bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malaria Parasites Detection Using Deep Neural Network
Authors: Jena Biswajit , Thakar Pulkit , Nayak Vedanta , Nayak Gopal Krishna , Saxena Sanjay
Published: August 2020

Malaria is a dreadful infectious disease caused by the bite of female Anopheles mosquito, by the protozoan parasites of the genus Plasmodium. It's an epidemic disease and demands rapid and accurate diagnosis for proper intervention. Microscopic test on the thick and thin blood smear to detect the malaria and counts the infected cells is the gold standard for diagnosis of this disease. An automation process in the form of computer-aided diagnosis is much needed as it plays a vital role in fully or semi-automated diagnosis of diseases based on medical image information. Deep learning has vast ranging applications. This work is to build a convolutional neural network to expertly detect the presence of malaria parasitized cells in the thin blood smear. The authors construct the model as small and computationally efficient to obtain the highest level of accuracy possible.
Customer Switching Behavior Towards Mobile Number Portability
Authors: Patro Chandra Sekhar
Published: August 2020

The telecom services have been an imperative means for socio-economic development of a country and a large contributor to the rapid growth and modernization of various sectors of the economy. In recent years, the mobile services are having enormous growth due to rapid changes in technology. The mobile users have the choice to switch from one telecom operator to another within the telecom circle without the change of phone number. The introduction to MNP promoted more competition in the telecom sector and forced service providers to improve service quality and reduce prices. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the factors influencing customer switching behaviour for using mobile number portability. The study identified that the respondents are not only aware of MNP but also know the procedure of using MNP. The results show that service payout, trustworthiness, responsiveness, and monetary value have a positive influence on customers to switch over other service providers whereas accessibility and technology do not have a positive influence on customer switching behaviour.
Enhancing the Mobility Support in Internet of Things
Authors: Sankar S.  , Srinivasan P.
Published: August 2020

Improving mobility support is a crucial task in low power and lossy networks (LLN). This article proposes an enhanced mobility support routing protocol (EM-RPL) to improve the mobility support for LLN. It has two processes, static node parent selection, and mobile node parent selection. The static node parent selection process uses the routing metrics, residual energy (RER), and load to choose the optimal parent for data transfer. The mobile node parent selection process has two phases, data transmission, and route discovery. Its handoff decision calculates from the received signal strength (RSSI) and packet error ratio (PER). The simulation is conducted using COOJA simulator. The performance of EM-RPL is compared with similar routing protocols. The simulation result shows that EM-RPL gives significant performance in terms of power consumption, latency, packet delivery ratio and packet overhead.
Measures of Linear and Nonlinear Interval-Valued Hexagonal Fuzzy Number
Authors: Khan Najeeb Alam , Razzaq Oyoon Abdul , Chakraborty Avishek , Mondal Sankar Parsad , Alam Shariful
Published: August 2020

In the view of significant exposure of multifarious interval-valued fuzzy numbers in neoteric studies, different measures of interval-valued generalized hexagonal fuzzy numbers (IVGHFN) associated with assorted membership functions (MF) are explored in this article. Considering the symmetricity and asymmetricity of the hexagonal fuzzy structures, the idea of MF is generalized a bit more, to nonlinear membership functions. The construction of level sets, accordingly for each case of linear and nonlinear MF are also carried out. In addition, the concepts of generalized Hukuhara (gH) differentiability for the interval-valued generalized hexagonal fuzzy functions (IVGHFF) are also the main features of this framework. Illustratively, the developed intellects are implemented on a logistic population growth problem, by taking ecological functions as IVGHFFs. For the further numerical demonstrations of the model, artificial neural network with simulated annealing (ANNSA) algorithm is utilized.
Novel Divergence Measure Under Neutrosophic Environment and Its Utility in Various Problems of Decision Making
Authors: Umar Adeeba , Saraswat Ram Naresh
Published: August 2020

This article develops a novel divergence measure for single valued neutrosophic sets with its validity proof to overcome the incapability of the existing divergence measures. The properties of proposed novel divergence measure for single valued neutrosophic sets are also discussed. Practical applications of proposed novel divergence measure for decision making in company selection and medical investigation are demonstrated through numerical illustrations. The comparison of novel divergence measure with the existing divergence measures under a neutrosophic environment is presented and the verification of validity test criteria is given to show that the proposed novel divergence measure is more intelligible and viable which works effectively than the other existing ones.
Task Allocation Model Based on Hierarchical Clustering and Impact of Different Distance Measures on the Performance
Authors: Kumar Harendra , Tyagi Isha
Published: August 2020

This article observed a new strategy to the problem of tasks clustering and allocation for very large distributed real-time problems, in which software is consolidated hierarchically and hardware potentially spans various shared or dedicated links. Here, execution and communication times have been considered as a number. Existing strategies for tasks clustering and allocation are based on either executability or communication. This study's analytical model is a recurrence conjuration of two stages: formation of clusters and clusters allocation. A modified hierarchical clustering (MHC) algorithm is derived to cluster high communicated tasks and also an algorithm is developed for proper allocation of task clusters onto suitable processors in order to achieve optimal fuzzy response time and fuzzy system. Yang's and Hamming's distances are taken to demonstrate the impact of distance measures on the performance of the proposed model.
What Is Required to Be a Data Scientist?
Authors: Baumeister Filipe , Barbosa Marcelo Werneck , Gomes Rodrigo Richard
Published: August 2020

This study characterized required skills and competences for data specialist roles by analysing job advertisements for data scientists and other related professionals. It was performed using a content analysis technique named centring resonance analysis (CRA). With the support of this technique, demanded skills were grouped into categories that allow a better understanding of each role as well as differences and similarities among roles were observed and analysed. This study also summarized our findings in an orientation framework to classify six data specialists' roles according to business and technical skills as well as to experience and educational demands. Professional experience seems, in general, to be more valued than academic background. This work sheds light on better differentiating job roles related to data science, which could guide companies that recruit such specialists by better defining job requirements. For universities, these findings support the development of new analytics and data science programs.
Hedonic and Utilitarian Propositions of Mobile Data Services in Sri Lanka
Authors: Gunawardana Kennedy D.
Published: August 2020

This research article investigates the adoption of mobile data services with utilitarian and hedonic value propositions in Sri Lanka. This study attempts to develop a conceptually model and related hypotheses and its behavior within the Sri Lankan user context. The findings related to the perceived usefulness has reported that a strong relationship between the attitudes and adoption intension even in the context of products with predominantly hedonic values propositions. Further, it was noted that the utilitarian motives of usefulness, ease of use, and comparative advantage were more strongly present than hedonic motives even in mobile ringtone users. The utilitarian motives had strong correlations with the attitude towards attitudes and adoption intension.
Experimental animal models of post-traumatic osteoarthritis of the knee
Authors: Narez Gerardo E. , Fischenich Kristine M. , Donahue Tammy L. Haut
Published: August 2020

Due to the complex and dynamic nature of osteoarthritis (OA) and post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA), animal models have been used to investigate the progression and pathogenesis of the disease. Researchers have used different experimental models to study OA and PTOA. With an emphasis on the knee joint, this review will compare and contrast the existing body of knowledge from anterior cruciate ligament transection models, meniscectomy models, combination models, as well as impact models in large animals to see how tissues respond to these different approaches to induce experimental OA and PTOA. The tissues discussed will include articular cartilage and the meniscus, with a focus on morphological, mechanical and histological assessments. The goal of this review is to demonstrate the progressive nature of OA by indicating the strong correlation between progressive tissue degeneration, change of mechanical properties, and loss of biochemical integrity and to highlight key differences between the most commonly used experimental animal models.
How to improve the outcomes of surgically treated proximal humeral osteoporotic fractures? A narrative review
Authors: Cecere Antonio Benedetto , Toro Giuseppe , De Cicco Annalisa , Braile Adriano , Paoletta Marco , Iolascon Giovanni , Schiavone Panni Alfredo
Published: August 2020

Proximal humeral fractures (PHF) are the third most common non-vertebral fragility fractures after hip and distal radius. It still controversial which treatment might be more appropriate, and surgically treated outcomes depends also on an appropriate technique. In order to clarify surgical indications, tips and pitfall a narrative review was conducted. Pinning, external fixation, plating and internal fixators has each one its advantages and disadvantages. During the procedure an appropriate use of the fixation device and handling of the soft tissue might be associated with better outcomes. Calcar comminution, varus angulation, medial dislocation of the shaft, fracture-dislocation are factors that could lead to choose a replacement. Hemiarthroplasty and reverse total shoulder arthroplasty are the most common prosthesis used in PHF. The restoration of humeral length and tuberosities might lead to an improvement in clinical outcomes and prosthesis survivorship.
Two-stage revision arthroplasty in the treatment of periprosthetic hip infections with severe bone loss: Results from 182 cases
Authors: Białecki Jerzy , Kogut Maciej , Chaberek Sławomir , Bartosz Paweł , Obrębski Marcin , Marczyński Wojciech , Para Marcin
Published: August 2020

The optimum treatment for periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) of the hip with substantial bone defects remains controversial. A retrospective assessment was performed for 182 patients treated for PJI with a two-stage protocol from 2005 to 2015. Implant removal and debridement were followed by Girdlestone arthroplasty or spacer implantation. The results of the Girdlestone and spacer groups were compared. There were 71 cases that received spacers, and 111 Girdlestone procedures were performed. After the first stage, 26.37% of cultures were negative, and among patients with a detected pathogen, methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus was the most common organism (41.79%). Acetabular and femoral bone defects, according to the Paprosky classification, were more severe in the Girdlestone group (P<0.05). During the follow-up (mean, 5.95 years), the overall incidence of complications was 21.42%. The mean Harris hip score was significantly lower in the Girdlestone group (68.39 vs 77.79; P<0.0001). The infection recurrence rate reached 8.79%. Despite satisfactory infection control, the number of complications and poor functional outcomes associated with resection arthroplasty indicate the necessity for development of different approaches for patients with advanced bone loss.
Covid-19 pandemic and pediatric healthcare policy in Italy: time for a change
Authors: Solarino Biagio , Aricò Maurizio
Published: August 2020

The outbreak of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic forced the Italian Government to act extreme measures that put the entire country under lockdown. The citizens experimented a radical transformation of their lives while the healthcare system started building a novel COVID-system that quickly dissolved the former organization, included pediatric healthcare network. For a number of reasons COVID-19 pandemic is polite with children; however, the fear of this unknown disease drove to develop dedicated pathways in the Pediatric Emergency Departments for the suspected and diagnosed cases of COVID-19, together with their relatives. The combination of conflicting feelings resulted in an unexpected scenario: the number of accesses to the pediatric Hospital or Unit(s) sharply dropped to less than half. How do we explain this phenomenon? The authors believe that our health care system may learn a lesson from the catastrophe of COVID, if we will be able to redesign our way of providing our cares to children. Nothing should be taken for granted, because this might be a real “time for a change”.
Sequential Treatment with an Immune Checkpoint Inhibitor Followed by a Small-Molecule Targeted Agent Increases Drug-Induced Pneumonitis
Authors: Jung Jongheon , Kim Hyae Young , Kim Dong-Gil , Park Seog Yun , Ko A Ra , Han Ji-Youn , Kim Heung Tae , Lee Jin Soo , Lee Youngjoo
Published: August 2020

PurposeImmune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI) and targeted small-molecule drugs are mainstay elements of lung cancer chemotherapy. However, they are associated with development of pneumonitis, a rare, but potentially life-threatening event. We analyzed lung cancer patients treated with ICI to evaluate the effect of sequential therapeutic administration on the incidence of pneumonitis. Materials and MethodsIn this retrospective study, 242 patients were included. Serial radiologic findings taken during and immediately after ICI treatment were reviewed. Factors that increased pneumonitis and the relationship between peri-ICI chemotherapy and the development of pneumonitis were evaluated. ResultsPneumonitis developed in 23 patients (9.5%); severe pneumonitis (grade ≥ 3) occurred in 13 of 23 patients (56%); pneumonitis-related death occurred in six. High-dose thoracic radiation (≥ 6,000 cGy) revealed a tendency toward high risk of pneumonitis (odds ratio, 2.642; 95% confidence interval, 0.932 to 7.490; p=0.068). Among 149 patients followed for ≥ 8 weeks after the final ICI dose, more patients who received targeted agents within 8-weeks post-ICI experienced pneumonitis (3/16, 18.8%) compared with patients who received cytotoxic agents (4/54, 7.4%) or no chemotherapy (4/79, 5.1%) (p=0.162). Targeted therapy was associated with earlier-onset pneumonitis than treatment with cytotoxic agents (35 vs. 62 days post-ICI, p=0.007); the resulting pneumonitis was more severe (grade ≥ 3, 100% vs. 0%, p=0.031).ConclusionSequential administration of small-molecule targeted agents immediately after ICI may increase the risk of severe pneumonitis. The sequence of chemotherapy regimens that include ICI and targeted agents should be carefully planned to reduce the risk of pneumonitis in lung cancer patients.
Incidence of leaf blight disease of Egusi melon in South-west Nigeria
Authors: Ogunsola J.F. , Ikotun B. , Ogunsola K.E.
Published: August 2020

Egusi melon (Citrullus lanatus (Thumb) Mansf.) is an important vegetable crop grown for edible seeds and oil in West Africa. Leaf Blight Disease (LBD) is one of the major constraints to its production, with potential to cause economic damage. The objective of this study was to investigate the incidence and distribution of leaf blight on Egusi melon in Southwestern Nigeria. A survey of LBD of Egusi melon was conducted in 2015 and 2016, in five southwestern States of Nigeria (Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti and Ondo States). Twenty plants each, were randomly sampled from 150 farms comprising 30 farms each, from each State. The distribution of different Egusi melon varieties planted was recorded. “Bara” cv. was the most cultivated variety (51.6%); followed by “Bojuri” (30.4%) and “Serewe” (18%). Leaf blight was observed in most farms in the five States, from 73% in Osun and Oyo states to 83% in Ondo State. Disease incidence and severity varied with locations and cultivars, and ranged from 0.0-87.5±18% and 1.0±0-4.5±0.8 in Osun State to 20.0±19 - 95.0±4.5% and 2.3±1.5 - 5.0±0 in Ondo State. Out of the twelve fungal pathogens from ten genera isolated from infected plants, only Colletotrichum truncatum, C. gloeosporioides and Lasiodiplodia theobromae caused Leaf blight on Egusi melon.

Key words: Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Colletotrichum truncatum, Lasiodiplodia theobromae
Development of a prioritised checklist of crop wild relatives for conservation in Malawi
Authors: Mponya N.K. , Magombo Z.L.K. , Pungulani L. , Brehm J.M. , Maxted N.
Published: August 2020

The national increase in human population in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) demands for more food; while increase in the impact of climate change, demands for resilient agricultural production systems, and both call for improved agricultural productivity. Plant breeders will need adaptive traits to improve crop productivity and resilience. Crop wild relatives (CWR) have the potential to offer the much needed diversity for crop improvement, but their diversity is inadequately conserved. Lack of knowledge about their occurrence in Malawi, limits their systematic conservation and utilisation. Developing a CWR national inventory helps to define conservation priorities and actions. The objective of this study was to match checklists of crop genera and national flora, using their taxonomic and genetic relatedness information. This resulted into the first comprehensive annotated checklist of 446 CWR taxa in Malawi, which was prioritised by a set of criteria previously agreed with national stakeholders based on socio-economic importance of the related crop, potential use of the wild relative in crop improvement and threat status. The inventory comprises of 277 CWR taxa, identified as priority for conservation in Malawi; of which 78% were native. These belong to 56 genera and are related to 54 food, fodder, spices and beverage crops; and include taxa related to crops of regional and global importance. Eighty-seven taxa of highest priority for conservation were further identified, 12.6% of which have confirmed uses in crop improvement on pests and disease resistance, drought tolerance and yielding ability. The inventory will facilitate effective conservation and availability of these taxa for their use in crop improvement.

Key words: Annotated checklist, national inventory, systematic conservation
Incidence of fungi and aflatoxin contamination of maize in Tolon-Kumbungu district of Ghana
Authors: Aklaku E.K. , Sowley E.N.K. , Ofosu M.
Published: August 2020

Maize (Zea mays L.) is an important staple food crop and a source of income to farmers, as well as foreign exchange earner in most countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Its production is hampered by fungal diseases, which also cause contamination with mycotoxins, especially aflatoxin and its associated health hazards. This study sought to isolate and identify aflatoxigenic fungi, as well as detect the presence of Aflatoxin B1 (AfB1) in maize samples obtained from farmers in the Tolon-Kumbungu district in the northern region of Ghana. Twenty farming communities were randomly selected for the study in consultation with the district office of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MoFA). Samples were collected from 200 randomly selected maize farmers by the composite sampling technique, for isolation of aflatoxigenic fungi by the agar plate method and the detection of aflatoxin. Aflatoxin was detected in maize samples with the Black light, rapid screening and immunoassay methods. Aspergillus flavus had the highest percentage of occurrence (63.7%); followed by A. niger (16.5%), Rhizopus stolonifer (9.3%), Penicillium spp. (6.9%) and Fusarium oxysporum (3.7%). Farm samples had more aflatoxin than those from stores and markets. Samples of maize from farms in Gbirimani community had the highest aflatoxin contamination of +60 ppb. Concentrations of Afb1 at or above +20 ppb were recorded in all the communities, except in Tinguli. Apart from Voggu, all market samples were free from aflatoxin contamination.

Key words: Aflatoxigenic fungi, postharvest, Zea mays
LA CONTINUIDAD DE NEGOCIO EN LAS INSTITUCIONES DE EDUCACIÓN SUPERIOR DEL ECUADOR. CASO DE ESTUDIO.
Authors: Angulo-Murillo Navira , Cárdenas-Encalada Jhoanna , Bolaños-Burgos Francisco
Published: August 2020

El presente artículo tiene como objetivo evaluar el nivel de madurez del sistema de gestión de continuidad del negocio de una universidad del sector público. Se aplicó un instrumento de valoración revisado por expertos, a fin de evaluar el cumplimiento por cláusulas y dimensiones: contexto de la organización (4), liderazgo (3), planeación (3), apoyo (5), operación (5), evaluación de desempeño (3) y mejoramiento (2). Las interrogantes fueron valoradas mediante una escala de Likert de cinco niveles (Inexistente (0), Inicial (1), Repetible (2), Administrado (3), Optimizado (4). El análisis de los resultados se realizó por cláusula y de manera general. Los resultados evidencian que el nivel de madurez de la gestión de continuidad del negocio de la universidad es 0. Por otra parte, con este estudio se muestra la necesidad de establecer un instrumento que permita validar la continuidad de negocio en instituciones de educación superior, lo cual disminuye el sesgo que tienen los instrumentos que se usan en otras organizaciones con diferentes ámbitos de negocio, lo que facilitará la implementación de un SGCN en este tipo de organizaciones educativas. Palabras clave: SGCN, continuidad de negocio, plan de contingencia, ISO 22301.
Moisés como incircunciso de lábios (Ex 6,12.20)
Authors: Grenzer Matthias , Dantas José Ancelmo Santos
Published: August 2020

Após ter afirmado “não ser um homem de palavras” e ter-se descrito como alguém com “peso de boca” e “peso de língua” (Ex 4,10), Moisés se diz duas vezes “incircunciso de lábios” (Ex 6,12.20). Esta última metáfora será objeto de investigações exegéticas no estudo aqui apresentado. Nesse sentido, ora se visa ao contexto da macronarrativa exodal e à obra literária do Pentateuco, ora se busca a compreensão da configuração poética dos dois pequenos diálogos entre o Senhor, Deus de Israel, e Moisés, nos quais aparece a expressão “incircunciso de lábios” (Ex 6,10-12.29-30), a fim de compreender o que tal imagem, à primeira vista enigmática, provavelmente traz consigo de reflexão teológica.
São João da Cruz e Raul Seixas: diálogos entre poesia e teologia
Authors: Sbardelotti Emerson
Published: August 2020

Dentro das categorias da Música Popular Brasileira, o Rock Brasileiro tem um antes e um depois de Raul Seixas, ele é tido por muitos como o inventor do rock brasileiro. A inquietude de sua música, a beleza de suas letras, que beiram à profecia, construídas a partir de intuições de alguém que analisa a realidade sem abrir mão de ser fiel ao que está experimentando, auscultando e enxergando. Neste artigo busco apresentar uma reflexão entre a letra da canção Água Viva, do álbum Gita, com o poema de São João da Cruz: Cantar da Alma que se regozija de conhecer a Deus pela Fé; tento entender como um artista popular pode ser útil e necessário para uma Teologia em diálogo com a Poesia e com a Literatura. Esse mistério divino é seu aliado na busca da felicidade. Ao cantar uma mensagem profundamente permeada de vida, em uma realidade de morte.
Resilience And Aggression Of Adolescents, Early And Middle-Aged Adults: Analyzing Gender Differences
Authors: Naseem Sabahat , Munaf Seema
Published: August 2020

The present study aimed to analyze gender difference in resilience and aggression of three developmental stages (adolescence, early adulthood, and middle adulthood). For this, comparative research design was utilized. Through purposive sampling, 600 participants (Mage = 28.24 years, SD = 12.12) with males and females equal in number; were selected from different regions of Karachi, Pakistan. Participants’ demographic information was collected through Respondent Information Form. Resilience and aggression were measured using The Brief Resilience Scale and Short Form of the Buss-Perry Aggression Questionnaire, respectively. Data was analyzed through independent samples t-test using SPSS. Results indicated that overall, resilience was significantly higher in males. In adolescence and early adulthood, resilience was higher in males than females, however, in middle adulthood, insignificant gender difference was noted in resilience. Further, overall non-significant gender difference was found in aggression; nevertheless, physical aggression was significantly higher in males, whereas, anger was higher in females. Moreover, insignificant gender difference was also found in aggression concerning the three age groups. This study would help in understanding the role of gender in resilience and aggression in different developmental stages. Additionally, it would assist in developing gender and age specific programs for fostering resilience and managing aggression.
A possibilidade de utilização do blog como ferramenta educacional
Authors: Vieira Eline Sahade Magalhães , Belo Priscila Alves De Paula , Freire Vitória Chérida Costa
Published: August 2020

O presente artigo tem o objetivo de discutir como o uso das Tecnologias Digitais de Informação e Comunicação – TDIC –, tendo como foco o blog, favorece o processo educativo de ensino. A pesquisa qualitativa aliou revisão bibliográfica e aplicação de um questionário aos alunos do curso de Pedagogia da Universidade Estadual do Ceará, para evidenciar os seguintes enfoques: o conhecimento do aluno acerca do blog, o uso do blog na vida acadêmica, a percepção avaliativa do blog no contexto educacional e a utilização do blog nas disciplinas do curso de Pedagogia. Os resultados constataram que os alunos dos anos iniciais do curso tiveram pouco ou nenhum contato com essa ferramenta, e aqueles que a utilizaram demonstraram insatisfação acerca da abordagem pedagógica. Consideramos a necessidade de formação docente para utilização das TDIC no âmbito educacional e de reflexões acerca de possibilidades metodológicas que contribuam para a aprendizagem significativa na sociedade atual.
Optimalisasi Penegakan Hukum Pidana Terhadap Tindak Pidana Perikanan (Studi Perbandingan Hukum Pidana Di Bidang Perikanan)
Authors: Fadillah Astuti Nur , Al Aspary Muhammad Insan Anshari
Published: August 2020

For the fisheries sector in Indonesia, Law No. 31 of 2004 Jo. Law No. 45 of 2009 concerning Fisheries and in the Philippines the 1998 Philippine Fisheries Code applies, which is a regulation governing prison administration. Indonesian fisheries law has not yet enacted a ban on rare and endangered species. The Philippine fisheries law does not yet impose legal sanctions to cancel permit documents. The formulation of an emergency prison sentence or a Philippine fisheries law fine is relatively heavier than Indonesia. For the concept of accountability of the court by the two countries still imposes court responsibility only on corporate management. Law enforcement in the field of fisheries in Indonesia and the Philippines can be more effective on the prohibition of certain activities or activities related to liability related to relationships that can be accounted for, so that they can be accounted for in the right way, to help and overcome problems related to fisheries.
A Novel Hybrid Dragonfly Algorithm with Modified Conjugate Gradient Method
Authors: Khaleel Layth Riyadh , Mitras Ban Ahmed
Published: August 2020

Dragonfly Algorithm (DA) is a meta-heuristic algorithm, It is a new algorithm proposed by Mirjalili in (2015) and it simulate the behavior of dragonflies in their search for food and migration. In this paper, a modified conjugate gradient algorithm is proposed by deriving new conjugate coefficient. The sufficient descent and the global convergence properties for the proposed algorithm are proved. Novel hybrid algorithm of the dragonfly (DA) was proposed with modified conjugate gradient Algorithm which develops the elementary society that is randomly generated as the primary society for the dragonfly optimization algorithm using the characteristics of the modified conjugate gradient algorithm. The efficiency of the hybrid algorithm was measured by applying it to (10) of the optimization functions of high measurement with different dimensions and the results of the hybrid algorithm were very good in comparison with the original algorithm
Foundations of Interior Design
Authors: Slotkis Susan J.
Published: August 2020

Foundations of Interior Design, 3rd edition, offers a thorough update to this introduction to the creative, technical and business aspects of the interior design profession. By surveying design history, the elements and principles of design, professional practice, and more, Susan Slotkis provides a practical and comprehensive overview. This new edition provides a wide range of examples of design in different styles and applications. Projects and applications designed by both individuals and as collaborative efforts locally and globally are featured, from rural America to modern Dubai. The contribution of many interior designers, those who work independently or as part of large firms is demonstrated in the choice of illustrations and case studies. They represent a balance of small and large, simple and complex, and residential and contract from throughout the United States and abroad.
Environmental Psychology for Design
Authors: Kopec Dak
Published: August 2020

How does a room affect an occupant's behavior and well-being? How does a building influence its residents' health? Environmental Psychology for Design, 3rd Edition, explores these questions with an in-depth look at psychosocial responses to the built environment. Awarded the 2006 ASID Joel Polsky Prize, the first edition served as an introduction to the discipline of environmental psychology and inspired readers to embrace its key concepts and incorporate them into their practice. This 3rd edition continues to analyze the interaction between environments and human behavior and well-being, while exploring how individual differences related to age, gender, and cultural background impact that interaction.
Design Portfolios
Authors: Bender ,   Ph.d. Diane M.
Published: August 2020

Today’s students of architecture, interior design, and landscape design need to master the art of marketing themselves via multiple print and digital formats. This third edition of Design Portfolios reflects contemporary portfolio practices and enables students to create portfolios that serve as both evolving collections of creative solutions to design problems and evidence of their abilities to visually relay messages. Readers will learn how to create not just a collection of design work but a unique marketing tool for a successful design career.
Interior Design
Authors: Ankerson Katherine S. , Pable Jill
Published: August 2020

Interior Design: Practical Strategies for Teaching and Learning provides a pedagogical approach specifically geared to instruction in interior design. Combining theory with practical application and examples unique to the interior design discipline, the unifying theme of the book is achieving excellence in design education. For first-time teachers whose formal training as educators is more limited than their expertise in the discipline of interior design, this text serves as a primary, specialized resource. For both new and seasoned teachers, it is a handy, just-in-time reference for those sticky situations when one needs a fresh perspective in teaching an idea in a new way. The text is enriched by case studies; grading rubrics and student critiques; definitions of educational jargon; tables and graphs; photos of teaching-related activities and spaces; and a bibliography for further information on teaching and learning topics.
Perspective Drawing for Interior Space
Authors: Natale Christopher
Published: August 2020

Using step-by-step instructions together with line-colored drawings, Perspective Drawing for Interior Space offers procedural instruction that covers freehand and technical one-, two-, and three-point perspectives. This text begins with the basic fundamentals of perspective by utilizing geometric shapes (cubes, cones, pyramids) and then advances beyond the core skills, to creating furniture, and finally, complete interior spaces. Students will learn to use grids to help them draw scale and proportion in perspective. The text also teaches students to use floor plans and elevations to create these drawings.
Professional Practice for Interior Designers in the Global Marketplace
Authors: Winchip Susan M.
Published: August 2020

The interior designers of tomorrow require a professional practice text that is contemporary and innovative enough to prepare them for the rapidly evolving landscape of the 21st century workplace. Professional Practice for Interior Designers in the Global Marketplace arms students of the Millennial Generation with the know-how they'll need to launch and evolve their careers. It emphasizes the essential skills and knowledge required to work in a firm as an entry-level designer, while providing an overview of what is involved in starting, owning, and operating an interior design business. Although rooted in fundamentals, the book incorporates up-to-the-minute developments including globalization, changing demographics, the rise of networking technologies, sustainable design, social responsibility, and global economics
Studio Companion Series 3D Design Basics
Authors: Fullmer Donna Lynne
Published: August 2020

3D Design Basics explores basic three-dimensional options for presenting design ideas, including models, paraline drawings, and perspective drawings. Students will be exposed to a variety of model-building tools and methods and learn how to start designing with quick rip-and-tear models.
Visual Culture in the Built Environment
Authors: Winchip Susan M.
Published: August 2020

Visual Culture in the Built Environment: A Global Perspective provides an integrated survey of global interior environments and architecture, explaining significant design styles and movements from the mid-19th century to the present day. In addition to learning the characteristics and designers of a particular style or movement, students will learn how and why interior environments and architecture develop, including the impact of cultural and political events. In reflecting the emerging field of Visual Culture studies, this textbook expands upon traditional approaches to studying the history of interior environments and architecture by presenting content within the global interdisciplinary context of the arts, politics, technology, business, and economics.
Expected Credit Loss Modeling from a Top-Down Stress Testing Perspective
Authors: Gross Marco , Laliotis Dimitrios , Leika Mindaugas , Lukyantsau Pavel
Published: August 2020

The objective of this paper is to present an integrated tool suite for IFRS 9- and CECL-compatible estimation in top-down solvency stress tests. The tool suite serves as an illustration for institutions wishing to include accounting-based approaches for credit risk modeling in top-down stress tests.
Leaning Against the Wind
Authors: Brandao-Marques Luis , Gelos R. , Narita Machiko , Nier Erlend
Published: August 2020

This paper takes a new approach to assess the costs and benefits of using different policy tools—macroprudential, monetary, foreign exchange interventions, and capital flow management—in response to changes in financial conditions. The approach evaluates net benefits of policies using quadratic loss functions, estimating policy effects on the full distribution of future output growth and inflation with quantile regressions. Tightening macroprudential policy dampens downside risks to growth stemming from loose financial conditions, and is beneficial in net terms. By contrast, tightening monetary policy entails net losses, calling for caution in the use of monetary policy to “lean against the wind.” These findings hold when policies are used in response to easing global financial conditions. Buying foreign-exchange or tightening capital controls has small net benefits.
COVID-19 and Emerging Markets
Authors: Cakmakli Cem , Demiralp Selva , Kalemli-Ozcan Sebnem , Yesiltas Sevcan , Yildirim Muhammed
Published: August 2020

We quantify the macroeconomic effects of COVID-19 for a small open economy by calibrating a SIR-multi-sector-macro model. We measure sectoral supply shocks utilizing teleworking and physical job proximity, and demand shocks with credit card purchases. Both shocks are also affected from changing infection rates under different lockdown scenarios. Being an open economy amplifies the economic costs through two main channels. First, the demand shock has domestic and external components. Second, the initial shock is magnified due to domestic and international input-output linkages.
Remittances in Russia and Caucasus and Central Asia
Authors: Poghosyan Tigran
Published: August 2020

Remitances are an important source of external financing in low- and middle-income countries. This paper uses the gravity model to analyze remittance flows in Russia and Caucasus and Central Asia (CCA) countries. Standard gravity determinants, such as GDP in sending and recieiving countries, bilateral distance, existence of common borders and common official language, fit remittance flows well. Remittances also react to inflation and exchange rate movements in recipient countries to sustain their purchasing power. In line with the altruism hypothesis, remittances flow to countries with higher age dependency ratio. Remittances are countercyclical and help stabilize outputs in recipient countries. However, global shocks resulting in sharp output losses of sending countries would lead to large volatility and decline of remittance inflows in recipient countries. The results of the analysis can be used to assess the impact of the COVID-19 shock on projected remittance flows into CCA.
Measuring Social Unrest Using Media Reports
Authors: Barrett Philip , Appendino Maximiliano , Nguyen Kate , de Leon Miranda Jorge
Published: August 2020

We present a new index of social unrest based on counts of relevant media reports. The index consists of individual monthly time series for 130 countries, available with almost no lag, and can be easily and transparently replicated. Spikes in the index identify major events, which correspond very closely to event timelines from external sources for four major regional waves of social unrest. We show that the cross-sectional distribution of the index can be simply and precisely characterized, and that social unrest is associated with a 3 percentage point increase in the frequency of social unrest domestically and a 1 percent increase in neighbors in the next six months. Despite this, social unrest is not a better predictor of future social unrest than the country average rate.
Accounting for Cloud Computing in the National Accounts
Authors: Baer Andrew , Lee Kwangwon , Tebrake James
Published: August 2020

Digitalization and the innovative use of digital technologies is changing the way we work, learn, communicate, buy and sell products. One emerging digital technology of growing importance is cloud computing. More and more businesses, governments and households are purchasing hardware and software services from a small number of large cloud computing providers. This change is having an impact on how macroeconomic data are compiled and how they are interpreted by users. Specifically, this is changing the information and communication technology (ICT) investment pattern from one where ICT investment was diversified across many industries to a more concentrated investment pattern. Additionally, this is having an impact on cross-border flows of commercial services since the cloud service provider does not need to be located in the same economic territory as the purchaser of cloud services. This paper will outline some of the methodological and compilation challenges facing statisticians and analysts, provide some tools that can be used to overcome these challenges and highlight some of the implications these changes are having on the way users of national accounts data look at investment and trade in commercial services.
International Trade and Corporate Market Power
Authors: Gonzalez-Garcia Jesus , Yang Yuanchen
Published: August 2020

This paper examines the effect of international trade on corporate market power in emerging market economies and developing countries, with a special focus on sub-Saharan Africa. The analysis is based on a large firm-level dataset, tariff data by sector and agreggate indicators of international trade for the period 2000-17. Greater trade liberalization and trade integration are associated with significant declines in market power, with the effect being more pronounced for firms in the manufacturing and ICT sectors, private sector firms, and firms with higher initial markups. Firms in sub-Saharan Africa tend to experience signficantly lower markups after allowing greater trade integration. The effects of trade liberalization on market power materializes over time, and there are significant complementarities between trade reforms and real sector reforms.
Door-to-balloon time in the treatment of ST segment elevation myocardial infarction in a tertiary care center in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Butt Taimur Salar , Bashtawi Eyad , Bououn Badis , Wagley Bhawoodin , Albarrak Bandar , Sergani Hani El , Mujtaba Salman Ibn , Buraiki Jehad
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND:

Atherosclerotic heart disease is still a leading cause of mortality despite improvements in cardiovascular care. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is the recommended reperfusion therapy in acute ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), and the international guideline is to achieve a door-to-balloon (D2B) time within 90 minutes of patient arrival to an emergency department (ED).

OBJECTIVES:

Describe interventions, data for the study period, challenges in ensuring 24/7 patient access to PCI and quality indicators.

DESIGN:

Retrospective observational study.

SETTING:

Tertiary care institution in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

We included all acute coronary syndrome patients from 2010-2018 who presented or were transferred to our ED from nearby non-PCI capable hospitals, and for whom a ‘code heart’ was activated. Electronic medical records and the patient care report from the ambulance services were accessed for data collection.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

D2B time, readmission and mortality rate.

SAMPLE SIZE AND CHARACTERISTICS:

354 patients, mean age (standard deviation) 55.6 (12.6) years, males 84.5% (n=299).

RESULTS:

STEMI patients constituted 94% (n=334) of the study group; the others had non-STEMI or unstable angina. Hypertension (51%) was the most prevalent risk factor. Coronary artery stenting was the most frequent intervention (77.4%) followed by medical therapy (14.7%). The most common culprit artery was the left anterior descending (52.5%) followed by the right coronary artery (26.0%). A D2B time of within 90 minutes was achieved in over 85% of the patients in four of the years in the 278 patients who underwent PCI. The median D2B time (interquar-tile range) over 2010-2018 was 79 (31) minutes.

CONCLUSION:

Meeting the international benchmark of D2B time within 90 minutes for STEMI patients is achievable when the main stakeholders collaborate in patient-centric care. Our patient demographics represent regional trends.

LIMITATIONS:

Patient acceptance to our institution is based upon eligibility criteria. Transfer of ‘code heart’ patients from other institutions was carried out by our ambulance team. The credentials and experience of cardiologists, emergency physicians, and ambulance services are not standardized across the country. Therefore, the results may not be generalizable to other institutions.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST:

None.
Five-year outcomes for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy from a single center in Turkey
Authors: Seyit Hakan , Alis Halil
Published: August 2020

BACKGROUND:

There are no long-term results for laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) from Turkey.

OBJECTIVES:

Assess the outcomes of LSG at 5 years.

DESIGN:

Retrospective.

SETTING:

Training and research hospital.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

The study included patients with LSG performed from August 2012 to December 2013. The data was prospectively collected with the aim of providing 5-year outcomes.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Changes in percentage excessive weight loss (%EWI) and BMI. Changes in the pharmacological treatment status of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and hypertension.

SAMPLE SIZE AND CHARACTERISTICS:

120 patients (89 female) completed follow up; mean age 37 years (range, 19-63 years), mean preoperative BMI 48.3 kg/m
2
(range 40-80.4 kg/m
2
).

RESULTS:

After a mean 5.6-year follow-up, the mean (SD) postoperative weight loss was 43.5 (11.8) kg and the mean (SD) BMI loss was 16.1 (4.4). The mean %EWL value was 62.9% (range, 30-101%). Most patients (87.5%, n=105) achieved satisfactory %EWL values. The major complication rate was 6.6%. After surgery, 74.2% of patients taking medication for hypertension were able to stop treatment, while 12.9% reduced the dose, of patients that took medication for diabetes, all had a dosage reduction.

CONCLUSIONS:

We showed that LSG is an acceptable bariatric procedure, but in the long-term there may be weight gain and frequent reflux symptoms. We think renewed weight gain can be partially prevented by close clinical follow-up. There is a need for long-term randomized controlled studies with long-term follow-up to clearly define the indications for LSG.

LIMITATIONS:

Retrospective, incomplete clinical visits, GERD symptoms not objectively assessed.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST:

None.