bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of leak flow rate in plastic water distribution pipes using vibro-acoustic measurements
Authors: Butterfield Joseph D , Meruane Viviana , Collins Richard P , Meyers Gregory , Beck Stephen BM
Published: August 2017

Leakage from water distribution systems is a worldwide issue with consequences including loss of revenue, health and environmental concerns. Leaks have typically been found through leak noise correlation by placing sensors either side of the leak and recording and analysing its vibro-acoustic emission. While this method is widely used to identify the location of the leak, the sensors also record data that could be related to the leak’s flow rate, yet no reliable method exists to predict leak flow rate in water distribution pipes using vibro-acoustic emission. The aim of this research is to predict leak flow rate in medium-density polyethylene pipe using vibro-acoustic emission signals. A novel experimental methodology is presented whereby circular holes of four sizes are tested at several leak flow rates. Following the derivation of a number of features, least squares support vector machines are used in order to predict leak flow rate. The results show a strong correlation highlighting the potential of this technique as a rapid and practical tool for water companies to assess and prioritise leak repair.
How Politicians’ Attitudes and Goals Moderate Political Agenda Setting by the Media
Authors: Zoizner Alon , Sheafer Tamir , Walgrave Stefaan
Published: August 2017

The media’s role in shaping the priorities of politicians, known as political agenda setting, is usually examined at the institutional level. However, individual politicians’ goals and attitudes are also expected to shape their level of responsiveness to the media. This study is the first to explore how individual politicians’ goals and motivations moderate their real-life level of responsiveness to the media. We examine this by using a unique sample of 197 incumbent politicians in three countries (Belgium, Canada, and Israel) and an automated content analysis of parliamentary speeches ( N = 45,574) and news articles ( N = 412,112). We find that politicians who view themselves as a conduit of the public (delegates) are more responsive to the media than those acting on their own judgment (trustees). Politicians involved in many issues (generalists) are also more responsive than specialists. Finally, no association is found between politicians’ negativity bias and their media responsiveness.
The Engaging Effect of Exemplars: How an Emotional Reaction to (Dis)Similar People in the News Media Affects Political Participation
Authors: Andersen Kim , Skovsgaard Morten , Albæk Erik , de Vreese Claes H.
Published: August 2017

Journalists use ordinary people as exemplars in their news stories to make their reports more interesting and understandable for the audience. This journalistic practice has often been discussed as a potential democratic problem because of its effects on perceptions of and attitudes toward political issues. Taking exemplification theory as our starting point and drawing on research from decision-making and social psychology literature, we add to this discussion by examining how exemplars in news reports affect intentions to participate in political activities. Using an experimental design, we randomly exposed respondents to a news report with or without exemplars or no news report at all. We found that for respondents who were similar to the exemplars, exposure to a news report with exemplars triggered an empathic concern and increased political participation intentions. For dissimilar respondents, exposure to a news report with exemplars decreased empathic concern, which in turn decreased political participation intentions. By highlighting these differential effects of exemplars in the news media on political participation, the study shows how a common journalistic practice potentially engages some citizens in democracy and disengages others.
Zimbabwe Institute of Development Studies (ZIDS): The Early Context of Sam Moyo’s Intellectual Development
Authors: Raftopoulos Brian
Published: August 2017

One of the key sites of Sam Moyo’s early intellectual development was the Zimbabwe Institute of Development Studies (ZIDS). Established by the newly independent Zimbabwean government in the early 1980s to provide an alternative intellectual space for considering socialist policy alternatives, the Institute was subject both to the opportunities and to challenges of state politics. In his work at ZIDS, Sam drew on a long history of radical political economy studies on Zimbabwe, as well radical Africanist thought to pursue his seminal work in agrarian studies. In the midst of a highly contested fast-track land reform programme, Sam led the way in understanding not only the economic challenges of the programme but also the opportunities that it opened up to move beyond the unequal legacies of the settler-colonial agrarian political economy. However, while Sam pioneered the study of the changing forms of agrarian production relations in the 2000s, he focused less on the changing forms of political rule in the country. Into this space, a rich literature from different disciplinary frameworks has emerged and expanded the debate on agrarian and political change in Zimbabwe.
Parliamentary Election in Jordan, 2016
Authors: Singh Manjari
Published: August 2017

The 18th Jordanian parliamentary election held on 20 September 2016 was unique in two respects: one, the Islamic Action Front (IAF) participated in it after boycotting two previous elections (2010 and 2013); and two, demand for economic and political reforms emerged as the most important issue cutting across ideological and political divides. The election was also a reflection of Jordan’s social and political complexities and its extraordinary demography and identity-based politics. The electoral process was largely recognized as free and fair, a significant accomplishment in a region where elections are nothing more than a legitimizing exercise for the regimes. Intense pre-election debates, enthusiastic participation of women and minorities, and transparency came against the backdrop of low voter turnout of 36 percent thereby underlining the challenges facing democratization in Jordan.
Frontline Science: Macrophage-derived exosomes promote neutrophil necroptosis following hemorrhagic shock
Authors: Jiao Yang , Li Zhigang , Loughran Patricia A , Fan Erica K , Scott Melanie J , Li Yuehua , Billiar Timothy R , Wilson Mark A , Shi Xueyin , Fan Jie
Published: August 2017

Hemorrhagic shock (HS) renders patients susceptible to development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) through mechanisms that are, as yet, unclear. Cell necroptosis, a form of regulated inflammatory cell death, is one of the mechanisms that controls cell release of inflammatory mediators from innate immune cells, such as polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs), and critically regulates the progress of inflammation. In this study, we investigated the mechanisms of alveolar macrophage (AMϕ) effects on PMN necroptosis following HS. With the use of in vivo and ex vivo HS models, we reveal a novel function of shock-activated AMϕ in promoting PMN necroptosis. We demonstrate that exosomes released from HS-activated AMϕ induce mainly NADPH oxidase-derived reactive oxygen species (ROS) production inside PMNs and subsequent promotion of necroptosis. These findings explore a previously unidentified pathway of AMϕ–PMN cross-talk, which causes enhanced PMN necroptosis and subsequent exaggerated post-HS lung inflammation. The targeting of this PMN death pathway may serve as a new therapeutic strategy for treatment of post-HS SIRS.
Sequence stratigraphy of the lower Pierre Shale of the southern Powder River Basin: A ramp margin sequence that terminates Niobrara Formation carbonate deposition
Authors: Kaykun Armagan
Published: August 2017

The Upper Cretaceous section of the southern Powder River Basin of the Rocky Mountain region includes the Niobrara Formation, which is one of the most significant source rocks of the Western Interior Cretaceous Seaway, and it is overlain by the lower Pierre Shale interval. The lower Pierre Shale is divided into eight members, which are the progradational highstand deposits of the Gammon Ferruginous Member; lowstand prograding wedge deposits of the Shannon Sandstone, the Unnamed Member, and the Sussex Sandstone; transgressional Ardmore Pedro Bentonite Beds and Sharon Springs members; and highstand deposits of the Mitten Black Shale and Red Bird Silty members. The Shannon and Sussex Sandstone members are known targets for oil production. Based on integrated research of 1490 well logs with two cores, this study demonstrates that the lower Pierre Shale interval is a Type 1 Ramp Margin Sequence. Although previous studies primarily focused on individual sandstone members or parts of the lower Pierre Shale section in relatively limited areas, this study provides an in-depth sequence stratigraphic analysis of the lower Pierre Shale interval. A depositional model was created, which demonstrates that the Shannon Sandstone, Unnamed, and Sussex Sandstone Members were deposited as an encased lowstand prograding wedge between the progradational Gammon Ferruginous Member and the transgressional Ardmore Pedro Bentonite Beds and Sharon Springs members hundreds of miles basinward from the stratigraphically equal Mesaverde lowstand sandstones of the Bighorn Basin. The shift of facies across long distances is explained with a forced regression that has taken place during the deposition of the uppermost Gammon Ferruginous Member and the following deposition of the Shannon and Sussex sandstone members. Rapid eastward progradation of the clastic sediments of the lower Pierre Shale and the following rapid forced regression effectively terminate the deposition of the Niobrara Formation carbonates in the Western Interior Seaway.
Chronic Pain and Associated Factors in India and Nepal: A Pilot Study of the Vanderbilt Global Pain Survey
Authors: Walters Jenna L. , Baxter Kelly , Chapman Hannah , Jackson Tracy , Sethuramachandran Adinarayanan , Couldridge Marcus , Joshi Hem Raj , Kundra Pankaj , Liu Xulei , Nair Divya , Sullivan Bonnie , Shotwell Matthew S. , Jense Ryan J. , Kassebaum Nicholas J. , McQueen K. A. Kelly
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND:

Evaluation and treatment of chronic pain worldwide are limited by the lack of standardized assessment tools incorporating consistent definitions of pain chronicity and specific queries of known social and psychological risk factors for chronic pain. The Vanderbilt Global Pain Survey (VGPS) was developed as a tool to address these concerns, specifically in the low- and middle-income countries where global burden is highest.

METHODS:

The VGPS was developed using standardized and cross-culturally validated metrics, including the Brief Pain Inventory and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Scale, as well as the Pain Catastrophizing Scale, the Fibromyalgia Survey Questionnaire along with queries about pain attitudes to assess the prevalence of chronic pain and disability along with its psychosocial and emotional associations. The VGPS was piloted in both Nepal and India over a 1-month period in 2014, allowing for evaluation of this tool in 2 distinctly diverse cultures.

RESULTS:

Prevalence of chronic pain in Nepal and India was consistent with published data. The Nepali cohort displayed a pain point prevalence of 48%–50% along with some form of disability present in approximately one third of the past 30 days. Additionally, 11% of Nepalis recorded pain in 2 somatic sites and 39% of those surveyed documented a history of a traumatic event. In the Indian cohort, pain point prevalence was approximately 24% to 41% based on the question phrasing, and any form of disability was present in 6 of the last 30 days. Of the Indians surveyed, 11% reported pain in 2 somatic sites, with only 4% reporting a previous traumatic event. Overall, Nepal had significantly higher chronic pain prevalence, symptom severity, widespread pain, and self-reported previous traumatic events, yet lower reported pain severity.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings confirm prevalent chronic pain, while revealing pertinent cultural differences and survey limitations that will inform future assessment strategies. Specific areas for improvement identified in this VGPS pilot study included survey translation methodology, redundancy of embedded metrics and cultural limitations in representative sampling and in detecting the prevalence of mental health illness, catastrophizing behavior, and previous traumatic events. International expert consensus is needed.
The Opiorphin Analog STR-324 Decreases Sensory Hypersensitivity in a Rat Model of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Van Elstraete Alain , Sitbon Philippe , Hamdi Leila , Juarez-Perez Victor , Mazoit Jean-Xavier , Benhamou Dan , Rougeot Catherine
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND:

Neuropathic pain represents a therapeutic challenge, and treatments with increased efficacy and tolerability still need to be developed. Opiorphin protects endogenous enkephalins from degradation, potentiating enkephalin-dependent analgesia via the activation of opioid pathways. Enkephalins are natural ligands of opioid receptors, with strong affinity for δ-opioid receptors. Expression of functional δ-opioid receptors increases in sensory neurons after peripheral nerve injury in neuropathic pain models. In a postoperative pain model, opiorphin and its stable analog STR-324 have an analgesic potency comparable to that of morphine, but without adverse opioid-related side effects. Consequently, administration of endogenous opiorphin peptides or STR-324 might be effective in managing peripheral neuropathic pain.

METHODS:

In this study, STR-324 was administered intravenously over the course of 7 days to rats with mononeuropathy induced by L5–L6 spinal nerve root ligation. The rats exhibited mechanical allodynia, thermal hyperalgesia, and spontaneous pain-related behavior throughout the testing period.

RESULTS:

Here, we report that the continuous administration of STR-324 significantly reduced mechanical allodynia and spontaneous pain-related behavior from day 2 to day 7 in animals that received 10 or 50 µg/h of STR-324 as compared to placebo-treated animals (P < .00001 and P < .0011, respectively, for mechanical allodynia; P = .028 and P = .0049, respectively, for spontaneous pain-related behavior). In addition, STR-324 reduced the pain-evoked expression of spinal c-Fos in this model, demonstrating that it acts at least in part through inhibition of endogenous nociceptive pathways.

CONCLUSIONS:

These observations suggested that STR-324 may be an effective addition to the multimodal approach for treating clinical neuropathic pain.
Statewide Payment and Delivery Reform: Do States Have What It Takes?
Authors: Feder Judy , Weil Alan R. , Berenson Robert , Dolan Rachel , Lallemand Nicole , Hayes Emily
Published: August 2017

States' role in payment as well as coverage will be subject to debate as the administration and the Congress decide how to address the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and otherwise reshape the nation's health policies. Acting as stewards of health care for the entire state population and stimulated by concern about rising costs and federal support under the ACA, the elected and administrative leaders of some states have been using their political influence and authority to improve their state's overall systems of care regardless of who pays the bill. In early 2015 we conducted on-site interviews with key stakeholders in five states to explore their strategies for payment and delivery reform. We found that despite these states' similar goals, differences in their statutory authority and purchasing power, along with their leaders' willingness to use them, significantly influence a state's ability to achieve reform objectives. We caution federal and state policy makers to recognize the reality that state leaders' political desire to exercise stewardship may not be enough to achieve it.
Celebrating our cultural cuisine
Authors: Neville Sarah
Published: August 2017

Those who work in the foundation stage sector have a duty to teach core British values and what better way to do so than through activities focusing on British Food Fortnight?
Thor's endangered lightning bug
Authors: Francis-Pester Dawn
Published: August 2017

In some ways they are larger than life, but stag beetles also have an air of mystery. Here, you can learn about their habitat and habits, so that you can also tell stories about them.
Q is for Questions and Answers…
Authors: Hammond Paula , Lillie Stephen
Published: August 2017

This month, we continue our series that takes the form of an extended alphabetical adventure around the body, helping children to get to know themselves a little better.
The possibilities held in common
Authors: Garner Lynne
Published: August 2017

When we look to resources we tend to think of items that we do not already have, something a bit unusual, but materials like paper offer many learning opportunities.
Helping older people adapt to life with a newly formed stoma
Authors: Burch Jennie
Published: August 2017

Caring for an older person with a newly formed stoma can be a challenge. It can affect their self-image and willingness to integrate. In this article, Jennie Burch offers advice for helping residents adapt to the physical and emotional changes that having a stoma may bring
Give those in your care the best ending to a life well lived
Authors: Austin Sue
Published: August 2017

End-of-life care may be difficult for some to talk about, but it is essential that we do so in order to offer the highest quality end-of-life care possible. In this article, Sue Austin describes how we can improve palliative care provision for older people in the UK
Intra-articular fractures of the distal tibia
Authors: Sitnik Alexandre , Beletsky Aleksander , Schelkun Steven
Published: August 2017

Results of the treatment of intra-articular fractures of the distal tibia have improved significantly during the last two decades. Recognition of the role of soft tissues has led to the development of a staged treatment strategy. At the first stage, joint-bridging external fixation and fibular fixation are performed. This leads to partial reduction of the distal tibial fracture and allows time for the healing of soft tissues and detailed surgical planning. Definitive open reduction and internal fixation of the tibial fracture is performed at a second stage, when the condition of the soft tissues is safe. The preferred surgical approach(es) is chosen based on the fracture morphology as determined from standard radiographic views and computed tomography. Meticulous atraumatic soft-tissue handling and the use of modern fixation techniques for the metaphyseal component such as minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis further facilitate healing.

Cite this article: EFORT Open Rev 2017;2:352-361. DOI: 10.1302/2058-5241.2.150047
Análise de discurso crítica e o anúncio publicitário em sala de aula
Authors: Silva Caroline Costa
Published: August 2017

Este estudo apresenta os resultados da aplicação/análise de uma proposta de leitura e escrita do gênero anúncio publicitário para alunos do Ensino Fundamental, 9°ano, com o objetivo de desenvolver leitores críticos e reflexivos. Na construção desse material, baseei-me na Análise de Discurso Crítica e na abordagem de ensino de gêneros da Escola de Sydney. A escolha dessas concepções deve-se ao fato de que se preocupam tanto com os aspectos linguísticos quanto com os aspectos sociais que norteiam a linguagem. Optei por utilizar o gênero anúncio publicitário, situado no contexto da Ditadura Militar Brasileira, a fim de resgatar a memória e a história do país. Quanto à metodologia, utilizei a etnografia crítica para a coleta de dados; e, para a análise, a Análise de Discurso Crítica. Os resultados demonstraram que os estudantes utilizaram com mais eficiência o sistema de escolhas disponíveis para a construção de seus discursos, bem como desenvolveram uma consciência crítica, conhecendo/reconhecendo seu passado, a sua identidade nacional. Ademais, a problematização das práticas discursivas permitiu uma discussão proveitosa em direção ao desvelamento de discursos ideológicos que mascaram relações de poder, possibilitando aos sujeitos/ alunos questionar, lutar, ou aceitar consciente-mente, as ideologias presentes nos mesmos discursos. Considero que as intervenções realizadas possibilitaram resgatar a memória, a história do país, e também, proporcionaram o desenvolvimento da formação da consciência linguística crítica do aluno.
Pontuação em foco: a eficácia do ensino da pontuação e leitura na escrita de alunos do nono ano do Ensino Fundamental
Authors: Oliveira Elisangela Santos de Andrade , Pacheco Vera
Published: August 2017

O propósito deste trabalho é investigar a existência de correlações entre variações melódicas e o emprego dos sinais de pontuação em textos escritos por alunos do 9º ano do Ensino Fundamental de uma escola municipal da cidade de Planalto, Bahia. Também busca apresentar a elaboração/implementação de uma proposta de intervenção didática centrada no desenvolvimento de atividades relacionadas aos usos da pontuação e sua inter-relação com aspectos prosódicos. Os resultados iniciais desta pesquisa e as orientações dos Parâmetros Curriculares Nacionais referentes à elaboração de modelos/sequências didáticas nortearam a elaboração da proposta didática “Pontuação em foco” aqui apresentada. Tal proposta, cujo objetivo é promover uma melhor compreensão dos usos e finalidades da pontuação em textos escritos e uma maior percepção dessas possíveis correlações entre variações melódicas e o emprego da pontuação, foi aplicada a dois grupos distintos de alunos do 9º ano do Ensino Fundamental – o grupo teste, submetido à intervenção didática; e o grupo controle, não submetido à intervenção. Os resultados indicam que esta proposta didática, de modo geral, reúne recursos e estratégias adequados aos propósitos que a alicerçam, configurando-se, portanto, como um material de relevante aplicabilidade para o ensino da pontuação.
O acusativo anafórico no Ensino Fundamental: uma proposta de intervenção pedagógica
Authors: Martins Marco Antonio , Xavier Alice Carla Marcelino
Published: August 2017

Assumindo os pressupostos da teoria da variação e mudança linguística e dos estudos sobre o ensino de gramática, apresentamos neste artigo resultados de uma pesquisa realizada no âmbito do Mestrado Profissional em Letras (PROFLETRAS). A pesquisa diz respeito aos diferentes usos do acusativo anafórico de terceira pessoa em textos narrativos escritos por alunos do 9º ano do Ensino Fundamental. Elabora-se uma proposta de ensino que considere o papel da escola na recuperação de formas não mais presentes na gramática do Português brasileiro – tais como os clíticos acusativos de terceira pessoa (“o”/“a”). Sistematiza-se aqui uma proposta de tratamento didático-pedagógica para um ensino de gramática que considere a língua em uso.
Existence for Willmore surfaces of revolution satisfying non-symmetric Dirichlet boundary conditions
Authors: Eichmann Sascha , Grunau Hans-Christoph
Published: August 2017

In this paper, existence for Willmore surfaces of revolution is shown, which satisfy non-symmetric Dirichlet boundary conditions,
if the infimum of the Willmore energy in the admissible class is strictly below {4\pi}. Under a more restrictive but still
explicit geometric smallness condition we obtain a quite interesting additional geometric information: The profile curve of this solution can be parameterised as a graph over the x-axis. By working below the energy threshold of {4\pi} and reformulating the problem in the Poincaré half plane, compactness of a minimising sequence is guaranteed, of which the limit is indeed smooth. The last step consists of two main ingredients: We analyse the Euler–Lagrange equation by an order reduction argument by Langer and Singer and modify, when necessary, our solution with the help of suitable parts of catenoids and circles.
Response time of indirectly accessed gas exchange depends on measurement method
Authors: Rafl Jakub , Kulhanek Filip , Kudrna Petr , Ort Vaclav , Roubik Karel
Published: August 2017

Noninvasive techniques are routinely used for assessment of tissue effects of lung ventilation. However, comprehensive studies of the response time of the methods are scarce. The aim of this study was to compare the response time of noninvasive methods for monitoring of gas exchange to sudden changes in the composition of the inspired gas. A prospective experimental study with 16 healthy volunteers was conducted. A ventilation circuit was designed that enabled a fast change in the composition of the inspiratory gas mixture while allowing spontaneous breathing. The volunteers inhaled a hypoxic mixture, then a hypercapnic mixture, a hyperoxic mixture and finally a 0.3% CO mixture. The parameters with the fastest response to the sudden change of O2 in inhaled gas were peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2) and regional tissue oxygenation (rSO2). Transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure (tcpO2) had almost the same time of reaction, but its time of relaxation was 2–3 times longer. End-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) response time to change of CO2 concentration in inhaled gas was less than half in comparison with transcutaneous carbon dioxide partial pressure (tcpCO2). All the examined parameters and devices reacted adequately to changes in gas concentration in the inspiratory gas mixture.
Selected Cr(VI) replacement options for aluminum alloys: a literature survey
Authors: Mitton D. Bryce , Carangelo Anna , Acquesta Annalisa , Monetta Tullio , Curioni Michele , Bellucci Francesco
Published: August 2017

There is a significant move away from the use of hexavalent chromium, Cr(VI), which is a mature, trusted, and relatively inexpensive treatment that has been used for many years by industry to reduce corrosion. Although Cr(VI) is effective at reducing corrosion, it poses a substantial health hazard. While there is a need to define a process that will be able to replace Cr(VI), the process must be able to provide the same level of corrosion protection currently provided by hexavalent treatments. In addition, it needs to do this without the associated environmental problems. This paper focuses mainly, but not exclusively, on the trivalent chromium pretreatment (TCP) and its commercially available variants. The TCP was developed by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and is used by the US military. The rationale for the focus of this paper is that in the near term, the aeronautics industry needs to move away from Cr(VI) towards a more benign commercially available chemical treatment that can help protect the aluminum alloys used by that industry. TCPs are currently available commercially and have undergone numerous tests by multiple organizations to establish their effectiveness in reducing corrosion of both bare and painted aluminum alloys.
Poly(AN-co-PEGMA)/hBN/NaClO4 composite electrolytes for sodium ion battery
Authors: Hamisu Abubakar , Çelik Sevim Ü.
Published: August 2017

Polymer electrolytes composed of an acrylonitrile and polyethylene glycol methacrylate copolymer poly(AN-co-PEGMA) with addition of NaClO4 are studied by impedance spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) particles are having increasing interest owing to mechanical properties, thermal stability, chemical stability and good lubrication property. In this study, hBN was used as an inorganic filler. FTIR spectroscopy was used to examine the interactions between the host polymer and both NaClO4 salt and nano hBN particles. The thermal properties of the composites were studied using TGA and DSC tests. TGA results showed that all the composites membranes were thermally stable till 300°C with one step degradation. Surface morphology of the films was examined with SEM which also reveals the homogeneous dispersion of nano hBN in the polymer matrix. Ionic conductivity was studied with impedance spectroscopy, the results showed that the ionic conductivity increases with increasing PEGMA ratio. ANcoPEGMA 11 20Na (EO:Na ratio=20) sample showed maximum ion conductivity of approximately 3.6×10−4 S cm−1 at 100°C. This is because ANcoPEGMA 11 20Na has highest percentage of PEGMA and highest number of Na+ ion per EO groups.
Entrepreneurial Orientation
Authors: Mishra Chandra S.
Published: August 2017

Our theory of competitive advantage, namely the theory of entrepreneurial rent, posits that the firm’s entrepreneurial orientation, their alertness, agility, absorptivity, and proactive adaptability, is a source of competitive advantage. The firm’s entrepreneurial orientation sustained by the entrepreneurial incentives continually updates and enriches the management logics that enhance the execution of the business model mechanism wherein lies the firm’s competitive advantage. The business model mechanism constituting the management logics, core resources, value opportunities, and value activities sustains the firm value creation and appropriation. Superior execution of the business model mechanism sustained by the firm’s entrepreneurial orientation provides a sustainable competitive advantage. The entrepreneurial incentives are at the heart of our theory of competitive advantage. The superior execution of the business model mechanism is sustained by the entrepreneurial incentives, in that the business model execution is enhanced by the management logics that are continually updated with the firm’s entrepreneurial orientation, and the firm’s entrepreneurial orientation is sustained by the entrepreneurial incentives.
From Freudenthal’s spectral theorem to projectable hulls of unital Archimedean lattice-groups, through compactifications of minimal spectra
Authors: Ball Richard N. , Marra Vincenzo , McNeill Daniel , Pedrini Andrea
Published: August 2017

We use a landmark result in the theory of Riesz spaces – Freudenthal’s 1936 spectral theorem – to canonically represent any Archimedean lattice-ordered group G with a strong unit as a (non-separating) lattice-group of real-valued continuous functions on an appropriate G-indexed zero-dimensional compactification

w
G

⁢

Z
G

{w_{G}Z_{G}}

of its space

Z
G

{Z_{G}}

of minimal prime ideals.
The two further ingredients needed to establish this representation are the Yosida representation of G on its space

X
G

{X_{G}}

of maximal ideals, and the well-known continuous surjection of

Z
G

{Z_{G}}

onto

X
G

{X_{G}}

.
We then establish our main result by showing that the inclusion-minimal extension of this representation of G that separates the points of

Z
G

{Z_{G}}

– namely, the sublattice subgroup of

C
⁡

(

Z
G

)

{\operatorname{C}(Z_{G})}

generated by the image of G along with all characteristic functions of clopen (closed and open) subsets of

Z
G

{Z_{G}}

which are determined by elements of G – is precisely the classical projectable hull of G.
Our main result thus reveals a fundamental relationship between projectable hulls and minimal spectra, and provides the most direct and explicit construction of projectable hulls to date. Our techniques do require the presence of a strong unit.
Consumer Over-Indebtedness, Credit Contracts and Responsible Lending
Authors: Cerini Diana Valentina
Published: August 2017

The paper considers the position of overindebted persons in the national and comparative perspective. A specific focus is dedicated to the interference between credit contracts and responsible lending, with reference to the role of professional creditors (banks and other financial institutions) in setting both the cost of credit and the conditions for repayment. In addition, the experience of the Arbitro Bancario Finanziario – the ADR system in force in Italy – is examined with reference to the topic.
Moisture Transport Mechanism and Drying Kinetic of Fresh Harvested Red Onion Bulbs under Dehumidified Air
Authors: Asiah Nurul , Djaeni Mohamad , Hii Ching Lik
Published: August 2017

Drying plays an important role in post-harvest handling of onion for prolonging storage time. This research focuses on the drying studies of red onion bulbs using dehumidified air. The works were carried out by observing the microscopic structure of red onion bulbs layer and followed by developing mass transfer model for moisture diffusion during drying. Moisture diffusivity was estimated from drying experiments conducted at various temperatures (40, 50 and 60 °C) using the unsteady state solutions of Fick’s second law model. The diffusivity values were used to predict the drying kinetics as well as effective drying time for different air relative humidity. Results showed that combination of low relative humidity and low drying temperature significantly improved drying rate and reduced drying time.
“I have struggled really hard to learn Sami”: Claiming and regaining a minority language
Authors: Jonsson Carla , Rosenfors Mona
Published: August 2017

This article sheds light on the issue of
Independent-Living Senior Communities in Disaster: Self-Efficacy and Trust in Responding Agencies
Authors: Bonnan-White Jess
Published: August 2017

Human security and vulnerability theoretical frameworks are utilized to examine willingness of seniors living in independent living centers (ILCs) in two counties of southern New Jersey (United States) to follow voluntary and mandatory evacuation orders from a number of sources. The sample, mostly White (73.3%) and female (81.8%) indicated the most willingness to follow both categories of orders when delivered by military, law enforcement, and/or fire officials. The least level of willingness was noted with orders delivered by neighbors, church leaders, and media (TV and radio) outlets. No significant difference was found based on county residency, level of preparedness, or previous evacuation experience. Those with previous disaster experience, however, indicated a significantly increased willingness to follow voluntary evacuation orders from military or National Guard, fire department, and the state governor. No significant association was found between willingness to evacuate and self-reported generalized self-efficacy. A human security framework is suggested to be beneficial for analysis given the potential for increased community frustration, anger, or anxiety based on physical, social, and economic vulnerabilities identified for senior communities.
Towards dynamic PET reconstruction under flow conditions: Parameter identification in a PDE model
Authors: Reips Louise , Burger Martin , Engbers Ralf
Published: August 2017

The aim of this paper is to discuss potential advances in PET kinetic models and direct reconstruction of kinetic parameters. As a prominent example we focus on a typical task in perfusion imaging and derive a system of transport-reaction-diffusion equations, which is able to include macroscopic flow properties in addition to the usual exchange between arteries, veins, and tissues.
For this system we propose an inverse problem of estimating all relevant parameters from PET data. We interpret the parameter identification as a nonlinear inverse problem, for which we formulate and analyze variational regularization approaches.
For the numerical solution we employ gradient-based methods and appropriate splitting methods, which are used to investigate some test cases.
Laser Diode to Single-Mode Circular Core Parabolic Index Fiber Coupling via Upside-Down Tapered Hyperbolic Microlens on the Tip of the Fiber: Prediction of Coupling Optics by ABCD Matrix Formalism
Authors: Majumdar Angshuman , Mandal Chintan Kumar , Gangopadhyay Sankar
Published: August 2017

We employ ABCD matrix formalism in order to investigate the coupling optics involving laser diode to single-mode circular core parabolic index fiber excitation via upside-down tapered hyperbolic microlens on the fiber tip. Analytic expressions for coupling efficiencies both in absence and in presence of transverse and angular mismatches are formulated. The concerned investigations are made for two practical wavelengths namely 1.3 µm and 1.5 µm. The execution of the prescribed formulations involves little computation. It has been found that the wavelength 1.5 µm is more efficient in respect of coupling. It is also seen that the present coupling device at both the wavelengths shows more tolerance with respect to angular mismatch. As regards tolerance with respect to transverse mismatch, the result is poor at both the wavelengths used. Consequently, it is desirable that designers should not to exceed transverse mismatch beyond 1 μm.
Construction and Analysis of a Novel SAC-OCDMA System with EDW Coding using Direct Detection Technique
Authors: Sarangal Himali , Singh Amarpal , Malhotra Jyoteesh
Published: August 2017

Spectral amplitude coding optical code division multiple access (SAC-OCDMA) is a promising innovation for burst and asynchronous environment. This paper endeavors to analyze the efficacy of the proposed optimum SAC-OCDMA system by utilizing enhanced double-weight (EDW) code for six users operating at a bit rate of 60 Gb/s (10×6 Gb/s). Also, an algorithm is designed for EDW code with mapping technique for any weight that can be greater than two. The EDW code is analyzed for bit error rate (BER) and Q-factor using direct detection technique. Further, the system is compared with three dispersion compensating techniques (pre, post and symmetrical). The results indicate that by using symmetrical compensation the maximum usable distance increases to more than twice as compared to without compensation for the targeted BER (10−9), whereas by using p- and post-compensation the BER value increases to 10−13 as compared to without compensation whose BER value is 10−5. The comparison results show acceptable performance improvement.
Bit Error Rate Performance Analysis of Hybrid Subcarrier Intensity Modulation-Based FSO with Spatial Diversity in Various Weather Conditions
Authors: Kumar Giri Rajat , Patnaik Bijayananda
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we study the performance improvement of free space optical (FSO) communication system with spatial diversity techniques employing hybrid pulse position modulation-binary phase shift keying-subcarrier intensity modulation (PPM-BPSK-SIM). The involvement of multiple photo-detectors in diversity based FSO systems offers an effective way to overcome scntillation. In this paper, we have simulated the bit error rate (BER) with respect to different parameters like average SNR, link distance at various weather conditions. The simulation results are verified in Matlab environment with the mathematical analysis. The simulation results show that higher order single input multiple output (SIMO) system achieves better BER performance and hybrid PPM-BPSK-SIM has significant improved performance than the common modulation schemes like PPM, BPSK-SIM.
Analysis of Atmospheric Turbulence on Free Space Optical System using Homotopy Perturbation Method
Authors: Rani Monika , Bhatti Harbax Singh , Singh Vikramjeet
Published: August 2017

Free Space Optics (FSO) is a wireless optical communication technology which depends on propagation of optical beam through air. FSO communication system provides secure communication link, cost-effective solution and license-free operation. In this paper, the FSO communication link has been analysed in turbulent atmosphere using homotopy perturbation method (HPM). We have designed a FSO system operating at an optical wavelength of 850 nm with a signal power of 4 dBm having a link range of 2 km between transmitter and receiver unit. It has been observed that in atmospheric turbulence high performance FSO link is achieved by increasing the aperture diameter of receiver telescope.
Managing Pricing of Closed-Loop Supply Chain Under Patent Protection
Authors: Cao Xiaogang , Hua Leqi , Wen Hui , Wu Yan
Published: August 2017

This paper studies the closed-loop supply chain decision problem in which the original manufacturer allows the third-party remanufacturer to remanufacture under patent protection. In the two cycle mode, the authors discuss the pricing decision problem of the original manufacturer, the retailer, and the third-party remanufacturer in centralized and decentralized decision-making cases. The authors obtain the optimal sale price and wholesale price of new products and remanufactured products in two cases, and the optimal recycling rate of used products in centralized decision-making case. Finally, the authors carry out the corresponding numerical simulation of the pricing decision.
Some applications of the Archimedean copulas in the proof of the almost sure central limit theorem for ordinary maxima
Authors: Dudziński Marcin , Furmańczyk Konrad
Published: August 2017

Our goal is to state and prove the almost sure central limit theorem for maxima (Mn) of X1, X2, ..., Xn, n ∈ ℕ, where (Xi) forms a stochastic process of identically distributed r.v.’s of the continuous type, such that, for any fixed n, the family of r.v.’s (X1, ...,Xn) has the Archimedean copula CΨ.
Agency and Co-production: A Multimodal Perspective
Authors: Pirini Jesse
Published: August 2017

Building on multimodal (inter)action analysis as a theoretical and methodological framework, this article introduces and develops the theoretical/methodological tool called primary agency. Taking the mediated action as a unit of analysis, agency can be analysed as a feature of action. However, there is a lack of empirical approaches for the study of agency, and an overemphasis on language as the most important site for identifying agentive action. I develop primary agency through an analysis of three co-produced higher-level actions from a research project into high school tutoring. These are the higher-level actions of conducting research, tutoring and reading a text. Applying co-production and the modal density foreground/background continuum I explore how the researcher, the tutor and the student co-produce these higher-level actions. Through this analysis, I identify the most significant mediational means for each higher-level action, and the social actor with ownership or agency over these mediational means. I define this social actor as the one with primary agency over the co-produced higher-level action. Finally, my analysis outlines the implications of primary agency for co-produced higher-level actions, including the role of the researcher, the attention/awareness participants pay to overarching research projects, and links between primary agency and successful learning.
Magnetically recoverable nano-catalysts in sulfoxidation reactions
Authors: Kazemi Mosstafa , Ghobadi Massoud
Published: August 2017

The sulfoxidation of sulfides have received special attention in organic synthesis especially in medical chemistry because compounds containing S=O bonds (sulfoxides) are privileged structural scaffolds for building pharmacologically and biologically active molecules. Magnetic separation is an efficient strategy for the rapid separation of catalysts from reaction medium and an alternative to time-, solvent-, and energy-consuming separation techniques. In recent times, many protocols based on using magnetically recoverable nano-catalysts have been reported for the oxidation of sulfides to the sulfoxides. This review is focused on metal complexes, acid, and bromine reagents supported on magnetic nanoparticles and their applications as magnetically recoverable nano-catalysts in the sulfoxidation reactions.
Statistical inferences with jointly type-II censored samples from two Pareto distributions
Authors: Abu-Zinadah Hanaa H.
Published: August 2017

In the several fields of industries the product comes from more than one production line, which is required to work the comparative life tests. This problem requires sampling of the different production lines, then the joint censoring scheme is appeared. In this article we consider the life time Pareto distribution with jointly type-II censoring scheme. The maximum likelihood estimators (MLE) and the corresponding approximate confidence intervals as well as the bootstrap confidence intervals of the model parameters are obtained. Also Bayesian point and credible intervals of the model parameters are presented. The life time data set is analyzed for illustrative purposes. Monte Carlo results from simulation studies are presented to assess the performance of our proposed method.
Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia after cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy
Authors: Finlay Ben , Price Timothy , Hewett Peter
Published: August 2017

Background

Neutropenia and thrombocytopenia are well-recognised complications of systemic chemotherapy. In cytoreductive surgery and heated intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), the interplay between surgical factors and systemic toxicity of chemotherapeutics must be considered when considering post-operative haematological outcomes. We sought to quantify the incidence of these events in cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC at our institution.

Methods

We conducted a single centre, a retrospective cohort study of 50 consecutive patients who underwent cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC from 2002 to 2015. Routine haematological data were analysed and complications classified according to CTCAE 4.0. Subgroup analysis was undertaken to compare those who received or not perioperative systemic chemotherapy.

Results

The rate of all-grade post-procedure neutropenia was 4 % (n=2/50); one grade 1, and one grade 4 neutropenia. The patient with grade 4 neutropenia died day 57 post-operatively, despite subsequent growth factor support. Eight percent (n=4/50) of patients had thrombocytopenia preoperatively. The overall rate of post-procedure thrombocytopenia was 46 % with grade 3–4 thrombocytopenia of 4 %. If not present preoperatively, thrombocytopenia onset was on day 1 or 2 post-operatively, with a median duration of 3 days.

Conclusions

Intraperitoneal delivery of chemotherapy as HIPEC can cause haematological toxicity with potentially fatal outcomes. However, the incidence of neutropenia and thrombocytopenia after CRS and HIPEC is low.
Occupational safety of pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC)
Authors: Willaert Wouter , Sessink Paul , Ceelen Wim
Published: August 2017

Background

Pressurized intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) has emerged as a novel method to treat extensive, small volume peritoneal metastases. The clinical use of chemotherapy containing aerosols represents a potential occupational health hazard. We report the results of toxicological analysis during the first two clinical PIPAC procedures performed at Ghent University Hospital.

Methods

After extensive preparation and in vitro testing, two patients were treated with PIPAC: the first using doxorubicin (2.86 mg in 51.43 mL) and cisplatin (14.28 mg in 164.3 mL), the second using oxaliplatin (182.10 mg in 186.42 mL). A standardized safety checklist was developed and used. Aerosol delivery was combined with electrostatic precipitation (ePIPAC). The following samples were obtained at several time points and locations: environmental air, floor surface wipes, surgeon’s gloves, surgeon’s hand wipes, circuit filters, and fluid from the water seal collection chamber container placed along the closed aerosol waste evacuating line. Platinum concentration was measured in these samples using voltammetry. Sample collection and analysis were performed by an independent external laboratory.

Results

Platinum was not detected on the four floor locations after both procedures (detection limit 0.02 ng/cm2). Similarly, no platinum was detected in environmental air during both PIPACs at the surgeon’s or anesthesiologist’s position (detection limit 4.0–27 ng/m3). No platinum contamination was detected on the hands, outer pair of gloves, or inner pair of gloves of the surgeon (detection limit 70 and 50 ng respectively). Platinum was not detected on the filters and in the air-seal container liquid.

Conclusions

With adequate preparation and precautions, a clinical PIPAC program can be established without measurable chemotherapy exposure to the operating room environment or healthcare workers.