bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nationwide airborne laser scanning based models for volume, biomass and dominant height in Finland
Authors: Kotivuori Eetu , Korhonen Lauri , Packalen Petteri
Published: July 2016

The aim of this study was to examine how well stem volume, above-ground biomass and dominant height can be predicted using nationwide airborne laser scanning (ALS) based regression models. The study material consisted of nine practical ALS inventory projects taken from different parts of Finland. We used field sample plots and airborne laser scanning data to create nationwide and regional models for each response variable. The final models had one or two ALS predictors, which were chosen based on the root mean square error (RMSE), and cross-validated. Finally, we tested how much predictions would improve if the nationwide models were calibrated with a small number of regional sample plots. Although forest structures differ among different parts of Finland, the nationwide volume and biomass models performed quite well (leave-inventory-area-out RMSE 22.3% to 33.8%, mean difference [MD] â13.8% to 18.7%) compared with regional models (leave-plot-out RMSE 20.2% to 26.8%). However, the nationwide dominant height model (RMSE 5.4% to 7.7%, MD â2.0% to 2.8%, with the exception of the Tornio region â RMSE 11.4%, MD â9.1%) performed nearly as well as the regional models (RMSE 5.2% to 6.7%). The results show that the nationwide volume and biomass models provided different means than real means at regional level, because forest structure and ALS device have a considerable effect on the predictions. Large MDs appeared especially in northern Finland. Local calibration decreased the MD and RMSE of volume and biomass models. However, the nationwide dominant height model did not benefit much from calibration.
Implementing and Using a Patient Portal: A qualitative exploration of patient and provider perspectives on engaging patients
Authors: Ryan Bridget L. , Brown Judith Belle , Terry Amanda , Cejic Sonny , Stewart Moira , Thind Amardeep
Published: July 2016

Background The use of portals might be expected to rise; however, adoption has been slow. Development of portals has occurred with limited patient involvement. This paper fills a need for literature concerning perspectives regarding the value of portals, how best to organize and provide portals, and critically how to seek patient involvement in implementation.ObjectiveThe objective was to explore the feelings, ideas, and expectations of patients and primary care providers concerning the implementation and use of patient portals.MethodsThe study employed a descriptive qualitative design interviewing seven patients and four providers from an interdisciplinary primary health care clinic in Ontario, Canada. Patients were older with at least one chronic condition. Interviews were analysed independently by three coders who then met to synthesize the findings.ResultsThere was limited experience of portals and substantial convergence between patients and providers regarding concerns and potential benefits with an overall positive view. Four themes emerged: 1) the Context in which patient portal use takes place; 2) the Necessary conditions for use of a patient portal; 3) the Implementation of a patient portal; and 4) the Use of a patient portal for care.ConclusionFindings highlight that it is not sufficient to engage patients in the use of a portal; it is critical that patients be engaged in the early stages of implementation. With many health and fitness electronic tools available (e.g. Fitbit©), this study remind us that tools are not enough. Patient engagement requires patient-centred partnerships between patients and health care providers.
Effects of different polishing systems on the surface roughness of two ceromers
Authors: Durães Iris , Macêdo Giulian Lennon , Carvalho Cristal Fernandez , Oliveira Viviane Maia Barreto , Lima Emilena Maria Castor Xisto
Published: July 2016

Objective: This in vitro study evaluated the effects of three polishing systems on the surface roughness of two ceromers. Material and Methods: 96 specimens (8 mm in diameter and 2 mm thick) were prepared in a metal mold using two restorative materials: CERAMAGE (Shofu, Japan) and VMLC VITA (VITA Zahnfabrik, Germany). The specimens were divided into 4 groups (n=12): G1: positive control, Mylar strip; G2: abrasive tips, Edenta system; G3: silicon tips, Enhance system; and G4: abrasive tips, Shofu system. The parameter evaluated was the average surface roughness (Ra) determined by using a profilometer SJ 301 (Mitutoyo, Japan), followed by photographic evaluation images through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), with a 1000x magnification range. The data was subjected to statistical analysis for comparison between the groups (ANOVA, Tukey and Student T-tests), with a significance level of 5%. Results: there was a statistically significant difference between the silicone tip Enhance and the other groups for both ceromers with higher values of surface roughness. There was no statistically significant difference between the ceromers, except for the Shofu system, which showed lower values of surface roughness for Vita VMLC. Conclusion: Within the limitations of this study, it was concluded that the Edenta and Shofu abrasive tips are more effective in reducing the surface roughness of ceromers compared with the Enhance silicone tip.Keywords: Resins; Surface roughness; Dental polishing.
Gerodontology as a dental specialty in Brazil: What has been accomplished after 15 years?
Authors: Marchini Leonardo , Montenegro Fernando Luiz Brunetti , Ettinger Ronald
Published: July 2016

Fifteen years ago, as a response to its rapidly aging population, Brazil was the first country to recognize gerodontology as a dental specialty. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the outcomes of this change by examining the increase in number of advanced gerodontology-trained dentists and identifying the volume of gerodontology-related research that has been published. The Brazilian Dental Board web site was searched in order to verify the number of specialists in gerodontology and their geographic distribution. In order to provide a quantitative assessment of the number of gerodontology-related graduate programs generated since the specialty was recognized, three sites were searched: a) the government database for post-graduate theses, which compiles all theses and dissertations completed as part of the requirements of accredited post-graduate courses in Brazil; b) the Brazilian Dental Library (Biblioteca Brasileira de Odontologia, BBO), which compiles papers published in Portuguese; and c) the PubMed database. Recognizing gerodontology as a dental specialty in Brazil required advanced training programs to be developed in geriatrics and gerodontology. The current number of specialists in gerodontology (276) is still lower than the needs of the Brazilian dental workforce.. Recognition of the specialty seems to have resulted in a significant increase in gerodontology-related research; however, this growth coincides with an overall increase in research in Brazil and is less extensive than for other specialties, which were recognized at the same time. More still needs to be done to add  gerodontology to dental school curricula, even though a significant number of schools do teach the discipline.
The strategy of obesity management: the results of All-Russian observational program “Primavera”
Authors: Dedov Ivan I. , Mel'nichenko Galina A. , Romantsova Tat'yana I.
Published: July 2016

Introduction. The prevalence of obesity and associated comorbidities is comparable to the scale of the epidemic. Along with the change in lifestyle, pharmacotherapy is necessary to lead obesity patients to a healthier state.Aim. The evaluation of efficacy and safety of Reduxin® (sibutramine + microcrystalline cellulose) application among patients with alimentary obesity and comorbidities in routine clinical practice. Analysis of results of Primavera program.Materials and methods. The observation program Primavera was conducted since November 2012 to July 2015 under the auspices ofEndocrinology Research Centre and the Russian Association of Endocrinologists. The program "Primavera" was attended by 3095 doctors of various specialties and 98.774 patients being treated in 1272 hospitals in 142 Russian cities. The average age of the patients was 39.4 ± 10.4 years, the ratio of male / female – 17.7%/82,3%, the average body mass – 99.1±14.28 kg, the average BMI – 35.7±4.41 kg/m2, the average waist circumstance – 105.7±13.7 cm. The Duration of Reduxine® treatment was determined by the attending physician and ranged from 3 months to 1 year.Results. The duration of therapy was 3 months for 3% of patients, 6 months for 59.3% of patients, 12 months for 37.7% of patients. The BMI reducing dynamics during 3, 6, 12 months was 3.4±1.53 kg/m2 (average 9.5±4.28 kg), 5.4±2.22 kg/m2 (15.0±6.22 kg), 7.2±3.07 kg/m2 (20.0±8.62 kg) respectively. The average waist circumference reduction for 3, 6 and 12 months was 6.3±4.31 sm, 10.6±6.30 sm, 16.0±8.94 sm, respectively. It was shown that the weight loss during prolonged (more than six months) Reduxine therapy under the supervision of a physician was associated with decreased levels of systolic and diastolic blood pressure and had no affect on heart rate. Adverse events were reported for 4.1% of patients, according to doctors, the cause-effect relationship with the use of Reduxine can be estimated as probable or definite for 1.9% of patients, possible – for 1.7%.Conclusions. Observation programs allow to implement the principles of active monitoring of the efficacy and safety of the drug in the current clinical practice and to develop a skill of reasonable prescribing. In Primavera program it was shown that the use of Reduxine® (sibutramine+ microcrystalline cellulose) leads to loss of body weight and doesn’t lead to serious adverse effects.
The evolution and evaluation of an online role play through design-based research
Authors: Beckmann Elizabeth Ann , Mahanty Sango
Published: July 2016

This paper presents selected findings from a 5-year design-based research case study of the evolution of an online role play that allows postgraduate students to explore the complexities inherent in land rights negotiations between indigenous peoples and others. In the context of Laurillard’s (2002) conversational framework and a design-based research methodology, diverse private and public discussion forum spaces were created for group negotiations on a learning management system (LMS) platform. Our analysis of the conversational framework structure in the evolved role play showed that all four stages – discursive, adaptive, integrative, and reflective – were evidenced, with the adaptive and integrative stages cycling through multiple times. The online role play, whilst implemented as a simple virtual world, facilitated personal, deep and socialised learning experiences focused on consultation, negotiation and decision-making. We also found that student anonymity was not necessary for full engagement in role play, and that students chose to incorporate communication technologies outside the LMS into their learning activities. This research shows that with a strong pedagogical design, and attention paid to an evidence-based iterative improvement cycle, online role plays can provide powerful collaborative learning experiences.
Customer Satisfaction and Long-Term Stock Returns
Authors: Sorescu Alina , Sorescu Sorin M.
Published: July 2016

The authors reexamine the relation between customer satisfaction (measured by the American Customer Satisfaction Index) and long-term stock returns using statistical tests that are well specified in the presence of industry clustering. Their results are consistent with those of Fornell, Morgeson, and Hult (2016) , who find positive abnormal stock returns for companies with high levels of customer satisfaction. However, the authors also identify three caveats that could affect the robustness of this conclusion. First, the results critically depend on the manner in which industry is defined. Second, because Fornell, Morgeson, and Hult use a proprietary trading strategy that has not been disclosed to the general public, the authors are unable to discern what fraction of their reported performance is due to customer satisfaction as opposed to other characteristics of the trading strategy. Finally, because the authors also find positive abnormal returns for the entire American Customer Satisfaction Index sample, at least some of the performance reported by Fornell, Morgeson, and Hult might be driven by sample characteristics unrelated to customer satisfaction. This article also provides useful guidance for measuring long-term abnormal returns in the presence of industry clustering.
Satisfaction (Mis)pricing Revisited: Real? Really Big?
Authors: Bharadwaj Sundar G. , Mitra Debanjan
Published: July 2016

The question of whether customer satisfaction is mispriced by the stock market has been debated over the past decade, yet it remains unintegrated with the broader asset pricing literature. The authors critique Fornell, Morgeson, and Hult (2016) , focusing on that article's missed opportunities in addressing theoretical lacuna and empirical challenges that might establish the satisfaction mispricing anomaly. In doing so, they distinguish mispricing from value relevance, classify two broad avenues for satisfaction mispricing research, and detail the scope of future research under each avenue. They conclude by summarizing specific research opportunities and presenting implications for managers, investors, and educators that could lead marketing to become a net contributor to the marketing–finance dialogue.
Do Disclosures of Customer Metrics Lower Investors’ and Analysts’ Uncertainty but Hurt Firm Performance?
Authors: Bayer Emanuel , Tuli Kapil R. , Skiera Bernd
Published: July 2016

Investors, analysts, and regulators frequently advocate greater disclosure of nonfinancial information, such as customer metrics. Managers, however, argue that such metrics are costly to report, reveal sensitive information to competitors, and therefore will lower future cash flows. To examine these counterarguments, this study presents the first empirical examination of the prevalence and consequences of backward- and forward-looking disclosures of customer metrics by manually coding 511 annual reports of firms in two industries, telecommunications (365 reports) and airlines (146 reports). The results reveal significant heterogeneity in the disclosure of customer metrics across firms and between industries. On average, in both industries, firms make more backward-looking than forward-looking disclosures. Notably, forward-looking disclosures of customer metrics are negatively associated with investors’ uncertainty in both industries and with analysts’ uncertainty in the telecommunications industry. Importantly, the results do not support the managerial thesis that such disclosures have a negative impact on future cash flows.
Elektronische Laborbücher im Forschungsdatenmanagement – Eine neue Aufgabe für Bibliotheken?
Authors: Krause Evamaria
Published: July 2016

Traditionell wird in den Naturwissenschaften und der Medizin der Forschungsprozess in Papier-Laborbüchern dokumentiert. Gegenwärtig steigt an Universitäten das Interesse an elektronischen Laborbüchern (ELN), da ELN immer besser an die Bedarfe der akademischen Forschung angepasst werden. In diesem Artikel werden die Herangehensweisen zur Schaffung eines ELN-Angebots an drei Universitäten in den USA und in Schottland sowie ELN-Projekte in Deutschland vorgestellt. Dabei werden Schnittstellen von ELN zu Aspekten der Speicherung, Nachnutzung, Veröffentlichung und Langzeitarchivierung von Forschungsdaten herausgestellt und mögliche Aufgabenfelder für Bibliotheken diskutiert.
Universitätsbibliotheken in den Niederlanden und veränderte Nutzerbedürfnisse
Authors: Malitz Doreen , Gilb Cornelia
Published: July 2016

Während einer Bibliotheksreise1

Gefördert durch BI International.

in die Niederlande sammelten Bibliothekare der Universitätsbibliothek Johann Christian Senckenberg Frankfurt am Main Eindrücke bezüglich Bau, Lernraumgestaltung und struktureller Neuorientierung in den Bibliotheken UB Leiden, UB Rotterdam, TU Delft Library und Wageningen UR Library. Auch wenn ein direkter Vergleich mit der Heimatbibliothek aus vielerlei Gesichtspunkten nicht möglich ist, ergaben sich aus den gesammelten Eindrücken gute Impulse, die sicher auch in die künftige Neubauplanung für die UB JCS einfließen werden.
Ein neuer offener Standard für Bildrepositorien – das International Image Interoperability Framework (IIIF) im Einsatz an der Bayerischen Staatsbibliothek
Authors: Brantl Markus , Eichinger Ralf , Wolf Thomas
Published: July 2016

Seit den Anfängen der Digitalisierung von Kulturgütern in den späten 1990er Jahren wurden zahlreiche spartenspezifische, meist technisch spezielle Lösungen für die Internet-Präsentation von Digitalisaten aus Archiven, Bibliotheken und Museen entwickelt. Die meisten Viewer zur Internet-Präsentation sind auf die Anforderungen einer einzigen Einrichtung beschränkt und bieten meist nur Zugang (Access) auf eine begrenzte Anzahl von lokalen, meist untereinander inkompatiblen Applikationen. Der 2011 entwickelte IIIF-Standard ist dabei, die Situation grundlegend zu ändern. IIIF definiert eine Reihe von öffentlich zugänglichen Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), um die Strukturierung, den Austausch und die Visualisierung digitaler Objekte für alle Kulturinstitutionen zu erleichtern. Zusammen mit einem IIIF-kompatiblen Betrachter wie Mirador bietet IIIF einen bisher unerreichten Grad an Interoperabilität, der es Institutionen erlaubt, ihre digitalen Inhalte in einer noch nie da gewesenen Art und Weise für Forschung und Wissenschaft zugänglich zu machen (Data Sharing). Dieser Artikel beschreibt die Möglichkeiten und Chancen des IIIF-Standards und von Mirador, einem IIIF-Viewer und Forschungstool am Beispiel der Bayerischen Staatsbibliothek. Die Bayerische Staatsbibliothek wird sukzessive die Präsentation von 1,2 Millionen digitalisierten Werken auf den IIIF-Standard umstellen.
A fully-mixed finite element method for the Navier–Stokes/Darcy coupled problem with nonlinear viscosity
Authors: Caucao Sergio , Gatica Gabriel N. , Oyarzúa Ricardo , Šebestová Ivana
Published: July 2016

We propose and analyze an augmented mixed finite element method for the coupling of fluid flow with porous media flow. The flows are governed by a class of nonlinear Navier–Stokes and linear Darcy equations, respectively, and the transmission conditions are given by mass conservation, balance of normal forces, and the Beavers–Joseph–Saffman law. We apply dual-mixed formulations in both domains, and the nonlinearity involved in the Navier–Stokes region is handled by setting the strain and vorticity tensors as auxiliary unknowns. In turn, since the transmission conditions become essential, they are imposed weakly, which yields the introduction of the traces of the porous media pressure and the fluid velocity as the associated Lagrange multipliers. Furthermore, since the convective term in the fluid forces the velocity to live in a smaller space than usual, we augment the variational formulation with suitable Galerkin type terms arising from the constitutive and equilibrium equations of the Navier–Stokes equations, and the relation defining the strain and vorticity tensors. The resulting augmented scheme is then written equivalently as a fixed point equation, so that the well-known Schauder and Banach theorems, combined with classical results on bijective monotone operators, are applied to prove the unique solvability of the continuous and discrete systems. In particular, given an integer
Combining boolean algebras and ℓ-groups in the variety generated by chang’s mv-algebra
Authors: Di Nola A. , Ferraioli A. R. , Gerla B.
Published: July 2016

In this paper we investigate a class of MV-algebras built up by fixing a Boolean algebra, one of its maximal ideals and an ℓ-group. We use such class to characterize, in the variety generated by all perfect MV-algebras, those MV-algebras which have their perfect skeleton as a quotient, giving an axiomatization of such a class and a representation theorem.
Conformal algebras, vertex algebras, and the logic of locality
Authors: Smith Jonathan D. H.
Published: July 2016

In a new algebraic approach, conformal algebras and vertex algebras are extended to two-sorted structures, with an additional component encoding the logical properties of locality. Within these algebras, locality is expressed as an identity, without the need for existential quantifiers. Two-sorted conformal algebras form a variety of two-sorted algebras, an equationally-defined class, and free conformal algebras are given by standard universal algebraic constructions. The variety of two-sorted conformal algebras is equivalent to a Mal’tsev variety of single-sorted algebras. Motivated by a question of Griess, subalgebras of reducts of conformal algebras are shown to satisfy a set of quasi-identities. The class of two-sorted vertex algebras does not form a variety, so open problems concerning the nature of that class are posed.
A Systematic Approach for Solving the Great Circle Track Problems based on Vector Algebra
Authors: Chen Chih-Li
Published: July 2016

A systematic approach, based on multiple products of the vector algebra (S-VA), is proposed to derive the spherical triangle formulae for solving the great circle track (GCT) problems. Because the mathematical properties of the geometry and algebra are both embedded in the S-VA approach, derivations of the spherical triangle formulae become more understandable and more straightforward as compared with those approaches which use the complex linear combination of a vector basis. In addition, the S-VA approach can handle all given initial conditions for solving the GCT problems simpler, clearer and avoid redundant formulae existing in the conventional approaches. With the technique of transforming the Earth coordinates system of latitudes and longitudes into the Cartesian one and adopting the relative longitude concept, the concise governing equations of the S-VA approach can be easily and directly derived. Owing to the advantage of the S-VA approach, it makes the practical navigator quickly adjust to solve the GCT problems. Based on the S-VA approach, a program namely GCTPro_VA is developed for friendly use of the navigator. Several validation examples are provided to show the S-VA approach is simple and versatile to solve the GCT problems.
Parametrical Method for Determining Optimal Ship Carrying Capacity and Performance of Handling Equipment
Authors: Michalski Jan P.
Published: July 2016

The paper presents a method of evaluating the optimal value of the cargo ships deadweight and the coupled optimal value of cargo handling capacity. The method may be useful at the stage of establishing the main owners requirements concerning the ship design parameters as well as for choosing a proper second hand ship for a given transportation task. The deadweight and the capacity are determined on the basis of a selected economic measure of the transport effectiveness of ship – the Required Freight Rate. The mathematical model of the problem is of a deterministic character and the simplifying assumptions are justified for ships operating in the liner trade. The assumptions are so selected that solution of the problem is obtained in analytical closed form. The presented method can be useful for application in the preliminary ship design or in the simulation of pre-investment transportation task studies.
Analysis of Possible Application of High-Temperature Nuclear Reactors to Contemporary Large-Output Steam Power Plants on Ships
Authors: Kowalczyk T. , Głuch J. , Ziółkowski P.
Published: July 2016

This paper is aimed at analysis of possible application of helium to cooling high-temperature nuclear reactor to be used for generating steam in contemporary ship steam-turbine power plants of a large output with taking into account in particular variable operational parameters. In the first part of the paper types of contemporary ship power plants are presented. Features of today applied PWR reactors and proposed HTR reactors are discussed. Next, issues of load variability of the ship nuclear power plants, features of the proposed thermal cycles and results of their thermodynamic calculations in variable operational conditions, are presented.
Numerical Model of SO2 Scrubbing with Seawater Applied to Marine Engines
Authors: Lamas M. I. , Rodríguez C. G. , Rodríguez J. D. , Telmo J.
Published: July 2016

The present paper proposes a CFD model to study sulphur dioxide (SO2) absorption in seawater. The focus is on the treatment of marine diesel engine exhaust gas. Both seawater and distilled water were compared to analyze the effect of seawater alkalinity. The results indicate that seawater is more appropriate than distilled water due to its alkalinity, obtaining almost 100% cleaning efficiency for the conditions analyzed. This SO2 reduction meets the limits of SOx emission control areas (SECA) when operating on heavy fuel oil. These numerical simulations were satisfactory validated with experimental tests. Such data are essential in designing seawater scrubbers and judging the operating cost of seawater scrubbing compared to alternative fuels.
The Application of Kalman Filtering to Predict Vertical Rail Axis Displacements of the Overhead Crane Being a Component of Seaport Transport Structure
Authors: Filipiak – Kowszyk Daria , Kamiński Waldemar
Published: July 2016

As the devices designed to transport materials, the overhead cranes should meet certain geometric requirements for their operation to be safe. The presently available geodetic equipment, in particular total stations, provides opportunities for precise 3D measurements of coordinates of the controlled points. These coordinates make a basis for correcting the height of crane runway axes. The paper presents a method to calculate position corrections for the crane rail axes in both vertical and horizontal direction, and indicates that these results can find much wider application. Among other goals, the observations of this type, along with the Kalman filtration method, can be used to predict vertical displacements of the crane rail axes. The object of practical considerations in the paper is a crane working in the area with unfavourable geotechnical conditions and the settling limits attributed to this crane and location area in the technical design. The sample practical application has confirmed the validity of the use of the proposed solution for evaluating the operational safety of the crane. Although the tests were performed for the gantry crane, the proposed solution is believed to be applicable for other types of overhead cranes.
Analysis of Fatigue Crack Growth in Ship Structural Details
Authors: Leheta Heba W. , Elhewy Ahmed M. H. , Younes Helmy A.
Published: July 2016

Fatigue failure avoidance is a goal that can be achieved only if the fatigue design is an integral part of the original design program. The purpose of fatigue design is to ensure that the structure has adequate fatigue life. Calculated fatigue life can form the basis for meaningful and efficient inspection programs during fabrication and throughout the life of the ship. The main objective of this paper is to develop an add-on program for the analysis of fatigue crack growth in ship structural details. The developed program will be an add-on script in a pre-existing package. A crack propagation in a tanker side connection is analyzed by using the developed program based on linear elastic fracture mechanics (LEFM) and finite element method (FEM). The basic idea of the developed application is that a finite element model of this side connection will be first analyzed by using ABAQUS and from the results of this analysis the location of the highest stresses will be revealed. At this location, an initial crack will be introduced to the finite element model and from the results of the new crack model the direction of the crack propagation and the values of the stress intensity factors, will be known. By using the calculated direction of propagation a new segment will be added to the crack and then the model is analyzed again. The last step will be repeated until the calculated stress intensity factors reach the critical value.
Depth Images Filtering In Distributed Streaming
Authors: Dziubich Tomasz , Szymański Julian , Brzeski Adam , Cychnerski Jan , Korłub Waldemar
Published: July 2016

In this paper, we propose a distributed system for point cloud processing and transferring them via computer network regarding to effectiveness-related requirements. We discuss the comparison of point cloud filters focusing on their usage for streaming optimization. For the filtering step of the stream pipeline processing we evaluate four filters: Voxel Grid, Radial Outliner Remover, Statistical Outlier Removal and Pass Through. For each of the filters we perform a series of tests for evaluating the impact on the point cloud size and transmitting frequency (analysed for various fps ratio). We present results of the optimization process used for point cloud consolidation in a distributed environment. We describe the processing of the point clouds before and after the transmission. Pre- and post-processing allow the user to send the cloud via network without any delays. The proposed pre-processing compression of the cloud and the post-processing reconstruction of it are focused on assuring that the end-user application obtains the cloud with a given precision.
Impact of the Transition to IFRS for the Romanian Listed Companies in Financial Distress
Authors: Istrate Costel , Robu Ioan Bogdan , Carp Mihai
Published: July 2016

The transition to IFRS of the Romanian listed companies enables us to provide a comparison of some accounting data reported in the same period and that have been obtained according to different accounting regulations: RAS vs. IFRS. The aim of our paper is to establish if the listed companies in financial distress report a trend of changes due to the transition to IFRS that is different to the one established for the performant companies. Based on the data corresponding to the 2011 financial year (with available RAS and IFRS information), we have calculated Gray’s comparability index (for a series of financial indicators) in the case of the two groups of companies (one in financial distress and a performant one) and we have statistically tested the existence of significant differences between the values of the index for the two company categories. We have found out that some indicators evolve in the same manner (especially the balance sheet structure indexes), others maintain the same trend, but the significance of the variances are different (ROS, ROA, ROE and OI), and, finally, for another series of indicators, the trend of the change caused by the IFRS transition is different for the two groups of companies (leverage and equity).
Low Interest Rates and Bank Risk-Taking: Has the Crisis Changed Anything? Evidence from the Eurozone
Authors: Andries Alin Marius , Cocriş Vasile , Pleşcău Ioana
Published: July 2016

This paper examines the impact of monetary policy on bank risk-taking and the influence of the recent financial crisis on this relation. We use a dataset of 571 commercial banks from Eurozone and analyze the relation on the period from 1999 to 2011, with emphasize on the period 2008 to 2011. We use non-performing loans, loan loss provisions and Z-score as measures for bank risk-taking, while for monetary policy the proxies are short-term interest rates (computed using a Taylor rule) and long-term interest rates. We determine the relation between the two by taking into account some specific control variables and analyze it using an entity fixed-effects model and Generalized Method of Moments, alternatively. Empirical results point to a negative relation between interest rates and bank risk-taking. In addition to this, results show that the crisis has led to an additional negative impact on the relation between interest rates and bank risk-taking for the turmoil period 2008-2011.
Government Policies and Micro Lending in Emerging Markets
Authors: Lash Nicolas A. , Batavia Bala
Published: July 2016

Although microfinance institutions have expanded rapidly since their inception in 1983, their growth has varied substantially among countries. This study examines the impact of government expenditures, taxes and regulations on the volume of microcredit for 92 emerging market countries for the period 2000-2011. The Index of Economic Freedom data is used as a proxy for government intervention while microcredit is represented alternatively by either the Gross Loan Portfolio Per-Capita or Penetration Index variables. While excessive government intervention could potentially encourage more lending in the informal microfinance markets, our findings suggest that, for both credit variables, the net impact is to reduce microcredit. The variables appearing to be most responsible are business regulations, taxes, and corruption. Tests using subperiods and also with a dynamic version suggest that our model is quite robust.
A Designed Model of Sustainable Competitiveness for Slovak Industrial Companies in the Global Context of Sustainable Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Božiková Lucia , Šnircová Jana
Published: July 2016

In this article we introduce a model of sustainable competitiveness, which we created on the basis of a long term study of literature and analysis. This article is divided into several parts. In the first part, we will introduce the problem of competitiveness and sustainable competitiveness. The second part is focused on the basic aspects for the creation of the model. In the third part the model itself is introduced and also an explanation and description of the mode is given.
Utilisation and Improvement of the Initialisation of Project Communication Processes During the Management of Projects in Industrial Enterprises in Slovakia
Authors: Samáková Jana , Šujanová Jana , Špirková Marta
Published: July 2016

Nowadays, project communication is slowed due to the need for compliance with strict rules. Therefore the aim of this paper is to analyse the use of the communication environment as a basic part of the initialisation of project communication in industrial enterprises in Slovakia, and to propose measures to improve the process of initialisation of project communication in these enterprises. In this paper, theoretical and empirical research (quantitative and qualitative) approaches were chosen. On the basis of the research we can conclude, that communication as a basic part of the “Initialisation of project communication” is not adequately elaborated in international methodologies and standards of project management and in industrial enterprises. Industrial enterprises do not deal with processes of the communication environment and this results in negative consequences.
Cerebral damage caused by nail gun injury
Authors: Andersen Chris Hedeman , Larsen Maiken Kudahl
Published: July 2016

Background Accidents with nail guns are rather common, especially in the construction industry. Most injuries involve the extremities and several present with intracerebral injuries. When the patient is unconscious, it can be a big challenge to determine whether the injury is an accident, self-inflicted or a criminal act.

Case presentation A 43-year-old male worker was brought to the emergency department after his coworkers had found him on the floor in the cafeteria at work. He was admitted to the hospital due to a possible apoplexy. The CT scan revealed a nail in his skull and acute surgery was performed. The forensic examination showed lesions of intracranial surgery and minor bruises on the arms. No sign of defense injuries was found. There were no signs of malfunction of the nail gun-wielding robot. On the side of the machine, there were a handheld nail gun and the police investigated the case as a possible criminal act. They found bloodstains on the back of the machine. When awake, the man explained, that by accident, he had hit his head against a nail gun and as a result of this, the nail gun delivered a nail into his skull.

Conclusion Sometimes, the circumstances of a case are not clear and the investigators need to work with more than one theory. In criminal cases, it is important to carry out the forensic examination as soon as possible to preserve the trace evidence. In this case, the investigation of the scene of the accident disproved that a crime was committed.
Synthesis and crystal structure of anhydrous Na[MnO4]
Authors: Bauchert Jörg M. , Henning Harald , Schleid Thomas
Published: July 2016

There are numerous reports in the literature about the amount of hydrate water in sodium permanganate, which is said to be between one half and three water molecules per Na[MnO4]. Because no structural descriptions of the hydrate and the anhydrous compound can be found yet, this work reports the synthesis of anhydrous Na[MnO4] via the Muthmann method and its crystal structure. Na[MnO4] crystallizes as dark purple needles in the monoclinic space group P21/n with a = 572.98(5), b = 842.59(7), c = 715.47(6) pm, β = 92.374(3)° and Z = 4. As such and with its isotype to Ag[MnO4], Na[MnO4] completes the series of anhydrous alkali-metal permanganates, comprising Li[MnO4] (orthorhombic, Cmcm, Cr[VO4] type) and the isostructural heavier congeners A[MnO4] (A = K, Rb, Cs; orthorhombic, Pnma, Ba[SO4] type).
RE
4B4O11F2 (RE = Sm, Tb, Ho, Er): four new rare earth fluoride borates isotypic to Gd4B4O11F2
Authors: Glätzle Matthias , Huppertz Hubert
Published: July 2016

The rare earth fluoride borates RE
4B4O11F2 (RE = Sm, Tb, Ho, Er) were synthesized in a Walker-type multianvil apparatus from the corresponding rare earth oxides and fluorides with boron oxide. Sm4B4O11F2 was obtained under high-pressure/high-temperature conditions of 6 GPa/1100°C, Tb4B4O11F2 at 7.5 GPa/1200°C, and Ho4B4O11F2 and Er4B4O11F2 at 9.5 GPa/1300°C. The single-crystal structure determinations showed that all compounds are isotypic to the known rare earth fluoride borates RE
4B4O11F2 (RE = Pr, Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy). They crystallize in the monoclinic space group C2/c (Z = 4). The structure is built up from BO4 tetrahedra as well as BO3 groups connected via common corners. Here, we report about the crystallographic characterization of these new compounds in comparison to the isotypic phases RE
4B4O11F2 (RE = Pr, Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy).
Use of Embedded Sensors to Evaluate Performance of Traffic Speed Deflection Devices
Authors: Velarde J. A. , Rocha S. , Nazarian S. , Rada G. , Thyagarajan S. , Siddharthan R. V.
Published: July 2016

Structural adequacy, which is an important aspect of pavement management activities, is typically evaluated using surface pavement deflections measured by the falling weight deflectometer (FWD). Technology that can collect continuous deflection data at traffic speeds can potentially supplant single-point location deflection measurements provided by the FWD for network-level pavement management system (PMS) applications. Previous studies have evaluated the traffic speed deflection devices (TSDD) performance by comparing their results with the FWD measurements. Although appropriate correlations and indices to compensate for the differences in load have been made, a direct comparison under the same loading conditions has not been reported in the literature. The purpose of this paper was to present the results of a field study to evaluate TSDDs by comparing their pavement deflection parameters with those from embedded sensors under actual loads. Two TSDDs were used in this study: the Greenwood traffic speed deflectometer (TSD), and the Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) rolling wheel deflectometer (RWD). The lessons learned from the study are emphasized for further consideration toward developing a calibration methodology for value-added future analyses.
Ki-67 index and response to chemotherapy in patients with neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Childs Alexa , Kirkwood Amy , Edeline Julien , Luong Tu Vinh , Watkins Jennifer , Lamarca Angela , Alrifai Doraid , Nsiah-Sarbeng Phyllis , Gillmore Roopinder , Mayer Astrid , Thirlwell Christina , Sarker Debashis , Valle Juan W , Meyer Tim
Published: July 2016

Chemotherapy (CT) is widely used for neuroendocrine tumours (NETs), but there are no validated biomarkers to predict response. The Ki-67 proliferation index has been proposed as a means of selecting patients for CT, but robust data are lacking. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between response to chemotherapy and Ki-67 in NET. We reviewed data from 222 NET patients treated with CT. Tumours were graded according to Ki-67 index: G1 ≤2%, G2 3–20% and G3 >20%. Response was assessed according to RECIST and survival calculated from start of chemotherapy to death. To explore Ki-67 as a marker of response, we calculated the likelihood ratio and performed receiver operating characteristic analysis. Overall, 193 patients had a documented Ki-67 index, of which 173 were also evaluable for radiological response: 10% were G1, 46% G2 and 43% G3; 46% were pancreatic NET (PNET). Median overall survival was 22.1 months. Overall response rate was 30% (39% in PNET vs 22% in non-PNET) and 43% of patients had stable disease. Response rate increased with grade: 6% in G1 tumours, 24% in G2 and 43% in G3. However, maximum likelihood ratio was 2.3 at Ki-67=35%, and the area under the ROC curve was 0.60. As reported previously, a high Ki-67 was an adverse prognostic factor for overall survival. In conclusion, response to CT increases with Ki-67 index, but Ki-67 alone is an unreliable means to select patients for CT. Improved methods to stratify patients for systemic therapy are required.
Elevation of circulating serotonin improves calcium dynamics in the peripartum dairy cow
Authors: Weaver Samantha R , Prichard Austin P , Endres Elizabeth L , Newhouse Stefanie A , Peters Tonia L , Crump Peter M , Akins Matthew S , Crenshaw Thomas D , Bruckmaier Rupert M , Hernandez Laura L
Published: July 2016

Hypocalcemia is a metabolic disorder that affects dairy cows during the transition from pregnancy to lactation. Twelve multiparous Holstein cows and twelve multiparous Jersey cows were intravenously infused daily for approximately 7 days prepartum with either saline or 1.0mg/kg bodyweight of the immediate precursor to serotonin synthesis, 5hydroxy-l-tryptophan (5-HTP). On infusion days, blood was collected before, after, and at 2, 4, and 8h postinfusion. Blood and urine were collected daily before the infusion period, for 14 days postpartum and on day 30 postpartum. Milk was collected daily during the postpartum period. Feed intake and milk yield were unaffected by 5-HTP infusion postpartum. Cows infused with 5-HTP had elevated circulating serotonin concentrations prepartum. Infusion with 5-HTP induced a transient hypocalcemia in Jersey cows prepartum, but not in any other treatment. Holstein cows infused with saline had the highest milk calcium on the day of and day after parturition. Postpartum, circulating total calcium tended to be elevated, and urine deoxypyridinoline (DPD) concentrations were elevated in Holstein cows infused with 5-HTP. Overall, Jerseys had higher urine DPD concentrations postpartum when compared with Holsteins. Taken together, these data warrant further investigation of the potential therapeutic benefit of 5-HTP administration prepartum for prevention of hypocalcemia. Further research should focus on delineation of mechanisms associated with 5-HTP infusion that control calcium homeostasis during the peripartum period in Holstein and Jersey cows.
Individualising Anticoagulant Therapy in Atrial Fibrillation Patients
Authors: Ailings Marco ,   Amphia Ziekenhuis, Breda, The Netherlands; Julius Clinical Research; University Medical Centre (UMC) Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
Published: July 2016

Non-vitamin K antagonist (VKA) oral anticoagulants (NOACs) have emerged as alternatives to VKAs for the prevention of stroke in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Four NOACs: dabigatran, apixaban, rivaroxaban and edoxaban, have received regulatory approval in Europe from the European Medicines Agency. Numerous factors can influence the decision to prescribe a NOAC, the most important of which are assessment of stroke and bleeding risks. Given the variation in design of the pivotal phase III clinical trials investigating the efficacy and safety of NOACs, and in the absence of head-to-head comparative data, it is impossible to recommend one NOAC over the other. However, NOACs offer the opportunity for individualised therapy based on factors such as renal function, age or patient/doctor preference for once- or twice-daily dosing regimens. Dose reduction of some NOACs should be considered in at-risk patient populations.
The Changing Paradigm in the Treatment of Structural Heart Disease and the Need for the Interventional Imaging Specialist
Authors: Wunderlich Nina C ,   Cardiovascular Center Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany, Küx Harald ,   Cardiovascular Center Darmstadt, Darmstadt, Germany, Kreidel Felix ,   Department of Cardiology, Asklepios Klinik, St Georg Hospital, Hamburg, Germany, Birkemeyer Ralf ,   Herzklinik Ulm, Ulm, Germany, Siegel Robert J ,   The Heart Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
Published: July 2016

Percutaneous interventions in structural heart diseases are emerging rapidly. The variety of novel percutaneous treatment approaches and the increasing complexity of interventional procedures are associated with new challenges and demands on the imaging specialist. Standard catheterisation laboratory imaging modalities such as fluoroscopy and contrast ventriculography provide inadequate visualisation of the soft tissue or three-dimensional delineation of the heart. Consequently, additional advanced imaging technology is needed to diagnose and precisely identify structural heart diseases, to properly select patients for specific interventions and to support fluoroscopy in guiding procedures. As imaging expertise constitutes a key factor in the decision-making process and in the management of patients with structural heart disease, the sub-speciality of interventional imaging will likely develop out of an increased need for high-quality imaging.
María del Carmen Castrillón y José Fernando Sánchez, Escenarios de la minoridad en Colombia. Los juzgados de menores y la beneficencia de Cundinamarca 1900-1930 (Cali: Universidad del Valle, 2014), 140 pp.
Authors: Garcés Hurtado Juan David , Márquez Valderrama Jorge Humbeto
Published: July 2016

Reseña del libroCastrillón Valderruten María del Carmen y Sánchez Salcedo José Fernando, Escenarios de la minoridad en Colombia. Los juzgados de menores y la beneficencia de Cundinamarca 1900-1930, (Cali: Programa editorial Universidad del Valle, 2014), (ISBN 978-958-765-123-4).
Las promesas de matrimonio como estrategias de movilidad social de la población de castas. Medellín, 1776 – 1830.
Authors: Jaramillo Velásquez Carolina
Published: July 2016

La construcción y negociación de las identidades de los sujetos coloniales, particularmente de la población de castas, se llevó a cabo en un entramado de relaciones de poder donde atributos como el honor, la “calidad”, el origen, la “limpieza de sangre” y el color fueron determinantes para establecer una estructura social basada en la desigualdad. Es por esto que la población de castas, como una manera de resistencia, se apropió de este discurso de la desigualdad buscando impulsar estrategias que les permitieran transformar tanto su identidad como sus posibilidades vitales a través de la movilidad social. Este artículo pretende explicar cómo las promesas de matrimonio y los conflictos relacionados con estas fueron una de esas tantas estrategias que la población de castas usó para lograr un ascenso social efectivo.