bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic Knowledge Management, Innovation and Firm Performance: An Empirical Study in Vietnamese Firms
Authors: Nguyen Quoc Duy , Vu Hong Tuan
Published: September 2019

The main purpose of this paper is to test the relationship between strategic knowledge management, innovation and firm performance in the Vietnamese context. Our results show that strategic knowledge management significantly enhances innovation and organizational performance. It is also seen as playing an important mediating role in innovation between strategic knowledge management and firm performance. Although codification and personalization knowledge management strategies both have impact on innovation and performance, personalization knowledge management strategy has the dominant impact.
The Profitability of the Moving Average Strategy in the French Stock Market
Authors: T. Nguyen Hung , V. D. Pham Hang , Hung Nguyen
Published: September 2019

This paper studies the cross-sectional profitability of moving average timing portfolios in the French stock market over the period from January 1, 1995 to December 31, 2012. The results provide strong evidence that the moving average timing outperforms the buy-and-hold strategy with higher returns and less risk exposure. On average, moving average portfolios generate an abnormal return of 3.72% per annum and always perform better than buy-and-hold benchmark portfolios across different lag length and volatility portfolios. Moreover, our results prevail after we control for transaction costs.
Keywords:Technical analysis, moving average, cross-sectional profit
Investigation on the Impact of US Anti-dumping Measures during the “Catfish War” on Vietnamese Pangasius Exports
Authors: Tu Van Binh , Nguyen Huu Huy Nhut
Published: September 2019

The Vietnamese pangasius industry has faced anti-dumping (AD) measures imposed by the United States of America (USA). This dispute between the USA and Vietnam is known as the “Catfish War”. Based on monthly time series data from January 1999 to December 2011, an econometric approach is considered, in which regression models are taken into account for investigating how the USA AD measures impact on the volume and the value of Vietnam’s pangasius exports. As resulted in the estimation, the paper found that although the anti-dumping taxes imposed on Vietnam pangasius, it is not so seriously problematic for exporters in the long-term. One of the reasons is that Vietnam pangasius exporters are dynamic in developing market diversification by shifting from the USA to the European market.. However, in the short term, the trade dispute between the USA and Vietnam is a warning alarm for Vietnam pangasius exporters. In addition, the paper does not have any evidence to confirm that the upward trend of the real exchange rate between the VND and the USD is causing changes in either the pangasius export volume or the pangasius export value. Also there is no confirmation of a significant relationship between the inflation rate in Vietnam and the export value.
On Extensions of Extended Gauss Hypergeometric Function
Authors: ATASH Ahmed Ali , BARAHMAH Salem Saleh , KULİB Maisoon Ahmed
Published: September 2019

The aim of this paper is to introduce a new extensions of extended Gauss hypergeometric function. Certain integral representations, transformation and summation formulas for extended Gauss hypergeometric function are presented and some special cases are also discussed.
Regularity of Linear Systems of Differential Equations on the Axes and Pencils of Quadratic Forms
Authors: KULYK Viktor , KULYK Ganna , STEPANENKO Nataliya
Published: September 2019

It is considered linear systems of differential equations and investigated questions of regularity of these systems. To explore the regularity it is comfortable to use quadratic form whose derivative with respect to the adjoint system is positive definite. Sometimes it is possible to find such a quadratic form, the derivative of which with respect to the system is non-negative. There are examples showing that in this case we can't say anything about the exponential dichotomy of this system (that is, its regularity). The question arises whether it is possible to combine a certain set of quadratic forms to get such a form, the derivative of which with respect to the system is positive definite. This question is similar to the question that arises in the theory of control: having a set of certain data about an object, can one say something about this object as a whole. It turns out that this is possible, only a set of these quadratic forms should be special, in some sense complete. In the presented article the authors propose to write it with the help of some combination of specific symmetric matrices $S_1, S_2, \dots$ . So we have a quadratic form \[V_{p} =p_{1} \left\langle S_{1} \left(t\right)x,x\right\rangle +p_{2} \left\langle S_{2} \left(t\right)x,x\right\rangle + \dots +p_{k-1} \left\langle S_{k-1} \left(t\right)x,x\right\rangle +\left\langle S_{k} \left(t\right)x,x\right\rangle\]  It is proved that the derivative of this quadratic form is positive definite for sufficiently large parameters $p_1, \dots, p_{k-1}$. The results are illustrated by examples.
Solving FIDEs by Using Semi-Analytical Techniques
Authors: HAMOUD Ahmed A. , GHADLE Kirtiwant P. , MOHAMMED Nedal M.
Published: September 2019

This paper mainly focuses on the recent advances in the semi-analytical approximated methods for solving Fredholm Integro-Differential Equations  (FIDEs) of the second kind by using  Variational Iteration Method (VIM), Homotopy Perturbation Method (HPM) and Direct Homotopy Analysis Method (DHAM). Convergence analysis of the exact solution of the proposed methods is established. Moreover, we proved the uniqueness of the solution.   To illustrate the methods, an example is presented.
PKM Validator Desain Rumah Terapung Suku Anak dalam Karya Siswa MAN Insan Cendekia Jambi
Authors: Khamdevi Muhammar
Published: September 2019

The settlement of the Anak Dalam tribe in Muara Medak - Jambi often experiences flood disasters later in each rainy season. This is the number of hills that have changed from forests to become oil palm plantations which are unable to absorb water. So that in the rainy season, this area which is a shallow swamp often gets runoff from the hills which causes flooding. MAN Insan Cendikia students try to find a home design solution for residents of the Anak Dalam Tribe at Muara Medak through R & D research with the topic: "Mahaban" Alternative Floating Houses in Handling Floods and Building for Tribal Children in the Village of Muaro Medak Jambi. The results of this study were then included in the Youth Scientific Writing competition (LKIR) organized by the Regional Research and Development Agency (Balitbangda) Jambi. To validate the design, the authors help provide assistance and consultation regarding their designs. This research uses a mix-method. After validation, the design needs to be revised. Then the results were made into a prototype and tested. As a result, this design won the Best Journal Award II and the Second Champion Award at the presentation of the work.
OXIDATION OF ALCOHOLS OVER CERIUM-OXIDE CATALYST: CORRELATION BETWEEN THE ACTIVATION ENERGY OF THE REACTION AND THE CHEMICAL SHIFT δ (R13 COH)
Authors: Brei Volodymyr
Published: September 2019

The oxidation of thirteen alcohols over sup-ported CeO2/Al2O3 catalyst with 10 wt.% of CeO2 have been studied using a desorption mass-spec-trometry technique. A catalyst sample 4–6 mg in quartz cuvette was evacuated at 100 0C, cooled to room temperature, and then adsorption of a alco-hol was provided. After vacuumation of alcohol excess, the TPR profiles of products of alcohol oxidation were recorded at sweep rate 2 a.u.m./sec and heating rate of 15 0C/min using MX-7304A monopole mass- spectrometer. Identification of formed aldehydes and ketones was provided on the bases of their characteristic ions in obtained mass-spectra, namely, acetaldehyde (m/e = 29, 44); pro-panal (29, 58); acetone (43, 58); butanal (44, 43); methyl propanal (43, 41, 72), 2-butanon (43, 72); methoxyacetone (45, 43); cyclohexanone (55); ace-tophenone (105, 77); benzaldehyde (77, 106). It was shown that the oxidation of several alcohols pro-ceeds in a wide temperature interval from 130 to 280 0C. So, peak of formaldehyde formation from me-thanol adsorbed on CeO2/Al2O3 is observed at 280 0C whereas peaks of methyl glyoxal and water formation from adsorbed hydroxyacetone are re-corded at 135 0 C. The linear correlation between activation energy of reaction and chemical shift δ (R13COH) of studied alcohols was found as Ea= 183 –1.4δ (kJ/mol). Respectively, the maximum oxi-dation rate, for instance, for methanol (50 ppm) is observed at 280 0C, for ethanol (58 ppm) at 215 0C, for n-butanol (62 ppm) at 200 0C, for n-propanol (64 ppm) at 190 0C, for 2-butanol (69 ppm) at 160 0C, for hydroxyacetone (69 ppm) at 135 0C, and for 1-phenylethanol (70 ppm) at 130 0C. Thus, ability of alcohols to oxidation decreases with increase of their electronic density on carbon atom of alcohol group in following order: 1-phenyl ethanol ≈ hyd-roxyacetone ≈ cyclohexanol > allyl alcohol ≈ 2-bu-anol ≈ i-butanol ≈ i-propanol > methoxypropanol-2 ≈ n-propanol ≈ n-butanol ≈ benzyl alcohol ≈ ethanol >> methanol. On an example of ethanol, the scheme of alcohol oxidation on ceria that assumes the addition of atomic oxygen to C–H bond of alcoho-lic group with intermediate acetaldehyde hydrate formation is discussed.
New information on the first vertebrate fossil discoveries from Lesotho in 1867
Authors: Master Sharad
Published: September 2019

In the 1870s, Richard Owen of the British Museum received a consignment of vertebrate fossils from Basutoland (Lesotho), which were sent to him by Dr Hugh Exton from Bloemfontein, and he published an illustrated catalogue of these in 1876. In 1884, he described from this collection a “Triassic mammal”– Tritylodon longaevus (an important cynodont therapsid or mammal-like reptile). New information has been found concerning the discovery, locality, stratigraphic position and discoverers of the Basutoland vertebrate fossils. The information is contained in two letters sent to Dr Alexander Logie du Toit by David Draper, in 1929. Draper revealed in these letters that the fossils were found during a raiding party by horse commandos from the Orange Free State during the Basuto War of 1867. Draper then was an 18-year-old, and he had assisted Exton with collecting vertebrate fossils from the “Upper Red Beds” (of the Karoo Supergroup) at a site whose location he pointed out on a map (the present day Thaba Tso'eu). The discovery of fossils by Exton and Draper in 1867 was the first find of any fossils in Basutoland.
Alfred Russel Wallace's “Die Permanenz der Continente und Oceane”
Authors: Smith Charles H. , Costa James T. , Glaubrecht Matthias
Published: September 2019

A previously unnoticed publication by Alfred Russel Wallace has come to light concerning an important nineteenth-century natural science discussion: whether the continental and oceanic portions of the globe are permanent fixtures. Originally (and only) printed in an obscure German review magazine, it represents the only known substantial work by Wallace that never appeared in English. A translation back into English is provided in the Appendix, preceded by an analysis and discussion of some of its subject matter, especially that pertaining to nineteenth-century theories of changing ocean levels and the changing perception of the importance of land bridges versus dispersal for zoogeography.
Absence and Presence:Top of the Popsand the Demand for Music Videos in the 1960s
Authors: Smith Justin
Published: September 2019

While there is a surprising critical consensus underpinning the myth that British music video began in the mid-1970s with Queen's video for ‘Bohemian Rhapsody’, few scholars have pursued John Mundy's (1999) lead in locating its origins a decade earlier. Although the relationship between film and the popular song has a much longer history, this article seeks to establish that the international success of British beat groups in the first half of the 1960s encouraged television broadcasters to target the youth audience with new shows that presented their idols performing their latest hits (which normally meant miming to recorded playback). In the UK, from 1964, the BBC's Top of the Pops created an enduring format specifically harnessed to popular music chart rankings. This format created a demand for the top British artists' regular studio presence which their busy touring schedules could seldom accommodate; American artists achieving British pop chart success rarely appeared on the show in person. These frequent absences, then, coupled with the desire by broadcasters elsewhere in Europe and America to present popular British acts, created a demand for pre-recorded or filmed inserts to be produced and shown in lieu of the artists themselves appearing. Drawing on records held at the BBC's Written Archives and elsewhere, and interviews with a number of 1960s music video directors, this article evidences TV's demand-driver and illustrates how the ‘pop promo’, in the hands of some, became a creative enterprise which exceeded television's requirement to cover for an artist's studio absence.
Warp's Music Videos: Affective Communities, Genre and Gender in Electronic/Dance Music's Visual Aesthetic
Authors: Haddon Mimi
Published: September 2019

This article examines Warp's music videos primarily from the ‘Warp Vision’ era of 1989–2004. I adopt a multidisciplinary approach and map three analytical perspectives. Firstly, I look at the videos' origins in Sheffield's electronic/dance music scene of the early 1990s. I then consider the way in which Warp's visual aesthetic refracts a gendered and raced identity through the lens of cult fandom and the ‘techno-geek’. Finally, I scrutinise the gendered division of labour involved in the making of Warp's music videos and consider how production studies might enhance current approaches to the study of music video.
Invasive vulvar squamous cell carcinoma and chronic psoriasis
Authors: Șandru Florica , Păunescu Ana-Maria , Dumitrașcu Mihai Cristian
Published: September 2019

Vulvar carcinoma is the fourth most common gynecologic malignancy[1]. A 50 year old patient presented to us for evaluation of an infiltrated, ulcerated vulvar tumour mass, with irregular borders, localized on the left labia majora. Also, palms, soles and elbows presented typical psoriasis plaques .

 The biopsy of the palmar tegument was concludent for vulgar psoriasis. The incisional vulvar biopsy revealed a squamous cell carcinoma. HPV testing was positive for HPV 16 infection with high-oncogenic risk. The CT scan showed the tumour located on the left labia majora, measuring 3 cm, with irregular borders and inguinal left node metastasis.

The surgical treatment was partial vulvectomy with bilateral inguinal lymphadenectomy. The postoperatory course was good, with no local complications. Postoperative histological examination result was invasive squamous cell carcinoma, poorly differentiated(G3), basaloid, infiltrative(>1 mm, pT1b), with lymph node, ganglionar metastasis and capsular invasion(N2a). The surgical treatment was recommended to be followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

Our case highlights the aggresive, rapidly evolution of a squamocelular vulvar carcinoma in a patient with concomitantly chronic psoriasis.  Psoriasis is a disease that alters the immune system and increases overall inflammation, which can expand the risk of developing cancers.. There is a high risk for malignancy in psoriatic patients [2]. A study found a higher frequency of all malignity among the patients with psoriasis; also, the risk of nonmelanoma skin cancer was higher [3].
Foreign body at the level of rectal tumor formation
Authors: Andronic Octavian , Dragomir Alin , Ion Daniel
Published: September 2019

We present the case of a 75-year-old patient presenting with nausea, faecal emesis and intense abdominal meteorism, symptoms that began three before presentatiton and accentuated within the last 12 hours. Clinical examination revealed an incresead volume of the abdomen, painfully diffused on palpation. Abdominal radiography highlights multiple hydroaeric levels. Computerized tomography: Parietal, circumferential thickening with spiked contours of the middle sigmoid, associating the important distension of the overlying sigmoid, and, at the level of the stenosis, endoluminal, a linear image of 3mm thick and 24mm in length, spontaneous hyperdensity (180UH), important densification of neighboring fat. A rectosigmoidectomy with left flank colostomy – Hartmann’s operation, is performed. The opening of the lumen of the resected colonic portion reveals a foreign body (wooden fragment) impacted at this level. Histopathological diagnosis is colonic adenocarcinoma with a high degree of cellular differentiation (G1) invasively up to serum pT3N0. The particularity of the case consists in the difficulty of the pre- and intraoperative differential diagnosis between a neoplasia requiring an oncological visa management and an inflammatory pseudotumoral formation with a more limited surgical management. In emergency, the intraoperative macroscopic examination of the resection piece is essential. Differentiation between tumor and inflammatory aspects is difficult, which is why the presumptive diagnosis  and the surgical decision must be inclined to the lesion with the most severe evolutionary potential.
IMPLEMENTASI STANDAR PEMERIKSAAN KEUANGAN NEGARA (SPKN) 2017 DALAM PELAKSANAAN PEMERIKSAAN KEUANGAN OLEH BADAN PEMERIKSA KEUANGAN REPUBLIK INDONESIA
Authors: Tumija Tumija , Febriansyah M. Ade
Published: September 2019

The aim of this research is to find the mechanism of financial audit conducted by the Supreme Audit Board of the Republic of Indonesia after the SPKN 2017 update, what improvements and new things contained in the SPKN 2017, as well as any obstacles that arise in the implementation of SPKN 2017.

This research uses descriptive method with an inductive approach that describes the field situation and analysis . Data collection techniques are interview, observation and documentation then analyzed by doing data reduction, data presentation and data verification.

 The result of the research shows that there is a change of audit mechanism conducted by the Indonesian Supreme Audit Institutioncaused by the change of the standard regulation system of audit from the previous based on the detail rules into the standard with the rule based principle.

Keywords: Indonesian Supreme Audit Institution, SPKN, Implementation
Türkiye’de Merkezi Yönetimin Sosyal Medya Kullanımı: Bakanlıkların Twitter Hesapları Üzerine Bir Analiz
Authors: GÖÇOĞLU Volkan
Published: September 2019

İnternet kullanımının
dünya genelinde yaygınlaşması ile birlikte internet tabanlı uygulama ve
yazılımları da gelişmiş ve çeşitlenmiştir. Bu gelişme neticesinde internet tek
taraflı bilgi paylaşım ağı olmaktan öteye giderek insanların ve kurumların
bilgiyi birbirleriyle etkileşimde bulunarak paylaştığı bir platform haline
gelmiştir. Sosyal medya bu durumun bir yansıması olarak ortaya çıkmıştır.
Sosyal medya kullanımı özellikle 2000’li yılların başından bu yana önemli
ölçüde yaygınlaşmıştır. Son yıllarda devlet kurumları da sosyal medyayı aktif
kullanır hale gelmiştir. Bu çalışma, Türkiye’deki bakanlıkların sosyal medya
kullanımlarını önde gelen bir sosyal medya platformu olan Twitter üzerinden
analiz etmektedir. Çalışmada, bakanlıkların 2019 yılında paylaştıkları toplam
8883 adet tweet incelenerek, kurumların bu tweetleri hangi amaçlarla paylaşıldığı
belirlenmeye çalışılmıştır.
Refah Çoğulculuğu ve Birleşik Krallık’ta Quangolar
Authors: SEÇKİNER BİNGÖL Ezgi
Published: September 2019

Birleşik Krallık’ta
Quangolar (quasi-autonomous non-governmental organisatisons) yarı
bağımsız-hükümet dışı sivil toplum kuruluşları olarak adlandırılmaktadır.
Quangolar diğer bir adı ile bakanlık dışı kamu örgütleri (NDPB)
(Non-Departmental Public Bodies), diğer kamu hizmetlerinin sunumunda olduğu
gibi refah hizmetlerinin sunumunda da önemli rollere sahiptirler. Quangoların
varlıkları, son dönemlerde politik tartışmaların önemli bir meselesi haline
gelmiş; tanımları, sayılarının çokluğu, denetlenebilirlikleri ve hesap
verebilirlikleri tartışma konusu olmuştur. Birleşik Krallık, Esping Andersen’in
refah rejimleri sınıflandırmasında liberal refah devleti olarak
nitelendirilmiştir. Quangoların varlıkları, bu tezi güçlendirse de Birleşik
Krallık’ta refah çoğulculuğunun benimsendiğini göstermektedir. Birleşik
Krallık, bu bakımdan kimi yazarlar tarafından “quango devleti” olarak
adlandırılmaktadır. Bu makalenin temel tezi, Birleşik Krallık’ta karma bir
refah rejimi sürdürüldüğü ve bunun önemli bir örneğini quangoların
oluşturduğudur. Çalışmada Türkçe literatürde az değinilen refah çoğulculuğu
kavramı irdelenmiş ve Birleşik Krallık’ta refah çoğulculuğunun önemli bir
örneğini oluşturan quangoların kamu yönetimi içerisindeki tartışılan rolleri
ele alınmıştır.
POTENTIAL USE OF CINDER GRAVEL AS AN ALTERNATIVE BASE COURSE MATERIAL THROUGH BLENDING WITH CRUSHED STONE AGGREGATE AND CEMENT TREATMENT
Authors: Seyfe M. , Geremew A.
Published: September 2019

Cinder gravels are pyroclastic materials associated with recent volcanic activity which occur in characteristically straight sided cone shaped hills. The aim of this study was to use this marginal material which is abundantly available in many parts of Ethiopia by modifying their properties through mechanical blending and chemical stabilization. Results of physical and mechanical test conducted on cinder gravel samples prove their marginality to be used as base course materials especially for highly trafficked roads. An experimental investigation were carried by blending cinder gravels with conventional crushed stone bases course material, Crushed Stone Aggregate (CSA), in proportions of cinder/ Crushed Stone Aggregate (CSA) (10/90, 20/80, 30/70, 40/60 and 50/50) and treating with 6. 8 and 10% of cement. According to results of sieve analysis, Aggregate crushing value (ACV), flakiness index and California Bearing Ratio (CBR), 30% of Crushed Stone Aggregate (CSA) can be replaced by cinder gravels for use as Fresh, crushed rock (GB1) material and for cement treated cinder gravels adding 6% and 8% cement make them suitable for use as Stabilized base course (CB2) and (CB1) base course materials respectively, referring to their 14 day compressive strength as determined by Unified compressive strength test(UCS) test.
Soil Biological Quality Assessment to Improve Decision Support in the Wine Sector
Authors: Ghiglieno Isabella , Simonetto Anna , Donna Pierluigi , Tonni Marco , Valenti Leonardo , Bedussi Floriana , Gilioli Gianni
Published: September 2019

Biodiversity is an increasingly important aspect of wine production. The assessment of agro-ecosystem biodiversity is highly complex due to the heterogeneity of the elements involved in the evaluation. For this reason, wine companies have expressed a need for a decision support system (DSS) capable of dealing with this complexity, integrating assessments referring to the whole production system within a single tool. In this study a DSS developed for wine sector biodiversity management assessment is introduced. The DSS, called BIOPASS®, is made up of different sections relating to three compartments in the winemaking process (the soil, the vine and wine). Assessment of the physical, chemical and biological components of soil is a key element of the DSS. We investigate the relationship between biological soil quality (represented by the QBS-ar index), environmental conditions and the type of farming (organic or conventional). 70 soil samples were analysed in different Italian viticultural contexts. The model highlighted the relationships between QBS-ar and meteorological variables (air temperature and precipitation) as well as a positive relationship with organic farming systems. These results provide useful information for understanding agroecosystem biodiversity and will be integrated within the DSS for assessment of soil quality.
Mulch-Based No-Tillage Effects on Weed Community and Management in an Organic Vegetable System
Authors: Testani Elena , Ciaccia Corrado , Campanelli Gabriele , Leteo Fabrizio , Salvati Luca , Canali Stefano
Published: September 2019

Weeds can cooperate with the agroecosystem’s functioning by providing ecosystem services. Effective weed management should mitigate negative weed–crop interference, while maintaining a functional and balanced weed community. In a two-year trial, the in-line/roller crimper (RC) was used to terminate an agroecological service crop (ASC; here barley, Hordeum vulgare L.) before organic zucchini (Cucurbita pepo, L.) and compared with green manure (GM) ASC and tilled no-ASC with Mater-Bi mulch on the rows (No_ASC). Zucchini yield, soil N availability, weed density/cover, biomass, and community composition were assessed. Analysis of variance, exploratory statistical analysis, and non-parametric inferential approaches were run, respectively, on agronomic data, species-specific weed frequencies, and Shannon diversity. Zucchini yield was the highest in No_ASC, due to soil N immobilization under high C:N barley residues in GM and RC. Multivariate analysis discriminated RC from tilled systems, outlining a specific ensemble of weed species correlated to Shannon diversity. From zucchini fruit set, RC selectively favored Polygonum aviculare L. and Helminthotheca echioides (L.), reasonably because of their oligotrophy and creeping habit. Their dominance finally caused low RC weed control. Results highlight strong weed selective pressure by the mulch-based no-tillage. Understanding the mechanisms underpinning the impact of soil management practices on weed community can drive towards a tailor-made and more effective weed management.
Effects of Maternal Supplementation with Rare Earth Elements during Late Gestation and Lactation on Performances, Health, and Fecal Microbiota of the Sows and Their Offspring
Authors: Xiong Yi , Pang Jiaman , Lv Liangkang , Wu Yujun , Li Na , Huang Shimeng , Feng Zhi , Ren Ying , Wang Junjun
Published: September 2019

The study was conducted to investigate the effects of maternal supplementation with rare earth elements (REEs) on sows and their offspring. During late gestation, 120 multiparous sows were divided randomly into the control group (Basal diet) and REE-G group (Basal diet supplemented with 200 mg REE/kg). After delivery, REE-G group was further divided into two groups: REE-L- (Change to basal diet during lactation) and REE-L+ group (REE diet all the time). Our results showed that maternal REE supplementation improved the antioxidant and immunity of sows and piglets. Additionally, REE supply during late gestation significantly decreased the coefficient of within-litter variation (CV) in birth weight and increased the weaning weights and the average daily gain (ADG) of piglets. During lactation, the insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels in piglets of REE-L+ group were higher, while no difference between REE-L- and the control group. More beneficial bacteria (Christensenellaceae and Ruminococcaceae) were found in the REE-L+ group while some opportunistic pathogens (Proteobacteria and Campylobacter) were relatively suppressed. Fecal microbiota showed correlation with antioxidase, inflammatory factors, and average daily gain (ADG). Collectively, our findings indicated that REEs added in both gestation and lactation was more conducive to establish a healthier status for sows and their offspring.
Effects of Dietary Threonine Levels on Intestinal Immunity and Antioxidant Capacity Based on Cecal Metabolites and Transcription Sequencing of Broiler
Authors: Ji Shuyun , Qi Xi , Ma Shuxue , Liu Xing , Min Yuna
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to determine the effects of different dietary threonine levels on the antioxidant and immune capacity and the immunity of broilers. A total of 432 one-day-old Arbor Acres (AA) broilers were randomly assigned to 4 groups, each with 6 replicates of 18 broilers. The amount of dietary threonine in the four treatments reached 85%, 100%, 125%, and 150% of the NRC (Nutrient Requirements of Poultry, 1994) recommendation for broilers (marked as THR85, THR100, THR125, and THR150). After 42 days of feeding, the cecum contents and jejunum mucosa were collected for metabolic analysis and transcriptional sequencing. The results indicated that under the condition of regular and non-disease growth of broilers, compared with that of the THR85 and THR150 groups, the metabolic profile of the THR125 group was significantly higher than that of the standard requirement group. Compared with the THR100 group, the THR125 group improved antioxidant ability and immunity of broilers and enhanced the ability of resisting viruses. The antioxidant gene CAT was upregulated. PLCD1, which is involved in immune signal transduction and plays a role in cancer suppression, was also upregulated. Carcinogenic or indirect genes PKM2, ACY1, HK2, and TBXA2 were down-regulated. The genes GPT2, glude2, and G6PC, which played an important role in maintaining homeostasis, were up-regulated. Therefore, the present study suggests that 125% of the NRC recommendations for Thr level had better effects on antioxidant and immune capacity, as well as maintaining the homeostasis of the body.
Can Responsible Ownership Practices Influence Hunting Behavior of Owned Cats?: Results from a Survey of Cat Owners in Chile
Authors: Escobar-Aguirre Sebastián , Alegría-Morán Raúl A. , Calderón-Amor Javiera , Tadich Tamara A.
Published: September 2019

The domestic cat (Felis catus) has become a worldwide threat to wildlife. The potential impact of owned cats on wildlife in Chile has not been documented at a large scale. The purpose of this study was to investigate the number and type of prey that owned cats bring back in Chile and its relation with responsible ownership practices. An online survey was distributed to 5216 households that included questions about the type of pet, responsible ownership practices, and in the case of cats, the type of prey they brought home. Descriptive statistics as well as univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were applied. The results showed that 94.3% of respondents had a pet, and from these, 49.9% had at least one cat. A total of 84.1% of owners reported that their cats had brought back prey. Birds were the most common type of prey, followed by mammals and insects. Not being registered with a microchip, not having a litter box, living in a house with access to a garden, not having a hiding place for the cats, and having free access to the outdoors significantly increased the odds of cats bringing back prey. Body condition score or providing ad libitum food to cats did not have an effect on bringing prey.
Evaluation of Immunocompetent Urinary Tract Infected Balb/C Mouse Model For the Study of Antibiotic Resistance Development Using Escherichia Coli CFT073 Infection
Authors: Chockalingam Ashok , Stewart Sharron , Xu Lin , Gandhi Adarsh , Matta Murali K. , Patel Vikram , Sacks Leonard , Rouse Rodney
Published: September 2019

Urinary tract infections (UTI) are common worldwide and are becoming increasingly difficult to treat because of the development of antibiotic resistance. Immunocompetent murine models of human UTI have been used to study pathogenesis and treatment but not for investigating resistance development after treatment with antibiotics. In this study, intravesical inoculation of uropathogenic Escherichia coli CFT073 in immunocompetent Balb/c mice was used as a model of human UTI. The value of the model in investigating antibiotic exposure on in vivo emergence of antibiotic resistance was examined. Experimentally infected mice were treated with 20 or 200 mg/kg ampicillin, 5 or 50 mg/kg ciprofloxacin, or 100 or 1000 mg/kg of fosfomycin. Ampicillin and ciprofloxacin were given twice daily at 8 h intervals, and fosfomycin was given once daily. Antibiotic treatment began 24 h after bacterial inoculation and ended after 72 h following the initial treatment. Although minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) for the experimental strain of E. coli were exceeded at peak concentrations in tissues and consistently in urine, low levels of bacteria persisted in tissues in all experiments. E. coli from bladder tissue, kidney, and urine grew on plates containing 1× MIC of antibiotic, but none grew at 3× MIC. This model is not suitable for studying emergent resistance but might serve to examine bacterial persistence.
Directional Active Noise Control with a Local Minimax Error Criterion
Authors: Chi Kexun , Wu Ming , Han Rong , Gong Chen , Yang Jun
Published: September 2019

The traditional mean squared error (MSE) criterion can be formulated as a quadratic function of a vector of control filter coefficients, and it is easy to obtain optimal control filter coefficients. Although the MSE criterion can lead to noise reductions in the control area, an unpredictable directional residual sound field is generated. In this paper, we propose a method for multi-channel active harmonic noise control with a local minimax error criterion based on the Nelder–Mead algorithm, which leads to reductions at all error positions and greater reductions at controllable positions. Directional noise reduction experiments of two areas are presented for two different error criteria at discrete locations in an anechoic chamber. Compared with a system employing the traditional MSE criterion, the results show that an active noise control system with the proposed criterion can achieve extra reductions at specified locations and overall noise reductions at the same time. The present research offers some important insights into directional control.
The Ultrafast Laser Ablation of Li(Ni0.6Mn0.2Co0.2)O2 Electrodes with High Mass Loading
Authors: Zhu Penghui , Seifert Hans Jürgen , Pfleging Wilhelm
Published: September 2019

Lithium-ion batteries have become the most promising energy storage devices in recent years. However, the simultaneous increase of energy density and power density is still a huge challenge. Ultrafast laser structuring of electrodes is feasible to increase power density of lithium-ion batteries by improving the lithium-ion diffusion kinetics. The influences of laser processing pattern and film thickness on the rate capability and energy density were investigated using Li(Ni0.6Mn0.2Co0.2)O2 (NMC 622) as cathode material. NMC 622 electrodes with thicknesses from 91 µm to 250 µm were prepared, while line patterns with pitch distances varying from 200 µm to 600 µm were applied. The NMC 622 cathodes were assembled opposing lithium using coin cell design. Cells with structured, 91 µm thick film cathodes showed lesser capacity losses with C-rates 3C compared to cells with unstructured cathode. Cells with 250 µm thick film cathode showed higher discharge capacity with low C-rates of up to C/5, and the structured cathodes showed higher discharge capacity, with C-rates of up to 1C. However, the discharge capacity deteriorated with higher C-rate. An appropriate choice of laser generated patterns and electrode thickness depends on the requested battery application scenario; i.e., charge/discharge rate and specific/volumetric energy density.
Multi-Objective Optimization for Plug-In 4WD Hybrid Electric Vehicle Powertrain
Authors: Wang Zhengwu , Cai Yang , Zeng Yuping , Yu Jie
Published: September 2019

This paper focuses on the parameter optimization for the CVT (a continuously variable transmission) based plug-in 4WD (4-wheel drive) hybrid electric vehicle powertrain. First, the plug-in 4WD hybrid electric vehicle (plug-in 4WD HEV)’s energy management strategy based on the CD (charge depleting) and CS (charge sustain) mode is developed. Then, the multi-objective optimization’s mathematical model, which aims at minimizing the electric energy consumption under the CD stage, the fuel consumption under the CS stage and the acceleration time from 0–120 km/h, is established. Finally, the multi-objective parameter optimization problem is solved using an evolutionary based non-dominated sorting genetic algorithms-II (NSGA-II) approach. Some of the results are compared with the original scheme and the classical weight approach. Compared with the original scheme, the best compromise solution (i.e., electric energy consumption, fuel consumption and acceleration time) obtained using the NSGA-II approach are reduced by 1.21%, 6.18% and 5.49%, respectively. Compared with the weight approach, the Pareto optimal solutions obtained using NSGA-II approach are better distributed over the entire Pareto optimal front, as well as the best compromise solution is also better.
Development of an Autonomous Underwater Helicopter with High Maneuverability
Authors: Wang Zhikun , Liu Xun , Huang Haocai , Chen Ying
Published: September 2019

Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) are the mainstream equipment for underwater scientific research and engineering. However, it remains a great challenge for AUVs to carry out near-seabed operations because of their poor maneuverability. In this paper, a new design for a high-maneuverability disc-shaped AUV is proposed, namely, the Autonomous Underwater Helicopter (AUH). We designed the AUH’s propulsion system through dynamic analysis based on the unique disc shape. The experimental prototype was built by mechatronics technology, after which several motion experiments were carried out to demonstrate the high maneuverability. We find that the prototype has high maneuverability: it can cruise at 0.8 m/s (about 1.5 knots), at least; its turning radius is zero and its turning speed is at least 20 deg/s; and the motion of specific curves in a small range was completed. It is demonstrated that over-actuation is not necessary for the high-maneuverability AUH because of its unique disc shape. A propulsion system consisting of four propellers and a buoyancy adjustment system is used for the highly maneuverable AUH. In addition, the AUH may be a solution for near-seafloor operations.
Stomatal Response of Maize (Zea mays L.) to Crude Oil Contamination in Soils
Authors: Zhang Chaolan , Huang He , Zhou Yongxin , Lin Haiying , Xie Tian , Liao Changjun
Published: September 2019

In this study, maize plant was cultured in soil contaminated with different levels of crude oil. The purpose was to investigate the change of soil properties, leaf physiological and chemical parameters, and phenanthrene content in the leaf. Results showed that soil water content significantly increased when the levels of total petroleum hydrocarbons were 3700–17,800 mg/kg in soil, and soil electrical conductivity significantly increased compared with the control. In maize leaf, stomatal length and density, as well as K and Na contents decreased in contaminated treatments compared with the control. Stomatal length has a significant positive correlation with K content in leaf (r = 0.92, p < 0.01), while stomatal density was negatively correlated to the crude oil level in soil (r = −0.91, p < 0.05). Accumulation of phenanthrene in maize leaf was mainly through the foliar uptake pathway. Phenanthrene concentrations of maize leaf in oil-treated soil were less than that of the control, which exhibited a significant positive relationship with stomatal length (r = 0.98, p < 0.01). This study demonstrated that the stomata structure of maize could be influenced by crude oil and thus possibly controlling the accumulation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in aerial tissues. Based on these results, controlling stomata movement will be beneficial to phytoremediation of contaminated soil.
Effects of Polypropylene Fiber on the Liquefaction Resistance of Saturated Sand in Ring Shear Tests
Authors: Bai Yuxia , Liu Jin , Song Zezhuo , Bu Fan , Qi Changqing , Qian Wei
Published: September 2019

This study focused on investigating the effects of polypropylene fiber on the liquefaction resistance of saturated sand. We performed a battery of tests with a state-of-the-art ring shear apparatus on fiber-reinforced saturated sand, considering the influences of fiber content and sand density. Two different shearing methods named shear-torque-controlled (STC) and cyclic-torque-controlled (CTC) were considered for carrying out the tests. An energy approach was chosen to evaluate the results, and the fiber reinforcement mechanisms were analyzed. Our test results showed that in STC tests, the shear strength and shearing time of saturated sand increased proportionally to an increase of fiber content and sand density. The cycles required for liquefaction in CTC tests also increase with an increase in sand density and fiber content. The presence of fibers clearly increases the shear energy required for liquefaction. The shear energy increases with an increase in sand density and fiber content. Greater total shear energy is required in specimens with a higher density or larger fiber content. Fiber reinforcement in sand has acted as a spatial network in interlocking soil grains, thereby resulting in the necessity of more energy for overcoming the resistance during the shearing process. After performing the shearing test, the unreinforced specimen with loose structure collapsed totally, and the one with a dense structure collapsed partially, while fiber reinforcement specimens still maintained structural stability.
Improving Accuracy and Reliability of Bluetooth Low-Energy-Based Localization Systems Using Proximity Sensors
Authors: Kolakowski Marcin
Published: September 2019

One of the functionalities which are desired in Ambient and Assisted Living systems is accurate user localization at their living place. One of the best-suited solutions for this purpose from the cost and energy efficiency points of view are Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)-based localization systems. Unfortunately, their localization accuracy is typically around several meters and might not be sufficient for detection of abnormal situations in elderly persons behavior. In this paper, a concept of a hybrid positioning system combining typical BLE-based infrastructure and proximity sensors is presented. The proximity sensors act a supporting role by additionally covering vital places, where higher localization accuracy is needed. The results from both parts are fused using two types of hybrid algorithms. The paper contains results of simulation and experimental studies. During the experiment, an exemplary proximity sensor VL53L1X has been tested and its basic properties modeled for use in the proposed algorithms. The results of the study have shown that employing proximity sensors can significantly improve localization accuracy in places of interest.
Understanding Electromagnetic Interactions and Electron Transfer in Ga Nanoparticle–Graphene–Metal Substrate Sandwich Systems
Authors: Gutiérrez Yael , Giangregorio Maria M. , Brown April S. , Moreno Fernando , Losurdo Maria
Published: September 2019

Plasmonic metal nanoparticle (NP)–graphene (G) systems are of great interest due their potential role in applications as surface-enhanced spectroscopies, enhanced photodetection, and photocatalysis. Most of these studies have been performed using noble metal NPs of silver and gold. However, recent studies have demonstrated that the noble metal–graphene interaction leads to strong distortions of the graphene sheet. In order to overcome this issue, we propose the use of Ga NPs that, due to their weak interaction with graphene, do not produce any deformation of the graphene layers. Here, we analyze systems consisting of Ga NP/G/metal sandwich coupling structures, with the metal substrate being, specifically, copper (Cu) and nickel (Ni), i.e., Ga NP/G/Cu and Ga NPs/G/Ni. We experimentally show through real-time plasmonic spectroscopic ellipsometry and Raman spectroscopy measurements of the quenching of the Ga NP localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) depending on the wetting of the graphene by the Ga NPs and on the electron transfer through graphene. Theoretical finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulations supportively demonstrate that the LSPR in such sandwich structures strongly depends on the contact angle of the NP with graphene. Finally, we also provide evidence of the electron transfer from the Ga NPs into the graphene and into the metal substrate according to the work function alignments. These considerations about the contact angle and, consequently, geometry and wetting of the metal NPs on graphene, are useful to guide the design of those plasmonic systems to maximize electromagnetic enhancement.
Experimental Investigations on the Temperature Increase of Ultra-High Performance Concrete under Fatigue Loading
Authors: Deutscher Melchior , Tran Ngoc Linh , Scheerer Silke
Published: September 2019

Leaner, more filigree, and resource-saving constructions are the development goal of the in the building industry. In reinforced concrete construction, a ultra-high strength concrete was developed to achieve these goals. Due to its use and requirements, this very pressure-resistant material is no longer only exposed to static loads. In applications such as wide-span bridges, machine foundations and wind turbines, the susceptibility to vibration is also significant. Research into the fatigue behavior of the new building material is therefore very important. In this article we will discuss the effect of heating up of high performance concretes under fatigue stress. The thesis is that warming up, which was already observed by several research groups, has an influence on the fatigue strength. Changes in the strength of the concrete or residual stresses generated by heating can lead to early failure. The aim is to find the reasons for the heating and the grade of influence on the fatigue strength. A systematic test program was developed to investigate the influencing parameters maximum stress level, frequency, and maximum grain size of the concrete. Thirty fatigue tests were carried out; the results will be presented here. The influence on the temperature increase as well as on the heating rate for the individual parameters will be discussed. The results show that all three discussed parameters have a significant influence on the temperature rise. Whereas the maximum temperature reached depends strongly on the frequency, the other two parameters mainly influence the heating rate.
The Therapeutic Potential of the Labdane Diterpenoid Forskolin
Authors: Salehi Bahare , Staniak Mariola , Czopek Katarzyna , Stępień Anna , Dua Kamal , Wadhwa Ridhima , Kumar Chellappan Dinesh , Sytar Oksana , Brestic Marian , Ganesh Bhat Namrata , Venkatesh Anil Kumar Nanjangud , del Mar Contreras María , Sharopov Farukh , C. Cho William , Sharifi-Rad Javad
Published: September 2019

Forskolin is mainly found in the root of a plant called Coleus forskohlii (Willd.) Briq., which has been used in the traditional medicine of Indian Ayurvedic and Southeast Asia since ancient times. Forskolin is responsible for the pharmacological activity of this species. Forskolin is a labdane diterpenoid with a wide biological effect. Several studies suggested a positive role of forskolin on heart complications, respiratory disorders, high blood pressure, obesity, and asthma. There are numerous clinical and pre-clinical studies representing the effect of forskolin on the above-mentioned disorders but more clinical studies need to be performed to support its efficacy.