bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross Models for Twin Recognition
Authors: Gu Datong , Nguyen Minh , Yan Weiqi
Published: August 2016

Nowadays, Biometrics has become a popular tool in personal identification as it can use physiological or behavioral characteristics to identify individuals. Recent advances in information technology has increased the accuracy of biometric to another level, there is still a slew of problems existed, such as complex environment, aging and unique problems. Among many classes of identifications, recognizing twins is one of the most difficult tasks as they resemble each other. This affects the use of biometrics in general cases and raises potential risks of biometrics in access control. In this paper, the authors manage to distinguish twins using four different models, namely, face recognition, ear recognition, voice recognition and lip movement recognition. Their results show that voice recognition has the best performance in twin recognition with 100% accuracy. This is much higher than that of face recognition and ear recognition (with 58% and 53% respectively); and lip movement recognition that yields 76% accuracy.
Squint Pixel Steganography
Authors: Ch. Rupa
Published: August 2016

Technology is playing a major role in the rapid growth of Techno media in relation to information security. Tampers are a major handicap while transferring medical images. In order to circumvent these issues used Steganography to hide the information inside a cover medium with different carrier formats. In this paper, the author proposes a novel squint pixel based medical image steganography technique to avoid distortion by an attacker. In this method, Original medical image itself acts as a carrier image. A Medical image segmented into two sets of pixels, Region of interest (ROI) and squint pixels of region of non-interest (RONI). The authentic data and information of ROI of a medical image embedded in penultimate and least significant bits (PLSB) of squint pixels of RONI. Results of experiments on various medical images show that the proposed method produces high quality stego medical images with high accuracy and recovery of ROI data without loss.
Determinants of Consumer Intention to Use Online Gambling Services
Authors: Fortes Nuno , Moreira António Carrizo , Saraiva João
Published: August 2016

Online gambling has skyrocketed in recent years. As such, knowing the determinants of consumer usage behavior is crucial in understanding online gambling services. This study has as main objective the construction of an explanatory model of the online gambling services usage behavior, based on the incorporation of perceived risk in the conceptual framework of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2). The empirical validation of the model was performed by conducting an online survey to a convenience sample of 212 Portuguese online players. Data were processed using the PLS-SEM methodology. The results evidence that performance expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivations, price value, habits, as well as perceived risk influence the intention to use online gambling services.
Processed Food Trade of Greece with EU and Non-EU Countries
Authors: Ghazalian Pascal L.
Published: August 2016

This paper examines the implications of the European Union (EU) regional trade preferences for processed food trade between Greece and its EU partners, and between Greece and non-EU countries. The empirical analysis relies on the gravity model, and uses different estimation techniques. The results show that the EU regional trade preferences led to substantial increases in processed food trade between Greece and its EU partners, emphasizing trade creation effects. The magnitudes of these increases are higher than the intra-EU average, and are more pronounced for Greece's imports than for Greece's exports. The results also indicate that the EU regional trade preferences brought about decreases in processed food trade between Greece and non-EU countries, implying trade diversion effects. The Greek food processing industry could benefit from competitiveness-promoting strategies (e.g., upgrading innovation activities, marketing and distribution channels, and production efficiency) to expand exports to the EU market and to counter import competition in the domestic market. JEL Classification: F13, F14, F15.
Price Transmission along the European Food Supply Chain in Selected Northern-Southern Countries
Authors: Chouayet Wael , Rezitis Anthony
Published: August 2016

This study intends to estimate the different characteristics of price transmission and aims to test the hypothesis of price transmission asymmetry based on agricultural, processor and consumer monthly series of price indexes from 2005 to 2012 in 8 European countries from both Southern and Northern Europe and via the use of time series as well as econometric approaches such as co-intergation and error correction models. The results obtained reveal that price transmission has very small magnitude. Indeed, just 10 to 12% of price shocks at one level are corrected in the long-run by prices at another level both downstream and upstream of the food supply chain. The results also show that prices are transmitted mutually in both directions downstream and upstream the food supply chain in the two European groups. Furthermore, they indicate that in the long-run prices are transmitted symmetrically both downstream and upstream of the food supply chains in Northern as well as in Southern Europe. Finally, in the short-run different conclusions are found depending on the region.
Big Data Management
Authors: Orike Sunny , Brown Daboso
Published: August 2016

Organizations and governments leverage on the potentials in data to plan and compete globally. Data from various sources are continually mined, stored in databases and utilized in a manner that improves processes, products and ensure steady profitability. The traditional relational database management systems are unable to cope with these new forms of data. The velocity, volume and variety in which data are generated qualify them as “Big Data”. This scales up the storage and processing needs of client organizations, allowing them to focus on their core areas of expertise. This paper investigates the relevance of aggregating big data and its efficient management in a cloud computing environment. It adopts the prototyping design and a case study approach, based on Couchbase Server, a non-structured query language document database and cloud computing platform. The accruable benefit of this work is organizational cost-effectiveness, timeliness in decision making and higher profitability.
Angular Torque Methodology for Cylinder Head Bolted Joint and Validation by FE and Experimental Work
Authors: Marathe Abhijeet Vithal , Marathe Neelkanth V. , Venkatachalam G.
Published: August 2016

Cylinder Head Gasketed joint is one of the important joint for internal combustion engines. The main function of cylinder Head Gasketed joint is to seal combustion gases, oil and coolant and avoid entering the air into combustion chamber. Preload is applied on cylinder head bolt to avoid the leakages. Excessive preload on cylinder head bolt will cause extra stresses and cylinder bore deformation also increased which reduces the engine performance. Hence, it is very essential to determine adequate and accurate preload on cylinder head bolts. There are different types of bolt tightening methods followed by engine manufacturers as compared to other methods loss of preload and preload variation is less in angle torque method. In this work, Angle torque method for cylinder head bolted joint classical mathematical model is developed to estimate the snug torque and angle torque. Model is validated with FE analysis and experimental work. High performance 3-cylinder diesel engine's cylinder head, cylinder head bolts and crankcase are taken for methodology development, FE and experimental work.
An Investigation in Abrasive Waterjet Cutting of Al6061/SiC/Al2O3 Composite Using Principal Component Based Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Santhanakumar M. , Adalarasan R. , Rajmohan M.
Published: August 2016

Abrasive waterjet was found effective in cutting materials like glass, steel and aluminium for various industrial applications. The effect of process parameters on abrasive waterjet cutting (AWJC) of Al6061/SiC/Al2O3 composite was disclosed in the present work. The cutting parameters taken for study were traverse speed, abrasive flow rate, water pressure and stand-off distance. Surface roughness, kerf width and bevel angle of cut were observed as the quality characteristics for various cutting trials. Experiments were designed using Taguchi's L18 orthogonal array and an integrated technique of principal component based response surface methodology (PC-RSM) was disclosed for designing the parameters. Significant improvements were observed in the quality characteristics obtained with optimal parameter setting identified by PC-RSM approach. Abrasive waterjet parameters like water pressure, stand-off distance and the interaction between abrasive flow rate and traverse speed were found to be influential on the quality characteristics.
Parameter Optimization of Thermal Barrier Coatings used in Two Stoke Externally Scavenged S.I. Engine using Non-Traditional Optimization Algorithms
Authors: Dhomne Shailesh , Mahalle Ashish M.
Published: August 2016

Various researchers have studied and introduced, although limited, varieties of thermal barrier coatings (TBC) materials. Each of these TBC materials has their own respective properties. Considering all these properties which one will be the effective choice among the available lot is very difficult to estimate. The optimisation is carried out using non-traditional optimisation techniques namely simple additive weighting method (SAW), weighted product method (WPM), technique for order preference by similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) & preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluations (PROMETHEE) are used to find out the best optimal choice for the specified engine. The results of the above mentioned algorithms are compared and presented in this paper to decide which tbc material will perform comparatively better & give accordingly the good results.
Design of Assessment Information System for Program Accreditation
Authors: Bhatti Arif , Ahmed Irfan
Published: August 2016

Academic programs seek accreditation to raise their profile. Establishment of program assessment and continuous improvements processes is required to gain and maintain accreditation. Assessment processes are about defining course learning outcomes, student outcomes, and program educational objectives; collect course assessment data, perform statistical evaluations and derive meaningful conclusions to improve the program. Web-based technologies can be used to improve communication, collaboration, coordination and flow control among different entities involved in the processes. This paper presents a web-based system that was designed to assist in assessment and continuous improvement processes with objective to meet the requirements of two accreditation bodies in a program that has academically diverse faculty.
Using Blended Learning Approach to Deliver Courses in An Engineering Programme
Authors: Moalosi Richie , Uziak Jacek , Oladiran Moses Tunde
Published: August 2016

The paper discusses how the use of blended learning approach was adopted to deliver a 3rd year Mechanics of Machines course for Mechanical Engineering students at the University of Botswana. The course delivery involved a mix of both face-to-face and Blackboard technology to create an efficient and effective learning environment. A survey of 101 students was conducted over a period of 3 years for the respondents to evaluate their teaching and learning preferences. The results show that students accepted the blended learning approach because of its benefits. More lecturers are encouraged to use blended learning and teaching approaches to promote active, independent and lifelong learning.
Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Brick Produced Using Recycled Fine Aggregate
Authors: Ismail Sallehan , Anas Zafirol Abdullah Halim , Zaiton Yaacob
Published: August 2016

Continuous reduction of construction mineral resources, such as sand and cement, which influence the increase in cost of raw materials, has stimulated initiatives to look for alternative sustainable materials. This research aims to determine the potential and feasibility use of recycled fine aggregate (RFA) generated from demolition waste rubble wall as aggregate to replace natural sand in the production of cement and sand bricks. The brick specimens are prepared by using 100% natural sand, which is then replaced by RFA at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% by weight of natural sand. Research parameters, such as dimension, compressive and flexural strength, density, and water absorption, are adopted to evaluate the physical and mechanical properties of the brick specimens. In addition, the thermal conductivity of the bricks composed using different RFA proportions are studied. Experimental results clearly indicate that manufacturing cement and sand brick by incorporating RFA is possible, and the effect inclusion of RFA at certain proportions causes a significant improvement in the mechanical properties of bricks. However, to obtain better mechanical strength results, RFA dosages to replace sand should reach up to 50%.
Effect of Al Content in Low Carbon High Manganese TWIP Steel
Authors: Tewary Nisith Kumar , Ghosh Swarup Kumar , Chatterjee Subrata
Published: August 2016

Al addition in TWIP steel not only reduces the specific weight but also increases the stacking fault energy which strongly affects the deformation mechanisms. Hot rolled air cooled TWIP steel with low Al content (1.61 wt. %) reveals duplex microstructure comprising austenite with ferrite, whereas steel with higher content of Al (3.56 wt. %) reveals fully austenite microstructure. It is evident that nano-twins are formed within austenite grain after 50% cold deformation. TWIP steel with the duplex microstructure exhibits an excellent combination of strength and ductility. Hardness and tensile strength values of air cooled steel specimens increase with a concomitant lowering of total elongation with the application of cold deformation. However, steel with low Al content shows higher hardness and tensile strength along with lower elongation as compared to the TWIP steel having higher Al content.
Optimization of EDM Drilling Parameters for Aluminum 2024 Alloy Using Response Surface Methodology and Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Dave Setu , Vora Jay J. , Thakkar Nimesh , Singh Aditya , Srivastava Saurabh , Gadhvi Bhargav , Patel Vivek , Kumar Abhishek
Published: August 2016

AA 2024 alloy is widely used as a structural material in aerospace applications. Its excellent strength to weight ratio makes it suitable for the subsequent application. The aerospace application required close tolerances and accuracy in the machined parts. Henceforth non-conventional machining processes are widely used for different machining operations such as drilling through holes. In the present study, Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) process is used to drill through holes in 5mm thick AA 2024 alloy material. With the aim of reducing the difference between finished diameter of drilled hole and intended diameter, computational technologies were adopted for optimization. Mathematical models were developed using Response Surface methodology (RSM), and subsequently Genetic Algorithm (GA) was used to reach a set of input parameters in order to give minimum difference in diameter. Three input parameters such as current (I), Pulse on time (Ton) and Pulse off time (Toff) were selected. The ANOVA results indicated that developed models were adequate and robust. The GA based approach in conjugation with RSM was able to locate a single set of parameters which gave minimum difference in diameter. Confirmation test was again carried out and the difference between predicted and measured value was negligible.
Hybridized Prototyping Process: A Contemporary Cultural Approach to Enhance Ceramic Production
Authors: Olalere Folasayo Enoch , Shuaib Ab. Aziz
Published: August 2016

The development of postmodern theory, are based on contemporary cultural thought and practice. That is; the eclectic mixture of any tradition with that of its immediate. Thus, Postmodernists artists have shown the taste for hybrids, which involves conjoining two different techniques or cultures across the units of time, background and place. This conjunction or creative binding (hybrid) enables the appreciation of both sides of the equation and their union. Therefore, this study employed a deductive and practice-led approach to determine how viable rapid prototyping technology can improve the production process. However, in order to avoid outright elimination of the artisanal skills, the study examines the viability of integrating the conventional skill and modern technology as hybrid technique. The findings from the study revealed that the integration of rapid prototyping and hand-turning (conventional technique) is a viable hybrid production technique that can reduce the development time drastically, enhance product quality and reduce the development cost reasonably in ceramic production.
Mechanical and Microstructural Evaluation of Y-TZP Using Microwave Sintering Technique
Authors: Golieskardi Mohsen , Satgunam Meenaloshini , Ragurajan Dinesh
Published: August 2016

The effects of adding Al2O3 and CeO2 on the microstructure, mechanical and physical properties of 3 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia (3Y-TZP) ceramics is presented over a wide sintering regime by pressureless sintering. It has been revealed that small additions of dopant to Y-TZP were beneficial in enhancing the mechanical properties of Y-TZP. Sintered samples were used to evaluate the bulk density, Vickers’s hardness, Young’s modulus, and shrinkage of the material. Al2O3 and CeO2 doped Y-TZPs sintered at 1450∘ C retained high bulk density (>97% of theoretical density) and Young’s modulus (>200 GPa) without sacrificing tetragonal phase stability. The optimum level of dopant was found to be at 0.3 Al2O3 / 0.5 CeO2 at sintering temperature between 1250∘ C and 1450∘C using the standard 12 min holding time cycle, with sintered body exhibiting excellent combination of properties when compared to the undoped ceramics.
Amorphous Silica Micro Powder Additive Influence on Bending Strength of One-Ply Particle Board
Authors: Pitukhin Aleksandr Vasilyevich , Kolesnikov Gennady Nikolaevich , Panov Nikolai Gennadievich , Vasilyev Sergey Borisovich
Published: August 2016

The methods and results of experimental investigation on the additive influence of amorphous silica micro powder when mixed in the glue for one-ply particle board are presented in the article. Wooden particles of coniferous and hardwood species as well as glue solution based on carbamide-formaldehyde resin were used for boards manufacturing. The amorphous silica micro powder contained particles 8 μm by the size and specific surface 120...400 m2/g was used in the experiment. The samples were tested to determine their physical-mechanical properties. It was found that 1 % amorphous silica micro powder additive increases the breaking point of one-ply particle board under bending strength by 43%.
Availability of human immunodeficiency virus prevention services in secondary schools in Kabarole District, Uganda
Authors: Namuddu Jane , Waiswa Peter , Nsangi Betty , Iriso Robert , Matovu Joseph , Maganda Albert , Kekitiinwa Adeodata
Published: August 2016

The aim of this study was to assess the level of availability of HIV prevention strategies in secondary schools in Kabarole district, Uganda in order to inform the design of interventions to strengthen HIV Prevention and psychosocial support. Quantitative and qualitative research methods were used in eight secondary schools in Kabarole district to establish available HIV prevention and psychosocial support services. Questionnaires were administered to 355 students 12-24 years old. In addition, 20 Key Informant interviews were held with education service providers. Quantitative data was analyzed using Epi-data and qualitative data were analyzed by thematic content analysis. Seven of the eight schools had at least one HIV prevention strategy. Two teachers in each of the five schools had been trained in HIV prevention. No school had a nurse trained in HIV prevention, care and support. Education service providers had limited knowledge of HIV prevention support and care of students living with HIV. We found out that students had knowledge on how one can acquire HIV. HIV prevention services reported by students in schools included: talks from teachers and guests (19%), drama with HIV prevention related messages (16%), peer education clubs (15%), workshops and seminars on HIV (8%), sensitization about HIV/AIDS (7%), guidance and counseling (6%), talking compounds- (5%), abstinence talks (6%), keeping students busy in sports (4%), straight talk (4%). Sixty three percent reported receiving HIV reading materials from various sources. Preventing HIV infection among students in schools is still demanding with limited interventions for students. Efforts to support school interventions should focus on including HIV Prevention in the school curriculum, working with peer educators as well as education service providers who spend much of the time with the students while at school.
Analysis of the determinants of low cervical cancer screening uptake among Nigerian women
Authors: Nwobodo Humphrey , Ba-Break Maryam
Published: August 2016

Cervical cancer causes an estimated 266,000 deaths globally, 85% of which occurs in developing countries. It is a preventable disease, if detected and treated early via screen and treat, yet its burden is still huge in Nigeria. In 2012, 21.8% cases and 20.3% deaths due to cervical cancer were recorded in Nigeria. This review, therefore, aims at understanding the determinants of low cervical cancer screening in Nigeria in order to contribute in reducing the burden of the disease. Literature were obtained from Global Health, Popline and PubMed databases; WHO and other relevant websites using Eldis search engine; and from libraries in the University of Leeds and WHO in Geneva. Conceptual framework for analyzing the determinants of cervical cancer screening uptake among Nigerian women was formed by inserting service delivery component of the WHO health system framework into a modified Health Belief Model. Wrong perception of cervical cancer and cervical cancer screening due to low level of knowledge about the disease and inadequate cervical cancer preventive were identified as the major determinants of low cervical cancer screening uptake in Nigeria. Among women, belief in being at risk and/or severity of cervical cancer was low just as belief on benefits of cervical cancer screening, unlike high belief in barriers to screening. Support from the community and screening skills among health-workers were inadequate. Improving uptake of cervical cancer screening will reduce the burden of the disease. Therefore, researchers and other stakeholders interested in prevention of cervical cancer should carry-out studies to identify interventions that could address the key determinants of low cervical cancer screening among Nigerian women.
Modeling determinants of anemia among pre-school children in Ethiopia: application of marginal and subject-specific models
Authors: Gaenemo Ashenafi Abebe , Abebe Nebiyu Dereje , Eliso Kebede Alemu
Published: August 2016

Anemia is a chronic disease that seriously affects young children and pregnant women. Knowledge of disease clustering is important because it may provide insights into the etiology of disease and risk factors operating within different levels of the clusters. In this study, we tried to identify determinants of anemia among pre-school children aged 6-59 months in the 11 regions of Ethiopia, with higher probability of occurrence of these determinant factors would be inferred to be most likely to experience anemia. To answer the objective of the research question, models that handle the complexities of correlated data were employed. Hence, both marginal and subject-specific models are employed. The models used were: Generalized Estimating Equations, Alternating Logistic Regression, Proportional Odds Model and Generalized Linear Mixed Model. Statistical findings revealed that the risk of being anemic reduced with age in girls, while boys showed higher risk. Children in rural were found to be less likely to be anemic. Children in large households were found to be more having a higher risk of anemia. Similarly, malaria occurrence was strongly correlated to anemia
The health profile of street children in Africa: a literature review
Authors: Cumber Samuel Nambile , Tsoka-Gwegweni Joyce Mahlako
Published: August 2016

The United Nations Children’s Fund has labeled street children as children in difficult circumstances, which represent a minority population that has been under-represented for too long in health research. This is a concern because street children are at risk of carrying a greater disease burden. Their homeless lifestyle makes them more vulnerable to health risks and problems than children who live at home; as they roam the streets begging for food and money to obtain basic needs and are found sleeping in half-destroyed houses, abandoned basements, under bridges and in the open air. This paper presents health results from a systematic review of literature from 17 databases and including 16 countries in Africa. The review revealed that there are more boys than girls living on the street in their adolescence and who mainly have left home due to poverty and abuse. These children in these countries are vulnerable to poor health due to factors such as homelessness, risky sexual behavior, substance abuse and violence. Among the health problems identified are growth and nutritional disorders, physical injuries, violence, sexual abuse, communicable diseases including diarrheal diseases, malaria, respiratory diseases, neglected tropical diseases, mental health issues, substance abuse, reproductive health disorders, mortality, sexually transmitted diseases and HIV/AIDS. Primary interventions that could prevent poor health and improve the health status of street children include provision of safe shelter, proper nutrition, access to health care, health education, and sexual reproductive health, protection from any form of abuse, violence and substance abuse. Enforcing state policies and laws in all African countries is required to protect street children from neglect, abuse and to increase their access to education. More research on the health risks and health status of street children is still required, particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa, which carries the greatest disease burden and poverty.
Relations- and task-oriented behaviour of school leaders: Cases from primary schools in Finland
Authors: Rajbhandari Mani Man Singh , Rajbhandari Smriti , Loock Coert
Published: August 2016

This research explores and compares two leadership behavioural styles – relations- and task-oriented behavioural styles – of school leaders in Finland. This study aimed to explore and understand the behavioural style of school leaders, specifically related to relations-oriented and task-oriented behaviour. Three schools in Finland were selected. In-depth interviews were conducted with school principals, as school leaders, and other school actors, such as vice
principals, teachers, special-education teachers, and administrative staff members. The results suggest that leadership behavioural styles in terms of relations-oriented and task-oriented behaviour are equally important for accommodating changes and development in schools. The results suggest that relations-oriented behaviour was preferred by those who had been in the organisation for a longer time. The task-oriented behavioural style was found to be adopted when changes were required by the municipality (school district), which needed to be urgently addressed to meet the current requirements for school infrastructural development and changes in the educational system. In addition, the school leaders with task-oriented behaviour were more effective, while leaders with relations-oriented behaviour were efficient and generated social harmony. These findings suggest that contextual variations enabled flexibility in leadership behavioural style.
The role of work-related needs in the relationship between job crafting, burnout and engagement
Authors: Travaglianti Fabrice , Babic Audrey , Hansez Isabelle
Published: August 2016

Orientation: Knowing that it is imperative to better understand the antecedents and consequences of needs-supplies fit, the present research had two main objectives. Firstly we wanted to extend our knowledge about traditional psychological needs, for example highlighted through the Self-Determination Theory, by presenting more specific work-related needs. Secondly, following the new directions of organisational fit theories, we wanted to better understand how individuals make sense of fit.Research purpose: The purpose of this study is to propose more specific work-related needs in terms of employment quality and to test job crafting as an antecedent of needs-supplies fit (NS fit). We tested the double mediating role of NS fit (i.e. specific: based on more specific work-related needs, and general: based on global job perceptions) between job crafting and individual outcomes namely burnout and work engagement.Motivation for the study: By taking into account more specific work-related needs, this study aimed to add more specific information to better help predict well-being at work. Moreover, the present research responds to the need to better understand how individuals make sense of fit.Research design, approach, and method: Data were collected in a Belgian Public Federal Service (N = 1500). Our research model was tested using Structural Equation Modelling with Mplus.Main findings: Results show, (1) that specific NS fit perception was positively related to a global NS fit perception and (2) the partial mediating role (specific and general) of NS fit between job crafting and burnout and work engagement.Practical/managerial implications: Managers should encourage crafting behaviours and should know their team and that team’s specific needs.Contribution/added-value: By taking into account more specific work-related needs, our study suggests that needs-supplies may have more than one dimension. Moreover, it shows that job crafting is a way to increase NS fit.
Temporal variability of readmission determinants in postoperative vascular surgery patients
Authors: Lin MJ , Baky F , Housley BC , Kelly N , Pletcher E , Balshi JD , Stawicki SP , Evans DC
Published: August 2016

Introduction:

Clinical information continues to be limited regarding changes in the temporal risk profile for readmissions during the initial postoperative year in vascular surgery patients. We set out to describe the associations between demographics, clinical outcomes, comorbidity indices, and hospital readmissions in a sample of patients undergoing common extremity revascularization or dialysis access (ERDA) procedures. We hypothesized that factors independently associated with readmission will evolve from “short-term” to “long-term” determinants at 30-, 180-, and 360-day postoperative cutoff points.

Methods:

Following IRB approval, medical records of patients who underwent ERDA at two institutions were retrospectively reviewed between 2008 and 2014. Abstracted data included patient demographics, procedural characteristics, the American Society of Anesthesiologists score, Goldman Criteria for perioperative cardiac assessment, the Charlson comorbidity index, morbidity, mortality, and readmission (at 30-, 180-, and 360-days). Univariate analyses were performed for readmissions at each specified time point. Variables reaching statistical significance of P< 0.20 were included in multivariate analyses for factors independently associated with readmission.

Results:

A total of 450 of 744 patients who underwent ERDA with complete medical records were included. Patients underwent either an extremity revascularization (e.g. bypass or endarterectomy, 406/450) or a noncatheter dialysis access procedure (44/450). Sample characteristics included 262 (58.2%) females, mean age 61.4 ± 12.9 years, 63 (14%) emergent procedures, and median operative time 164 min. Median hospital length of stay (index admission) was 4 days. Cumulative readmission rates at 30-, 180-, and 360-day were 12%, 27%, and 35%, respectively. Corresponding mortality rates were 3%, 7%, and 9%. Key factors independently associated with 30-, 180-, and 360-day readmissions evolved over the study period from comorbidity and morbidity-related issues in the short-term to cardiovascular and graft patency issues in the long-term. Any earlier readmission elevated the risk of subsequent readmission.

Conclusions:

We noted important patterns in the temporal behavior of hospital readmission risk in patients undergoing ERDA. Although factors independently associated with readmission were not surprising (e.g. comorbidity profile, cardiovascular status, and graft patency), the knowledge of temporal trends described in this study may help determine clinical risk profiles for individual patients and guide readmission reduction strategies. These considerations will be increasingly important in the evolving paradigm of value-based healthcare.
Laboratory Spectroscopy Assessments of Rainfed Paddy Soil Samples on Visible and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Reflectance for Estimating Soil Organic Carbon
Authors: Homhuan Sakda , Pansak Wanwisa , Lawawirojwong Siam , Narongrit Chada
Published: August 2016

Visible and near-infrared spectroscopy is a rapid, less expensive, and nondestructive alternative to conventional methods of soil analysis. This study aimed to investigate appropriate soil sample preparations and particle sizes for estimating soil organic carbon (SOC) through the use of laboratory spectroscopy. Rainfed paddy soils were sampled from 240 sampling sites to record their spectral reflectance and to measure their SOC contents in the laboratory. Partial least squares regression was applied to select the best model to estimate SOC using soil spectra. The results showed that the highest accuracy of SOC estimation was gained from soil samples prepared by 2 mm sieving. A short-wave infrared region was the most appropriate spectral wavelength for SOC estimation of rainfed paddy soil. Although the model showed potential in SOC prediction, the accuracy of partial least squares regression prediction in each spectral region varied between sampling times. Therefore, these models and methods should be further tested in soils sampled from different seasons and other regions to prove consistent validity. However, these results are useful for wavelength selection and soil sample preparation in future laboratory spectroscopy.
Role of Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Circadian Clock Disruption and Metabolic Dysfunction
Authors: Jaeger Cassie , Tischkau Shelley A.
Published: August 2016

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome, a clustering of three or more risk factors that include abdominal obesity, increased blood pressure, and high levels of glucose, triglycerides, and high-density lipoproteins, has reached dangerous and costly levels worldwide. Increases in morbidity and mortality result from a combination of factors that promote altered glucose metabolism, insulin resistance, and metabolic dysfunction. Although diet and exercise are commonly touted as important determinants in the development of metabolic dysfunction, other environmental factors, including circadian clock disruption and activation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) by dietary or other environmental sources, must also be considered. AhR binds a range of ligands, which prompts protein–protein interactions with other Per-Arnt-Sim (PAS)-domain-containing proteins and subsequent transcriptional activity. This review focuses on the reciprocal crosstalk between the activated AhR and the molecular circadian clock. AhR exhibits a rhythmic expression and time-dependent sensitivity to activation by AhR agonists. Conversely, AhR activation influences the amplitude and phase of expression of circadian clock genes, hormones, and the behavioral responses of the clock system to changes in environmental illumination. Both the clock and AhR status and activation play significant and underappreciated roles in metabolic homeostasis. This review highlights the state of knowledge regarding how AhR may act together with the circadian clock to influence energy metabolism. Understanding the variety of AhR-dependent mechanisms, including its interactions with the circadian timing system that promote metabolic dysfunction, reveals new targets of interest for maintenance of healthy metabolism.
Autism Spectrum Disorder and Co-occurring Substance Use Disorder – A Systematic Review
Authors: Arnevik Espen Ajo , Helverschou Sissel Berge
Published: August 2016

Objective

Patients with co-occurring autism spectrum disorders (ASD) and substance use disorder (SUD) require special attention from clinical services. Screening for this co-occurrence is not generally an integral part of routine clinical assessments, and failure to identify and understand this group of patients may contribute to a worsening of their symptoms and/or an increase in drug abuse. Thus, there is a need to review the evidence base on patients with co-occurring ASD and SUD in order to enhance clinical practice and future research.

Methods

We reviewed all identified papers on patients with co-occurring ASD and SUD. The focus of the review was on epidemiology, patient characteristics, function of drug use, and the effect of current interventions.

Results

A total of 18 papers were included in the analysis. Eleven papers were based on epidemiological studies, although only one study reported the prevalence of ASD in an SUD population. Two papers explored the role of personality, three papers studied subgroups of individuals serving prison for violent or sexual crimes, and one paper explored the function of drugs in the ASD patient group. There were no studies testing specific treatment interventions.

Conclusions

In most of the treatment settings studied, there were relatively few patients with co-occurring ASD and SUD, but due to differences in study samples it was difficult to establish a general prevalence rate. The one consistent finding was the lack of focused treatment studies. There is clearly a need for research on interventions that take account of the special needs of this patient group.
In-cloud measurements highlight the role of aerosol hygroscopicity in cloud
droplet formation
Authors: Väisänen Olli , Ruuskanen Antti , Ylisirniö Arttu , Miettinen Pasi , Portin Harri , Hao Liqing , Leskinen Ari , Komppula Mika , Romakkaniemi Sami , Lehtinen Kari E. J. , Virtanen Annele
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The relationship between aerosol hygroscopicity and cloud droplet activation was studied at the Puijo measurement station in Kuopio, Finland, during the autumn 2014. The hygroscopic growth of 80, 120 and 150  nm particles was measured at 90 % relative humidity with a hygroscopic tandem differential mobility analyzer. Typically, the growth factor (GF) distributions appeared bimodal with clearly distinguishable peaks around 1.0–1.1 and 1.4–1.6. However, the relative contribution of the two modes appeared highly variable reflecting the probable presence of fresh anthropogenic particle emissions. The hygroscopicity-dependent activation properties were estimated in a case study comprising four separate cloud events with varying characteristics. At 120 and 150 nm, the activation efficiencies within the low- and high-GF modes varied between 0–34 and 57–83 %, respectively, indicating that the less hygroscopic particles remained mostly non-activated, whereas the more hygroscopic mode was predominantly scavenged into cloud droplets. By modifying the measured GF distributions, it was estimated how the cloud droplet concentrations would change if all the particles belonged to the more hygroscopic group. According to κ-Köhler simulations, the cloud droplet concentrations increased up to 70 % when the possible feedback effects on effective peak supersaturation (between 0.16 and 0.29 %) were assumed negligible. This is an indirect but clear illustration of the sensitivity of cloud formation to aerosol chemical composition.
Quantifying the mass loading of particles in an ash cloud remobilised from tephra deposits on Iceland
Authors: Beckett Frances , Kylling Arve , Sigurðardóttir Guðmunda , von Löwis Sibylle , Witham Claire
Published: August 2016

Abstract. On the 16–17 September 2013 strong surface winds over tephra deposits in southern Iceland led to the resuspension and subsequent advection of significant quantities of volcanic ash. The resulting resuspended ash cloud was transported to the south-east over the North Atlantic Ocean and, due to clear skies at the time, was exceptionally well observed in satellite imagery. We use satellite based measurements in combination with radiative transfer and dispersion modelling to quantify the total mass of ash resuspended during this event. Typically ash clouds from explosive eruptions are identified in satellite measurements from a negative Brightness Temperature Difference (BTD) signal, however this technique assumes that the ash resides at high levels in the atmosphere. Due to a temperature inversion in the troposphere over southern Iceland during the 16 September 2013 the resuspended ash cloud was constrained to altitudes of
In-operation Field of view Retrieval (IFR) for satellite and
ground-based DOAS-type instruments applying coincident
high-resolution imager data
Authors: Sihler Holger , Lübcke Peter , Lang Rüdiger , Beirle Steffen , de Graaf Martin , Hörmann Christoph , Lampel Johannes , Penning de Vries Marloes , Remmers Julia , Trollope Ed , Wang Yang , Wagner Thomas
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Knowledge of the field of view (FOV) of a remote sensing instrument is particularly important when interpreting their data and merging them with other spatially referenced data. Especially for instruments in space, information on the actual FOV, which may change during operation, may be difficult to obtain. Also, the FOV of ground-based devices may change during transportation to the field site, where appropriate equipment is absent. This paper presents an independent, simple and robust method to retrieve FOV of an instrument during operation, i. e. the two-dimensional sensitivity distribution, sampled on a discrete grid. The method relies on correlated measurements featuring a significantly higher spatial resolution, e. g. by an imaging instrument accompanying a spectrometer. The method was applied to two satellite instruments, GOME-2 and OMI, and a ground-based differential optical absorption spectroscopy (DOAS) instrument integrated in an SO2-camera. For GOME-2, quadrangular FOVs could be retrieved, which almost perfectly match the provided FOV edges after applying a correction for spatial aliasing inherent to GOME-type instruments. More complex sensitivity distributions were found at certain scanner angles, which are probably caused by degradation of the moving parts within the instrument. For OMI, which does not feature any moving parts, retrieved sensitivity distributions were much smoother compared to GOME-2. A 2D super-Gaussian with six parameters was found to be an appropriate model to describe the retrieved OMI FOV. The comparison with operationally provided FOV dimensions revealed small differences, which could be mostly explained by the limitations of our retrieval. For the ground-based DOAS instrument, the FOV retrieved using SO2-camera data was slightly smaller than the flat-disc distribution, which is assumed by commonly used correlation technique. Differences between both methods may be attributed to spatial inhomogeneities. In general, our results confirm the already deduced FOV distributions of OMI, GOME-2 and the ground-based DOAS. It is certainly applicable for degradation monitoring and verification exercises. For satellite instruments, the gained information is expected to increase the accuracy of combined products, where measurements of different instruments are integrated, e. g. mapping of high-resolution cloud information, incorporation of surface climatologies. For the SO2-camera community, the method presents a new and efficient tool to monitor the DOAS FOV in the field.
Vicarious calibration of S-NPP VIIRS reflective solar M-bands
against MODIS Aqua over dark water scenes
Authors: Sayer A. M. , Hsu N. C. , Bettenhausen C. , Holz R. E. , Lee J. , Quinn G. , Veglio P.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. The Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) is being used to continue the record of Earth Science observations and data products produced routinely from National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) measurements. However, the absolute calibration of VIIRS's reflected solar bands is thought to be biased, leading to offsets in derived data products such as aerosol optical depth (AOD) when similar algorithms are applied to the different sensors. This study presents a vicarious calibration of these VIIRS bands against MODIS Aqua over dark water scenes, finding corrections to VIIRS between approximately +2 % and −7 % (dependent on band) are needed to bring the two into alignment, and indications of relative trending of up to ~ 0.45 % per year in some bands. The derived vicarious gains are also applied in an AOD retrieval, and are shown to decrease the bias and total error in AOD across the midvisible spectral region compared to the standard VIIRS NASA calibration. The resulting bias characteristics are similar to those of NASA MODIS AOD data products, which is encouraging in terms of multisensor data continuity.
Recommendations for processing atmospheric attenuated backscatter profiles
from Vaisala CL31 ceilometers
Authors: Kotthaus Simone , O'Connor Ewan , Münkel Christoph , Charlton-Perez Cristina , Haeffelin Martial , Gabey Andrew M. , Grimmond C. Sue B.
Published: August 2016

Abstract. Ceilometer lidars are used for cloud base height detection, to probe aerosol layers in the atmosphere (e.g. detection of elevated layers of Saharan dust or volcanic ash), and to examine boundary layer dynamics. Sensor optics and acquisition algorithms can strongly influence the observed attenuated backscatter profiles; therefore, physical interpretation of the profiles requires careful application of corrections. This study addresses the widely deployed Vaisala CL31 ceilometer. Attenuated backscatter profiles are studied to evaluate the impact of both the hardware generation and firmware version. In response to this work and discussion within the CL31/TOPROF user community (TOPROF, European COST Action aiming to harmonise ground-based remote sensing networks across Europe), Vaisala released new firmware (versions 1.72 and 2.03) for the CL31 sensors. These firmware versions are tested against previous versions, showing that several artificial features introduced by the data processing have been removed. Hence, it is recommended to use this recent firmware for analysing attenuated backscatter profiles. To allow for consistent processing of historic data, correction procedures have been developed that account for artefacts detected in data collected with older firmware. Furthermore, a procedure is proposed to determine and account for the instrument-related background signal from electronic and optical components. This is necessary for using attenuated backscatter observations from any CL31 ceilometer. Recommendations are made for the processing of attenuated backscatter observed with Vaisala CL31 sensors, including the estimation of noise which is not provided in the standard CL31 output. After taking these aspects into account, attenuated backscatter profiles from Vaisala CL31 ceilometers are considered capable of providing valuable information for a range of applications including atmospheric boundary layer studies, detection of elevated aerosol layers, and model verification.