bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase Imbalance Optimization in Interference Linear Displacement Sensor with Surface Gratings
Authors: Odinokov Sergey , Shishova Maria , Kovalev Michael , Zherdev Alexander , Lushnikov Dmitrii
Published: March 2020

In interferential linear displacement sensors, accurate information about the position of the reading head is calculated out of a pair of quadrature (sine and cosine) signals. In double grating interference schemes, diffraction gratings combine the function of beam splitters and phase retardation devices. Specifically, the reference diffraction grating is located in the reading head and regulates the phase shifts in diffraction orders. Measurement diffraction grating moves along with the object and provides correspondence to the displacement coordinate. To stabilize the phase imbalance in the output quadrature signals of the sensor, we propose to calculate and optimize the parameters of these gratings, based not only on the energetic analysis, but along with phase relationships in diffraction orders. The optimization method is based on rigorous coupled-wave analysis simulation of the phase shifts of light in diffraction orders in the optical system. The phase properties of the reference diffraction grating in the interferential sensor are studied. It is confirmed that the possibility of quadrature modulation depends on parameters of static reference scale. The implemented optimization criteria are formulated in accordance with the signal generation process in the optical branch. Phase imbalance and amplification coefficients are derived from Heydemann elliptic correction and expressed through the diffraction efficiencies and phase retardations of the reference scale. The phase imbalance of the obtained quadrature signals is estimated in ellipticity correction terms depending on the uncertainties of influencing parameters.
Human Vital Signs Detection Methods and Potential Using Radars: A Review
Authors: Kebe Mamady , Gadhafi Rida , Mohammad Baker , Sanduleanu Mihai , Saleh Hani , Al-Qutayri Mahmoud
Published: March 2020

Continuous monitoring of vital signs, such as respiration and heartbeat, plays a crucial role in early detection and even prediction of conditions that may affect the wellbeing of the patient. Sensing vital signs can be categorized into: contact-based techniques and contactless based techniques. Conventional clinical methods of detecting these vital signs require the use of contact sensors, which may not be practical for long duration monitoring and less convenient for repeatable measurements. On the other hand, wireless vital signs detection using radars has the distinct advantage of not requiring the attachment of electrodes to the subject’s body and hence not constraining the movement of the person and eliminating the possibility of skin irritation. In addition, it removes the need for wires and limitation of access to patients, especially for children and the elderly. This paper presents a thorough review on the traditional methods of monitoring cardio-pulmonary rates as well as the potential of replacing these systems with radar-based techniques. The paper also highlights the challenges that radar-based vital signs monitoring methods need to overcome to gain acceptance in the healthcare field. A proof-of-concept of a radar-based vital sign detection system is presented together with promising measurement results.
Visual-Based Defect Detection and Classification Approaches for Industrial Applications—A SURVEY
Authors: Czimmermann Tamás , Ciuti Gastone , Milazzo Mario , Chiurazzi Marcello , Roccella Stefano , Oddo Calogero Maria , Dario Paolo
Published: March 2020

This paper reviews automated visual-based defect detection approaches applicable to various materials, such as metals, ceramics and textiles. In the first part of the paper, we present a general taxonomy of the different defects that fall in two classes: visible (e.g., scratches, shape error, etc.) and palpable (e.g., crack, bump, etc.) defects. Then, we describe artificial visual processing techniques that are aimed at understanding of the captured scenery in a mathematical/logical way. We continue with a survey of textural defect detection based on statistical, structural and other approaches. Finally, we report the state of the art for approaching the detection and classification of defects through supervised and non-supervised classifiers and deep learning.
Sustainability of the Optimum Pavement Model of Reclaimed Asphalt from a Used Pavement Structure
Authors: Softić Edis , Radičević Veljko , Subotić Marko , Stević Željko , Talić Zlatan , Pamučar Dragan
Published: March 2020

This paper demonstrates and provides additional findings and instructions to produce new cold-recycled layers of pavement structures spatially and temporally sustainable. At the same time, recycled pavement structures have been enhanced with optimum amounts of new stone materials and binders made of cement and foamed bitumen. The subject of the research is based on the examination of recycled asphalt from surface and bituminous base courses of pavement structures for use on higher-type roads. The aim of the research is to model the process of producing recycled asphalt by cold recycling to optimize the process of influential parameters. In addition, one of the primary goals of the research is to demonstrate a sustainable way of producing new cold-recycled layers of pavement structures. The obtained results indicated the inevitability of the use of recycled material from pavement structures with the possibility of applying secondary and tertiary crushing of recycled mass, which depends on the type of layer for which the recycled material would be used. The research resulted in an optimum mixture variant of the stabilization layer of pavement structure that consists mainly of recycled material from a worn pavement structure improved with a relatively small amount of new aggregate with the addition of minimal stabilizers made of cement and foamed bitumen. The results showed that the optimum mixture variant of the stabilization layer is spatially and temporally stable. Additionally, the presented optimum variant of the stabilization layer enables sustainable development of road networks with minimum consumption of new natural resources.
A Theoretical Research Framework of Future Sustainable Urban Freight Transport for Smart Cities
Authors: He Zhangyuan , Haasis Hans-Dietrich
Published: March 2020

This paper aims to construct a theoretical research framework for sustainable urban freight transport (SUFT) from the perspectives of future urban development and distribution innovations, and appropriate research methods are discussed, as well. Urban freight transport plays a critical role in the promotion of sustainable and livable cities. According to the literature review, considerable research on SUFT has focused on resolving some specific problems with a short-term perspective. The existence of an urban freight transport strategy is noted, which should be embedded in an overall sustainable development strategy with a long-term perspective (approximately 20–30 years). Nevertheless, considerable research has paid scant attention to the long-term planning of SUFT. Given this, this paper contributes to the closure of this gap. First, this paper presents a systematic literature review (SLR) to highlight published papers involving foresight research within the past 16 years (2003–2018). This step contributes to the understanding of research methods that can be used in foresight research. Subsequently, this paper discusses the impacts of both urban development and distribution innovations on future SUFT, and these effects are used to select the appropriate methods to construct the theoretical research framework. Finally, the theoretical research framework of long-term planning for SUFT is developed on the basis of two future perspectives: the trends of urban development and the application of urban distribution innovations. This framework is intended to provide an approach to designing sustainable urban logistics, taking into account urban development and distribution innovations.
Creating Sustainable Innovativeness through Big Data and Big Data Analytics Capability: From the Perspective of the Information Processing Theory
Authors: Song Michael , Zhang Haili , Heng Jinjin
Published: March 2020

Service innovativeness is a key sustainable competitive advantage that increases sustainability of enterprise development. Literature suggests that big data and big data analytics capability (BDAC) enhance sustainable performance. Yet, no studies have examined how big data and BDAC affect service innovativeness. To fill this research gap, based on the information processing theory (IPT), we examine how fits and misfits between big data and BDAC affect service innovativeness. To increase cross-national generalizability of the study results, we collected data from 1403 new service development (NSD) projects in the United States, China and Singapore. Dummy regression method was used to test the model. The results indicate that for all three countries, high big data and high BDAC has the greatest effect on sustainable innovativeness. In China, fits are always better than misfits for creating sustainable innovativeness. In the U.S., high big data is always better for increasing sustainable innovativeness than low big data is. In contrast, in Singapore, high BDAC is always better for enhancing sustainable innovativeness than low BDAC is. This study extends the IPT and enriches cross-national research of big data and BDAC. We conclude the article with suggestions of research limitations and future research directions.
Assessment of Sustainable Socioeconomic Development in European Union Countries
Authors: Skvarciany Viktorija , Jurevičienė Daiva , Volskytė Gintarė
Published: March 2020

There are still debates in the scientific literature about the factors influencing countries’ sustainable socioeconomic development. Therefore, the current article aims at determining the factors of sustainable socioeconomic development and assessing its level in the EU countries. The following methods were employed for the research: an evaluation based on distance from average solution (EDAS) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA). EDAS was used to reveal which countries have the highest level of sustainable socioeconomic development, and which have the lowest. The ranking was done based on the appraisal score, which is an outcome of EDAS. Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) was used for clustering the countries based on the appraisal scores in order to distinguish groups of countries having a similar level of sustainable socioeconomic development. The results revealed that the highest level of sustainable socioeconomic development is in Germany, and the lowest in Portugal. Based on HCA, the countries were divided into three groups. The first cluster’s countries have the weakest sustainable socioeconomic development, and countries assigned to the third cluster have the best. In the current research, the third cluster consists of one country, Germany, which supports the results obtained with the EDAS method, i.e., Germany is the country with the highest level of sustainable socioeconomic development in the EU.
Risk Management Opportunities between Socially Responsible Investments and Selected Commodities
Authors: Cupriak Daniel , Kuziak Katarzyna , Popczyk Tomasz
Published: March 2020

Socially responsible investing (SRI) or sustainable, responsible, and impact investing is growing fast. The net total of SRI assets at the beginning of 2018 was USD 12.0 trillion. There is extensive literature on SRI, but very little of it relates to portfolio construction and risk management combining SRI and commodities. In this paper, the authors pay attention to model volatility and dynamic conditional correlations between SRI investment and selected representative of commodities. We state the following hypothesis: the potential to create portfolio and risk management opportunities exists between SRI and commodities such as grain, precious metals, and industrial metals. To verify this, modeling of volatility and dynamic conditional correlation (DCC) between pair of elements is necessary. Empirical research conducted for the global market based on selected indices for SRI and commodities confirms this hypothesis. These results can improve asset selection in portfolio construction and allow investors to make more reasonable decisions.
Aquaculture Production and Its Environmental Sustainability in Thailand: Challenges and Potential Solutions
Authors: Sampantamit Tiptiwa , Ho Long , Lachat Carl , Sutummawong Nantida , Sorgeloos Patrick , Goethals Peter
Published: March 2020

Though aquaculture plays an important role in providing foods and healthy diets, there are concerns regarding the environmental sustainability of prevailing practices. This study examines the trends and changes in fisheries originating from aquaculture production in Thailand and provides insights into such production’s environmental impacts and sustainability. Together with an extensive literature review, we investigated a time series of Thai aquaculture production data from 1995 to 2015. Overall, Thai aquaculture production has significantly increased during the last few decades and significantly contributed to socio-economic development. Estimates of total aquaculture production in Thailand have gradually grown from around 0.6 to 0.9 million tons over the last twenty years. Farmed shrimp is the main animal aquatic product, accounting for an estimated 40% of total yields of aquaculture production, closely followed by fish (38%) and mollusk (22%). Estimates over the past decades indicate that around 199470 ha of land is used for aquaculture farming. Out of the total area, 61% is used for freshwater farms, and 39% is used for coastal farms. However, this industry has contributed to environmental degradation, such as habitat destruction, water pollution, and ecological effects. Effective management strategies are urgently needed to minimize the environmental impacts of aquaculture and to ensure it maximally contributes to planetary health. Innovative and practical solutions that rely on diverse technology inputs and smart market-based management approaches that are designed for environmentally friendly aquaculture farming can be the basis for viable long-term solutions for the future.
Marketing for Sustainable Tourism
Authors: Martini Umberto , Buffa Federica
Published: March 2020

In the last twenty years, the tourism industry has been transformed by several global trends [...]
Assessment of Land Reclamation Benefits in Mining Areas Using Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation
Authors: Yu Xueyi , Mu Chi , Zhang Dongdong
Published: March 2020

Land reclamation plays a vital role in the ecological improvement and economic development of mining regions. This study aims to conduct a preliminary discussion on the evaluation content, evaluation methods, and evaluation indicators of land reclamation benefits in mining areas. Using fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (FCE) method, land reclamation was assessed. After compiling a model of the land reclamation influencing factors, an evaluation index of land reclamation benefit in the mining area was constructed using the land reclamation monitoring data for the northern part of the mining area over the last decade. In addition, an expert scoring method and a traditional evaluation model were used to estimate the comprehensive benefits of land reclamation at Hanjiawan coal mine in Shendong mining area. Land reclamation markedly improved the land type within the mining region and decreased the amount of damaged land, including subsided and occupied land. Moreover, land reclamation improved the available land area such as agricultural and construction land. The proposed model obtained an overall 63% increase in the land reclamation area. Different degrees of ecological, economic, and social benefits of Hanjiawan coal mine were observed; however, the ecological benefits were the most significant, with a growth rate of 56%. Based on the evaluation criteria, all benefits of the mining area after reclamation were good. Over time, land reclamation will offer greater comprehensive benefits to the mining area. Furthermore, this method can be used for precise evaluation of comprehensive benefits after land reclamation, and the assessment results will provide a reference basis for sustainable development of the mining area.
Archaeological Sites in Small Towns—A Sustainability Assessment of Northumberland County
Authors: Vaz Eric
Published: March 2020

Background: Land-use change, resulting from urban expansion, has led to the unprecedented importance of rethinking our interactions with the environment in general. The consequences of anthropogenic activity on natural land, as well as sustainable land use types, is a significant concern to the detriment of small towns. In this article, I assess the changes in the urban footprint morphology of Northumberland County while evaluating the consequences of urban fragmentation on archaeological sites. Northumberland has a total population of 85,598 divided into seven municipalities and the Alderville First Nation reserve. Northumberland County is a commuting distance of one hour from Toronto, one of North America’s most important economic hubs. It is of the highest importance to measure and understand the current characteristics of land-use change and its impacts on the sustainability of small towns and local communities. Methods: A total of archaeological sites are used to test the impacts of urbanization and land-use change throughout the perimeter of Northumberland county. Spatial analysis is conducted employing spatial autocorrelation techniques (global and local) to assess the existence of hotspots of archaeological sites and the potential endangerment of these sites due to urban pressure. A hexagonal topology is used to derive a regional understanding of impacted regions within the county, allowing the richness of archaeological heritage sites as well as the possible concerns of these spatial clusters to be examined. Results: It is shown that a significant number of archaeological sites are present in Northumberland county, with a clear indication of a hotspot around Rice Lake. Future urbanization as well as land-use fragmentation may have an impact on the sustainability of these archaeological sites. It is shown that hexagonal geometries may establish relevant spatial surfaces to compare urban and archaeological sites as criteria to understand the endangerment of archaeological sites. The availability of the Global Urban Footprint (GUF) creates a particularly rigorous framework for the detection of impact on archaeological sites. Conclusion: The findings suggest that archaeological sites in small towns can benefit from high-resolution urban land-use footprints to detect impacts on archaeological sites and the relations of land-use change and intrasite management. This is of utmost importance in times of significant anthropogenic change brought by increasing urban pressure on small and medium-sized towns.
Classroom Indoor Environment Assessment through Architectural Analysis for the Design of Efficient Schools
Authors: López-Chao Vicente , Amado Lorenzo Antonio , Saorín Jose Luis , De La Torre-Cantero Jorge , Melián-Díaz Dámari
Published: March 2020

Optimization of environmental performance is one of the standards to be achieved towards designing sustainable buildings. Many researchers are focusing on zero emission building; however, it is essential that the indoor environment favors the performance of the building purpose. Empirical research has demonstrated the influence of architectural space variables on student performance, but they have not focused on holistic studies that compare how space influences different academic performance, such as Mathematics and Arts. This manuscript explores, under self-reported data, the relationship between learning space and the mathematics and art performance in 583 primary school students in Galicia (Spain). For this, the Indoor Physical Environment Perception scale has been adapted and validated and conducted in 27 classrooms. The results of the Exploratory Factor Analysis have evidenced that the learning space is structured in three categories: Workspace comfort, natural environment and building comfort. Multiple linear regression analyses have supported previous research and bring new findings concerning that the indoor environment variables do not influence in the same way different activities of school architecture.
Using Machine Learning-Based Algorithms to Analyze Erosion Rates of a Watershed in Northern Taiwan
Authors: Nguyen Kieu Anh , Chen Walter , Lin Bor-Shiun , Seeboonruang Uma
Published: March 2020

This study continues a previous study with further analysis of watershed-scale erosion pin measurements. Three machine learning (ML) algorithms—Support Vector Machine (SVM), Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN)—were used to analyze depth of erosion of a watershed (Shihmen reservoir) in northern Taiwan. In addition to three previously used statistical indexes (Mean Absolute Error, Root Mean Square of Error, and R-squared), Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) was calculated to compare the predictive performances of the three models. To see if there was a statistical difference between the three models, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used. The research utilized 14 environmental attributes as the input predictors of the ML algorithms. They are distance to river, distance to road, type of slope, sub-watershed, slope direction, elevation, slope class, rainfall, epoch, lithology, and the amount of organic content, clay, sand, and silt in the soil. Additionally, measurements of a total of 550 erosion pins installed on 55 slopes were used as the target variable of the model prediction. The dataset was divided into a training set (70%) and a testing set (30%) using the stratified random sampling with sub-watershed as the stratification variable. The results showed that the ANFIS model outperforms the other two algorithms in predicting the erosion rates of the study area. The average RMSE of the test data is 2.05 mm/yr for ANFIS, compared to 2.36 mm/yr and 2.61 mm/yr for ANN and SVM, respectively. Finally, the results of this study (ANN, ANFIS, and SVM) were compared with the previous study (Random Forest, Decision Tree, and multiple regression). It was found that Random Forest remains the best predictive model, and ANFIS is the second-best among the six ML algorithms.
Development of a Kinect-Based English Learning System Based on Integrating the ARCS Model with Situated Learning
Authors: Chang Yi-Hsing , Lin Pei-Rul , Lu You-Te
Published: March 2020

This study developed a Kinect-based somatosensory English learning system. The main design concept was to integrate Kinect as an interaction technique with theories of situated learning and the attention, relevance, confidence, and satisfaction (ARCS) model, to design relevant learning activities and materials, thereby enhancing students’ learning outcomes. The proposed system allows for planning and designing learning activities and content according to situated learning components and the ARCS model. The somatosensory interaction system Kinect was used to provide users with a virtual learning environment to achieve actual spatial and physical experiences, assisting learners’ engagement in stories and scenarios as well as enhancing their motivation to learn. English vocabulary related to supermarkets was set as the learning objective and 70 students ranging from third to sixth grade at a learning center in Tainan, Taiwan were selected as participants. During the experiment, participants were divided into two groups: the experimental group, which employed the proposed learning system, and the control group, in which students learned using printed materials coupled with mobile devices. Pre- and posttest scores of the two groups were used to assess learning outcomes and analyze the ARCS model-based questionnaire. The results revealed that the proposed system effectively improved learners’ motivation to learn and learning outcomes.
Free Vibration of AFG Circular Arch with Symmetric and Anti-symmetric Boundary Conditions at Mid-Arc
Authors: Lee Joon Kyu , Lee Byoung Koo
Published: March 2020

This paper studies the in-plane free vibration of axially functionally graded (AFG) circular arches with non-uniform cross-section. The geometric and material properties of circular arches with regular polygon cross-section vary symmetrically about the mid-arc along the axial direction in quadratic polynomial form. The governing differential equations of the motion are derived, and the symmetric and anti-symmetric boundary conditions of the arches are developed for applying initial and boundary value problems in the solution method. The computed results agree well with the results of the finite element software ADINA. The effects of geometrical and material parameters on the natural frequency and mode shape of AFG circular arches are investigated.
A Note on Weakly S-Noetherian Rings
Authors: Kim Dong Kyu , Lim Jung Wook
Published: March 2020

Let R be a commutative ring with identity and S a (not necessarily saturated) multiplicative subset of R. We call the ring R to be a weakly S-Noetherian ring if every S-finite proper ideal of R is an S-Noetherian R-module. In this article, we study some properties of weakly S-Noetherian rings. In particular, we give some conditions for the Nagata’s idealization and the amalgamated algebra to be weakly S-Noetherian rings.
New Viral Sequences Identified in the Flavescence Dorée Phytoplasma Vector Scaphoideus titanus
Authors: Ottati Sara , Chiapello Marco , Galetto Luciana , Bosco Domenico , Marzachì Cristina , Abbà Simona
Published: March 2020

(1) Background: The leafhopper Scaphoideus titanus is the primary vector of Flavescence dorée phytoplasma (FDp) in European vineyards. Flavescence dorée is one of the most severely damaging diseases of Vitis vinifera and, consequently, a major threat to grape and wine production in several European countries. Control measures are compulsory, but they mainly involve large-scale insecticide treatments, with detrimental impacts on the environment. One possible solution is to exploit the largely unexplored genetic diversity of viruses infecting S. titanus as highly specific and environmentally benign tools for biological control. (2) Methods: A metatranscriptomic approach was adopted to identify viruses that may infect individuals caught in the wild in both its native (United States) and invasive (Europe) areas. Reverse transcription PCR was used to confirm their presence in RNA pools and explore their prevalence. (3) Results: We described nine new RNA viruses, including members of “Picorna-Calici”, “Permutotetra”, “Bunya-Arena”, “Reo”, “Partiti-Picobirna”, “Luteo-Sobemo” and “Toti-Chryso” clades. A marked difference in the diversity and abundance of the viral species was observed between the USA population and the European ones. (4) Conclusions: This work represents the first survey to assess the viral community of a phytoplasma insect vector. The possibility to exploit these naturally occurring viruses as specific and targeted biocontrol agents of S. titanus could be the answer to increasing demand for a more sustainable viticulture.
Porcine Circovirus 2 Induction of ROS Is Responsible for Mitophagy in PK-15 Cells via Activation of Drp1 Phosphorylation
Authors: Zhang Yikai , Sun Renjie , Li Xiaoliang , Fang Weihuan
Published: March 2020

Mitochondrial dynamics is essential for the maintenance of cell homeostasis. Previous studies have shown that porcine circovirus 2 (PCV2) infection decreases the mitochondrial membrane potential and causes the elevation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which may ultimately lead to mitochondrial apoptosis. However, whether PCV2 induce mitophagy remains unknown. Here we show that PCV2-induced mitophagy in PK-15 cells via Drp1 phosphorylation and PINK1/Parkin activation. PCV2 infection enhanced the phosphorylation of Drp1 and its subsequent translocation to mitochondria. PCV2-induced Drp1 phosphorylation could be suppressed by specific CDK1 inhibitor RO-3306, suggesting CDK1 as its possible upstream molecule. PCV2 infection increased the amount of ROS, up-regulated PINK1 expression, and stimulated recruitment of Parkin to mitochondria. N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC) markedly decreased PCV2-induced ROS, down-regulated Drp1 phosphorylation, and lessened PINK1 expression and mitochondrial accumulation of Parkin. Inhibition of Drp1 by mitochondrial division inhibitor-1 Mdivi-1 or RNA silencing not only resulted in the reduction of ROS and PINK1, improved mitochondrial mass and mitochondrial membrane potential, and decreased mitochondrial translocation of Parkin, but also led to reduced apoptotic responses. Together, our study shows that ROS induction due to PCV2 infection is responsible for the activation of Drp1 and the subsequent mitophagic and mitochondrial apoptotic responses.
Influenza Vaccination in Italian Healthcare Workers (2018–2019 Season): Strengths and Weaknesses. Results of a Cohort Study in Two Large Italian Hospitals
Authors: Panatto Donatella , Lai Piero Luigi , Mosca Stefano , Lecini Elvina , Orsi Andrea , Signori Alessio , Castaldi Silvana , Pariani Elena , Pellegrinelli Laura , Galli Cristina , Anselmi Giovanni , Icardi Giancarlo ,   CIRI-IT Team
Published: March 2020

Background: Annual vaccination is the most effective way to combat influenza. As influenza viruses evolve, seasonal vaccines are updated annually. Within the European project Development of Robust and Innovative Vaccine Effectiveness (DRIVE), a cohort study involving Italian healthcare workers (HCWs) was carried out during the 2018-2019 season. Two aims were defined: to measure influenza vaccine effectiveness (IVE) against laboratory-confirmed influenza cases and to conduct an awareness-raising campaign to increase vaccination coverage. Methods: Each subject enrolled was followed up from enrollment to the end of the study. Each HCW who developed ILI was swabbed for laboratory confirmation of influenza. Influenza viruses were identified by molecular assays. A Cox regression analysis, crude and adjusted for confounding variables, was performed to estimate the IVE. Results: Among the 4483 HCWs enrolled, vaccination coverage was 32.5%, and 308 ILI cases were collected: 23.4% were positive for influenza (54.2% A(H1N1) pdm09; 45.8% A(H3N2)). No influenza B viruses were detected. No overall IVE was observed. Analyzing the subtypes of influenza A viruses, the IVE was estimated as 45% (95% CI: -59 to 81) for A(H1N1) pdm09. Conclusions: Vaccination coverage among HCWs increased. Study difficulties and the circulation of drifted variants of A(H3N2) could partly explain the observed IVE.
A Novel Peptide Isolated from a Phage Display Peptide Library Modeling Antigenic Epitope of DHAV-1 and DHAV-3
Authors: Zhang Ruihua , Yang Yupeng , Lan Jingjing , Lin Shaoli , Xie Zhijing , Zhang Xiansheng , Jiang Shijin
Published: March 2020

Duck hepatitis A virus (DHAV), the major pathogen of duck virus hepatitis (DVH), causes severe diseases that threaten the duck industry worldwide. The VP1 protein, a major structural protein of DHAV, is able to induce neutralizing antibody in ducks. The purpose of this study was to identify the antigenic mimotope of DHAV by phage display technology. A monoclonal antibody (mAb) 4E6 against DHAV-1 and DHAV-3 was prepared, and a phage library prepared with the PhD-12 Phage Display Peptide Library Kit was screened with the mAb. A novel peptide, 1GLTWKLPPSM10 was identified with high affinity to the mAb and could specifically block mAb 4E6 from binding DHAV-1 and DHAV-3. Animal tests confirmed that the immunization of ducklings with the mimotope could inhibit the virus proliferation and protect the ducklings from DVH. In summary, the neutralizing conformational mimotope 1GLTWKLPPSM10 might be a promising vaccine candidate for the prevention of DHAV infection.
Antimicrobial Activity of a Phage Mixture and a Lactic Acid Bacterium against Staphylococcus aureus from Bovine Mastitis
Authors: Titze Isabel , Krömker Volker
Published: March 2020

The antimicrobial activity of a phage mixture and a lactic acid bacterium against Staphylococcus aureus isolates from bovine origin was investigated in vitro with regard to possible applications in the therapy of udder inflammation (mastitis) caused by bacterial infections. The S. aureus isolates used for inoculation derived from quarter foremilk samples of mastitis cases. For the examination of the antimicrobial activity, the reduction of the S. aureus germ density was determined [log10 cfu/mL]. The phage mixture consisted of the three obligatory lytic and S. aureus-specific phages STA1.ST29, EB1.ST11 and EB1.ST27 (1:1:1). The selected Lactobacillus plantarum strain with proven antimicrobial properties and the phage mixture were tested against S. aureus in milk, both alone and in combination. The application of the lactic acid bacterium showed only a low reduction ability for a 24 h incubation period. The bacteriophage mixture as well as its combination with the lactic acid bacterium showed high antimicrobial activity against S. aureus for a 24 h incubation period at 37 °C, with only the phage mixture showing significance.
Influence of Earthquake Rotational Components on the Seismic Safety of Steel Structures
Authors: Pnevmatikos Nikos , Konstandakopoulou Foteini , Papagiannopoulos George , Hatzigeorgiou George , Papavasileiou Georgios
Published: March 2020

In this work a seismic analysis of structure associated with the complete description of ground motion components is performed. All earthquake excitation components corresponding to the six degrees of freedom, translational and rotational ones need to be taken into account for a realistic simulation of structural performance. The impact of the rotational components of an earthquake to the overall response of a steel structure is examined. Typically, in response to the history analyses, the seismic input is descripted by its translational component only, while the rotational components are ignored. This is because the rotational component requires special devices to be recorded in adequate detail. This is one of the reasons why this component is often ignored. With the currently available technology, such an instrument can be constructed and provide detailed records that can be used for the response history analysis of structures. The applicable design codes using a simplified response spectrum analysis accounting for rotational components is proposed and elastic design response spectra are introduced. Another reason why the rotational component was not taken into account in structural analysis is that it does not have significant effect on low-rise buildings. In this work, the analysis results in terms of response and internal forces when accounting for the rotational component is demonstrated. A case study on the response history analysis of symmetrical and non-symmetrical steel structures subjected to earthquake excitation with and without the rotational component of the excitation was performed. Numerical results show that the influence of the rotational component on the structural behaviour is important and should be taken into account in the design process.
THERAPIES OF RESISTANT EXUDATIVE PLEURITIS
Authors: Charyshkin A.L. , Kuzmina E.A. , Khusnutdinov B.I. , Toneev E.A. , Midlenko O.V. , Belonogov N.I.
Published: March 2020

In Russia, annually more than 100,000 people are diagnosed with tumor pleuritis. Resistant cancerous pleuritis is often caused by lung cancer (35 %), breast cancer (23 %), ovarian cancer and lymphomas (10 %). Pleuritis in malignant neoplasms often indicates the spread of the process through pleura. At the same time, systemic therapy does not always help patients. Radical treatment for malignant pleural effusion is gradually being replaced by new minimally invasive methods. Prolonged drainage of the pleural cavity in exudative pleuritis increases the risk of infection, which contributes to the development of pleural empyema. In order to eliminate the exudate, talc, tetracycline, and Betadine solutions are introduced into the pleural cavity through the drainage, the efficacy being 60 to 90 %. Thus, a new method for drug administration into the pleural cavity, which helps to eliminate resistant exudative pleuritis, remains relevant. Keywords: resistant exudative pleuriris, malignant neoplasms, pleurodesis. Проведен обзор отечественной и зарубежной литературы, посвященный местному лечению резистентного злокачественного плеврита. С каждым годом частота онкологических заболеваний и опухолевых плевритов только повышается. В России ежегодно опухолевые плевриты диагностируют более чем у 100 000 чел. Резистентный злокачественный плеврит в 35 % случаев обусловлен раком легкого, в 23 % – раком молочной железы, в 10 % – раком яичников и лимфомами. Плеврит при злокачественных новообразованиях часто свидетельствует о распространении процесса по плевре. При этом использование системных методов лечения не всегда облегчает состояние пациента. Радикальные методы лечения злокачественного плеврального выпота постепенно заменяются новыми минимально инвазивными методами. Продолжительное дренирование плевральной полости при экссудативном плеврите увеличивает риск ее инфицирования, что способствует развитию эмпиемы плевры. С целью ликвидации экссудата через установленный дренаж в плевральную полость вводят растворы талька, тетрациклина, бетадина с эффективностью от 60 до 90 %. Недостатком данного способа лечения является выраженный болевой синдром, повышение температуры тела, риск легочных осложнений, длительность лечения. Таким образом, создание способа введения лекарственных препаратов в плевральную полость для ликвидации резистентного экссудативного плеврита остается актуальным. Ключевые слова: резистентный экссудативный плеврит, злокачественные новообразования, плевродез.
Determinants of Hypertension in a Rural Area of Kancheepuram District, Tamilnadu
Authors: Vijayakarthikeyan Dr. M. , Muthiah Dr. Muthulakshmi
Published: March 2020

Background: Hypertension is one of the most important modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). Hypertension is a risk factor that accounts for 12.3% of the deaths and disabilities combined in Tamilnadu during 2016.

Objectives

• To assess the prevalence of risk factors of hypertension among the study population.
• To determine the association between socio-demographic factors and hypertension.
• To determine the association between various risk factors and hypertension.
Preliminary Phytochemical Analysis of a Polyherbal Siddha Formulation - Milagu Leghium (Ml)
Authors: D Subathra , R Kirubakaran
Published: March 2020

Legiyam is one of the sublime formulations of internal medicine in the Siddha system. Milagu legiyam is a polyherbal formulation that is indicated for vatha disease. athmaratchamirtham is the literature evidence for this drug. The purpose of this paper is to prove the ML contains the bioactive components which were used for the above indication.
Study of Acute Toxicity of Phytopreparation Parodonfit
Authors: Alisherovna Zhuraeva Aziza , Saidov S. A. , Tulyaganov B.S.
Published: March 2020

The object of the study is a liquid alcoholic extract under the code name "Parodonfit" -containing medicinal plants, such as Salvia officinalis, Matricariachamomilla, Calendula officinalis, Hypericumper for atum. The chemical composition of this phytocomposition was previously studied. Moreover, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins and tannins were found in the composition of the liquid extract. Given the traditional use of this phytocomposition in dentistry, it is of undoubted interest to develop a dental dosage form based on it for the treatment of diseases of the oral mucosa. The article presents the results of a study of acute toxicity of the Parodonfit liquid extract.
Salmonella Hepatitis - A Case Report
Authors: Hussain M. Z. , Chowdhury S. K.
Published: March 2020

Salmonella hepatitis is a rare complication of Typhoid fever in tropics. Typhoid fever is an infectious disease associated with high morbidity and mortality. The classical pattern of presentation is continuous fever with a “step ladder”rise, headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, and relative bradycardia. In a rare instance, Typhoid fever presented with the feature of acute hepatitis like hepatomegaly and deranged liver functions with hepatic encephalopathy. After taking proper informed consent,we have reported a young patient who presented with low-grade fever, diarrhea,and jaundice. Subsequently he was found to have acute salmonella hepatitis secondary to typhoid fever. Recognition of Salmonella hepatitis is of clinical importance as it can mimic acute viral hepatitis. Early institution of specific therapeutic intervention and supportive care improve the prognosis in these patients.
Insulin Autoimmune Syndrome Treated with Plasmapharesis
Authors: Jonnalagadda Dr. Kavya , Pavithran Dr. Praveen. V.
Published: March 2020

A 66-year male with a history of Central Serous Retinopathy presented with recurrent episodes of hypoglycemia. On evaluation, he was found to have insulin-mediated hypoglycemia with serum insulin of 300uIU/ml, C peptide 27.51ng/ml, when the blood glucose was 46mg/dl. High insulin levels above 100uIU/ml, led to suspicion of Autoimmune hypoglycemia and were confirmed by a high anti-insulin antibody titer of 300U/ml. Imaging was negative for Insulinoma. The patient was started on low dose oral prednisolone under ophthalmological monitoring, but as there was no symptomatic improvement, the dose was increased following which there was a flare-up of CSR. The patient was initiated on plasmapheresis following which his hypoglycemia improved with drop in anti-insulin antibody titers to 29U/ml. The patient was maintained on low dose steroids, which were tapered and stopped over the next six months with complete resolution of hypoglycemia and normalization of anti-insulin antibody titers.
Affecting Factors Performance of Lecturer Remains in the University of Muhammadiyah Buton
Authors: Rahim Rahim , A Arfiah
Published: March 2020

Lecturers are one of the essential components in an education system in higher education. The roles, tasks and responsibilities of lecturers are very meaningful in realizing the goals of national education, which are to educate the life of the nation, improve the quality of Indonesian people, cover faith and piety, noble character, and mastery of science, technology, and adaptation. Therefore it is necessary to pay great attention to matters relating to improving the performance of lecturers so that lecturers can carry out their tasks more professionally. This study aims to analyze the factors that influence the performance of Permanent Lecturers at Buton Muhammadiyah University. These factors are motivation, competency, leadership, and work environment. The subjects in this study were Permanent Lecturers at the University of Muhammadiyah Buton. The study was conducted using a questionnaire as an primary data collection instrument. Samples taken as many as 40 lecturers using the convinience samling method. To measure the factors that influence the performance of Permanent Lecturers at Buton Muhammadiyah University, multiple analysis is used. The results showed that the motivation, leadership competency, and the work environment of the lecturer had a positive influence on the performance of the Permanent Lecturer at Buton Muhammadiyah University.
ANALISIS INVESTASI PENAMBAHAN AKTIVA TETAP (MESIN OVEN) PADA UD. WARNA SARI DI DESA SURANADI KECAMATAN NARMADA KABUPATEN LOMBOK BARAT
Authors: PERMADI I GUSTI AGUNG DIDIT EKA
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this study was to analyze the feasibility of an investment plan to add fixed assets (oven machines) by UD. Warna Sari in terms of financial aspects. This research is applied with data collection methods namely; case methods, data collection techniques: observation, interviews, and documentation. Data collection tools used in this study are questionnaire and tape recorder. Data analysis uses Net Present Value (NPV) analysis, Internal Rate of Return (IRR), Payback Period (PP), and Profitability Index (PI). From the results of this study can be concluded as follows: investment plans to add fixed assets (oven machines) are feasible to be implemented by UD. Warna Sari, when viewed from the financial aspect. This can be seen from the Payback Period (PP) = 0.09 years <1 year, Net Present Value (NPV) of Rp 473,330,270 is positive, IRR (105.04%)> RRR (50%), PI (60%) , 17)> 1 The investment decision to add fixed assets (oven machines) for business leader at UD. Warna Sari is feasible to be implemented to increase the production capacity of jackfruit dodol whose sales value continues to increase from year to year.
ANALISIS KEBUTUHAN AIR TANAMAN DENGAN METODE CAOLI PADA TANAMAN TOMAT DENGAN IRIGASI TETES DI LAHAN KERING LOMBOK UTARA
Authors: NEGARA I DEWA GEDE JAYA , BUDIANTO M. BAGUS , SUPRIYADI ANID , SAIDAH HUMAIROH
Published: March 2020

Tomato farming in the dry land of Salut Village, North Lombok is very often done by farmers, because the plants are short-lived and the selling price of the harvest is quite stable. However, the development of tomato plants in this region is still constrained by the high demand for plant water (KAT), because there are not many references. For this reason, this study aims to determine the amount of water needed for tomato planting and other parameters for each growth phase (f). The study is conducted on a land measuring 7m x 28 m, the size of the beds around 0.75 m x 28 m, the source of water from a tank with a capacity of 1600m3 and drip irrigation for crop irrigation. KBT analysis used a formula (Caoli, 1967), with analysis data from field data when planting tomatoes, so the results of the study are expected to be more realistic to address these obstacles in the development of tomato plants in the district of North Lombok. KAT analysis results with the Caolli formula show, for once irrigation in the initial phase (f1) around 0.738 m3, the active vegetative phase (f2) around 1.667 m3 and the fertilization phase until maturation of the initial fruit (f3) around 3.087 m3. The amount of soil moisture (w) additional irrigation in each phase is for f1 around 4% -5%, f2 around 6.5% -12% and f3 around 12% -17%. The duration of drip irrigation by 40 minutes needs to be shortened in phase f1, for phase f2 the duration is sufficient, and in phase f3 the duration needs to be added by more than 40 minutes or the irrigation schedule is shortened to less than 4.
IMPLEMENTASI MANAJEMEN KUALITAS DAN FAKTOR-FAKTOR YANG MEMPENGARUHI KEPUASAN PELANGGAN PDAM LOMBOK TENGAH
Authors: W L. WIRAHMAN , WARKA I GEDE PUTU , SIDEMAN I.A.O SUWATI
Published: March 2020

Drinking water is one of human’s primary needs that must be fulfilled in term of quantity and quality. PDAM Lombok Tengah is a local company that provided the drinking water service for all 12 districts in central Lombok. Praya City is the biggest area of service that coverage 71,83% of costumers of PDAM Lombok Tengah. Therefore this area should be given the most concern in term of services quality. Complains that have been sent by costumers towards PDAM Lombok Tengah is indicating the dissatisfaction in services. PDAM Lombok Tengah must be able to examine the conditions and phenomena in the community related to factors that affect the satisfaction of its customers, and then respond with the implementation of adequate quality management. According to the research that has been done the highest average score of quality management implementation rate is 75,88%, this score is implied by using and communicating costumers information. The Satisfaction rate of domestic costumers of PDAM Lombok Tengah in Praya City is shown to be satisfied enough with average rate of 64,167%. This rate is influenced by water quality, water continuity, water pressure, water’s meter condition, maintenance, billing and payment system, services cost, and water quality