bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of Groundwater Dynamics for Sustainable Water Resource Management in Bogra District, Northwest Bangladesh
Authors: Hasanuzzaman Mohammad , Song Xianfang , Han Dongmei , Zhang Yinghua , Hussain Shakir
Published: March 2017

The green revolution in the northwest region of Bangladesh over the past three decades has based on groundwater irrigation. For sustainable agricultural accretion, groundwater dynamics play a vital role in this region. In this study, the groundwater level dynamics have been analyzed with a model named “MAKESENS” and with geographical information systems (GIS). The study indicates that, in most of the wells, the water table (WT) depth and the rainfall intensity are declining slowly. The prediction of WT depth during the period of 2020, 2040, and 2060 indicate that, in some cases, the WT depth will approximately double by the year 2060, considering the present declining trend. This result suggests that, for the sustainable management of groundwater, necessary measures should be adopted to avoid or reduce the severe ecological, social, and economic impacts of groundwater mining. Moreover, crop diversification, conservation techniques, increasing irrigation efficiency, rainwater harvesting, etc. can be adopted to avoid groundwater declination and consequently to enhance the sustainable use of groundwater resources in the area.
Evaluation of a complex intervention to improve primary care prescribing: a phase IV segmented regression interrupted time series analysis
Authors: MacBride-Stewart Sean , Marwick Charis , Houston Neil , Watt Iain , Patton Andrea , Guthrie Bruce
Published: March 2017

Background

It is uncertain whether improvements in primary care high-risk prescribing seen in research trials can be realised in the real-world setting.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of a 1-year system-wide phase IV prescribing safety improvement initiative, which included education, feedback, support to identify patients to review, and small financial incentives.

Design and setting

An interrupted time series analysis of targeted high-risk prescribing in all 56 general practices in NHS Forth Valley, Scotland, was performed. In 2013–2014, this focused on high-risk non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in older people and NSAIDs with oral anticoagulants; in 2014–2015, it focused on antipsychotics in older people.

Method

The primary analysis used segmented regression analysis to estimate impact at the end of the intervention, and 12 months later. The secondary analysis used difference-in-difference methods to compare Forth Valley changes with those in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (GGC).

Results

In the primary analysis, downward trends for all three NSAID measures that were existent before the intervention statistically significantly steepened following implementation of the intervention. At the end of the intervention period, 1221 fewer patients than expected were prescribed a high-risk NSAID. In contrast, antipsychotic prescribing in older people increased slowly over time, with no intervention-associated change. In the secondary analysis, reductions at the end of the intervention period in all three NSAID measures were statistically significantly greater in NHS Forth Valley than in NHS GGC, but only significantly greater for two of these measures 12 months after the intervention finished.

Conclusion

There were substantial and sustained reductions in the high-risk prescribing of NSAIDs, although with some waning of effect 12 months after the intervention ceased. The same intervention had no effect on antipsychotic prescribing in older people.
Le peuplement animal des karsts de France (Éléments de biogéographie souterraine pour les Invertébrés). Première partie : la faune aquatique
Authors: Ginet René , Juberthie Christian
Published: March 2017

The biogeographical distribution of Invertebrate animals in french karsts (First part : The aquatic fauna)

This text analyses the bibliographic data in order to draw up a schematic representation of the biogeographical distribution of Invertebrate animals found in French karsts up to 1985. The animal population of these karsts is very varied, especially in the south of France. For many groups, there are obvious links with geological history and paleo-ecology. This text first lists the aquatic groups (from Porifera to Crustacea ; the latter is the most varied and numerous in karstic water). It puts forward possible solutions to the problems posed by the ways followed by the ancestors of present-day groups, either of superficial freshwater origin, or of marine origin during the Tertiary, and whose areas were later modified by the impact of Quaternary glaciations. For the terrestrial groups (cf. Karstologia n° 11), subterranean penetration followed different pathways, among which the Superficial Hypogean Compartment (M.S.S. = Milieu Souterrain Superficiel) plays an obvious role ; this shows that many troglobites are not limited, in the underground environment, to just caves and the karst. The Arthropods, and among them the Insects, are of course the most varied and the best known. Their biogeographical distribution reflects the problems of speciation, ecology and endemism, which are discussed in the text.
Effects of Conversion to a Bicarbonate/Lactate-Buffered, Neutral-PH, LOW-GDP PD Regimen in Prevalent PD: A 2-Year Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Farhat Karima , Douma Caroline E. , Ferrantelli E. , ter Wee Pieter M. , Beelen Robert H.J. , van Ittersum Frans J.
Published: March 2017

Background

The use of pH-neutral peritoneal dialysis (PD) fluids low in glucose degradation products (GDP) may better preserve the peritoneal membrane and have fewer systemic effects. The effects of conversion from conventional to neutral-pH, low-GDP PD fluids in prevalent patients are unclear. Few studies on the role of neutral-pH, low-GDP PD have studied residual renal function, ultrafiltration, peritonitis incidence and technique failure, transport characteristics, and local and systemic markers of inflammation in prevalent PD patients.

Methods

In a multi-center open-label randomized clinical trial (RCT), we randomly assigned 40 of 78 stable continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD) and automated PD (APD) patients to treatment with bicarbonate/lactate, neutral-pH, low-GDP PD fluid (Physioneal; Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Deerfield, IL, USA) and compared them with 38 patients continuing their current standard lactate-buffered PD fluid (PDF) (Dianeal; Baxter Healthcare Corporation, Deerfield, IL, USA) during 2 years. Primary outcome was residual renal function (RRF) and ultrafiltration (UF) during peritoneal equilibration test (PET); peritonitis incidence was a secondary outcome. Furthermore, clinical parameters as well as several biomarkers in effluents and serum were measured.

Results

During follow-up, RRF did not differ between the groups. In the Physioneal group ultrafiltration (UF) during PET remained more or less stable (-20 mL [confidence interval (CI): -163.5 – 123.5 mL]; p = 0.7 over 24 months), whereas it declined in the Dianeal group (-243 mL [CI: -376.6 to -109.4 mL]; p < 0.0001 over 24 months), resulting in a difference of 233.7 mL [95% CI 41.0 – 425.5 mL]; p = 0.017 between the groups at 24 months. The peritonitis rate was lower in the Physioneal group: adjusted odds ratio (OR) 0.38 (0.15 – 0.97) p = 0.043. No differences were observed between the 2 groups in peritoneal adequacy or transport characteristics nor effluent markers of local inflammation (cancer antigen [CA]125, hyaluronan [HA], vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF], macrophage chemo-attractant protein [MCP]-1, HA and transforming growth factor [TGF]β–1).

Conclusion

In prevalent PD patients, our study did not find a difference in RRF after conversion from conventional to neutral-pH, low-GDP PD fluids, although there is a possibility that the study was underpowered to detect a difference. Decline in UF during standardized PET was lower after 2 years in the Physioneal group.
Acute Peritoneal Dialysis in Patients with Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Cho Seong , Lee Yu-Ji , Kim Sung-Rok
Published: March 2017

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy, complications, and mortality rate associated with acute peritoneal dialysis (PD) in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI).

Methods

A total of 75 patients who were treated at Samsung Changwon Hospital between February 2005 and March 2016 were included in the study sample. The outcomes included in-hospital survival, renal recovery, metabolic and fluid control rates, and technical success rates.

Results

Refractory heart failure was the most frequent cause of acute PD (49.3%), followed by hepatic failure (20.0%), septic shock (14.7%), acute pancreatitis (9.3%), and unknown causes (6.7%). The hospital survival of patients in the acute PD was 48.0%. Etiologies of acute kidney injury (AKI) (refractory heart failure, acute pancreatitis compared with hepatic failure, septic shock or miscellaneous causes), use of inotropes, use of a ventilator, and simplified acute physiology score (SAPS) II were associated with survival differences. Maintenance dialysis required after survival was high (80.1% [29/36]) due to AKI etiologies (heart or hepatic failures). Metabolic and fluid control rates were 77.3%. The technical success rate for acute PD was 93.3%.

Conclusion

Acute PD remains a suitable treatment modality for patients with AKI in the era of continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Nearly all patients who require dialysis can be dialyzed with acute PD without mechanical difficulties. This is particularly true in patients with refractory heart failure and acute pancreatitis who had a weak requirement for inotropes.
Research of the micromechanics of composite materials with polymer matrix failure under static loading using the acoustic emission method
Authors: URBAHS Aleksandrs , BANOVS Muharbijs , CARJOVA Kristine , TURKO Vladislav , FESHCHUK Jurijs
Published: March 2017

Micromechanics of composite materials’ failure has been investigated under static loading by means of acoustic emission (AE) method. The results showed that for samples made of fiberglass with transverse fibers with respect to the applied load, the process of destruction both in the deformation parameters and in the parameters of total AE has two stages of damage accumulation. At the same time the parameter of total AE shows that the process of destruction begins 5–6% earlier than it is shown by the deformation parameter. Also the nature of the total AE change was analysed.
Innovation in airport design
Authors: MEDVEDEV Alexander , ALOMAR Iyad , AUGUSTYN Slawomir
Published: March 2017

This article discusses the issue of innovation in airport design which is supported by aviation project management. This is why the decision making process on innovation in an airport’s design should correlate with future perspectives in aviation. This process influences a decrease in time and money lost during the period of leading an aviation project. A good result is obtained through selected essential information and analysis of the airport management process in order to achieve efficiency in aircraft operation. What is more, the innovation in airport design is closely related with the safety of aircraft and security of passengers.
CHANGING PROVISION AND USE OF NEIGHBOURHOOD PUBLIC SPACE IN NEPAL’S KATHMANDU VALLEY
Authors: CHITRAKAR Rajjan Man , BAKER Douglas C. , GUARALDA Mirko
Published: March 2017

Modern cities have witnessed a significant level of transformation of urban environments, in which the urban neighbourhoods of recent origin have also changed. This paper explores the transformation of public space in contemporary urban neighbourhoods of the Kathmandu Valley in Nepal. It examines the changing provision and use of public space through a case study of three recent neighbourhoods using observations and interviews. The study identifies fundamental differences in the development of public space, suggesting that public spaces are no longer the central elements of new neighbourhoods. Further changes with the provision of public space include the existing spatial configuration of open spaces, the loss of social quality of neighbourhood streets and the rise of alternative public venues. The changing provision of public space has influenced the use with the shifting locations of public activities. There is a growing tendency to use the streets as a public space along with other privately owned public spaces. While a large portion of public space remains underutilised or has been put into an inappropriate use, some new uses of public spaces are also noticed in the changing context.
The Proposal Auto-Categorizer and Manager for Time Allocation Review at the Space Telescope Science Institute
Authors: Strolger Louis-Gregory , Porter Sophia , Lagerstrom Jill , Weissman Sarah , Reid I. Neill , Garcia Michael
Published: March 2017

The Proposal Auto-Categorizer and Manager (PACMan) tool was written to respond to concerns about subjective flaws and potential biases in some aspects of the proposal review process for time allocation for the Hubble Space Telescope (HST), and to partially alleviate some of the anticipated additional workload from the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) proposal review. PACMan is essentially a mixed-method Naive Bayesian spam filtering routine, with multiple pools representing scientific categories, that utilizes the Robinson method for combining token (or word) probabilities. PACMan was trained to make similar programmatic decisions in science category sorting, panelist selection, and proposal-to-panelists assignments to those made by individuals and committees in the Science Policies Group (SPG) at the Space Telescope Science Institute. Based on training from the previous cycle’s proposals, at an average of 87%, PACMan made the same science category assignments for proposals in Cycle 24 as the SPG. Tests for similar science categorizations, based on training using proposals from additional cycles, show that this accuracy can be further improved, to the

level. This tool will be used to augment or replace key functions in the Time Allocation Committee review processes in future HST and JWST cycles.
A Search for Lost Planets in the Kepler Multi-planet Systems and the Discovery of the Long-period, Neptune-sized Exoplanet Kepler-150 f
Authors: Schmitt Joseph R. , Jenkins Jon M. , Fischer Debra A.
Published: March 2017

The vast majority of the 4700 confirmed planets (CPs) and planet candidates discovered by the Kepler mission were first found by the Kepler pipeline. In the pipeline, after a transit signal is found, all data points associated with those transits are removed, creating a “Swiss cheese”-like light curve full of holes, which is then used for subsequent transit searches. These holes could render an additional planet undetectable (or “lost”). We examine a sample of 114 stars with 3+ CPs to evaluate the effect of this “Swiss cheesing.” A simulation determines that the probability that a transiting planet is lost due to the transit masking is low, but non-negligible, reaching a plateau at ∼3.3% lost in the period range of P = 400–500 days. We then model all planet transits and subtract out the transit signals for each star, restoring the in-transit data points, and use the Kepler pipeline to search the transit-subtracted (i.e., transit-cleaned) light curves. However, the pipeline did not discover any credible new transit signals. This demonstrates the validity and robustness of the Kepler pipeline’s choice to use transit masking over transit subtraction. However, a follow-up visual search through all the transit-subtracted data, which allows for easier visual identification of new transits, revealed the existence of a new, Neptune-sized exoplanet (Kepler-150 f) and a potential single transit of a likely false positive (FP) (Kepler-208). Kepler-150 f (P = 637.2 days,

R⊕) is confirmed with >99.998% confidence using a combination of the planet multiplicity argument, an FP probability analysis, and a transit duration analysis.
Luther et la question de la conscience. Problématisation et esquisse d’enjeux contemporains
Authors: Causse Jean-Daniel
Published: March 2017

Luther a forgé une compréhension originale de la conscience qui n’est pas d’abord pour lui conscience morale ou instance de connaissance, mais le plus intime de l’être humain, son centre ou son cœur. L’article montre que Luther a fait de la conscience un décentrement du sujet par rapport à lui-même. La conscience situe l’intime, et même l’intime de l’intime, dans un « dehors ». En cela, elle n’est pas le fait d’un humain qui décide à partir de lui, dans une sorte d’autonomie présomptueuse ; elle place le sujet en situation de « secondarité », répondant à ce qui l’interpelle tout en demeurant dans une impossible transparence à soi. Paradoxalement, Luther a ainsi pensé la conscience libre comme une conscience captive. En conclusion, sont évoqués quelques enjeux contemporains de la conscience en tant qu’elle est l’être excentré.
La notion de « loi naturelle » : que peut nous apporter Jean Duns Scot ?
Authors: Foyer Dominique
Published: March 2017

À la fin du xiii e siècle, le franciscain Duns Scot innove en répondant à la question classique : « Tous les préceptes du Décalogue appartiennent-ils à la loi naturelle ? ». S’écartant résolument du thomisme qui fonde la loi divine sur la rationalité des natures, il montre que la loi naturelle ne couvre que ce qui s’impose avec évidence à tous les êtres dotés de raison et de volonté. Dieu, étant tout-puissant, est libre d’édicter la loi morale qu’il veut. La seule limite s’imposant à lui est celle de l’amour : Dieu ne peut pas vouloir ne pas être ce qu’il est. Il s’aime et doit donc être aimé de tous. Tous les autres préceptes sont révocables. La loi morale n’est plus fondée sur la nature des choses mais sur la liberté des agents.
La loi naturelle chez Luther et dans la théologie luthérienne
Authors: Lehmkühler Karsten
Published: March 2017

L’affirmation que la théologie protestante se dresserait contre l’idée d’une loi naturelle fait partie des mythes théologiques. En fait l’article montre que Luther, Melanchthon et Calvin affirment tous l’existence d’une loi naturelle, inscrite par Dieu lui-même dans le cœur des humains. Luther, en particulier considère avec beaucoup d’attention la loi naturelle exprimée essentiellement dans le décalogue, et traduisant une connaissance générale du bien et du mal ou encore la règle d’or, sans pour autant que cette loi soit comprise dans un sens naturaliste, ni ne détermine des législations précises. Si les théologiens protestants contemporains restent sceptiques sur l’utilisation de la loi naturelle pour régler les problèmes d’éthique appliquée, un regain d’intérêt est aujourd’hui perceptible, en lien avec la doctrine de la création.
Propuesta de cálculo de la resistencia a cortante de vigas armadas de acero de canto variable
Authors: Bedynek A. , Real E. , Mirambell E.
Published: March 2017

En la literatura pueden encontrarse numerosos estudios experimentales y numéricos sobre vigas armadas de acero de canto constante sometidas a cortante. Sin embargo, muchas estructuras de acero se proyectan, frecuentemente, con elementos de canto variable. El objetivo del artículo es ofrecer una formulación para el cálculo de la resistencia última a cortante de paneles de alma de canto variable, basada en un nuevo modelo mecánico, que es utilizado para mostrar las diferencias de comportamiento entre paneles de alma de canto constante y variable, sometidos a cortante. Las reglas de cálculo de EN 1993-1-5 para determinar la resistencia a cortante de paneles de alma de canto constante se mejoran para poder evaluar la resistencia a cortante de paneles de canto variable. Los numerosos estudios numéricos llevados a cabo sobre vigas armadas de acero de canto variable confirman la idoneidad del modelo mecánico y de la nueva expresión propuesta para el cálculo.
Evolución del tamaño de la vivienda de promoción pública y su comparación con el resto del parque residencial construido en Madrid entre 1940-2010
Authors: Moya González L. , Fernández Salgado C. , Escamilla Valencia F.
Published: March 2017

Los valores cualitativos positivos de gran parte de la promoción pública residencial (VP) en Madrid han sido puestos de manifiesto en diferentes estudios, habida cuenta de la limitada economía de medios en su construcción. Sin embargo, una primera idea sobre la carestía de tamaño ha acompañado a la VP, identificándola como una vivienda pequeña. El artículo analiza si es así, si el parque que se conserva de VP en Madrid promovido desde 1940 y hasta 2010 resulta ser especialmente pequeño. Con ello se pretende conocer cuál ha sido la evolución de su tamaño a lo largo del tiempo y si la VP es más reducida que el resto, coetánea o vecina. Para ello se ha realizado el levantamiento de la VP que se conserva en Madrid sobre la base de datos pormenorizados del Catastro. La explotación de los resultados da respuesta a las preguntas formuladas, poniendo de manifiesto un empate.
An Enhanced Distributed Localization Algorithm Based on MDS-MAP in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Lu , Wang Hailun , Hu Zhiyong , Wang Deyong
Published: March 2017

The classical MDS-MAP algorithm is a centralized algorithm, with an increase in nodes, the algorithm attains a high degree of complexity. In order to solve the shortcomings of the positioning accuracy and the computational complexity of the matrix in the classical MDS-MAP algorithm, an enhanced distributed MDS-MAP localization algorithm was designed and realized (EMDS-MAP(D)). The EMDS-MAP(D) algorithm does not need auxiliary hardware facilities, and can be used for the local computation of nodes, thereby reducing the amount of computation and communication .It is suitable for a shielding environment. The algorithm calculates the coordinates of relative nodes without the anchor node, only transformation absolute coordinates need a Global Positioning System (GPS) to locate a certain amount of coordinates (usually less than 10) and the number of the positioning coordinates does not depend on the size of the network. Theoretical analysis and simulation experimental results show that EMDS-MAP(D) can realize distributed computing and improve the positioning accuracy of the node.
On the Design of High Precision Factory Temperature Control System Based on Wireless Sensor
Authors: Hu Xiaodong
Published: March 2017

Based on the investigation and analysis of the current status of pharmaceutical cold chain at home and abroad, this paper comes up with a solution for pharmaceutical cold chain temperature monitoring, develops an intelligent temperature recorder based on wireless sensor network technology, and makes a detailed introduction to the software and hardware implementation of the wireless sensor nodes of the recorder and the monitoring terminal. Besides, the author tests the performance of the recorder multiple times. The results show that the design basically fulfils the expected goals.
Research on Interference Optimization Mechanism of Wireless Routing Signal Transmission Based on Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation Method
Authors: Wang Xinchun , Zhang Haishan , Li Mi , Li Ying
Published: March 2017

Inherently dynamic in nature, wireless sensor network transmits data less efficient and reliable, and thus the conventional routing protocol is inapplicable to the new type of wireless sensor network. Such being the case, this paper first analyzes this problem and proposes a routing interference optimization mechanism FCE based on distributed fuzzy comprehensive evaluation. The fuzzy principle is introduced to the priority calculation of the node. In doing so, the fuzzy linear transformation principle and the maximum membership principle are used to classify the dynamic nature of candidate nodes and to select well-performed candidates from the optimal candidate nodes. In spite of the few number of those candidates, they are qualified to compete for the right of next-hop forwarding, such that the routing interference will become less probable and the data forwarding is rendered more efficient. Finally, through a simulation test, our method is verified effective.
Intelligent Big Data Analytics
Authors: Malhotra Dheeraj , Verma Neha , Rishi Om Prakash , Singh Jatinder
Published: March 2017

With the explosive increase in regular E Commerce users, online commerce companies must have more customer friendly websites to satisfy the personalized requirements of online customer to progress their market share over competition; Different individuals have different purchase requirements at different time intervals and hence novel approaches are often required to be deployed by online retailers in order to identify the latest purchase requirements of customer. This research work proposes a novel MR apriori algorithm and system design of a tool called IMSS-SE, which can be used to blend benefits of Apriori-based Map Reduce framework with Intelligent technologies for B2C E-commerce in order to assist the online user to easily search and rank various E Commerce websites which can satisfy his personalized online purchase requirement. An extensive experimental evaluation shows that proposed system can better satisfy the personalized search requirements of E Commerce users than generic search engines.
ABDITS Analysis, Design, and Working of Agents
Authors: Mahlawat Shweta , Dhyani Praveen , Rishi OmPrakash
Published: March 2017

Agent technology has been suggested by experts to be a promising approach to address the challenges of the modern computer based education. “An autonomous agent is a system situated within and a part of an environment that senses that environment and acts on it, over time, in pursuit of its own agenda and so as to effect what it senses in the future” (Franklin & Graesser, 1996). Any agent, in accordance with this definition, satisfies four properties: autonomy, social ability, reactivity and pro-activeness. By using intelligent agents in an ITS architecture it is possible to obtain an individual tutoring system adapted to the needs and characteristics of every student. In this chapter, the authors are going to present a multiagent system i.e. named ABDITS which is distributed, dynamic, intelligent and adaptive with Pedagogy view for learners in intelligent system. This system is an integration of adaptive web-based learning with expert systems as well. A crucial feature of the ABDITS personal agent is that the case based reasoning approach for student modeling.
Simulation for Distributed Assembly Line Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Parihar Shwetank , Bhar Chandan
Published: March 2017

In the given study we have undertaken a comprehensive analysis on the simulation of different products emerging out from the assembly line. The study starts from collection of point of view of different authors from various studies. Then it has been found that the system of distributed manufacturing can be used to prepare a model that can be simultaneously simulated. The introduction of systems under a bigger system is introduced for accommodating the complete supply chain in a single diagram. The system is then implemented with the help of Petri NET software and the operational parameters are analysed by the output. The case study undertaken is of a cable manufacturing firm in which the methodology suggested is implemented and it is validated that such a methodology can help on controlling the different systems from a single point of control.
Mining Electronic Health Records to Guide and Support Clinical Decision Support Systems
Authors: Jonnagaddala Jitendra , Dai Hong-Jie , Ray Pradeep , Liaw Siaw-Teng
Published: March 2017

Clinical decision support systems require well-designed electronic health record (EHR) systems and vice versa. The data stored or captured in EHRs are diverse and include demographics, billing, medications, and laboratory reports; and can be categorized as structured, semi-structured and unstructured data. Various data and text mining techniques have been used to extract these data from EHRs for use in decision support, quality improvement and research. Mining EHRs has been used to identify cohorts, correlated phenotypes in genome-wide association studies, disease correlations and risk factors, drug-drug interactions, and to improve health services. However, mining EHR data is a challenge with many issues and barriers. The aim of this chapter is to discuss how data and text mining techniques may guide and support the building of improved clinical decision support systems.
Modeling and Simulation Analyses of Healthcare Delivery Operations for Inter-Hospital Patient Transfers
Authors: Chen Chialin , Zhao Samson X.
Published: March 2017

Inter-hospital transfers of patients for different elements of care have been increasingly used as a common strategy for providing quality healthcares through sharing limited resources worldwide. In this paper, the authors study the problem of healthcare delivery operations for inter-hospital patient transfers motivated by a real-world case within the South East Local Health Integration Network of Ontario. The authors use a directed graph to develop a general model for obtaining the solution that minimizes the overall transportation time while satisfying all the inter-hospital transfer requests with identical or different start and end points. The authors also perform simulation analyses to study the fleet sizing problem through evaluating different service performances with different fleet sizes. A number of implementation issues for managing inter-hospital patient transfer services are also discussed.
Creating a Supportive Environment for Self-Management in Healthcare via Patient Electronic Tools
Authors: Balouchi Sharazade , Keshavjee Karim , Zbib Ahmad , Vassanji Karim , Toor Jastinder
Published: March 2017

Consumer electronic healthcare applications and tools, both Web-based and mobile apps, are increasingly available and used by citizens around the world. “eTools” denote the full range of electronic applications that consumers may use to assess, track, or treat their disease(s), including communicating with their healthcare provider. Consumer eTool use is prone to plateauing of use because it is one-sided (i.e., consumers use them without the assistance or advice of a healthcare provider). Patient eTools that allow patients to communicate with their healthcare providers, exchange data, and receive support and guidance between visits is a promising approach that could lead to more effective, sustained, and sustainable use of eTools. The key elements of a supportive environment for eTool use include 2-way data integration from patient home monitoring equipment to providers and from provider electronic medical records systems to patient eTools, mechanisms to support provider-patient communication between visits, the ability for providers to easily monitor incoming data from multiple patients, and for provider systems to leverage the team environment and delegate tasks to appropriate providers for education and follow-up. This is explored in this chapter.
Computerisation of Clinical Pathways
Authors: Tehrani Jasmine
Published: March 2017

Patient safety incidents are becoming more common in medical situations. The challenge of achieving significant improvements in patient safety is one of the key tasks facing healthcare at the start of the 21st century. Clinical pathways and clinical guidelines provide a measure of standardisation to help reduce medical error, but are often manually created and also prone to human error. This chapter explores the error issues regarding clinical pathways. It presents a method for generating clinical pathways from a semiotic perspective that can addresses social and informal/safety factors which conspire to influence the outcome of patient interaction and safety.
Problem-Based Learning in Transformative Nursing Education
Authors: Yarbrough-Yale Renee
Published: March 2017

The purpose of this chapter is to identify the components and the use of problem-based learning in a transformative nursing education environment. A problem-based learning environment provides adult learners the opportunity to work through realistic problems they may encounter in their clinical environment. Through the use of ill-defined problems, adult learners identify what is known, what is not known, and what needs to be known in order to solve problems. In this style of education, adult learners build upon their own knowledge base in order to solve these problems. This type of learning environment places educators in a unique position to assess the problem solving and critical thinking skills of students and provide feedback as needed.
A Viewpoint of Security for Digital Health Care in the United States
Authors: Demurjian Steven A. , Algarín Alberto De la Rosa , Bi Jinbo , Berhe Solomon , Agresta Thomas , Wang Xiaoyan , Blechner Michael
Published: March 2017

In health care, patient information of interest to health providers, researchers, public health researchers, insurers, patients, etc., is stored in different locations via electronic media and/or hard-copy formats. All potential users need electronic access to health information technology systems such as: electronic health records, personal health records, patient portals, and ancillary systems such as imaging, laboratory, pharmacy, etc. Controlling access to information from multiple systems requires granularity levels of privileges ranging from one patient to a cohort to an entire population. In this paper, we present a viewpoint of the state of secure digital health care in the United States, focusing on the resources that need to be protected as dictated by legal entities and regulations, the available approaches in the present state-of-the art, and, the potential needs for the future of security for digital health care. By utilizing a real world scenario, the authors explore the limitations of health information exchange in the United States, and present one possible architecture for secure digital health care that builds on existing technology alternatives.
Performance Properties of Irradiated Recycled Polypropylene as a Compatibilizer in Recycled Polypropylene/Microcrystalline Cellulose Composites
Authors: Samat Noorasikin , Lazim Nurul Hakimah Mohd , Motsidi S.N.R. , Hassan Noor Azlina
Published: March 2017

Effects of irradiated rPP compatibilizer, on the mechanical and thermal properties of recycled polypropylene/microcrystalline cellulose composites (rPP/MCC), are investigated. rPP is irradiated with an electron beam at dosages ranging from 10, 20, 30 to 50kGy. A matrix, containing of unirradiated and irradiated rPP (50:50 by ratio), is then added to 5, 20 and 40wt% MCC fibres. The composites are prepared using a twin screw extruder, followed by injection moulding. The properties are then characterized using tensile and thermal degradation tests. The improvement of Young’s modulus by up to about 45% suggests a compatibilising effect of the irradiated rPP. Fracture surface observations reveal an adhesion between rPP matrix and MCC fibres. However, the thermal stability deteriorated with the addition of MCC and irradiated rPP.
Optimizing Injection Parameters of Kenaf Filler Polypropylene Composite by Taguchi Method
Authors: Md Radzi Mohd Khairul Fadzly , Muhamad Norhamidi , Sulong Abu Bakar , Razak Zakaria
Published: March 2017

Optimization of injection molding parameters provided a solution to achieve strength improvement of kenaf filler polypropylene composites. Since, molded polymers composites possibility being effected by machine parameters and other process condition that may cause poor quality of composites product. Thus in this study, composite of kenal filler reinforced with thermoplastic polypropylene (PP) were prepared using a sigma blade mixer, followed by an injection molding process. To determine the optimal processing of injection parameters, Taguchi method with L27 orthogonal array was used on statistical analysis of tensile properties of kenaf/PP composites. The results obtained the optimum parameters which were injection temperature 190°C, injection pressure 1300 bar, holding pressure 1900 bar and injection rate 20cm3/s. From the analysis of variance (ANOVA), both flow rate and injection temperature give highest contribution factor to the mechanical properties of the kenaf/PP composites.
Cutting Edge: Loss of T Cell RIAM Precludes Conjugate Formation with APC and Prevents Immune-Mediated Diabetes
Authors: Lagarrigue Frederic , Gertler Frank B. , Ginsberg Mark H. , Cantor Joseph M.
Published: March 2017

Rap1-interacting adaptor molecule (RIAM) is a Rap1 effector that mediates the recruitment of talin to integrins, thereby supporting their activation. In this study, we investigated the role of RIAM in an adoptive transfer model for type I diabetes and report that RIAM expression in T cells is necessary for diabetes development. Loss of RIAM did not prevent lymphocyte recruitment to draining lymph nodes 24 h after transfer, but it was required for Ag-driven proliferation and cytotoxic killing. RIAM is recruited to immune synapses along with talin and LFA-1, and loss of RIAM profoundly suppresses Ag-dependent conjugate formation in primary naive and effector T cells. These data identify the requirement of RIAM for formation of immunological synapses and in resulting T cell functions in autoimmunity. Moreover, because RIAM-null mice are healthy, fertile, and display no bleeding abnormalities, our results identify RIAM and its regulators as potential targets for therapies of T cell–mediated autoimmunity.
Cutting Edge: β-Catenin–Interacting Tcf1 Isoforms Are Essential for Thymocyte Survival but Dispensable for Thymic Maturation Transitions
Authors: Xu Zhe , Xing Shaojun , Shan Qiang , Gullicksrud Jodi A. , Bair Thomas B. , Du Yubin , Liu Chengyu , Xue Hai-Hui
Published: March 2017

T cell factor 1 (Tcf1) is essential for T cell development; however, it remains controversial whether β-catenin, a known coactivator of Tcf1, has a role. Tcf1 is expressed in multiple isoforms in T lineage cells, with the long isoforms interacting with β-catenin through an N-terminal domain. In this study, we specifically ablated Tcf1 long isoforms in mice (p45−/−mice) to abrogate β-catenin interaction. Although thymic cellularity was diminished in p45−/− mice, transition of thymocytes through the maturation stages was unaffected, with no overt signs of developmental blocks. p45−/− thymocytes showed increased apoptosis and alterations in transcriptome, but these changes were substantially more modest than in thymocytes lacking all Tcf1 isoforms. These data indicate that Tcf1–β-catenin interaction is necessary for promoting thymocyte survival to maintain thymic output. Rather than being dominant-negative regulators, Tcf1 short isoforms are adequate in supporting developing thymocytes to traverse through maturation steps and in regulating the expression of most Tcf1 target genes.
Digital geoscience atlas of Baie Verte Peninsula, Newfoundland and Labrador
Authors: Skulski T , Castonguay S , Côté N , McNicoll V J , Currie M , Magee A , Harris B , van Staal C R
Published: March 2017

The Baie Verte Peninsula is located in the northern Appalachians of Newfoundland. It is underlain by the ancestral Laurentian continental margin (Humber zone), the accreted (Taconic Orogeny) Cambrian Baie Verte Oceanic Tract and its Ordovician ophiolite
volcano-sedimentary cover. These three marine successions were intruded by late Ordovician to Silurian felsic plutons and associated subaerial volcanic cover emplaced prior to, and during the Salinic Orogeny. There is a long history of mineral exploration and mining on the Baie Verte Peninsula, with
the most important commodities being gold, copper and asbestos. To assist in the understanding and exploration of this geologically diverse region, the Baie Verte digital geoscience atlas, a companion output to three previously released Canadian Geoscience Maps, contains GIS datasets including new
and compiled bedrock geology (with 1:50,000 pdf maps). These are combined with compiled structural geology, geochronology (U/Pb and 40Ar/39Ar), lithogeochemistry, metallogeny (mines and drilled prospects), reprocessed aeromagnetic survey data (government and industry survey data), a digital
elevation model, and base-map data (topography, hydrographic etc.). These GIS data are compatible with a number of GIS platforms, and have also been organized into a project suitable for viewing via ESRI ArcReader(TM) (links provided).
Dibujos de la primera arquitectura de Nueva España: Mapas, Planos y proyectos de arquitectura del siglo XVI
Authors: Moya Olmedo Pilar
Published: March 2017

Los dibujos de la arquitectura que ya no existe surgen como fieles cronistas de la historia para que esta sea recuperada.

El estudio de la historia del territorio a través de su arquitectura y sus dibujos es posible ya que estos surgen como consecuencia del conocimiento y posesión del mismo. Hablar de la arquitectura de Nueva España en el siglo xvi es hablar de una arquitectura de conquista; de la arquitectura de las ciudades que construyeron los españoles, pero sobre todo de la arquitectura militar que fue la que apareció desde el comienzo mismo de la conquista.
Características formales de las iglesias salón valencianas del s. XVIII
Authors: Saez Riquelme Beatriz
Published: March 2017

Las iglesias de planta salón, constituyen un tipo de construcción religiosa extendido por parte de Europa y América. Sin embargo, sus escasas y escuetas definiciones, que fundamentalmente se centran en la enumeración de apenas un par de sus características formales: altura de sus naves y elementos que las separan; junto a la imprecisión y la carencia de rigor técnico con que son planteadas, origina incertidumbre frente a su identificación.

La finalidad del presente artículo es paliar esta deficiencia, enumerando de forma concreta y exacta cada uno de los elementos que definen su morfología. La disertación se aborda mediante el estudio ‘in situ’ de los propios edificios, de sus levantamientos de planos y de la escasa planimetría original existente, centrándose en las construidas en el Reino de Valencia durante el siglo xviii, de las que no hay constancia de ninguna definición publicada.
El dibujo manual como herramienta transversal en la obra de Juan Navarro Baldeweg
Authors: Bolívar Montesa Carmen
Published: March 2017

Esta investigación nos remite de la obra al proceso creativo, como origen de la singularidad de la obra de Navarro, estadio en el que el dibujo manual siempre está presente como herramienta. En una actividad artística en que la mano es partícipe de la gestación y desarrollo de la obra, y en el caso de la pintura, de su materialización, es necesario valorar transversalmente su capacidad creativa en el proceso estableciendo su potencialidad a través del dibujar. Un proceso creativo que toma distancia de la actividad artística contemporánea y establece una continuidad entre una determinación personal común y la especificidad de los diversos medios artísticos. El dibujo se produce en un circuito cerrado: ojo-manomente –consciente e inconsciente– y atiende desigualmente a la creación y producción de arquitectura, pintura, piezas e instalaciones. El dibujo explora –ensaya, resuelve, anticipa–, expresa –codifica, simboliza, habita– y crea proyecto estableciendo sus propias metas.
Unos dibujos de Le Corbusier perdidos en Londres
Authors: Jiménez Caballero Inmaculada
Published: March 2017

Este artículo presenta cinco dibujos –dos de ellos inéditos– de Le Corbusier para la conferencia a los alumnos de la Architectural Association de Londres en diciembre de 1947, en la celebración de su centenario; también fragmentos del texto original en francés, grabado y luego transcrito. Una versión adaptada fue publicada en Architect & Building News de 2 de enero de 1948 y en Irena Murrey and Julian Osley Le Corbusier in Britain. An Antology. en 2009, junto con dos de las imágenes. El texto original según la grabación y dos de las imágenes permanecían inéditos.
La invención de la retícula urbana: escuadra y arado. Una cuestión geométrica y agrícola
Authors: García Sánchez Rafael
Published: March 2017

Nos preguntamos por el origen de los trazados ortogonales. Frecuentemente, se afirma que el trazado hipodámico es el más natural e intuitivo ¿Es una invención griega? La arqueología
demuestra que en la historia humana los fenómenos culturales obedecen a creaciones e invenciones tecnológicas. Sospechamos que calificativos como los de “natural” e “intuitivo”, pueden ocultar una inevitable subordinación al cálculo de áreas y al trazado parcelario y agrícola, que se lleva a cabo en el neolítico, en los entornos llanos y fértiles de los ríos.
Pensamiento visual en Patrick Geddes
Authors: Díaz Garrido Mercedes
Published: March 2017

Este artículo indaga en el papel que lo visual desempeña en la teoría sobre la ciudad de Patrick Geddes a través del análisis de tres ejemplos. Una de las teorías más completas, en la que los mecanismos de mejora de la ciudad aparecen indisolublemente ligados al proceso de conocimiento-acción transformadora sobre la misma. La imagen aparece como importante herramienta de pensamiento, de introspección y de comunicación, dentro de dicho proceso.
Review of regional Antarctic snow accumulation over the past 1000 years
Authors: Thomas Elizabeth R. , van Wessem J. Melchior , Roberts Jason , Isaksson Elisabeth , Schlosser Elisabeth , Fudge TJ , Vallelonga Paul , Medley Brooke , Lenaerts Jan , Bertler Nancy , van den Broeke Michiel R. , Dixon Daniel A. , Frezzotti Massimo , Stenni Barbara , Curran Mark , Ekaykin Alexey A.
Published: March 2017

Abstract. Here we review Antarctic snow accumulation variability, at the regional scale, over the past 1000 years. A total of 80 ice core snow accumulation records were gathered, as part of a community led project coordinated by the PAGES Antarctica 2k working group. The ice cores were assigned to seven geographical regions, separating the high accumulation coastal zones below 2000 m elevation from the dry central Antarctic Plateau. The regional composites of annual snow accumulation were evaluated against modelled surface mass balance (SMB) from RACMO2.4 and precipitation from ERA-interim reanalysis. With the exception of the Weddell Sea coast, the low-elevation composites capture the regional precipitation and SMB variability. The central Antarctic sites lack coherency and are either not representing regional precipitation or indicate the models inability to capture relevant precipitation processes in the cold, dry central plateau. The drivers of precipitation are reviewed for each region and the temporal variability and trends evaluated over the past 100, 200 and 1000 years. Our study suggests an overall increase in SMB across the grounded Antarctic ice sheet of ~ 44 GT since 1800 AD, with the largest (area-weighted) contribution from the Antarctic Peninsula (AP). Only four ice core records cover the full 1000 years and suggest a decrease in snow accumulation during this period. However, our study emphasizes the importance of low elevation coastal zones (especially AP and DML), which have been underrepresented in previous investigations of temporal snow accumulation.