bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimation of Moisture Content in Railway Subgrade by Ground Penetrating Radar
Authors: Liu Sixin , Lu Qi , Li Hongqing , Wang Yuanxin
Published: September 2020

China is strongly dependent on railway transportation, but the frost heaving of the subgrade in cold regions has seriously affected the safety and comfort of trains. Moisture content is an essential parameter in the subgrade frost heave. Non-destructive and efficient geophysical methods have great potential in measuring the moisture content of railway subgrade. In this paper, we use the common mid-point (CMP) measurement of ground penetrating radar (GPR) to estimate the propagation velocity of electromagnetic waves in a subgrade application. We establish a synthetic model to simulate the railway subgrade structure. The synthetic CMP gathers acquired from shallow and thin layers are seriously disturbed by multiple waves and refraction waves, which make the routine velocity analysis unable to provide accurate velocities. Through the analysis of numerical simulation results, it is found that the primary reflection waves, multiple waves, and refraction waves are dominant in different offset ranges of CMP gather. Therefore, we propose a solution of the optimal gather at a certain range of offset dominated by the primary reflection wave to calculate the velocity spectrum and extract the accurate velocities for the subgrade model. The relative dielectric constants of the corresponding layers are calculated after the stacking velocities are converted into the interval velocities. Then, the moisture content is obtained by the Topp formula, which expresses the relationship between dielectric constant and moisture content. Finally, we apply the optimal gather scheme and the above interpretation process to the GPR data acquired at the railway site, and we form a long moisture content profile of the railway subgrade. Compared with the polarizability measured by the induced polarization (IP) method, it is found that the regions with high moisture content correspond to polarizability anomalies with different strengths. The comparison shows the reliability of GPR results to some extent.
Social Distance Monitor with a Wearable Magnetic Field Proximity Sensor
Authors: Bian Sizhen , Zhou Bo , Lukowicz Paul
Published: September 2020

Social distancing and contact/exposure tracing are accepted to be critical strategies in the fight against the COVID-19 epidemic. They are both closely connected to the ability to reliably establish the degree of proximity between people in real-world environments. We proposed, implemented, and evaluated a wearable proximity sensing system based on an oscillating magnetic field that overcomes many of the weaknesses of the current state of the art Bluetooth based proximity detection. In this paper, we first described the underlying physical principle, proposed a protocol for the identification and coordination of the transmitter (which is compatible with the current smartphone-based exposure tracing protocols). Subsequently, the system architecture and implementation were described, finally an elaborate characterization and evaluation of the performance (both in systematic lab experiments and in real-world settings) were performed. Our work demonstrated that the proposed system is much more reliable than the widely-used Bluetooth-based approach, particularly when it comes to distinguishing between distances above and below the 2.0 m threshold due to the magnetic field’s physical properties.
Systems Architecture Design Pattern Catalog for Developing Digital Twins
Authors: Tekinerdogan Bedir , Verdouw Cor
Published: September 2020

A digital twin is a digital replica of a physical entity to which it is remotely connected. A digital twin can provide a rich representation of the corresponding physical entity and enables sophisticated control for various purposes. Although the concept of the digital twin is largely known, designing digital twins based systems has not yet been fully explored. In practice, digital twins can be applied in different ways leading to different architectural designs. To guide the architecture design process, we provide a pattern-oriented approach for architecting digital twin-based systems. To this end, we propose a catalog of digital twin architecture design patterns that can be reused in the broad context of systems engineering. The patterns support the various phases in the systems engineering life cycle process, and are described using a well-defined pattern documentation template. For illustrating the application of digital twin patterns, we adopt a multi-case study approach in the agriculture and food domain.
Identification of Apple Varieties Using a Multichannel Hyperspectral Imaging System
Authors: Huang Yuping , Yang Yutu , Sun Ye , Zhou Haiyan , Chen Kunjie
Published: September 2020

This paper reports the nondestructive detection of apple varieties using a multichannel hyperspectral imaging system consisting of an illumination fiber and 30 detection fibers arranged at source–detector distances of 1.5–36 mm over the spectral range of 550–1650 nm. Spatially resolved (SR) spectra were obtained for 1500 apples, 500 each of three varieties from the same orchard to avoid environmental and geographical influences. Partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA) models were developed for single SR spectra and spectral combinations to compare their performance of variety detection. To evaluate the effect of spectral range on variety detection, three types of spectra (i.e., visible region: 550–780 nm, near-infrared region: 780–1650 nm, full region: 550–1650 nm) were analyzed and compared. The results showed that the single SR spectra presented a different accuracy for apple variety classification, and the optimal SR spectra varied with spectral types. Spectral combinations had better accuracies for variety detection with best overall classifications of 99.4% for both spectral ranges in the NIR and full regions; however, the spectral combination could not improve the results over the optimal single SR spectra in the visible region. Moreover, the recognition of golden delicious (GD) was better than those of the other two varieties, with the best classification accuracy of 100% for three types of spectra. Overall, the multichannel hyperspectral imaging system provides more spatial-spectral information for the apples, and the results demonstrate that the technique gave excellent classifications, which suggests that the multichannel hyperspectral imaging system has potential for apple variety detection.
Replicating Smart Cities: The City-to-City Learning Programme in the Replicate EC-H2020-SCC Project
Authors: Calzada Igor
Published: September 2020

This article addresses the problem of replication among smart cities in the European Commission’s Horizon 2020: Smart Cities and Communities (EC-H2020-SCC) framework programme. This article initially sets the general policy context by conducting a benchmarking about the explicit replication strategies followed by each of the 17 ongoing EC-H2020-SCC lighthouse projects. This article aims to shed light on the following research question: Why might replication not be happening among smart cities as a unidirectional, hierarchical, mechanistic, solutionist, and technocratic process? Particularly, in asking so, it focuses on the EC-H2020-SCC Replicate project by examining in depth the fieldwork action research process implemented during 2019 through a knowledge exchange webinar series with participant stakeholders from six European cities—three lighthouse cities (St. Sebastian, Florence, and Bristol) and three follower-fellow cities (Essen, Lausanne, and Nilüfer). This process resulted in a City-to-City Learning Programme that reformulated the issue of replication by experimenting an alternative and an enhanced policy approach. Thus, stemming from the evidence-based policy outcomes of the City-to-City Learning Programme, this article reveals that a replication policy approach from the social innovation lenses might be enabled as a multidirectional, radial, dynamic, iterative, and democratic learning process, overcoming the given unidirectional, hierarchical, mechanistic, solutionist, and technocratic approach.
Government-Funded Sustainable Development and Professionalisation of NGOs
Authors: Rojc Štremfelj Livija , Žnidaršič Jana , Marič Miha
Published: September 2020

This paper addresses the first financial initiative of the Slovenian government for the professionalisation and development of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to promote sustainability in the third sector. The measure was the result of the Non-Governmental Organisations Act, adopted in 2018, and was followed by the Development strategy of non-governmental organisations and volunteering until 2023 (DSNGOV). The state’s contribution to an increased level of professionalisation was welcomed by NGOs because, compared to other EU28 states, which have an average employment rate of 4.18%, Slovenia is far behind, with only 0.82% of its active working population being employed in the NGO sector. In May 2018, the Ministry of Public Administration released invitations to fund projects for the development and professionalisation of NGOs and voluntary service, providing grants for 100 NGO jobs. The final project results were compiled in March 2020, and the findings were evaluated in 29 survey reports in April 2020. The research focused on the occupations for which employees were sought, legal forms of the applicant NGOs and recruitment methods. The results demonstrate that the state measure was successful, as 69% of the funded jobs were sustained. However, most of the retained jobs were filled by those who were previously employed in the NGO sector (84.6%), so the employment rate has barely risen.
Is Financial Literacy Associated with Investment in Financial Markets in the United States?
Authors: Khan Mostafa Saidur Rahim , Rabbani Naheed , Kadoya Yoshihiko
Published: September 2020

Lack of investment in financial markets is one of the enduring puzzles in empirical finance. Although recent studies ascribe the lack of investment in stocks to financial literacy, the association between financial literacy and investment in financial markets remains inconclusive. We examine whether financial literacy is associated with investment in financial markets in the United States. We use investment in stocks, futures/options, investment trusts, corporate bonds, foreign currency deposits, and government bonds of foreign currency as a proxy for investment in financial markets. Using data from the Preference Parameter Study, a nationwide panel survey conducted by Osaka University of Japan, we provide evidence that financial literacy has a significantly positive association with investment in financial markets even after controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, and psychological factors. We check the robustness of our results by using an alternative proxy for investment in financial markets. Our study has far-reaching policy implications and we conclude by suggesting the introduction of financial literacy programs into the academic curriculum. Improving financial literacy could positively impact the mobilization of household funds and contribute to capital formation.
Estimating Flood Characteristics Using Geomorphologic Flood Index with Regards to Rainfall Intensity-Duration-Frequency-Area Curves and CADDIES-2D Model in Three Iranian Basins
Authors: Faridani Farid , Bakhtiari Sirus , Faridhosseini Alireza , Gibson Micheal J. , Farmani Raziyeh , Lasaponara Rosa
Published: September 2020

There is not enough data and computational power for conventional flood mapping methods in many parts of the world, thus fast and low-data-demanding methods are very useful in facing the disaster. This paper presents an innovative procedure for estimating flood extent and depth using only DEM SRTM 30 m and the Geomorphic Flood Index (GFI). The Geomorphologic Flood Assessment (GFA) tool which is the corresponding application of the GFI in QGIS is implemented to achieved the results in three basins in Iran. Moreover, the novel concept of Intensity-Duration-Frequency-Area (IDFA) curves is introduced to modify the GFI model by imposing a constraint on the maximum hydrologically contributing area of a basin. The GFA model implements the linear binary classification algorithm to classify a watershed into flooded and non-flooded areas using an optimized GFI threshold that minimizes the errors with a standard flood map of a small region in the study area. The standard hydraulic model envisaged for this study is the Cellular Automata Dual-DraInagE Simulation (CADDIES) 2D model which employs simple transition rules and a weight-based system rather than complex shallow water equations allowing fast flood modelling for large-scale problems. The results revealed that the floodplains generated by the GFI has a good agreement with the standard maps, especially in the fluvial rivers. However, the performance of the GFI decreases in the less steep and alluvial rivers. With some overestimation, the GFI model is also able to capture the general trend of water depth variations in comparison with the CADDIES-2D flood depth map. The modifications made in the GFI model, to confine the maximum precipitable area through implementing the IDFAs, improved the classification of flooded area and estimation of water depth in all study areas. Finally, the calibrated GFI thresholds were used to achieve the complete 100-year floodplain maps of the study areas.
A New Operational Matrices-Based Spectral Method for Multi-Order Fractional Problems
Authors: Hamid M. , Foong Oi Mean , Usman Muhammad , Khan Ilyas , Wang Wei
Published: September 2020

The operational matrices-based computational algorithms are the promising tools to tackle the problems of non-integer derivatives and gained a substantial devotion among the scientific community. Here, an accurate and efficient computational scheme based on another new type of polynomial with the help of collocation method (CM) is presented for different nonlinear multi-order fractional differentials (NMOFDEs) and Bagley–Torvik (BT) equations. The methods are proposed utilizing some new operational matrices of derivatives using Chelyshkov polynomials (CPs) through Caputo’s sense. Two different ways are adopted to construct the approximated (AOM) and exact (EOM) operational matrices of derivatives for integer and non-integer orders and used to propose an algorithm. The understudy problems have been transformed to an equivalent nonlinear algebraic equations system and solved by means of collocation method. The proposed computational method is authenticated through convergence and error-bound analysis. The exactness and effectiveness of said method are shown on some fractional order physical problems. The attained outcomes are endorsing that the recommended method is really accurate, reliable and efficient and could be used as suitable tool to attain the solutions for a variety of the non-integer order differential equations arising in applied sciences.
Pattern Recognition of Different Window Size Control Charts Based on Convolutional Neural Network and Information Fusion
Authors: Zan Tao , Su Zifeng , Liu Zhihao , Chen Deyin , Wang Min , Gao Xiangsheng
Published: September 2020

Control charts are an important tool for statistical process control (SPC). SPC has the characteristics of fluctuation and asymmetry in the symmetrical coordinate system. It is a graph with control limits used to analyze and judge whether the process is in a stable state. Its fast and accurate identification is of great significance to the actual production. The existing control chart pattern recognition (CCPR) method can only recognize a control chart with fixed window size, but cannot adjust with different window sizes according to the actual production needs. In order to solve these problems and improve the quality management effect in the manufacturing process, a new CCPR method is proposed based on convolutional neural network (CNN) and information fusion. After undergoing feature learning, CNN is used to extract the best feature set from the control chart, while at the same time, expert features (including one shape features and four statistical features) are fused to complete the CCPR. In this paper, the control charts of 10 different window sizes are generated by the Monte Carlo simulation method, and various data patterns are drawn into images, then the CCPR model is set up. Finally, simulation experiments and a real example are addressed to validate its feasibility and effectiveness. The results of simulation experiments demonstrate that the recognition method based on CNN can be used for pattern recognition for different window size control charts, and its recognition accuracy is higher than the traditional ones. In addition, the recognition method based on information fusion performs much better. The result of a real example shows that the method has potential application in solving the pattern recognition problem of control charts with different window sizes.
Venom Ophthalmia and Ocular Complications Caused by Snake Venom
Authors: Chang Kun-Che , Huang Yu-Kai , Chen Yen-Wen , Chen Min-Hui , Tu Anthony T. , Chen Yen-Chia
Published: September 2020

Little is known about the detailed clinical description, pathophysiology, and efficacy of treatments for ocular envenoming (venom ophthalmia) caused by venom of the spitting elapid and other snakes, as well as ocular complications caused by snake venom injection. In this paper, we review clinical information of case reports regarding venom ophthalmia and snake venom injection with associated ocular injuries in Asia, Africa, and the United States. We also review the literature of snake venom such as their compositions, properties, and toxic effects. Based on the available clinical information and animal studies, we further discuss possible mechanisms of venom ophthalmia derived from two different routes (Duvernoy’s gland in the mouth and nuchal gland in the dorsal neck) and the pathophysiology of snake venom injection induced ocular complications, including corneal edema, corneal erosion, cataract, ocular inflammation, retinal hemorrhage, acute angle closure glaucoma, as well as ptosis, diplopia, and photophobia. Finally, we discuss the appropriate first aid and novel strategies for treating venom ophthalmia and snake envenoming.
Prevalence of Feline Coronavirus Shedding in German Catteries and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Klein-Richers Ute , Hartmann Katrin , Hofmann-Lehmann Regina , Unterer Stefan , Bergmann Michèle , Rieger Anna , Leutenegger Christian , Pantchev Nikola , Balzer Jörg , Felten Sandra
Published: September 2020

The aim of this prospective study was to determine prevalence and potential risk factors of feline coronavirus (FCoV) shedding. Four consecutive fecal samples of 179 cats from 37 German breeding catteries were analyzed for FCoV ribonucleic acid (RNA) by real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Prevalence of shedding was calculated using different numbers of fecal samples per cat (1–4) and different sampling intervals (5–28 days). Information on potential risk factors for FCoV shedding was obtained by a questionnaire. Risk factor analysis was performed using a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM). Most cats (137/179, 76.5%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 69.8–82.2) shed FCoV at least at once. None of the tested 37 catteries was free of FCoV. Prevalence calculated including all four (76.5%, 95% CI 69.8–82.2) or the last three (73.7%, 95% CI 66.8–79.7) samples per cat was significantly higher than the prevalence calculated with only the last sample (61.5%, 95% CI 54.2–68.3; p = 0.0029 and 0.0175, respectively). Young age was significantly associated with FCoV shedding while the other factors were not. For identification of FCoV shedders in multi-cat households, at least three fecal samples per cat should be analyzed. Young age is the most important risk factor for FCoV shedding.
Defining New Pathways to Manage the Ongoing Emergence of Bat Rabies in Latin America
Authors: Benavides Julio A. , Valderrama William , Recuenco Sergio , Uieda Wilson , Suzán Gerardo , Avila-Flores Rafael , Velasco-Villa Andres , Almeida Marilene , Andrade Fernanda A.G. de , Molina-Flores Baldomero , Vigilato Marco Antonio Natal , Pompei Julio Cesar Augusto , Tizzani Paolo , Carrera Jorge E. , Ibanez Darcy , Streicker Daniel G.
Published: September 2020

Rabies transmitted by common vampire bats (Desmodus rotundus) has been known since the early 1900s but continues to expand geographically and in the range of species and environments affected. In this review, we present current knowledge of the epidemiology and management of rabies in D. rotundus and argue that it can be reasonably considered an emerging public health threat. We identify knowledge gaps related to the landscape determinants of the bat reservoir, reduction in bites on humans and livestock, and social barriers to prevention. We discuss how new technologies including autonomously-spreading vaccines and reproductive suppressants targeting bats might manage both rabies and undesirable growth of D. rotundus populations. Finally, we highlight widespread under-reporting of human and animal mortality and the scarcity of studies that quantify the efficacy of control measures such as bat culling. Collaborations between researchers and managers will be crucial to implement the next generation of rabies management in Latin America.
Healthcare Workers Training Courses on Vaccinations: A Flexible Format Easily Adaptable to Different Healthcare Settings
Authors: Serino Laura , Maurici Massimo , D’Alò Gian Loreto , Amadori Fabiana , Terracciano Elisa , Zaratti Laura , Franco Elisabetta ,   Local Health Units Vaccination Group
Published: September 2020

Since 2017, Italy has expanded the compulsory vaccination from 4 to 10 for those aged 0 to 16 years. Because of the great organizational effort required for the immunization services, minor attention was given to the vaccinations not included among the mandatory ones. This situation led to a real difficulty in harmonizing the vaccination procedures even inside a single region. In the Lazio region, the Laboratory of Vaccinology of the University of Rome Tor Vergata established a working group to create a new training model for healthcare professionals. The course program proposed an update of three vaccinations which are not mandatory but actively offered. It included the same part of scientific updating and a variable part based on local experiences. A specific anonymous questionnaire on knowledge and attitude was administered. The study aimed to propose a general format of training courses for vaccination centers adaptable to the individual local health units (ASLs) and to evaluate through questionnaires. The results show differences in knowledge and attitudes toward non-mandatory vaccinations among the ASLs of Lazio, confirming the usefulness of a support to make knowledge and procedures homogeneous. This model could be adapted to any healthcare setting and exported to other services.
A Study on the Influence of Tire Speed and Pressure on Measurement Parameters Obtained from High-Speed Tire Uniformity Testing
Authors: Du Meng , Sun Pengfei , Zhou Shuiting , Huang Hongwu , Zhu Jie
Published: September 2020

In order to improve the test conditions of the tire uniformity test and the effect of the speed and tire pressure on the uniformity parameters, the uniformity test of the tire under different speeds and tire pressure was carried out by a high-speed uniformity test machine, and the experimental data were analyzed and fitted by the regression analysis method. This paper introduces the definition of uniformity and the uniformity parameters of automotive tires; the working principle of a high-speed uniformity testing machine is briefly described, a mathematical model of the uniformity testing machine is established, and the signal acquisition process of the tire uniformity parameters and the calculation method of the uniformity parameters are described. The test result indicates: As the speed increases, the radial force fluctuation, lateral force fluctuation, tangential force fluctuation, and turning torque fluctuation of the tire increase, and the positive torque fluctuation first increases and then decreases; with the increase of tire pressure, the radial force fluctuation and the tangential force fluctuation of the tire increase, and the lateral force fluctuation, the turning torque fluctuation, and the returning moment fluctuation are all reduced. Compared to the low speed uniformity test, the high speed uniformity test can better reflect the uniformity of the tire, reducing the speed of the vehicle can reduce the radial runout and lateral sway of the tire; increasing the tire pressure can reduce the left and right swing of the vehicle.
Seasonality of Nosema ceranae Infections and Their Relationship with Honey Bee Populations, Food Stores, and Survivorship in a North American Region
Authors: Emsen Berna , De la Mora Alvaro , Lacey Brian , Eccles Les , Kelly Paul G. , Medina-Flores Carlos A. , Petukhova Tatiana , Morfin Nuria , Guzman-Novoa Ernesto
Published: September 2020

Nosema ceranae is an emerging pathogen of the western honey bee (Apis mellifera L.), and thus its seasonality and impact on bee colonies is not sufficiently documented for North America. This study was conducted to determine the infection intensity, prevalence, and viability of N. ceranae in >200 honey bee colonies during spring, summer, and fall, in a North American region. We also determined the relationship of N. ceranae infections with colony populations, food stores, bee survivorship, and overwinter colony mortality. The highest rates of N. ceranae infection, prevalence, and spore viability were found in the spring and summer, while the lowest were recorded in the fall. N. ceranae spore viability was significantly correlated with its prevalence and infection intensity in bees. Threshold to high levels of N. ceranae infections (>1,000,000 spores/bee) were significantly associated with reduced bee populations and food stores in colonies. Furthermore, worker bee survivorship was significantly reduced by N. ceranae infections, although no association between N. ceranae and winter colony mortality was found. It is concluded that N. ceranae infections are highest in spring and summer and may be detrimental to honey bee populations and colony productivity. Our results support the notion that treatment is justified when infections of N. ceranae exceed 1,000,000 spores/bee.
Using Coffee Pulp as Bioadsorbent for the Removal of Manganese (Mn (II)) from Synthetic Wastewater
Authors: Gómez Aguilar Dora Luz , Rodríguez Miranda Juan Pablo , Baracaldo Guzmán Deisy , Esteban Muñoz Javier Andrés
Published: September 2020

This research focuses on the removal of contaminants from wastewaters as a matter of great interest in the field of water pollution. The first decades of the 21st century have brought numerous approaches for the development of cheaper and more effective adsorbents capable of eliminating heavy metals. The study aims to examine the way coffee pulp (Castilla variety from Caldas, Colombia) was used as a bioadsorbent for the removal of Mn (II) from synthetic wastewater to fulfill goals 3 and 6 proposed in the Sustainable Development Goals stated for the 2030 Agenda, particularly in Sections 3.9 and 6.9. In order to achieve this objective, the agricultural residue was subjected to bromatological characterization, determination of the lignocellulosic composition, and identification of characteristic organic functional groups through IR spectrophotometry, using the ATR (attenuated total reflection) technique. Additionally, the optimal parameters for contaminant removal were identified, regarding the biomass quantity, the optimum pH, the stirring time, the adsorption kinetics, the zero charge potential (pHpzc), the adsorption isotherms, and the explanation of the possible adsorption mechanisms between the contaminant, the surface of the coffee pulp, and the capacity of maximum adsorption. The results show that lignocellulosic material presented a cellulose content of 29.93 ± 0.21% and a lignin content of 19.25 ± 0.16%. The optimum parameters found were as follows: Particle size of 180 µm, contact time from 90 min to 100 RPM, optimum pH of 4.0 pH units, room temperature; the kinetic model adjusted to the bioadsorption process was Ho and McKay’s pseudo-second-order, under an isotherm of the Langmuir model, for which the removal presented was 53.40%, with a maximum adsorption capacity of 8.01 mg·g−1. Finally, the novelty of the reported research consists of using coffee pulp as a bioadsorbent without chemical modification, for the removal of heavy metals, in this case Mn (II), in industrial wastewater, which would be another application of this coffee by-product.
Precipitation Characteristics of an Abrupt Heavy Rainfall Event over the Complex Terrain of Southwest China Observed by the FY-4A Satellite and Doppler Weather Radar
Authors: Li Shanshan , Li Guoping , Wang Xiaofang , Li Chao , Liu Haizhi , Li Gang
Published: September 2020

On 22 July 2019, mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) with an abrupt heavy rainfall event (AHRE) hit Shuicheng County of Guizhou Province in Southwest China causing landslide and debris flow secondary disasters. The AHRE over the complex terrain of Shuicheng County had differences in location and intensity during two stages of the event. The two stages could be divided into different rainfall types (topographic rainfall and synoptic-weather-related rainfall) according to the spatiotemporal distribution and organization of MCSs based on surface and midlevel environmental field conditions. During the topographic rainfall stage, smaller meso-γ-scale (2–20 km) convective cells with lower echo-top heights (6–10 km) occurred along the windward slope of the primary mountain peak. During the synoptic-weather-related rainfall stage, a meso-β-scale (20–200 km) convective echo band with higher echo-top heights (10–14 km) occurred in the valley of the region. An adverse wind area (AWA) with distinct convergence of radar radial velocity existed over Shuicheng County. A formation mechanism analysis of the AHRE showed that topographic rainfall occurred in the warm and moist area, while synoptic-weather-related rainfall occurred due to local convergence and the intrusion of a cold tongue. Compared to the early stage, the cold tongue from the higher terrain superimposed over the warm sector at the base of major mountain ranges appeared to strengthen the rainfall.
Coastal Engineers Embrace Nature: Characterizing the Metamorphosis in Hydraulic Engineering in Terms of Four Continua
Authors: Slinger Jill H. , Vreugdenhil Heleen S. I.
Published: September 2020

Hydraulic engineering infrastructures, such as reservoirs, dikes, breakwaters, and inlet closures, have significantly impacted ecosystem functioning over the last two centuries. Currently, nature-based solutions are receiving increasing attention in hydraulic engineering projects and research programs. However, there is a lack of reflection on the concomitant, fundamental changes occurring in the field of hydraulic engineering, and coastal engineering in particular, and what this could mean for sustainability. In this article, we signal the shift from conventional to ecosystem-based hydraulic engineering design and characterize this in terms of four continua: (i) the degree of inclusion of ecological knowledge, (ii) the extent to which the full infrastructural lifecycle is addressed, (iii) the complexity of the actor arena taken into account, and (iv) the resulting form of the infrastructural artefact. We support our arguments with two carefully selected, iconic examples from the Netherlands and indicate how the stretching ideals of ecosystem-based engineering could engender further shifts towards sustainability.
The use of acidifying agents Aquasafe and Veleguard when rearing of broiler chickens
Authors: Gamko L. , Tarinskaya T.
Published: September 2020

It is known that necessary to replace the components of organic acids, which are part of acidifiers when drinking water to poultry in order to prevent the adaptation of microbes in the gastrointestinal tract. In the poultry industry organic acids are widely used, which are used as acidifiers to preserve the properties of water consumed. The purpose of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of broiler meat production when using acidifying agents of drinking water Aquasafe and Veleguard. The experimental part of the work has been performed in JSC “Kurinoe Tsarstvo-Bryansk” broiler area “Roshcha” in the Pochepsky district. The object of research was the livestock of broiler chickens cross Cobb 500 at floor housing. The effect of water acidifiers on meat productivity has been studied. Groups of chickens have been formed on the principle of pairs-analogues. Broiler chickens of experimental groups have been separated from the main livestock by a grid in the corner of the room for 100 heads in each group. It has been found by a result of research to be optimal dose usage of acidifying agents water Aquasafe and Veleguard to drink to broiler chickens. The positive effect of these acidifiers on the digestion of crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, contributing to the effective use of nitrogen, which led to an increase in the intensity of growth, young animals’ livability and improved feed conversion. Slaughter yield in the control group was 55,1 %, and in the experimental group 57,2 and 58,4 %, which was by 2,1 and 3,3 % higher with the same level of metabolic energy and nutrients. In chickens that consumed acidifi ers more intensively used nutrients feed for deposition in the body of the components of the carcass, which affected the production. A positive impact of acidifying agents Aquasafe and Veleguard on meat quality in broiler chickens has been found.
The use of feed additives «MegaStimImmuno» and Herbafarm L in feeding of young pigs
Authors: Gorlov I. , Komlatsky G. , Cheruvimskikh E.
Published: September 2020

It is known that without addressing the issues of balanced feeding other measures for the development of pig breeding do not give the necessary effect. One of the promising directions of improving the productivity of pigs and to increase the volume of production of raw materials in industrial technology may be the use of biologically active additives that improve the palatability of feed, promote the metabolism, and increase body resistance. Complex researches on scientific substantiation and experimental confi rmation of high effectiveness of innovative feed additives “MegaStimImmuno” and Herbafarm L in feeding of young pigs when pork production have been carried out. The use of feed additives “MegaStimImmuno” and Herbafarm L in the diets of young pigs contributes to the normalization and activation of protein, carbohydrate and mineral metabolism, strengthen immunity and ultimately increase the productivity of animals and improve the biological value and technological properties of meat of young pigs. The analysis of the data has been obtained to estimate the growth intensity in terms of the average daily gain of young pigs confirmed the established pattern. For the entire period of rearing and fattening animals (5–167 days) in the 1st experimental group daily gain 678,80 g has been obtained an average, which was by 49,7 g or 7,90 % (P < 0,001), in the 2nd experimental 664,45 g, which was by 35,29 g or 5,61 % (P < 0,001) higher than in the control group. The positive influence of biologically active feed additives on consumption, digestibility, metabolism of nutrients in young pigs, hematological parameters, productivity, quality of meat and fat has been established.
Zootechnical and economic evaluation of the use of energy additives in the rations of highly productive cows
Authors: Mikolaychik I. , Morozova L. , Kostomakhin N. , Bulygina E.
Published: September 2020

In order to compensate for the lack of energy in the ration of lactating cows, optimize carbohydrate metabolism and maintain health, specialized feed additives are often used, which include components that make up for or stimulate metabolic processes during metabolism, which reduces the accumulation of ketone bodies. The researches have been carried out in CJSC Glinki in the Kurgan region (Russia). The cows of Black-and-White breed were as the object of research. The purpose of the research was to provide practical justifi cation for the use of modern energy additives in the rations of highly productive cows during the period of increasing the milk yield. It has been found in the course of the conducted research that the cows of the 1st experimental group received in addition to the main ration the energy feed additive Enermix plus in the amount of 250 g/head/day milk yield of natural fat content was highest and exceeded by 273,42 kg or 7,59 % (P < 0,05) of the control group’s herdmates. It has been found in terms of milk at 4 % fat content that for 100 days of lactation 3915,03 kg of milk has been received from cows of the 1st experimental group, which was by 332,55 kg or 9,28 % (P < 0,05) more than from analogues of the control group. At the same time, the yield of milk fat in the milk of cows of the 1st experimental group was 157,67 kg, which was more than the same indicator of cows of the control group by 14,88 kg or 10,42 % (P < 0,05). It has been found that additional feeding of highly productive cows of Black-and-White breed of energy feed additive of domestic production Enermix plus in the dose of 250 g/head/day increases the level of their milk productivity and has a positive infl uence on the composition of milk and economic indicators of production.
The effectiveness of using the probiotic drug “Baikal EM 1” in their rations of cows
Authors: Farkhutdinova A. , Malikova M.
Published: September 2020

Among feed additives, probiotics used in animal husbandry are of great interest, containing live microorganisms that belong to the normal, physiologically justifi ed microfl ora of the intestinal tract and have a positive eff ect on the animal’s body. Newly created drugs (eff ective microorganisms – EM-drugs) are a set of microorganisms that have a benefi cial eff ect, clean all living things from pathogenic microfl ora and harmful chemical compounds. The purpose of the work was to establish the optimal doses of feeding the probiotic drug “Baikal EM 1” in the rations of dry and lactating cows in connection with the eff ectiveness of milk production. The researches have been carried out on cows of Black-and-White breed in the NE “Ufi mskoe” of the Bashkir Scientifi c and Research Institute of Agriculture, where the feed base and the condition of the production facilities met the veterinary requirements. The optimal dose and methods of application of the drug “Baikal EM 1” of probiotic action in the rations of cows in the Republic of Bashkortostan have been determined and tested. The positive infl uence of the probiotic drug on the processes of rumen digestion, digestibility and assimilation of nutrients, physiological and biochemical status, milk productivity, reproductive functions, the quality of the off spring and its livability has been established. The eff ect of using the drug “Baikal EM 1” in diff erent dosages on hematological parameters, digestibility and assimilation of nutrients, and nitrogen metabolism has been studied. The economic justifi cation of the use of the probiotic drug “Baikal EM 1” in the rations of cows has been given. It has been found that the most eff ective from the zootechnical, biological and economic points of view is to use the probiotic drug “Baikal EM 1” in the dose of 50 ml/head/day.
Mineral feed additives in the rations of lactating cows
Authors: Sukhanova S. , Uskov G. , Leshchuk T. , Pozdnyakova N. , Yaroslavtsev V. , Tsibulsky I.
Published: September 2020

Scientists of the Kurgan State Agricultural Academy named after T. S. Maltsev conduct research on the development of diff erent feed additives and compound feeds, their use in feeding animals and poultry. It has been developed mineral additives, which used mineral components to meet the needs of macro- and microelements of cows during lactation. The purpose of the work was to solve the problem of lack of minerals in animal husbandry by preparing granular feed additives based on raw materials of domestic production, enriched with trace element salts. Feeding of experimental mineral additives positively aff ected the average daily milk yield already in the 1st month of lactation. Thus, in the 1st experimental group more milk has been obtained by 0.6 % and in the 2nd group by 1.9 % compared to the control one. In the 2nd month of lactation milk yield in the 1st experimental group was greater by 2.3 %, and in the 2nd experimental group – 4.0 % compared to the control group. The same trend has been observed in the following months: in the 3rd month of lactation the diff erence in milk yield compared to the control group was in the 1st experimental group 4.0 %, in the 2nd experimental group – 6.5 %, in the 4th month, respectively, 5.7 and 9.3 %. Milk yield for 120 days of lactation in cows of the control group was 2951.4 kg of milk (in terms of 4 % fat content) in the 1st experimental group more by 3.4 %, and in the 2nd experimental group by 6.2 %. The fat content in the milk of cows of the experimental groups was higher by 0.03 and 0.04 abs.%, and protein by 0.02 and 0.03 abs.%, respectively. In this regard, the sale price of 1 kg of milk has changed. In the control group it amounted to 21,48 rubles, in the 1st experimental group more by 0,7 %, and in the 2nd group by 1,0 %. This led to an increase in the profi tability of milk production: in the 1st experimental group by 4,5 %, and in the 2nd experimental group by 6,8 %. Consequently, the feeding of new mineral additives allowed to reduce the prime-cost of milk, increase milk productivity of cows and profi tability of milk production.
The content and conduct of GP consultations for dermatology problems: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Le Roux Emma , Edwards Peter J , Sanderson Emily , Barnes Rebecca K , Ridd Matthew J
Published: September 2020

Background

Skin complaints are common in primary care, and poor outcomes in long-term conditions are often due to low adherence to treatment. Shared decision making and self-management support may help, yet there is little understanding of patient involvement or the support provided by GPs.

Aim

To describe the content of primary care consultations for skin problems, including shared decision making practice, delivery of self-management advice, and follow-up.

Design and setting

Cross-sectional study of video-recorded UK adult GP consultations and linked data.

Method

A coding tool was developed and applied to all consultations with skin problems. Shared decision making was assessed using the observer OPTION5 scale.

Results

A total of 45/318 consultations (14.2%) related to one or more skin problems, which were discussed alongside other problems in 71.1% (32/45) of consultations. Of the 100 different problems discussed in these consultations, 51 were dermatological. The mean amount of time spent on skin problems in the consultations was 4 minutes 16 seconds. Medication was recommended for 66.7% (34/51) of skin problems, with low shared decision making (mean OPTION5 score = 10.7). Self-management advice (verbal only) was given for 47.1% (24/51) of skin problems. Most skin problems (84.3%; 43/51) were not referred to secondary care; 32.6% (14/43) of the skin problems not referred were seen again in primary care within 12 weeks, of which 35.7% (5/14) follow-up appointments were not planned.

Conclusion

In this study, skin problems were usually presented alongside other complaints and resulted in a medication recommendation. Shared decision making was uncommon and self-management advice not consistently given, with re-attendance for the same problem common. GPs’ training should reflect how frequently skin problems are seen and seek to improve patient involvement in decision making and support self-management.
Alifta Ainurrochmah, Perbandinga
Authors: Ainurrochmah Alifta , Hayati Memi Nor , Satriya Andi M. Ade
Published: September 2020

Classification is a technique to form a model of data that is already known to its classification group. The model was formed will be used to classify new objects. Fisher discriminant analysis is multivariate technique to separate objects in different groups. Naive Bayes is a classification technique based on probability and Bayes theorem with assumption of independence. This research has a goal to compare the level of classification accuracy between Fisher's discriminant analysis and Naive Bayes method on the insurance premium payment status customer. The data used four independent variables that is income, age, premium payment period and premium payment amount. The results of misclassification using the APER (Apparent Rate Error) indicate that the naive Bayes method has a higher level of accuracy is 15,38% than Fisher’s discriminant analysis is 46,15% on the insurance premium payment status customer.
In Memoriam: A tribute to Choule Sonu
Authors: Leidersdorf Craig
Published: September 2020

On 29 May 2020, the coastal engineering community lost one of its few remaining pioneers with the passing of Choule Joseph Sonu at the age of 90. At various times a refugee, researcher, educator, and engineering practitioner, he approached life with the conviction that all problems are solvable.
Ex-Migrant Workers’ Sisterhood: Case Study on ‘Desbumi’ and ‘Desmigratif’ Programs in Wonosobo District
Authors: Evi Zulyani , Arista Yovi , Maulida Safina , Rahadian Arief
Published: September 2020

Ex-migrant workers are often found dealing with the lack of union that could cater their needs. These people that are mostly female are often excluded from the process of decision making in their own villages. In 2013, a program from civil society organization called Desbumi (Desa Peduli Buruh Migran or Migrant Workers Care Village) Initiative was launched in Wonosobo District, with the aim to improve migrant workers’ living conditions - especially female - through empowering female ex-migrant workers group. In 2016, a similar program called Desmigratif (Desa Migran Produktif or Productive Migrants Village) Initiative was spearheaded by the Ministry of Manpower, which shares the same goal with Desbumi Initiative. Building upon the debates surrounding the concept of sisterhood provided by Bell Hooks and Robin Morgan, this study discusses whether the top-down approach in organizing female ex-migrant workers residing in Kuripan, Lipursari, Rogojati, and Sindupaten Village through Desbumi and Desmigratif initiative could result in any forms of sisterhood formed during the implementation of the programs, and challenges that they faced along the way. This study found that characteristics associated with sisterhood of friendships were apparent in all female ex-migrant groups, signified by mutual support among women, shared experience, journey of self-discovery, and collective identity built upon similarities. On the discussion of challenges, several obstacles such as lack of regeneration, women’s domestic burden, and the issue of sustainability appeared along the journey of the sisterhood of ex-migrant workers.

 