bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spoof Detection for Finger-Vein Recognition System Using NIR Camera
Authors: Nguyen Dat Tien , Yoon Hyo Sik , Pham Tuyen Danh , Park Kang Ryoung
Published: October 2017

Finger-vein recognition, a new and advanced biometrics recognition method, is attracting the attention of researchers because of its advantages such as high recognition performance and lesser likelihood of theft and inaccuracies occurring on account of skin condition defects. However, as reported by previous researchers, it is possible to attack a finger-vein recognition system by using presentation attack (fake) finger-vein images. As a result, spoof detection, named as presentation attack detection (PAD), is necessary in such recognition systems. Previous attempts to establish PAD methods primarily focused on designing feature extractors by hand (handcrafted feature extractor) based on the observations of the researchers about the difference between real (live) and presentation attack finger-vein images. Therefore, the detection performance was limited. Recently, the deep learning framework has been successfully applied in computer vision and delivered superior results compared to traditional handcrafted methods on various computer vision applications such as image-based face recognition, gender recognition and image classification. In this paper, we propose a PAD method for near-infrared (NIR) camera-based finger-vein recognition system using convolutional neural network (CNN) to enhance the detection ability of previous handcrafted methods. Using the CNN method, we can derive a more suitable feature extractor for PAD than the other handcrafted methods using a training procedure. We further process the extracted image features to enhance the presentation attack finger-vein image detection ability of the CNN method using principal component analysis method (PCA) for dimensionality reduction of feature space and support vector machine (SVM) for classification. Through extensive experimental results, we confirm that our proposed method is adequate for presentation attack finger-vein image detection and it can deliver superior detection results compared to CNN-based methods and other previous handcrafted methods.
A Two-Factor Autoregressive Moving Average Model Based on Fuzzy Fluctuation Logical Relationships
Authors: Guan Shuang , Zhao Aiwu
Published: October 2017

Many of the existing autoregressive moving average (ARMA) forecast models are based on one main factor. In this paper, we proposed a new two-factor first-order ARMA forecast model based on fuzzy fluctuation logical relationships of both a main factor and a secondary factor of a historical training time series. Firstly, we generated a fluctuation time series (FTS) for two factors by calculating the difference of each data point with its previous day, then finding the absolute means of the two FTSs. We then constructed a fuzzy fluctuation time series (FFTS) according to the defined linguistic sets. The next step was establishing fuzzy fluctuation logical relation groups (FFLRGs) for a two-factor first-order autoregressive (AR(1)) model and forecasting the training data with the AR(1) model. Then we built FFLRGs for a two-factor first-order autoregressive moving average (ARMA(1,m)) model. Lastly, we forecasted test data with the ARMA(1,m) model. To illustrate the performance of our model, we used real Taiwan Stock Exchange Capitalization Weighted Stock Index (TAIEX) and Dow Jones datasets as a secondary factor to forecast TAIEX. The experiment results indicate that the proposed two-factor fluctuation ARMA method outperformed the one-factor method based on real historic data. The secondary factor may have some effects on the main factor and thereby impact the forecasting results. Using fuzzified fluctuations rather than fuzzified real data could avoid the influence of extreme values in historic data, which performs negatively while forecasting. To verify the accuracy and effectiveness of the model, we also employed our method to forecast the Shanghai Stock Exchange Composite Index (SHSECI) from 2001 to 2015 and the international gold price from 2000 to 2010.
Removal of Uranium from Contaminated Water by Clay Ceramics in Flow-Through Columns
Authors: Florez Charles , Park Young , Valles-Rosales Delia , Lara Antonio , Rivera Emilio
Published: October 2017

Uranium contamination of groundwater increasingly concerns rural residents depending on home wells for their drinking water in communities where uranium is a source of contamination. Established technologies to clean up contaminated aquifers are ineffective in large contaminated areas or are prohibitively expensive. Permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) are a low-cost alternative to these methods. In this paper, the applicability of clay ceramic pellets was investigated as permeable reactive barriers (PRBs) material for the treatment of uranium-contaminated groundwater. Flow-through columns were fabricated and used to mimic the flow path of a contaminant plume through the reactive media. Experiment results show that clay ceramic pellets effectively remove uranium from uranium-contaminated water and also can be a cost-efficient technique for remediating uranium contaminated groundwater by a clay pellet barrier. Using clay ceramic pellets is also a practical treatment method for uranium removal from drinking water and can supply potable water for households in the affected areas.
ENGINEERING PROPERTIES OF ACRYLIC EMULSION POLYMER MODIFIED BAMBOO REINFORCED CEMENT BONDED COMPOSITES
Authors: AKINYEMI Banjo A. , OMONIYI Temidayo E.
Published: October 2017

In this study, bamboo fibres from Bambusa Vulgaris species were used as reinforcement materials for acrylic emulsion polymer modified concrete to determine their engineering properties and elemental compositions. Moisture absorption, density and percentage voids were investigated as well as the compressive strength, flexural strength and split tensile strength at 28, 45 and 60 days of air curing. Acrylic polymers reduced moisture intake, increased the densities and led to another increase in percentage of voids but composite samples with bamboo fibre inclusions at 1.5% and 10% polymers with 1.5% fibre an 15% polymers showed better physical properties than those with polymers only. Compressive and split tensile strength tests had similar results of optimum strength at 45 days while flexural strength test had optimum value at 60 days of air curing. This showed that the properties of unreinforced concrete could be improved through addition of fibres and polymers for use in structural applications.
Statistical Analysis of Hubble/WFC3 Transit Spectroscopy of Extrasolar Planets
Authors: Fu Guangwei , Deming Drake , Knutson Heather , Madhusudhan Nikku , Mandell Avi , Fraine Jonathan
Published: October 2017

Transmission spectroscopy provides a window to study exoplanetary atmospheres, but that window is fogged by clouds and hazes. Clouds and haze introduce a degeneracy between the strength of gaseous absorption features and planetary physical parameters such as abundances. One way to break that degeneracy is via statistical studies. We collect all published HST/WFC3 transit spectra for 1.1–1.65 μm water vapor absorption and perform a statistical study on potential correlations between the water absorption feature and planetary parameters. We fit the observed spectra with a template calculated for each planet using the Exo-transmit code. We express the magnitude of the water absorption in scale heights, thereby removing the known dependence on temperature, surface gravity, and mean molecular weight. We find that the absorption in scale heights has a positive baseline correlation with planetary equilibrium temperature; our hypothesis is that decreasing cloud condensation with increasing temperature is responsible for this baseline slope. However, the observed sample is also intrinsically degenerate in the sense that equilibrium temperature correlates with planetary mass. We compile the distribution of absorption in scale heights, and we find that this distribution is closer to log-normal than Gaussian. However, we also find that the distribution of equilibrium temperatures for the observed planets is similarly log-normal. This indicates that the absorption values are affected by observational bias, whereby observers have not yet targeted a sufficient sample of the hottest planets.
Décloisonner et « faire passer » des savoirs
Authors: Guenot Marion , Rouge Rémi
Published: October 2017

Cet entretien collectif réalisé par Marion Guenot et Rémi Rouge avec Maxime Cervulle pour les cultural studies, Cornelia Möser pour les études de genre et Arthur Vuattoux pour les études sur les masculinités, revient dans une démarche réflexive sur les différentes dynamiques d’institutionnalisation de trois studies qui connaissent pourtant une certaine filiation, leurs effets sur les carrières et les pratiques de recherche ainsi que sur la portée critique des savoirs qui y circulent.
Effect of Pedicle Fill on Axial Pullout Strength in Spinal Fixation After Rod Reduction
Authors: Albanese Kevin , Ordway Nathaniel R. , Albanese Stephen A. , Lavelle William F.
Published: October 2017

Rod reduction to pedicle screws is used for a variety of spinal fixation procedures; however, it can alter the integrity of the screw-bone interface. The authors investigated the effect of pedicle fill (ratio of pedicle screw diameter to pedicle diameter) on the strength of the screw-bone interface after simulated rod reduction on 17 vertebrae (3 thoracolumbar spine specimens). Pedicle diameter was measured with standard clinical computed tomography scan protocols. The authors determined the minimum pedicle diameter for each level. Polyaxial pedicle screws were surgically placed bilaterally with a freehand technique with standard clinical anatomic landmarks. The pedicle pairs were instrumented with pedicle screws of predetermined diameter, 1 with greater than 80% fill and 1 with less than 80% fill. A simulated reduction maneuver was performed with a 5-mm gap followed by an axial pullout test to assess screw interface strength. Comparison of insertion torque between less than 80% fill and greater than 80% fill did not show significant increases. A significant difference in pullout load (
P
=.043) occurred with greater than 80% fill (791±637 N) compared with less than 80% fill (636±492 N). No significant difference in stiffness was noted (
P
=.154) with pedicle fill of greater than 80% (427±134 N/mm) compared with less than 80% (376±178 N/mm). The current findings support the use of greater than 80% pedicle fill for optimal screw anchoring in pedicle screw-based constructs involving rod reduction. Surgeons should consider placing screws that can safely fill vertebral pedicles, especially at the apex of the curve and the proximal and distal levels of constructs, where excessive forces are imparted to the screws. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(6):e990–e995.]
Biceps Tenodesis: Biomechanical Assessment of 3 Arthroscopic Suprapectoral Techniques
Authors: Vestermark George , Hartigan David , Piasecki Dana , Fleischli James , Odum Susan M. , Zheng Nigel , D'Alessandro Donald F.
Published: October 2017

Biceps tenodesis maintains the cosmetic appearance and length-tension relationship of the biceps with an associated predictable clinical outcome compared with tenotomy. Arthroscopic suprapectoral techniques are being developed to avoid the disadvantages of the open subpectoral approach. This study biomechanically compared 3 arthroscopic suprapectoral biceps tenodesis techniques performed with a suture anchor with lasso loop technique, an interference screw, and a compressive rivet. For a total of 15 randomized paired tests, 15 pairs of human cadaveric shoulders were used to test 1 technique vs another 5 times with 3 customized setups. Biomechanical testing was performed with an electromechanical testing system. The tendon was preloaded with 10 N and cyclically loaded at 0 to 40 N for 50 cycles. Load to failure testing was performed at 1 mm/s until failure occurred. The compressive rivet, interference screw, and suture anchor with lasso loop had mean load to failure of 97.1 N, 146.4 N, and 157.6 N, respectively. The difference in ultimate strength between the suture anchor with lasso loop and the compressive rivet was statistically significant (
P
=.04). No significant differences were found between the suture anchor with lasso loop and the interference screw (
P
=.93) or between the interference screw and the rivet (
P
=.10). When adjusted for sex, the load to failure overall among the 3 constructs was not significantly different. All 3 techniques had a different predominant mechanism of failure. The suture anchor with lasso loop showed superior load to failure compared with the compressive rivet. The minimum load to failure required to achieve clinically reliable biceps tenodesis is unknown. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(6):e1009–e1016.]
Fracture Severity Based on Classification Does Not Predict Outcome Following Proximal Humerus Fracture
Authors: Fisher Nina D. , Barger James M. , Driesman Adam S. , Belayneh Rebekah , Konda Sanjit R. , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: October 2017

This study was conducted to determine whether proximal humerus fracture patterns as defined by the Orthopaedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) classification and the Neer 4-part system predicted functional outcomes for patients treated with open reduction and internal fixation with locked plates and, if so, which system correlated better with outcomes. During a 12-year period, 213 patients with a displaced proximal humerus fracture who underwent surgical treatment with a locking plate at 1 academic institution were prospectively followed. All patients were treated in a similar way and were followed by the operating surgeon at routine intervals. Functional outcomes were measured with the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire. Of these patients, 164 were available for analysis. Functional outcomes based on DASH scores did not differ significantly by Neer system, AO/OTA classification, or varus/valgus humeral head alignment at more than 12 months postoperatively. However, patients with Neer 4-part fracture and AO/OTA type 11-C fracture had worse shoulder range of motion in terms of forward elevation and external rotation. Time to healing and complication rates also were not significantly different based on either classification system. Fracture classification can predict shoulder range of motion 12 months after surgical fixation, but its use is limited in predicting functional outcome scores, time to healing, and complication rates. Patients who undergo surgical repair of a proximal humerus fracture can expect good functional results independent of the initial injury pattern, but more severe fracture patterns may lead to decreased shoulder range of motion. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(6):368–374.]
Promoting Human Flourishing in Aging
Authors: Sorrell Jeanne M.
Published: October 2017

Human flourishing represents a state of mental health in which an individual is actively striving to live well rather than merely feeling good. This concept provides an important context for nurses working with older adults. Flourishing older adults exhibit a sense of personal growth in that they are still evolving and changing. Research suggests that human flourishing is associated with positive outcomes for mental and physical health. Thus, it is important for nurses and other health professionals to help older adults identify and implement strategies that promote flourishing in their later years. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 55
(10), 27–30.]
Design Patterns and Design Quality
Authors: Yu Liguo , Li Yingmei , Ramaswamy Srini
Published: October 2017

Design patterns are reusable software design solutions to object-oriented programs. Since the initial introduction of the 23 well-known design patterns in 1995, more and more patterns have been identified and utilized in the software industry. The benefits of applying design patterns include reducing development cost, improving code quality, and standardizing the integration and maintenance processes. Therefore, using design patterns is becoming a common practice to build both commercial software and open-source products. Although most design patterns are considered creative solutions to some difficult design problems, not all of them are necessarily the best with respect to all different software quality measures, such as program complexity. This paper studies 13 commonly employed design patterns in software industry. First, these 13 patterns are analyzed theoretically about their design complexity in comparison to the conventional solutions. Second, empirical studies are performed on five open-source Java projects to investigate the correlations between design patterns and class structural quality. Finally, these 13 design patterns are evaluated by software programmers who have experience of using all of them. Overall, this study finds that although some design patterns are considered useful, creative, and significant compared to conventional solutions based on user experience, pattern-involved classes are more complex than pattern-free classes, both theoretically and empirically. The authors accordingly recommend a balanced approach to using design patterns: design quality, cost, development time, and product quality should all be considered, when design patterns are utilized.
Big Data
Authors: Kaisler Stephen H. , Money William H. , Armour Frank , Espinosa J. Alberto
Published: October 2017

Big Data refers to data volumes in the range of exabytes (1018th) requiring processing from distributed on-line storage systems with thousands of processors, mainframes or supercomputers where processing speed is measured in GFLOPS. The rate at which data are being collected are accelerating and will approach the zettabyte/year range. Other attributes of Bi Data are also concurrently expanding including variety/variability, velocity, value, and vital concerns for veracity. Storage and data transport technology issues may be solvable in the near-term. However, these communication, quantity management, and processing technologies also represent long-term challenges that require research, paradigms and analytical practices. This paper extends the authors' previous analysis of the issues and challenges with Big Data. It presents a table that contrasts their previous research finding and projects with the state of Big Data today, and their projections of what managers and decision makers will (or should) seek to accomplish as the Big Data universe continues to expand and evolve.
Electrochemical Investigation of Cupric Oxide Grown on Copper Foil via Chemical Bath Deposition
Authors: Espejo E.M.A. , Balela Mary Donnabelle L.
Published: October 2017

Spherical cupric oxide (CuO) was grown on copper (Cu) foil by a facile, low-temperature chemical bath deposition (CBD) under alkaline conditions. This method enables direct contact between the active materials and the cathode which is advantageous for attaining higher capacitance. The Cu products were spherical in shape and have a uniform morphology due to self-assembly and Ostwald ripening. The fabricated CuO exhibit a specific capacitance in the range of 700–800 F/cm2.
Co-Promoted Cu/ZnO Catalysts for Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis
Authors: Akcaboot Piyasak , Kanokpornwasin Napat , Raoarun Monthida , Saiwattanasuk Patraporn , Viravathana Pinsuda
Published: October 2017

Co-promoted Cu/ZnO catalysts were studied for Fischer-Tropsch synthesis (FTS). All catalysts were prepared by the co-precipitation method, having the mass ratio of Co:Cu:Zn=0 (unpromoted), 0.05, 0.5:1:1, and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), including X-ray absorption near edge structure (XANES) and extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS). From XRD and XAS, the results confirmed the phase transformation of CuO to Cu foil and Co3O4 to Co foil in Co-promoted catalysts after reduction. After FTS reaction testing, the Co-promoted catalysts showed the decrease in methanol selectivity of 15 and 1.6% for 0.05Co-Cu/ZnO and 0.5Co-Cu/ZnO, respectively, and the increase in C5-C15 selectivity during 30 h of reaction.
Viscoelastic Materials: Innovation and Development Countenance
Authors: Gharehbaghi Koorosh , Rahmani Farshid
Published: October 2017

While performance and durability are the key features of any Material behavior, the greater the elasticity and flexibility ability the better the functioning capabilities. These Material functioning capabilities not only include improved Load Bearing Capacity (LBC), but also enhanced stress and strain abilities. In addition, these functioning capabilities are dependent on composition of the material, Total Load (TL) and Design specification requirements. A key mechanical behavior of materials is their Viscoelastic ability. While Viscous materials are objects that become deformed via shear and tensile stresses, elastic materials are those that change their shape under stress and strain. Furthermore, Viscoelastic materials are those which portray both elastic characteristics as well as viscous behavior when enduring deformation. This Viscoelastic ability is a critical factor for materials to be effectively Total Load (TL) resistant. Accordingly, this paper will discuss some of the more important Material innovation, and development countenances such as functionality to further demonstrate the overall Viscoelastic behavior.
A Thermosensitive Chitosan Based Hydrogel with Tunable Transmission at Visible Light
Authors: Huang Chih Ling , Chen Yu Bin , Lo Yu Lung
Published: October 2017

Chitosan, β-glycerophosphate, and glycerol are all biocompatible materials for biomedical application. This work successfully developed a thermosensitive hydrogel composed of CS, β-GP and glycerol. The CS/β-GP/glycerol hydrogel can be made as a transparent solution at room temperature and becomes an opaque and turbid hydrogel after heating. The transmission of visible light at different temperature can be measured by a visible micro spectrophotometer combined with a precise temperature control of the demountable liquid cell. A tunable transmission of visible light hydrogel was developed. Moreover, the composition of such hydrogel is safely used and it is potential for biomedical applications.
Improving Forgings Formability by Warm Complexing Processes
Authors: Do The Vinh , Hsu Quang Cherng , Chen Wei Lin , Jian Ying Lun
Published: October 2017

Hand-tool is one of the important products which are widely used in manufacturing industry as well as in human life. The torx is one kind of hand-tools which is considered as a case study in this research. There are two trial preforms designed to analyze their influence on forgings formability. Firstly, DEFORM-3D software was used to simulate and analyze forming processes of different preform shapes for observing the formability of each trial preform and defects during the forming processes. Die stress analysis was also conducted to investigate the die stress of the forming stages in different forming processes. Secondly, according to the formability and the die stress, the most suitable forming processes and preform were selected for actual experiments. Finally, to verify the simulation results accuracy, the feature matching and hardness test were performed. The result of this research show that appropriate forming processes and preform applied improve the quality of product compared to original product.
Study on Interface Formation and Microstructures Evolution of Metal Shear Extrusion Bonding
Authors: Hou Rui Dong , Zhang Shuang Jie , Ma Shi Bo , Yan Hua Jun
Published: October 2017

The static shear extrusion bonding experiment was carried out on the Q345 plates by the solid-state metal joining device with fast shearing. Meanwhile, based on the experimental and theoretical analysis, the influence of shear rate, the press quantity on the interface formation and microstructures evolution mechanism during shear extrusion bonding process were analyzed, and mechanical properties was investigated. The results show that with the increase of the press quantity, the interface formation divides into three stages, and the grain refinement is improved through dynamic recrystallization. The deformation work is provided by the bonding device, which is affected by shear rate. When the press quantity reaches 125%, the tensile strength of the specimens with high shear rate and low rate are 499.56MPa and 500.56MPa, respectively.
Machinability of Inconel 625 Aerospace Material Using Cryogenically Treated WEDM
Authors: Goyal Ashish , Pandey Anand , Sharma Pooja
Published: October 2017

Machinability of aerospace material, Inconel 625 through Wire cut electrical discharge machining has been performed and compared using Taguchi’s Orthogonal L18 (21*35). Normal diffused and cryogenic treated diffused wires are being used as a tool electrode to investigate the effects of machining parameters viz. tool electrode, peak current, pulse on time, pulse off time, wire feed and wire tension on the response MRR. The present study resulted that cryogenic treated tool electrode give better performance in comparison to normal wire electrode assisting in improving stock removal and less electrode wear. Pulse on time and peak current are observed as the most influenced parameter. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) studies has been conducted and presented.
Morphology and Degradation Kinetics of N-Doped TiO2 Nano Particle Synthesized Using Sonochemical Method
Authors: Hidayanto Eko , Sutanto Heri , Mukholit Mukholit , Wibowo Singgih , Irwanto Muhammad
Published: October 2017

Nano particle of N-doped TiO2 with the size of 21.42 nm was successfully created using sonochemical method. Concentration of Nitrogen (N) doping on TiO2 was calculated using mole ratio of Urea and TTiP. Doping variations were performed by doping 5% to 9% N, and did not change the crystallite size and strain. The nanoparticle produced has a polycrystalline structure with a dominant diffraction peak (101). Doping N into TiO2 affects the morphology of particle surface, thus tending to shrink. Results of photo catalysis on liquid samples of MB 20 ppm dye indicate that the addition of N improves the degradation ability of TiO2, with the highest value on sample T5 of 85% and with a rate of degradation kinetics of 0.024 ppm/minute.
Native Joint Propionibacterium Septic Arthritis
Authors: Taylor Thomas , Coe Marcus , Mata-Fink Ana , Zuckerman Richard
Published: October 2017

Propionibacterium species are associated with normal skin flora and cultures may be dismissed as contaminants. They are increasingly recognized as a cause of septic arthritis following shoulder arthroplasty and arthrotomy. We identified three cases of Propionibacterium septic arthritis in native joints mimicking atypical osteoarthritis and review the literature, clinical course, and treatment of 18 cases. Two cases of Propionibacterium acne in native knee joints and one in a sternoclavicular joint are described. A literature search for Propionibacterium septic arthritis was performed. Clinical course, treatment, and outcome are reviewed for all cases. Our three cases were combined with 15 cases from the literature. Fourteen cases showed few signs of acute infection, slow culture growth, and delayed diagnosis. In 3 cases an early culture was dismissed as a contaminant. Six cases were reported as caused by recent arthrocentesis. Fifteen cases were cured with antibiotics, although 5 of these 15 also required surgical intervention. Two patients were diagnosed while undergoing surgery for osteoarthritis. Four patients required arthroplasty and two of our patients will require arthroplasty for good functional results. Propionibacterium as a cause of septic arthritis in native joints demonstrates few signs of acute infection, presents with prolonged course, and is often misdiagnosed or unsuspected. Anaerobic growth may be delayed or missed altogether, and outcomes are consequently poor. Consider Propionibacterium septic arthritis in atypical osteoarthritis prior to arthroplasty.
Perceived effect of climate change on crop production by farmers in Edo state, Nigeria
Authors: Oriakhi L. , Erie G.O , Ekunwe P. A. , Osasogie D. I.
Published: October 2017

The study analyzed farmers’ perception of climate change effect on production and examined the perceived effect of climate change on farmers’ livelihood, Data was collected from 270 farmers sampled from nine Local Government Areas in the three agricultural zones of Edo state. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics involving frequency distribution, percentages and mean, Binomial test and Friedman test were used to test the hypotheses of the study. The result of the analysis showed that most of the respondents were female (52.6%), married (87.8%) and relatively young (mean age 53 years), had formal education (73.7%) and having an average family size of nine. The major crops produced by the respondents were maize (65.6%), cassava (64.4%), melon (49.6%) and yam (47.4%). Weather conditions such as early rainfall (84.44%), late rainfall (62.96%), frequency of rainfall (53.30%), and drought (50%) were seen as unpredictable by respondents. The climate change parameters experienced by the respondents were increase in excessive heat at night (88.15%), flooding (71.11%), incidence of gully erosion (61.85%) and increase in temperature (50%). A major effect of climate change on the farmers’ livelihood was reduction in farm income (mean=3.31), while the most perceived effects of climate change on the farmers production were land slide/erosion of farm (mean = 2.6) and damages to crop (mean = 2.6). The study recommended that weather forecasts and predictions should be made available to the farmers right on time and enlightenment campaign on how to cope with climate change should be embarked upon by members of the Agricultural Development Program.Key words: Binomial test., Climate change., crop production., Friedman test., perception
Prevalence of Fasciolia gigantica in slaughtered cattle in Ado municipal abattoir, Ado Ekiti, Ekiti state, Nigeria.
Authors: Adelabu D. B
Published: October 2017

This study was carried out in the month of February and March 2014 to determine the prevalence and the intensity of Fasciola gigantica infection in slaughtered cattle in Ado municipal abattoir. The abattoir was visited twice in a week; the liver of cattle slaughtered were examined for presence of adult Fasciola gigantica. A total of 475 cattle were examined during the period, out of which eighty-one (17.1%) were positive for presence of Fasciola gigantica with varying levels of intensity. The month of March had the highest infection rate of 22.2% than February which was 12.2%. Males had the highest infection rate in the two months than the females. Statistical analysis revealed that there was no significant difference in the infection in males and females (P> 0.05). This result established the presence of Fasciola gigantica in Ado Ekiti with prevalence rate of 17.1%.Among positive samples (n=81), 27 % (n=22) were light (0-10 flukes), 58 % (n=47) moderate (11=50 flukes), and 14 % (n=12) heavy intensity of infection. Cattle slaughtered at this abattoir are majorly purchased from the northern part of the country. Grazing of these cattle on pasture visited by local flock’s leads to cross infection. Control measures should therefore be instituted, like routine anthelmintic administration and eradication of the snail intermediate host to curtail the spread of the parasite in the area. More surveillance should be mounted by Veterinary officers and public health officers against the disease in slaughtered cattle.Key words: Fasciola gigantica, Cattle, Liver, Abattoir, Ado Ekiti
Soil physical and hydraulic properties modification under Arachis cultivation in the derived savanna agroecological zone of southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Fademi I.O. , Oluwasemire K.O
Published: October 2017

Conservation of soil moisture is one of the major limiting factors to crop production. Improvement of soil physical properties could enhance soil moisture conservation, improve crop productivity and reduce food insecurity in sub Saharan Africa. A field study was carried out to determine the effects of 3 plant densities (33333, 66667 and 83333 plants/ha)on soil properties and water loss through evaporation from soils under 2 cultivars of Arachis hypogaeaL. (SAMNUT 10 and SAMNUT 21) and Arachis pintoi(PINTOI) in Ibadan, south western Nigeria. The experiment was a split plot in randomized complete block design with Arachis varieties as the main plot and plant densitiesas subplot with three replications. Data were collected on daily soil water evaporation, bulk density, saturated hydraulic conductivity, particle size, total porosity and permeability. The Soil was loamy-sand and marked reductions in soil water evaporation were observed in surfaces under Arachis varieties compared to bare soil. Reductions in soil water evaporation were 44.5%, 41.1% and 34.7% under SAMNUT 21, PINTOI and SAMNUT 10 respectively. Significant (p= 0.05) improvement on soil structure and hydraulic conductivity was observed under Arachis varieties. Plant density of 66667 plants/ha showed the best positive effect on the improvement of soil physical structures. The cultivation of SAMNUT 21at 66667 plants/ha and PINTOI at 83333 plants/haalong with other measures of sustainable soil water conservation are recommended.Key words: Arachis species, Plant densities, Evaporation,Soil hydrological properties, Food insecurity.
El desarrollo profesional docente en Educación Superior: agenda, referentes y propuestas para su adopción
Authors: Ruè Domingo Joan
Published: October 2017

El artículo destaca el interés que para las universidades supone el hecho de adoptar una agenda consistente sobre la formación docente universitaria o sobre el desarrollo profesional docente. A partir de un análisis de las nuevas necesidades sociales y productivas se constata la necesidad de ajustar la universidad a un nuevo tipo de demandas, la formativa entre las más importantes puesto que la calidad de la formación se conjuga en términos distintos a los convencionales. Competencias como la reflexión, la iniciativa, la autonomía en el aprendizaje, la creatividad adquieren un nuevo significado en la formación. En este marco, las experiencias de desarrollo profesional en docencia universitaria y de información recogidas tanto de la literatura profesional como en el panorama internacional permiten argumentar sobre el modo cómo articular dicha agenda. Un argumento central es la relación que se establece entre desarrollo profesional docente y la calidad de los aprendizajes de los estudiantes. En este sentido, las evidencias recogidas permiten elaborar una propuesta formativa basada en el doble empoderamiento de profesores e institucional para someter dicha propuesta de agenda a debate. El texto finaliza con las principales recomendaciones extraídas de la investigación y con una propuesta de itinerarios formativos escalonados cuya pretensión es mejorar la profesionalidad docente desde el punto de vista de la mejora de la calidad de los aprendizajes.
Happy Cow: metodología docente para el desarrollo de competencias y habilidades de valoración del bienestar en ganado vacuno
Authors: Alonso de la Varga Marta Elena , Lomillos Pérez Juan Manuel , Cadenas Álvarez Dorian , Molina Díaz Antonio , Rodríguez Villalobos Javier , Safir Jabeen Muhammad Qadir , González Montaña José Ramiro
Published: October 2017

Durante los últimos años la concienciación de los consumidores sobre la importancia del bienestar de los animales destinados a  la  producción  de  alimentos  ha  ido en  creciente  aumento.  Así,  se  han desarrollado  estudios  y  sistemas  para evaluar y controlar la calidad del bienestar principalmente en las especies explotadas en sistemas intensivos y se han publicado protocolos  con  diversos  parámetros  a determinar.  Sin  embargo,  todos  ellos presentan problemas no existiendo una metodología  universalmente  aceptada. Por  ello,  partiendo  de  criterios  y parámetros basados en el animal y en los  alojamientos  y  manejo  utilizados en  protocolos  existentes  y  en  otros considerados importantes para la salud y el de bienestar de las vacas de leche por profesores de los Dpts. de Producción Animal y de Medicina, Cirugía y Anatomía Veterinaria de la Facultad de Veterinaria de León, se ha desarrollado un programa de software libre (Happy Cow) por parte de alumnos de la Escuela de Ingenierías Industrial e Informática de la ULE, que permite alcanzar un doble objetivo, ser una herramienta docente para que los alumnos  desarrollen  competencias  y habilidades necesarias para la evaluación del bienestar animal usando parámetros basados  en  los  animales  y  en  las instalaciones, y mejorar el bienestar de los  animales  en  la  granja,  detectando los  puntos  críticos  y  aspectos  más deficientes, proporcionando información y recomendaciones a cada productor a partir de las evaluaciones realizadas en su granja.
 
Interview to Dr Ana M. Bravo del Moral
Authors: Wapenaar Wendela
Published: October 2017

Dr Wendela Wapenaar interviews Dr Ana M. Bravo del Moral, President of the European Association of Establishments for Veterinary Education (EAEVE).

 
Presidencialismo y Revocatoria de mandato presidencial en América Latina
Authors: Serrafero Mario Daniel , Eberhardt Maria Laura
Published: October 2017

La revocatoria de mandato es un mecanismo de participación y control ciudadano enmarcado principalmente en la tercera ola de la democratización y las reformas políticas y constitucionales de los ´90 en Latinoamérica. Forma parte de las innovaciones incorporadas por los gobernantes como respuesta a la crisis de representación. Su adopción abre interrogantes más profundos sobre: la metamorfosis de la representación moderna (un cierto acercamiento al “mandato imperativo”), las transformaciones del régimen presidencial (flexibilización, cuasi-parlamentarización), las nuevas formas de caídas presidenciales y de resolución de crisis, y la democratización del gobierno (al habilitarse otra instancia de votación orientada a la destitución de funcionarios electos). En tal sentido, el trabajo tiene dos objetivos: analizar conceptualmente la revocatoria de mandato y, específicamente, la revocatoria presidencial (existente sólo en Venezuela, Bolivia y Ecuador); y vincular a este mecanismo con el debate sobre el presidencialismo latinoamericano (pues se considera que produce modificaciones potenciales en el sistema presidencial), con la teoría de los tipos de sucesión constitucional y con la teoría de las interrupciones presidenciales (ya que la revocatoria constituye otro de los dispositivos de destitución disponibles en casos de crisis institucionales). Se trata, por tanto, de un estudio teórico que pretende conceptualizar un tipo determinado de revocatoria de mandato y enlazarlo con otros desarrollos teóricos de los cuales ha estado ausente. Ésas y otras implicancias, teóricas y de ingeniería institucional, motivan este artículo, para dilucidar las potencialidades y los efectos directos e indirectos que la incorporación de este mecanismo plantea para las democracias presidenciales latinoamericanas.
El final de la historia a la luz de la utopía política. Entre Fukuyama y Jameson
Authors: Martorell Campos Francisco
Published: October 2017

En este artículo voy a interpretar el significado del final de la historia decretado de manera dispar por Fukuyama y Jameson desde el ángulo de la utopía política moderna. A partir de cuantiosos fragmentos procedentes de novelas utópicas, mostrare como las sociedades ideales imaginadas durante la modernidad tuvieron por cimiento el final de la historia, incidencia que se plasmaba en la propagación de una temporalidad circunscrita al presente. Analizando con la ayuda de la bibliografía filosófica y sociólogica adecuada los fenómenos actuales relativos al ethos posthistórico, mostrare como nuestros días se encuentran a merced de patrones temporales muy semejantes. La conclusión principal a la que apuntan los dos grandes bloques de mi indagación es que la postmodernidad, descrita tantas veces como la etapa donde la utopía fenece, exhibe en lo tocante a la temporalidad rasgos que en el pasado reciente se consideraban utópicos (o por ello mismo distópicos, según la tradición orwelliana). Tal paradoja informa de las continuidades y rupturas existentes entre lo moderno y lo postmoderno. Además, comporta que la renovación de la utopía pasa necesariamente por abandonar el proyecto de clausurar la historia.
Some Issues in the Measurement of Profit Accountants versus Economists
Authors: Hasan Zubair
Published: October 2017

This paper discusses a topic rarely addressed in the literature on profit theory over the decades. In empirical work on subjects like growth, efficiency and welfare in mainstream or Islamic economics business profits at times appear as one of the determinants. Such studies perforce use profit data reported in the accounting records. This data is invariably at variance in important ways with the economists’ theoretical view of profit. The cause of divergence is the cosmopolitan forward looking ex ante view of entrepreneurism the economists take in the matter as opposed to the narrow conservative ex post focus of the accountants needed to protect the interest of business proprietors who pay them for the job. There is a need to narrow this gap to improve the results of empirical explorations. This paper identifies and examines some issues like maintenance of capital, evaluation of inventories and the impact of conservatism as causes of divergence as focal points for reducing the gap. It concludes that the economists are obliged more to take cognizance of accounting compulsions than the other way round in the reconciliation process.
Multifaceted aseptic protocol decreases surgical site infections following hip arthroplasty
Authors: Harold Ryan E. , Butler Bennet A. , Lamplot Joseph , Luu Hue H. , Lawton Cort D. , Manning David
Published: October 2017

Introduction:

We investigate the effectiveness of a comprehensive aseptic protocol in reducing surgical site infection (SSI) after hip arthroplasty in a single medical centre with a high prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Methods:

A prospectively collected database of all patients undergoing hip arthroplasty in a single centre between 2005 and 2011 was reviewed for SSI using Centers for Disease Control (CDC) criteria and AAOS guidelines. All patients were administered an aseptic protocol consisting of: preoperative 2% mupirocin nasal ointment and 0.4% chlorhexidine surgical-site wipes; modified instrument care; perioperative prophylactic vancomycin and cefazolin; and surgical-site skin preparation with chlorhexidine, alcohol and iodophor. We compare our protocol hip arthroplasty SSI rate to our institutional historical control and to contemporary literature.

Results:

Among 774 patients, 69% were ASA>2, 45% had BMI≥30 and 10.3% had rheumatoid arthritis. We found an overall 0.39% infection rate; significantly lower than our institutional historical control (0.39% vs. 2.60%, p<0.001, OR 0.15, NNT 200) and significantly lower than 6 published reports (p<0.001-0.022, OR 0.16-0.22). Compared to these cohorts, significantly more of our patients were ASA>2, had BMI≥30 or had rheumatoid arthritis. Patients with 3 or more identifiable risk factors were at an increased risk of SSI compared to those with 2 or fewer risk factors.

Conclusions:

Our aseptic protocol decreases SSI in a high-risk population undergoing hip arthroplasty in a medical centre and community with a high prevalence of MRSA.
Additive manufacturing of titanium alloys in the biomedical field: processes, properties and applications
Authors: Trevisan Francesco , Calignano Flaviana , Aversa Alberta , Marchese Giulio , Lombardi Mariangela , Biamino Sara , Ugues Daniele , Manfredi Diego
Published: October 2017

The mechanical properties and biocompatibility of titanium alloy medical devices and implants produced by additive manufacturing (AM) technologies – in particular, selective laser melting (SLM), electron beam melting (EBM) and laser metal deposition (LMD) – have been investigated by several researchers demonstrating how these innovative processes are able to fulfil medical requirements for clinical applications. This work reviews the advantages given by these technologies, which include the possibility to create porous complex structures to improve osseointegration and mechanical properties (best match with the modulus of elasticity of local bone), to lower processing costs, to produce custom-made implants according to the data for the patient acquired via computed tomography and to reduce waste.
Abundancia
Authors: Sánchez José Javier
Published: October 2017

La expresión del arte moderno en Nicaragua En las pinturas de José Javier Sánchez se siente la voluntad firme de expresar sus orígenes ancestrales americanos; el rechazo a las soluciones estéticas occidentales que conoció y estudió en sus viajes y estadías por América y especialmente Europa.Los cambios en su obra, esta última década, han sido más formales que conceptuales, siendo su temática y colorido lo que más la caracteriza. Es notoria la influencia del arte primitivo americano: figuras humanas, deidades, ídolos, fauna y flora, todo entrelazado en una jungla de líneas, franjas, fondos y formas de colores arcillosos, rojizos y negros, que recuerdan el rojo Tagüe y otros colores usados en las cerámicas precolombinas nicaragüenses… Alejandro ArósteguiArtista plástico nicaragüense1 septiembre, 2010Publicado en El Nuevo Diario
Desastres naturales en Nicaragua
Authors: Wheelock Román Jaime
Published: October 2017

Este libro surge con el propósito de complementar las iniciativas públicas destinadas a crear conciencia y ofrecer a la población nicaragüense un conjunto de acciones útiles para reducir la vulnerabilidad antes que el daño potencial sobrevenga. Es una iniciativa del Instituto para el Desarrollo y la Democracia (IPADE), respaldada por Diakonia de Suecia dentro de un programa más general en la prevención del riesgo frente a los desastres.
Prólogo No.20(1)
Authors: Hooker Blandford Alta Suzzane
Published: October 2017

Este volumen No. 20, presenta una compilación estructurada en 5 secciones, las cuales comprenden 9 artículos, en el área de Educación: Estrategias de evaluación en la enseñanza de los algoritmos de factorización en noveno grado de Educación Secundaria. La segunda sección, en Ciencias Sociales: 2) Alianza estratégica entre Venezuela y Nicaragua para la construcción de una refinería petrolera; 3) Breves consideraciones sobre el código aduanero del MERCOSUR (CAM). Fuentes y antecedentes de creación; 4. Plan de Desarrollo Municipal como herramienta de gestión pública de la ciudad de Siuna, Costa Caribe Norte de Nicaragua. En la tercera sección, Salud: 5) Hombres creole y cáncer de próstata en Bluefields, Costa Caribe Sur de Nicaragua. En la cuarta sección, Recursos Naturales y Medio Ambiente: 6) Calidad del agua potable y su efecto en la salud de la comunidad de Kamla, Costa Caribe Norte de Nicaragua; 7) Gobernanza forestal en el territorio Twi Waupasa, Costa Caribe Norte de Nicaragua. En la quinta sección, Agropecuaria: 8) Germinación del coco (Cocos nucifera), utilizando tres tipos de cortes en Sandy Bay Sirpi, Costa Caribe Sur de Nicaragua; 9) Manejo de pastizales en sistemas de producción ganaderos de Nueva Guinea, Costa Caribe Sur de Nicaragua  Los resultados de estas investigaciones aportan significativamente a la praxis in- novadora de la comunidad universitaria, y constituyen un medio educativo y de comunicación para compartir con la comunidad de profesores, investigadores y estudiantes del mundo, en una expresión crítica, autónoma y de emancipación en un ambiente de interculturalidad.