bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shientific heritage of the Academy of Sciences of the UAS GA Bogdano in the context of environmental monitoring of livestock in zones of radioactive contamination
Authors: Kashpersky V.
Published: October 2018

It is highlighted the contribution of the doctor of agricultural sciences, academician of the UAAS G.A. Bogdanov in the development of scientific bases for the management of livestock in radioactively contaminated lands. The main components of his scientific heritage are generalized: agronomic and technological measures to reduce the input of radionuclides in fodder crops, the organization of fodder production, balancing of rations on sugar, protein and trace elements, and the inclusion of sorbents in animal rations. The analysis of his scientific works on the given problem has been carried out.
Professor М. V. Vinokurov about the railways’ wagon parkdevelopment of national railways
Authors: Ustiak N.
Published: October 2018

The article is devoted to the vision by professor М. V. Vinokurov the process on development of the railways wagon park in the Russian empire and soviet time (up to 1960). All aspects of con-structing freight wagons and passenger carriages are shown chronologically. М. V. Vinokurov de-fined directions in the development of carriages constructions. Further development and improve-ment of railway transport included foremost radical reconstruction of traction - replacement of locomotives by electric locomotives and diesel engines. On this basis the rearmament of all railway transport industries was carried out, including wagon and carriage facilities.
O cenário dual das relações de trabalho e a repressão à informalidade no período ditatorial.
Authors: Pereira Rosângela Maria , Alves Delgado de Avila Maria Cristina
Published: October 2018

Este trabalho de pesquisa propõe-se, a partir do levantamento bibliográfico e documental, compreender o trabalho informal e seu quadro evolutivo no Brasil entre 1960-1980. O foco dirige-se à discussão de um cenário dual do ponto de vista das relações de trabalho: por um lado há uma supervalorização das categorias socioprofissionais e do registro em carteira de trabalho como referência implícita de todas as discussões, e por outro lado, uma massa de trabalhadores é levada aos centros urbanos, onde se mantiveram essencialmente no trabalho informal sem garantias trabalhistas. A análise das profissões permaneceu, durante décadas, assentada na apreciação das categorias socioprofissionais (CSP). É o que se denomina identidade genérica. Neste período, a carteira de trabalho significava o registro de uma função reconhecida socialmente, o que faz dela uma identidade social. No mesmo período entrou em pleno vigor a Lei de Contravenções Penais, que previa prisão a quem se entregasse habitualmente à ociosidade, incluindo o trabalho sem renda e o trabalho informal. A referida lei foi amplamente usada nesse período para que trabalhadores informais fossem presos num cenário dual do ponto de vista das relações trabalhistas.
Risco de desenvolvimento no Código de Defesa do Consumidor: atenuante da responsabilidade do fornecedor pelo fato do produto
Authors: Leal Luciana Barboza , Kallás Filho Elias
Published: October 2018

O presente artigo tem como tema central o risco de desenvolvimento de produtos, especialmente no setor de medicamentos. O trabalho desenvolve-se por meio de pesquisa bibliográfica, de autores nacionais e estrangeiros, realizando-se comparativo com a Diretiva Europeia 85/374/CEE, a qual, expressamente, trata do tema. Busca-se, pois, por meio deste estudo, discutir, a partir do que prevê o Código de Defesa do Consumidor, se o risco de desenvolvimento pode influenciar a verificação da responsabilidade civil do fornecedor, seja como excludente ou como atenuante daquela responsabilidade.Palavras-chave: Direito do consumidor. Responsabilidade do fornecedor. Fato do produto. Diretiva Europeia 85/374/CEE. Risco de desenvolvimento.
SUJEITOS DE DIREITO INTERNACIONAL PÚBLICO: UM PROCESSO EVOLUTIVO DE RECONHECIMENTO
Authors: Oliveira da Silveira Vladmir , Fernandes Ana Carolina Souza
Published: October 2018

O presente artigo tem como objetivo principal tratar do processo de reconhecimento dos sujeitos de direito internacional público. É sabido que por suas próprias características, o Estado é, por excelência, sujeito originário do direito internacional público. Porém, a partir do século XX, organizações internacionais passam a contracenar com o Estado, para fins de se atingir a finalidade para a qual a Organização das Nações Unidas fora criada em 1945, no Pós-Segunda Guerra Mundial. Estes, em conjunto, formam atualmente os chamados sujeitos de direito internacional público, porquanto criam direitos e obrigações na ordem internacional. Porém, o Direito Internacional em sentido lato, como em qualquer outro ramo do Direito, acompanha o processo evolutivo da sociedade e, portanto, não se pode querer restringir o alcance ou os destinatários das leis internacionais. Neste contexto, sob uma perspectiva bibliográfica doméstica e internacional, como também jurisprudencial, utilizando-se do método dedutivo de pesquisa, perquirir-se-á neste artigo somente acerca do processo evolutivo de reconhecimento dos sujeitos de direito internacional público.
Modification of Immediate Postplacenta CuT-380A IUD Insertion Using Ring Forceps and Standard Inserter: Twelve Months Follow-up
Authors: Tjahjanto Hary , Hadiningrat Wijoyo
Published: October 2018

Objective: To evaluate the outcome of CuT-380A IUD postplacental

insertion in vaginal delivery using new modification insertion technique.

Method: We carried out a prospective cohort study of postplacental

IUD insertion by means of ’push and push’ technique, using ring forceps and standard inserter (inserter tube and plunger rod). We included women who underwent vaginal delivery from 1st June 2009

until 31st March 2011 and had postplacental IUD insertion. Followup

was conducted for 12 months, including history, physical examination, ultrasound and questionnaires during evaluation, through home visits and by phone. The first monitoring is before 6 weeks after delivery, the second monitoring was after 6 weeks up to 3

months, the third is after 3 months up to 6 months, the fourth is after 6 months up to 12 months, the fifth is after 12 months up to 24 months and the sixth is after 24 months up to 32 months after insertion.

Result: On the second monitoring, 2 acceptors experienced expulsion.

At the third monitoring period, one acceptor requested for IUD

removal. At 9 months up to 12 months post-insertion, one expulsion

was encountered, and one acceptor requested removal of device. At

≥12 months there was one acceptor who had IUD removal. We did

not find any report of unintended pregnancy or perforation.

Conclusion: Immediate post-placental insertion of CuT-380A IUD

after vaginal delivery using ’push and push’ technique is safe and effective.

The pregnancy rate at typical use is 0%, continuation rate is

94.1% and low expulsion rate (2.86%). Loss of follow up was 5.6%

and no perforation was reported.

Keywords: continuation rate, immediate post-placental IUD insertion,

’push and push’ technique, typical use, vaginal delivery
Daily Application of EvidenceBased Medicine
Authors: Indarti Junita
Published: October 2018

N/A
Husband’s Support is a Main Factor Associated with Contraceptive Practices
Authors: Fernando Darrell , Dediat Rachmat
Published: October 2018

Objective: To determine factors associated with contraceptive practices

in Palabuhanratu, West Java.

Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study at the Obstetrics and

Gynecologic ward of Local General Hospital of Palabuhanratu District,

between March and June 2012. Data was collected using directed

interview method by investigators and midwives, using non-validated

questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.0,

utilizing Chi-Square test for nominal data and Kruskal-Wallis test for

numerical data.

Result: We obtained 71 samples. The only factors which are significant

were age group of 20-35 years old (OR=3.5, 95%CI=1.1-11.1,

p=0.025) and husband’s support (OR=14.67, 95%CI=1.52-141.18,

p=0.012). The most recognized contraceptive methods familiar to

our respondents were injection (94.4%) and pills (93.0%), and the

most useful source of information on contraception was medical personnel

(73.2%).

Conclusion: Husband’s support is a main factor associated with contraceptive

practice. The choice of contraceptive method should be adjusted

according to the ability and desire of patients to prevent failures

in family planning.

Keywords: associated factors, contraception, husband’s support
IIIB-IV Degree Perineal Rupture Repair Using Overlapping and End-to-End Techniques with Pudendal Block Anesthesia
Authors: Pangastuti Nuring , Junizaf Junizaf , Pranoto Ibnu , Santoso Budi I , Priyatini Tyas
Published: October 2018

Objective: To compare the incidence of persistent sonographic anal

sphincter defect, fecal urgency, anal and fecal incontinence after IIIb-

IV degree perineal rupture repair using overlapping and end-to-end

technique.

Method: An open clinical trial with randomization was carried out in

July 2010-April 2012. The population consisted of the patients who

underwent vaginal delivery in Dr. Sardjito Central General Hospital,

Sleman District General Hospital, as well as Tegalrejo, Jetis and Mergangsan

Community Health Centers who did no have complaints of

fecal urgency, anal incontinence, and/or fecal incontinence, and suffered

IIIb-IV degree perineal rupture repaired within less than 24

hours of rupture. The exclusion criteria included conditions in which

patients could not undergo repair at the moment (shock, uncooperative

patient). Fourty-eight research samples were divided into 2

groups, 24 samples for each of the treatment group (overlapping repair)

and the control group (end-to-end repair). Local anesthesia was

performed in a pudendal-block manner.

Result: Success of the repair was assessed based on the presence of

persistent sonographic anal sphincter defects in the 6-week evaluation

after repair. Successful repair was higher in the overlapping group

than that of the end-to-end group (94.74% vs 81.25%, p=0.31).

Clinically and based on the Fecal Continence Scoring Scale (FCSS),

evaluation at weeks II and VI indicated successful repair in both

groups.

Conclusion: There was no difference in the incidence of persistent

sonographic anal sphincter defects, fecal urgency, anal incontinence,

and fecal incontinence, after IIIb-IV degree perineal rupture repair

using overlapping technique in comparison with end-to-end technique.

Keywords: end-to-end technique, III-IV degree perineal rupture,

obstetric perineal rupture, overlapping technique
Fertility Preservation: Save Our Hope for the Future It’s Time to Rethink...
Authors: Wiweko Budi
Published: October 2018

N/A
Fascin Expression as Prognostic Factor for Survival in Advanced Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma
Authors: Vitantri Fara , Purbadi Sigit , Siregar Budiningsih , Sutrisna Bambang
Published: October 2018

Objective: To evaluate fascin expression as a prognostic factor and

its correlation with survival and clinicopathologic factors (degree of

differentiation and stage) in epithelial ovarian carcinoma.

Methods: This study is prognostic study with historical cohort design.

Fascin was analyzed in paraffin block sections of 33 advanced

stage ovarian carcinoma patients using immunohistochemistry. Fascin

expression was tested for its correlation with overall survival as

well as with grade and stage of the cancer.

Results: In this study, fascin expression has no correlation with survival.

In the period of 17-22 months, samples with high fascin expression

had a HR of 1.59 (95% CI=0.38-6.67, p=0.449), but in the

period of 17-23 months, both groups had comparable HR. In the period

of more than 23 months, samples with high expression of fascin

had a better HR of 0.40 (95% CI=0.04-4.38, p=0.449). No significant

correlation was found between fascin expression with grade

(OR=2.08, 95% CI=0.44-9.84, p=0.442) and stage (OR=2.70, 95%

CI=0.39-18.96, p=0.360).

Conclusion: In this study, there was no correlation between fascin

expression and survival, and also no correlation between fascin,

grade and stage. Further study with a larger, more homogenous

sample, analyzing confounding factors is needed.

[Indones J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 3-4: 222-229]

Keywords: advanced stage ovarian carcinoma, fascin, survival
Promising Male Hormonal Contraceptive are Well Established Soon a Reality
Authors: Gunardi Eka R , Soetarso Arnold , Addina Putri
Published: October 2018

Objective: To understand the modalities used for male hormonal

contraception.

Methods: Literature review

Conclusion: Male contraceptive methods are still limited but hormonal

contraceptive methods are being developed. The basic

mechanism of male hormonal contraception is to inhibit spermatogenesis

by suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis

function. Administration of testosterone or androgen derivative that

is given in combination with progestin or GnRH antagonist shows

that male hormonal contraceptive is reversible, effective, and acceptable

as a male contraceptive method. However, no method of male

hormonal contraceptive is ready for clinical use and marketed due

to limited studies.

[Indones J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 3-4: 239-243]

Keywords: GnRH antagonist, male hormonal contraceptive, progestin,

testosterone
Eventos adversos
Authors: Aparecida Oliveira Moreira Aline , Carvalho Remondi Gisele , Claudia do Carmo Ortega Maria , Verlingue Silvana , Najara Conceição Ortega Natália
Published: October 2018

O presente trabalho é um relato de experiência sobre os incentivos e estratégias adotadas pelo Núcleo de Segurança do Paciente para promoção das notificações dos eventos adversos. Objetivou-se avaliar os resultados das estratégias adotadas para notificação de eventos adversos no Hospital Dr. Eulalino Ignácio de Andrade. Foram realizadas diversas ações a fim de promover a identificação de incidentes relacionados à segurança do paciente. A mais efetiva constitui-se na criação de um formulário simplificado e instalação de urnas em locais estratégicos. A partir dos resultados obtidos, verificou-se um aumento significativo das notificações, ampliação dos notificadores e diversificação dos eventos relacionados que interferem na qualidade da assistência. O advento destas novas informações possibilitam o (re)direcionamento de ações para melhoria da assistência e segurança do paciente.
Helicopter Simulator Performance Prediction Using the Random Forest Method
Authors: Bauer Hans , Nowak Dennis , Herbig Britta
Published: October 2018

INTRODUCTION: Different aspects of the aviation system, such as pilot’s fitness, supervision, and working conditions, interact to produce or protect against flight safety hazards. Machine learning methods such as Random Forests may help identify system characteristics with
the potential to affect flight safety from the large number of candidate predictors that results when multiple system levels are considered simultaneously.METHODS: There were 54 pilot-related and occupational candidate predictors of simulator flight performance in 2 malfunction
scenarios completed by 51 male European helicopter emergency medical services pilots derived from pilots’ self-report questionnaires and aeromedical examination records. In a cross-sectional explorative analysis, the Random Forest method was used to screen for informative predictors.
Predictors scoring above the critical threshold for the conditional permutation variable importance (VI) statistic were selected.RESULTS: In five predictors, the VI statistic averaged across 2000 Random Forest runs exceeded the selection threshold: higher perceived rewards (VI =
0.0691) and predictability (VI = 0.0501) at work were associated with higher performance scores, and higher physiological dysregulation (VI = 0.0495) and alanine aminotransferase (VI = 0.0224) with lower scores. Performance also differed between the simulators at the two training sites (VI
= 0.0298).DISCUSSION: Random Forests may usefully complement previously applied methods for the identification of human factors safety hazards. The identified performance predictors suggest further areas with potential for safety improvements.Bauer H, Nowak D, Herbig B. Helicopter
simulator performance prediction using the Random Forest method. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(11):967–975.
Interaction Between Ambient Temperature, Hypoxia, and Load Carriage on Respiratory Muscle Fatigue
Authors: Hinde Katrina , Low Chris , Lloyd Ray , Cooke Carlton
Published: October 2018

BACKGROUND: While respiratory muscle fatigue is present following load carriage activity at sea level, the effect of environmental conditions on respiratory strength while undertaking load carriage is unknown.METHODS: The effect of thoracic load carriage during walks
(5.5 km) in four environments [(thermo-neutral sea level (SL), −10°C (C), 4300 m (H) and 4300 m at −10°C (HC)] was evaluated on respiratory muscle fatigue. Ten subjects completed eight self-paced randomized treadmill walks comprising a variety of gradients, unloaded and
loaded (18.2 kg), across the four environments. Respiratory muscle strength was measured via maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax) and expiratory pressure (PEmax) assessments.RESULTS: Submaximal walking in HC elicited respiratory muscle fatigue when compared
to SL. Inspiratory muscle fatigue was independent of load. The relative change in PImax from baseline was significantly greater in HC compared to SL (9.6% vs. 1.3%). PEmax showed a significant reduction during HC (−22.3 cmH2O, −14.4%) when compared
to the other three environments.CONCLUSION: These results highlight the need to focus on respiratory muscle strength in preparation for exercise in cold hypoxic conditions.Hinde K, Low C, Lloyd R, Cooke C. Interaction between ambient temperature, hypoxia, and load carriage on respiratory muscle fatigue. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(11):952–960.
Objective Metrics Quantifying Fit and Performance in Spacesuit Assemblies
Authors: Fineman Richard A. , McGrath Timothy M. , Kelty-Stephen Damian G. , Abercromby Andrew F. J. , Stirling Leia A.
Published: October 2018

INTRODUCTION: Human-spacesuit fit is not well understood, especially in relation to operational performance and injury risk. Current fit decisions use subjective feedback. This work developed and evaluated new metrics for quantifying fit and assessed metric sensitivity to changes
in padding between the human and hip brief assembly (HBA).METHODS: Three subjects donned the Mark III (MKIII) spacesuit with three padding thicknesses between the lower body and HBA. Subjects performed a walking task with inertial measurement units on the thigh and shin of both
the human and suit. For each step, cadence, human knee task range of motion (tRoM), difference in human and suit tROM (ΔtRoM), and the relative coordination metric (ρ) between the human-suit femur and tibia were computed.RESULTS: The MKIII significantly reduced user cadence
by 20.4% and reduced tRoM by 16.5% during walking with subject-dependent changes due to added padding. In general, the addition of padding significantly altered ΔtRoM; however, variability did exist between subjects. Mixed-effect regressions of dynamic fit (ρ) reflect distinct positive
spikes in ρ around heel strike (human-dominated motion) and negative dips following toe off (suit-dominated motion).DISCUSSION: There were mixed effects of padding on gait performance and dynamic fit measures. Differences in dynamic fit between subjects may be more reliant on
alternate aspects of fit, such as suit component sizes and designs, than padding level. Subjective feedback supported quantitative observations, highlighting metric utility. Future work will explore the effects of suit sizing components on measures of fit and performance.Fineman RA,
McGrath TM, Kelty-Stephen DG, Abercromby AFJ, Stirling LA. Objective metrics quantifying fit and performance in spacesuit assemblies. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(11):985–995.
A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Decompression Sickness in Altitude Physiological Training
Authors: Conkin Johnny , Sanders Robert W. , Koslovsky Matthew D. , Wear Mary L. , Kozminski Andrew G. , Abercromby Andrew F. J.
Published: October 2018

INTRODUCTION: A review of decompression sickness (DCS) cases associated with the NASA altitude physiological training (APT) program at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) motivated us to place our findings into the larger context of DCS prevalence from other APT centers.METHODS:
We reviewed JSC records from 1999 to 2016 and 14 publications from 1968 to 2004 about DCS prevalence in other APT programs. We performed a meta-analysis of 15 APT profiles (488 cases / 385,116 exposures). We used meta-regression to evaluate the relation between estimated exposures and probability
of DCS in a test group, accounting for the heterogeneity between studies.RESULTS: Our in-house review identified 6 Type I DCS (1 from an inside observer) and 1 Type II DCS. There were 6 cases in 9560 student hypobaric exposures from 3 NASA training flights; a student pooled prevalence
rate of 0.44 cases / 1000 exposures compared to 1.44 cases / 1000 from 12 published APT profiles. The overall pooled DCS prevalence rate was 1.16 cases / 1000 exposures. There was substantial heterogeneity in DCS prevalence across studies. Denitrogenation time, exposure pressure, and exposure
time were associated with probability of DCS in the meta-regression model.CONCLUSIONS: While the overall DCS prevalence rate is relatively low, there is marked heterogeneity among profiles. The pooled DCS prevalence rate estimate for the NASA profiles was lower than the overall
rate. Variability in APT profile DCS prevalence could be further explained given student level and additional test-level covariates.Conkin J, Sanders RW, Koslovsky MD, Wear ML, Kozminski AG, Abercromby AFJ. A systematic review and meta-analysis of decompression sickness in altitude
physiological training. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(11):941–951.
Respiratory Muscle Training Effects on Performance in Hypo- and Hyperbaria
Authors: Hess Hayden , Hostler David
Published: October 2018

INTRODUCTION: Performing at high altitude and scuba diving impose functional limitations to the respiratory system and impair exercise performance compared to normobaria. At altitude, the partial pressure of oxygen is reduced, which decreases arterial oxygen saturation and exercise
performance. Falling arterial oxygen saturation results in hyperventilation and increased pulmonary ventilation. Diving poses unique effects on the respiratory system. The work of breathing is increased from marked increased airway resistance, static lung load, and hydrostatic pressure from
the water on the thoracic wall. Both altitude and diving increase the work and energy cost of breathing, resulting in respiratory muscle fatigue. Respiratory muscle training (RMT) has been employed to target the deleterious effects on the respiratory system and exercise capacity. Although
the literature is sparse, RMT has been reported to decrease the work and energy cost of breathing and improve pulmonary ventilation, respiratory muscle strength, pulmonary function, and exercise capacity. This narrative review summarizes what is currently known about RMT for exercise performance
at altitude and in diving, including potential mechanisms and outlines gaps in the literature.Hess H, Hostler D. Respiratory muscle training effects on performance in hypo- and hyperbaria. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(11):996–1001.
Selective Auditory Attention and Spatial Disorientation Cues Effect on Flight Performance
Authors: Lewkowicz Rafał , Stróżak Paweł , Bałaj Bibianna , Francuz Piotr , Augustynowicz Paweł
Published: October 2018

INTRODUCTION: The auditory system is not as heavily involved in the pilot’s spatial orientation as the visual and vestibular systems; however, it plays a significant role in the cockpit for communication and warning information. The aim of this research was to investigate
the combined effect of selective auditory attention and simulator-induced spatial disorientation (SD) cues on pilots’ flight performance. We hypothesized that the flight performance in both disoriented and oriented flight profiles would be impaired by selective auditory attention.METHODS:
Using an SD simulator, 40 male military pilots (M = 31.9; SD = 7.41) were exposed to 12 flight sequences, where 6 contained a SD-conflict, 3 with motion illusions and 3 with visual illusions. The pilots performed a duration discrimination task (DDT) involving sound stimuli while
completing these profiles under SD-conflict and nonconflict conditions.RESULTS: In five flight profiles tested, the DDT and SD cues increased the pilots’ cognitive workload, adversely affecting their flight performance. In the approach and landing profiles involving visual
illusions, significant differences between the control and DDT groups were found for both nonconflict and SD-conflict flight sequences, whereas differences were only significant between nonconflict and SD-conflict flights for the two vestibular SD profiles.DISCUSSION: The results
obtained partially support our hypothesis that performing the DDT, even in the absence of SD-conflict, significantly affects pilots’ flight performance. In some cases, despite the large increase in cognitive workload, pilots did not activate the “posture first” principle.
Pilots should be trained not to respond to auditory stimuli until they have recovered their spatial orientation.Lewkowicz R, Stróżak P, Bałaj B, Francuz P, Augustynowicz P. Selective auditory attention and spatial disorientation cues effect on flight performance. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(11):976–984.
Delineation of Agricultural Drainage Pipe Patterns Using Ground Penetrating Radar Integrated with a Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System
Authors: Allred Barry , Wishart DeBonne , Martinez Luis , Schomberg Harry , Mirsky Steven , Meyers George , Elliott John , Charyton Christine
Published: October 2018

Better methods are needed for mapping agricultural drainage pipe systems. Prior research on small test plots indicates that ground penetrating radar (GPR) is oftentimes capable of detecting buried drainage pipes; however, the feasibility of employing this geophysical technique in larger field areas has not been adequately evaluated. Ground penetrating radar integrated with a Real-Time Kinematic (RTK) Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) may be an effective and efficient means of mapping drain lines within agricultural fields. Therefore, GPR-RTK/GNSS was tested in three agricultural settings; with Site 1 and Site 2 located in Beltsville, MD, USA and Site 3 near Columbus, OH, USA. Soils at the three sites ranged from silty clay loam to loamy sand. A GPR unit with 250 MHz antennas was used to detect drainage pipes, and at Sites 1 and 2, a physical GNSS base station was utilized, while a virtual base station was employed at Site 3. The GPR-RTK/GNSS configurations used in this study delineated a complex rectangular drainage pipe system at Site 1, with one set of drainage pipes oriented southwest-northeast and a second oriented southeast-northwest. At Site 2, a herringbone drain line pattern was outlined, and at Site 3, random drain lines were found. When integrated with RTK/GNSS, spiral or serpentine GPR transects (or spiral/serpentine segments of a GPR transects) were utilized to provide insight on drain line directional trends. Consequently, given suitable field conditions, GPR integrated with RTK/GNSS can be a valuable tool for farmers and drainage contractors needing to map subsurface drainage systems.
Microbial Biopesticides in Agroecosystems
Authors: Ruiu Luca
Published: October 2018

Microbial biopesticides include several microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, baculoviruses, and nematode-associated bacteria acting against invertebrate pests in agro-ecosystems. The biopesticide sector is experiencing a significant growth and many discoveries are being developed into new biopesticidal products that are fueling a growing global market offer. Following a few decades of successful use of the entomopathogenic bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis and a few other microbial species, recent academic and industrial efforts have led to the discovery of new microbial species and strains, and of their specific toxins and virulence factors. Many of these have, therefore, been developed into commercial products. Bacterial entomopathogens include several Bacillaceae, Serratia, Pseudomonas, Yersinia, Burkholderia, Chromobacterium, Streptomyces, and Saccharopolyspora species, while fungi comprise different strains of Beauveria bassiana, B. brongniartii, Metarhizium anisopliae, Verticillium, Lecanicillium, Hirsutella, Paecilomyces, and Isaria species. Baculoviruses are species-specific and refer to niche products active against chewing insects, especially Lepidopteran caterpillars. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) mainly include species in the genera Heterorhabditis and Steinernema associated with mutualistic symbiotic bacteria belonging to the genera Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus. An updated representation of the current knowledge on microbial biopesticides and of the availability of active substances that can be used in integrated pest management programs in agro-ecosystems is reported here.
A Comparison between Video and Still Imagery as a Methodology to Determine Southern Hairy-Nosed Wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons) Burrow Occupancy Rates
Authors: Swinbourne Michael J. , Taggart David A. , Ostendorf Bertram
Published: October 2018

Broad-scale abundance estimates of the southern hairy-nosed wombat population use a proxy measure based on counting the number of active burrows, which is multiplied by an index of ‘wombats/active burrow’. However, the extant indices were calculated in the 1980s, prior to the use of calicivirus to control rabbits, and used invasive monitoring methods which may have affected the results. We hypothesise that the use of video might provide a logistically simple, non-invasive means of calculating updated indices. To this end, motion-activated, infra-red still and video cameras were placed at various distances outside active wombat burrows in the South Australian Murraylands and Eyre Peninsula regions. The captured imagery was inspected to determine how often the burrow was occupied by one or more wombats, and how effective the cameras were at detecting wombat activity. Video data was clearly superior to the still imagery, with more than twice as many burrow occupancies being positively identified (still: 43%). The indices of wombats/active burrow calculated based on video imagery were: Murraylands: 0.43, Eyre Peninsula: 0.42. 1948 false positive videos were recorded, of which 1674 (86%) occurred between noon and sunset.
Cetobacterium Is a Major Component of the Microbiome of Giant Amazonian Fish (Arapaima gigas) in Ecuador
Authors: Ramírez Carolina , Coronado Jaime , Silva Arturo , Romero Jaime
Published: October 2018

Arapaima gigas is a large air-breathing fish found in Amazonian rivers, a characteristic that gives this species an advantage in oxygen-deprived waters. It shows high potential for aquaculture in the Amazon region due to its fast growth rate that approaches 10–15 kg/year. The aim of this study was to explore the composition of the intestinal bacterial community of Arapaima gigas reared in Ecuador using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing. The analysis revealed significant differences in alpha diversity indices (p < 0.05) and differential distribution of minor components of the intestinal microbiome between small and large fish. However, components with greater relative abundance, such as Cetobacterium, are found in similar proportions.
Head-Raising of Snake Robots Based on a Predefined Spiral Curve Method
Authors: Zhang Xiaobo , Liu Jinguo , Ju Zhaojie , Yang Chenguang
Published: October 2018

A snake robot has to raise its head to acquire a wide visual space for planning complex tasks such as inspecting unknown environments, tracking a flying object and acting as a manipulator with its raising part. However, only a few researchers currently focus on analyzing the head-raising motion of snake robots. Thus, a predefined spiral curve method is proposed for the head-raising motion of such robots. First, the expression of the predefined spiral curve is designed. Second, with the curve and a line segments model of a snake robot, a shape-fitting algorithm is developed for constraining the robot’s macro shape. Third, the coordinate system of the line segments model of the robot is established. Then, phase-shifting and angle-solving algorithms are developed to obtain the angle sequences of roll, pitch, and yaw during the head-raising motion. Finally, the head-raising motion is simulated using the angle sequences to validate the feasibility of this method.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Magnesium Matrix Composites Interpenetrated by Different Reinforcement
Authors: Wu Shuxu , Wang Shouren , Wen Daosheng , Wang Gaoqi , Wang Yong
Published: October 2018

The present work discusses the microstructure and mechanical properties of the as-cast and as-extruded metal matrix composites interpenetrated by stainless steel (Fe–18Cr–9Ni), titanium alloy (Ti–6Al–4V), and aluminum alloy (Al–5Mg–3Zn) three-dimensional network reinforcement materials. The results show that the different reinforcement materials have different degrees of improvement on the microstructures and mechanical properties of the magnesium matrix composites. Among them, magnesium matrix composites interpenetrated by stainless steel reinforcement have maximum tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation, which are 355 MPa, 241 MPa, and 13%, respectively. Compared with the matrix, it increases by 47.9%, 60.7% and 85.7%, respectively. Moreover, compared with the as-cast state, the as-extruded sample has a relatively small grain size and a uniform size distribution. The grain size of the as-cast magnesium matrix composites is mainly concentrated at 200–300 μm, whereas the extruded state is mainly concentrated at 10–30 μm. The reason is that the coordination deformation of reinforcement and matrix, and the occurrence of dynamic recrystallization, cause grain refinement of magnesium matrix composite during the extrusion process, thereby improving its mechanical properties. Moreover, the improvement is attributed to the effect of the reinforcement itself, and the degree of grain refinement of the metal matrix composites.
Single Trace Side Channel Analysis on NTRU Implementation
Authors: An Soojung , Kim Suhri , Jin Sunghyun , Kim HanBit , Kim HeeSeok
Published: October 2018

As researches on the quantum computer have progressed immensely, interests in post-quantum cryptography have greatly increased. NTRU is one of the well-known algorithms due to its practical key sizes and fast performance along with the resistance against the quantum adversary. Although NTRU has withstood various algebraic attacks, its side-channel resistance must also be considered for secure implementation. In this paper, we proposed the first single trace attack on NTRU. Previous side-channel attacks on NTRU used numerous power traces, which increase the attack complexity and limit the target algorithm. There are two versions of NTRU implementation published in succession. We demonstrated our attack on both implementations using a single power consumption trace obtained in the decryption phase. Furthermore, we propose a countermeasure to prevent the proposed attacks. Our countermeasure does not degrade in terms of performance.
Studies on Influencing Factors of Ammonium Rhenate Recovery from Waste Superalloy
Authors: Tang Junjie , Sun Yuan , Hou Guichen , Ding Yutian , He Fengwei , Zhou Yizhou
Published: October 2018

The influencing factors of ammonia content and centrifugal speed on ammonium rhenate recovery from waste superalloy were systematically analyzed. It was found that proper ammonia content and centrifugal speed could promote crystal growth and a higher purity of ammonium rhenate was obtained. Moreover, the XRD patterns showed that excessive ammonia content and inappropriate centrifugal speed restrained the growth of (101) crystal plane and (112) crystal plane, which caused the crystal structural regularity and relative crystallinity to attenuate. The microscopic morphology and purity of the crystal also changed.
The State of the Art of the Control Strategies for Single-Phase Electric Springs
Authors: Wang Qingsong , Chen Panhong , Deng Fujin , Cheng Ming , Buja Giuseppe
Published: October 2018

The concept of electric springs (ESs) has been proposed as a new solution for stabilizing power grid fed by intermittent renewable energy sources. With a battery or active power source (DC, on the inside), the ESs can provide both active and reactive power compensations. So far, three typical topologies of single-phase ESs have been reported. Unlike traditional devices where power generation follows the load demand, the ESs are associated with non-critical loads form the so-called smart loads that transfer the fluctuated power to the non-critical loads, adaptively, according to the intermittent nature of power generation. After reviewing the main control strategies of single-phase ESs, the paper analyzes their advantages and disadvantages as well as their suitable applications. Comparisons among different control strategies on a specific topology version are implemented. Finally, conclusions and possible future trends are pointed out.
Optimal Power Reserve of a Wind Turbine System Participating in Primary Frequency Control
Authors: Bubshait Abdullah , G. Simões Marcelo
Published: October 2018

Participation of a wind turbine (WT) in primary frequency control (PFC) requires reserving some active power. The reserved power can be used to support the grid frequency. To maintain the required amount of reserve power, the WT is de-loaded to operate under its maximum power. The objective of this article is to design a control method for a WT system to maintain the reserved power of the WT, by controlling both pitch angle and rotor speed simultaneously in order to optimize the operation of the WT system. The pitch angle is obtained such that the stator current of the permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG) is reduced. Therefore, the resistive losses in the machine and the conduction losses of the converter are minimized. To avoid an excessive number of pitch motor operations, the wind forecast is implemented in order to predict consistent pitch angle valid for longer timeframe. Then, the selected pitch angle and the known curtailed power are used to find the optimal rotor speed by applying a nonlinear equation solver. To validate the proposed de-loading approach and control method, a detailed WT system is modeled in Matlab/Simulink (The Mathworks, Natick, MA, USA, 2017). Then, the proposed control scheme is validated using hardware-in-the-loop and real time simulation built in Opal-RT (10.4.14, Opal-RT Inc., Montreal, PQ, Canada).
Effects of Anisotropic Turbulence on Propagation Characteristics of Partially Coherent Beams with Spatially Varying Coherence
Authors: Dao Wentao , Liang Chunhao , Wang Fei , Cai Yangjian , Hoenders Bernhard J.
Published: October 2018

Based on the extended Huygens-Fresnel (eHF) principle, approximate analytical expressions for the spectral density of nonuniformly correlated (NUC) beams are derived with the help of discrete model decompositions. The beams are propagating along horizontal paths through an anisotropic turbulent medium. Based on the derived formula, the influence of the anisotropic turbulence (anisotropy factors, structure parameters) on the evolution of the average intensity, the shift of the intensity maxima and the power-in-the-bucket (PIB) are investigated in detail through numerical examples. It is found that the lateral shifting of the intensity maxima is closely related to the anisotropy factors and the strength of turbulence. Our results also reveal that, in the case of weak turbulence, the beam profile can retain the feature of local intensity sharpness, but this feature degenerates quickly if the strength of the turbulence increases. The value of PIB of the NUC beams can be even higher than that of Gaussian beams by appropriately controlling the coherence parameter in the weak turbulence regime. This feature makes the NUC beams useful for free-space communication.
A Perceptual Evaluation of Individual and Non-Individual HRTFs: A Case Study of the SADIE II Database
Authors: Armstrong Cal , Thresh Lewis , Murphy Damian , Kearney Gavin
Published: October 2018

As binaural audio continues to permeate immersive technologies, it is vital to develop a detailed understanding of the perceptual relevance of HRTFs. Previous research has explored the benefit of individual HRTFs with respect to localisation. However, localisation is only one metric with which it is possible to rate spatial audio. This paper evaluates the perceived timbral and spatial characteristics of both individual and non-individual HRTFs and compares the results to overall preference. To that end, the measurement and evaluation of a high-resolution multi-environment binaural Impulse Response database is presented for 20 subjects, including the KU100 and KEMAR binaural mannequins. Post-processing techniques, including low frequency compensation and diffuse field equalisation are discussed in relation to the 8802 unique HRTFs measured for each mannequin and 2818/2114 HRTFs measured for each human. Listening test results indicate that particular HRTF sets are preferred more generally by subjects over their own individual measurements.
Foot-Mounted Inertial Measurement Units-Based Device for Ankle Rehabilitation
Authors: Gómez-Espinosa Alfonso , Espinosa-Castillo Nancy , Valdés-Aguirre Benjamín
Published: October 2018

Ankle sprains are frequent injuries that occur among people of all ages. Ankle sprains constitute approximately 15% of all sports injuries, and are the most common traumatic emergencies. Without proper treatment and rehabilitation, a more severe sprain can weaken the ankle, making it more likely for new injures, and leading to long-term problems. In this work, we present an inertial measurement units (IMU)-based physical interface for measuring the foot attitude, and a graphical user interface that acts as a visual guide for patient rehabilitation. A foot-mounted physical interface for ankle rehabilitation was developed. The physical interface is connected to the computer by a Bluetooth link, and provides feedback to the patient while performing dorsiflexion, plantarflexion, eversion, and inversion exercises. The system allows for in-home rehabilitation at an affordable price while engaging the patient through active therapy. According to the results, more consistent rehabilitation could be achieved by providing feedback on foot angular position during therapy procedures.
Communicating Efficiently on Cluster-Based Remote Direct Memory Access (RDMA) over InfiniBand Protocol
Authors: Hemmatpour Masoud , Montrucchio Bartolomeo , Rebaudengo Maurizio
Published: October 2018

Distributed systems are commonly built under the assumption that the network is the primary bottleneck, however this assumption no longer holds by emerging high-performance RDMA enabled protocols in datacenters. Designing distributed applications over such protocols requires a fundamental rethinking in communication components in comparison with traditional protocols (i.e., TCP/IP). In this paper, communication paradigms in existing systems and new possible paradigms have been investigated. Advantages and drawbacks of each paradigm have been comprehensively analyzed and experimentally evaluated. The experimental results show that writing the requests to server and reading the response presents up to 10 times better performance comparing to other communication paradigms. To further expand the investigation, the proposed communication paradigm has been substituted in a real-world distributed application, and the performance has been enhanced up to seven times.
Smart Home Anti-Theft System: A Novel Approach for Near Real-Time Monitoring and Smart Home Security for Wellness Protocol
Authors: Pandya Sharnil , Ghayvat Hemant , Kotecha Ketan , Awais Mohammed , Akbarzadeh Saeed , Gope Prosanta , Mukhopadhyay Subhas Chandra , Chen Wei
Published: October 2018

The proposed research methodology aims to design a generally implementable framework for providing a house owner/member with the immediate notification of an ongoing theft (unauthorized access to their premises). For this purpose, a rigorous analysis of existing systems was undertaken to identify research gaps. The problems found with existing systems were that they can only identify the intruder after the theft, or cannot distinguish between human and non-human objects. Wireless Sensors Networks (WSNs) combined with the use of Internet of Things (IoT) and Cognitive Internet of Things are expanding smart home concepts and solutions, and their applications. The present research proposes a novel smart home anti-theft system that can detect an intruder, even if they have partially/fully hidden their face using clothing, leather, fiber, or plastic materials. The proposed system can also detect an intruder in the dark using a CCTV camera without night vision capability. The fundamental idea was to design a cost-effective and efficient system for an individual to be able to detect any kind of theft in real-time and provide instant notification of the theft to the house owner. The system also promises to implement home security with large video data handling in real-time. The investigation results validate the success of the proposed system. The system accuracy has been enhanced to 97.01%, 84.13, 78.19%, and 66.5%, in scenarios where a detected intruder had not hidden his/her face, hidden his/her face partially, fully, and was detected in the dark from 85%, 64.13%, 56.70%, and 44.01%.
Stacked PZT Discs Generate Necessary Power for Bone Healing through Electrical Stimulation in a Composite Spinal Fusion Implant
Authors: Cadel Eileen S. , Krech Ember D. , Arnold Paul M. , Friis Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2018

Electrical stimulation devices can be used as adjunct therapy to lumbar spinal fusion to promote bone healing, but their adoption has been hindered by the large battery packs necessary to provide power. Piezoelectric composite materials within a spinal interbody cage to produce power in response to physiological lumbar loads have recently been investigated. A piezoelectric macro-fiber composite spinal interbody generated sufficient power to stimulate bone growth in a pilot ovine study, despite fabrication challenges. The objective of the present study was to electromechanically evaluate three new piezoelectric disc composites, 15-disc insert, seven-disc insert, and seven-disc Compliant Layer Adaptive Composite Stack (CLACS) insert, within a spinal interbody, and validate their use for electrical stimulation and promoting bone growth. All implants were electromechanically assessed under cyclic loads of 1000 N at 2 Hz, representing physiological lumbar loading. All three configurations produced at least as much power as the piezoelectric macro-fiber composites, validating the use of piezoelectric discs for this application. Future work is needed to characterize the electromechanical performance of commercially manufactured piezoelectric stacks under physiological lumbar loads, and mechanically assess the composite implants according to FDA guidelines for lumbar interbody fusion devices.