bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on an Adaptive Co-Evolutionary ACO Algorithm for Complex Optimization Problems
Authors: Zhao Huimin , Gao Weitong , Deng Wu , Sun Meng
Published: April 2018

The ant colony optimization (ACO) algorithm has the characteristics of positive feedback, essential parallelism, and global convergence, but it has the shortcomings of premature convergence and slow convergence speed. The co-evolutionary algorithm (CEA) emphasizes the existing interaction among different sub-populations, but it is overly formal, and does not form a very strict and unified definition. Therefore, a new adaptive co-evolutionary ant colony optimization (SCEACO) algorithm based on the complementary advantages and hybrid mechanism is proposed in this paper. Firstly, the pheromone update formula is improved and the pheromone range of the ACO algorithm is limited in order to achieve the adaptive update of the pheromone. The elitist strategy and co-evolutionary idea are used for reference, the symbiotic mechanism and hybrid mechanism are introduced to better utilize the advantages of the CEA and ACO. Then the multi-objective optimization problem is divided into several sub-problems, each sub-problem corresponds to one population. Each ant colony is divided into multiple sub-populations in a common search space, and each sub-population performs the search activity and pheromone updating strategy. The elitist strategy is used to retain the elitist individuals within the population and the min-max ant strategy is used to set pheromone concentration for each path. Next, the selection, crossover, and mutation operations of individuals are introduced to adaptively adjust the parameters and implement the information sharing of the population and the co-evolution. Finally, the gate assignment problem of a hub airport is selected to verify the optimization performance of the SCEACO algorithm. The experiment results show that the SCEACO algorithm can effectively solve the gate assignment problem of a hub airport and obtain the effective assignment result. The SCEACO algorithm improves the convergence speed, and enhances the local search ability and global search capability.
Melioidosis in Bangladesh: A Clinical and Epidemiological Analysis of Culture-Confirmed Cases
Authors: Chowdhury Fazle , Jilani Md. Shariful , Barai Lovely , Rahman Tanjila , Saha Mili , Amin Md. Robed , Fatema Kaniz , Islam K. , Faiz M. , Dunachie Susanna , Dance David
Published: April 2018

Melioidosis is known to occur in Bangladesh, but there are few reports about the condition in the published international literature. We set out to review all known cases of melioidosis in the country to date, using both retrospective and prospective data. A web-based literature search was conducted to identify all published case reports, original articles and conference abstracts. Cases were also included from a prospective study conducted in 2017. Fifty-one cases were identified between 1961 and 2017. Cases have been reported from sixteen out of the 64 districts of Bangladesh. The median age of the patients at presentation was 45 years (IQR 37–52), with a significant male (77%) predominance. Many patients (14/39; 36%) were farmers and 83% had diabetes mellitus. A skin/soft tissue abscess was the most common primary clinical presentation (13/49; 27%), followed by septic arthritis (10/49; 20%), pneumonia, and a deep-seated abscess/organ abscess (7/49; 14%). The major challenges to the diagnosis and treatment of melioidosis in Bangladesh are the lack of resources and the lack of awareness of melioidosis. Capacity development programs are urgently required to define the burden of disease and to tackle the mortality rates.
Glycosylation of Hemagglutinin and Neuraminidase of Influenza A Virus as Signature for Ecological Spillover and Adaptation among Influenza Reservoirs
Authors: Kim Paul , Jang Yo , Kwon Soon , Lee Chung , Han Gyoonhee , Seong Baik
Published: April 2018

Glycosylation of the hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) of the influenza provides crucial means for immune evasion and viral fitness in a host population. However, the time-dependent dynamics of each glycosylation sites have not been addressed. We monitored the potential N-linked glycosylation (NLG) sites of over 10,000 HA and NA of H1N1 subtype isolated from human, avian, and swine species over the past century. The results show a shift in glycosylation sites as a hallmark of 1918 and 2009 pandemics, and also for the 1976 “abortive pandemic”. Co-segregation of particular glycosylation sites was identified as a characteristic of zoonotic transmission from animal reservoirs, and interestingly, of “reverse zoonosis” of human viruses into swine populations as well. After the 2009 pandemic, recent isolates accrued glycosylation at canonical sites in HA, reflecting gradual seasonal adaptation, and a novel glycosylation in NA as an independent signature for adaptation among humans. Structural predictions indicated a remarkably pleiotropic influence of glycans on multiple HA epitopes for immune evasion, without sacrificing the receptor binding of HA or the activity of NA. The results provided the rationale for establishing the ecological niche of influenza viruses among the reservoir and could be implemented for influenza surveillance and improving pandemic preparedness.
Analysis of the Long-term Precipitation Trend in Illinois and Its Implications for Agricultural Production
Authors: Dahal Vaskar , Gautam Sudip , Bhattarai Rabin
Published: April 2018

Climate change is expected to modify the hydrological cycle resulting in a change in the amount, frequency, and intensity of surface precipitation. How the future hydrological pattern will look is uncertain. Climate change is expected to bring about intense periods of dryness and wetness, and such behavior is expected to be difficult to predict. Such uncertainty does not bode well for the agricultural systems of the United States (US) Midwest that are reliant on natural precipitation systems. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze the behavior of precipitation during the cropping period. The manifestation of global-warming-related changes has already been reported for the last couple of decades and more so in the current decade. Thus, precipitation data from the recent past can provide vital information on what is about to come. In this study, the precipitation data of Illinois, a Midwestern state of the US with rain-fed agriculture, was analyzed with a focus on the climate dynamics during the cropping period. It was observed that even though there has been some increase in the annual precipitation amount (+1.84 mm/year) due to the increase in precipitation frequency and intensity, such change happened outside of the cropping period, thereby ensuring that climate change has not manifested itself during the cropping period.
Public Awareness of Drinking Water Safety and Contamination Accidents: A Case Study in Hainan Province, China
Authors: Wang Li , Zhang Lan , Lv Jia , Zhang Yawei , Ye Bixiong
Published: April 2018

To understand public awareness about drinking water safety and water contamination accidents in rural areas of China, two rural counties of Hainan Province were selected as pilot sites for investigation. We explored the degree of public satisfaction with drinking water quality, public trust of drinking water safety, and public awareness about drinking water problems and solutions. The results showed that 80.3% of respondents were satisfied with the quality of their drinking water. About 78.8% of respondents paid special attention or comparatively high attention to drinking water quality and contamination accidents, especially regarding potential damage to the human body and health, the influence scope, and the causes of accidents. A total 52.4% of respondents solved drinking water problems by themselves; few respondents complained to the health department or called the local telephone hotline. Age and sex did not play significant roles in the degree of public satisfaction with water quality or in the public perception of water pollution accidents; however, residents in rural areas within a drinking water quality monitoring network were more satisfied with their drinking water quality and more aware of drinking water contamination accidents than in areas outside of such a network. Respondents with higher education levels had greater awareness than those with lower education levels with respect to water quality and water pollution accidents.
Elevated Hepatic CD1d Levels Coincide with Invariant NKT Cell Defects in Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Tan Xiaosheng , Ding Yajie , Zhu Peng , Dou Rui , Liang Zhihui , Yang Daofeng , Huang Zhiyong , Wang Wei , Wu Xiongwen , Weng Xiufang
Published: April 2018

Activation of invariant NKT (iNKT) cells manifests antiviral immune responses in vivo. However, clinical trials have failed to show consistent hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA reduction postadministration of iNKT cell–specific agonist α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer). In this study, we aimed to investigate HBV infection–related iNKT cell defects and explore iNKT cell–based therapeutic potential for chronic hepatitis B (CHB). Liver specimens from 30 HBV-infected hepatocellular carcinoma patients were collected for CD1d/hepatitis B surface Ag (HBsAg) staining and/or intrahepatic iNKT cell assay. Two hundred and six chronic HBV-infected patients (including 130 CHB patients) were enrolled in the study of circulating iNKT cell frequency and function. We found that liver and hepatoma tissue that positively stained for HBsAg had higher CD1d expression as compared with HBsAg negatively stained counterparts. The elevated CD1d expression in infected tissue is supposed to facilitate the iNKT cell–based antiviral effects locally. However, iNKT cell defects that related with disease progression suggested iNKT cells attenuated their effects during chronic HBV infection. The residual iNKT cells in CHB patients showed aberrant activation and hyporesponsiveness to α-GalCer. Exogenous IL-2 fully rescued α-GalCer–induced expansion of iNKT cells from CHB patients, and synergistic effects of IL-2 and IL-15 helped to recover the CD1d-dependent IFN-γ production. In conclusion, our results highlight the increased CD1d expression in HBV-infected liver and differential iNKT cell defects associated with disease progression during chronic HBV infection. The reversibility of iNKT cell defects suggests protective immune responses could be partially recovered in CHB.
Analysis of the causes of the seizure and destruction of carcasses and organs in a slaughterhouse in central Italy in the 2010-2016 period
Authors: Ceccarelli Margherita , Leprini Elisa , Sechi Paola , Iulietto Maria Francesca , Grispoldi Luca , Goretti Enzo , Cenci-Goga Beniamino Terzo
Published: April 2018

Meat safety and hygiene are fundamental issues for producers and endusers. To achieve these goals, the inspection of carcasses and organs at slaughter is critical. The results of post-mortem inspection are the basis for planning preventive measures against consumer risks and for limiting economic losses. In this retrospective study, the causes of the seizure and destruction of carcasses and organs were analysed at a slaughterhouse in central Italy from 2010 to 2016. 436,646 slaughtered animals were taken into consideration, for a total of 61,799 seizures (73.29% pigs, 23.87% cattle, 2.77% sheep and 0.07% horses). The organs or groups of organs that most frequently showed lesions in pigs were liver (72.38%), heart (10.77%) and pluck (10.20%); in cattle, lungs (64.86%), liver (31.20%) and stomachs (11.63%); in sheep, liver (77.15%), pluck (18.70%) and lung (3.80%); in horses, liver (75.56%), kidney (68.89%) and lung (31.11%). Among the diagnoses, parasitic diseases of the liver (ascariasis and distomatosis) were especially frequent in all species, followed by pericarditis and polyserositis in pigs and diseases affecting the respiratory system in cattle. The data obtained show that post-mortem inspection is of fundamental importance for limiting risks for the consumer and ensuring meat safety. It is also evident, even more than ten years after the coming into force of the so-called hygiene package regulations, that the slaughterhouse can still act as an epidemiological observatory to provide the data needed for the development of plans for the control and eradication of the most frequent diseases in the area.
Retrospective study on the hygienic quality of fresh ricotta cheeses produced in Sicily, Italy
Authors: Scatassa Maria Luisa , Mancuso Isabella , Sciortino Sonia , Macaluso Giusi , Palmeri Marisa , Arcuri Luigi , Todaro Massimo , Cardamone Cinzia
Published: April 2018

The present work was carried out to investigate the microbiological profile of Sicilian ewes’ ricotta cheeses during fifteen years of investigations (2002-2016). The samples were collected between those conferred to the Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Sicilia (IZSSi) Adelmo Mirri, Palermo (Italy), by the competent authority during official control, by food business operator in HACCP systems and in research projects. Enterobacteriaceae, Escherichia coli and coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS) were found only in some samples. Bacillus cereus was detected in c.a. 16% of samples but the level of contaminations did not reach the threshold that leads to significant toxin production. Pathogenic bacteria such as Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella spp. and Brucella spp. were never detected. Furthermore, a total of 47 of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) strains were identified at species level by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene, resulting in the identification of 10 species belonging to four genera Enterococcus, Lactobacillus, Lactococcus and Leuconostoc, commonly employed as starter and non starter cultures in different traditional cheese. Results of this study highlighted an improvement of the hygienic conditions of the Sicilian ewes’ ricotta cheeses during the last ten years of investigation. This observation was confirmed from reduction of undesired microorganisms such as Enterobacteriaceae, E.coli and CPS, used to define the process hygiene criteria. However, in order to improve the final quality of this product are needed further strategy such as the dairy makers training, with the aim to apply a good hygienic practices during the production.
Quality assessment of Zeus faber (Peter’s fish) ovaries regularly commercialized for human consumption
Authors: Giarratana Filippo , Ziino Graziella , D'Andrea Valerio , Panebianco Antonio , Giuffrida Alessandro
Published: April 2018

n the last few years, the consumption of fish eggs has increased rapidly, finding widespread use also in mass catering. This increase has involved also those of the Peter’s fish (Zeus faber). Females of this species, by their reproductive characteristics, have highly developed gonads in different periods of the year, making the raw material easy to find. The aim of the present study was to perform a quality assessment of Zeus faber ovaries regularly commercialized for human consumption. A total number of 34 samples, divided in fresh (11) and frozen (23), were processed for microbiological characterization, parasitological and histological evaluations. Fresh and frozen samples have significant (P<0.01) differences in total bacterial charge, with values of 4.75±0.5 Log CFU/g and 3.65±0.7 Log CFU/g respectively. The mean value of Enterobacteriaceae was 2.58±0.7 Log CFU/g in fresh products, while 52.17% (12) of frozen samples reported loads of <1 Log CFU/g. No Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes were found. Aeromonas spp. was detected in two frozen sample (with loads of 2.2 and <1 Log CFU/g) and in 5 fresh ovaries with value ranged from 1.70 to 3.48 Log CFU/g. Vibrio spp. was found in 4 (36.36%) and 3 (13.04%) of fresh and frozen samples respectively, with loads always <1 Log CFU/g. All 31 Vibrio strains isolated, were identified as Vibrio alginolyticus, and 61.29% (19) of them was positive for the ToxRS factor and 6.45% (2) for ToxR. The 47.06% (16) of total samples showed infestations by larvae of Anisakis Type 1 in the serous and inside the ovary. In this last case, histologically it was found to be free larvae. This study attested satisfactory hygiene conditions for Zeus faber ovaries currently marked for human consumption. The presence of potentially pathogenic strains of V. alginolyticus and Aeromonas spp., but above all the frequent infestation by Anisakis larvae, represent a potentially hazard for the consumer.
High microbial loads found in minimally-processed sliced mushrooms from Italian market
Authors: Jiang Haiyang , Miraglia Dino , Ranucci David , Donnini Domizia , Roila Rossana , Branciari Raffaella , Li Cheng
Published: April 2018

There is an increased consumer interest in minimally processed vegetables that has led to the development of products, such as pre-cut sliced mushrooms. Few data are available on the hygienic condition and the presence of foodborne pathogens in such products. Therefore, the current study aimed to evaluate the safety and hygienic characteristics of both ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook, pre-cut sliced mushrooms obtained from a local Italian market. For the evaluation of the hygienic condition, the aerobic mesophilic bacteria, aerobic psychrotrophic bacteria and Escherichia coli enumerations were performed. Salmonella spp., Listeria monocytogenes and Campylobacter spp. were considered in the assessment of the foodborne pathogens. High microbial loads were detected, including counts higher than 5 log CFU/g for E. coli and 6 log CFU/g for the other bacteria counts considered, but no pathogens were found. Ready-to-eat and ready-to-cook products differed only for aerobic mesophilic counts (7.87 and 8.26 log CFU/g, respectively, P=0.003). Strategies to enhance the hygienic level of the mushrooms, particularly the ready-to-eat products, are needed.
Access to energy sources in the face of climate change: Challenges faced by women in rural communities
Authors: Ketlhoilwe Mphemelang J. , Kanene Kennedy M.
Published: April 2018

Access to energy is a challenge to rural communities, especially among women who are the prime household energy users. This article is based on research carried out in the Tswapong villages in Botswana where energy sources particularly wood, are slowly getting depleted while electricity connection costs remain unaffordable for the poor. The article provides constructivist analysis of experiences in real-life situations among women. Data were generated through observations, documents analysis, interviews and focus group discussions. It has emerged from the research that majority of the respondents use firewood as energy source. Firewood and gas are mainly used for cooking while electricity is mainly used for lighting. The demand for firewood has led to firewood commercialisation, the depletion of preferred firewood tree species and increase in the impact of climate change. The article recommends economic diversification and subsidies to empower the majority of the rural poor to connect to the national electric grid and reduce on firewood dependence. These could be complemented by harnessing of solar energy and low-cost, energy-saving technologies. Subsidies to enable women access to energy services would contribute immensely to the decade of Sustainable Energy for All and to the attainment of the post 2015 sustainable development goal on energy.
Does Metabolic Syndrome Determine Severity and Disability of Chronic Low Backache?
Authors: Kalita Jayantee , Sonkar Kamlesh Kumar , Misra Usha Kant , Bhoi Sanjeev K.
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Obesity may be associated with more severe and disabling low backache (LBA) due to alteration in biomechanics, but there are no such studies from developing countries. Aims: We report the frequency of metabolic syndrome (MS) in chronic LBA (CLBA) and its association with severity and disability of CLBA. Subjects and Methods: Consecutive patients with CLBA attending to the neurology service from October 2015 to February 2016 were included in the study. Clinical and demographic parameters were recorded. Routine biochemical test was done. The severity of pain was assessed by a 0–10 Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and disability by Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) version 2. Comparison of variables was done by Chi-square or independent t-test and correlation by Karl Pearson or Spearman's rank correlation test. Results: Seventy-none (39.3%) patients had MS as per the International Diabetic Federation (IDF) criteria and 68 (33.8%) as per the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Abdominal obesity was the most common (171 [85.1%]) feature of MS. The patients with MS had longer duration of sitting work and did less frequently exercise. The NRS score (6.95 ± 1.06 vs. 6.65 ± 0.95; P = 0.04) and ODI score (54.91 ± 8.42 vs. 51.89 ± 8.54; P = 0.01) were higher in CLBA patients with MS compared to those without MS. Conclusion: About 40% patients with CLBA have metabolic syndrome, and they have more severe pain and disability.
Dihydroergotamine Complicating Reversible Cerebral Vasoconstriction Syndrome in Status Migrainosus
Authors: Mullaguri Naresh , Hepburn Madihah , Newey Christopher Ryan , Nattanmai Premkumar Chandrasekharan
Published: April 2018

Reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome (RCVS) is a clinicoradiological syndrome that occurs due to dysfunction of cerebrovascular autoregulation. It is characterized by recurrent thunderclap headache from cerebral vasoconstriction which can cause ischemic infarction, spontaneous intraparenchymal and subarachnoid hemorrhage. This syndrome can be triggered by a variety of etiologies including medications, infectious, and inflammatory conditions. The diagnosis is often delayed due to unawareness among the health-care providers and delayed neuroimaging evidence of vasoconstriction with or without ischemic and/or hemorrhagic infarction. Status migrainosus is a prevalent condition requiring emergency room visits and inpatient admission. Thus, patients with RCVS can be easily misdiagnosed with migraine. We report a patient with RCVS misdiagnosed as status migrainosus with visual aura, treated with intravenous dihydroergotamine with worsening of cerebral vasoconstriction and lead to ischemic and hemorrhagic complications. We discuss this complication and provide guidance on differentiating between migraine and RCVS.
Practical consensus recommendations regarding role of mastectomy in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Somsekhar S. P. , Geeta K. , Jain R. , Nayyer R. , Halder S. , Malik V. K. , Parikh Purvish , Aggarwal S. , Koul R.
Published: April 2018

Whether to recommend mastectomy in metastatic disease or not has been a matter of debate. Is local therapy, such as mastectomy, of any benefit in advanced breast cancer is the main question. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at these practical consensus recommendations for the benefit of community oncologists.
Practical consensus recommendations regarding role of postmastectomy radiation therapy
Authors: Singh D. , Saini G. , Koul R. , Gupta V. , Abrol D. , De S. , Kulshrestha P. , Hukku S. N. , Lakshmi S. J. , Parikh Purvish M. , Aggarwal S.
Published: April 2018

The use of radiation therapy after mastectomy (PMRT) has been limited to those patients who are at significant risk of cancer recurring in the chest wall or in the nodal basins. The use of PMRT has been widely accepted for patients with four or more positive lymph nodes, [1],[2] but there is still controversy regarding the value of PMRT for those with one to three positive nodes. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at these practical consensus recommendations for the benefit of community oncologists.
Practical consensus recommendations on fertility preservation in patients with breast cancer
Authors: Bajpai Jyoti , Majumdar A. , Satwik R. , Rohatgi N. , Jain V. , Gupta D. , Agarwal R. , Mittal S. , Verma S. K. , Parikh P. M. , Aggarwal S.
Published: April 2018

Young women diagnosed with cancer today have a greater chance of long-term survival than ever before. Successful survivorship for this group of patients includes maintaining a high quality of life after a cancer diagnosis and treatment; however, lifesaving treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can impact survivors by impairing reproductive and endocrine health. Expert oncologists along with reproductive medicine specialists discuss fertility preservation options in this chapter since fertility preservation is becoming a priority for young women with breast cancer. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at these practical consensus recommendations for the benefit of community oncologists.
Practical consensus recommendations regarding the management of sentinel lymph node issues in early breast cancer
Authors: Kabra Vedant , Aggarwal R. , Vardhan S. , Singh M. , Khandelwal R. , Jain S. , Sahani S. , Saini S. , Deo N. , Kaul R. , Parikh P. M. , Aggarwal S.
Published: April 2018

Axillary lymph node involvement is a very important poor prognostic factor in the clinical staging and management of breast cancer patients. Traditionally, axillary lymph node dissection (ALND) has been used for determining the status of the axillary lymph nodes. More recently the sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) procedure has gained wider acceptance as the standard of care, having the advantage of being less invasivewhile providing good accuracy. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at these practical consensus recommendations in regards with the use of the two different procedures and other issues in patients with early breast cancer for the benefit of community oncologists.
Practical consensus recommendations on duration of adjuvant hormonal therapy in breast cancer
Authors: Gupta S. , Singh M. , Vora Amish , Babu G. , Walia M. , Nautial V. , Saha R. , Smruti B. K. , Sharma J. B. , Koul R. , Parikh Purvish M. , Aggarwal S.
Published: April 2018

Optimization of adjuvant systemic therapy in women with early-stage hormone receptor-positive breast cancer includes the consideration of chemotherapy and duration of hormone therapy. Adjuvant hormonal therapy significantly improves long-term survival of breast cancer patients with hormone receptor-positive disease. Despite the proven clinical efficacy of tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors, many breast cancer survivors either fail to take the correct dosage at the prescribed frequency (adherence) or discontinue therapy (persistence). Expert oncologist discussed on the duration of adjuvant hormonal therapy for improvement of OS and quality of life of breast cancer patients by providing reduction in recurrence and mortality. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at this practical consensus recommendations for the benefit of community oncologists.
Practical consensus recommendations on ovarian suppression in early breast cancer (adjuvant)
Authors: Singhal M. , Sahoo T. P. , Aggarwal S. , Singhvi A. , Kaushal V. , Rajpurohit S. , Parthasarthi K. M. , Vora A. , Ganvir M. , Gupta S. , Parikh Purvish M.
Published: April 2018

Substantial survival benefits exist for patients with early-stage breast cancer who undergo treatment with single-modality ovarian suppression, but its value is uncertain. Expert oncologist discussed to determine whether additional benefits exist with ovarian suppression plus multiple adjuvant therapy which provides a new treatment option that reduces the risk of recurrence in early breast cancer. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at this practical consensus recommendations for the benefit of community oncologists.
RESTRIÇÃO FINANCEIRA, TAXA EFETIVA DE IMPOSTOS SOBRE O LUCRO E OS EFEITOS DA CRISE NAS EMPRESAS DE CAPITAL ABERTO LISTADAS NO B3
Authors: Damascena Luzivalda Guedes , De França Robério Dantas , Leite Filho Paulo Amilton Maia , Paulo Edilson
Published: April 2018

As práticas de tax avoidance, em períodos normais e de turbulência, podem ser alternativas viáveis a serem adotadas pelas empresas, especialmente as empresas com restrições financeiras, a fim de obter mais fontes de recursos internos com a redução de impostos sobre o lucro (Effective Tax Rate- ETR). Desse modo, empresas com restrições financeiras, para quem o acesso ao financiamento externo se torna mais oneroso que o financiamento interno e, que desejam sair desse cenário, poderiam atentar para uma fonte alternativa de financiamento por meio de práticas de tax avoidance. Assim, objetivou-se analisar se as empresas com restrições financeiras de capital aberto que atuam no Brasil, buscam reduzir os impostos sobre o lucro como uma alternativa de fonte de financiamento interno, mais do que empresas não restritas, especialmente em momentos de crise. O período analisado foi de 2011 a 2015 e a amostra contemplou 615 firmas-anos. Utilizou-se a análise de dados em painel e os resultados mostram que, ao contrário do que se esperava, empresas com restrições financeiras aumentam sua ETR. No entanto, em períodos de crise econômica (2014-2015) ocorre o inverso, isto é, empresas restritas minimizam custos com impostos sobre o lucro em até 6,5%, mais do que empresas não restritas. Finalmente, as empresas brasileiras restritas intensificam a preocupação com a redução de ETR apenas na crise, e embora não seja o cenário ideal, tal comportamento pode ser explicado pelo maior risco de default nesses períodos de turbulência, dado sua condição inicial além de possível associação com a diminuição das fiscalizações tributárias nesse período. Pela ótica da variável ETR Diferencial, é possível observar que em períodos de crise as empresas com restrições financeiras se afastam da ETR nominal tornando a ETR mais agressiva. Assim, constatou-se que as possíveis práticas de tax avoidance, por parte das empresas que necessitam sair da condição de restrição financeira, não são uniformemente realizadas ao longo dos períodos.
Mixing layer height on the North China Plain and meteorological evidence of serious air pollution in southern Hebei
Authors: Zhu Xiaowan , Tang Guiqian , Guo Jianping , Hu Bo , Song Tao , Wang Lili , Xin Jinyuan , Gao Wenkang , Münkel Christoph , Schäfer Klaus , Li Xin , Wang Yuesi
Published: April 2018

Abstract. To investigate the spatiotemporal variability of the mixing layer
height (MLH) on the North China Plain (NCP), multi-site and long-term
observations of the MLH with ceilometers at three inland stations (Beijing, BJ; Shijiazhuang, SJZ; Tianjin, TJ) and
one coastal site (Qinhuangdao) were conducted from 16 October 2013 to 15 July 2015. The MLH of the inland
stations in the NCP were highest in summer and lowest in winter, while the
MLH on the coastal area of Bohai was lowest in summer and highest in spring.
As a typical site in southern Hebei, the annual mean of the MLH at SJZ was
464 ± 183 m, which was 15.0 and 21.9 % lower than that at the BJ
(594 ± 183 m) and TJ (546 ± 197 m) stations, respectively.
Investigation of the shear term and buoyancy term in the NCP revealed that
these two parameters in southern Hebei were 2.8 times lower and 1.5 times
higher than that in northern NCP within 0–1200 m in winter, respectively,
leading to a 1.9-fold higher frequency of the gradient Richardson number > 1 in southern Hebei compared to the northern NCP.
Furthermore, combined with aerosol optical depth and PM2.5 observations,
we found that the pollutant column concentration contrast (1.2 times) between
these two areas was far less than the near-ground PM2.5 concentration
contrast (1.5 times). Through analysis of the ventilation coefficient in the
NCP, the near-ground heavy pollution in southern Hebei mainly resulted from
the lower MLH and wind speed. Therefore, due to the importance of unfavorable
weather conditions, heavily polluting enterprises should be relocated and
strong emission reduction measures should be introduced to improve the air quality in
southern Hebei.
Towards variational retrieval of warm rain from passive microwave
observations
Authors: Duncan David Ian , Kummerow Christian D. , Dolan Brenda , Petković Veljko
Published: April 2018

Abstract. An experimental retrieval of oceanic warm rain is presented, extending a previous variational algorithm to provide a suite of retrieved variables spanning non-raining through predominantly warm raining conditions. The warm rain retrieval is underpinned by hydrometeor covariances and drizzle onset data derived from CloudSat. Radiative transfer modelling and analysis of drop size variability from disdrometer observations permit state-dependent observation error covariances that scale with columnar rainwater during iteration. The state-dependent errors and nuanced treatment of drop distributions in precipitating regions are novel and may be applicable for future retrievals and all-sky data assimilation methods. This retrieval method can effectively increase passive microwave sensors' sensitivity to light rainfall that might otherwise be missed. Comparisons with space-borne and ground radar estimates are provided as a proof of concept, demonstrating that a passive-only variational retrieval can be sufficiently constrained from non-raining through warm rain conditions. Significant deviations from forward model assumptions cause non-convergence, usually a result of scattering hydrometeors above the freezing level. However, for cases with liquid-only precipitation, this retrieval displays greater sensitivity than a benchmark operational retrieval. Analysis against passive and active products from the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) satellite shows substantial discrepancies in precipitation frequency, with the experimental retrieval observing more frequent light rain. This approach may be complementary to other precipitation retrievals, and its potential synergy with the operational passive GPM retrieval is briefly explored. There are also implications for data assimilation, as all 13 channels on the GPM Microwave Imager (GMI) are simulated over ocean with fidelity in warm raining conditions.
Estimating criteria pollutant emissions using the California Regional Multisector Air Quality Emissions (CA-REMARQUE) model v1.0
Authors: Zapata Christina B. , Yang Chris , Yeh Sonia , Ogden Joan , Kleeman Michael J.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. The California Regional Multisector Air Quality Emissions (CA-REMARQUE) model is developed to predict changes to criteria pollutant emissions inventories in California in response to sophisticated emissions control programs implemented to achieve deep greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reductions. Two scenarios for the year 2050 act as the starting point for calculations: a business-as-usual (BAU) scenario and an 80 % GHG reduction (GHG-Step) scenario. Each of these scenarios was developed with an energy economic model to optimize costs across the entire California economy and so they include changes in activity, fuels, and technology across economic sectors. Separate algorithms are developed to estimate emissions of criteria pollutants (or their precursors) that are consistent with the future GHG scenarios for the following economic sectors: (i) on-road, (ii) rail and off-road, (iii) marine and aviation, (iv) residential and commercial, (v) electricity generation, and (vi) biorefineries. Properly accounting for new technologies involving electrification, biofuels, and hydrogen plays a central role in these calculations. Critically, criteria pollutant emissions do not decrease uniformly across all sectors of the economy. Emissions of certain criteria pollutants (or their precursors) increase in some sectors as part of the overall optimization within each of the scenarios. This produces nonuniform changes to criteria pollutant emissions in close proximity to heavily populated regions when viewed at 4 km spatial resolution with implications for exposure to air pollution for those populations. As a further complication, changing fuels and technology also modify the composition of reactive organic gas emissions and the size and composition of particulate matter emissions. This is most notably apparent through a comparison of emissions reductions for different size fractions of primary particulate matter. Primary PM2.5 emissions decrease by 4 % in the GHG-Step scenario vs. the BAU scenario while corresponding primary PM0.1 emissions decrease by 36 %. Ultrafine particles (PM0.1) are an emerging pollutant of concern expected to impact public health in future scenarios. The complexity of this situation illustrates the need for realistic treatment of criteria pollutant emissions inventories linked to GHG emissions policies designed for fully developed countries and states with strict existing environmental regulations.
Gestión del conocimiento y competitividad en las cooperativas con sección de ahorro y crédito
Authors: Escobar Castillo Adalberto , Velandia Pacheco Gabriel , Navarro Manotas Evaristo
Published: April 2018

La naturaleza social de las cooperativas no significa que sus procesos deban ser ineficientes; por el contrario, en ellas han de existir políticas que permitan el establecimiento de ventajas competitivas. Por otro lado, en la economía post industrial el conocimiento se ha transformado en un activo relevante. En consecuencia, la investigación tiene como objetivo analizar la relación entre la gestión del conocimiento y la competitividad en las cooperativas de ahorro y crédito de Barranquilla. Para ello, se fundamenta en un enfoque racionalista crítico, paradigma cuantitativo, alcance correlacional y diseño no experimental transversal. Para la técnica, se realizó una encuesta a través de un cuestionario aplicado a los gerentes de 30 cooperativas de ahorro y crédito, las cuales fueron seleccionadas de acuerdo a un muestreo aleatorio simple y los datos fueron analizados mediante herramientas estadísticas. Los resultados demarcan la presencia de alineamientos que propenden por la creación, identificación, adquisición, clasificación, almacenamiento, aplicación, actualización y transferencia del conocimiento; sin embargo, no se presentan relaciones considerables entre estos procesos y el desarrollo de estrategias para la determinación de los factores clave de éxito; por este motivo, se concluye que en el contexto de las instituciones estudiadas, no existe evidencia empírica que soporte los fundamentos teóricos relacionados con la influencia de la administración de los activos intangibles, con respecto al desarrollo de competencias distintivas. Finalmente, se construyen las bases para la realización de estudios que busquen el fortalecimiento de las organizaciones solidarias a partir de la visualización de procesos sistemáticos que, asentados en las capacidades de aprendizaje organizacional, coadyuven a la obtención de una posición competitiva en el mercado.
Relative Localization of Wireless Sensor Nodes by Using the RSSI Data
Authors: TÜRKORAL Türker , TAMER Özgür , YETİŞ Suat , İNANÇ Enes , ÇETİN Levent
Published: April 2018

Wireless sensor network is an emerging research field and a crucial infrastructure for Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Sensor nodes of a wireless network may connect via different wireless technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee or WiMAX. In many applications, like field monitoring or smart buildings, the location of the nodes with respect to a global or relative coordinate system is essential information. The main focus of this work is the localization of wireless sensor nodes, using the Received Signal Strength Indicator (RSSI) metric of the wireless telecommunication infrastructure. We present both simulation and measurement results of the proposed method and compare the results with similar work.
Participative forest planning: How to obtain knowledge
Authors: Bruña-García Xabier , Marey-Pérez Manuel
Published: April 2018

Aim of study: To develop a methodology to obtain knowledge in public participation processes.Area of study: Fonsagrada-Os Ancares (Spain), region located in the northern Iberian Peninsula.Material and methods: This study proposes a new method for generating questionnaire survey in participative forest plan with four stages. The validation of this method is performed in the context of a tactical sub-regional forest plan.Main results: The questionnaires based on criteria and indicators proved to be effective in obtaining key information for planning. The method used offers tools to reach the consensus on natural resource management, through the knowledge gained by selecting relevant information (preferences, opinions, and expectations) from past, present, and future forest activity, focusing on solutions to conflicts.Research highlights: The use of appropriate indicators and criteria in the planning phase allows for obtaining knowledge concerning the preferences and future challenges for forest management.
Finnish graduating nursing students’ research utilization competence
Authors: Heikkilä Asta , Hupli Maija , Katajisto Jouko , Leino-Kilpi Helena
Published: April 2018

In nursing, research utilization (RU) is a core competence for evidence-based practice (EBP). During the past fifteen years, a great deal of effort has been expended worldwide in nursing higher education to promote EBP. This study explores graduating nursing students’ RU competence in Finland using a descriptive cross-sectional, long-term survey design with two cohorts of nursing students in 2003 (n = 529) and 2012 (n = 259). Data were collected with a Competence in Research Utilization instrument, and analyzed statistically. In both cohorts, students’ attitudes towards RU were positive, but their knowledge and skills were low to moderate. Students’ RU competence was higher in 2003 compared to 2012. There is a need to develop nursing education strategically, and by seeking suitable pedagogical methods and curriculum contents to support the learning of RU. In higher education, educational cooperation and longitudinal learning outcome evaluations are recommended.
Sustentabilidade na produção da agricultura familiar: o projeto Rede Viva Charqueadas
Authors: Bittencourt Daiane Lindner Nascimento , Calixto Patricia Mendes
Published: April 2018

Neste artigo analisamos os resultados da implantação das diretrizes do projeto Rede Viva Charqueadas, concebido através de um convênio firmado entre o município de Charqueadas/RS com a Petrobras Fome Zero: Desenvolvimento com Cidadania. O objetivo deste foi apoiar pequenos produtores rurais do Município de Charqueadas, identificando a matriz produtiva e fortalecendo o desenvolvimento econômico rural com base em técnicas sustentáveis e agroecológicas de produção. O Rede Viva foi criado para incentivar novas tecnologias com potencial de inclusão, focado na organização de um programa de Economia Solidária. Neste artigo apresentamos o Diagnóstico Rápido Participativo (DRP) no qual a realidade de cada família foi analisada e, a partir desses dados, avaliamos a execução das ações sustentáveis dentro da agricultura familiar.
O ensino do conceito geográfico de paisagem por meio da literatura de cordel a partir de uma oficina pedagógica
Authors: Honorio Moura da Silva Patrícia , Fonseca Ricardo Lopes
Published: April 2018

O presente relato de experiência, realizado a partir de uma oficina pedagógica, aborda a possibilidade de se utilizar interdisciplinarmente a literatura e a Geografia no que tange ao ensino do conceito de paisagem, buscando assim uma maior integração entre diferentes disciplinas e a aproximação dos conteúdos trabalhados em sala de aula com a realidade dos alunos. Neste sentido, o principal objetivo dessa oficina pedagógica foi o de identificar as reais contribuições do uso da literatura no ensino do conceito geográfico de paisagem. Para tanto, num primeiro momento é feita a discussão acerca da interdisciplinaridade e as possibilidades frente à Geografia. Por fim trabalha-se o conceito de paisagem a partir dos cordéis. Além disso, tem-se o relato da oficina “paisagens nos cordéis” e a análise dos materiais produzidos pelos alunos na mesma. A partir da atividade aplicada e da análise dos cordéis produzidos, foi possível perceber que a literatura possibilita aos alunos uma maior aproximação dos conteúdos trabalhados com o seu cotidiano e que o mesmo permite uma análise da paisagem que vai além do visível, pois exige um olhar mais crítico sobre os diferentes cenários abordados nesta forma de literatura.
Conflitos no processo de constituição e regularização do Parque Nacional do Iguaçu - PR
Authors: Dias Edson dos Santos
Published: April 2018

No presente artigo o objetivo é analisar a problemática associada à regularização fundiária de áreas protegidas, tendo como estudo de caso a situação do Parque Nacional do Iguaçu (PNI). As adversidades para a regularização fundiária representam um grave problema que acompanha a criação das unidades de conservação por todo o país e que, não raro, permanece sem solução por décadas. Para além das dificuldades orçamentárias para a regularização das áreas protegidas brasileiras, o que é um problema crônico, a questão torna-se mais complexa quando essas áreas - no caso da categoria de proteção integral - apresentam ocupação humana. O estudo apresenta, na primeira parte do artigo, os problemas relacionados ao financiamento da regularização das áreas protegidas. Na segunda parte, o intuito é discorrer sobre a importância do PNI no conjunto paranaense de áreas protegidas. Por último, é analisado o processo de regularização fundiária do PNI e os seus conflitos.
Pathogenicity and Genetic Diversity of Fusarium oxysporum Causing Soybean Root Rot in Northeast China
Authors: Li Yonggang , Zhao Tongxue , Hua Gia Khuong Hoang , Xu Lankun , Liu Jinxin , Li Shuxian , Huang Hanwen , Ji Pingsheng
Published: April 2018

Soybean is an important edible legume cultivated around the world. However, soybean production is seriously impacted by the widespread of root rot disease. In this study, genetic diversity and pathogenicity of Fusarium oxysporum associated with root rot of soybean in Heilongjiang province, China, were examined. A total of 50 F. oxysporum strains were isolated from diseased soybean plants grown in Harbin, Heihe, Jixi, Jiamusi and Qiqihar of Heilongjiang province. Pathogenicity study indicated that all F. oxysporum strains were able to induce root rot disease on soybean in which 28% of the isolates were highly aggressive, 42% were moderately aggressive, and 30% were weakly aggressive. Aggressiveness of the isolates did not appear to be associated with geographic location or plant age of isolation. Genomic DNA of the isolates was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction using eight amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) primers that generated 1728 bands, of which 99% were polymorphic. Cluster analysis using UPGMA showed that the similarity values ranged from 0.15 to 0.47. At a similarity coefficient of 0.2, the isolates were separated into 7 groups. Analysis of molecular variance indicated that about 92% of the genetic variation resided within populations. No correlation was found between genetic diversity and aggressiveness or the geographic origin of the isolates. Results of the study indicate that pathogenic F. oxysporum are commonly associated with root rot of soybean with various aggressiveness and they are genetically diverse.