bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome following inhalation anesthesia in birds at a veterinary referral hospital: 352 cases (2004–2014)
Authors: Seamon Amanda B. , Hofmeister Erik H. , Divers Stephen J.
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE To determine the outcome in birds undergoing inhalation anesthesia and identify patient or procedure variables associated with an increased likelihood of anesthesia-related death.

DESIGN Retrospective case series.

ANIMALS 352 birds that underwent inhalation anesthesia.

PROCEDURES Medical records of birds that underwent inhalation anesthesia from January 1, 2004, through December 31, 2014, at a single veterinary referral hospital were reviewed. Data collected included date of visit, age, species, sex, type (pet, free ranging, or wild kept in captivity), body weight, body condition score, diagnosis, procedure, American Society of Anesthesiologists status, premedication used for anesthesia, drug for anesthetic induction, type of maintenance anesthesia, route and type of fluid administration, volumes of crystalloid and colloid fluids administered, intraoperative events, estimated blood loss, duration of anesthesia, surgery duration, recovery time, recovery notes, whether birds survived to hospital discharge, time of death, total cost of hospitalization, cost of anesthesia, and nadir and peak values for heart rate, end-tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide, concentration of inhaled anesthetic, and body temperature. Comparisons were made between birds that did and did not survive to hospital discharge.

RESULTS Of 352 birds, 303 (86%) were alive at hospital discharge, 12 (3.4%) died during anesthesia, 15 (4.3%) died in the intensive care unit after anesthesia, and 22 (6.3%) were euthanatized after anesthesia. Overall, none of the variables studied were associated with survival to hospital discharge versus not surviving to hospital discharge.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results confirmed previous findings that indicated birds have a high mortality rate during and after anesthesia, compared with mortality rates published for dogs and cats.
Treatment of urethral obstruction secondary to caudal bladder displacement, trigonal invagination, and urethral kinking in a dog
Authors: Kanakubo Kayo , Palm Carrie A. , Korner Amber L. , Culp William T. N.
Published: October 2017

CASE DESCRIPTION A 15-year-old spayed female mixed-breed dog was evaluated for a 7-week history of stranguria, pollakiuria, and intermittent urethral obstruction.

CLINICAL FINDINGS On initial evaluation, the patient had persistent stranguria with lack of urine production; after multiple unsuccessful attempts to urinate, a large volume of urine was produced. Prior to voiding the large volume, the urinary bladder was not palpable during examination. Abdominal ultrasonography confirmed caudal displacement of the urinary bladder, and the urethra and trigone could not be located ultrasonographically. Positive-contrast cystourethrography and CT confirmed caudal displacement of the urinary bladder and also revealed trigonal invagination and urethral kinking; dysuria was attributed to these findings.

TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Surgical repositioning of the lower urinary tract was performed. The urinary bladder was moved cranially and was fixed in place along the left lateral aspect of the body wall by cystopexy. After surgery, positive-contrast cystourethrography revealed a more cranial positioning of the urinary bladder and straightening of the urethra with no urethral kinking or trigonal invagination. Immediately after surgery, stranguria had resolved and the patient was able to void normally. Two years after surgery, the dog was reported to be urinating normally.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE Surgical correction of caudal urinary bladder displacement with cystopexy led to resolution of trigonal invagination, urethral kinking, and urethral obstruction in the dog of the present report. Trigonal invagination and urethral kinking, although uncommon findings, should be considered as possible causes of dysuria in dogs.
Clinical features, treatment, and outcome in goats with thymomas: 13 cases (1990–2014)
Authors: Hill Jacqueline A. , Fubini Susan L. , Hackett Richard P.
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE To determine the anatomic location and clinical signs of thymoma in goats and long-term outcomes in a subset of goats treated by tumor excision.

DESIGN Retrospective case series.

ANIMALS 13 goats with a histologic diagnosis of thymoma at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals between 1990 and 2014.

PROCEDURES Medical records of goats with thymoma were reviewed and data were evaluated regarding signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic imaging results, thymoma size, treatment, and outcome. Follow-up information was obtained via contact with the owners and review of medical records.

RESULTS 8 goats had a mediastinal mass, 4 had a palpable ventral cervical mass, and 1 had both types of masses. Median age at the time of diagnosis was 9.5 years (range, 3 to 12 years). Goats with a mediastinal mass had respiratory distress or marked tachypnea. Six goats were treated surgically, including all 5 with a ventral cervical mass. All 5 goats with a ventral cervical mass survived with no tumor recurrence for ≥ 1 year after excision. Only 2 goats with a mediastinal mass survived to hospital discharge.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that the prognosis for goats following excision of ventral cervical thymomas was favorable, whereas goats with mediastinal thymomas appeared more likely to have severe clinical signs and a guarded prognosis.
Antimycobacterial Potential of Indian Spices: A Review
Authors: Chaudhary Neha , Mehra Varsha , Mago Payal , Khatri Manisha
Published: October 2017

Natural products and their plant-derived analogs are often a source of drugs or drug templates with limited toxicity, which has the potential to mitigate compliance issues during protracted administration.Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB) infection, represents a major health problem globally. Despite the introduction of inexpensive and effective four-drug (isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide and ethambutol) treatment regimen 40 years ago, TB continues to cause considerable morbidity and mortality worldwide. Global efforts are underway to eradicate TB using new drugs with new modes of action, higher activity, and fewer side effects in combination with vaccines. Since ancient times, different plant part extracts have been used as traditional medicines against diseases including tuberculosis. This knowledge may be useful in developing future powerful drugs. In this regard this review article is an attempt to investigate the antimycobacterial activity of the spices as an alternative and highlight them for further investigation as leads for drug development. The choice of spice as an alternative is based on two basic reasons: firstly, plants have been the model source of medicine since ancient times and secondly, the increasing acceptance of herbal medicines by general population.
Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Pereira Fábio
Published: October 2017

O armazenamento de energia pode ser efetuado sobre cinco categorias, designadamente, elétrica, eletromecânica, mecânica, térmica e química. Contudo, o assunto aqui debatido é sobre meios de armazenamento de energia elétrica, sendo que o armazenamento de eletricidade é usualmente efetuado recorrendo a outros géneros de energia, tais como, química, mecânica, térmica ou, até, em energia potencial.
Proposta de Metodologia para Avaliação de Software Comercial Destinado ao Projecto de Engenharia da Construção
Authors: Duarte Ana Paula de Freitas Assis Antunes
Published: October 2017

A partir da década de noventa do século passado, começaram a surgir no mercado ferramentas de cálculo com o objetivo de agilizar a conceção do projeto de engenharia da construção. Até ao final da década de setenta os computadores existentes eram enormes, apenas entidades de grande poder económico os podiam adquirir. Na década de oitenta surgiu no mercado o PC, Personal Computer, estas pequenas máquinas começaram a ser adquiridas pela generalidade das empresas e em Portugal no final desta década era possível encontrar indivíduos que já possuíam o seu PC.
Power Over Ethernet
Authors: Ramos Sérgio Filipe Carvalho
Published: October 2017

Mal sabia o Italiano Antonio Santi Giuseppe Meucci na segunda metade do século XIX (1870-1876), que a sua invenção iria alcançar um êxito sem precedente e que mudaria por completo o estilo de vida das gerações vindouras: o “Telettrofono” (telégrafo falante). Porém, e por necessidade, acabou por vender o protótipo e seus respetivos direitos, a Alexander Graham Bell, o qual ficou historicamente conhecido como o inventor do telefone.Com efeito, o telefone quase que dispensa apresentação. É um dispositivo de telecomunicações que entrou paulatinamente nas vidas das pessoas, seja no lazer, no exercícios das suas profissões, em situações de emergência, em teatro de guerra, num infindável número de situações, e que foi simplesmente planeado para transmitir sons por meio de sinais elétricos em condutores próprios para o efeito (vias telefónicas).
Eficiência Energética na Iluminação Pública
Authors: Brandão Roque Filipe Mesquita
Published: October 2017

A iluminação pública é responsável por 3% do consumo de energia elétrica, em Portugal, tendo havido um crescimento no consumo de energia elétrica neste setor, entre 2000 e 2011, de cerca de 55%, com uma taxa média de crescimento anual de cerca de 5,1%. No ano de 2011, os custos com a iluminação pública rondaram os 170 M€, sendo que grande parte foram assegurados pelos Municípios.
Manual de Boas Práticas para Cadastro de IP
Authors: Zeller Alberto Van
Published: October 2017

Nos últimos meses o CPI (Centro Português de Iluminação) tem realizado uma série de seminários, por todo o País, para divulgar o seu último documento, recentemente impresso, ”Manual de Boas práticas para Cadastro de IP”. É pertinente perguntar porque é que havendo iluminação pública há mais de 100 anos em Portugal, se lembra agora o CPI da criação de um ” Manual de Boas práticas para Cadastro de IP”.As razões para a criação de um documento sobre um tema aparentemente fácil e óbvio são muitas, como veremos mais adiante.
Efecto de un programa educativo en el nivel de conocimiento sobre diabetes mellitus 2 en niños de una institucion educativa de Lima
Authors: Boza Jara Diego Jesus , Echeandia Arellano Juana Virginia Esperanza
Published: October 2017

Objetivo. Determinar el efecto de un programa educativo sobre el nivel de conocimientos en la prevención de la diabetes mellitus tipo 2 en niños del nivel primario de una institución educativa en Lima. Materiales y métodos. Estudio cuasiexperimental pre post de un solo grupo. Se incluyeron a 113 niños del cuarto y quinto grado de primaria, en una institución educativa en Lima Norte. Se aplicó un programa educativo multicomponente para prevención de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 que abarcó cuatro dimensiones: información de la enfermedad, actividad física, prevención de la obesidad y alimentación saludable. Se midió el nivel de conocimientos antes y después de la intervención mediante un cuestionario validado, clasificando esta variable en alto, medio y bajo. Resultados. Se encontraron diferencias significativas en las medias de los puntajes de las dimensiones: Información de la Enfermedad (p<0,001), Actividad Física (p=0,017) y Alimentación Saludable (p<0,001). El porcentaje de respuestas adecuadas disminuyó en dos de tres preguntas de la dimensión Actividad Física. Antes del programa educativo, el 66,3% de los estudiantes presentaba un nivel de conocimiento medio de la prevención de la diabetes; mientras que, después del programa educativo, 70,8% de los evaluados presentó un nivel alto. Conclusiones. La aplicación del programa educativo “Desde niños, juntos contra la diabetes” aumenta el nivel de conocimiento sobre la prevención de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 en niños del cuarto y quinto grado de una institución educativa en Lima.
Biomolecular-conjugated nanoparticles for
biomedical applications
Authors: Goyal Prachi , Parmar Kamani , Gupta Sonika , Sharma Mukesh , Dobhal M. P. , Rao Sambasiva
Published: October 2017

Bimolecular-conjugated nanoparticles (NP) demonstrate unique properties with wide-ranging
applications in the diagnosis of infectious diseases as well as application in gene therapy and drug
delivery therapies. The unique properties and utility of NP arise from a variety of attributes, including
the similar size of nanoparticles and biomolecules. Biological functions depend primarily on units that
have nanoscale dimensions, such as viruses, ribosomes, molecular motors and components of the
extra cellular matrix. In addition, engineered devices at the nanoscale are small enough to interact
directly with sub-cellular compartments and to probe intracellular events. This review focuses on the
methods of nanoparticle interaction with different biomolecules such as antibodies, DNA, lipids, and
proteins. More specifically, there is discussion about bioconjugation linkage and a summary of
potential biomedical applications of bio-conjugated nanoparticles as targeted drug delivery vehicles.
First principles, thermal stability and thermodynamic assessment of the binary Ni–W system
Authors: Isomäki Iikka , Hämäläinen Marko , Braga Maria H. , Gasik Michael
Published: October 2017

The Ni–W binary system was assessed using critically evaluated experimental data with assistance from first principles analysis and the CALPHAD method. The solution phases (liquid, fcc-A1 and bcc-A2) were modeled using the substitutional regular solution model. The recently discovered Ni8W metastable phase was evaluated as Fe16C2-like martensite with three sublattices, and shown to be possibly stable according to first principles calculations. Ni8W was also modeled as an interstitial compound, but the model is not good because the solubility of tungsten in nickel is very low, especially at low temperatures. There is no experimental evidence for such low solubility. The other binary compounds Ni4W and Ni3W were assessed as stoichiometric ones. Compared independent experimental and first principles data agree well with the calculated phase diagram using updated thermodynamic parameters.
A study on effects of a new two-step strain induced melt activation process on characteristics of Al 7075 alloy
Authors: Karamouz Mostafa , Alizadeh Mostafa , Ahmadi Alireza
Published: October 2017

It is well-known that the strain induced melt activation process results in a globular microstructure which improves the hardness and the ultimate tensile stress. However, its disadvantage is degrading some other properties such as elongation and formability due to the presence of continuous and brittle intermetallic compounds along with the formation of eutectic structures at grain boundaries. Hence, the aim of this research is to introduce a new process called two-step strain induced melt activation to overcome these drawbacks and to improve the microstructure and the formability of Al 7075 alloy. This new process yielded a globular structure and modified the microstructure. Also, the resultant precipitates were discontinuous with a more homogeneous distribution and the eutectic mixture was eliminated. Moreover, the alloy formability and the hardness were effectively enhanced by performing a rolling process.
The Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) in early modern Scotland
Authors: Raye L.
Published: October 2017

Gessner's Historia animalium preserves scholarly opinions from naturalists and humanists from across sixteenth-century Europe. One such view comes from Bonarus of Balice, south-east Poland. Bonarus attests that although the Eurasian Lynx (Lynx Lynx) is common throughout central and eastern Europe, the best skins come from Sweden and, surprisingly, Scotland. After exploring evidence about who Bonarus was and why he might have written to Gessner, this essay builds up two possible explanations for Bonarus's opinion that Lynx populations were present in sixteenth-century Scotland:

Either, native populations of European Lynxes may have still been present in Scotland in the sixteenth century; British Lynx remains have been dated to the sixth century. The Lynx could possibly have survived longer without being noticed in records if it was customarily called a “cat”, like other large felids. However, other than Bonarus's attestation, there is only tentative positive evidence consistent with this interpretation; most importantly the ambiguous testimony of Robert Sibbald in 1684.

Or, Scotland may have “tricked” Bonarus by importing and then re-exporting fine, exotic furs. There is evidence that Scotland had a major fur industry. Eurasian Lynx fur had a high status. Furs were commonly re-exported in the fourteenth century. Scots merchants often imported high-status furs like Lynx into Poland in the sixteenth century, suggesting that Bonarus had the highest possible chance of seeing Scottish-fashioned Lynx furs.

This essay argues that, on balance of the evidence, the second interpretation is the stronger of the two, although the first is also possible.
Temporal Change in Aboveground Culms Carbon Stocks in the Moso Bamboo Forests and Its Driving Factors in Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Xu Lin , Shi Yongjun , Zhou Guomo , Xu Xiaojun , Liu Enbing , Zhou Yufeng , Li Chong , Fang Huiyun , Deng Xu
Published: October 2017

Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys pubescens) has high carbon sequestration potential and plays an important role in terrestrial carbon cycling. Quantifying the temporal change in Moso bamboo forest carbon stocks is important for understanding forest dynamics and global climate change feedback capacity. In 2009, 168 Moso bamboo forest sample plots were established in Zhejiang Province using National Forest Continuous Inventory protocols and enhanced measurements. These plots were revisited and remeasured in 2014. By comparing the two years, culms number in age classes 2 and 4 increased by 12.3% and 82.5%, respectively, while that in age classes 1 and 3 decreased by 14.7% and 0.03%, respectively. The total aboveground culms carbon stocks increased by 2.95 Mg C ha−1 in the sample plots. On average, age classes 2 and 4 contributed 25.5% and 86.7% of the change in total carbon stocks, respectively. The carbon sequestrated by aboveground culms was 0.42 Tg C year−1, accounting for 1.55 Tg CO2 year−1 in Moso bamboo over an area of 0.78 million hectares in Zhejiang Province. The change in Moso bamboo carbon stocks did not correlate with environmental factors, but significantly increased with increasing culms number and average diameter at breast height (DBH). Our study helps contribute to improvements in Moso bamboo forest management strategies and promote carbon sequestration capacity.
Seasonal Variations in Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorus Concentrations and C:N:P Stoichiometry in the Leaves of Differently Aged Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr. Plantations
Authors: Li Hailiang , Crabbe M. , Xu Fuli , Wang Weiling , Niu Ruilong , Gao Xing , Zhang Pei , Chen Haikui
Published: October 2017

The concentrations and stoichiometry of certain elements (carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus) are critical to the maintenance of plant functional and environmental adaptation during plant growth. We explore how the concentrations of C, N and P and the ratios of C:N, C:P, and N:P in the leaves of differently aged Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr. plantations changed with growing season and stand age from 2012 to 2015 in the Qinling Mountains, China. The results showed that the element concentration and stoichiometric ratios in leaves were significantly affected by sampling month, stand age and sampling year; and multiple correlations with stand age were observed in different growing seasons. Compared to global element concentrations and stoichiometry in plants, the leaves of larch stands in the study region had higher C and P concentrations and C:N and C:P ratios but lower N concentrations and N:P ratios than global levels. The leaf N:P ratios of all of the larch stands were generally less than 14, suggesting that the growth of larch stands was limited by N in the study region. Our study facilitates the management and restoration of forest plantation and provides a valuable contribution to the global pool of leaf nutrition and stoichiometry data.
Factors Affecting Transfer of Pyrethroid Residues from Herbal Teas to Infusion and Influence of Physicochemical Properties of Pesticides
Authors: Xiao Jin-Jing , Li Yang , Fang Qing-Kui , Shi Yan-Hong , Liao Min , Wu Xiang-Wei , Hua Ri-Mao , Cao Hai-Qun
Published: October 2017

The transfer of pesticide residues from herbal teas to their infusion is a subject of particular interest. In this study, a multi-residue analytical method for the determination of pyrethroids (fenpropathrin, beta-cypermethrin, lambda-cyhalothrin, and fenvalerate) in honeysuckle, chrysanthemum, wolfberry, and licorice and their infusion samples was validated. The transfer of pyrethroid residues from tea to infusion was investigated at different water temperatures, tea/water ratios, and infusion intervals/times. The results show that low amounts (0–6.70%) of pyrethroids were transferred under the different tea brewing conditions examined, indicating that the infusion process reduced the pyrethroid content in the extracted liquid by over 90%. Similar results were obtained for the different tea varieties, and pesticides with high water solubility and low octanol–water partition coefficients (log Kow) exhibited high transfer rates. Moreover, the estimated values of the exposure risk to the pyrethroids were in the range of 0.0022–0.33, indicating that the daily intake of the four pyrethroid residues from herbal tea can be regarded as safe. The present results can support the identification of suitable tea brewing conditions for significantly reducing the pesticide residue levels in the infusion.
Tackling Complex Emergency Response Solutions Evaluation Problems in Sustainable Development by Fuzzy Group Decision Making Approaches with Considering Decision Hesitancy and Prioritization among Assessing Criteria
Authors: Qi Xiao-Wen , Zhang Jun-Ling , Zhao Shu-Ping , Liang Chang-Yong
Published: October 2017

In order to be prepared against potential balance-breaking risks affecting economic development, more and more countries have recognized emergency response solutions evaluation (ERSE) as an indispensable activity in their governance of sustainable development. Traditional multiple criteria group decision making (MCGDM) approaches to ERSE have been facing simultaneous challenging characteristics of decision hesitancy and prioritization relations among assessing criteria, due to the complexity in practical ERSE problems. Therefore, aiming at the special type of ERSE problems that hold the two characteristics, we investigate effective MCGDM approaches by hiring interval-valued dual hesitant fuzzy set (IVDHFS) to comprehensively depict decision hesitancy. To exploit decision information embedded in prioritization relations among criteria, we firstly define an fuzzy entropy measure for IVDHFS so that its derivative decision models can avoid potential information distortion in models based on classic IVDHFS distance measures with subjective supplementing mechanism; further, based on defined entropy measure, we develop two fundamental prioritized operators for IVDHFS by extending Yager’s prioritized operators. Furthermore, on the strength of above methods, we construct two hesitant fuzzy MCGDM approaches to tackle complex scenarios with or without known weights for decision makers, respectively. Finally, case studies have been conducted to show effectiveness and practicality of our proposed approaches.
Arsenic Removal from Groundwater by Solar Driven Inline-Electrolytic Induced Co-Precipitation and Filtration—A Long Term Field Test Conducted in West Bengal
Authors: Otter Philipp , Malakar Pradyut , Jana Bana , Grischek Thomas , Benz Florian , Goldmaier Alexander , Feistel Ulrike , Jana Joydev , Lahiri Susmita , Alvarez Juan
Published: October 2017

Arsenic contamination in drinking water resources is of major concern in the Ganga delta plains of West Bengal in India and Bangladesh. Here, several laboratory and field studies on arsenic removal from drinking water resources were conducted in the past and the application of strong-oxidant-induced co-precipitation of arsenic on iron hydroxides is still considered as the most promising mechanism. This paper suggests an autonomous, solar driven arsenic removal setting and presents the findings of a long term field test conducted in West Bengal. The system applies an inline-electrolytic cell for in situ chlorine production using the natural chloride content of the water and by that substituting the external dosing of strong oxidants. Co-precipitation of As(V) occurs on freshly formed iron hydroxide, which is removed by Manganese Greensand Plus® filtration. The test was conducted for ten months under changing source water conditions considering arsenic (187 ± 45 µg/L), iron (5.5 ± 0.8 mg/L), manganese (1.5 ± 0.4 mg/L), phosphate (2.4 ± 1.3 mg/L) and ammonium (1.4 ± 0.5 mg/L) concentrations. Depending on the system setting removal rates of 94% for arsenic (10 ± 4 µg/L), >99% for iron (0.03 ± 0.03 mg/L), 96% for manganese (0.06 ± 0.05 mg/L), 72% for phosphate (0.7 ± 0.3 mg/L) and 84% for ammonium (0.18 ± 0.12 mg/L) were achieved—without the addition of any chemicals/adsorbents. Loading densities of arsenic on iron hydroxides averaged to 31 µgAs/mgFe. As the test was performed under field conditions and the here proposed removal mechanisms work fully autonomously, it poses a technically feasible treatment alternative, especially for rural areas.
Monitoring of the Nirano Mud Volcanoes Regional Natural Reserve (North Italy) using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and Terrestrial Laser Scanning
Authors: Santagata Tommaso
Published: October 2017

In the last years, measurement instruments and techniques for three-dimensional mapping as Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) and photogrammetry from Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) are being increasingly used to monitor topographic changes on particular geological features such as volcanic areas. In addition, topographic instruments such as Total Station Theodolite (TST) and GPS receivers can be used to obtain precise elevation and coordinate position data measuring fixed points both inside and outside the area interested by volcanic activity. In this study, the integration of these instruments has helped to obtain several types of data to monitor both the variations in heights of extrusive edifices within the mud volcano field of the Nirano Regional Natural Reserve (Northern Italy), as well as to study the mechanism of micro-fracturing and the evolution of mud flows and volcanic cones with very high accuracy by 3D point clouds surface analysis and digitization. The large amount of data detected were also analysed to derive morphological information about mud-cracks and surface roughness. This contribution is focused on methods and analysis performed using measurement instruments as TLS and UAV to study and monitoring the main volcanic complexes of the Nirano Natural Reserve as part of a research project, which also involves other studies addressing gases and acoustic measurements, mineralogical and paleontological analysis, organized by the University of Modena and Reggio Emilia in collaboration with the Municipality of Fiorano Modenese.
Hydrothermal Microflow Technology as a Research Tool for Origin-of-Life Studies in Extreme Earth Environments
Authors: Kawamura Kunio
Published: October 2017

Although studies about the origin of life are a frontier in science and a number of effective approaches have been developed, drawbacks still exist. Examples include: (1) simulation of chemical evolution experiments (which were demonstrated for the first time by Stanley Miller); (2) approaches tracing back the most primitive life-like systems (on the basis of investigations of present organisms); and (3) constructive approaches for making life-like systems (on the basis of molecular biology), such as in vitro construction of the RNA world. Naturally, simulation experiments of chemical evolution under plausible ancient Earth environments have been recognized as a potentially fruitful approach. Nevertheless, simulation experiments seem not to be sufficient for identifying the scenario from molecules to life. This is because primitive Earth environments are still not clearly defined and a number of possibilities should be taken into account. In addition, such environments frequently comprise extreme conditions when compared to the environments of present organisms. Therefore, we need to realize the importance of accurate and convenient experimental approaches that use practical research tools, which are resistant to high temperature and pressure, to facilitate chemical evolution studies. This review summarizes improvements made in such experimental approaches over the last two decades, focusing primarily on our hydrothermal microflow reactor technology. Microflow reactor systems are a powerful tool for performing simulation experiments in diverse simulated hydrothermal Earth conditions in order to measure the kinetics of formation and degradation and the interactions of biopolymers.
Biomedical Applications of Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials
Authors: Bhardwaj Vinay , Kaushik Ajeet
Published: October 2017

The spurring growth and clinical adoption of nanomaterials and nanotechnology in medicine, i.e. “nanomedicine”, to shape global health care system is a collective effort that comprises academia research, industrial drive, and political and financial support from government.[...]
A Meta-Analysis to Determine the Impact of Restaurant Menu Labeling on Calories and Nutrients (Ordered or Consumed) in U.S. Adults
Authors: Cantu-Jungles Thaisa , McCormack Lacey , Slaven James , Slebodnik Maribeth , Eicher-Miller Heather
Published: October 2017

A systematic review and meta-analysis determined the effect of restaurant menu labeling on calories and nutrients chosen in laboratory and away-from-home settings in U.S. adults. Cochrane-based criteria adherent, peer-reviewed study designs conducted and published in the English language from 1950 to 2014 were collected in 2015, analyzed in 2016, and used to evaluate the effect of nutrition labeling on calories and nutrients ordered or consumed. Before and after menu labeling outcomes were used to determine weighted mean differences in calories, saturated fat, total fat, carbohydrate, and sodium ordered/consumed which were pooled across studies using random effects modeling. Stratified analysis for laboratory and away-from-home settings were also completed. Menu labeling resulted in no significant change in reported calories ordered/consumed in studies with full criteria adherence, nor the 14 studies analyzed with ≤1 unmet criteria, nor for change in total ordered carbohydrate, fat, and saturated fat (three studies) or ordered or consumed sodium (four studies). A significant reduction of 115.2 calories ordered/consumed in laboratory settings was determined when analyses were stratified by study setting. Menu labeling away-from-home did not result in change in quantity or quality, specifically for carbohydrates, total fat, saturated fat, or sodium, of calories consumed among U.S. adults.
Biocompatible Silk/Polymer Energy Harvesters Using Stretched Poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) Nanofibers
Authors: Najjar Raghid , Luo Yi , Jao Dave , Brennan David , Xue Ye , Beachley Vince , Hu Xiao , Xue Wei
Published: October 2017

Energy harvested from human body movement can produce continuous, stable energy to portable electronics and implanted medical devices. The energy harvesters need to be light, small, inexpensive, and highly portable. Here we report a novel biocompatible device made of poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) nanofibers on flexible substrates. The nanofibers are prepared with electrospinning followed by a stretching process. This results in aligned nanofibers with diameter control. The assembled device demonstrates high mechanical-to-electrical conversion performance, with stretched PVDF-HFP nanofibers outperforming regular electrospun samples by more than 10 times. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) reveals that the stretched nanofibers have a higher β phase content, which is the critical polymorph that enables piezoelectricity in polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is initially selected as the substrate material for its low cost, high flexibility, and rapid prototyping capability. Bombyx Mori silkworm silk fibroin (SF) and its composites are investigated as promising alternatives due to their high strength, toughness, and biocompatibility. A composite of silk with 20% glycerol demonstrates higher strength and larger ultimate strain than PDMS. With the integration of stretched electrospun PVDF-HFP nanofibers and flexible substrates, this pilot study shows a new pathway for the fabrication of biocompatible, skin-mountable energy devices.
Polystyrene Chain Growth from Di-End-Functional Polyolefins for Polystyrene-Polyolefin-Polystyrene Block Copolymers
Authors: Kim Chung , Park Seung , Kim Sung , Kwon Su , Baek Jun , Lee Bun
Published: October 2017

Triblock copolymers of polystyrene (PS) and a polyolefin (PO), e.g., PS-block-poly(ethylene-co-1-butene)-block-PS (SEBS), are attractive materials for use as thermoplastic elastomers and are produced commercially by a two-step process that involves the costly hydrogenation of PS-block-polybutadiene-block-PS. We herein report a one-pot strategy for attaching PS chains to both ends of PO chains to construct PS-block-PO-block-PS directly from olefin and styrene monomers. Dialkylzinc compound containing styrene moieties ((CH2=CHC6H4CH2CH2)2Zn) was prepared, from which poly(ethylene-co-propylene) chains were grown via “coordinative chain transfer polymerization” using the pyridylaminohafnium catalyst to afford di-end functional PO chains functionalized with styrene and Zn moieties. Subsequently, PS chains were attached at both ends of the PO chains by introduction of styrene monomers in addition to the anionic initiator Me3SiCH2Li·(pmdeta) (pmdeta = pentamethyldiethylenetriamine). We found that the fraction of the extracted PS homopolymer was low (~20%) and that molecular weights were evidently increased after the styrene polymerization (ΔMn = 27–54 kDa). Transmission electron microscopy showed spherical and wormlike PS domains measuring several tens of nm segregated within the PO matrix. Optimal tensile properties were observed for the sample containing a propylene mole fraction of 0.25 and a styrene content of 33%. Finally, in the cyclic tensile test, the prepared copolymers exhibited thermoplastic elastomeric properties with no breakage up over 10 cycles, which is comparable to the behavior of commercial-grade SEBS.
Global Registration of 3D LiDAR Point Clouds Based on Scene Features: Application to Structured Environments
Authors: Sanchez Julia , Denis Florence , Checchin Paul , Dupont Florent , Trassoudaine Laurent
Published: October 2017

Acquiring 3D data with LiDAR systems involves scanning multiple scenes from different points of view. In actual systems, the ICP algorithm (Iterative Closest Point) is commonly used to register the acquired point clouds together to form a unique one. However, this method faces local minima issues and often needs a coarse initial alignment to converge to the optimum. This paper develops a new method for registration adapted to indoor environments and based on structure priors of such scenes. Our method works without odometric data or physical targets. The rotation and translation of the rigid transformation are computed separately, using, respectively, the Gaussian image of the point clouds and a correlation of histograms. To evaluate our algorithm on challenging registration cases, two datasets were acquired and are available for comparison with other methods online. The evaluation of our algorithm on four datasets against six existing methods shows that the proposed method is more robust against sampling and scene complexity. Moreover, the time performances enable a real-time implementation.
Class Probability Propagation of Supervised Information Based on Sparse Subspace Clustering for Hyperspectral Images
Authors: Yan Qing , Ding Yun , Xia Yi , Chong Yanwen , Zheng Chunhou
Published: October 2017

Hyperspectral image (HSI) clustering has drawn increasing attention due to its challenging work with respect to the curse of dimensionality. In this paper, we propose a novel class probability propagation of supervised information based on sparse subspace clustering (CPPSSC) algorithm for HSI clustering. Firstly, we estimate the class probability of unlabeled samples by way of partial known supervised information, which can be addressed by sparse representation-based classification (SRC). Then, we incorporate the class probability into the traditional sparse subspace clustering (SSC) model to obtain a more accurate sparse representation coefficient matrix accompanied by obvious block diagonalization, which will be used to build the similarity matrix. Finally, the cluster results can be obtained by applying the spectral clustering on similarity matrix. Extensive experiments on a variety of challenging data sets illustrate that our proposed method is effective.
A 4 mm2 Double Differential Torsional MEMS Accelerometer Based on a Double-Beam Configuration
Authors: Miao Tongqiao , Xiao Dingbang , Li Qingsong , Hou Zhanqiang , Wu Xuezhong
Published: October 2017

This paper reports the design and simulation of a 4 mm2 double differential torsional MEMS accelerometer based on a double-beam configuration. Based on the structure of conventional torsional accelerometers, normally composed of one pair of proof masses and one torsional beam, this work explores the double differential configuration: a torsional accelerometer with two pairs of unbalanced proof masses rotating in reverse. Also, the torsional beam is designed as a double-beam structure, which is a symmetrical structure formed by two torsional beams separated by a certain distance. The device area of the novel accelerometer is more than 50 times smaller than that of a traditional double differential torsional MEMS accelerometer. The FEM simulation results demonstrate that the smaller device does not sacrifice other specifications, such as mechanical sensitivity, nonlinearity and temperature robustness. The mechanical sensitivity and nonlinearity of a ±15 g measuring range is 59.4 fF/g and 0.88%, respectively. Compared with traditional single-beam silicon structures, the novel structure can achieve lower maximum principle stress in critical regions and reduce the possibility of failure when high-g acceleration loading is applied along all three axes. The mechanical noise equivalent acceleration is about 0.13 mg / Hz in the theoretical calculations and the offset temperature coefficient is 0.25 mg/ ℃ in the full temperature range of − 40 ℃ to 60 ℃ .
Assessing Factors Driving the Change of Irrigation Water-Use Efficiency in China Based on Geographical Features
Authors: Fang Shibiao , Jia Renfu , Tu Wenrong , Sun Zhilin
Published: October 2017

Changes in irrigation water-use efficiency are related closely to agricultural development. Clarifying the driving factors of irrigation water-use efficiency change at different agricultural development stages is beneficial for buffering the contradiction between the protection of water resources and massive agricultural water consumption. It also has theoretical and application value when it comes to elucidating the driving characteristics of spatial changes in irrigation water-use efficiency observed among the different provinces of China. This paper analyzes driving factors of irrigation water-use change based on a study of literature and a field survey. It selects 21 indices from five aspects of climatic change, resource endowment, economic situation, technological level, and management mode as the system of driving factors for irrigation water-use change. This article then uses statistical data on economic and social development in the 31 provinces of China in 2009, and applies the principal component analysis (PCA) method to extract the main driving factors affecting irrigation water-use efficiency change. After calculation of factor scores, clustering analysis is conducted on the 31 provinces to explore regional differences among the driving factors of irrigation water-use efficiency change. The results show that these can be attributed to the factors of agricultural economic development, water-saving irrigation technology, water resource endowment, and dissipation. The 31 provinces can be divided into five types: agricultural economy strong driving type; agricultural economy dominant type; industrial economy dominant type; agriculture strong development type; and coordinated driving type. In highly agricultural provinces, mature irrigation district management and water-saving measures influence the efficiency of irrigation water-use, making these strong positive driving factors. In highly industrial provinces, changes in irrigation water-use efficiency are mainly driven by economic development and structural adjustment, making these weak driving factors.
Adsorbate-driven cooling of carbene-based molecular junctions
Authors: Foti Giuseppe , Vázquez Héctor
Published: October 2017

We study the role of an NH2 adsorbate on the current-induced heating and cooling of a neighboring carbene-based molecular circuit. We use first-principles methods of inelastic tunneling transport based on density functional theory and non-equilibrium Green’s functions to calculate the rates of emission and absorbtion of vibrations by tunneling electrons, the population of vibrational modes and the energy stored in them. We find that the charge rearrangement resulting from the adsorbate gates the carbene electronic structure and reduces the density of carbene states near the Fermi level as a function of bias. These effects result in the cooling of carbene modes at all voltages compared to the “clean” carbene-based junction. We also find that the direct influence of adsorbate states is significantly smaller and tends to heat adsorbate vibrations. Our results highlight the important role of molecular adsorbates not only on the electronic and elastic transport properties but also on the current-induced energy exchange and stability under bias of single-molecule circuits.
NUMERICAL INVESTIGATION OF RC BEAMS STRENGTHENED WITH PRESTRESSED CFRP
Authors: DAUGEVIČIUS Mykolas
Published: October 2017

Different strengthening technique was evaluated in order to investigate the effect of prestress. The analysed beams were strengthened with non-prestressed CFRP and prestressed CFRP at different loading levels. It has allowed a better understanding about strengthening effectiveness. Results obtained by finite element analysis were compared with experimental results obtained by other researchers. Phased nonlinear analysis was used to simulate the behaviour of the strengthened beams. Performed analysis showed that it is possible to use finite element analysis in order to investigate a real behaviour of the strengthened elements in real structure.
Quand les fantômes historiques sont convoqués
Authors: Szalkai Gábor , Vonau Elsa
Published: October 2017

Le Ghimeş, dans la haute vallée du Trotuş dans les Carpates orientales roumaines, est devenu à partir de 2008 et en seulement quelques années un haut lieu de la ferveur nationale hongroise. L’article reconstitue le processus de convocation des « fantômes historiques » par des acteurs locaux et extérieurs dans ce petit pays de la minorité Csángós. Il montre comment se combinent l’affirmation identitaire et l’opportunisme économique dans le processus d’invention d’un lieu de mémoire de « la frontière de mille ans » et analyse les effets de la concurrence des symboles sur la réification et la dualisation des identités culturelles et territoriales.
Caractériser l’agriculture périurbaine pour mieux l’intégrer à la planification urbaine : propositions méthodologiques
Authors: Sanz Sanz Esther , Napoléone Claude , Hubert Bernard
Published: October 2017

Les documents d’urbanisme existants tiennent difficilement compte des spécificités de l’agriculture périurbaine en tant qu’activité économique nécessitant des aménagements non obligatoirement adaptés à la vision urbaine des espaces agricoles. Nous proposons une méthodologie de caractérisation des unités spatiales d’agriculture périurbaine ( usapu ) permettant de réaliser un état des lieux des espaces agricoles périurbains adapté aux contraintes des praticiens de l’urbanisme. Notre démarche se veut un outil permettant de focaliser l’action publique sur les zones où elle a le plus de probabilités d’être efficiente dans un projet de territoire.
Qui a peur de la Bourse ?
Authors: Venne Jean-François
Published: October 2017

Le nombre d’entreprises québécoises cotées en Bourse est en chute libre depuis plusieurs années. Ce déclin se fait aussi sentir au Canada et aux États-Unis. Pourquoi la Bourse fait-elle aussi peur ?
Une affaire de passion
Authors: Barès Franck , Cova Bernard
Published: October 2017

Les passions sont-elles des hobbys puérils éloignés de la réalité des affaires ? Au contraire ! Elles sont la source de réussites économiques. Un individu n’est jamais aussi engagé, créatif et efficace que lorsqu’il travaille sur un projet qui le captive. Dans un monde de raison, la passion a sa place. Et ça marche !
Un peu de nous tous pour sauver le monde
Authors: Dutton Robert
Published: October 2017

Les entrepreneurs dérangent. Ce sont des déviants qui s’assument et qui carburent même à leur propre déviance. Et ils changent le monde. Mais changer le monde peut-il suffire à le sauver ?
Méthodes de gestion des ressources humaines : On a tout essayé, sauf la confiance !
Authors: Assens Christophe , Bouchez Jean-Pierre
Published: October 2017

Les entreprises ont adopté depuis plus d’un siècle une succession de modes en management qui visent souvent à rationaliser le travail et à renforcer le contrôle sur les collaborateurs. Cette instrumentalisation a contribué à l’érosion de la confiance dans l’entreprise et à l’épuisement des gestionnaires. Et si on essayait la confiance ?
Increasing Use of Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty for Proximal Humerus Fractures in Elderly Patients
Authors: Rajaee Sean S. , Yalamanchili Dheeraj , Noori Naudereh , Debbi Eytan , Mirocha James , Lin Carol A. , Moon Charles N.
Published: October 2017

This study described surgical treatment patterns for proximal humerus fractures among elderly patients, focusing on reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA), and evaluated how the type of fixation affects inpatient factors (cost, length of stay), transfusion rates, and patient disposition (home vs skilled nursing facility). With Nationwide Inpatient Sample data from 2011 to 2013, the authors identified patients 65 years and older who had proximal humerus fractures and divided them into 3 groups: (1) open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF); (2) hemiarthroplasty; and (3) reverse TSA. From 2011 to 2013, 38,729 surgically treated proximal humerus fractures were identified. The rate of reverse TSA increased 1.8-fold during this time, from 13% of operative cases in 2011 to 24% of operative cases in 2013 (
P
<.001). At the same time, the rates of hemiarthroplasty and ORIF decreased (hemiarthroplasty, from 28% to 21%; ORIF, from 59% to 55%). Although reverse TSA accounted for 32.2% of arthroplasty procedures for proximal humerus fractures in 2011, this value was 53.3% in 2013 (
P
<.001). In 2013, mean total hospital cost for reverse TSA was $24,154, which was significantly higher than that for ORIF ($16,269) or hemiarthroplasty ($19,175) (
P
<.001). In a multivariable model, patients undergoing reverse TSA were less likely than those undergoing hemiarthroplasty to be discharged to a skilled nursing facility (odds ratio, 0.75;
P
=.027). The national rate of reverse TSA nearly doubled from 2011 to 2013. As of 2013, reverse TSA replaced hemiarthroplasty as the most commonly performed arthroplasty procedure for proximal humerus fractures for patients 65 years and older. Patients undergoing reverse TSA were more likely than those undergoing hemiarthroplasty to be discharged home. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(6):e982–e989.]