bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different Perspectives on KM 2.0 New Practices and Web 2.0 Tools at Renault-Nissan Alliance Since 2000
Authors: Daidj Nabyla
Published: October 2013

The objective of this chapter was to understand how a “hybrid organization” (two automobile manufacturers Renault and Nissan within a strategic alliance) uses social networking and Web 2.0 tools to collaborate not only inside traditional organizational boundaries and within the alliance structure but also across geographical frontiers. Nissan has gradually lost its historic status as keiretsu as a result of its strategic alliance with the Renault. This alliance has had numerous consequences for the organizational structure of Nissan, even though both companies have maintained their identity by maintaining the two brands internationally. KM practices have evolved since the beginning of the strategic alliance. Two phases can be considered. During the first three years of the alliance, the two car manufacturers relied mainly on their own specific KM practices and processes. The second phase started in 2004 with the development of KM 2.0 and web 2.0 tools. The adoption of these tools by Renault has led to increased collaboration between the two manufacturers. The third period (2011-2013) is characterised by the development of collaborative tools and practices during which the Renault-Nissan alliance may enter a new phase of maturity.
CSF Approach for IT Strategic Planning
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: October 2013

Although the purpose of strategic planning is straightforward - to outline where an organization wants to go and how it’s going to get there - its nature is complex and dynamic. Two techniques, the critical success factor (CSF) method and future scenario planning, can augment strategic planning efforts by illuminating an organization’s present situation and potential future. This paper explores the value of enhancing typical strategic planning techniques with the CSF method and presents an integrated framework for helping organizations understand the broad range of interrelated elements that influence strategy development for Information Technology (IT). Critical success factors are defined as the handful of key areas where an organization must perform well on a consistent basis to achieve its mission. CSFs can be derived through a document review, analysis of the goals, objectives of key management personnel and interviews with individuals about their specific domain and the barriers they encounter in achieving their goals and objectives. The paper synthesizes documented theory and research in strategic planning and CSFs and provides insights and lessons regarding the value and limitations of the integrated strategic planning framework in the context of IT. Through a method of in-depth literature review and contextual analysis, the paper incorporates suggestions for future work which include: exploring the use of IT in unit-level planning and organizational strategic planning, creating an integrated strategic planning process and connecting CSFs directly to one another in the monitoring stages to support the integrated framework, for an holistic strategic planning process.
Critical Risk Path Method
Authors: Iromuanya Chi , Hargiss Kathleen M. , Howard Caroline
Published: October 2013

Existing approaches to risk management in construction procurement primarily dwell on strategies designed for commonly identifiable risk factors in typical project environments. Commonly identifiable risk factors would include too early or late material delivery - a condition typically ameliorated by implementing a Just In Time (JIT) plan; inferior construction materials typically mitigated by employing trusted vendors; or ineffective contractors primarily avoided by the use of experienced contractors. The purpose of this paper is to present a coherent model for procurement risk management for construction and infrastructure development projects within the context of dynamic project environments - complex, or chaotic. For the purpose of this study, a critical risk path activity is one in which a delay of activity completion not only leads to project delay, but does so in a manner that may be fatal to project or at best, far greater than the actual delay. The study incorporates observations and theory with practical application for improving initiatives by emergency infrastructure development response organizations such as FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) and USACE (US Army Corps of Engineers) in the United States, the NEMA (National Emergency Management Agency) in Nigeria, or ANDMA (Afghanistan National Disaster Management Authority) etc. This study presents risk response plans aimed at improving the potential occurrence of positive risk aspects while reducing, or eliminating the same for negative risk occurrences. This study explored material, equipment, and skilled labor procurement strategies related to project risk management from the perspectives of scheduling, cost, and quality - three factors often referred to as the triple project constraints. It identified gaps within specific national and multinational organizations’ approaches, and provided detailed recommendations for process improvements from the procurement management perspective to ensure the potential for successful project outcomes in unstable project conditions.
On the Collapse of Offshore Pipelines under External Pressure and Axial Force
Authors: Gan Neng , Xue Jiang Hong
Published: October 2013

The elastic collapse of long cylinders under combined external pressure and axial force was investigated using analytical approach. Long cylindrical pipelines laid on the seabed are subjected to external pressure, initial defect will cause the local collapse of the pipelines. Due to the change of subsea environments and construction conditions, circular pipelines are subjected not only to the hydrostatic pressure, but also to forces of other forms, such as axial tension or compression, so on and so forth. This paper studies the local collapse and the morphological characteristics of a circular pipelines subjected to hydrostatic pressure and axial force. Governing equations based on Karman-Donnell`s shell theory are derived and are solved using Ritz method.
Analysis and Calculation of Concentric Coil Area
Authors: Du Lin , Shi Geng Chen , Zhao Jing Jing
Published: October 2013

In disc magneto electric generator, the output voltage is proportional to the coil surrounding area. Establish the sectorial coil model, trapezoidal coil model and rectangular coil model and build simplified calculation formulaused for calculation of coil surrounding area. The maximum error between simplified and the precisecalculation formula is 6% that can meet the needs of engineering design. It can be used to guide structural design and optimization of this type of generator.
Research on the Wing Kinematics and Bionic Model of Cicada
Authors: Zhang Xi Jin , Huang Qiang Qiang , Luo Xi , Zhao Yong , Cheng Zhen Jin , Wang Yan
Published: October 2013

Insect-like flapping-wing aircraft is a research focus in the study of Micro Aerial Vehicle. In the paper, a cicada is chosen as the object, and based on the analysis of its wing, its kinematics and three-dimensional model are researched. In the study of kinematics, two softwares (Movias-pro and Photoshop) are applied, and the laws of flap and torsion movements are obtained. In the study of three-dimensional mode, the wing is scanned by the use of flat plane scanning method, and the resulting picture is vectorized. Based on the wing datum, the three-dimensional model of wing is created by the use of Pro/E. The result from the paper lays foundation for the development of cicada-like flapping-wing aircraft.
Experimental Study Based on the Widening Melting Roads Cladding Forming of the Hollow Laser
Authors: Yu Liang Liang , Shi Shi Hong , Fu Ge Yan , Tian Mei Ling
Published: October 2013

Our research group has invented a kind of new technology called coaxial inside-beam powder feeding. By series of experiments, this paper analyzed and summarized the process parameters’ influence on the cladding layers’ feature and quanlity, which contain the laser power P, the powder feeding speed Vf, the scanning speed Vs and the defocusing distance L. Some cladding experiments also were made to aquire the cladding roads with variable width. The experimental results indicate that when P, Vf and D×Vs are fixed, roads with stable height and uniformly changing width are acquired by changing Vs and L at the same time.
Effect of Surface Topography on Contact Property of the End Face for Mechanical Seal
Authors: Fang Gui Fang , Zhang Peng Gao , Wei Long
Published: October 2013

In order to understand the contact property of the end face for mechanical seal, simulation models of the elastic contact area ratio, the elastic-plastic contact area ration and the plastic contact area ratio of the end face are established using fractal parameters to characterize the surface topography. The effects of surface topography fractal parameters of B104a-70 mechanical seal on contact properties of the end faces are analyzed by theoretical simulation. The results show that the elastic contact area ratio increases rapidly at first and then decreases gradually, the elastic-plastic contact area ration decreases rapidly at first and then changes slightly, and the plastic contact area ratio changes slightly at first and then increases gradually with the increases of fractal dimension; the elastic contact area ratio decreases, and both the elastic-plastic contact area ratio and the plastic contact area ratio increase with the increases of the characteristic length scale; the proportion of the elastic contact area is larger, and the proportions of the elastic-plastic contact area and the plastic contact area are smaller when the end face is smooth; there exist an optimal value of fractal dimension between the faces of mechanical seal to make the elastic contact area ratio biggest, and the wear smallest. For B104a-70 mechanical seal, the optimal fractal dimension of the end face of the soft ring is about 1.63.
Model Construction and Experiment Study of the Fuel Nucleus Boiling Process on Hot Surface
Authors: Liu Bo Yun , Qiu Hai Jian , Qiu Jin Shui , Yi Xiang Lie , Wang Kang Bo
Published: October 2013

As for the nucleus boiling pattern of the fuel on hot surface, the nucleus boiling mechanism, evaporation process and gas-liquid balance condition have been analyzed. Based on the model of Euler multiphase flow, mathematics model of the nucleus boiling process has been constituted. Furthermore, the nucleus boiling process has been simulated by FLUENT. And then, the study provides the theoretic foundation for the forecast of the process of fuel evaporation on hot surface through the comparative analysis between the theoretic calculation conclusion and the experiment.
Tribological Behavior of Ion Implanted AISI 440C Stainless Steel under Oil Lubricated Condition
Authors: Liu Feng Bin , Li Hui Ping , Cui Yan , Di Jie Jian , Qu Min , Sun Qi Guo
Published: October 2013

The tribological behaviors of nitrogen and titanium ion implanted AISI 440C stainless steel were studied by using an oscillating ball-on-disk tribometer under oil lubricated condition. The results showed that the ion implantations would significantly decrease the friction coefficient of the samples. To interpret the effect mechanism of the ion implantation on tribological performance, the surface morphology and oil wettability of the ion implanted samples were investigated by using a three-dimensional white interferometer and a contact angle analyzer, respectively. In addition, the surface structures and components of the samples were analyzed by using XRD and XPS techniques. The results indicated that the low friction coefficients of the ion implanted samples can be attributed to the new phases formed on the sample surfaces. For nitrogen ion implanted sample, the metal nitrides, supersaturated interstitial N and some C-O-N compounds appear on the sample surface. For titanium ion implanted sample, apart from TiO2and TiC phases form at the AISI 440C steel surface. Those components increase the surface energy of the AISI 440C steel and are in favor of the formation of the thin oil film.
The Phase Transformations during Fluidized-Bed Combustion of Biomass
Authors: Teng Hai Peng , Yang Bin , Liang Bin
Published: October 2013

FactSage6.1 was used to study the phase transformation at high temperature when biomass combustion in a fluidized bed reactor. The results show that eutectic was formed during the reaction process, the eutectics are formed mainly by the reaction between the silica in bed particles and the alkali species in biomass ash. The solid phase transformed to melt layer on the surface of sands particle mainly contains potassium, some calcium and magnesium, and also a few phosphorus and chlorine are found in the melt layer. The result utilizing FactSage equilibrium modeling shown that the distribution ratio of potassium in the gas phase increased with the increase of temperature, moreover, the melt of bed material surface increased when defluidized occurred.
The Dynamic Analysis of the Twin-Lift Lattice Crane Truss
Authors: Lu Lu Lu , Chiu Yi Jui , Yang Chia Hao , Chang Luh Maan
Published: October 2013

This paper aims to explore the dynamic behavior of the twin-lift lattice crane truss. The designs used ANSYS for finite element analysis. The situations of vibration and the resonance behavior of localization were dynamically analyzed. The results of this research could provide the engineers with useful information in understanding the dynamic vibration behavior of the crane system.
Fractal Study for Surface Cracks of Rubber Concrete Beam on Concentrated Load
Authors: Sun Hong Quan , Zhou Wen Hui
Published: October 2013

The fractal characteristics of the surface cracks and the damage evolution process of rubber concrete beams under concentrated load are studied. The experimental conclusions show that there exists a quantitative relationship between the fractal dimension and the mechanical properties. The fractal dimension of surface-crack of the rubber concrete beams is able to act as a damage feature index to reflect the damage degree of them effectively. In investigating the crack evolving process of the rubber concrete beams, fractal geometry provides a new technique for the structural health monitoring and the safety evaluation.
Design and Simulate of Golf Wood Club
Authors: Feng Zhang Mei , Chiu Yi Jui , Chen Han Hui
Published: October 2013

This paper aims to design a golf wood club to provide the golf players with very useful information. First, the new golf wood club is designed, including the golf head and shaft. Second, this study bases on the design rules of golf for wood material, choose the appropriate design parameters. This study obtains the results as follows. First, Pinaceae is the best material for golf head. Second, Carbon fiber is the best material for golf club.
Design of Monitoring System with Advanced Applications for Wind Farms
Authors: Chen Ran , Zhang Xiang Wen , Yao Hong Chun , Qiu Teng Fei , Liang Shuo
Published: October 2013

This paper introduces a monitoring system based on C/S mode which includes both basic SCADA functions and advanced analysis and control functions. Basic functions collect, process and store data from various devices; advanced functions provide data analysis, statistics, automatic control and operation management tools. The system is highly modularized that advanced functions can be integrated to the system easily. The system is running well in our test environment and will be implemented in a demonstration project this year.
Model of Martian Crustal Magnetic Field Based on Equivalent Currents
Authors: Tong Dong Sheng
Published: October 2013

The UV spectrograph Spectroscopy for the Investigation of Characteristics of the atmosphere of Mars (SPICAM) on board Mars Express made the first observation of auroral-type emission in the cusp region of strong crustal magnetic field on Mars and found that the arc of Martian aurora is very narrow in width, which obviously differs from that of other planets. Based on the observation, we put forward a model of crustal magnetic field on Martian aurora zone through the morphology of Martian aurora. In the model, equivalent currents are proposed, the topology and magnitude of magnetic field generated by these equivalent currents is consistent with that of crustal magnetic field on Martian aurora zone. The morphology of Martian aurora generated through the model matches well with the observations by the Mars Express orbiter.
Wireless Remote Data Acquisition and Network Transmission for Micro-Seismic Signals
Authors: Bian Huan Huan , Wang Yu Duo , Cao Yun An , Hao Wang
Published: October 2013

The paper introduces the system design for wireless data acquisition and remote transmission scheme of micro-seismic signals. Zigbee wireless network communication technique is used for wireless data collection of seismic wave detection sensor, Meanwhile GPRS wireless packet switching technique is used to complete remote data transmission. The solution is the combination application of Zigbee and GPRS to analyze and monitor micro-seismic signal. The experiment of the system demonstrates that the solution is stable, reliable, efficient and practical when used in the micro-seismic signals remote transmission.
Peudo Static Test Research for Seismic Shear Keys of Bridge
Authors: Zheng Wan Shan , Tang Guang Wu
Published: October 2013

To investigate seismic performance of lateral bridge shear keys with different stirrup types, depths and impact degrees, tests in low frequency cyclic load have been done for 5 lateral shear keys. The results show that unbind stirrup shear key adopted is obviously weaker than bind one in terms of ductility ability; when bind one is adopted, it is mainly characterized by bending shear failure mode, its bearing capacity increases with depth. Finally a computational formula for seismic capacity of shear keys is presented according to its failure mechanism.
Dynamics Analysis of Debris in the Thin Cavity
Authors: Lu Zhi Yong , Liu Chang Wei , Fu Shan Shan
Published: October 2013

The oil condition monitor asks for wear derbies moving into the oil thin cavity stably which is on wear derbies image collecting apparatus, and reduces some phenomena of the wear derbies, such as roll, deposition and self-lock characterization, in order to enhance the quality of wear derbies image. This paper has first studied about the moving video image of the wear particles in an oil thin cavity. A qualitative research on the movement of the wear derbies, such as roll, deposition and self-lock characterization, has been investigated. Then dynamics of wear derbies is analyzed .The paper presents apparatus to avoid the overlap and jam of wear debris on the basic of the result of dynamics analysis. The oil thin cavity is considered to be laid vertically during the experiment.
Attitude Control of Air Spring Isolation System
Authors: Shi Liang , Zhao Ying Long , Bo Wen Jun
Published: October 2013

Air spring has been increasingly applied in marine raft isolation system to acquire excellent vibration isolation effect. However, it is a key technical difficulty to keep attitude balance for the raft. The response characteristics of raft attitude have been analyzed in detail. The raft attitude controllability condition for air spring leakage fault is discussed. The analyzed conclusion lays a foundation for ascertaining control parameters and designing fault tolerant control strategy.
Structural Design and System Integration of 3D Camera Pan-and-Tilt
Authors: Bao Nan Hai , Xu Liang , Dong Yue , Pan Yue , Yang Qi , Wang Chun Zhi , Zhao Yu , Cai Fang Wei
Published: October 2013

The movie Avatar has risen of the tide of 3D all over the world, which also drives the development of 3D technology. With the increase of the number of 3D cinemas and 3D television channels, provide more platform for the development of 3D technology. With the development of 3D technology and the 3D industry chain gradually forming, 3D will become the mainstream of film and television. In this paper, according to the 3D display principle and the needs of filming, design and manufacture, can carry large camera, integrated precision CNC technology, intelligent control technology and the ultrasonic ranging, high-precision adjustment of two camera displacement and angle can achieve, support a variety of camera models, 3D camera pan-and-tilt for horizontal.
Improvement of Dynamic Models of Photovoltaic Arrays
Authors: Quan Ji Nan , Zhou Guang Yu , Chen Chun Yan
Published: October 2013

The nonlinear characteristic of photovoltaic cell following changes of irradiation and ambient temperature must be solved to research solar energy deeply and to utilize it high-efficiently. For building simple and practical dynamic simulation model and seeking after control strategy for raising out-power, a modified dynamic model of photovoltaic array is developed based on the physical model of photovoltaic cell, in which the voltage and current coefficients about ambient temperature and irradiation are introduced. By the model with stronger applicability and generality, the photovoltaic array I-V characteristic can be simulated arbitrarily with changes of irradiationambient temperaturephotovoltaic module parameter and its combination. The validity of the model is verified by all of the simulation results under Matlab/Simulink.
Embedding Global Optimization and Kernelization into Fuzzy C-Means Clustering for Consonant/Vowel Segmentation
Authors: Zang Xian , Chong Kil To
Published: October 2013

This paper proposes a novel clustering algorithm named global kernel fuzzy-c means (GK-FCM) to segment the speech into small non-overlapping blocks for consonant/vowel segmentation. This algorithm is realized by embedding global optimization and kernelization into the classical fuzzy c-means clustering algorithm. It proceeds in an incremental way attempting to optimally add new cluster center at each stage through the kernel-based fuzzy c-means. By solving all the intermediate problems, the final near-optimal solution is determined in a deterministic way. This algorithm overcomes the well-known shortcomings of fuzzy c-means and improves the clustering accuracy. Simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method in consonant/vowel segmentation.
Effects of Freezing-Thawing Cycle of Compressibility of Cement Soil
Authors: Chen Si Li , Shi Jian Jun , Yu Tao , Huang Jie , Dong Kai He
Published: October 2013

Based on the safety and durability in the cement soil engineering about the pits anti-seepage, embankment impermeable walls and subgrade strengthening in the frozen regions and the retaining walls in foundation pits, the experiments on the compressibility about the cement soil under freezing-thawing cycle, infiltrated and other environmental-action conditions have been carried out and the influential laws of environmental actions on the compression parameter of cement soil have been obtained. The results show that the various environmental actions may have influences on compressibility of cement soil at different levels, and the environmental effects on the compressibility of cement soil in the engineering applications and designs, such as impermeable walls or in the frozen regions, should be taken into account, and the void ratio and the coefficient of compressibility will increase with the increase of freezing-thawing cycle times and infiltration time but the compression modulus will decrease with the increase of freezing-thawing cycle times and infiltration time so that the curve regression equation about the void ratio, the coefficient of compressibility and compression modulus varying with the freezing-thawing cycle times and the infiltration time has been established. The results are significant and valuable to the safety and the durability of cement soil engineering.
Risk Grading of Water Pollution Event with Applying Pollutant Transportation Simulation
Authors: Zhang Chun Xue , Wang Li Lin , Wang Chao , Yang Shu Yi , You Xue Yi
Published: October 2013

The traffic emergent incidents bring great potential dangers to the water quality of open channel or river along highroads. In this paper, the discrimination model of risk grade was established to predict the degree of traffic emergent incidents with the transportation of pollutants in open channel. The numerical results show that the proposed method provides a technical support to predict and react on the environmental risks.
Study on Boundary Conditions of the Natural Vibrations for Self-Anchored Cable-Stayed Suspension Bridges
Authors: Huang Hai Xin , Zhang Ying , Cheng Shou Shan , Qie Yan Hui
Published: October 2013

The study of the natural vibrations is the basis of risk evaluation. Based on numerical simulation technology, some influence factors such as different restriction means including the setup of vertical support or fixed connection between pylon and girder, and elastic constraint along longitude of girder, as well as whether setting the auxiliary piers, the location and the number of the auxiliary pier and the changes of the dead load are chosen in order to study in depth the effects on the first-order longitudinal frequency, first-order vertical-bending frequency, first-order transverse-bending frequency and the first-order torsional frequency of self-anchored cable-stayed suspension bridges. The results obtained here have an important guiding significance to optimize structure design and defend risk.
Finite Element Analysis of Hybrid Fiber Reinforced HPC Deep Beams under Shear Load
Authors: Liu Sheng Bing , Xu Li Hua
Published: October 2013

18 different groups of hybrid fiber (steel fiber and polypropylene fiber) reinforced HPC deep beams and 2 groups of HPC deep beams without fiber were made. The shear tests under the static load and the numerical simulation by ABAQUS were conducted. Good agreement are found between test results and simulation results.The results of finite element analysis indicate that with the increment of reinforcement ratio, the shear capacity of hybrid fiber reinforced HPC deep beams increases, but quite limited. The variation of shear capacity of hybrid fiber reinforced HPC deep beams is not obvious as the shear-span ratio changes (when ) . The increment of span-depth ratio can improve the shear capacity of hybrid fiber reinforced HPC deep beams, but only with small amplitude. All these regularities are similar to those of ordinary reinforced concrete deep beams.
A case of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease: diagnostic dilemmas of a rapidly fatal disease
Authors: Baig Mirza M. , Phillips Martin
Published: October 2013

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease (CJD) is a rapidly progressive and ultimately fatal disorder of the central nervous system. It occurs worldwide with an incidence of 0.5-1 new case per million population per year. No specific treatment is available and management is limited to supportive care. Autopsy or biopsy provides a definitive diagnosis. Because of the transmissible nature of the disease and hesitancy of patients/family members to give consent for biopsy, numerous challenges in confirming the clinical diagnosis are faced by healthcare professionals. We report a case of 66-year-old male who was hospitalized due to hip fracture following a fall. Acute mental status changes followed the surgical fixation of hip fracture which triggered neurologic work up. This finally revealed suspicion and confirmation of CJD. Patient had progressive cognitive decline with akinetic mutism during further hospital stay and was later discharged home with hospice. Shorter thereafter he died at home. This case demonstrates the importance of keeping an open mind towards possibility of CJD when faced with esoteric neurologic presentations. Also this case provides insight into challenges in quarantine and sterilization of surgical instruments when these patients go through major surgeries.
First case report of infection by Mycobacterium wolinskyi after mammoplasty in Brazil
Authors: Lima Andrea Santos , Neves Maria Madileuza Carneiro , Gomes Karen Machado , Guarines Klarissa Miranda , Luna Carlos Feitosa , Duarte Rafael Silva , Montenegro Lílian Maria Lapa , Schindler Haiana Charifker
Published: October 2013

Mycobacterium wolinskyi is a rapidly growing mycobacterium, first described in 1999 as a member of the group Mycobacterium smegmatis (Mycobacterium smegmatis, Mycobacterium wolinskyi and Mycobacterium goodii). Only 19 case reports all over the world have been described on literature, none of them in Brazil. On this report, it is described one case of infection after a mammoplasty procedure performed in a private health service in the county of Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, in 2009. The mycobacteria specie was identified using biochemical tests and sequencing the specific gene rpoB. To treat the infection by Mycobacterium wolinskyi it was necessary to combine antibiotics for a long period of time associated with surgical procedures of the breast abscesses.
A case of emphysematous cystitis diagnosed by exploratory laparotomy
Authors: Takano Keisuke , Fukushima Hidetada , Kawai Yasuyuki , Urisono Yasuyuki , Hata Michiaki , Nishio Kenji , Okuchi Kazuo
Published: October 2013

Emphysematous cystitis is a rare form of infection. Well known symptoms are: dysuria, urinary frequency and lower abdominal pain. We experienced a case of emphysematous cystitis presented with atypical peritoneal sign and computed tomography findings of massive intra-peritoneal fluid collection and abnormal gas appearance in pelvic space. Due to its presentation as acute abdomen, patient underwent exploratory laparotomy and the diagnosis of emphysematous cystitis was established. As far as we know, our case is the first report of emphysematous cystitis with intra-peritoneal fluid collection.
Leadership by fragmented destruction after a merger: an example from a facility of acute psychiatry
Authors: Berg John E. , Grimeland Jorid
Published: October 2013

Hospitals are labor intensive facilities based on highly skilled employees. A merger of hospitals is an effort to increase and rationalize this production. Decisions behind a merger are made at the top leadership level. How this might be done is demonstrated by examples from a 36 bed acute psychiatric facility. The aim of the study was to calculate the hidden costs of fragmented destruction of parts of a total hospital supply to patients after a merger. Fragmented destruction is the deliberate stopping of activities deemed not part of the core activities of the hospital without due consideration of the impact on core activities. The proposed changes to operational expenses at a single acute psychiatric hospital were materials for the study. The changes included activities as a reduction in local laboratory service, cleaning services, closure of physiotherapy unit, closing of cultural activities and reduced productivity. The selected activities are calculated as giving an imputed gain of € 630,000 as indicated by the leadership. The not calculated costs of reducing or removing the selected activities are estimated at € 1,955,640. The cost of staff disappointment after a merger is difficult to assess, but is probably higher than assumed in the present calculations. Imputed cost containment is not attained. The calculations indicate that implemented changes may increase cost, contrary to the belief of the leadership at both the hospital level and further up in the hospital trust. Arguments in favor of a merger have to be scrutinized thoroughly for optimistic neglect of uncalculated costs of mergers. Future hospital mergers and selected fragmentation of productive tasks at ward or hospital levels should include calculations of unavoidable costs as shown in the present paper.
3D geological observation data base of the Archean Blake River Group, Horne Mine and Central Camp, Rouyn-Noranda, Québec
Authors: de Kemp E A , Martin L , Girard E , Lauzière K , Goutier J , Monecke T , Ross P
-S , Dion C , Bellefleur G , Grunsky E C , Taylor B , McNicoll V , Mercier-Langevin P , Dubé B
Published: October 2013

A 3D geospatial observational database has been compiled for the mineral prospective Archean (2704 -2695 Ma) Blake River Group, Noranda mining camp in Québec. It includes harmonized surface and subsurface geoscience data derived from public (Ministère
des Ressources naturelles E-Sigeom and Geological Survey of Canada) and private (Xstrata, Falco-Pacific) databases. Included are a variety of data sets representing regional to mine scale 3D observations from drill core, outcrop, and mine workings with lithostratigraphic, structural, geochemical and
geochronologic information. Geophysical gravity and magnetic survey compilations and seismic profiles across prospective regions of the Central Camp have been integrated into the 3D data store to support better 3D interpretation. A common lithostratigraphic classification and 3D structural data base
provides value added information to support better trend analysis, 3D mapping and regional interpretation. The aim of this 3D data release is to provide modelling and mineral exploration constraints for enhancing the predictive capacity for targeting deeper hidden mineral resources in the
Rouyn-Noranda region. Some preliminary 3D model examples are provided.
Tinboektoe toe: Spatial explorations
Authors: Greyling S.F.
Published: October 2013

In order to develop and advance research in the creative disciplines in a university context, it is important to create a space in which the expectations in the formal research environment and the unique features of the creative disciplines are in balance. To this end it is necessary to investigate more closely the challenges and possibilities of practice-based research approaches, and to understand their internal functioning better. The experimental and unique nature of artists’ books and the variety of activities that form part of the creative process may bring about an increased awareness of the creative process, and in that way it may also create space conducive for reflection. In this article the development of an artist’s book, Tinboektoe toe, being discussed, from the perspective of the reflective practitioner. This book, consisting of postcards, invited readers to literally and figuratively become part of the space of the book, to participate in its writing and to make stories, in order to dismantle and undermine the traditional boundaries of the narrative world and the book. Although reader participation in the construct of meaning underpins all writing, it became a deliberate and centrifugal force in this project, influencing the research themes and possibilities. This specific and nuanced focus is probably only feasible if a creative project and research issues are allowed to develop jointly organically. The project can be regarded as a case where artistic practice is the subject, method, content and outcome of research. Practice-based research must offer room for a journey of exploration and discovery.
Predictors of Disease Severity in Patients Admitted to a Cholera Treatment Center in Urban Haiti
Authors: Valcin Claude-Lyne , Severe Karine , Riche Claudia T. , Anglade Benedict S. , Moise Colette Guiteau , Woodworth Michael , Charles Macarthur , Li Zhongze , Joseph Patrice , Pape Jean W. , Wright Peter F.
Published: October 2013

Cholera, previously unrecognized in Haiti, spread through the country in the fall of 2010. An analysis was performed to understand the epidemiological characteristics, clinical management, and risk factors for disease severity in a population seen at the GHESKIO Cholera Treatment Center in Port-au-Prince. A comprehensive review of the medical records of patients admitted during the period of October 28, 2010–July 10, 2011 was conducted. Disease severity on admission was directly correlated with older age, more prolonged length of stay, and presentation during the two epidemic waves seen in the observation period. Although there was a high seroprevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), severity of cholera was not greater with HIV infection. This study documents the correlation of cholera waves with rainfall and its reduction in settings with improved sanitary conditions and potable water when newly introduced cholera affects all ages equally so that interventions must be directed throughout the population.
Use of Oral Cholera Vaccine in Haiti: A Rural Demonstration Project
Authors: Ivers Louise C. , Teng Jessica E. , Lascher Jonathan , Raymond Max , Weigel Jonathan , Victor Nadia , Jerome J. Gregory , Hilaire Isabelle J. , Almazor Charles P. , Ternier Ralph , Cadet Jean , Francois Jeannot , Guillaume Florence D. , Farmer Paul E.
Published: October 2013

A cholera epidemic has claimed the lives of more than 8,000 Haitians and sickened 650,000 since the outbreak began in October 2010. Early intervention in the epidemic focused on case-finding, treatment, and water and sanitation interventions for prevention of transmission. Use of oral cholera vaccine (OCV) as part of a complementary set of control activities was considered but initially rejected by policymakers. In December 2011, the Minister of Health of Haiti called for a demonstration of the acceptability and feasibility of the use of OCV in urban and rural Haiti. This paper describes the collaborative activity that offered OCV to one region of the Artibonite Department of rural Haiti in addition to other ongoing treatment and control measures. Despite logistics and cold chain challenges, 45,417 persons were successfully vaccinated with OCV in the region, and 90.8% of these persons completed their second dose.
Development of a Cholera Vaccination Policy on the Island of Hispaniola, 2010–2013
Authors: Vicari Andrea S. , Ruiz-Matus Cuauhtémoc , de Quadros Ciro , Andrus Jon K.
Published: October 2013

Deployment of oral cholera vaccine (OCV) on the Island of Hispaniola has been considered since the emergence of the disease in October of 2010. At that time, emergency response focused on the time-tested measures of treatment to prevent deaths and sanitation to diminish transmission. Use of the limited amount of vaccine available in the global market was recommended for demonstration activities, which were carried out in 2012. As transmission continues, vaccination was recommended in Haiti as one component of a comprehensive initiative supported by an international coalition to eliminate cholera on the Island of Hispaniola. Leveraging its delivery to strengthen other cholera prevention measures and immunization services, a phased OCV introduction is pursued in accordance with global vaccine supply. Not mutually exclusive or sequential deployment options include routine immunization for children over the age of 1 year and campaigns in vulnerable metropolitan areas or rural areas with limited access to health services.
Access to Safe Water in Rural Artibonite, Haiti 16 Months after the Onset of the Cholera Epidemic
Authors: Patrick Molly , Berendes David , Murphy Jennifer , Bertrand Fabienne , Husain Farah , Handzel Thomas
Published: October 2013

Haiti has the lowest improved water and sanitation coverage in the Western Hemisphere and is suffering from the largest cholera epidemic on record. In May of 2012, an assessment was conducted in rural areas of the Artibonite Department to describe the type and quality of water sources and determine knowledge, access, and use of household water treatment products to inform future programs. It was conducted after emergency response was scaled back but before longer-term water, sanitation, and hygiene activities were initiated. The household survey and source water quality analysis documented low access to safe water, with only 42.3% of households using an improved drinking water source. One-half (50.9%) of the improved water sources tested positive for Escherichia coli. Of households with water to test, 12.7% had positive chlorine residual. The assessment reinforces the identified need for major investments in safe water and sanitation infrastructure and the importance of household water treatment to improve access to safe water in the near term.
Profit Leak? Pre‐Release File Sharing and the Music Industry
Authors: Hammond Robert G.
Published: October 2013

Using data from an exclusive file‐sharing Web site that allows users to share music files using the BitTorrent protocol, I exploit exogenous variation in the availability of sound recordings in file‐sharing networks to isolate the causal effect of file sharing of an album on its sales. Using within‐album variation in illegal downloads and sales, I find that the effect is essentially zero: The elasticity of sales with respect to illegal downloads is one‐tenth of one percentage point. However, the finding that file sharing is not harmful to individual artists is not inconsistent with the well‐documented fact that file sharing is harmful to the music industry (the fallacy of composition). More important, I find that file sharing benefits more established and popular artists who are signed to major labels, which is consistent with recent industry trends.
First Steps: Exploring Use of a Prospective, Office-Based Registry as the Foundation for Quality Improvement in Cardiology Training
Authors: Frederick Melissa A. , Singh Tejwant , Salami Sule , Oetgen William J. , Rosman Howard S.
Published: October 2013

Background

Teaching practice-based learning and improvement and systems-based practice are challenging. Cardiology fellows at St John Hospital & Medical Center participate in a national registry of outpatient cardiology care.

Objective

We assessed the use of the registry, hypothesizing that it could serve as an effective foundation for studying ambulatory care, identifying gaps in care, and planning interventions to advance competence in practice-based learning and improvement and systems-based practice.

Methods

Starting in 2009, trainees prospectively entered data for ambulatory cardiac patients into the PINNACLE Registry database where compliance with 28 performance measures was calculated and reported quarterly. Fellows met with the program director individually and in groups to identify performance gaps and to develop and implement plans for quality improvement. Cardiology fellows were surveyed annually to assess this process.

Results

Through March 2012, the fellows had completed 2400 patient visits. Participation was feasible because it was cost neutral, with data form completion averaging 5 minutes. It was acceptable, with most fellows describing positive effects on practice-based learning and improvement without significant detriment to work flow. Performance achievement for drug therapies ranged from 69% (77 of 111) of the patients with atrial fibrillation receiving anticoagulation to 99% (486 of 489) of patients with coronary disease receiving lipid-lowering therapy. Gaps in system performance included low levels for diabetes screening (5%; 20 of 422) and lipid monitoring (10%; 58 of 573). Initial quality improvement projects addressed practice gaps with straightforward solutions. Improving system performance was more challenging.

Conclusions

Using a registry in cardiology trainees' outpatient practice is feasible, acceptable, and valuable. It allows for planning and studying the effects of quality improvement projects.
Future Challenges in Medical Education in the Indian Subcontinent
Authors: Nandan Deoki , Bora Rishabh , Priyadarshini Pallavi , Malhotra Bora Neharika
Published: October 2013

India and the Indian subcontinent is the most populated geographical area of the world (1.2 billion in India). Also medical needs of this subcontinent are the biggest in form of trained manpower and resources.

Human resources for health are all individuals engaged in promotion and protection or improvement of health (WHO 2007).

Indian subcontinent specially Indian has the largest number of medical colleges (350 in Indian) and we treat a significant number of medical tourism (second after Thailand), this is a reflection of the high level of medical expertize we posses, yet the paradox is that majority of our citizens have limited access to quality health care.

Why such a situation has arisen in India, we try to analyze by relooking at the clinical settings where doctors avail training.

This review aims to look at the challenges of medical education and role of professional organizations like FOGSI, ICOG, ICMU, IFUMB and IMA in training and educating the practising gynecologists in the field of Obs/Gyn ultrasound.

How to cite this article

Malhotra N, Priyadarshini P, Malhotra J, Bora NM, Bora R, Malhotra K, Nandan D. Future Challenges in Medical Education in the Indian Subcontinent. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013;7(3):332-337.
The global impact of the transport sectors on atmospheric aerosol: simulations for year 2000 emissions
Authors: Righi M. , Hendricks J. , Sausen R.
Published: October 2013

Abstract. We use the EMAC (ECHAM/MESSy Atmospheric Chemistry) global model with the aerosol module MADE (Modal Aerosol Dynamics model for Europe, adapted for global applications) to quantify the impact of transport emissions (land transport, shipping and aviation) on the global aerosol. We consider a present-day (2000) scenario according to the CMIP5 (Climate Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5) emission data set developed in support of the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) Fifth Assessment Report. The model takes into account particle mass and number emissions: The latter are derived from mass emissions under different assumptions on the size distribution of particles emitted by the three transport sectors. Additional sensitivity experiments are performed to quantify the effects of the uncertainties behind such assumptions. The model simulations show that the impact of the transport sectors closely matches the emission patterns. Land transport is the most important source of black carbon (BC) pollution in the USA, Europe and the Arabian Peninsula, contributing up to 60–70% of the total surface-level BC concentration in these regions. Shipping contributes about 40–60% of the total aerosol sulfate surface-level concentration along the most-traveled routes of the northern Atlantic and northern Pacific oceans, with a significant impact (~ 10–20%) along the coastlines. Aviation mostly affects aerosol number, contributing about 30–40% of the particle number concentration in the northern midlatitudes' upper troposphere (7–12 km), although significant effects are also simulated at the ground, due to the emissions from landing and take-off cycles. The transport-induced perturbations to the particle number concentrations are very sensitive to the assumptions on the size distribution of emitted particles, with the largest uncertainties (about one order of magnitude) obtained for the land transport sector. The simulated climate impacts, due to aerosol direct and indirect effects, are strongest for the shipping sector, in the range of −222.0 to −153.3 mW m−2, as a consequence of the large impact of sulfate aerosol on low marine clouds and their optical properties.