average age of 53.6 years (range: 15 to 84 years) and PVR grade C2 to PVR C9. The mean follow-up period was 11.0 months (range: 3 to 26 months). Twenty-one (87.5%) patients had attached retinas at the final followup visit. Visual acuity improved in all patients following surgery (P < .05). CONCLUSION Triamcinolone acetonide may have potential as an adjuvant in the treatment of retinal detachment with PVR. Further research is required to evaluate the efficacy of this adjuvant treatment. [Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2007;38:365- 370.] AUTHORS From the Cardiff Eye Unit (RAC, AJ, ADL, KL), University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, United Kingdom; the Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science (GAP), University of Arizona College of Medicine, Tucson, Arizona; and South Texas Eye Consultants (TF), Corpus Christi, Texas. Accepted for publication November 20, 2006. Address correspondence to Gholam A. Peyman, MD, Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Science, University of Arizona College of Medicine, 655 North Alvernon Way, Suite 108, Tucson, AZ 85711.
Diode Laser-Induced Mitosis in the Rabbit Retinal Pigment Epithelium
Authors: Colome Jorge , Ruiz-Moreno Jose M. , Montero Javier A. , Fernandez Eduardo
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE
The induction of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) proliferation without damaging the inner layers of the retina might be helpful in patients with RPE atrophic changes and degeneration. This study aimed to induce mitosis in the RPE of the rabbit after subthreshold photocoagulation with the diode laser.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Twenty-five male Dutch rabbits received retinal photocoagulation using an 810-nm diode laser with different power settings and exposure times. The eyes were processed for light microscopy, electron transmission microscopy, and immunohistochemistry.
RESULTS
Neither morphological alterations nor mitotic activity was found after 5-mJ energies. Retinal layers were not affected and RPE hyperplasia appeared in the treated areas associated with mitotic activity when 10 mJ was used. Mitosis induction and retinal damage appeared with 20, 50, and 100 mJ and were associated with ophthalmoscopic damage.
CONCLUSIONS
The use of subthreshold 810-nm diode laser treatment may induce mitosis in the RPE without causing damage to the neighboring layers.
[Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging 2007;38:484-490.]

AUTHORS
From the Department of Ophthalmology (JC, JMR-M), Miguel Hernández University School of Medicine; VISSUM (JMR-M, JAM), Vitreo-Retinal Unit; and the Department of Histology and Anatomy (EF), Miguel Hernández
University School of Medicine, Alicante, Spain.
Accepted for publication June 28, 2007.
Presented at the 1st Ophthalmologic Investigation Meeting, Valencia, Spain, November 22-23, 2002.
Address correspondence to Javier A. Montero, MD, Instituto Oftalmológico de Alicante, Avenida de Denia 111, 03015 Alicante, Spain.
Illuminated Curved Vitrectomy Probe for Vitreoretinal Surgery
Authors: Chalam K. V. , Gupta Shailesh K. , Agarwal Swati
Published: October 2019

A new self-illuminated and curved vitrectomy probe was designed for better accessibility of the peripheral retina, particularly in phakic patients. This probe has a 20-gauge pneumatic cutter. The curvature at the shaft has a 19.4-mm radius and is 25 mm long. A 2.5-cm piece of polyethylene terephthalate tubing (heat-shrink tubing) is threaded over both the probe and the 0.5-mm diameter fiberoptic light source to assemble the illuminated probe. Use of this instrument avoids inadvertent
trauma to the clear lens in phakic eyes and allows the surgeon to illuminate the anterior vitreous with one hand while the other hand can be used to depress the sclera. This instrument complements wide-angle viewing for safe and quick surgical treatment of peripheral retinal pathology in phakic patients. [Ophthalmic
Surg Lasers Imaging 2007;38:525-526].
AUTHORS
From the Department of Ophthalmology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Jacksonville, Florida.
Accepted for publication November 17, 2005.
Address correspondence to K. V. Chalam, MD, PhD, University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Ophthalmology, 580 West 8th Street, Tower 2, 3rd Floor, Jacksonville, FL 32209.
Comparison Between Ultra-Widefield Pseudocolor Imaging and Indirect Ophthalmoscopy in the Detection of Peripheral Retinal Lesions
Authors: Fogliato Giovanni , Borrelli Enrico , Iuliano Lorenzo , Ramoni Andrea , Querques Lea , Rabiolo Alessandro , Bandello Francesco , Querques Giuseppe
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To systematically compare the intermodality and inter-rater agreement for indirect ophthalmoscopy and ultra-widefield (UWF) imaging in detecting peripheral retinal lesions predisposing to retinal rhegmatogenous detachment.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

In this prospective, observational, cross-sectional study, patients with a previous diagnosis of peripheral retinal lesions were enrolled. UWF pseudocolor imaging and dilated fundus examination were obtained.

RESULTS:

Thirty-seven eyes (20 patients, 12 females) were enrolled. The level of inter-rater agreement was excellent in both the ophthalmoscopy-based and UWF-based assessment. The overall agreement in the UWF-based assessment was found to be Kappa = 0.874 (
P
< .0001). The UWF-based evaluation was demonstrated to have a sensitivity of 89.2% in detecting peripheral retinal lesions. In the sectorial analysis, the UWF-based reading had a lower sensitivity in the inferior sector.

CONCLUSION:

The identification of peripheral retinal lesions with UWF imaging allowed for an accurate and reproducible assessment.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2019;50:544–549.]
Quantifying Choriocapillaris Flow Voids in Patients With Geographic Atrophy Using Swept-Source OCT Angiography
Authors: Rinella Nicholas T. , Zhou Hao , Zhang Qinqin , Keiner Cathrine , Oldenburg Catherine E. , Duncan Jacque L. , Wang Ruikang K. , Schwartz Daniel M.
Published: October 2019

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To compare choriocapillaris (CC) flow voids (FVs) throughout the macula in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and geographic atrophy (GA) to age-similar controls using swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

In this cross-sectional study, 12 subjects with GA secondary to nonexudative AMD and 12 age-similar controls participated. SS-OCTA was performed using a 6 mm × 6 mm scanning pattern. CC FVs were calculated using a one-standard deviation thresholding method developed from a normal database.

RESULTS:

CC FVs were significantly increased in patients with GA compared with age-similar controls (
P
< .001). FVs within 2° of GA were significantly increased compared with the area outside 2° (
P
< .001). FVs beyond 2° of GA were significantly increased compared with age-similar controls (
P
< .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

FV analysis of in vivo CC images revealed diffuse CC perfusion deficits throughout the macular region in subjects with GA secondary to nonexudative AMD.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2019;50:e229–e235.]
Macular Hole Following Subretinal Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Submacular Hemorrhage Secondary to Neovascular AMD
Authors: Obeid Anthony , Talcott Katherine E. , Ali Ferhina S. , Gao Xinxiao , Sioufi Kareem , Wibbelsman Turner D. , Ho Allen C.
Published: October 2019

A full-thickness macular hole (FTMH) is a rare sequela to submacular hemorrhage. Herein, the authors report a case of an 80-year-old man actively being treated for neovascular age-related macular degeneration who presented with sudden vision loss in the right eye. Examination with optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging revealed submacular hemorrhage. The patient underwent vitrectomy with subretinal tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) with no intraoperative complications. Dilated fundus examination and OCT imaging revealed a FTMH at postop week 1. Possible causes for MH development include the submacular hemorrhage itself and subretinal administration of the tPA infusion.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2019;50:e257–e259.]
La crisis hipotecaria: impactos y respuestas sociales en Cataluña
Authors: Bereményi Bálint Ábel , Sabaté Muriel Irene
Published: October 2019

Desde el estallido en 2008 de la burbuja inmobiliaria y financiera, el sobreendeudamiento hipotecario representa una preocupación para muchas familias españolas y catalanas, en un contexto de «nueva pobreza» caracterizada por el desempleo masivo y por unas políticas de austeridad que han conducido a muchas personas a la exclusión social. La pérdida de la vivienda tiene impacto sobre las relaciones sociales y condiciona tanto las estrategias socioeconómicas como las interpretaciones culturales del endeudamiento, en términos de estigma y de negación de una segunda oportunidad vital. Las realidades analizadas en el contexto de esta emergencia habitacional están marcadas por la amenaza del sinhogarismo, pero también por la oportunidad de la participación en un movimiento colectivo. Desde una aproximación etnográfica, los textos exploran, por una parte, la condición del endeudamiento y su impacto en las personas, y, por otra, las funciones ideológicas, políticas y socio-afectivas de un movimiento social en desarrollo.
Entre el banco, la casa y la PAH: una visión de la cotidianeidad en crisis a través de la lucha de las personas afectadas en Bonavista (Barcelona)
Authors: Azis Georgios
Published: October 2019

La gran recesión del 2008 fue un evento singular en la historia reciente del Estado español. El “pinchazo” de la burbuja inmobiliaria y la destrucción masiva de empleo que trajo consigo pusieron de manifiesto la crisis profunda del capitalismo hispano. En Bonavista el paro y la consiguiente incapacidad de la gente trabajadora para pagar su deuda hipotecaria dieron lugar al ejercicio de una presión asfixiante por parte del sector financiero y a una reconfiguración de la cotidianeidad de las personas afectadas, que tuvieron que subordinar las relaciones sociales y la dedicación que hace falta para mantenerlas y para aumentarlas a la lógica de la expropiación de riqueza. En este contexto, la Plataforma de Afectados por la Hipoteca (PAH) surge como un refugio donde las personas afectadas reclaman la primacía de sus proyectos de vida frente a la pretendida hegemonía de la banca.
Sobrendeudamiento, ejecuciones hipotecarias y cuestionamiento de la legitimidad de las deudas
Authors: Sabaté Muriel Irene
Published: October 2019

Como consecuencia de la crisis económica, inmobiliaria y financiera experimentada en España en los últimos años, muchos deudores hipotecarios no pueden hacer frente a sus cuotas y corren el riesgo de perder sus viviendas, en ocasiones conservando una deuda imposible de afrontar. El sobrendeudamiento y la morosidad hipotecaria abocan así a ciertas economías domésticas a situaciones insostenibles que pueden llevar a una reordenación de los gastos y necesidades, entre los que las cuotas hipotecarias dejan de tener prioridad. La legitimación de la condición de moroso que puede observarse en esos casos es un fenómeno con importantes implicaciones antropológicas, en la medida en que constituye un cuestionamiento de la obligación de devolver el préstamo. Desde el punto de vista de los deudores y de quienes les brindan apoyo, caer en el impago, lejos de constituir una transgresión moralmente reprobable, puede entenderse como un acto de responsabilidad que tiende al sostenimiento de la vida.
La desobediencia civil en la campaña La Obra Social de la PAH
Authors: Pera Ros Marina
Published: October 2019

Este artículo analiza los factores que llevaron a personas sin activismo político previo a participar en la campaña del movimiento de la Plataforma de Afectados por la Hipoteca (PAH) la obra social de la PAH. El contexto del estudio es la crisis hipotecaria, con más de 580.000 ejecuciones hipotecarias en el Estado español entre 2009 y 2015. A través del análisis de entrevistas semi-estructuradas, los resultados muestran cómo los interlocutores construyen un relato legitimador de la desobediencia civil como última opción en una serie de protestas por el derecho a la vivienda. Haber sido desahuciado, no tener dónde vivir y la incapacidad del Estado para ofrecer vivienda social son algunas de las razones justificativas expuestas por los entrevistados. Al final suelen mostrar su voluntad de cumplir con las obligaciones ciudadanas y pagar un alquiler social según sus ingresos.
Objetos desobedientes: escraches y la lucha por la vivienda en la PAH
Authors: Suárez Maka
Published: October 2019

Este artículo describe la cultura material de la campaña de escraches, un tipo específico de activismo performativo implementado por la Plataforma de Afectados por la Hipoteca (PAH) con el fin de presionar a la clase política para cambiar la ley hipotecaria española. A partir del análisis de los círculos gigantes de cartón utilizados por la PAH en los escraches, se estudia cómo estos objetos tienen la capacidad de replantear el espacio y el tiempo de la política. A partir del material etnográfico que se presenta, el artículo indica cómo se elaboran y cómo se usan estos círculos para teorizar sobre la noción de objeto desobediente. De este modo, el trabajo se centra en tres aspectos: cómo los círculos convocan diferentes actores y audiencias, su papel en tanto herramientas políticas que subvierten la narrativa oficial de la crisis financiera, y su rol como elementos clave para cuestionar la moralidad de la deuda hipotecaria y del endeudamiento.
Valoración y confianza de los espectadores de los programas de salud de TVE
Authors: Cano-Orón Lorena , Portalés Oliva Marta
Published: October 2019

Televisión Española (TVE) ha hecho posible la divulgación de temas médicos en la temporada de 2016 a través de los cuatro programas especializados en salud: Saber vivir, Centro médico, Esto es vida y El ojo clínico. Con el objetivo de conocer mejor su recepción por parte de los telespectadores, este estudio analiza, por un lado, los datos oficiales de audimetría y, por otro, los de una encuesta lanzada a través de las redes sociales. Con el cuestionario, al que han respondido 158 seguidores de los programas, se ha medido la valoración y la confianza que los espectadores otorgan al tratamiento informativo y audiovisual de estos programas. Esta investigación se corresponde con la segunda fase de un proyecto más amplio en el que previamente se han estudiado los contenidos de los programas televisivos y su comunicación digital a través de Twitter.
La expresión de juicios morales en sociedades democráticas
Authors: Barraca Mairal Javier
Published: October 2019

Esta investigación reflexiona en torno a la eticidad de la expresión de juicios morales en sociedades democráticas. Distingue esta de la moralidad de las conductas y juicios éticos para centrarse en las manifestaciones de tales juicios. Revisa diversos elementos: la relación de las aseveraciones morales con los sujetos, su atenerse o no a determinadas formalidades, los efectos o consecuencias de las mismas, etc. Remarca la hoy olvidada importancia de considerar los contenidos específicos de los juicios morales expresados y su relación con los valores éticos. Se concluye que ninguno de los elementos considerados puede decidir por sí solo la conveniencia de la expresión de un juicio moral. Recomienda la integración armónica de estos aspectos, al evaluar la pertinencia de la manifestación externa de nuestros juicios de moralidad. Reivindica hondamente el decir moral, pues este revela al sujeto en su unicidad y diferencia ante los otros, conectando con la raíz misma de la ética.
An Artificial Neural Network Based Early Prediction of Failure-Prone Students in Blended Learning Course
Authors: Sukhbaatar Otgontsetseg , Usagawa Tsuyoshi , Choimaa Lodoiravsal
Published: October 2019

One of the objectives of the performance measurement of grade-based higher education is to reduce the failure rate of students. To identify and reduce the number of failing students, the learning activities and behaviors of students in the classroom must be continuously monitored; however, monitoring a large number of students is an extremely difficult task. A penetration of web-based learning systems in academic institutions revealed the possibility of evaluating student activities via these systems. In this paper, we propose an early prediction scheme to identify students at risk of failing in a blended learning course. We employ a neural network on the set of prediction variables extracted from the online learning activities of students in a learning management system. The experiments were based on data from 1110 student who attended a compulsory, sophomore-level course. The results indicate that a neural-network-based approach can achieve early identification of students that are likely to fail; 25% of the failing students were correctly identified after the first quiz submission. After the mid-term examination, 65% of the failing students were correctly predicted.
A Mobile Social and Communication Tool for Autism
Authors: Mohammad Heba , Abu-Amara Fadi
Published: October 2019

Autism is a complex neurobiological disorder that is prevalence worldwide. Most autistic children have weak communication and social skills. This re-searches aims to develop and test a mobile application, named MyVoice, which supports local autistic children. The proposed design and features are discussed, and a prototype is evaluated and tested by two therapists and an autistic child. Experimental results indicate positive feedback in terms of ease of use, aesthetic, and simplicity. Parents of the autistic child are satisfied with different features such as the alert notification. Results also indicate that autistic children need about one week to easily interact with MyVoice.
Measuring Students Scientific Learning Perception and Critical Thinking Skill Using Paper-Based Testing: School and Gender Differences
Authors: Sari Rima Meilita , Sumarmi Sumarmi , Astina I Komang , Utomo Dwiyono Hari , Ridhwan Ridhwan
Published: October 2019

This study aims to describe and test students' perception of scientific learning, students' critical thinking skill level in scientific learning, differences in perception and critical thinking skill level of students based on school differences and gender, and the influence of perception on students' critical thinking skill in scientific approach learning. It involved 206 students from three high schools in Banjarmasin, Indonesia. Quantitative data was obtained from a perception questionnaire and critical thinking skill test. The perception questionnaire refers to Perception of Science Classes Survey (PSCS). The test used refers to indicators of critical thinking skill from Ennis in 2011. Data were analyzed using non parametric statistical tests with the SPSS version 23 application for Windows. The results showed that 1) students' perception of scientific learning were in the medium category, 2) students' critical thinking skill level was in a low category, 3) there were differences in perception and critical thinking skill level based on school, but there are not any differences found based on gender, 4) there was an influence of perception towards students' critical thinking skill in scientific learning approach. Designing innovative learning methods, involving student activity, and providing recommend-ed learning facilities are suggested to do to enhance students' positive perception and critical thinking skill.
Using Open-Source Software for Sign Language Learning and Assessment
Authors: Haug Tobias , Ebling Sarah
Published: October 2019

This study reports on the use of an open-source software for sign language learning and (self-)assessment. A Yes/No vocabulary size test for Swiss German Sign Language (Deutschschweizerische Gebärdensprache, DSGS) was developed, targeting beginning adult learners. The Web-based test, which can be used for self-assessment or placement purposes, was administered to 20 DSGS adult learners of ages 24 to 55 (M = 39.3). The learners filled out a background questionnaire, took the Yes/No test tests, and filled out a feedback questionnaire. The comments provided by the learners about the suitability of the Web-based DSGS vocabulary self-assessment instrument provided concrete feedback towards improvement of the system.
Dropout Situation of Business Computer Students, University of Phayao
Authors: Nuankaew Pratya
Published: October 2019

This paper aims to study the problem of the dropout situation of students in the business computer program at the University of Phayao. It consists of three sub-goals: 1) identifying the factors, 2) studying the relationship of factors, and 3) testing the relationship model. Data collected 389 students from the Department of Business Computer at University of Phayao from the academic year 2012-2019.
The tools used in the research are statistical data analysis and machine learning. It consists of percentages, decision tree algorithms, cross-validation methods, and the confusion matrix performance. The results showed that the dropout rate of learners in business computer program tended to increase even though the number of new students decreased. In addition, it was found that factors affecting the dropout consisted of seven courses: 221110, 221120, 001103, 128221, 005171, 122130 and 128221.
The model obtained as a high performance level of prediction with accuracy is equal to 87.21%. Based on the research results, the researcher found that the academic results had a significant influence on dropout, which were mostly obvious with the students in their first academic year.
Het Fontainasplein als grensruimte. De productie van de stad tegen de achtergrond van geaardheid, gender, etniciteit en sociale klasse
Authors: Donnen Alexandre
Published: October 2019

Het Fontainasplein, gelegen tussen de “volkswijk” Anneessens en de “homowijk”, was het toneel van verschillende vermeende homofobe incidenten, die ertoe bijdragen dat het plein wordt gecategoriseerd als een onveilige ruimte, vooral voor homoseksuelen. Als reactie op dit soort geweld heeft de overheid al heel wat maatregelen getroffen, maar zij slaagt er vooralsnog niet in een vaak binaire en essentialiserende veiligheidslogica te doorbreken. Op basis van directe waarnemingen en interviews op en rond het Fontainasplein wil dit artikel uitgaan van een nieuwe benadering. Het bevat deze ruimte op basis van het begrip “grens” en brengt op basis van een intersectionele analyse verslag uit over de sociaal-stedelijke mechanismen die bijdragen aan het ontstaan van breuken met betrekking tot geaardheid, sociale klasse en etniciteit. De continue mannelijke overheersing in elk van de bestudeerde zones beperkt de toegang van vrouwen tot de openbare ruimte en maakt hen onzichtbaar.