bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Classification of Global Land Development Phases by Forest and GDP Changes for Appropriate Land Management in the Mid-Latitude
Authors: Song Cholho , Kim Sea , Moon Jooyeon , Lee Soo , Lee Wona , Kim Nahui , Wang Sonam , Lee Woo-Kyun
Published: August 2017

To implement appropriate land management strategies, it is essential to identify past and current land cover and land use conditions. In addition, an assessment of land development phases (LDPs) in a human-dominated landscape coupled with an analysis of the water-food-ecosystem (WFE) nexus can deepen our understanding of sustainable land management. In this study, we proposed the concept of land development phases (LDPs) by forest and GDP changes using previously-applied theoretical and empirical approaches. The positive relationship between GDP growth and forest stock changes was used to analyze the timing of forest stock changes as five-year averages, which were aggregated over 20 years to classify LDPs. In addition, forest area changes compared with GDP and GDP per capita changes were analyzed to identify LDPs. Based on two conceptual approaches, we suggested global land into three LDPs: degradation, restoration and sustainability. Using this approach, most of Europe, North America and northeast Asia were classified as sustainability phases, while Africa and Central Asia in the Mid-Latitude region appeared to have degradation or restoration phases. The LDPs described could be improved with further incorporation of solid data analysis and clear standards, but even at this stage, these LDP classifications suggest points for implementing appropriate land management. In addition, indices from comparative analysis of the LDPs with the WFE nexus can be connected with socio-economic global indices, such as the Global Hunger Index, the Food Production Index and the Climate Change Performance Index. The LDPs have the potential to facilitate appropriate land management strategies through integrating WFE nexus and ecosystem services; we propose future research that uses this integration for the Mid-Latitude region and worldwide.
Group Decision-Making for Hesitant Fuzzy Sets Based on Characteristic Objects Method
Authors: Faizi Shahzad , Sałabun Wojciech , Rashid Tabasam , Wątróbski Jarosław , Zafar Sohail
Published: August 2017

There are many real-life problems that, because of the need to involve a wide domain of knowledge, are beyond a single expert. This is especially true for complex problems. Therefore, it is usually necessary to allocate more than one expert to a decision process. In such situations, we can observe an increasing importance of uncertainty. In this paper, the Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) method called the Characteristic Objects Method (COMET) is extended to solve problems for Multi-Criteria Group Decision-Making (MCGDM) in a hesitant fuzzy environment. It is a completely new idea for solving problems of group decision-making under uncertainty. In this approach, we use L-R-type Generalized Fuzzy Numbers (GFNs) to get the degree of hesitancy for an alternative under a certain criterion. Therefore, the classical COMET method was adapted to work with GFNs in group decision-making problems. The proposed extension is presented in detail, along with the necessary background information. Finally, an illustrative numerical example is provided to elaborate the proposed method with respect to the support of a decision process. The presented extension of the COMET method, as opposed to others’ group decision-making methods, is completely free of the rank reversal phenomenon, which is identified as one of the most important MCDM challenges.
A Motif in the F Homomorph of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus Polymerase Is Important for the Subcellular Localisation of the Protein and Its Ability to Induce Redistribution of Golgi Membranes
Authors: Urakova Nadya , Warden Andrew , White Peter , Strive Tanja , Frese Michael
Published: August 2017

Rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV) is a calicivirus that infects and frequently kills rabbits. Previously, we showed that the RHDV RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) is associated with distinct, but yet uncharacterised subcellular structures and is capable of inducing a redistribution of Golgi membranes. In this study, we identified a partially hidden hydrophobic motif that determines the subcellular localisation of recombinant RHDV RdRp in transfected cells. This novel motif, 189LLWGCDVGVAVCAAAVFHNICY210, is located within the F homomorph, between the conserved F3 and A motifs of the core RdRp domain. Amino acid substitutions that decrease the hydrophobicity of this motif reduced the ability of the protein to accumulate in multiple subcellular foci and to induce a rearrangement of the Golgi network. Furthermore, preliminary molecular dynamics simulations suggest that the RHDV RdRp could align with the negatively charged surfaces of biological membranes and undergo a conformational change involving the F homomorph. These changes would expose the newly identified hydrophobic motif so it could immerse itself into the outer leaflet of intracellular membranes.
Rous Sarcoma Virus RNA Stability Element Inhibits Deadenylation of mRNAs with Long 3′UTRs
Authors: Balagopal Vidya , Beemon Karen
Published: August 2017

All retroviruses use their full-length primary transcript as the major mRNA for Group-specific antigen (Gag) capsid proteins. This results in a long 3′ untranslated region (UTR) downstream of the termination codon. In the case of Rous sarcoma virus (RSV), there is a 7 kb 3′UTR downstream of the gag terminator, containing the pol, env, and src genes. mRNAs containing long 3′UTRs, like those with premature termination codons, are frequently recognized by the cellular nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) machinery and targeted for degradation. To prevent this, RSV has evolved an RNA stability element (RSE) in the RNA immediately downstream of the gag termination codon. This 400-nt RNA sequence stabilizes premature termination codons (PTCs) in gag. It also stabilizes globin mRNAs with long 3′UTRs, when placed downstream of the termination codon. It is not clear how the RSE stabilizes the mRNA and prevents decay. We show here that the presence of RSE inhibits deadenylation severely. In addition, the RSE also impairs decapping (DCP2) and 5′-3′ exonucleolytic (XRN1) function in knockdown experiments in human cells.
Impact of initial medication non-adherence on use of healthcare services and sick leave: a longitudinal study in a large primary care cohort in Spain
Authors: Aznar-Lou Ignacio , Fernández Ana , Gil-Girbau Montserrat , Sabés-Figuera Ramón , Fajó-Pascual Marta , Peñarrubia-María María Teresa , Serrano-Blanco Antoni , Moreno-Peral Patricia , Sánchez-Niubó Albert , March-Pujol Marian , Rubio-Valera Maria
Published: August 2017

Background

Initial medication non-adherence is highly prevalent in primary care but no previous studies have evaluated its impact on the use of healthcare services and/or days on sick leave.

Aim

To estimate the impact of initial medication non-adherence on the use of healthcare services, days of sick leave, and costs overall and in specific medication groups.

Design and setting

A 3-year longitudinal register-based study of all primary care patients (a cohort of 1.7 million) who were prescribed a new medication in Catalonia (Spain) in 2012.

Method

Thirteen of the most prescribed and/or costly medication subgroups were considered. All medication and medication subgroups (chronic, analgesics, and penicillin) were analysed. The number of healthcare services used and days on sick leave were considered. Multilevel multivariate linear regression was used. Three levels were included: patient, GP, and primary care centre.

Results

Initially adherent patients made more use of medicines and some healthcare services than non-adherent and partially adherent patients. They had lower productivity losses, producing a net economic return, especially when drugs for acute diseases (such as penicillins) were considered. Initial medication non-adherence resulted in a higher economic burden to the system in the short term.

Conclusion

Initial medication non-adherence seems to have a short-term impact on productivity losses and costs. The clinical consequences and long-term economic consequences of initial medication non-adherence need to be assessed. Interventions to promote initial medication adherence in primary care may reduce costs and improve health outcomes.
Effects of nandrolone decanoate on time to consolidation of bone defects resulting from osteotomy for tibial tuberosity advancement
Authors: Ibañez José , Freitas Itallo , Hespanha Ana , Monteiro Juliana , Eggert Mayara , Becker Amanda , Marques Danilo
Published: August 2017

Study design: Experimental study.

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of nandrolone decanoate (ND) on the time taken for bone consolidation in dogs undergoing tibial tuberosity advancement surgery (TTA).

Materials and methods: Seventeen dogs that underwent TTA surgery were randomly divided into two groups: group C (TTA; 9 stifles), and group TTA+ND (TTA and systemic administration of ND; 8 stifles). Three observers (two radiologists and an orthopaedic surgeon), assessed bone consolidation by visual inspection of serial radiographs at intervals of 21 days following surgery.

Results: There were no differences in median weight and age between groups, nor between the medians of the variables right and left stifle. Only weight and age values were normally distributed. The other variables, right and left stifle and time to consolidation, showed non-normal distribution. Meniscal injury was present in all animals in group C and all animals in group TTA+ND. There was a significant difference between time to consolidation in groups C and TTA+ND (p <0.05). One animal in the group TTA+ND showed increased libido. Kappa agreement among observers on radiographs was 0.87.

Conclusion: Administration of ND reduces time to bone consolidation in dogs undergoing TTA.

Supplementary Material for this article is available online at https://doi.org/10.3415/VCOT-16-09-0130
Efficacy of an oral nutraceutical for the treatment of canine osteo arthritis
Authors: Evans Richard , Conzemius Michael , Scott Ruth
Published: August 2017

Objectives: To assess the safety and efficacy of an orally administered nutraceutical (Glu/ CS+; + for additional ingredient) for the treatment of clinical osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs.

Methods: In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial, client-owned dogs with clinical signs of OA in one or more joints were assigned to a Glu/CS+ (n = 30) or placebo (n = 30) group. Dogs were administered Glu/CS+ or placebo orally and wore an activity monitor (AM) continuously throughout a 97 day study period. Prior to the initiation of the treatment, seven days of baseline activity was collected. On days –7, 30, 60 and 90 of the study, owners completed a patient assessment form (Canine Brief Pain Inventory). Data between groups were compared.

Results: No serious adverse events were reported. No difference was found between groups when evaluating daily activity counts during the seven-day pre-treatment period and the 90-day treatment period. Owner assessment (pain interference and pain severity scores) improved over the 90-day treatment period for both groups, however no difference was found between treatment groups. Conclusions: Treatment with oral Glu/CS+ for a 90 day treatment period when compared to placebo treatment did not result in a significant increase in activity counts in dogs with clinical OA. However, owner assessment scores similarly improved throughout the study period for dogs in both groups, suggesting a caregiver placebo effect in this outcome measure.

Supplementary material for this article is available at https://doi.org/10.3415/VCOT-17-02-0020
Detection of Water Vapor in the Thermal Spectrum of the Non-transiting Hot Jupiter Upsilon Andromedae b
Authors: Piskorz Danielle , Benneke Björn , Crockett Nathan R. , Lockwood Alexandra C. , Blake Geoffrey A. , Barman Travis S. , Bender Chad F. , Carr John S. , Johnson John A.
Published: August 2017

The Upsilon Andromedae system was the first multi-planet system discovered orbiting a main-sequence star. We describe the detection of water vapor in the atmosphere of the innermost non-transiting gas giant ups And b by treating the star–planet system as a spectroscopic binary with high-resolution, ground-based spectroscopy. We resolve the signal of the planet’s motion and break the mass-inclination degeneracy for this non-transiting planet via deep combined flux observations of the star and the planet. In total, seven epochs of Keck NIRSPEC L band observations, three epochs of Keck NIRSPEC short-wavelength K band observations, and three epochs of Keck NIRSPEC long wavelength K band observations of the ups And system were obtained. We perform a multi-epoch cross-correlation of the full data set with an atmospheric model. We measure the radial projection of the Keplerian velocity (K
P = 55 ± 9 km s−1), true mass (

M
J), and orbital inclination (i
b  24° ± 4°), and determine that the planet’s opacity structure is dominated by water vapor at the probed wavelengths. Dynamical simulations of the planets in the ups And system with these orbital elements for ups And b show that stable, long-term (100 Myr) orbital configurations exist. These measurements will inform future studies of the stability and evolution of the ups And system, as well as the atmospheric structure and composition of the hot Jupiter.
Giardia intestinalis infection associated with malnutrition in children living in northeastern Brazil
Authors: Coronato-Nunes Beatriz , Calegar Deiviane Aparecida , Monteiro Kerla Joeline Lima , Hubert-Jaeger Lauren , Reis Elis Regina Chaves , Xavier Samanta Cristina das Chagas , Carpp Lindsay Nicole , Lima Marli Maria , Bóia Márcio Neves , Carvalho-Costa Filipe Anibal
Published: August 2017

Introduction: The present study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with Giardia intestinalis infection, verifying its impact on the nutritional status of children in northeastern Brazil.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted to obtain parasitological, sociodemographic, and anthropometric data in two municipalities in the states of Piauí and Ceará, northeastern Brazil.

Results: Prevalence of giardiasis was 55/511 (10.8%). G. intestinalis was more frequent in people living in poverty (30/209 [14.4%], p = 0.041), performing open evacuation (26/173 [15%], p = 0.034), and drinking rainwater stored in cisterns (9/56 [16.1%], p = 0.005). The proportion of stunting and being underweight in children infected with G. intestinalis was significantly higher than that in uninfected children (5/23 [21.7%] vs. 10/179 [5.6%], p = 0.017, OR = 4.69, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.44–15.25 and 5/23 [21.7%] vs. 13/179 [7.3%], p = 0.038, OR = 3.54, 95% CI = 1.13–11.09, respectively). Infection with G. intestinalis remained significantly associated with stunting and being underweight after adjustment for poverty, municipality, sex, and age in a logistic regression multivariate model.

Conclusions: In rural areas in northeastern Brazil, giardiasis has acquired great public health importance in the soil-transmitted helminths control era, impacting the nutritional status of children and requiring new approaches to diagnosis and treatment and translational research that could generate applicable solutions at the community level.
Improvement of creativity via the six-steps bio-inspiration strategy
Authors: Sidorenko Sofija
Published: August 2017

Bionics is a relatively new interdisciplinary science, which synthesizes the knowledge of biology and other sciences. Industrial designers, architects and engineers find the application of principles and methods of bionics efficient for deriving inspiration and improving their creative thinking.Designers explore natural systems by adopting one of the two main bionic strategies: solution-driven or problem-driven approach. The first one deals with abstraction of the principle in biological systems as an inspiration for application in the product design process. The second one searches for a solution in natural systems for already recognized design problems.We adopted the Bi-directional bionic design method proposed by Versos and Coelho and started to implement it in our educational process. Many student projects have been made and important experience achieved. With this research we wanted to emphasize the possibilities and advantages of the bionic strategy and to offer our contribution for the phase of inspiration for a new product development or an improvement of the existing ones. Our main goal was to apply solution oriented strategy for efficient exploring of nature in the phase of searching for inspiration. We propose several steps in the process of exploration of natural systems followed by identification of important natural solutions and a structured way of documentation in order to become more noticeable and observable to attract an attention of designers and engineers. The recognized natural solutions could become a trigger for inspiration for various design solutions. The proposed strategy could be applied in the education of design and engineering students for improvement of their creativity.
Two new species of Centrodora (Hymenoptera, Aphelinidae) from China, with a key to Chinese species
Authors: Chen Ye , Li Cheng-De
Published: August 2017

Two new species of Centrodora Förster, C. crassiscapasp. n. and C. pellucidasp. n., are described from China. A key to species from China based on females is given.
Toward the Development of a Core Set of Outcome Domains to Assess Shared Decision-making Interventions in Rheumatology: Results from an OMERACT Delphi Survey and Consensus Meeting
Authors: Toupin-April Karine , Barton Jennifer , Fraenkel Liana , Li Linda C. , Brooks Peter , De Wit Maarten , Stacey Dawn , Légaré France , Meara Alexa , Shea Beverley , Lyddiatt Anne , Hofstetter Cathie , Gossec Laure , Christensen Robin , Scholte-Voshaar Marieke , Suarez-Almazor Maria E. , Boonen Annelies , Meade Tanya , March Lyn , Pohl Christoph , Jull Janet Elizabeth , Sivarajah Sigogini , Campbell Willemina , Alten Rieke , Karuranga Suvi , Morgan Esi , Kaufman Jessica , Hill Sophie , Maxwell Lara J. , Welch Vivian , Beaton Dorcas , El-Miedany Yasser , Tugwell Peter S.
Published: August 2017

Objective.

The aim of this Outcome Measures in Rheumatology (OMERACT) Working Group was to determine the core set of outcome domains and subdomains for measuring the effectiveness of shared decision-making (SDM) interventions in rheumatology clinical trials.

Methods.

Following the OMERACT Filter 2.0, and based on a previous literature review of SDM outcome domains and a nominal group process at OMERACT 2014, (1) an online Delphi survey was conducted to gather feedback on the draft core set and refine its domains and subdomains, and (2) a workshop was held at the OMERACT 2016 meeting to gain consensus on the draft core set.

Results.

A total of 170 participants completed Round 1 of the Delphi survey, and 116 completed Round 2. Respondents came from 29 countries, with 49% being patients/caregivers. Results showed that 14 out of the 17 subdomains within the 7 domains exceeded the 70% criterion (endorsement ranged from 83% to 100% of respondents). At OMERACT 2016, only 8% of the 96 attendees were patients/caregivers. Despite initial votes of support in breakout groups, there was insufficient comfort about the conceptualization of these 7 domains and 17 subdomains for these to be endorsed at OMERACT 2016 (endorsement ranged from 17% to 68% of participants).

Conclusion.

Differences between the Delphi survey and consensus meeting may be explained by the manner in which the outcomes were presented, variations in participant characteristics, and the context of voting. Further efforts are needed to address the limited understanding of SDM and its outcomes among OMERACT participants.
Les experts des comités d’entreprise en France : une coopération originale avec les représentants des salariés
Authors: Capron Michel
Published: August 2017

L’assistance des experts-comptables auprès des comités d’entreprise en France offre un exemple de relation originale de coopération entre des experts et des représentants de salariés, majoritairement élus sur des listes syndicales. Le contexte institutionnel et historique a largement déterminé le rôle économique que les comités d’entreprise ont joué depuis leur création, il y a une cinquantaine d’années. Les experts ont adapté et fait évoluer leur offre de prestation à une demande protéiforme et souvent indéterminée ; elle s’est notamment élargie à l’initiative des experts, sous l’effet des mutations économiques et sociales des années 1970. Consacrée par la législation en 1982, la place des experts dans les relations sociales contribue à l’institutionnalisation de la représentation salariale dans l’entreprise.
Physiological response to an experimental 100 m flying pace race in Icelandic horses and effect of rider
Authors: Stefánsdóttir G.J. , Gunnarsson V.Þ. , Ragnarsson S. , Jansson A.
Published: August 2017

This study evaluated the physiological response to an experimental 100 m flying pace race (EPR) in Icelandic horses with pace-competition experience, and whether there was an effect of rider. A cross-over design with nine horses and two riders was used. The EPR was performed twice (once with each rider) with four days of rest in-between. The EPR consisted of two runs (I and II), of which at least 100 m was in pace at full speed according to international competition rules. Plasma lactate concentration increased and was greater after pace run II than I (18.5±1.3 vs 11.9±0.7 mmol/l; P<0.001). Heart rate was higher during pace run I than II (207±3 vs 205±3; P=0.02). Heart rate and Lact had not recovered 30 min post exercise but Hct was back to resting level after 30 min recovery. Speed did not differ between riders and pace runs (pooled mean ± standard deviation of pace runs: 10.4±0.7 m/s, range 9.2-12.1 m/s) but HR and Lact were higher from warm-up and until 30 min recovery with rider 1 than 2 (P<0.001). There was a negative correlation between post EPR Lact with rider 1 and previous best record (r2=0.72, P=0.032). To conclude, a 100 m flying pace race in the Icelandic horse is a high-intensity exercise and anaerobic metabolism is crucial for performance. The rider had an effect on the physiological response but it is unclear if it was due to body weight, riding style or both. The practical relevance of the differences observed between riders remains to be proven but our results indicate that they may have limited impact on single day competitions since the speed was the same with the two riders.
Production of house fly larvae for animal feed through natural oviposition
Authors: Koné N. , Sylla M. , Nacambo S. , Kenis M.
Published: August 2017

Larvae of the house fly, Musca domestica L., are a suitable protein source for incorporation into animal feed. In Sub-Saharan Africa, one of the methods to produce house fly larvae is to expose a substrate to attract naturally-occurring adult flies for oviposition. A production system, described herein, was set up in Mali and the potential of the method was assessed by studying the influence of various parameters on yields. Of four substrate mixtures tested, three, i.e. chicken manure alone, sheep manure and coagulated blood, and chicken manure and coagulated blood provided average yields of 124-144 g of fresh larvae per kg of dry substrate, just three days after the exposure of the substrate to adult flies. However, high variations were observed between and within seasons. In the rainy season, a maximum of 427 g per kg of dry substrate were obtained but, in the dry hot season, yields were much lower. Up to 10 kg of dry substrate can be exposed per m2. Increasing the quantity and proportion of coagulated blood in sheep manure also increases yield, but chicken manure alone is probably the easiest substrate, provided the manure is of high quality and contains the right amount of cellulose. A major limiting factor for the scaling up of this system is the need for a large ground surface to reach an industrial production. Tests have been made with trays placed on shelves and yields decreased rapidly with increasing heights to 67 and 39% at 40 and 114 cm from the ground, respectively. Recommendations for the setting up and optimisation of a house fly larvae production system in West Africa are suggested.
Implementation of Information-Based Teaching System for Young College Teachers based on iOS Platform
Authors: Liu Junling , Zhang Yawen
Published: August 2017

Targeting the research and implementation of mobile-end live teaching systems, this paper develops a mobile mathematics learning system that can interact and exchange learning with students and teachers in any place with Internet access, designs geometric image drawing, mathematical formula layout and other key algorithms and studies the audio and video data structure on the iOS platform framework. Reality test results show that the live teaching system based on the iPad platform works well - the mathematical whiteboard module can achieve the drawing of geometric images and display and operation of algebraic formulas; the live video module can transmit video stream formed by the images captured by the camera or from the screen and the audio acquired to the server at real time, and can play the video stream from the server in time. This satisfies the requirement of mobile-end video broadcast and helps further promote the development of learning and teaching based on mobile terminal.
Investigation and Research on the English Learning Status of University Students Based on Computer Network
Authors: Guo Yanli
Published: August 2017

This paper analyzes the learning status of public English network course learning of university students, and then builds the “ecological system of public English network course learning” in accordance with the educational ecology theory to sort out various factors influencing the leaning effect and the relations among these factors, finally leading to positive solutions and suggestions.
Moth-Flame Optimization Algorithm Based Multilevel Thresholding for Image Segmentation
Authors: Khairuzzaman Abdul Kayom Md , Chaudhury Saurabh
Published: August 2017

Multilevel thresholding is a popular image segmentation technique. However, computational complexity of multilevel thresholding increases very rapidly with increasing number of thresholds. Metaheuristic algorithms are applied to reduce computational complexity of multilevel thresholding. A new method of multilevel thresholding based on Moth-Flame Optimization (MFO) algorithm is proposed in this paper. The goodness of the thresholds is evaluated using Kapur's entropy or Otsu's between class variance function. The proposed method is tested on a set of benchmark test images and the performance is compared with PSO (Particle Swarm Optimization) and BFO (Bacterial Foraging Optimization) based methods. The results are analyzed objectively using the fitness function and the Peak Signal to Noise Ratio (PSNR) values. It is found that MFO based multilevel thresholding method performs better than the PSO and BFO based methods.
Big Data and Advance Analytics: Architecture, Techniques, Applications, and Challenges
Authors: Verma Surabhi
Published: August 2017

The insights that firms gain from big data analytics (BDA) in real time is used to direct, automate and optimize the decision making to successfully achieve their organizational goals. Data management (DM) and advance analytics (AA) tools and techniques are some of the key contributors to making BDA possible. This paper aims to investigate the characteristics of BD, processes of data management, AA techniques, applications across sectors and issues that are related to their effective implementation and management within broader context of BDA. A range of recently published literature on the characteristics of BD, DM processes, AA techniques are reviewed to explore their current state, applications, issues and challenges learned from their practice. The finding discusses different characteristics of BD, a framework for BDA using data management processes and AA techniques. It also discusses the opportunities/applications and challenges managers dealing with these technologies face for gaining competitive advantages in businesses. The study findings are intended to assist academicians and managers in effectively quantifying the data available in an organization into BD by understanding its properties, understanding the emerging technologies, applications and issues behind BDA implementation.
Multicriteria Decision-Making Method Under a Single Valued Neutrosophic Environment
Authors: Ren Shapu
Published: August 2017

A single valued neutrosophic set (SVNS) is a subclass of neutrosophic sets, which generalizes fuzzy sets, interval valued fuzzy set, and intuitionistic fuzzy set. It can be used to easily express incomplete, indeterminate and inconsistent information. This paper introduces the Dice similarity measure of single valued neutrosophic numbers (SVNNs) for ranking SVNNs and a single valued neutrosophic prioritized weighted geometric (SVNPWG) operator for aggregating single valued neutrosophic information. Based on the SVNPWG operator and the Dice similarity measure for SVNNs, a multicriteria decision-making method with different priority levels in the criteria is established in which the evaluation values of alternatives with respective to criteria are represented in the form of SVNNs. The ranking order of alternatives is performed through the Dice measure and the best one(s) can be determined as well. Finally, an illustrative example shows the application of the proposed method.
Audio Technology and Mobile Human Computer Interaction
Authors: Chamberlain Alan , Bødker Mads , Hazzard Adrian , McGookin David , De Roure David , Willcox Pip , Papangelis Konstantinos
Published: August 2017

Audio-based mobile technology is opening up a range of new interactive possibilities. This paper brings some of those possibilities to light by offering a range of perspectives based in this area. It is not only the technical systems that are developing, but novel approaches to the design and understanding of audio-based mobile systems are evolving to offer new perspectives on interaction and design and support such systems to be applied in areas, such as the humanities.
Learning in Cross-Media Environment
Authors: Bonometti Stefano
Published: August 2017

The aim of this paper to reflect on the definition of a cross-media learning environment by analyzing two training approaches to the professional development of teachers. The first approach centers around curricular internships as training for future teachers, the second focuses on professional development for teachers in service. The aim of the author's analysis was to identify the factors that contribute to overcoming the 'real' vs. 'online' and 'theory' vs. “practice” gap, opting for an integrated cross-media learning environment.
Electrofabrication of Ni-Co-CNT Composite Coatings for Hydrogen Energy
Authors: Shetty Akshatha R. , Hegde Ampar Chitharanjan
Published: August 2017

The present study reports the enhanced electrocatalytic activity of Ni-Co alloy coatings due to addition of known quantity of carbon nanotube (CNT) into the bath. The Ni-Co-CNT composite coatings were electrodeposited on copper substrate from a sulphate bath, using glycerol as the additive. Electrocatalytic efficiency of the coatings, used as electrodes were tested for both Hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in 1M KOH using cyclic voltametry and chronopotentiometric techniques. The experimental conditions were optimized to maximize the electrocatalytic activity of both Ni-Co and Ni-Co-CNT coatings for HER and OER. The experimental results revealed that Ni-Co-CNT coatings deposited at high current densities are more favorable for OER and HER, compared to bare Ni-Co coatings deposited from same bath, under same condition. The substantial improvement in the electrocatalytic activity of Ni-Co-CNT composite coatings was attributed to increased porosity due to addition of CNT. The structure-property relationship of both Ni-Co and Ni-Co-CNT alloy coatings for HER and OER were used to explain the role of CNT in enhancing electrocatalytic activity, with the support of XRD, SEM and EDX analyses.
Photoluminescence and Photocatalytic Properties of Bi2O3 Nanostructures
Authors: Ahila M. , Padiyan D. Pathinettam
Published: August 2017

Bi2O3 nanostructures were synthesized through a simple electrolysis based oxidation using NaOH electrolyte and annealed at 300 °C, 400 °C, 500 °C and 600 °C. The obtained Bi2O3 nanostructures were characterized using X-ray diffraction and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). Bi2O3 crystal structure was confirmed by XRD. When free electron and holes are combined together then emission signals are emitted from PL spectra. With this process, it is studied about the recombination and separation of photo generated holes and electrons. The photocatalytic activities of Bi2O3 films were evaluated for the degradation of Congo red in aqueous solution under UV light irradiation. Among the four samples, Bi2O3 films annealed at 300 °C have better efficiency in removing the congo red dye. For Bi-3, the initial concentration of 10 ppm decreases to 1.11 ppm after 420 min.
Influence of Blend on the Conductivity in Poly(Ethyl Methacrylate)/Poly(Vinyl Acetate) Based Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Premila R. , Rajendran S. , Kesavan K.
Published: August 2017

The polymer blend electrolytes composed of poly (ethyl methacrylate)(PEMA) and Poly (vinyl acetate)(PVAc) as host polymer and lithium perchlorate (LiClO4) as a salt are synthesized by solvent casting technique. The polymer membranes with different wt% of PEMA and PVAc are subjected to AC impedance analysis for the investigation of ionic conductivity. The maximum ionic conductivity of 3.541 X 10- 5Scm- 1 at 303K is reported for PEMA/PVAC (70/30wt%) –LiClO4 (8wt%) polymer blend electrolyte system.The complexation has been confirmed by XRD and FTIR techniques. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the blend polymer electrolytes has been obtained from DSC measurements. The SEM micrographs show the surface morphology of the prepared samples. The electrochemical stability of the sample exhibiting high conductivity has been carried out using linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. The potential window has been found to be-2.5 to +2.5 V. The lithium transference number evaluated using chronoamperometry technique results in a value of 0.90. The dielectric behavior of the solid polymer blend electrolytes has been analyzed as a function of frequency and temperature. The dc conductivity values obtained from the conductance spectra match the ac impedance results. The photoluminescence spectra that contain information about the local free volume of the prepared samples justify the conductivity results. The two and three dimensional images of the maximum ionic conducting sample exhibit numerous micropores.
Encapsulation of CdS/ZnO Hybrid Nanoparticles in Zeolite Y and its Photocatalytic Studies
Authors: Akila A. , Mohan S. Chandra , Karuppusamy S. , Jothivenkatachalam K.
Published: August 2017

The recent development of nanoparticles in commercial media has great attention due to uniformity and stability of the materials. In our present investigation cadmium sulfide (CdS), a direct bandgap semiconductor material has well defined optoelectronic properties in the applications of photocatalysis, photoelectrocatalytic and nonlinear optics. Zeolite which offers a perfect host material for the production of highly uniform nanoparticles with apparently circulated provisions and inhibiting the aggregation of nanoparticles and also helps in the protection from the attack by water and other reactive compounds. In order to stabilize the CdS nanoparticles and to prevent their aggregations, CdS is sheltered within the zeolite Y material. This novel assembly was synthesized by ion exchange method. In order to increase the photocatalytic activity of CdS, ZnO nanoparticles were incorporated into the zeolite Y assembly. The photocatalytic activity of the CdS/ZnO-Y towards the degradation of methyl orange was investigated under the visible light; it follows pseudo first order kinetics. After incorporation the composite loaded assembly (CdS/ZnO-Y) exhibits a superior photocatalytic activity due to the suppressed recombination rate of photogenerated charge carriers due to the synergy between the two semiconductor species. The as synthesized sample was characterized by UV DRS, FTIR and PL techniques.
Establishment of Carbo-Chlorination Facility and the Preparation of High Pure Hafnium Chloride for Space Grade Applications
Authors: Kumar P.P. Srinivasa , Kumar S. Rajesh , Kumar Arbind
Published: August 2017

In view of the increase in demand of atomic energy and also dynamic increase in the number of space flights in our country, the limitation shown by developed countries on supply of hafnium metal for strategic applications has made our country to develop indigenously for its sustainability. The technology for the setting up of the hafnium pilot plant has been initiated by C-MET Hyderabad in collaboration with VSSC (ISRO) in order to compete with rest of the world. India has a good reserve of hafnium containing zircon sand where the hafnium containing zirconium is in the range of 1:50. A good quantity of zircon sand is available in mineral rich beach sands of India. Nuclear Fuel Complex, Hyderabad has commercial plant to produce nuclear grade zirconium for producing atomic energy. Zirconium scrub raffinate solution a by-product of NFC, Hyderabad containing decent amount of hafnium and zirconium is the raw material used for developing NIOBHAT 101 alloy such as niobium and hafnium for space grade applications and nuclear reactor control rods as the hafnium is having high neutron absorbing capacity. The major steps involved are separation of zirconium and purification of hafnium by solvent extraction, preparation of hafnium oxide, feed preparation and chlorination, reduction of hafnium chloride and separation of magnesium by vacuum distillation and sponge handling. In this regard Briquetting and Carbo-Chlorination processes are very vital because the reactivity of oxides depends on the calcination and coking conditions keeping a side precipitation conditions. The phase purity and chemical purity of hafnium chloride has immense influence on the following process namely, Kroll’s Reduction. This paper enumerates the experiments conducted in obtaining phase pure hafnium chloride. The data leading to optimised process parameters for the production of phase pure material has been presented.
Synthesis and Characterization of Calcium Titanate and Calcium Zirconate Compound Powders by Molten Salt Method
Authors: Bercmans L. John , Sornakumar T. , Kumar A. Harish , Siva G. , Venkatesh G.
Published: August 2017

Alkaline earth titanates and zirconates and their binary systems are of interest for their temperature in sensitive dielectric properties. Calcium titanate and calcium zirconate perovskite ceramics find applications in pulse discharge, energy storage and microwave capacitors. These dielectric materials have been used in electric hybrid and fuel cell vehicles. In the present work, fine crystalline compound powders of calcium titanate and calcium zirconate were prepared by a single step molten salt synthesis. Calcium oxide and titanium dioxide/zirconium oxide were used as precursors to obtain the calcium titanate and calcium zirconate compound powders respectively. The prepared calcium titanate and calcium zirconate compound powders were characterized by TGA, FTIR, XRD, SEM and EDS analysis.
X-Ray Diffraction Analysis of Mechanically Milled Alumina and Zirconia Powders
Authors: Elsen S. Renold , Jegadeesan K. , Aseer J. Ronald
Published: August 2017

Ball milling is one of the top down approach used for reducing the particle size of bulk powder. Especially high energy ball milling is done to reduce the particle size to nanodomain. The Zirconia Toughened Alumina nanocomposite has diverged application in different engineering fields. The alumina and zirconia powders used for fabrication of Zirconia Toughened Alumina composite are subjected for ball milling. The effect of ball milling on the powders is reported on the work. The characterisation of the powder samples were done by X-ray diffraction. This was done to evaluate the effect of the starting material on the final product. Using the Scherer’s formula, Williamson-Hall analysis the change in crystallite size and strain were analysed.
Identification and Prevention of Secondary Heart Failure: A Case Study
Authors: Gheorghiu Vlad , Barkley Thomas W.
Published: August 2017

Heart failure, a complex clinical syndrome affecting millions of Americans, is associated with high morbidity and mortality and a significant financial burden on the health care system. Recent health care reform efforts have focused on reducing 30-day heart failure hospital readmissions, increasing the cost-effectiveness of care provided to heart failure patients, and improving health outcomes for these patients. This case report describes an acutely ill patient with multiple comorbidities who was not initially admitted for heart failure but who developed acute decompensated heart failure during his hospital stay. The purpose of this in-depth analysis is to discuss the role of bedside nurses and advanced practice nurses in managing heart failure, describe the challenges of identifying secondary heart failure in patients with complex conditions, and suggest methods of improving health-related outcomes to prevent hospital readmissions.
HIV-1 Infection Is Associated with Depletion and Functional Impairment of Mycobacterium tuberculosis–Specific CD4 T Cells in Individuals with Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Day Cheryl L. , Abrahams Deborah A. , Harris Levelle D. , van Rooyen Michele , Stone Lynnett , de Kock Marwou , Hanekom Willem A.
Published: August 2017

Coinfection with HIV is the single greatest risk factor for reactivation of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection (LTBI) and progression to active tuberculosis disease. HIV-associated dysregulation of adaptive immunity by depletion of CD4 Th cells most likely contributes to loss of immune control of LTBI in HIV-infected individuals, although the precise mechanisms whereby HIV infection impedes successful T cell–mediated control of M. tuberculosis have not been well defined. To further delineate mechanisms whereby HIV impairs protective immunity to M. tuberculosis, we evaluated the frequency, phenotype, and functional capacity of M. tuberculosis-specific CD4 T cells in HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected adults with LTBI. HIV infection was associated with a lower total frequency of cytokine-producing M. tuberculosis-specific CD4 T cells, and preferential depletion of a discrete subset of M. tuberculosis-specific IFN-γ+IL-2−TNF-α+ CD4 T cells. M. tuberculosis-specific CD4 T cells in HIV-infected individuals expressed significantly higher levels of Ki67, compared with HIV-uninfected individuals, thus indicating recent activation and turnover of these cells in vivo. The ex vivo proliferative capacity of M. tuberculosis-specific CD4 T cells was markedly impaired in HIV-infected individuals, compared with HIV-uninfected individuals. Moreover, HIV infection was associated with increased M. tuberculosis Ag-induced CD4 T cell death ex vivo, indicating a possible mechanism contributing to impaired proliferative capacity of M. tuberculosis-specific CD4 T cells in HIV-infected individuals. These data provide new insights into the parameters of M. tuberculosis-specific CD4 T cell immunity that are impaired in HIV-infected individuals with LTBI, which may contribute to their increased risk of developing active tuberculosis disease.
Movilidad y espacialidad en la (trans)frontera tacno-ariqueña. Sur peruano y norte chileno
Authors: Valdebenito Tamborino Felipe
Published: August 2017

Este artículo discute la relación entre procesos sociales de movilidad y formas espaciales que se producen con ello en la frontera tacno-ariqueña (sur peruano y norte chileno). Esto se aborda desde una perspectiva etnográfica multidimensional, procesual y multisituada. Se propone la categoría de espacialidad como alternativa de aproximación a lo estudiado. La interpretación del material etnográfico sugiere que Tacna y Arica presentan una espacialidad transfronteriza caracterizada por el compartimiento común de procesos sociales contemporáneos de movilidad.
Effects of neoadjuvant laparoscopic hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion and intraperitoneal/systemic chemotherapy on peritoneal metastasis from gastric cancer
Authors: Yonemura Yutaka , Canbay Emel , Fujita Takuji , Sako Shouszou , Wakama Satoshi , Ishibashi Haruaki , Hirano Masamitu , Mizumoto Akiyoshi , Takeshita Kazuyoshi , Takao Nobuyuki , Ichinose Masumi , Noguchi Kousuke , Liu Yang , Li Yan , Taniguchi Keizou
Published: August 2017

Our aim was to clarify the effects of neoadjuvant hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemoperfusion (NLHIPEC) followed by intraperitoneal/systemic chemotherapy (NIPS) on peritoneal metastasis from gastric cancer. After carrying out exploratory laparoscopy to determine the peritoneal cancer index (pretreatment PCI: Pre-PCI) in 150 patients, we performed NLHIPEC for 60 min. with peritoneal port placement: a series of 3-week cycles of NIPS using S1, docetaxel, and cisplatin two weeks after NLHIPEC: performed cytoreductive surgery in 86 patients four weeks after NIPS, and subsequently measured PCI (Post-PCI). Positive cytology in 38 patients changed to negative in 26 (68.4%) patients at laparotomy. The post-PCI (6.7±7.8) was significantly lower than the pre-PCI (10.6±10.2) (P=0.0001). The PCI was ≥14 in 30 patients at pretreatment and ≤13 in 19 (63.3􀀁) of these patients at posttreatmjent. Post-PCI cut-off level (≤13 vs ≥14) and cytology after NIPS (negative vs positive) emerged as independent indicators of prognosis. Postoperative mortality was 1.2% (1/86). NLHIPEC and NIPS are safe and effective modalities for reducing Post-PCI below the cut-off level and eradicating peritoneal free cancer cells.
Многочлены Бурчналла-Чаунди и операторы Дункла-Дарбу
Authors: Meshcheryakov V V
Published: August 2017

В работе изучаются некоторые свойства многочленов
Бурчналла-Чаунди. В явном виде вычисляются два
первых ненулевых коэффициента, следующих за старшим.
Рассматриваются дифференциально-разностные
операторы Дункла-Дарбу, связанные с многочленами
Бурчналла-Чаунди. Описываются собственные функции
этих операторов.
Библиография: 6 названий.
Асимптотика диагональных многочленов Эрмита-Паде для набора экспоненциальных функций
Authors: Starovoitov Alexander Pavlovich
Published: August 2017

В работе исследуется асимптотика диагональных многочленов
Эрмита-Паде 1-го рода для системы
экспоненциальных функций $\{e^{\lambda_pz}\}_{p=0}^k$,
где $\lambda_0=0$, а остальные $\lambda_p$ являются
корнями уравнения $\xi^k=1$. Доказанные теоремы дополняют
известные результаты П. Борвейна, Ф. Вилонского, Г. Шталя,
А. В. Астафьевой, А. П. Старовойтова, полученные в случае,
когда $\{\lambda_p\}_{p=0}^k$ - различные действительные числа.
Библиография: 40 названий.