bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hierarchical inferential method for indoor scene classification
Authors: Jiang Jingzhe , Liu Peng , Ye Zhipeng , Zhao Wei , Tang Xianglong
Published: January 2018

Indoor scene classification forms a basis for scene interaction for service robots. The task is challenging because the layout and decoration of a scene vary considerably. Previous studies on knowledge-based methods commonly ignore the importance of visual attributes when constructing the knowledge base. These shortcomings restrict the performance of classification. The structure of a semantic hierarchy was proposed to describe similarities of different parts of scenes in a fine-grained way. Besides the commonly used semantic features, visual attributes were also introduced to construct the knowledge base. Inspired by the processes of human cognition and the characteristics of indoor scenes, we proposed an inferential framework based on the Markov logic network. The framework is evaluated on a popular indoor scene dataset, and the experimental results demonstrate its effectiveness.
Negotiating transfer pricing using the Nash bargaining solution
Authors: Clempner Julio B. , Poznyak Alexander S.
Published: January 2018

This paper analyzes and proposes a solution to the transfer pricing problem from the point of view of the Nash bargaining game theory approach. We consider a firm consisting of several divisions with sequential transfers, in which central management provides a transfer price decision that enables maximization of operating profits. Price transferring between divisions is negotiable throughout the bargaining approach. Initially, we consider a disagreement point (status quo) between the divisions of the firm, which plays the role of a deterrent. We propose a framework and a method based on the Nash equilibrium approach for computing the disagreement point. Then, we introduce a bargaining solution, which is a single-valued function that selects an outcome from the feasible pay-offs for each bargaining problem that is a result of cooperation of the divisions of the firm involved in the transfer pricing problem. The agreement reached by the divisions in the game is the most preferred alternative within the set of feasible outcomes, which produces a profit-maximizing allocation of the transfer price between divisions. For computing the bargaining solution, we propose an optimization method. An example illustrating the usefulness of the method is presented.
Further results on color energy of graphs
Authors: Joshi Prajakta Bharat , Joseph Mayamma
Published: January 2018

Given a colored graph G, its color energy Ec(G) is defined as the sum of the absolute values of the eigenvalues of the color matrix of G. The concept of color energy was introduced by Adiga et al. [1]. In this article, we obtain some new bounds for the color energy of graphs and establish relationship between color energy Ec(G) and energy E(G) of a graph G. Further, we construct some new families of graphs in which one is non-co-spectral color-equienergetic with some families of graphs and another is color-hyperenergetic. Also we derive explicit formulas for their color energies.
Necessity and complexity of order picking routing optimisation based on pallet loading features
Authors: Bódis Tamás , Botzheim János , Földesi Péter
Published: January 2018

Order picking is the most labour-intensive and costly activity of warehouses. The main challenges of its improvement are the synchronisation of warehouse layout, storage assignment policy, routing, zoning, and batching. Furthermore, the competitiveness of the warehouse depends on how it adapts to the unique customer demands and product parameters and the changes. The operators usually have to manage the picking sequence based on best practices taking into consideration the product stacking factors and minimising the lead time. It is usually necessary to support the operators by making e ective decisions. Researchers of the pallet loading problem, bin packing problem, and order picking optimisation provide a wide horizon of solutions but their results are rarely synchronised.
The Institutional Tools of Integrated Landscape Management in Slovakia for Mitigation of Climate Change and Other Natural Disasters
Authors: Miklós László , Izakovičová Zita , Offertálerová Monika , Miklósová Viktória
Published: January 2018

The most frequent natural disasters in Slovakia are related to climatic events, in particular to the sudden intensive rains, quick run-off and unbalanced water regime. They induce soil erosion and accumulation, flash floods, landslides, overwhelming waterlogging and also draught. Since these events have an impact throughout the whole landscape - the forest, agricultural and urban landscape, which are under the management of different sectors, the integration of the sectoral planning tools for the mitigation of their consequences is inevitable. Integration is a difficult process of dual character: it requires the development of landscape-ecological methods applicable to land management tools on one side and the creation of legal provisions ensuring the transfer of those scientific principles to legislation, on the other side. This paper deals with both sides of this process in Slovakia.
Accessibility of Local Food Production to Regional Markets – Case of Berry Production in Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland
Authors: Korhonen Kirsi , Kotavaara Ossi , Muilu Toivo , Rusanen Jarmo
Published: January 2018

Consumers and institutional kitchens, as well as traders, have shown increasing interest towards local food. This is particularly due to the transparency and traceability characteristic of a short supply chain and social aspects related to food origins. The trend has been increasingly common during the past decade in Europe and North America, and it is strongly evident in the case area of this study in Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland. In general, ease of access to food is highly important for consumers and crucial for institutional kitchens, in addition to quality aspects and price. However, regardless of proximity, poor accessibility is one of the key issues preventing the further growth of local food markets. Due to scale economics in food value chain, food transport is presently organised mainly by centralised, large-scale logistics companies directed via hubs serving millions of consumers. Accordingly, production volumes required to enter large-scale markets are often unattainable for disjointed small-scale local food producers. In this study, geographic information system (GIS)-based accessibility analyses are applied for analysing potential for integral networking of local food production and transport companies. Berry production was selected as a case study because it has a relatively strong role in Northern Ostrobothnia, while its logistics are notably underdeveloped. Spatial data of primary production volumes consists of register records of farm-specific cultivation areas and average yields in Northern Ostrobothnia and Finland. Accessibility computations are based on the digital model of the Finnish road network, Digiroad. Two surveys were also implemented to farmers and food processing companies to seek views on food processing, sales, logistics and procurements regarding local food. Data from the surveys was used in accessibility analysis, which enables exploration of opportunities for establishing ‘local food’ clusters integrating small producers into a more effective and competitive network. Information about favourable conditions for cooperative networks in the local food sector may help in establishing companies and their growth. Again, successful networking may increase scale economies in local production in transport, processing and marketing.
The Spatial Patterns of Dairy Farming In Molise
Authors: Ievoli Corrado , Basile Roberto Giovanni , Belliggiano Angelo
Published: January 2018

The greater market orientation of European dairy production, caused by the end of quota regime, is likely to have consequences on less favoured areas, where breeding of dairy cattle plays both a crucial socio-economic and environmental role. Within this new framework, endogenous factors determining spatial reorganisation of the sector are becoming of increasing relevance. Based on these considerations, this study analyses the impact of the three broader classes of location determinants suggested by economic theory - factor endowment, market potential, and spatial agglomeration externalities - on the spatial pattern of milk production in Molise, a rural region in the south of Italy. Milk production is measured in term of dairy cows per hectare. The truncated distribution of this variable and its high degree of spatial autocorrelation prompted us to apply a Spatial Autoregressive Tobit model. Estimation results reveal that all three categories have a positive effect on the location of milk production, even if the influence of factor endowment (intended as forage area), and market potential (measured in term of proximity of dairy companies) is quite limited. On the contrary, the impact of spatial externalities (related variety) on the regional localisation of milk production is strongly significant. These results cast some doubts on the current measures of intervention and might suggest a new policy framework both at firm and spatial level
Solution of Brauer’s k⁢(B)k(B)-conjecture for π-blocks of π-separable groups
Authors: Sambale Benjamin
Published: January 2018

Answering a question of Pálfy and Pyber, we first prove the following extension of the

k
⁢

(

G
⁢
V

)

{k(GV)}

-problem: Let G be a finite group and let A be a coprime automorphism group of G. Then the number of conjugacy classes of the semidirect product

G
⋊
A

{G\rtimes A}

is at most

|
G
|

{\lvert G\rvert}

. As a consequence, we verify Brauer’s

k
⁢

(
B
)

{k(B)}

-conjecture for π-blocks of π-separable groups which was proposed by Y. Liu. This generalizes the corresponding result for blocks of p-solvable groups. We also discuss equality in Brauer’s Conjecture. On the other hand, we construct a counterexample to a version of Olsson’s Conjecture for π-blocks which was also introduced by Liu.
Vigorous physical activity, perceived stress, sleep and mental health among university students from 23 low- and middle-income countries
Authors: Pengpid Supa , Peltzer Karl
Published: January 2018

Background

Vigorous physical activity (VPA) may be beneficial for mental health. The aim of the study was to investigate cross-sectional associations between VPA, perceived stress, sleep quality and quantity and mental health among university students.

Methods

In a cross-sectional study, using anonymous questionnaires, data was collected from 15122 (42.1% male and 57.9% female) university students [mean age 20.6, standard deviation (SD) = 2.0] from 23 countries in the Americas, Africa and Asia. They were assessed using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (short version), and measures of sociodemographic, health status, health behaviour and anthropometrics.

Results

Students who met VPA recommendations were less likely to report perceived stress, more likely to report subjective good health and depression than students without VPA. There was no association between VPA and sleep quality and quantity and PTSD symptoms.

Conclusion

This study only found partial benefits of VPA in relation to well-being of university students.
Theory analysis for Pender’s health promotion model (HPM) by Barnum’s criteria: a critical perspective
Authors: Khoshnood Zohreh , Rayyani Masoud , Tirgari Batool
Published: January 2018

Background

Analysis of nursing theoretical works and its role in knowledge development is presented as an essential process of critical reflection. Health promotion model (HPM) focuses on helping people achieve higher levels of well-being and identifies background factors that influence health behaviors.

Objectives

This paper aims to evaluate, and critique HPM by Barnum’s criteria.

Methods

The present study reviewed books and articles derived from Proquest, PubMed, Blackwell Databases. The method of evaluation for this model is based on Barnum’s criteria for analysis, application and evaluation of nursing theories. The criteria selected by Barnum embrace both internal and external criticism. Internal criticism deals with how theory components fit with each other (internal construction of theory) and external criticism deals with the way in which theory relates to the extended world (which considers theory in its relationships to human beings, nursing, and health).

Results

The electronic database search yielded over 27,717 titles and abstracts. Following removal of duplicates, 18,963 titles and abstracts were screened using the inclusion criteria and 1278 manuscripts were retrieved. Of these, 80 were specific to HPM and 23 to analysis of any theory in nursing relating to the aim of this article. After final selection using the inclusion criteria for this review, 28 manuscripts were identified as examining the factors contributing to theory analysis. Evaluation of health promotion theory showed that the philosophical claims and their content are consistent and clear. HPM has a logical structure and was applied to diverse age groups from differing cultures with varying health concerns.

Conclusion

In conclusion, among the strategies for theory critique, the Barnum approach is structured and accurate, considers theory in its relationship to human beings, community psychiatric nursing, and health. While according to Pender, nursing assessment, diagnosis and interventions are utilized to operationalize the HPM through practical application and research.
To Decrease Maintenance Issues using FWM in Ultradense WDM Systems and Enhancing Optimum Placement of Optical Phase Conjugation
Authors: Chauhan Anu , Vaish Arti , Verma Ashu
Published: January 2018

In this work, a maintenance issues resolved suppression method of four-wave mixing (FWM) is proposed using optical phase conjugation (OPC) modules and different placements of OPCs are investigated in ultradense wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) system with coherent orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) incorporation. Moreover, comparison of the placements of OPC in six different cases has been done and compared with conventional WDM (no-OPC) system in terms of Q-factor, BER and induced FWM. Analysis has been done at different launched power levels. It is observed that placement of OPC after each laser source performs exceptionally well and suppresses FWM with ease of maintenance.
Anthelmintic Resistance and Associated Management Practices in Local Horses in Sokoto Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Mayaki Abubakar Musa , Mohammed Fatimah Folashade , Idris Sherifat Banke
Published: January 2018

This study was carried out to assess the management practices used in the control of gastrointestinal (GI) nematodes of horses and to determine the efficacy of three anthelmintics commonly used in Sokoto metropolis. A questionnaire was administered on management practices, while an anthelmintic efficacy test was carried out using 15 horses. The 15 horses were divided into three groups (A, B and C) comprising of 5 each and treated with albendazole, ivermectin and fenbendazole, respectively. The faecal egg count reduction test (FECRT) was used to determine the efficacy and faecal culture was used to determine the parasite species. Majority of the respondents (80%) claimed to have worm control strategies, but only 32.5% used anthelmintics for the control of GI parasites. 62.5% of respondents designed their deworming plan, while only 25% relied on veterinarians. Most of the treatments were done by the horse owners and/or handlers and they largely depended on visual judgement in dosage determination. Their selection of anthelmintics was based on familiarity and 52.5% of the respondents dewormed their horses six times a year using a particular class of anthelmintic or herbal remedies. Resistance against albendazole as well as suspected resistance against fenbendazole by the GI nematodes identified was observed, while ivermectin demonstrated high efficacy against all nematodes isolated. In conclusion, a single dose of subcutaneous injection of ivermectin was highly effective against gastrointestinal parasites in horses, while the worm control strategies employed by respondents enhanced the selection of nematode resistance to albendazole and fenbendazole.
First Case of Strongyloides stercoralis Infection in a Dog in the Republic of Macedonia
Authors: Cvetkovikj Aleksandar , Rashikj Ljubica , Celeska Irena , Petrov Elena Atanaskova , Angjelovski Branko , Cvetkovikj Iskra , Pavlova Maja Jurhar , Stefanovska Jovana
Published: January 2018

A six-month-old Pomeranian male dog was referred due to a month long history of unformed, soft faeces and mild weight loss. Stool analyses by direct faecal smear, Zinc sulphate flotation and the Baermann concentration method revealed an infection with Strongyloides stercoralis. The dog was initially treated once with a combination drug of praziquantel, pyrantel and febantel (½ Drontal® Plus Tablets for puppies and small dogs; Bayer; i.e. 31.5 mg/kg bodyweight of febantel
). The treatment was repeated after 12 days with the same dosage for 3 consecutive days. The stool analyses performed 14 days and 3 months after the second treatment were negative for S. stercoralis larvae. The results suggest that a repeated treatment with Drontal® Plus Tablets is effective against S. stercoralis in dogs and has no adverse effects.
The influence of locomotion on sensory processing and its underlying neuronal circuits
Authors: Busse Laura
Published: January 2018

Processing of sensory information can be modulated in both cortex and thalamus by behavioral context, such as locomotion. During active behaviors, coding of sensory stimuli and perception are improved, in particular during physical activity of moderate intensity. These locomotion-related modulations seem to arise from a combination of mechanisms, including neuromodulation, the recruitment of inhibitory interneurons, and specific top-down or motor-related inputs. The application of new experimental methods in mice during walking under head-fixation on treadmills made it possible to study the circuit and cellular basis underlying modulations by behavioral context with unprecedented detail. This article reviews the current state of these studies and highlights some important open questions.
Evaluating Performance of Government Inspection Bodies: A Possible Approach
Authors: Dobrolyubova Elena
Published: January 2018

Ensuring the public safety and limiting administrative barriers have been the two core objectives of most reforms in the area of business inspections and regulatory enforcement for the past decade. However, measuring these efforts has proved quite challenging both in OECD countries and in Russia. Lack of attention to the results achieved or misinterpretation of progress may affect the success of the reform efforts. Th e objective of this paper is to develop a framework for defining and evaluating both the effectiveness and the efficiency of regulatory enforcement and to apply this framework to several areas of inspection activities (such as occupational and food safety) in Russia. Th e proposed framework advances the existing international approaches to measuring the performance of government inspection bodies and accounts for perspectives of citizens, businesses and governments as crucial stakeholders of inspection reforms. Th e paper is based on both qualitative and quantitative methods (sociological surveys and statistical research). Th e results suggest that evaluating the performance of business inspections should include all aspects of minimizing risks and losses in the controlled area - from prevention of violations (reducing risks) to ensuring the reimbursement, should the risk event happen. Various levels of results, including final outcomes (impact), intermediate outcomes and outputs, are needed as they allow for detecting important inconsistencies and gaps in the performance of government inspection bodies. Th e use of various sources of performance data, independent from inspection bodies, is critical for the successful implementation of the proposed framework.
Computer-Based Simulation Games in Public Administration Education
Authors: Kutergina Evgeniia
Published: January 2018

Computer simulation, an active learning technique, is now one of the advanced pedagogical technologies. Th e use of simulation games in the educational process allows students to gain a firsthand understanding of the processes of real life. Public- administration, public-policy and political-science courses increasingly adopt simulation games in universities worldwide. Besides person-to-person simulation games, there are computer-based simulations in public-administration education. Currently in Russia the use of computer-based simulation games in Master of Public Administration (MPA) curricula is quite limited. Th is paper focuses on computer- based simulation games for students of MPA programmes. Our aim was to analyze outcomes of implementing such games in MPA curricula. We have done so by (1) developing three computer-based simulation games about allocating public finances, (2) testing the games in the learning process, and (3) conducting a posttest examination to evaluate the effect of simulation games on students’ knowledge of municipal finances. Th is study was conducted in the National Research University Higher School of Economics (HSE) and in the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (RANEPA) during the period of September to December 2015, in Saint Petersburg, Russia. Two groups of students were randomly selected in each university and then randomly allocated either to the experimental or the control group. In control groups (n=12 in HSE, n=13 in RANEPA) students had traditional lectures. In experimental groups (n=12 in HSE, n=13 in RANEPA) students played three simulation games apart from traditional lectures. Th is exploratory research shows that the use of computer-based simulation games in MPA curricula can improve students’ outcomes by 38 %. In general, the experimental groups had better performances on the post-test examination (Figure 2). Students in the HSE experimental group had 27.5 % better scores than students in the HSE control group. Students of the RANEPA experimental group had 38.0 % better scores than students in the RANEPA control group. Research indicates that lecture-based courses are less effective than courses with more interactive approaches. Therefore, our study highlights the need to implement computer-based simulation games in MPA programmes in Russian universities. Computer-based simulation games provide students with practical skills for their future careers.
Visualization of a Lifeboat Motion During Lowering Along Ship’s Side
Authors: Kniat Aleksander
Published: January 2018

This paper presents description of a computer program for motion visualization of a lifeboat lowered along ship’s side. The program is a post-processor which reads results of numerical calculations of simulated objects’ motions. The data is used to create scene composed of 3D surfaces to visualize mutual spatial positions of a lifeboat, ship’s side and water waving surface. Since the numerical data contain description of a simulation as a function of time it is possible to screen a static scene showing the simulated objects in an arbitrary instance of time. The program can also reproduce a sequence of scenes in the form of animation and control its speed. The static mode allows to view an arbitrary crosssection of the scene, rotate and enlarge specific details and make the image more realistic by hiding invisible lines or shading. The application of the program is aimed at making it possible to assess and analyze numerical calculation results in advance of their experimental verification.
Energy Efficient and Environmentally Friendly Hybrid Conversion of Inland Passenger Vessel
Authors: Litwin Wojciech , Leśniewski Wojciech , Kowalski Jakub
Published: January 2018

The development and growing availability of modern technologies, along with more and more severe environment protection standards which frequently take a form of legal regulations, are the reason why attempts are made to find a quiet and economical propulsion system not only for newly built watercraft units, but also for modernised ones. Correct selection of the propulsion and supply system for a given vessel affects significantly not only the energy efficiency of the propulsions system but also the environment - as this selection is crucial for the noise and exhaust emission levels. The paper presents results of experimental examination of ship power demand performed on a historic passenger ship of 25 m in length. Two variants, referred to as serial and parallel hybrid propulsion systems, were examined with respect to the maximum length of the single-day route covered by the ship. The recorded power demands and environmental impact were compared with those characteristic for the already installed conventional propulsion system. Taking into account a high safety level expected to be ensured on a passenger ship, the serial hybrid system was based on two electric motors working in parallel and supplied from two separate sets of batteries. This solution ensures higher reliability, along with relatively high energy efficiency. The results of the performed examination have revealed that the serial propulsion system is the least harmful to the environment, but its investment cost is the highest. In this context, the optimum solution for the ship owner seems to be a parallel hybrid system of diesel-electric type
The Experimental Identification of the Dynamic Coefficients of two Hydrodynamic Journal Bearings Operating at Constant Rotational Speed and Under Nonlinear Conditions
Authors: Breńkacz Łukasz
Published: January 2018

Hydrodynamic bearings are commonly used in ship propulsion systems. Typically, they are calculated using numerical or experimental methods. This paper presents an experimental study through which it has been possible to estimate 24 dynamic coefficients of two hydrodynamic slide bearings operating under nonlinear conditions. During the investigation, bearing mass coefficients are identified by means of a newly developed algorithm. An impact hammer was used to excite vibration of the shaft. The approximation by means of the least squares method was applied to determine bearing dynamic coefficients. Based on the performed research, the four (i.e. two main and two crosscoupled) coefficients of stiffness, damping and mass for each bearing were obtained. The mass coefficients add up to the complex shaft weight. These values are not required for modeling dynamics of the machine because the rotor mass is usually known, however, they may serve as a good indicator to validate the correctness of the stiffness and damping coefficients determined. Additionally, the experimental research procedure was described. The signals of displacements in the bearings and the excitation forces used for determination of the bearing dynamic coefficients were shown. The study discussed in this article is about a rotor supported by two hydrodynamic bearings operating in a nonlinear manner. On the basis of computations, the results of bearing dynamic coefficients were presented for a selected speed.
Finite Element Analysis of Ventilation System Fire Damper Dynamic Time-History
Authors: Skibicki Ł Dariusz , Pejkowski Łukasz , Stopel Michał
Published: January 2018

The paper presents results of the numerical analysis of the fire damper used in ventilation systems under the earthquake loading. The research was conducted in accordance with the recommendations of the Nuclear Safety Standards Commission. The aim of the analysis was to examine the fire damper with respect to its resistance to service loadings, structural integrity, and capability to stay operative after an earthquake. The analysis was carried out using the Finite Element Method in LS-Dyna software. The earthquake loading was modelled as accelerations, measured in three directions during the earthquake. For modelling of the materials behaviour, material models taking into account the influence of strain rate on hardening were used. The analysis consisted of three stages, which were: loading the construction with the earth gravity, earthquake simulation by loading with accelerations in three directions, and, finally, closing the fire damper. The analysis has shown that some of the construction elements undergo plastic deformations. However, the performed simulation of fire damper closing showed that despite these deformations, the device remains capable to keep its functionality and the damper closes hermetically. The results of the analysis were important design indications for the fire damper prototype.
Comparison of coronary risk factors and angiographic findings in younger and older patients with significant coronary artery disease
Authors: Mahjoob Mohammad Parsa , Sadeghi Soheila , Khanaman Hamide Falahaty , Naderian Mohammadreza , Khaheshi Isa
Published: January 2018

Background. Coronary artery disease (CAD) is uncommon among young adults and may have certain characteristics that are different from those in older patients. The aim of the current study was to determine the risk factors of CAD, important laboratory data and angiographic findings in young patients with CAD and to compare them with the old patients.

Methods. Patients with typical chest pain whose CAD was confirmed by coronary angiography were included in the study. These patients were divided into 2 groups: ≥ 45 and < 45 years old; the risk factors of CAD and angiographic findings were determined in each group and further compared.

Results. Finally, 231 patients with CAD were included in the study. Thirty-five (30.4%) of patients younger than 45 years and 58 (50.0%) aged ≥ 45 had diabetes mellitus (P = 0.002). Statistically remarkable differences were observed between the two groups regarding hypertension (P < 0.001), myocardial infarction (P < 0.001), Gensini score Median (P < 0.001), ejection fraction in echocardiography (P < 0.001) and fasting blood sugar in laboratory data (P = 0.006). The older group, compared with the younger one, had higher left anterior descending (LAD) artery (P < 0.001), right coronary artery (RCA) (P < 0.001), 3 vessel disease (P < 0.001) and 2-vessel disease (P = 0.044); on the other hand, 1-vessel disease was higher in patients aged < 45(P < 0.001).

Conclusion. The risk profile and angiographic findings are different in young patients with CAD compared to older patients. Young patients with CAD tend to be male with a positive familial history, but with less diabetes or hypertension. The older patients had higher 3 vessel disease, 2-vessel disease and left anterior descending (LAD) artery and right coronary artery (RCA) involvements. In contrast, 1-vessel disease was higher in young patients aged <45.
Measurement of Flat Slab Deformations by the Multi-Image Photogrammetry Method
Authors: Marčiš Marián , Fraštia Marek , Augustín Tomáš
Published: January 2018

The use of photogrammetry during load tests of building components is a common practise all over the world. It is very effective thanks to its contactless approach, 3D measurement, fast data collection, and partial or full automation of image processing; it can deliver very accurate results. Multi-image convergent photogrammetry supported by artificial coded targets is the most accurate photogrammetric method when the targets are detected in an image with a higher degree of accuracy than a 0.1 pixel. It is possible to achieve an accuracy of 0.03 mm for all the points measured on the object observed if the camera is close enough to the object, and the positions of the camera and the number of shots are precisely planned. This contribution deals with the design of a special hanging frame for a DSLR camera used during the photogrammetric measurement of the deformation of flat concrete slab. The results of the photogrammetric measurements are compared to the results from traditional contact measurement techniques during load tests.
Effect of a Near Fault on the Seismic Response of a Base-Isolated Structure with a Soft Storey
Authors: Athamnia B. , Ounis A. , Abdeddaim M.
Published: January 2018

This study focuses on the soft-storey behavior of RC structures with lead core rubber bearing (LRB) isolation systems under near and far-fault motions. Under near-fault ground motions, seismic isolation devices might perform poorly because of large isolator displacements caused by large velocity and displacement pulses associated with such strong motions. In this study, four different structural models have been designed to study the effect of soft-storey behavior under near-fault and far-fault motions. The seismic analysis for isolated reinforced concrete buildings is carried out using a nonlinear time history analysis method. Inter-story drifts, absolute acceleration, displacement, base shear forces, hysteretic loops and the distribution of plastic hinges are examined as a result of the analysis. These results show that the performance of a base isolated RC structure is more affected by increasing the height of a story under nearfault motion than under far-fault motion.
Diagnosis, management, histology and genetics of sporadic primary hyperparathyroidism: old knowledge with new tricks
Authors: Mizamtsidi Maria , Nastos Constantinos , Mastorakos George , Dina Roberto , Vassiliou Ioannis , Gazouli Maria , Palazzo Fausto
Published: January 2018

Primary hyperparathyroidism (pHPT) is a common endocrinopathy resulting from inappropriately high PTH secretion. It usually results from the presence of a single gland adenoma, multiple gland hyperplasia or rarely parathyroid carcinoma. All these conditions require different management, and it is important to be able to differentiate the underlined pathology, in order for the clinicians to provide the best therapeutic approach. Elucidation of the genetic background of each of these clinical entities would be of great interest. However, the molecular factors that control parathyroid tumorigenesis are poorly understood. There are data implicating the existence of specific genetic pathways involved in the emergence of parathyroid tumorigenesis. The main focus of the present study is to present the current optimal diagnostic and management protocols for pHPT as well as to review the literature regarding all molecular and genetic pathways that are to be involved in the pathophysiology of sporadic pHPT.
Mitotane treatment in patients with metastatic testicular Leydig cell tumor associated with severe androgen excess
Authors: Chortis Vasileios , Johal Nicholas J , Bancos Irina , Evans Matthew , Skordilis Kassiani , Guest Peter , Cullen Michael H , Porfiri Emilio , Arlt Wiebke
Published: January 2018

Mitotane (o,p′DDD) is established in the adjuvant and advanced-stage treatment of adrenocortical carcinoma and counteracts both tumor growth and tumor-related steroid production. Both the adrenal glands and the gonads are steroidogenically active organs and share a common embryogenic origin. Here, we describe the effects of mitotane in two patients with metastatic Leydig cell tumor (LCT) of the testes and associated severe androgen excess (serum testosterone 93 and 88 nmol/L, respectively; male reference range 7–27 nmol/L). Both men suffered from severe restlessness, insomnia and irritability, which they described as intolerable and disrupting normal life activities. Urinary steroid profiling by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) confirmed excess androgen production and revealed concurrent overproduction of glucocorticoids and glucocorticoid precursors, which under physiological conditions are produced only by the adrenal glands but not by the gonads. In a palliative approach, they were commenced on mitotane, which achieved swift control of the hormone excess and the debilitating clinical symptoms, restoring normal quality of life. GC–MS demonstrated normalization of steroid production and decreased 5α-reductase activity, resulting in decreased androgen activation, and imaging demonstrated disease stabilization for 4–10 months. In conclusion, mitotane can be highly effective in controlling steroid excess in metastatic LCTs, with anti-tumor activity in some cases.
Earlier post-operative hypocortisolemia may predict durable remission from Cushing’s disease
Authors: Ironside Natasha , Chatain Gregoire , Asuzu David , Benzo Sarah , Lodish Maya , Sharma Susmeeta , Nieman Lynnette , Stratakis Constantine A , Lonser Russell R , Chittiboina Prashant
Published: January 2018

Context

Achievement of hypocortisolemia following transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for Cushing’s disease (CD) is associated with successful adenoma resection. However, up to one-third of these patients recur.

Objective

We assessed whether delay in reaching post-operative cortisol nadir may delineate patients at risk of recurrence for CD following TSS.

Methods

A retrospective review of 257 patients who received 291 TSS procedures for CD at NIH, between 2003 and 2016. Early biochemical remission (serum cortisol nadir <5 μg/dL) was confirmed with endocrinological and clinical follow-up. Recurrence was detected by laboratory testing, clinical stigmata or medication dependence during a median follow-up of 11 months.

Results

Of the 268 unique admissions, remission was recorded in 241 instances. Recurrence was observed in 9% of these cases with cortisol nadir ≤5 μg/dL and 6% of cases with cortisol nadir ≤2 μg/dL. The timing of hypocortisolemia was critical in detecting late recurrences. Morning POD-1 cortisol <3.3 μg/dL was 100% sensitive in predicting durable remission and morning POD-3 cortisol ≥18.5 μg/dL was 98.6% specific in predicting remote recurrence. AUROC analysis revealed that hypocortisolemia ≤5 µg/dL before 15 h (post-operative) had 95% sensitivity and an NPV of 0.98 for durable remission. Serum cortisol level ≤2 µg/dL, when achieved before 21 h, improved sensitivity to 100%.

Conclusions

In our cohort, early, profound hypocortisolemia could be used as a clinical prediction tool for durable remission. Achievement of hypocortisolemia ≤2 µg/dL before 21 post-operative hours appeared to accurately predict durable remission in the intermediate term.
Voluntary exercise and depression-like behavior in rodents: are we running in the right direction?
Authors: Mul Joram D
Published: January 2018

Acute or chronic exposure to stress can increase the risk to develop major depressive disorder, a severe, recurrent and common psychiatric condition. Depression places an enormous social and financial burden on modern society. Although many depressed patients are treated with antidepressants, their efficacy is only modest, underscoring the necessity to develop clinically effective pharmaceutical or behavioral treatments. Exercise training produces beneficial effects on stress-related mental disorders, indicative of clinical potential. The pro-resilient and antidepressant effects of exercise training have been documented for several decades. Nonetheless, the underlying molecular mechanisms and the brain circuitries involved remain poorly understood. Preclinical investigations using voluntary wheel running, a frequently used rodent model that mimics aspects of human exercise training, have started to shed light on the molecular adaptations, signaling pathways and brain nuclei underlying the beneficial effects of exercise training on stress-related behavior. In this review, I highlight several neurotransmitter systems that are putative mediators of the beneficial effects of exercise training on mental health, and review recent rodent studies that utilized voluntary wheel running to promote our understanding of exercise training-induced central adaptations. Advancements in our mechanistic understanding of how exercise training induces beneficial neuronal adaptations will provide a framework for the development of new strategies to treat stress-associated mental illnesses.
АВТОМАТИЗОВАНА СИСТЕМА ОБЛІКУ ПРОДУКТІВ ПЕРЕРОБКИ КОМБІНАТУ ХЛІБОПРОДУКТІВ
Authors: СОЛДАТЕНКО Л. С.
Published: January 2018

Автоматизовану систему обліку продуктів переробки комбінату хлібопродуктів розроблено НВУ «ТОМ», м. Одеса, Україна.  Система здійснює поточний контроль маси зерна, борошна, побічних продуктів і відходів, а також забезпечує оперативне надання результатів обліку виробничим і фінансовим службам підприємства. Для цього вона вміщує: пункти зважування автотранспорту і залізничних вагонів; вагову дільницю комбінату хлібопродуктів; пункти збирання і обробки інформації на складі готової продукції і у бухгалтерії заводоуправління. Система передбачає застосування електронно-тензометричних ваг: платформних автомобільних і вагонних, а також бункерних для зважування зерна, відходів, борошна і висівок. Принцип дії електронно-тензометричних ваг базується на перетворенні сили ваги вантажу у аналоговий сигнал ваговимірювальних тензорезисторних датчиків з подальшим аналого-цифровим перетворенням сигналу вторинним перетворювачем – ваговим терміналом і видачею результату на табло індикації. Описані принципи функціонування системи і її програмне забезпечення. Наведені технічні характеристики платформних і бункерних ваг системи обліку, а також особливості їх конструкції. Бункерні автоматичні ваги НВФ «СВЕДА LTD», м. Запоріжжя, Україна, описані більш детально, бо сучасні довідники, підручники і навчальні посібники цієї інформації ще не вміщують, а вона може бути корисною як фахівцям промисловості, так і студентам відповідних навчальних закладів. Як походить зі схеми (рис. 1), автоматизована система вміщує тензометричні аналого-цифрові перетворювачі (АЦП), які перетворюють аналогові сигнали тензодатчиків у відповідний цифровий код. Відмінність тензо-АЦП від будьяких інших АЦП в тому, що вони вміщують також стабілізоване джерело живлення, яке живить тензодатчики, виробляє опорну напругу для перетворювача і перетворюють код, отриманий від вторинного перетворювача, в значення маси, здійснюють її індикацію і передачу інформації про визначену масу в систему обліку.
A PESQUISA SOBRE POLÍTICA EDUCACIONAL NO BRASIL: ANÁLISE DE ASPECTOS TEÓRICO-EPISTEMOLÓGICOS
Authors: Mainardes Jefferson
Published: January 2018

Resumo: Apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa que objetivou identificar os referenciais teórico-epistemológicos empregados em pesquisas de política educacional, a partir da análise de 140 artigos publicados entre 2010 a 2012, em sete periódicos brasileiros. O referencial teórico fundamenta-se nas discussões do enfoque das epistemologias da política educacional e da metapesquisa e nos conceitos de teorização combinada e teorização adicionada (McLENNAN, 1996). A partir dos dados analisados, são apresentados alguns desafios para a pesquisa no campo da política educacional.
INTERESFINCTERIAL LIGATION OF FISTULA TRACT (LIFT) FOR PATIENTS WITH ANAL FISTULAS: A BRAZILIAN BI-INSTITUTIONAL EXPERIENCE
Authors: ARAÚJO Sérgio Eduardo Alonso , MARCANTE Marcelli Tainah , MENDES Carlos Ramon Siveira , BERTONCINI Alexandre Bruno , SEID Victor Edmond , HORCEL Lucas Araujo , PEREZ Rodrigo Oliva , KLAJNER Sidney
Published: January 2018

ABSTRACT Background : The best treatment for anal fistula should extirpate infection and promote healing of the tract, whilst preserving the anal sphincter complex and full continence. Aim: To analyze the success rate after a modified technique for ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) for patients with anal fistulas. Methods: A prospective (observational cohort study) Brazilian bi-institutional experience with a modified (ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract without excision) LIFT technique was undertaken. A clinical database was settled for the following variables: age, gender, BMI, comorbidities, distance between external orifice and the anus, previous fistula surgery, type of fistula, operative time, intra- and postoperative complications, duration of follow-up, and success rate. Results: Between November 2015 and January 2017, 38 patients with transsphincteric fistulas were operated on using the modified LIFT procedure. Seventeen (44.7%) were men. Median age was 41 (18-67) years. Median BMI was 26.4 (22-38) kg/m2. Five (13.2%) had undergone previous surgery. The fistula was transsphincteric in all cases. Median follow-up was 32 (range, 14-56) weeks. Success was observed in 30 (79%) patients. Conclusions: The LIFT technique without excision of the fistula tract proved to be safe and effective for transsphincteric anal fistulas.
HEPATOCELLULAR CARCINOMA: DIAGNOSIS AND OPERATIVE MANAGEMENT
Authors: CHEDID Marcio F. , KRUEL Cleber R. P. , PINTO Marcelo A. , GREZZANA-FILHO Tomaz J. M. , LEIPNITZ Ian , KRUEL Cleber D. P. , SCAFFARO Leandro A. , CHEDID Aljamir D.
Published: January 2018

ABSTRACT Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma is an aggressive malignant tumor with high lethality. Aim: To review diagnosis and management of hepatocellular carcinoma. Methods: Literature review using web databases Medline/PubMed. Results: Hepatocellular carcinoma is a common complication of hepatic cirrhosis. Chronic viral hepatitis B and C also constitute as risk factors for its development. In patients with cirrhosis, hepatocelular carcinoma usually rises upon malignant transformation of a dysplastic regenerative nodule. Differential diagnosis with other liver tumors is obtained through computed tomography scan with intravenous contrast. Magnetic resonance may be helpful in some instances. The only potentially curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma is tumor resection, which may be performed through partial liver resection or liver transplantation. Only 15% of all hepatocellular carcinomas are amenable to operative treatment. Patients with Child C liver cirrhosis are not amenable to partial liver resections. The only curative treatment for hepatocellular carcinomas in patients with Child C cirrhosis is liver transplantation. In most countries, only patients with hepatocellular carcinoma under Milan Criteria are considered candidates to a liver transplant. Conclusion: Hepatocellular carcinoma is potentially curable if discovered in its initial stages. Medical staff should be familiar with strategies for early diagnosis and treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma as a way to decrease mortality associated with this malignant neoplasm.
Prenatal development of the sound transmitting apparatus in different embryonic stages of Malpolon monsspesulanus (squamata-serpentes)
Authors: Dakrory A. I. , Abu-Taira A. M. , EL-Din E. Y. Salah , Mohamed Y. B.
Published: January 2018

Abstract The developmental investigation of sound transmitting apparatus is important in understanding the ontogenetic processes behind morphological diversity. The development of sound conducting apparatus was studied in Montpellier snake; Malpolon monspessulanus at 6.5, 7.2, 8.3 and 9.3 cm total body lengths using light microscopy study. The columella auris firstly appeared as undifferentiated rod shape mesenchymal cells. As the growth proceeded, it chondrified and differentiates into two main parts. In addition, the viscerocranium components which participate in formation of sound transmitting apparatus undergo critical organization. In more advanced stages, procartilagenous stylohyal chondrified and fuse with the well organized quadrate. These data considered as a base for functional and molecular mechanisms of sound transmitting apparatus studies and identification of diseases that may infect them.