bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secure Communications in CIoT Networks with a Wireless Energy Harvesting Untrusted Relay
Authors: Hu Hequn , Gao Zhenzhen , Liao Xuewen , Leung Victor
Published: September 2017

The Internet of Things (IoT) represents a bright prospect that a variety of common appliances can connect to one another, as well as with the rest of the Internet, to vastly improve our lives. Unique communication and security challenges have been brought out by the limited hardware, low-complexity, and severe energy constraints of IoT devices. In addition, a severe spectrum scarcity problem has also been stimulated by the use of a large number of IoT devices. In this paper, cognitive IoT (CIoT) is considered where an IoT network works as the secondary system using underlay spectrum sharing. A wireless energy harvesting (EH) node is used as a relay to improve the coverage of an IoT device. However, the relay could be a potential eavesdropper to intercept the IoT device’s messages. This paper considers the problem of secure communication between the IoT device (e.g., sensor) and a destination (e.g., controller) via the wireless EH untrusted relay. Since the destination can be equipped with adequate energy supply, secure schemes based on destination-aided jamming are proposed based on power splitting (PS) and time splitting (TS) policies, called intuitive secure schemes based on PS (Int-PS), precoded secure scheme based on PS (Pre-PS), intuitive secure scheme based on TS (Int-TS) and precoded secure scheme based on TS (Pre-TS), respectively. The secure performances of the proposed schemes are evaluated through the metric of probability of successfully secure transmission ( P S S T ), which represents the probability that the interference constraint of the primary user is satisfied and the secrecy rate is positive. P S S T is analyzed for the proposed secure schemes, and the closed form expressions of P S S T for Pre-PS and Pre-TS are derived and validated through simulation results. Numerical results show that the precoded secure schemes have better P S S T than the intuitive secure schemes under similar power consumption. When the secure schemes based on PS and TS polices have similar P S S T , the average transmit power consumption of the secure scheme based on TS is lower. The influences of power splitting and time slitting ratios are also discussed through simulations.
An Energy-Efficient and Robust Multipath Routing Protocol for Cognitive Radio Ad Hoc Networks
Authors: Singh Kishor , Moh Sangman
Published: September 2017

Routing in cognitive radio ad hoc networks (CRAHNs) is a daunting task owing to dynamic topology, intermittent connectivity, spectrum heterogeneity, and energy constraints. Other prominent aspects such as channel stability, path reliability, and route discovery frequency should also be exploited. Several routing protocols have been proposed for CRAHNs in the literature. By stressing on one of the aspects more than any other, however, they do not satisfy all requirements of throughput, energy efficiency, and robustness. In this paper, we propose an energy-efficient and robust multipath routing (ERMR) protocol for CRAHNs by considering all prominent aspects including residual energy and channel stability in design. Even when the current routing path fails, the alternative routing path is immediately utilized. In establishing primary and alternative routing paths, both residual energy and channel stability are exploited simultaneously. Our simulation study shows that the proposed ERMR outperforms the conventional protocol in terms of network throughput, packet delivery ratio, energy consumption, and end-to-end delay.
Generational Differences in the Perception of Corporate Culture in European Transport Enterprises
Authors: Kampf Rudolf , Lorincová Silvia , Hitka Miloš , Stopka Ondrej
Published: September 2017

The workforce of an enterprise consists of employees of various ages with different personality types. Members of each generation differ not only in their behaviour, but also in their attitudes and opinions. A manager should identify generational differences. Subsequently, the management style, leadership and employee motivation should be adapted forasmuch as well-motivated employees are able to affect the efficiency of enterprise processes in right way. The objective of the paper is to identify differences in perception of the preferred level of corporate culture in terms of various generations. Preferred level of corporate culture in six areas is evaluated using a questionnaire consisting of 24 questions. Sixty-four European transport enterprises are engaged in the survey. Following the outcomes, we find that all generations of respondents working in the European transport enterprises prefer clan corporate culture in the course of five years. This culture puts emphasis on employees, customers and traditions. Loyalty and teamwork are considered to be the essential tools for business success. Following the statistical verification using the ANOVA test, we can state that the hypothesis regarding the existence of generational differences in the perception of corporate culture was not confirmed.
Eco-Efficiency Assessment of Material Use: The Case of Phosphorus Fertilizer Usage in Japan’s Rice Sector
Authors: Lwin Cherry Myo , Nogi Akane , Hashimoto Seiji
Published: September 2017

To raise the eco-efficiency of the economy, it is important to not only investigate the eco-efficiency of specific products but also to ascertain whether the resources are used effectively throughout the life cycle. In this paper, we address eco-efficiency of agricultural use of phosphorus in Japan in the years 2005, 2010, and 2011. The increase in revenue from crops due to the use of phosphorus-based fertilizer is considered. The method used allows us to isolate the impact of a single nutrient and to convert this to a monetary value. For impact assessment of P resource use, we combine life-cycle inventory (LCI) data with LIME 2 (Life-cycle Impact Assessment Method based on Endpoint modeling) method. The most significant environment impact of the phosphorus chemical fertilizer life cycle is found to be on climate change by high chemical fertilizer. In 2005, provided service of phosphorus resource use was estimated as the highest while value added service of phosphorus increased, resulting in an uptick in eco-efficiency. During the study period, the lowest eco-efficiency of P resource use resulted in 2011. The results from this study, and the methods used, should be of great interest to industry, the research community, and policy makers concerned with resource efficiency.
Diverse Effects of Consumer Credit on Household Carbon Emissions at Quantiles: Evidence from Urban China
Authors: Xu Xinkuo , Han Liyan
Published: September 2017

This paper surveys the diverse effects of consumer credit on household carbon emissions (HCEs) based on consumption patterns revealed by urban Chinese survey data. Based on the foundation of existing literature, consumption patterns and influential factors are carefully chosen to build empirical models that apply Heteroscedasticity-consistent covariance matrix estimation and quantile regression. The study finds that short-term consumer credit and credit card limits (representing daily consumption) have effects on HCEs at all quantiles, but mortgages (representing long-term consumer credit) only have effects at high quantiles. Consumption categories have distinct effects on HCEs at different quantiles. The effects of mortgages on HCEs occur mainly through the consumption of housing and facilities as well as through the consumption of medical care and transportation, while the effects of short-term consumer credit and credit card limits on HCEs occur through almost all consumption categories. These findings contribute to knowledge of the determinants of HCEs and provide a theoretical basis for consumer financial mechanisms to cut HCEs.
Managing the ‘Monitoring Imperative’ in the Context of SDG Target 6.3 on Water Quality and Wastewater
Authors: Hering Janet
Published: September 2017

Monitoring the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6 for water and sanitation builds on monitoring frameworks that were developed for the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), specifically the WHO/UNICEF Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP). Yet, since SDG 6 goes beyond the MDG focus on drinking water and sanitation, it also significantly expands monitoring and reporting responsibilities. The target to improve water quality (Target 6.3) calls for water quality monitoring and data reporting that are likely to pose a significant challenge to countries that lack an established monitoring program. At the same time, redundant burdens may be imposed on countries that already have established programs and report out water quality data to inter- or supranational agencies. In this context, there is a risk that the intention that water quality data should serve as a basis for evidence-based decision making will become subsidiary to the resource-intensive activities of data collection and management. Alternatively, policies could be designed based on historical experience with measures of proven effectiveness, prioritizing policies that could have multiple benefits. Policies could be implemented in parallel with the development of monitoring programs and conventional monitoring data could be complemented by information gained from sources such as remote sensing and unstructured data.
NS-k-NN: Neutrosophic Set-Based k-Nearest Neighbors Classifier
Authors: Akbulut Yaman , Sengur Abdulkadir , Guo Yanhui , Smarandache Florentin
Published: September 2017

k-nearest neighbors (k-NN), which is known to be a simple and efficient approach, is a non-parametric supervised classifier. It aims to determine the class label of an unknown sample by its k-nearest neighbors that are stored in a training set. The k-nearest neighbors are determined based on some distance functions. Although k-NN produces successful results, there have been some extensions for improving its precision. The neutrosophic set (NS) defines three memberships namely T, I and F. T, I, and F shows the truth membership degree, the false membership degree, and the indeterminacy membership degree, respectively. In this paper, the NS memberships are adopted to improve the classification performance of the k-NN classifier. A new straightforward k-NN approach is proposed based on NS theory. It calculates the NS memberships based on a supervised neutrosophic c-means (NCM) algorithm. A final belonging membership U is calculated from the NS triples as U = T + I − F . A similar final voting scheme as given in fuzzy k-NN is considered for class label determination. Extensive experiments are conducted to evaluate the proposed method’s performance. To this end, several toy and real-world datasets are used. We further compare the proposed method with k-NN, fuzzy k-NN, and two weighted k-NN schemes. The results are encouraging and the improvement is obvious.
Vaccines against Botulism
Authors: Sundeen Grace , Barbieri Joseph
Published: September 2017

Botulinum neurotoxins (BoNT) cause the flaccid paralysis of botulism by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine from motor neurons. There are seven serotypes of BoNT (A-G), with limited therapies, and no FDA approved vaccine for botulism. An investigational formalin-inactivated penta-serotype-BoNT/A-E toxoid vaccine was used to vaccinate people who are at high risk of contracting botulism. However, this formalin-inactivated penta-serotype-BoNT/A-E toxoid vaccine was losing potency and was discontinued. This article reviews the different vaccines being developed to replace the discontinued toxoid vaccine. These vaccines include DNA-based, viral vector-based, and recombinant protein-based vaccines. DNA-based vaccines include plasmids or viral vectors containing the gene encoding one of the BoNT heavy chain receptor binding domains (HC). Viral vectors reviewed are adenovirus, influenza virus, rabies virus, Semliki Forest virus, and Venezuelan Equine Encephalitis virus. Among the potential recombinant protein vaccines reviewed are HC, light chain-heavy chain translocation domain, and chemically or genetically inactivated holotoxin.
Spread of Tst–Positive Staphylococcus aureus Strains Belonging to ST30 Clone among Patients and Healthcare Workers in Two Intensive Care Units
Authors: Papadimitriou-Olivgeris Matthaios , Drougka Eleanna , Fligou Fotini , Dodou Vasiliki , Kolonitsiou Fevronia , Filos Kriton , Anastassiou Evangelos , Petinaki Efthimia , Marangos Markos , Spiliopoulou Iris
Published: September 2017

Staphylococcus aureus is a major cause of infections. Toxic shock syndrome toxin (TSST-1) and Panton–Valentine leukocidin (PVL) are associated with severe clinical syndromes. S. aureus colonizing isolates recovered from healthcare workers and patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a university hospital comprising Group A were compared with those from adult non-ICU carriers (Group B). mecA, lukS/lukF-PV (Panton–Valentine leukocidin, PVL), and tst (toxic shock syndrome toxin) gene carriage was detected by PCR. Clones were identified in all methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and toxin-positive methicillin-susceptible strains (MSSA) by pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), agr groups, and multi locus sequencing typing (MLST). Group A included 90 S. aureus isolates, whereas Group B 53. PVL was more frequently found among MRSA vs. MSSA (p < 0.001) and in strains of Group B as compared to Group A (p < 0.001), consistent with the spread of ST80-IV. Higher incidence of tst gene carriage was identified among MSSA vs. MRSA (P 0.005) belonging mainly to ST30, and Group A vs. Group B (P 0.002). The wide dissemination of ST80-IV mainly in the community is responsible for a high percentage of PVL-positive MRSA, while silent spread of tst-positive S. aureus clones among ICU patients and personnel poses a threat of hospital transmission and possible severe infections.
Benthic Archives Reveal Recurrence and Dominance of Toxigenic Cyanobacteria in a Eutrophic Lake over the Last 220 Years
Authors: Legrand Benjamin , Lamarque Amélie , Sabart Marion , Latour Delphine
Published: September 2017

Akinetes are resistant cells which have the ability to persist in sediment for several decades. We have investigated the temporal distribution of akinetes of two species, Dolichospermum macrosporum and Dolichospermum flos-aquae, in a sediment core sampled in Lake Aydat (France), which covers 220 years. The upper part, from 1907 to 2016, the number of akinetes fluctuated but stayed at high concentrations, especially for D. macrosporum in surface sediment (with the maximal value close to 6.105 akinetes g DW−1 of sediment), suggesting a recurrence of blooms of this species which was probably closely related to anthropic eutrophication since the 1960s. Before 1907, the abundance of akinetes of both species was very low, suggesting only a modest presence of these cyanobacteria. In addition, the percentage of intact akinetes was different for each species, suggesting different ecological processes in the water column. This percentage also decreased with depth, revealing a reduction in germination potential over time. In addition, biosynthetic genes of anatoxin-a (anaC) and microcystin (mcyA) were detected. First results show a high occurrence of mcyA all down the core. In contrast, anaC gene was mostly detected in the surface sediment (since the 1980s), revealing a potentially more recent occurrence of this cyanotoxin in Lake Aydat which may be associated with the recurrence of blooms of D. macrosporum and thus with anthropic activities.
SGS3 Cooperates with RDR6 in Triggering Geminivirus-Induced Gene Silencing and in Suppressing Geminivirus Infection in Nicotiana Benthamiana
Authors: Li Fangfang , Wang Yaqin , Zhou Xueping
Published: September 2017

RNA silencing has an important role in defending against virus infection in plants. Plants with the deficiency of RNA silencing components often show enhanced susceptibility to viral infections. RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RDRs) mediated-antiviral defense has a pivotal role in resistance to many plant viruses. In RDR6-mediated defense against viral infection, a plant-specific RNA binding protein, Suppressor of Gene Silencing 3 (SGS3), was also found to fight against some viruses in Arabidopsis. In this study, we showed that SGS3 from Nicotiana benthamiana (NbSGS3) is required for sense-RNA induced post-transcriptional gene silencing (S-PTGS) and initiating sense-RNA-triggered systemic silencing. Further, the deficiency of NbSGS3 inhibited geminivirus-induced endogenous gene silencing (GIEGS) and promoted geminivirus infection. During TRV-mediated NbSGS3 or N. benthamiana RDR6 (NbRDR6) silencing process, we found that their expression can be effectively fine-tuned. Plants with the knock-down of both NbSGS3 and NbRDR6 almost totally blocked GIEGS, and were more susceptible to geminivirus infection. These data suggest that NbSGS3 cooperates with NbRDR6 against GIEGS and geminivirus infection in N. benthamiana, which provides valuable information for breeding geminivirus-resistant plants.
Die Another Day: Inhibition of Cell Death Pathways by Cytomegalovirus
Authors: Brune Wolfram , Andoniou Christopher
Published: September 2017

Multicellular organisms have evolved multiple genetically programmed cell death pathways that are essential for homeostasis. The finding that many viruses encode cell death inhibitors suggested that cellular suicide also functions as a first line of defence against invading pathogens. This theory was confirmed by studying viral mutants that lack certain cell death inhibitors. Cytomegaloviruses, a family of species-specific viruses, have proved particularly useful in this respect. Cytomegaloviruses are known to encode multiple death inhibitors that are required for efficient viral replication. Here, we outline the mechanisms used by the host cell to detect cytomegalovirus infection and discuss the methods employed by the cytomegalovirus family to prevent death of the host cell. In addition to enhancing our understanding of cytomegalovirus pathogenesis we detail how this research has provided significant insights into the cross-talk that exists between the various cell death pathways.
Prevalence of Selected Zoonotic and Vector-Borne Agents in Dogs and Cats on the Pine Ridge Reservation
Authors: Scorza A. , Lappin Michael
Published: September 2017

The prevalence of intestinal parasites and vector-borne agents of dogs and cats in the Pine Ridge Reservation, South Dakota were determined. Fecal samples (84 dogs, 9 cats) were examined by centrifugal floatation and by immunofluorescence assay (FA) for Giardia and Cryptosporidium. PCR was performed on Giardia [beta-giardin (bg), triose phosphate isomerase (tpi), glutamate dehydrogenase genes (gdh)] and Cryptosporidium [heat shock protein-70 gene (hsp)] FA positive samples. Cat sera (n = 32) were tested for antibodies against Bartonella spp., Toxoplasma gondii, and FIV, and antigens of FeLV and Dirofilaria immitis. Dog sera (n = 82) were tested for antibodies against T. gondii, Borrelia burgdorferi, Ehrlichia canis, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum and D. immitis antigen. Blood samples (92 dogs, 39 cats) were assessed by PCR for amplification of DNA of Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia spp., Anaplasma spp., haemoplasmas, and Babesia spp. (dogs only). The most significant results were Giardia spp. (32% by FA), Taenia spp. (17.8%) and Cryptosporidium spp. (7.1%). The Giardia isolates typed as the dog-specific assemblages C or D and four Cryptosporidium isolates typed as C. canis. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 15% of the dogs. Antibodies against Bartonella spp. and against T. gondii were detected in 37.5% and 6% of the cats respectively. FeLV antigen was detected in 10% of the cats.
The Effect of a Spiral Gradient Magnetic Field on the Ionic Conductivity of Water
Authors: Bartušek Karel , Marcoň Petr , Fiala Pavel , Máca Josef , Dohnal Přemysl
Published: September 2017

We discuss the experimental verification of changes in the structure of a liquid water sample inserted in a special spiral “gradient” magnetic field. The magnetic flux components are characterized by a high degree of inhomogeneity; thus, a gradient is found in the monitored section of space. The relevant measurement of the modified, rearranged water sample pointed to a specific ion conductivity lower than that of the untreated water. The results of the experiment, where a sample of demineralized water was exposed to a spiral “gradient“ magnetic field for the period of 5 min, show decreased ion conductivity in the examined samples.
Modeling the Dispersion of E. coli in Waterbodies Due to Urban Sources: A Spatial Approach
Authors: Borel Kyna , Swaminathan Vaishali , Vance Cherish , Roberts Galen , Srinivasan Raghavan , Karthikeyan Raghupathy
Published: September 2017

In the United States, pathogens are the leading cause for rivers and streams to exceed water quality standards. The Spatially Explicit Load Enrichment Calculation Tool (SELECT) was developed to estimate bacterially contaminated water bodies based on spatial factors such as land use, soil, and population density. SELECT was originally automated using Visual Basics for Applications (VBA), which is no longer supported by the current version of ArcGIS. The aim of this research was to develop a new SELECT interface, pySELECT, using the Python programming language and to incorporate a rainfall-runoff E. coli transport module to simulate E. coli loads resulting from urban sources, such as dogs and on-site wastewater treatment systems. The pySELECT tool was applied to Lavon Lake, a semi urban study watershed in Northeast Texas. The highest potential E. coli loads were in the areas closest to the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, and the highest transported loads were located downstream from those identified hotspots or where the most runoff was generated. Watershed managers can use pySELECT to develop best management practices on the specific areas and fecal sources that contribute fecal contamination into a waterbody.
Assessing Thermally Stressful Events in a Rhode Island Coldwater Fish Habitat Using the SWAT Model
Authors: Chambers Britta , Pradhanang Soni , Gold Arthur
Published: September 2017

It has become increasingly important to recognize historical water quality trends so that the future impacts of climate change may be better understood. Climate studies have suggested that inland stream temperatures and average streamflow will increase over the next century in New England, thereby putting aquatic species sustained by coldwater habitats at risk. In this study we evaluated two different approaches for modeling historical streamflow and stream temperature in a Rhode Island, USA, watershed with the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), using (i) original SWAT and (ii) SWAT plus a hydroclimatological model component that considers both hydrological inputs and air temperature. Based on daily calibration results with six years of measured streamflow and four years of stream temperature data, we examined occurrences of stressful conditions for brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) using the hydroclimatological model. SWAT with the hydroclimatological component improved modestly during calibration (NSE of 0.93, R2 of 0.95) compared to the original SWAT (NSE of 0.83, R2 of 0.93). Between 1980–2009, the number of stressful events, a moment in time where high or low flows occur simultaneously with stream temperatures exceeding 21 °C, increased by 55% and average streamflow increased by 60%. This study supports using the hydroclimatological SWAT component and provides an example method for assessing stressful conditions in southern New England’s coldwater habitats.
Debris Flow Susceptibility Assessment in the Wudongde Dam Area, China Based on Rock Engineering System and Fuzzy C-Means Algorithm
Authors: Li Yanyan , Wang Honggang , Chen Jianping , Shang Yanjun
Published: September 2017

Debris flows in the Wudongde dam area, China could pose a huge threat to the running of the power station. Therefore, it is of great significance to carry out a susceptibility analysis for this area. This paper presents an application of the rock engineering system and fuzzy C-means algorithm (RES_FCM) for debris flow susceptibility assessment. The watershed of the Jinsha River close to the Wudongde dam site in southwest China was taken as the study area, where a total of 22 channelized debris flow gullies were mapped by field investigations. Eight environmental parameters were selected for debris flow susceptibility assessment, namely, lithology, watershed area, slope angle, stream density, length of the main stream, curvature of the main stream, distance from fault and vegetation cover ratio. The interactions among these parameters and their weightings were determined using the RES method. A debris flow susceptibility map was produced by dividing the gullies into three categories of debris flow susceptibility based on the susceptibility index (SI) using the FCM algorithm. The results show that the susceptibility levels for nine of the debris flow gullies are high, nine are moderate and four are low, respectively. The RES based K-means algorithm (RES_KM) was used for comparison. The results suggest that the RES_FCM method and the RES_KM method provide very close evaluation results for most of the debris flow gullies, which also agree well with field investigations. The prediction accuracy of the new method is 90.9%, larger than that obtained by the RES_KM method (86.4%). Therefore, the RES_FCM method performs better than the RES_KM method for assessing the susceptibility of debris flows.
Self-assembly of chiral fluorescent nanoparticles based on water-soluble L-tryptophan derivatives of p-tert-butylthiacalix[4]arene
Authors: Padnya Pavel L , Khripunova Irina A , Mostovaya Olga A , Mukhametzyanov Timur A , Evtugyn Vladimir G , Vorobev Vyacheslav V , Osin Yuri N , Stoikov Ivan I
Published: September 2017

New water-soluble tetra-substituted derivatives of p-tert-butylthiacalix[4]arene containing fragments of L-tryptophan in cone and 1,3-alternate conformations were obtained. It was shown that the resulting compounds form stable, positively charged aggregates of 86–134 nm in diameter in water at a concentration of 1 × 10−4 M as confirmed by dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. It was established that these aggregates are fluorescently active and chiral. A distinctive feature of the compounds is the pronounced dependence of their spectral (emission and chiroptical) properties on the polarity of the solvent and the length of the linker between the macrocyclic and fluorophore parts of the molecule.
Solvent-free sonochemistry: Sonochemical organic synthesis in the absence of a liquid medium
Authors: Crawford Deborah E
Published: September 2017

Sonochemistry, i.e., the application of mechanical energy in the form of sound waves, has recently been recognised for its similarity to mechanochemistry and is now included under the umbrella term of mechanochemistry. Typically, due to the hypothesised cavitation mechanism, a liquid medium is considered as a necessity for a process to take place as a result of ultrasonic irradiation. In view of this, condensation reactions between solid reagents in the complete absence of solvent were carried out successfully by ultrasonic irradiation with the importance of particle size being highlighted. This work increases the potential of sonochemistry in the drive towards a sustainable future.
A Meta-Analysis of Laninamivir Octanoate for Treatment and Prophylaxis of Influenza
Authors: Higashiguchi Masayoshi , Matsumoto Tomoshige , Fujii Takashi
Published: September 2017

Background

Laninamivir octanoate is a recently developed inhaled neuraminidase inhibitor for treating influenza virus infection. We performed meta-analyses to clarify the efficacy of laninamivir octanoate on influenza treatment and prevention.

Methods

MEDLINE and CENTRAL were searched to identify eligible studies. The log median time to event ratios (logMRs) and log odds ratios (logORs) were combined with meta-analysis.

Results

Nine studies in treatment settings and three studies in prophylaxis settings were eligible for this meta-analysis. There was no significant difference between laninamivir octanoate and oseltamivir (8 studies, logMR 0.04, 95% CI [-0.05, 0.14]; P=0.36) or zanamivir (4 studies, logMR -0.01, 95% CI [-0.12, 0.11]; P=0.93) in alleviating fever. However, laninamivir octanoate was associated with significantly longer fever duration in treating H3N2 influenza as compared to oseltamivir (4 studies, logMR 0.29, 95% CI [0.00, 0.59]; P=0.047). Laninamivir octanoate was associated with significantly longer duration of fever as compared to peramivir (4 studies, logMR 0.46, 95% CI [0.14, 0.77]; P=0.004). Laninamivir octanoate significantly reduced the incidence of clinical influenza in post-exposure settings (3 studies, logOR -1.17, 95% CI [-1.72, -0.62]; P<0.001).

Conclusions

Overall, the efficacy of laninamivir octanoate in treating influenza was comparable to that of oseltamivir or zanamivir, but it should be noted that laninamivir octanoate was associated with significantly longer fever duration in treating influenza H3N2 as compared to oseltamivir and oseltamivir-resistant mutations in seasonal influenza H1N1 might have affected the results. Peramivir may be superior to laninamivir in treating influenza. Laninamivir octanoate is effective in preventing influenza in post-exposure settings as compared to placebo.
Boyeria irene (Fonscolombe, 1838) y Cordulegaster boltonii (Donovan, 1807) (Odonata): dos estrategias en cuanto a sustratos de emergencia de larvas en un mismo hábitat
Authors: Casanueva Patricia , Hernández Mª Ángeles , Campos Francisco , Santamaría Tomás
Published: September 2017

Se presentan datos sobre emergencia de Cordulegaster boltonii y Boyeria irene en un río de montaña del centro de España (altitud 1200 m s.n.m.) donde coexisten ambas especies, basados en la recogida semanal de exuvias. Boyeria irene comenzó a emerger 28 días más tarde que C. boltonii. Los sustratos usados por las larvas de ambas especies para emerger se solaparon ampliamente, aunque C. boltonii utilizó significativamente más árboles. Con respecto a otras zonas geográficas, las dos especies han modificado su estrategia, retrasando el inicio del periodo de emergencia. Se discute la importancia de las condiciones ambientales (sobre todo temperatura) en este hecho.
La colección histórica de esponjas del Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN.CSIC): 1771–1939
Authors: Sánchez-Almazán J. I.
Published: September 2017

En esta publicación se presenta por vez primera un estudio de la colección histórica de esponjas del Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, que reúne material procedente de tres períodos: la época del Real Gabinete de Historia Natural (1771 a 1815), el último cuarto del siglo XIX y los años que van de 1901 a 1939, en los que fue director Ignacio Bolívar. La colección comprende más de 800 ejemplares, de 143 especies. De la primera época se conservan 61, de 26 especies: 41 de la colección de Pedro Franco Dávila o de los años en que éste fue director del Real Gabinete (1771–1786), 13 de Antonio Parra, seis de Rojas Clemente y uno de la expedición Malaspina (1789–1794). Otros 350, en su mayoría preparaciones microscópicas, de 40 especies, son de fines del XIX. Por último, más de 400 (120 especies) ingresaron bajo la dirección de Ignacio Bolívar (1901–1939). Este trabajo tiene un triple objetivo: 1) Continuar el estudio del material procedente del Real Gabinete, iniciado en el período 2003–2007; 2) presentar los resultados del trabajo de recuperación, realizado desde 2014, de más de 400 preparaciones microscópicas de esponjas del siglo XIX y comienzos del XX que estaban sin inventariar, junto con una revisión del resto de material de esa época; 3) investigar la obra de Francisco Ferrer Hernández, que destacó en la época de Bolívar identificando más de 280 ejemplares y describiendo una docena de especies nuevas.
Eco-trench: a novel trench solution based on reusing excavated material and a finishing layer of expansive concrete
Authors: Blanco A. , Pujadas P. , Fernández C. , Cavalaro S. H.P. , Aguado A.
Published: September 2017

Installing utility pipelines generates a significant amount of trench arisings, which are usually transported to landfills instead of being reused as backfill material. This practice generates CO2 emissions and wastes raw materials. This paper presents a more sustainable solution, an eco-trench, which is based on re-using trench arisings as backfill and adding a top layer of expansive concrete to improve the eco-trench’s structural performance. The technical feasibility of the eco-trench was evaluated through a finite element model, which identified the degree of expansion in concrete required to avoid failure or subside the stresses caused by traffic. The potential expansion of concrete was measured under confined conditions in the laboratory by means of a novel test developed for this purpose. The results showed that adding calcium oxide generates the required internal stress. The results were then confirmed in a pilot experience.
Properties of geopolymer binders prepared from milled pond ash
Authors: Temuujin J. , Minjigmaa A. , Bayarzul U. , Kim D. S. , Lee S-Ho , Lee H. J. , Ruescher C. H. , MacKenzie K. J.D.
Published: September 2017

Alkali-activated materials were prepared from pond ash from the Darkhan city (Mongolia) thermal power station. This ash contains about 60 wt % X-ray amorphous material in addition to quartz, mullite, hematite and magnesioferrite, and presents significant storage problems since it is accumulating in large amounts and is a hazardous waste, containing 90–100 ppm of the heavy metals As, Pb and Cr, and about 800 ppm Sr. Alkali-activated materials synthesized from the as-received pond ash achieved compressive strengths of only 3.25 MPa. Reduction of the particle size by mechanical milling for up to 30 min progressively increases the compressive strength of the resulting alkali-activated geopolymer up to 15.4 MPa. Leaching tests indicate that the combination of milling and alkali treatment does not cause the release of the hazardous heavy metals from the product, making it suitable for construction applications.
Rabearivelo : « Yo fui negro y vierto la luz »
Authors: Luce Xavier
Published: September 2017

Cet article propose de lire le manuscrit d’une nouvelle inédite de Jean-Joseph Rabearivelo comme une fable de l’Histoire dans laquelle se condenserait, d’une part, une veine ethno-nationale marquée par l’État centralisateur précolonial (le royaume de l’Imerina) irriguée par les mouvements régionalistes français ; et, d’autre part, une conscience d’intellectuel colonisé qui emprunte autant aux théories raciales des années folles qu’elle articule un discours critique sur la présence française à Madagascar.
Persistência e Value Relevance dos Resultados Contábeis com a Adoção das IFRS: Um Estudo em Empresas de Países do GLENIF
Authors: Brunozi Júnior Antônio Carlos , Ott Ernani , Coelho Daniela Miguel , Menegat Luciana Arenhart , Webber Fabiano Lima
Published: September 2017

A evidente expansão das IFRS internacionalmente promoveu interesses da literatura em analisar os seus impactos na qualidade dos resultados contábeis. Nestas associações, as pesquisas indicaram contrariedades nos achados empíricos, com estes dilemas mais acentuados nos estudos das empresas de países em desenvolvimento. Diante disso, neste estudo, investigou-se, a partir das perspectivas econômicas e institucionais, se as IFRS afetaram a persistência e o value relevance dos resultados contábeis de empresas nos países do GLENIF. Para testar estas predições, a pesquisa contemplou 563 empresas da Argentina, Brasil, Chile, Colômbia, México e Peru no período de 2003 a 2014. Com a aplicação dos modelos de Easton e Harris (1991); Ohlson (1995); Sloan (1996); Burgstahler e Dichev (1997) e Pincus, Rajgopal e Venkatachalam (2007) utilizou-se da técnica de regressão com dados em painel. Os resultados evidenciaram a aceitação parcial das hipóteses. Os dados contábeis mostraram-se mais relevantes após a implementação das IFRS, enquanto somente Argentina, Colômbia e México apresentaram os resultados contábeis mais persistentes. Nas observações em relação à adoção preliminar das IFRS, os resultados contábeis das empresas nos países mostraram-se mais persistentes ao adotarem por um período mais longo esses padrões, em contraponto, para o value relevance, não ocorreram diferenças significativas após as IFRS. Em resumo, este estudo apontou que as IFRS por si só não são fatores institucionais que melhoram integralmente a qualidade dos resultados contábeis de países em desenvolvimento.
A Modernização dos Tribunais de Contas do Brasil: Avaliação da implantação do PROMOEX nos Tribunais de Contas subnacionais
Authors: Rocha Diones Gomes da , Zuccolotto Robson
Published: September 2017

A partir da Constituição Federal brasileira de 1988, os Tribunais de Contas brasileiros tiveram suas competências ampliadas para realizar o controle da gestão das entidades públicas sobre diferentes perspectivas, tais como, operacional, contábil, orçamentária e financeira. As diferenças entre essas instituições em termos de recursos econômicos, tecnológicos e de recursos humanos eram fatores que dificultavam a adaptação dessas instituições às novas competências adquiridas. O Promoex surgiu então como uma solução para modernização dos TCs subnacionais brasileiros. Tal solução contou com recursos da ordem de em US$ 64,4 milhões de Dólares. O objetivo desta pesquisa, portanto, é avaliar a implementação desse programa pelos 33 TCs subnacionais. A avaliação foi realizada a partir de documentos coletados nos sítios na internet do MPOG, ATRICON, IRB e no Portal dos Tribunais de Contas do Brasil, além do Acordo de Empréstimo 1.628-OC/BR, do Relatório de Cumprimento de Objeto, do Relatório de Progresso do 1° e 2° semestres de 2013 (relatório final), das pesquisas realizadas pela FIA e FGV. Os resultados indicam que o Promoex ficou aquém do esperado; que as propostas de modernização estavam mais voltadas a resolver problemas do âmbito administrativo; e que o Promoex representou baixo impacto nas ações desenvolvidas pelos TCs.
DESEMPENHO ECONÔMICO-FINANCEIRO E REMUNERAÇÃO DOS DIRETORES EXECUTIVOS DAS EMPRESAS BRASILEIRAS
Authors: Degenhart Larissa , Martins Daniele De Lourdes Curto da Costa , Hein Nelson
Published: September 2017

Este estudo objetivou analisar se há relação entre o desempenho econômico-financeiro e a remuneração dos diretores executivos das empresas brasileiras. Diante disso, realizou-se uma pesquisa descritiva, documental e quantitativa. O período de análise compreendeu os anos de 2011 a 2015. A população do estudo compreendeu as empresas brasileiras listadas na BM&FBovespa, e a amostra constituiu-se das empresas que apresentaram todas as variáveis utilizadas em cada ano pesquisado, totalizando 219 empresas. Para a análise dos dados realizou-se a análise de correlação de Spearman e a Regressão Linear, sendo que foi realizada por meio do software estatístico SPSS®. A partir dos resultados do estudo verificou-se que as variáveis: Rentabilidade do Ativo Total (ROA) e Tamanho da empresa apresentaram relação significativa e positiva com a Remuneração Fixa, Variável e Total dos diretores executivos. Estes resultados revelaram para o cenário analisado, que a remuneração dos diretores executivos é maior quando o ROA é elevado e ainda, em relação ao Tamanho da empresa, as grandes empresas remuneram mais seus executivos do que as empresas menores.Por fim, pode-se concluir que há uma relação entre o desempenho econômico-financeiro e a Remuneração Fixa, Variável e Total dos diretores executivos das empresas brasileiras listadas na BM&FBovespa. Além disso, esta pesquisa contribui para o entendimento dos valores pagos aos diretores executivos, demonstrando que o desempenho das empresas reflete na remuneração dos diretores executivos, fazendo com que estes atuem na empresa com vistas a elevar os resultados econômico-financeiros.
CUSTO-BENEFICIO DOS INCENTIVOS FISCAIS E INDICADORES DE DESEMPENHO: UM ESTUDO DE CASO NA EMPRESA GRENDENE S/A
Authors: Marostica Josiane , Petri Sérgio Murilo
Published: September 2017

Este estudo tem por objetivo analisar o custo-benefício dos incentivos fiscais e indicadores de desempenho da empresa calçadista Grendene S/A no período de 2010 a 2014. A pesquisa se justifica pela importância de as empresas buscarem técnicas e metodologias que sejam mais vantajosas empresarialmente, a fim de atingirem melhores desempenhos, neste sentido, a contabilidade se mostra como uma importante ferramenta, atuando como fonte de informações para o processo decisório e na medição de riqueza dos seus investidores. Utilizou-se a metodologia de estudo de caso com empresa do setor calçadista listada na BM&FBovespa, com dados do período de 2010 a 2014 disponíveis na base do Economática e nas Demonstrações Financeiras. De posse dos dados foi identificado as modalidades de incentivos fiscais que a empresa usufruiu no decorrer do estudo, assim como os indicadores de desempenho tradicionais. Para analisar o custo-benefício dos incentivos fiscais foi utilizado dados da DVA e das subvenções fiscais disponibilizadas nas notas explicativas das DFPs. Os resultados apontam que a empresa necessita de um constante e efetivo monitoramento dos custos e dos benefícios da renúncia fiscal. Identifica-se também que o valor dos incentivos fiscais recebidos não equivale proporcionalmente a geração de riqueza líquida. Os resultados deste estudo confirmam a base teórica de que os benefícios trazidos pelos incentivos fiscais superam os custos decorrentes da renúncia fiscal, porém pode representar uma dependência perigosa, a ponto de comprometer a continuidade da empresa caso fossem removidos
Impacto dos lucros retidos sobre a criação de valor para o acionista de companhias abertas brasileiras
Authors: Silva Leonardo Cunha da , Albanez Tatiana
Published: September 2017

A decisão da companhia de reinvestir os lucros parte da premissa de que o retorno do capital investido será superior ao custo de oportunidade, consequentemente, criando valor ao acionista. Assim, a geração de riqueza da entidade será influenciada pelo nível de retenção dos resultados. Portanto, busca-se neste trabalho examinar como os lucros retidos afetam a criação de valor de 223 companhias abertas brasileiras, no período 2008-2014, tendo como controle as oportunidades de investimento. Para tanto, utilizou-se estatísticas descritivas e modelos de dados em painel. Como principais resultados, encontra-se que há um alto nível de retenção dos lucros na amostra, no entanto, uma pequena parte das empresas criou valor no período. Ainda, destaca-se a relação negativa entre o nível de capitalização dos lucros e o valor criado. Ademais, observou-se que as empresas pertencentes aos grupos de maiores níveis de distribuição de lucros acabaram por gerar mais riqueza aos investidores.
POLÍTICA DE DESONERAÇÃO DO IPI E SEU IMPACTO NO SETOR AUTOMOTIVO E CORRELATOS
Authors: Abrantes Luiz Antônio , Barbosa Lucas Tristão , Almeida Fernanda Maria de , Oliveira Guilherme de Avelar
Published: September 2017

A política de desoneração do IPI no setor automotivo surgiu da necessidade de resposta frente à crise mundial de 2008 que afetou o Brasil. Nesse sentido, o Governo Federal definiu a redução dos percentuais das alíquotas aplicadas aos produtos do setor automotivo e correlatos, atrelados a vários fatores como potência do motor, tipo de combustível e local de produção, com vistas à recuperação da demanda do setor e, com isso, à estimulação da economia. Nesse contexto, o objetivo deste trabalho consiste em avaliar as implicações da política de desoneração do IPI, a partir de 2009, no faturamento das empresas de capital aberto do setor automobilístico e setores correlatos. Como metodologia, utilizou-se um modelo de regressão múltipla com dados em Painel Dinâmico, com vistas a explicar as variações do faturamento das empresas do setor em detrimento da desoneração do IPI. Foram utilizados dados de 84 empresas do referido setor, obtidos na base do software Economática para o período de 1998 a 2015. Os resultados mostraram a redução do recolhimento do IPI nos períodos de desoneração, tanto em âmbito geral quanto no específico. Quanto ao nível de faturamento das empresas avaliadas, verificou-se que houve influência negativa a partir da adoção da política de desoneração. Assim, conclui-se que a política tributária em análise não contribuiu para ampliação da média de faturamento das empresas do setor automotivo.
Segnalazione di una nuova popolazione di Dolichopoda schiavazzii caprai presente nella grotta Buca Tana di Maggiano (Lucca, Toscana, Italia) con alcune note biogeografiche sulla diffusione della specie in Toscana (Orthoptera, rhaphidophoridae)
Authors: Bramanti Alessandro
Published: September 2017

Viene segnalata una nuova popolazione di Dolichopoda schiavazzii individuata nella grotta Buca tana di maggiano nel comune di Lucca (toscana), alle pendici meridionali delle Alpi Apuane. Sono inoltre riportate alcune osservazioni sulla diffusione della specie nella toscana nord-occidentale alla luce delle attuali conoscenze dell’evoluzione paleoambientale e paleoclimatica della regione.
Segnalazioni Faunistiche Italiane
Authors: V.V. A.A.
Published: September 2017

non disponibile
Bronchoalveolar lavage: General utilization and correlation between special stains and microbiologic cultures at a major pediatric institution
Authors: Tan Geok , Al-Rawabdeh Sura , Leber Amy , Kahwash Samir
Published: September 2017

Background: Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) is a widely used method in the evaluation of lung pathology in adults and children. The main indications in children include confirming suspected infection/inflammation, aspiration pneumonia, and periodic evaluation of lungs in cystic fibrosis patients. Materials and methods: We reviewed a total of 308 consecutive reports from pediatric BAL specimens as a part of quality assurance project aiming to compare morphologic findings of cytological examination with microbiology testing and evaluate impact of reported data at different stages of sample testing process. Results and Conclusions: We summarized our findings below and found that in most cases of infections, definitive clinical decisions were taken only after microbiologic culture results were available as compared to morphologic findings.
Thyrotoxic graves' disease-induced by interferon-ribavirin therapy in a patient with amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism on thyroxine replacement
Authors: Absat Adela
Published: September 2017

An unusual type of drug-induced thyroid dysfunction is described. Thyrotoxicosis was seen in association with the use of interferon therapy despite prior established amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism. A 63-year-old female patient with a history of hypertension, high-grade ventricular arrhythmia on sotalol 80 mg daily was diagnosed to have amiodarone-induced hypothyroidism previously. She has been receiving thyroxine replacement therapy for 4 years. During the second cycle of interferon for hepatitis C virus relapse. She developed autonomous thyrotoxicosis. Her anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody was persistently negative before, during, and after either amiodarone or interferon while anti-thyroid stimulating hormone receptor antibody titer. Thyroid Tc-99m scan showed a high uptake during interferon therapy. To the best of the author's knowledge, this is the first report of a case of long-term hypothyroidism-induced by amiodarone therapy evolving into thyrotoxic Graves' disease-induced by interferon/ribavirin combination therapy in Libya reflecting an interaction of drugs and the background autoimmune disease.