bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compétitivité internationale du secteur agroalimentaire français : c’est quoi le problème ?
Authors: Gaigné Carl , Latouche Karine , Turolla Stéphane
Published: May 2020

Cet article apporte un éclairage nouveau sur les raisons d’une croissance moins rapide des ventes de l’industrie agroalimentaire française par rapport à ses principaux concurrents étrangers, à la fois sur le marché domestique et à l’international. À partir de travaux récents en économie internationale, nous rappelons que le coût du travail n’est qu’un facteur explicatif parmi d’autres de la dégradation de la compétitivité de la France. L’absence de gain de productivité, le manque de compétitivité hors-prix ou encore des coûts d’accès aux marchés étrangers relativement élevés participent fortement à ce constat.
Territorialiser les circuits de consommation : la solution pour créer des cercles vertueux qui bénéficient aux producteurs agricoles
Authors: Schelcher Dominique
Published: May 2020

La question de la rémunération des agriculteurs est intrinsèquement liée à l’internationalisation du marché alimentaire et à l’évolution de nos modes de consommation. Aujourd’hui, le comportement des consommateurs reflète un paradoxe : s’ils souhaitent valoriser des produits de qualité, impliquant une meilleure rémunération des producteurs, ils ne sont pas toujours prêts à dépenser davantage. C’est pourquoi la solution réside dans l’évolution progressive de nos habitudes : une transition allant de pair avec l’émergence de nouveaux circuits pour nos filières et une territorialisation du parcours des marchandises. Alors que les premiers effets bénéfiques de la loi EGalim se font ressentir, nous avons la responsabilité, en tant que distributeur et acteur des territoires, de multiplier les initiatives locales et transparentes, à l’instar des contrats tripartites que nous concluons avec nos producteurs, et de participer à la consolidation de nouvelles filières, comme le bio.
L’excellence sanitaire : une obligation, qui constitue un facteur de compétitivité à l’international
Authors: Ly Carole
Published: May 2020

Afin d’éviter la diffusion de maladies d’origine animale ou végétale, tout comme celles véhiculées par des organismes nuisibles, les entreprises qui souhaitent exporter des produits agricoles et agroalimentaires doivent répondre à un certain nombre de règles sanitaires et phytosanitaires. Bien que l’existence d’un système sanitaire performant en Europe et en France facilite les négociations avec les pays tiers pour en définir les conditions d’application, le respect des exigences SPS européennes ne suffit plus pour exporter en dehors de l’Europe : les règles tendent à se multiplier et à se complexifier, obligeant les entreprises à s’adapter. La capacité des entreprises à respecter ces exigences devient à l’international un facteur de compétitivité et de réassurance vis-à-vis du consommateur.
La bio-production en agroalimentaire
Authors: Siben Cédric
Published: May 2020

La bio-production est une production de matériaux ou matières (dont des composés chimiques et des aliments) qui utilise, à au moins un stade de la fabrication, le vivant (micro-organismes, enzymes, protéines complexes, génétique). Le terme est issu du grec bios (qui signifie « vie ») et du latin productio (qui signifie « conduire en avant »). Les technologies concernées sont appelées « biotechnologies ». Il ne faut pas confondre « bio-production » et « production bio », cette dernière obéissant à des règles strictes en matière de pratiques culturales et d’utilisation de produits (par exemple, les pesticides) ou de compléments alimentaires.
Laplacian and signless laplacian spectra and energies of multi-step wheels
Authors: Chu Zheng-Qing ,   Department of Mathematics and Physics, Anhui Xinhua University, Hefei 230088, China, Munir Mobeen , Yousaf Amina , Qureshi Muhammad Imran , Liu Jia-Bao ,   Division of Science and Technology, University of Education, Lahore 54000, Pakistan,   Department of Mathematics, COMSATS University Islamabad, Vehari campus, Vehari 61100, Pakistan,   School of Mathematics and Physics, Anhui Jianzhu University, Hefei 230601, China
Published: May 2020

Energies and spectrum of graphs associated to different linear operators play a significant role in molecular chemistry, polymerisation, pharmacy, computer networking and communication systems. In current article, we compute closed forms of signless Laplacian and Laplacian spectra and energies of multi-step wheel networks Wn, m. These wheel networks are useful in networking and communication, as every node is one hoop neighbour to other. We also present our results for wheel graphs as particular cases. In the end, correlation of these energies on the involved parameters m ≥ 3 and n is given graphically. Present results are the natural generalizations of the already available results in the literature.
Traditional Knowledge and Arbitration Dispute Resolution
Authors: Tuteja Venu Parnami
Published: May 2020

The unique requirements of the Indigenous people with respect to the intellectual property are very different. There are many conflicts regarding the questions of culturally appropriate usage, sharing of knowledge, and proper attribution. The process followed by courts may not resolve their issues. They have distinct social, cultural, and economic needs. The redressal system should be such that it helps to maintain and protect their position. ADR is one of the best to resolve their disputes as it offers a number of possibilities. The main methods of ADR are negotiation, mediation, and conciliation. WIPO plays a role in providing ADR arbitration rules in regards to the Indigenous people and local communities. The WIPO Arbitration and Mediation Centre was established in 1994 providing the resolution among the private parties regarding their international commercial disputes across borders. Through this chapter, questions such as the extent of ADR in resolving these issues and can this centre be considered as an appropriate forum for addressing the issues and settling them are presented.
Biopiracy
Authors: Bhukta Anindya , Jana Sebak Kumar
Published: May 2020

Bio-piracy indicates unauthorized use of bio-resources of a country either by the individuals or institutions or companies of other countries. The countries with enormous bio-resources, like India, become the victims of biopiracy. The paper highlights different issues relating to biopiracy in the context of food security of India. It has been argued that the distress of farmers has increased a lot after the emergence of GM seeds. First of all, GM seeds raise the cost of cultivation by monopolizing the seed business in the hands of a few. Secondly, taking monopoly control over the market by the MNCs became easier because technology allowed them to develop seeds which can be used once-for-all. The farmers, therefore, have to give up their traditional practice of saving and sharing of seeds. The paper cites various instances of biopiracy in India and explains how biopiracy jeopardizes the food security and health security of the people in India. Events of piracy of plants with medicinal values and medicinal knowledge of traditional healers are also on increase at a rapid pace in India. This trend also poses challenges health security of India. More initiatives need to be taken at different levels including government and NGOs need to be taken in documenting codified and non-codified traditional knowledge (TK).
Sustainable Fashion
Authors: Saksena Ruchi A.
Published: May 2020

Fashion is undergoing a change in its very definition. The global fashion industry has grown at massive rates over the last decade and hence holds the power to influence a multitude of people. Sustainable fashion is one such concept that has influenced the design thinking of various creative heads across India and abroad. The awareness about sustainable fashion makes one realise several forms of sustainablity that can be adapted in a lifestyle. All strategies promoting more environmentally, socially, and ethically conscious production and consumption are important steps towards a more sustainable industry and, hence, a sustainable future. This chapter explores sustainable fashion.
Thread of Sustainability
Authors: Ansari Nagma Sahi , Deb Roy Anannya , Banerjee Sharmistha
Published: May 2020

This chapter aims to look into the current practices of fashion production and consumption and argues for a sustainable model. This model advocates the need of conscious creation and consumption, mindful connection with the community, and conservation of the ecology. It opens up conversations about fetishistic attitudes vs. sustainable practices and how production and consumption behaviors are manufactured in postmodern society. With interpretative epistemological stance, this chapter follows qualitative research methodology to develop an alternative model of fashion production and consumption. This alternative model, ‘C3 Model of Art of Fashion', is the result of a qualitative study conducted amongst artisans, consumers, and entrepreneurs of Kantha.
Achieving Women Empowerment Through ICT
Authors: Singh Swati , Vanka Sita
Published: May 2020

While research in the past establishes the important role of women empowerment in improving several economic and socio-economic indicators, achieving women empowerment remains a distant dream. This chapter discusses the role played by information and communication technologies (ICT) in promoting women empowerment. It highlights the empowerment dynamics and their adverse impact on empowerment with the scrutiny of related models. It attempts to broaden the understanding related to the impact of ICT by discussing the direct and indirect impacts of ICT interventions. In addition, it highlights the role of ICT in women empowerment with the help of a case study. The case presented here peculiarly emphasises the crucial role played by government agency in implementing strategic interventions for women empowerment through the case of Raj Mahila Suraksha initiative by Government of Rajasthan, India.
Gender Digital Divide and Technology-Enabled Inclusive Strategies
Authors: Balagopal Bindu
Published: May 2020

Digital technology opens up a direct window for women to the outside world. Information flows to them without distortion or any form of censoring, and they have access to the same information as their counterparts. This leads to broadening of perspectives, building up of greater understanding of their current situation, and causes of poverty and the initiation of interactive processes for information exchange. Furthermore, such forms of networking open up alternate forms of communication. The present study is an analysis of the digital gender divide and strategies that are inclusive when it comes to women. It also deals with impact of the significant reduction in the cost of internet services that will enable more women to use the internet more frequently for information.
Economic Security and Empowerment of Rural Women
Authors: Ramamoorthi Suganda
Published: May 2020

Economic security is a fundamental cord that would enhance the empowerment levels of women. In the patriarchal family structure, women have little or no access to economic resources, making them vulnerable. Social sanction for femicide, social and cultural discriminatory practices, and violence against women have curtailed women's choices and freedom. The impact of the elimination of girl children and strong son preference has deprived women of their economic entitlements. The case study is of particular interest as it is undertaken in Usilampatti taluk in Tamil Nadu, India, which is notorious for the practice of female foeticide and infanticide leading to low sex ratio. This chapter is an attempt to identify how rural women who have escaped femicide negotiate with gender asymmetry, reorganize the power relations within the family and market structure, manage economic resources, and emerge as independent leaders both in the private and public domains.
Contextualizing Healthcare Needs of the Transgender Community in Kerala
Authors: A. K. Jayasree , M. V. Bindu
Published: May 2020

Kerala witnessed a transformation in recent times in the case of social acceptance of the transgender community. Participation in HIV/AIDS projects gave them some social recognition. There was a turning point in the situation when the Supreme Court judgement came in 2014 on National Legal Service Authority vs Government of India. It started to formulate policies and welfare schemes to support the transgender community. Following this, the Kerala government drafted the Transgender Policy in 2015. The present situation is much improved. Yet there is not much improvement in healthcare services. There is no protocol or guidelines for treatment, which may result in practice without quality assurance and high cost. This chapter is an attempt to review the situation of the transgender community in Kerala before and after the transgender policy to look into achievements and gaps in security measures, including healthcare access.
Kudumbashree
Authors: Chacko Jose P.
Published: May 2020

Kudumbashree, established in Kerala, India in the year of 1998 was perceived not merely as one SHG-based women empowerment programme in the narrow sense, but as a poverty eradication mission of Kerala. Kudumbashree is a multifaceted programme focusing primarily on microfinance and micro-enterprise development, but at the same time integrally linked to local self-government institutions. Kudumbashree enhances the civic participation in the development process in a grass root level, particularly, deepen democracy, strengthen social capital, facilitate efficiency sustained growth and gender mainstreaming. Kudumbashree has succeeded to empower women by boosting women's sense of self-worth; right to have and to determine choices; right to have access to opportunities and resources; right to have the power to control their own lives, both within and outside the home; and ability to influence the direction of social change to create a more just, social and economic order.
Gender Justice and Empowerment
Authors: Khurana Neeta Avtar , Sharma Ritu
Published: May 2020

This study is an impact assessment study of the rehabilitation work done for Chhara women in the rural precincts of Ahmedabad district in the state of Gujarat, India. The women of this community are infamous absconders of law and active bootleggers of locally made liquor. As part of a psychological study with a local NGO, the authors headed an impact assessment study of training program aimed at rehabilitating and providing these women alternate modes of employment, thereby driving them away from a life of crime. The chapter centers on the idea of women entrepreneurship and women empowerment. This study argues that making these poor women self-dependent is a panacea for their sluggish development. This has further led the community astray into making illegal country liquor causing further damage to their reputation. Women are at the centre of this vicious circle facing much repression and ostracisation.
A Radical More-Than-Human Intersectionality in Ecologically Compromised Times
Authors: Fejzic Sanita
Published: May 2020

Gender-based analysis+(GBA+) efforts by the Canadian government that attend to climate change often focus on ‘sustainable management' of ‘resources' alongside inclusion of vulnerable groups at decision-making tables; meanwhile, scholars and activists focus attention toward eco- and social-justice models couched in good nation-to-nation relations with Indigenous communities. This chapter suggests that attunement to Indigenous knowledges and other-than-humans (nonhuman animals, plants, and elements such as water) is necessary in the wake of global ecological collapse, founded on principles of responsibility and respect of Indigenous sovereignty over land and attunement to Indigenous ‘caretaking relations' with other-than-humans.
Social Injustice Tormented the Psyche of Parentless Children
Authors: M. Alagesan , Kumar S. Horizan Prasanna , Bose B. Meadows
Published: May 2020

This study explores how social injustice affects the characters of the three parentless children in the novel Jazz, which tells the story of a triangular love. This chapter highlights civil rights movements which impact on black people and future generations. It is the story about the three parentless children who suffer because of the lack of parent's guidance. Morrison tries to instill the importance of mothers by depicting the lives of the three orphaned protagonists and how they meet with a fatal end.
One Size Doesn't Fit for All
Authors: Eusobia Anto Maria
Published: May 2020

Language is a means of communication. Learning a mother tongue is an ecstasy, but learning a second language is an acrimonious bliss. There is many research which focus on the enhancement of L2 learning. One of the ways to enhance the L2 learning is to focus on the individual differences (IDs) of the learners. Where one size does not fit for all. Each learner enjoys and searches the apt one for their size. This chapter focuses on one of the IDs i.e. language learning strategies (LLS). It is the actions, plans, and steps possessed and developed by the learner to enhance the L2 learning. This chapter is an attempt to investigate the awareness of rural learners about their LLS, and to identify the strategy preferences of the rural intermediate level learners and the tertiary level learners. Thus, this chapter identifies the awareness and preferences of LLS of rural learners.
Factor Affecting Innovation Performance of Manufacturing Firms
Authors: Dhir Sanjay , Dhir Swati
Published: May 2020

In the knowledge-based economy, creation, management, and dissemination of knowledge in an organized way will certainly enhance the innovative practices of companies in any country. This article has tried to explore the impact of various factors on innovation. Following a qualitative research methodology, the article has come up with 8 propositions and tried to build up the arguments in the real company's context in India by 3 case studies. The research has been able to provide necessary evidence of particular companies and tried to build arguments for the suggested propositions. The findings of the research article will certainly help academicians and practitioners to emphasize the intellectual property related laws of any country to enhance the innovation quotient of any country.
Tourism-Driven Mobilities
Authors: Ranasinghe Ruwan , Cheng Li
Published: May 2020

Mobilities discourse, regardless of its vital significance in day-to-day life, is under examined. It draws researchers' attention at theoretical level showing significant absence of empirical studies. The absence of a scale to measure tourism driven mobilities (TDM) hinders quantitative empirical work. This study focuses on developing and validating a scale to measure TDM from the resident perspective at a fast-growing postwar tourist destination. Item generation was conducted in several stages to ensure vigorous measurement of subjects. The questionnaire was fielded using multistage sampling to collect 1,135 responses in three stages at Dambulla and Sigiriya UNESCO world heritage zones. A confirmatory factor analysis succeeded 26 items with 5 dimensions in the final scale explaining a total of 84 percent variance of TDM. Governance and capital were identified as key mobility stimuli based on factor loadings. The article proposes a scale to measure TDM from local residents' perspective replenishing mobilities literature. The scale sets new methodological directions in tourism mobility research. The TDM scale requisites further validation to establish generalizability.
Exploring Health Information Exchange Through a System of Systems Framework
Authors: Wang Chaojie
Published: May 2020

Clinical decisions require timely availability of holistic patient health information including clinical, demographic, behavioral, and socioeconomic risk factors. Health information exchanges (HIEs) help bridge the technical and organizational divides between disparate Electronic health records (EHR) systems and facilitate the sharing of health information between providers and between patients and providers through collaborative governance, secure protocols, and interoperable standards. HIEs come in many varieties and can be highly complex, both technically and organizationally. This conceptual paper adopts a system of systems (SoS) framework from the systems engineering discipline to analyze and break down the complexity of HIEs. The mnemonic nature of the five characteristics of the Boardman and Sauser SoS Model (A for Autonomy, B for Belonging, C for Connectivity, D for Diversity, and E for Emergence) makes it easier to understand the intricacy of HIEs and helps remove the barriers to effective use of HIEs for care coordination, patient safety, and patient-centered care quality.
The IASO Self-Reporting System
Authors: Kamoun Faouzi , El Barachi May , Hamilton Russell , Khelifa Ahmed Ben Hadj
Published: May 2020

Mood swings are commonly observed phenomena among hospitalized patients. As a result, there has been a growing interest in developing solutions that can assist caregivers in acquiring a better understanding of patient mood states and behaviors. A key challenge resides in the need to not only monitor patients' mood state but also to try to influence it and regulate it. This article presents the IASO self-reporting system, a persuasive clinical mood tracking, and a management application for hospital patients. We describe the design process of the system, its technical implementation details, and key features. Unlike most earlier related studies, IASO incorporates the concept of mood-based adaptive art (MBAA) that triggers animated digital art clips with background sounds in response to patients' self-reported mood states, thus offering a tool for creative healing and mood enhancement. Our proposed solution empowers patients to gain more control over their wellbeing, regulates their moods and enables caregivers to receive timely feedback about potential mood swings and dangerous mood conditions.
A Hybrid Optimization Method OWGWA for EEG/ERP Adaptive Noise Canceller With Controlled Search Space
Authors: Nagal Rachana , Kumar Pradeep , Bansal Poonam
Published: May 2020

In this paper, a system for filtering event-related potentials/electroencephalograph is exhibited by adaptive noise canceller through an optimization algorithm, oppositional hybrid whale-grey wolf optimization algorithm (OWGWA). The OWGWA can choose the control parameters of the grey wolf algorithm utilizing whale parameters. To balance out the randomness of optimization strategies another methodology is implemented called controlled search space. Adaptive filter's noise reduction capability has been tested through adding adaptive white Gaussian noise over contaminated EEG signals at different noise levels. The performance of the proposed OWGWA-CSS algorithm is evaluated by signal to noise ratio in dB, mean value, and the relationship between resultant and input ERP. In this work, ANCs are also implemented by utilizing other optimization techniques. In average cases of noisy environment, comparative analysis shows that the proposed OWGWA-CSS technique provides higher SNR value, significantly lower mean and higher correlation as compared to other techniques.
Separation of Particles Composed of a Solid Solution [Mg2SiO4 -Fe2SiO4] in the Sequence of Fe2+ Concentration Using a Pocketsize Magnetic-Circuit
Authors: Uyeda Chiaki , Hisayoshi Keiji , Terada Kentaro
Published: May 2020

Magentic separation generally required strong magnetic forces induced in ferromagnetic or strong paramagnetic particles; in order to realize the separation in diamagnetic or weak paramagnetic particles, it was necessary to attach magnetic beads or magnetic ions to induce the strong magnetic force. A method to separate mixture of weak magnetic particles by its concentration of paramagnetic ferrous ion is newly proposed, which does not require the abovementioned magnetic attachments. The efficiently of the new method is experimentally examined using a pocketsize magnetic circuit (4.5 cm x2.0 cm x 1.0 cm) and a piece of cross sectional paper (5.0 cm x1.0cm). The separation is based on a principle that velocity of a translating particle, induced by a magnetic volume force in an area of monotonically decreasing field, is uniquely determined only by its magnetic susceptibility (per unit mass) of the particle; the velocity is independent to mass of particle. By examining the spectra of the separated particles recovered on the cross sectional paper, a histogram on Fe concentration is easily obtained for the particles without the need of consuming them.
The Blue Light Defects Activation in A-Si:H Pin Photodiode as a Biosensor
Authors: Gradišnik Vera , Gumbarević Darko
Published: May 2020

The microfluidic Lab-On-Chip (LOC) systems, based on the CMOS technology, today grow rapidly based on requirement of the Point-of-care-testing (POCT). It is a need for a high sensitive biotransducers, as a part of biosensors to be integrated on LOC system. To detect low-level of light emitted by an analyte, promising material and devices are a p-i-n a-Si:H photodiodes. The observed absorbance of blue light in human cells HeLa (cervical carcinoma) induct H2O2 in same cells and consequently, chemical reaction with NO, detected as chemiluminescence signal by the photodiode, as well as formation of cytotoxic singlet oxygen. On the other side a-Si:H p-i-n photodiode has a high sensitivity on blue light at low-light intensity, good spectral responsivity and small reflectance for blue light, low dark current, low-noise in the range of low reverse bias voltages. The photoconductivity of a-Si:H p-i-n photodiode is influenced by the native and light induced localized state density and their energy distribution in the energy gap of intrinsic a-Si:H. It is observed that the defect states of i-layer at various bias voltages contribute to the detection of HeLa cells chemiluminescence. The optical bias dependence of modulated photocurrent method (OBMPC) using the blue LED light is applied to clarify the energy gap density of state nature and energy distribution, respectively in a-Si:H p-i-n photodiode i-layer.
Direct Polymer Additive Tooling - Economic Analysis of Additive Manufacturing Technologies for Fabrication of Polymer Tools for Injection Molding
Authors: Kampker Achim , Ayvaz Peter , Lukas Gerret
Published: May 2020

This research project aims to analyze the economic feasibility of Additive Manufacturing (AM) as supportive technology in Injection Molding (IM) tool manufacturing by estimating the potential cost-savings and lead-time reduction. Cost and lead-time considerations during small part quantity production are analyzed by developing an extended estimation model for the integration of AM in tool production. Based on six different real reference parts, the developed model shows the projected savings and the current limitations of AM applications in tool production due to material constraints. Furthermore, this extended model offers a holistic view on part cost and lead-time information, by considering tooling as well as production phases in IM and integrating tool life as a key variable. Hence, this research project closes a literature gap and facilitates the integration of AM into the IM process chain.
Numerical Modelling and Development of New Technical Solutions in Metallurgy and Material Processing
Authors: Pesin Alexander , Tandon Puneet , Pustovoytov D.O. , Korchunov Alexey , Pesin Ilya , Dubey A.
Published: May 2020

There have been no breakthroughs in ferrous metallurgy for the last 80 years. Automation and digitalization arrived, while the actual steel making processes saw almost no changes. Today, almost all industries experience rapid changes. In 2018 we will see a launch of trains that can travel as fast as1,200 km/h. In 2022 we will see aircrafts capable of flying from London to New York in 1 hour. They already know how to grow human arms and legs. And driverless taxis have become extremely popular. Should we be expecting to see a major breakthrough in metallurgy any time soon? In this paper you will learn about this and other problems, as well as possible ways to solve them. Also, the paper focuses on the results of the development of theory, mathematical models and novel processes, which were helpful in the forming of the ultra-high strength materials by combining the conventional methods of forming such as stamping, plate rolling, plastic bending and asymmetrical rolling. The ultimate aim was to manufacture parts having complex geometries of ultra-high strength sheets. Metalworking techniques like asymmetrical rolling gave rise to very high shear strains and it was used for increasing the strength of the materials. The addition of the incremental sheet forming to the varied combinations of conventional forming processes was used for increasing in the flexibility of the manufacturing process for ultra-high strength. The results of the research project were also encompassing numerical simulation and experimental investigations of the combined process accompanied by the development of the theoretical models for the same.
Experimental Study of Fiber Orientation Effect on Frictional Material Properties and Tribology Performance
Authors: Kamonrattanapisud Maitri , Tuchinda Karuna
Published: May 2020

The objective of this work is to study the fiber orientation effect on frictional material properties and tribology performance. Effects of orientation on hardness, maximum load capacity under bending, the friction coefficient and surface wear of the composites were investigated. In this research, 3D printing technique was used to create workpieces in order to control fiber arrangement which is random, 0, 45, and 90 degrees. The results suggested that the fiber direction insignificantly affects material hardness with all specimen showing similar value of average hardness of approx. 90 HRC. However, the fiber orientation had a strong influence on material bending strength. The specimen with forced fiber orientation showed lower bending resistance compared to that with random fiber orientation. This may be caused by the non-uniform distribution of fiber which could promote fracture initiation site in some area with low fiber density. The coefficient of friction of the composite material was found to strongly related to it wear behavior, i.e. higher wear rate results in higher value of friction coefficient. The wear resistance was found to be controlled by both the fiber direction and fiber interface. With fiber oriented at 90 degree to sliding direction, higher coefficient was observed. However, as surface wear took place, the effect of wear debris results in an increase in friction coefficient. For 3D printed specimen, wear was increased with fiber interface density resulting in higher wear rate of specimen with 0-degree fiber orientation compared to those with 45-and 90-degree orientation during. Hence, the specimen with 0 degree fiber direction showed similar value of coefficient of friction to those with random and 90 degree fiber orientation.
Novel Cathodes Consisting of La3Ni2O7+δ Mixed with Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-δ for Proton-Conductive Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (p-SOFCs)
Authors: Ding Hung Ghun , Sun Wei , Lin Jing Chie , Lee Sheng Wei , Jang Jason Shian Ching , Hung I Ming , Hsu Kai Ti , Lee Kan Rong
Published: May 2020

This work studied on the development of novel cathodes for proton-conductive solid oxide fuel cells (p-SOFCs) made of powders La3Ni2O7+δ (LNO2) mixed with Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-δ (BSCF). The cathodes were constructed by a skeleton of LNO2 whose surface coated by BSCF in the ratio (in wt. %) of LNO2/BSCF varying in 15/85, 30/70, 50/50, 75/25 (denote as LN15, LN30, LN50, and LN75, respectively). The skeleton was responsible for carrier conduction and air transportation; the BSCF coating was responsible for catalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Nascent powders directly collected from combustion were subject to examination by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffractometer (XRD) and further calcination. Well crystalized with highly pure powders obtained post their calcination at 900 °C. Performing the button cells by means of I-V testing at 600, 700 and 800°C, the data of maximum power density () depicted the order LN75 < BSCF < LN15 < LN30< LN50 regardless of temperatures. Among all the specimens, LN50 could be the best cathode candidate for P-SOFCs.
Comparative of the Use of Carbon and Steel Fiber to the Mechanical Properties of Self Compacting Concrete
Authors: Jonbi Jonbi , Arini Resti Nur , Permatasari Marisa , Simatupang Partogi H.
Published: May 2020

This research is a comparative study, the use of carbon fiber and steel fiber for Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC). In previous studies, it was proven that the addition of steel fibers can increase the compressive and tensile strength of SCC. While carbon fiber is one of the most widely used materials for structural reinforcement in recent years. Therefore it is necessary to do a comparative study of the use of carbon fiber if applied to SCC. The percentage increase in carbon fiber and steel is 0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%. Then do the testing of: slump test, compressive strength, tensile strength and flexural strength. The results showed the optimal percentage of steel fiber addition of 1.5%, can increase the compressive strength of SCC by 11%. However carbon fiber and steel do not increase the tensile strength of SCC, and tend to reduce flexural strength. Other results show that carbon fiber is not suitable for use in SCC.
Mechanical Efficiency and Biomechanical Performance of Innovative Sandwich-Like Composite Wall Biopanels - A Structural Alternative for Constructions in High-Risk Seismic and Windy Regions
Authors: González Oswaldo Mauricio , García Peñaloza Marcos Andrés , Barrigas Zhang Hua Lun , Andino Bustamante Nathaly Saray
Published: May 2020

The great potentials of wood species have not yet been fully tapped in Ecuador in order to propose feasible and eco-friendly alternatives that allow reducing/replacing conventional building materials. This investigation aims to determine the physical-mechanical properties of lightweight bidirectional sandwich-like composite wall panels made of bamboo (Dendrocalamus asper), melina (Gmelina arborea) and balsa (Ochroma pyramidale). To fulfil this purpose, 80 samples from four prototype biopanels were tested in accordance to the current American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) standards. The experimental results were validated and compensated by performing a total of 79 finite element analyses (FEA) that in turn allowed evaluating and analyzing both the mechanical efficiency and the biomechanical performance of the proposed biopanels. The results in this investigation showed sandwich-like composite wall biopanels with an enhanced mechanical efficiency that is up to nine times higher than steel, concrete, aluminum, wood and bricks. Results from the biomechanical analyses confirm the practical utilization of the proposed biopanels in low-rise and mid-rise buildings (i.e. between two and ten stories) located in high-risk seismic and windy regions. Thus, its implementation in the actual construction system will definitely implicate important upgrades in terms of structural optimization and sustainable practices. Indeed, the proposed wall biopanels are meant to be used in the rebuilding process of the dramatically affected areas during the 2016 Ecuador earthquake.
Kinetic Study on Microwave Magnetizing Roast of Fe2O3 Powders
Authors: Wang Lei , Kong Ling Bing , Guo Pei Min , Li Jie
Published: May 2020

In this paper, the reaction kinetic mechanism of Fe2O3 powder containing carbon was studied by microwave magnetizing roast. Based on the temperature-rise curve and weight loss curve of Fe2O3 powder by microwave magnetizing roast, the kinetic parameters of Fe2O3 powder microwave magnetizing roast were calculated by non-isothermal methods. The controlling steps of different temperature-rising periods in microwave magnetizing roast process of Fe2O3 powder were calculated by the Achar-Brindley-Sharp-Wendworth method. The results indicated that the controlling step of microwave magnetizing roast was phase boundary reaction control of contracted cylinder in 250~450°C, and it was three-dimensional diffusion control of spherical symmetry in 450~650°C. The results showed that the starting temperature of reduction roasting of Fe2O3 powder was 250°C, which was lower than that under electrical heating, thereby, it proved in theory that microwave heating can enhance reaction rate.
Double Trouble: Patients With Both True and False Arrhythmia Alarms
Authors: Nguyen Stella Chiu , Suba Sukardi , Hu Xiao , Pelter Michele M.
Published: May 2020

Background

Patients with both true and false arrhythmia alarms pose a challenge because true alarms might be buried among a large number of false alarms, leading to missed true events.

Objective

To determine (1) the frequency of patients with both true and false arrhythmia alarms; (2) patient, clinical, and electrocardiographic characteristics associated with both true and false alarms; and (3) the frequency and types of true and false arrhythmia alarms.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis using data from an alarm study conducted at a tertiary academic medical center.

Results

Of 461 intensive care unit patients, 211 (46%) had no arrhythmia alarms, 12 (3%) had only true alarms, 167 (36%) had only false alarms, and 71 (15%) had both true and false alarms. Ventricular pacemaker, altered mental status, mechanical ventilation, and cardiac intensive care unit admission were present more often in patients with both true and false alarms than among other patients (P < .001). Intensive care unit stays were longer in patients with only false alarms (mean [SD], 106 [162] hours) and those with both true and false alarms (mean [SD], 208 [333] hours) than in other patients. Accelerated ventricular rhythm was the most common alarm type (37%).

Conclusions

An awareness of factors associated with arrhythmia alarms might aid in developing solutions to decrease alarm fatigue. To improve detection of true alarms, further research is needed to build and test electrocardiographic algorithms that adjust for clinical and electrocardiographic characteristics associated with false alarms.
Navigating Symptom Management in Heart Failure: The Crucial Role of the Critical Care Nurse
Authors: Vuckovic Karen M. , Bierle Rebecca (Schuetz) , Ryan Catherine J.
Published: May 2020

High-acuity, progressive care, and critical care nurses often provide care for patients with heart failure during an exacerbation of acute disease or at the end of life. Identifying and managing heart failure symptoms is complex and requires early recognition and early intervention. Because symptoms of heart failure are not disease specific, patients may not respond to them appropriately, resulting in treatment delays. This article reviews the complexities and issues surrounding the patient’s ability to recognize heart failure symptoms and the critical care nurse’s role in facilitating early intervention. It outlines the many barriers to symptom recognition and response, including multimorbidities, age, symptom intensity, symptom escalation, and health literacy. The influence of self-care on heart failure management is also described. The critical care nurse plays a crucial role in teaching heart failure patients to identify and respond appropriately to their symptoms, thus promoting early intervention.
Effect of different commercial feeds on growth and reproductive performance of Guppy, Poecilia reticulata Peters
Authors: Kumaratunga P.H.S. , Radampola K.
Published: May 2020

A 15 week feeding trial was conducted to investigate the effects of three commercial feeds; Prima diet, Galaxy diet and Prawn diet on the growth performance and reproductive performance of Guppy, Poecilia reticulata. Triplicate groups of guppy juveniles (mean initial weight of 0.07 + 0.03g) were stocked in 9 indoor glass aquaria (30 x 22 x 8.5cm), at a density of 20 fish tank-1 at a sex ratio of 1:1. Fish were fed ad-libitum 5 times daily using respective diet and growth performance (Total length, weight, %SGR, FCR) and reproductive performance (Gonadosomatic index (GSI), Time taken for first spawning, total number of larvae, and spawning interval) were evaluated. Feed consumption (10.80-12.58 % Bwt/day) was not differed among treatments. The highest growth performance of fish in terms of final mean body weight (0.83+ 0.46g), total length (4.63 + 0.41cm), and specific growth rate (SGR 2.34 + 0.03)) was observed in the fish fed Prawn diet compared to fish fed on other two feeds. Total body weight and GSI were found to be significantly higher in females compared to males in all treatments. Fish fed on Prawn diet recorded the significantly highest mean number of larvae per tank (33.67 + 7.51). However, total length of larvae showed no significant difference among three treatments. In the present study significant highest growth and reproductive performance (in terms of number of larvae tank-1) of guppy was observed in fish fed on Prawn diet. Therefore, for guppy broodstock rearing in indoor aquaria Prawn diet could be recommended as the best feed out of three commercial diets tested herein.
Impact of Organizational Citizenship Behavior on Perceived Service Quality in Hotel Industry
Authors: Ratnayaka R.M. , Kumara P.A.P. Samantha , Silva M.W.S.W.
Published: May 2020

Though the prior studies have examined the service quality and organizational citizenship behavior in hotel industry, limited understanding exists on how the service quality could be enhanced by effective organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) of customer-contact employees of unclassified hotels. This study concerns about how OCB of customer-contact employees would impact the perceived quality of the customers. Accordingly, it is endeavored to empirically examine the impact OCB of customer contact employees on the service quality in hotel industry. A total of 70 unclassified hotels were selected randomly from the Southern Province, Sri Lanka. The sample consisted of 215 customer-contact employees and 375 customers of these hotels. Structured questionnaires were administered for data collection. Smart-PLS 3 package was used for running the analysis of SEM. The results indicate that the impact of service oriented organizational citizenship behavior on service quality is statistically significant (β = 0.444, p < 0.01) and it is important to note that service-oriented loyalty on service quality appear to be strong. A conceptual and empirical link between OCB and perceived service quality (SQ) of customers is examined. The critical roles of the customer contact employees in ensuring high level of customer services in hotel industry is established.
A Central Role for Ly49 Receptors in NK Cell Memory
Authors: Wight Andrew , Parsons Brendon D. , Rahim Mir Munir A. , Makrigiannis Andrew P.
Published: May 2020

In the past decade, the study of NK cells was transformed by the discovery of three ways these “innate” immune cells display adaptive immune behavior, including the ability to form long-lasting, Ag-specific memories of a wide variety of immunogens. In this review, we examine these types of NK cell memory, highlighting their unique features and underlying similarities. We explore those similarities in depth, focusing on the role that Ly49 receptors play in various types of NK cell memory. From this Ly49 dependency, we will build a model by which we understand the three types of NK cell memory as aspects of what is ultimately the same adaptive immune process, rather than separate facets of NK cell biology. We hope that a defined model for NK cell memory will empower collaboration between researchers of these three fields to further our understanding of this surprising and clinically promising immune response.
The role of echocardiography in SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a compromise among appropriateness, safety and clinical impact
Authors: Pacileo Mario , Giallauria Francesco , Savarese Cristina , Cirillo Teresa , Crescibene Fabio , Di Lorenzo Anna , Ferrillo Mariacarla , Calabrese Maria Grazia , Vigorito Carlo , D'Andrea Antonello
Published: May 2020

SARS-CoV-2 infection, responsible for COVID-19, can determine cardiac events, which require a quick diagnosis and management, and should not be overlooked due to the presence of COVID-19 infection. In some cases, cardiovascular symptoms can also be the first and only manifestation of SARS-CoV-2 infection. In patients with COVID-19, the full cardiovascular disease diagnostic algorithm can be hindered by logistic restrain mainly derived from the difficulty of transporting patients in critical conditions to Radiology or Hemodynamics wards. The echocardiography in SARS-CoV-2 pandemic can help for differential diagnosis of cardiac events, which can be related or unrelated by the infection and can likely impact on short-term prognosis. Indeed, transthoracic echocardiography plays a key role in the screen for CV complications of COVID-19 infection: it must be focused cardiac ultrasound study (FoCUS) performed at bedside. All transthoracic, transesophageal and stress echocardiograms in patients in which test results are unlikely to change the management strategy should be postponed.
Why, when and how to investigate primary ciliary dyskinesia in adult patients with bronchiectasis
Authors: Contarini Martina , Shoemark Amelia , Rademacher Jessica , Finch Simon , Gramegna Andrea , Gaffuri Michele , Roncoroni Luca , Seia Manuela , Ringshausen Felix C. , Welte Tobias , Blasi Francesco , Aliberti Stefano , Chalmers James D.
Published: May 2020

Bronchiectasis represents the final pathway of several infectious, genetic, immunologic or allergic disorders. Accurate and prompt identification of the underlying cause is a key recommendation of several international guidelines, in order to tailor treatment appropriately. Primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD) is a genetic cause of bronchiectasis in which failure of motile cilia leads to poor mucociliary clearance. Due to poor ciliary function in other organs, individuals can suffer from chronic rhinosinusitis, otitis media and infertility. This paper explores the current literature describing why, when and how to investigate PCD in adult patients with bronchiectasis. We describe the main PCD diagnostic tests and compare the two international PCD diagnostic guidelines. The expensive multi-test diagnostic approach requiring a high level of expertise and specialist equipment, make the multifaceted PCD diagnostic pathway complex. Therefore, the risk of late or missed diagnosis is high and has clinical and research implications. Defining the number of patients with bronchiectasis due to PCD is complex. To date, few studies outlining the aetiology of adult patients with bronchiectasis conduct screening tests for PCD, but they do differ in their diagnostic approach. Comparison of these studies reveals an estimated PCD prevalence of 1–13% in adults with bronchiectasis and describe patients as younger than their counterparts with moderate impairment of lung function and higher rates of chronic infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Diagnosing PCD has clinical, socioeconomic and psychological implications, which affect patients’ life, including the possibility to have a specific and multidisciplinary team approach in a PCD referral centre, as well as a genetic and fertility counselling and special legal aspects in some countries. To date no specific treatments for PCD have been approved, standardized diagnostic protocols for PCD and recent diagnostic guidelines will be helpful to accurately define a population on which planning RCT studies to evaluate efficacy, safety and accuracy of PCD specific treatments.