bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aviation Fuel Exposure Resulting in Otitis Externa with Vertigo
Authors: Long Robert J. , Charles Reese A.
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND: Otitis externa secondary to irritant or chemical exposure is well documented; however, specifically secondary to jet fuel exposure and its associated toxicology is not. Over 2 million military and civilian personnel per year are occupationally exposed to aviation
fuels.CASE REPORT: An aircraft maintainer presented with noninfectious acute otitis externa secondary to external ear canal exposure to JP-5 jet fuel. Proper exposure guidelines were followed, but it was not realized that the external ear canal was involved. The first symptoms to
emerge were vertigo, dizziness, and disequilibrium; however, on physical exam it appeared that there was no middle ear involvement.DISCUSSION: Otitis externa normally does not present with vestibular symptoms as the pathology affects the external ear canal dermal tissue. Upon review
of JP-5’s toxicology profile, dermal absorption is a route of entry and can cause general neurological symptoms, including loss of coordination. This case highlights potential deficiencies in the standardized safety data sheets that are used after exposure. Without mention of possible
auricular exposure one may focus on the logical protection of the eyes, mouth, and visible skin. This is concerning due to potential delayed exposure symptoms, dermal absorption, high level of dermal destruction, and the close proximity to the sensory system. The goal of this case report is
to improve the knowledge of providers caring for personnel who may be exposed and to suggest possible revisions to the Safety Data Sheets for jet fuel.Long RJ, Charles RA. Aviation fuel exposure resulting in otitis externa with vertigo. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(7):661–663.
Onze débats télévisés pour une campagne présidentielle
Authors: Gerstlé Jacques
Published: June 2018

Depuis 1974 le débat télévisé de l'entre-deux-tours est un point de passage obligé pour les candidats à la présidentielle en France. En 2017, à ce débat traditionnel sont venus s'ajouter dix autres: huit pour les primaires, étendues pour la première fois par la droite (trois débats avant le premier tour et un débat avant le scrutin décisif pour chaque formation). Il y avait aussi deux débats avant le premier tour de l’élection présidentielle.

Un débat peut être considéré comme un système de communication interactif basé sur l’échange d'arguments qui est emboîté dans un système de communication unidirectionnel (la diffusion TV). Différents types de catégories ont été appliqués pour l'analyse des propos des candidats au cours de ces débats: le repérage des divergences et des convergences, le caractère rétrospectif ou prospectif du discours, l'aspect défensif ou agressif du message, et le contenu relationnel ou substantiel des énoncés.
Le Match de la campagne: les effets d'agenda et de cadrage des couvertures du magazine Paris Match pendant la présidentielle française de 2017
Authors: Dakhlia Jamil
Published: June 2018

Dans quelle mesure Paris Match peut-il être considéré comme le moteur de la peopolisation politique française? L'analyse d'un échantillon de vingt-et-une couvertures du magazine parues entre le 14 avril 2016 et le 7 mai 2017 permet d'abord d'identifier un cadrage spécifique de la campagne, marqué au coin d'une féminité stéréotypée et de valeurs doxiques. On montre ensuite comment ce cadrage vient au renfort de stratégies éditoriales et de stratégies politiques en vue, dans les deux cas, de s'imposer à l'agenda électoral. Enfin, l'exploitation de la base Europresse donne un aperçu des réactions de la presse écrite française aux couvertures de Match sur le couple Macron et François et/ou Penelope Fillon. L'objectif est alors de vérifier non seulement dans quelle mesure ces couvertures retiennent l'attention d'autres médias mais également si le cadrage valorisant escompté fait école ou est à l'inverse contesté.
Candidate Debates and L’Émission politique in the Rivalry between TF1 and France 2
Authors: Perry Sheila
Published: June 2018

This article examines the rivalry between the two main French television channels, the private TF1 and the public sector France 2, as expressed through the medium of political programming during the 2017 presidential election. Examining the assertion that TF1 reasserted its leadership in this ‘return match’, and setting it in the wider context of current trends in politics on television, it is argued that TF1 astutely exploited new provisions in the regulatory framework for 2017, while also benefiting from a favourable, unprecedented set of political circumstances. France 2, on the other hand, saw its reputation as a vehicle for informed political discussion somewhat tarnished by a series of decisions designed to meet the ever-increasing challenge posed by both its traditional rival and later entrants – notably the rolling news channel BFMTV – and infotainment. The 2017 developments raise questions regarding the role of political journalists in televised debate.
The Efficacy of High-Protein Tropical Forages as Alternative Protein Sourcesfor Chickens: A Review
Authors: Abdelnour Sameh A. , Abd El-Hack Mohamed E. , Ragni Marco
Published: June 2018

Smallholders of poultry production systems in developing countries are commonly found in rural, resource-poor areas, and often face food insecurity. The main constraints for smallholders in poultry production in rural, resource-poor areas are the shortage of available commercial dietary protein and the high cost of commercial diets. The beneficial effects of legume and forage cultivation are economic, through providing protein for animals, and ecological, such as soil amendment, nitrogen fixation, and stripping control which participate to increase cropping efficiency. The potential nutritive value of a wide range of forages and grain legumes is presented and discussed. The impacts of dietary protein, fiber, and secondary metabolites in plant content, as as well as their consequences on feed efficiency, animal performance, and digestion processes are enclosed in this review. Lastly, approaches to reduce the anti-nutritional factors of the secondary metabolites of plants are explained.
Manufacturing of Non-Stick Molds from Pre-Painted Aluminum Sheets via Single Point Incremental Forming
Authors: Rodriguez-Alabanda Oscar , Narvaez Miguel A. , Guerrero-Vaca Guillermo , Romero Pablo E.
Published: June 2018

The process of single point incremental formation (SPIF) awakens interest in the industry of mold manufacturing for the food industry. By means of SPIF, it is possible to generate short series of molds or mold prototypes at low cost. However, these industries require such molds to be functional (non-sticky) and to have an adequate geometry accuracy. This study presents a technique that enables direct manufacturing of molds from pre-coated sheets with non-stick resins. It has also studied the influence of two technological variables in the process (feed-rate and pitch) for different geometrical parameters of the mold. Low values of these variables result in a lower overall error in the profile obtained. However, in order to obtain greater detail in particular parameters (angles, depth), it is necessary to use higher values of feed-rate and pitch.
Stability of Cu-Precipitates in Al-Cu Alloys
Authors: Staab Torsten E. M. , Folegati Paola , Wolfertz Iris , Puska Martti J.
Published: June 2018

We present first principle calculations on formation and binding energies for Cu and Zn as solute atoms forming small clusters up to nine atoms in Al-Cu and Al-Zn alloys. We employ a density-functional approach implemented using projector-augmented waves and plane wave expansions. We find that some structures, in which Cu atoms are closely packed on {100}-planes, turn out to be extraordinary stable. We compare the results with existing numerical or experimental data when possible. We find that Cu atoms precipitating in the form of two-dimensional platelets on {100}-planes in the fcc aluminum are more stable than three-dimensional structures consisting of the same number of Cu-atoms. The preference turns out to be opposite for Zn in Al. Both observations are in agreement with experimental observations.
Evaluation of the Implicit Gradient-Enhanced Regularization of a Damage-Plasticity Rock Model
Authors: Schreter Magdalena , Neuner Matthias , Hofstetter Günter
Published: June 2018

In the present publication, the performance of an implicit gradient-enhanced damage-plasticity model is evaluated with special focus on the prediction of complex failure modes such as shear failure. Hence, it complements studies on predominant mode I failure frequently found in the literature. To this end, an implicit gradient-enhanced damage-plasticity rock model is presented and validated by means of 2D and 3D finite element simulations of both laboratory tests on intact rock specimens as well as a large-scale structural benchmark related to failure of rock mass. Thereby, a wide range of loading conditions comprising unconfined and/or confined, tensile and/or compressive stress states is considered. The capability of the gradient-enhanced rock model for representing the mechanical response objectively with respect to the finite element discretization and realistically compared to measurement data is assessed. It is shown that complex failure modes and the respective load–displacement curves are predicted in a mesh-insensitive manner.
The Use of Co-Precipitation to Produce Nano-Mn–Zn Ferrite ([MnxZn1−x]Fe2O4) from Waste Batteries
Authors: Liu Yenchun , Hsu Jarnchih
Published: June 2018

This study uses pure materials or waste batteries to produce a nanoscale Mn–Zn ferrite. Acid is used to dissolve the battery into solution and then co-precipitation is used to produce nanoscale ferrite. When the calcination temperature in an air atmosphere exceeds 600 °C, α-Fe2O3 is generated and there is a decrease in the saturated magnetization. Using waste batteries to produce [Mn0.54Zn0.46]Fe2O4 at a pH of 10, the saturated magnetization is 62.85 M (emu/g), which is optimal. At a pH of 10, the particulate diameter is largest, at about 40 nm. The stronger the crystal phase of Mn–Zn ferrite, the greater is the saturated magnetization. The ferrite crystal phase is analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The stronger the crystal phase, the larger is the average particulate diameter. The magnetic properties, the particulate diameter and the magnetic flux density of ferrite powders that are prepared under different conditions are studied. [MnxZn1−x]Fe2O4 ferrite powders can be used as an iron core and as resonance imaging materials.
Programmable Zoom Lens System with Two Spatial Light Modulators: Limits Imposed by the Spatial Resolution
Authors: Davis Jeffrey A. , Hall Trevor I. , Moreno Ignacio , Sorger Jason P. , Cottrell Don M.
Published: June 2018

In this work we present an experimental proof of concept of a programmable optical zoom lens system with no moving parts that can form images with both positive and negative magnifications. Our system uses two programmable liquid crystal spatial light modulators to form the lenses composing the zoom system. The results included show that images can be formed with both positive and negative magnifications. Experimental results match the theory. We discuss the size limitations of this system caused by the limited spatial resolution and discuss how newer devices would shrink the size of the system.
Modified LMS Strategies Using Internal Model Control for Active Noise and Vibration Control Systems
Authors: Kim Byeongil , Yoon Jong-Yun
Published: June 2018

Traditional adaptive filtering algorithms are non-recursive systems that cannot use a time-variant reference input in real time and are not appropriate for control signals with uncertainties and unanticipated conditions. The main purpose of this research is to design novel adaptive digital filtering algorithms based on internal model control (IMC). The new methods consist of a process model for the target plant so as to estimate its dynamic behavior for active vibration and noise attenuation schemes in order to improve the stability, robustness, and tracking performance. On the basis of on the existing least mean squares, the methods are combined with an internal model controller, or the whole adaptive filtering system could become a feedback control system structure based on IMC. The performances were validated in numerical simulations with various conditions that could have happened in realistic applications, and the results were compared with the original algorithms. This study shows that the active noise and vibration systems that are applied to vehicles, mechanical systems, and other targets are enhanced through improving the performance of conventional adaptive filtering algorithms and by using internal model control effectively.
Modelling Shear Induced Diffusion Based Particle Segregation: A Basis for Novel Separation Technology
Authors: Drijer Ivon , Schroën Karin
Published: June 2018

Shear induced diffusion (SID) based flow segregation is a technique that can be used for concentration and fractionation purposes, and it has the potential to become an economical and sustainable alternative for e.g., membrane separation. When compared to conventional microfiltration, problems related to fouling and cleaning are expected to be minimal. To make the best use of the opportunities that this technique holds, detailed insights in flow and particle behavior are needed. Modelling this process allows for us to chart particle segregation in flow, as well as the effect of suspension removal through a pore and the restoration of the flow profile after the pore. As a starting point, we take the computation fluid dynamics (CFD) model that is presented in a previous study. A difference in channel height to particle diameter ratio influences the entrance length of the SID profile as well as its fully developed profile. When extracting liquid through one pore, particles are systematically transmitted at a lower concentration (59–78%) than is present in the bulk. The recovery lengths of the SID profile after the pore were short, and thus pores can be placed at realistic distances, which forms a good foundation for further design of this novel separation technology that will ultimately be applied for fractionation of particles taking relatively small differences in diffusive behavior as a starting point.
Laboratory Evaluation on Performance of Compound-Modified Asphalt for Rock Asphalt/Styrene–Butadiene Rubber (SBR) and Rock Asphalt/Nano-CaCO3
Authors: Lv Songtao , Wang Shuangshuang , Guo Tong , Xia Chengdong , Li Jianglong , Hou Gui
Published: June 2018

As a natural modifier of asphalt, rock asphalt has been widely used to improve its thermal stability and aging resistance. However, the thermal cracking resistance of asphalt modified by rock asphalt is unsatisfactory. In order to improve the thermal cracking resistance in low temperature, two kinds of modifiers—styrene–butadiene rubber (SBR) and nano-CaCO3—were selected as the compound modifiers, and then implemented to improve the low-temperature performance of the binder. Then, compound asphalt modified by Buton rock asphalt (BRA) was chosen as the study subject. The thermal stability and aging resistance of asphalt modified by BRA, compound-modified asphalt by BRA/SBR, and compound-modified asphalt by BRA and nano-CaCO3 were determined to identify whether the compound modifiers in the asphalt would have a negative effect on the thermal stability and aging resistance of the asphalt. The dynamic shear rheometer (DSR) test was employed to evaluate the thermal stability. The thin film oven test (TFOT) and pressure aging vessel (PAV) were adopted to determine the aging resistance. The viscoelastic characteristics of asphalt with and without modifiers were revealed to evaluate the low-temperature crack resistance of asphalt modified by compound modifiers. The bending beam rheometer (BBR) creep test was conducted in three test temperatures in order to determine the creep stiffness modulus of the BRA compound-modified asphalt. The viscoelastic model considering the damage caused by loading was established; then, the creep compliance and parameters of the viscoelastic damage model were implemented to evaluate the low-temperature performance of the compound-modified asphalt. The results show that the compound modifiers have little negative effects on the thermal stability and aging resistance of asphalt. The thermal crack resistance of the compound-modified asphalt by BRA/SBR was the best, followed by the compound-modified asphalt by BRA and nano-CaCO3 within the three materials. The accuracy of forecasting the characteristics of compound-modified asphalt was improved by using the viscoelastic model and considering the damage effect.
Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System Based Grading of Basmati Rice Grains Using Image Processing Technique
Authors: Mandal Dipankar
Published: June 2018

Grading of rice intents to discriminate broken and whole grain from a sample. Standard techniques for image-based rice grading using advanced statistical methods seldom take into account the domain knowledge associated with the data. In the context of a high product value basmati rice with an image based grading process, one ought to consider the physical properties of grain and the associated knowledge. In this present work, a model of quality grade testing and identification is proposed using a novel digital image processing and knowledge-based adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). The rationale behind adopting a grading system based on fuzzy rules relies on capabilities of ANFIS to simulate the behaviour of an expert in the characterization of rice grain using the physical properties of rice grains. The rice kernels are characterized with the help of morphological descriptors and geometric features which are derived from sample images of milled basmati rice. The predictive capability of the proposed technique has been tested on a sufficient number of training and test images of basmati rice grain. The proposed method outperforms with a promising result in an evaluation of rice quality with >98.5% classification accuracy for broken and whole grain as compared to standard machine learning technique viz. support vector machine (SVM) and K-nearest neighbour (KNN). The milling efficiency is also assessed using the ratio between head rice and broken rice percentage and it is 77.27% for the test sample. The overall results of the adopted methodology are promising in terms of classification accuracy and efficiency.
Improving Efficiency of Edge Computing Infrastructures through Orchestration Models †
Authors: Bolla Raffaele , Carrega Alessandro , Repetto Matteo , Robino Giorgio
Published: June 2018

Edge computing is an effective paradigm for proximity in computation, but must inexorably face mobility issues and traffic fluctuations. While software orchestration may provide effective service handover between different edge infrastructures, seamless operation with negligible service disruption necessarily requires pre-provisioning and the need to leave some network functions idle for most of the time, which eventually results in large energy waste and poor efficiency. Existing consolidation algorithms are largely ineffective in these conditions because they lack context, i.e., the knowledge of which resources are effectively used and which ones are just provisioned for other purposes (i.e., redundancy, resilience, scaling, migration). Though the concept is rather straightforward, its feasibility in real environments must be demonstrated. Motivated by the lack of energy-efficiency mechanisms in cloud management software, we have developed a set of extensions to OpenStack for power management and Quality of Service, explicitly targeting the introduction of more context for applications. In this paper, we briefly describe the overall architecture and evaluate its efficiency and effectiveness. We analyze performance metrics and their relationship with power consumption, hence extending the analysis to specific aspects that cannot be investigated by software simulations. We also show how the usage of context information can greatly improve the effectiveness of workload consolidation in terms of energy saving.
Manipulation of Si Doping Concentration for Modification of the Electric Field and Carrier Injection for AlGaN-Based Deep-Ultraviolet Light-Emitting Diodes
Authors: Fang Mengqian , Tian Kangkai , Chu Chunshuang , Zhang Yonghui , Zhang Zi-Hui , Bi Wengang
Published: June 2018

Electron overflow is one of the key factors that limit the quantum efficiency for AlGaN-based deep-ultraviolet light-emitting diodes. In this work, we report a numerical study to improve the electron injection efficiency by manipulating the electric field profiles via doping the n-Al0.60Ga0.40N electron source layer with different concentrations and reveal the physical mechanism of the Si doping effect on the electron and the hole injection. By utilizing the appropriate doping concentration, the electric field will reduce the electron drift velocity and, thus, the mean free path. Therefore, a higher electron capture efficiency by the multiple quantum wells (MQWs) and an increase of the hole concentration in the active region can be realized, resulting in an improved radiative recombination rate and an optical output power.
The Effect of a Vertical Electric Field on the Surface Flashover Characteristics of a Bushing Model
Authors: Zhu Mingxi , Wang Liming , Yin Fanghui , Farzaneh Masoud , Mei Hongwei , Wen Lu
Published: June 2018

High-voltage bushings play a crucial role in energy conveyance. Their specialized electric structure makes the bushing more vulnerable to surface discharge. However, the influence of a vertical electric field on the surface flashover of bushing structures remains unclear. To investigate this mechanism, four simplified bushing samples were built and the influence of pollution, leakage length, and the electric field component vertical to the dielectric surface on flashover properties of the bushing samples were tested. It was found that the surface pollution level was the decisive factor that influenced flashover voltage. When the leakage length and form factor were the same, the pollution flashover of the bushing structure was lower than that of the post structure. It was also found that increasing the leakage length was not very effective in improving the flashover voltage of bushings when the equivalent salt deposit density (ESDD) was high. No obvious correlation was found between pollution flashover voltage and electric field stress. Furthermore, the uneven wetting flashover performance of the bushings was tested. Under this condition, the flashover voltage decreased with an increase of the electric field component vertical to the dielectric surface. In addition, the electric field distribution of the samples was calculated and the results were in accordance with the experimental results.
The Future of Fossil Fired Power Plants in Germany—A Lifetime Analysis
Authors: Markewitz Peter , Robinius Martin , Stolten Detlef
Published: June 2018

In many German energy projections, the assumption of power plant lifetimes plays a central role, since it is often used in projections for the existing fleet of power plants or as a criterion for decommissioning in model-based investigations. The result of these analyses is a power plant capacity retirement graph, which is then used to determine the replacement demand. Especially in the context of the German Energy transition (“Energiewende”) the amount and dynamics of replacement play an important role. Against this background, a large number of studies have been evaluated and fleet developments compared. Many studies refer to empirical values for the assumption of lifetimes without specifying them in greater detail. This approach was used to conduct an ex post lifetime analysis—accurate to each number of units—of German power plants that have been decommissioned since 1990. The analysis is conducted with the aid of a power plant database, which has been continuously updated for each individual unit since 1985. In addition to the power plants currently in operation, the database includes also includes power plant units that have been successively decommissioned over the past decades. The ex post analysis presents the first lifetime analysis for decommissioned German plants, which can serve as a basis for future power plant fleet projections. The analyses show that the lifetime of fossil-fired power plants has extended considerably. For example, whereas the real lifetimes of coal-fired power plants were in a range of 30 to 35 years in the 1990s, today they amount to 40 to 45 years on average.
Enterococci Isolated from Cypriot Green Table Olives as a New Source of Technological and Probiotic Properties
Authors: Anagnostopoulos Dimitrios A. , Bozoudi Despina , Tsaltas Dimitrios
Published: June 2018

Τable olive is one of the main fermented vegetable worldwide and can be processed as treated or natural product. Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) are responsible for the fermentation of treated olives. The aim of this work was to study the technological characteristics and the potential probiotic properties of LAB isolated from Cypriot green table olives. This is the first comprehensive report on the isolation and characterization of LAB isolates retrieved from Cypriot green table olives. From a collection of 92 isolates from spontaneously fermenting green olives, 64 g positive isolates were firstly identified to genus level using biochemical tests, and secondly to species level using multiplex species specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplifications of the sodA gene. Moreover, each of our isolates were tested for their technological and probiotics properties, as well as for their safety characteristics, using biochemical and molecular methods, in order to be used as starter cultures. Finally, to discriminate the most promising isolates on the base of their technological and probiotics properties, Principal component analysis was used. All the isolates were identified as Enteroccocus faecium, having interesting technological properties, while pathogenicity determinants were absent. Principal component analysis showed that some isolates had a combination of the tested parameters. These findings demonstrate that enteroccoci from Cypriot table olives should be considered as a new source of potential starter cultures for fermented products, having possibly promising technological and probiotic attributes.
Deriving A Drinking Water Guideline for A Non-Carcinogenic Contaminant: The Case of Manganese
Authors: Valcke Mathieu , Bourgault Marie-Hélène , Haddad Sami , Bouchard Michèle , Gauvin Denis , Levallois Patrick
Published: June 2018

Manganese is a natural contaminant of water sources. It is an essential oligo-element, which may exert toxicity at high doses, particularly via inhalation. Its toxicity by the oral route is less known, but epidemiological and experimental studies tend to support its neurodevelopmental toxicity in infants and children. This paper describes the method used by a middle-size public health institution to derive a Drinking Water Guideline (DWG) for manganese. After reviewing the work done by major public health institutions, authors confirmed the use of experimental data to derive a point-of-departure (POD) of 25 mg of manganese/kg/day, based on neurodevelopmental effects on pup rats. Then, a total uncertainty factor of 450 was applied to calculate a Toxicological Reference Value (TRV) of 55 µg/kg/day. The final DWG proposed for manganese is 60 µg/L and is based on a relative source contribution (RSC) of water of 20% and an infant drinking scenario of 182 mL/kg of body weight (BW) of water (95th percentile of the ingestion rate distribution for 0–6 months). Despite its limitations, e.g., starting with the work done by other agencies, such an approach demonstrates in a transparent way the rationale and challenging choices made by regulators when deriving a DWG.
Multi-Criteria Land Evaluation of Suitability for the Sport of Foot Orienteering: A Case Study of Croatia and Slovenia
Authors: Tutić Dražen , Štanfel Matjaž , Horvat Martina Triplat
Published: June 2018

This paper describes a new multi-criteria land evaluation method, based on geomorphology and land cover, for the automated detection of suitable terrain for the sport of foot orienteering (footO). Reference data, in the form of areas already mapped and used for footO, was used to define criteria for geomorphology and land cover, and represents an expert knowledge component. The motivation for this research is that orienteering maps are often drawn for unfamiliar terrain that organizers of the event or mapmakers need to determine in advance, usually from base maps or by random reconnaissance. In a presented case study of Croatia and Slovenia, the geomorphology was derived from Digital Elevation Model over Europe (EU-DEM). The slope and aspect define components of the direction of the surface, and we tested the usability of these simple terrain parameters for the task. The CORINE dataset was used for the definition of the land cover. The results of the case study give potentially suitable areas for foot orienteering in Croatia and Slovenia, and in neighboring areas. Evaluation of the results, using reference areas as the control, proved that the proposed methodology gives a reliable indication of terrain suitability for orienteering. The method is simple, straightforward, and can be performed using standard GIS with common raster algorithms.
Advanced Sidereal Filtering for Mitigating Multipath Effects in GNSS Short Baseline Positioning
Authors: Wang Minghua , Wang Jiexian , Dong Danan , Chen Wen , Li Haojun , Wang Zhiren
Published: June 2018

Advanced sidereal filtering (ASF) is an observation-domain sidereal filtering that adopts the repeat time of each individual satellite separately rather than the mean repeat time, adopted by the modified sidereal filtering (MSF). To evaluate the performance of ASF, we apply the method to filter the multipath for a short baseline based on a dual-antenna Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver. The errors from satellite and receiver clocks, satellite orbit, troposphere, ionosphere, and antenna phase center variations are greatly eliminated by single difference between the two antennas because they are connected to the same receiver clock. The performances of ASF are compared with MSF to evaluate the gain for multipath mitigation. Comparisons indicate that ASF slightly outperforms MSF when the repeat time values of all satellites incorporated in data processing are within the normal range (86,145–86,165 s), but the difference of variance reduction rate between ASF and MSF is statistically significant. When the data of a satellite with repeat time outside the normal range are included, the performances of MSF become much worse, but ASF is almost not affected. This advantage of ASF over MSF is important because the proportion of the days on which at least one satellite’s repeat time exceeds the normal range reaches 71.19% based on the statistics on the data of 2014 and 2015. After applying ASF multipath corrections on the test days, the averages of standard deviations of north, east, and up component are reduced from 3.8 to 2.1 mm, 3.2 to 1.7 mm, and 7.6 to 4.3 mm, respectively. Comparison between applying ASF with the single-day model and with the seven-day model indicates that the former is generally more effective in multipath reduction.
Uncovering Spatial Inequality in Taxi Services in the Context of a Subsidy War among E-Hailing Apps
Authors: Su Rongxiang , Fang Zhixiang , Xu Hong , Huang Lian
Published: June 2018

Spatial inequalities in urban public transportation are a major concern in many countries but little of this research has focused specifically on taxi services. The taxi situation has grown more complex, as traditional ride-for-hire services face growing competition from e-hailing apps like Uber in the U.S., or Didi and Kuaidi in China. In 2014, Didi and Kuaidi triggered a nationwide subsidy war, with possible effects on the spatial inequality of taxi services. Taxi trajectory data from Shenzhen collected during the subsidy war shows that this competition reduced spatial inequality in the inner city but aggravated it in the outer city. In this study, a measure of service rate to depict the quantity of taxi services is proposed to calculate a Gini coefficient for evaluating change in the spatial inequality of taxi services. The Theil index and its decomposition were used to distinguish the contribution of Traffic Analysis Zones (TAZs) in the inner and the outer city and compare them to the overall spatial inequality of taxi services in Shenzhen, TAZs in the outer city had greater inequality in taxi services than the inner city. Furthermore, the primary contributor to overall inequality in taxi services was inequality within, rather than between, the inner and outer city. Moreover, the mean values for the changed service rates in the inner city were always larger than the outer city, and the inner city had a more equitable changed service rate than the outer city. These results could serve as a foundation for improving taxi services citywide.
A RSSI/PDR-Based Probabilistic Position Selection Algorithm with NLOS Identification for Indoor Localisation
Authors: Han Ke , Xing Huashuai , Deng Zhongliang , Du Yichen
Published: June 2018

In recent years, location-based services have been receiving increasing attention because of their great development prospects. Researchers from all over the world have proposed many solutions for indoor positioning over the past several years. However, owing to the dynamic and complex nature of indoor environments, accurately and efficiently localising targets in indoor environments remains a challenging problem. In this paper, we propose a novel indoor positioning algorithm based on the received signal strength indication and pedestrian dead reckoning. In order to enhance the accuracy and reliability of our proposed probabilistic position selection algorithm in mixed line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) environments, a low-complexity identification approach is proposed to identify the change in the channel situation between NLOS and LOS. Numerical experiment results indicate that our proposed algorithm has a higher accuracy and is less impacted by NLOS errors than other conventional methods in mixed LOS and NLOS indoor environments.
Analysis of Thematic Similarity Using Confusion Matrices
Authors: García-Balboa José L. , Alba-Fernández María V. , Ariza-López Francisco J. , Rodríguez-Avi José
Published: June 2018

The confusion matrix is the standard way to report on the thematic accuracy of geographic data (spatial databases, topographic maps, thematic maps, classified images, remote sensing products, etc.). Two widely adopted indices for the assessment of thematic quality are derived from the confusion matrix. They are overall accuracy (OA) and the Kappa coefficient (ĸ), which have received some criticism from some authors. Both can be used to test the similarity of two independent classifications by means of a simple statistical hypothesis test, which is the usual practice. Nevertheless, this is not recommended, because different combinations of cell values in the matrix can obtain the same value of OA or ĸ, due to the aggregation of data needed to compute these indices. Thus, not rejecting a test for equality between two index values does not necessarily mean that the two matrices are similar. Therefore, we present a new statistical tool to evaluate the similarity between two confusion matrices. It takes into account that the number of sample units correctly and incorrectly classified can be modeled by means of a multinomial distribution. Thus, it uses the individual cell values in the matrices and not aggregated information, such as the OA or ĸ values. For this purpose, it is considered a test function based on the discrete squared Hellinger distance, which is a measure of similarity between probability distributions. Given that the asymptotic approximation of the null distribution of the test statistic is rather poor for small and moderate sample sizes, we used a bootstrap estimator. To explore how the p-value evolves, we applied the proposed method over several predefined matrices which are perturbed in a specified range. Finally, a complete numerical example of the comparison of two matrices is presented.
Lead (Pb) Exposure Enhances Expression of Factors Associated with Inflammation
Authors: Metryka Emilia , Chibowska Karina , Gutowska Izabela , Falkowska Anna , Kupnicka Patrycja , Barczak Katarzyna , Chlubek Dariusz , Baranowska-Bosiacka Irena
Published: June 2018

The human immune system is constantly exposed to xenobiotics and pathogens from the environment. Although the mechanisms underlying their influence have already been at least partially recognized, the effects of some factors, such as lead (Pb), still need to be clarified. The results of many studies indicate that Pb has a negative effect on the immune system, and in our review, we summarize the most recent evidence that Pb can promote inflammatory response. We also discuss possible molecular and biochemical mechanisms of its proinflammatory action, including the influence of Pb on cytokine metabolism (interleukins IL-2, IL-4, IL-8, IL-1b, IL-6), interferon gamma (IFNγ), and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α); the activity and expression of enzymes involved in the inflammatory process (cyclooxygenases); and the effect on selected acute phase proteins: C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin, and ceruloplasmin. We also discuss the influence of Pb on the immune system cells (T and B lymphocytes, macrophages, Langerhans cells) and the secretion of IgA, IgE, IgG, histamine, and endothelin.
Transmission Success of Entomopathogenic Nematodes Used in Pest Control
Authors: Labaude Sophie , Griffin Christine T.
Published: June 2018

Entomopathogenic nematodes from the two genera Steinernema and Heterorhabditis are widely used as biological agents against various insect pests and represent a promising alternative to replace pesticides. Efficacy and biocontrol success can be enhanced through improved understanding of their biology and ecology. Many endogenous and environmental factors influence the survival of nematodes following application, as well as their transmission success to the target species. The aim of this paper is to give an overview of the major topics currently considered to affect transmission success of these biological control agents, including interactions with insects, plants and other members of the soil biota including conspecifics.
Surgical treatment of acute type A aortic dissection
Authors: Sakalauskas Juozas , Kinduris Šarūnas , Benetis Rimas , Giedraitis Saulius , Jakuška Povilas , Tamošiūnas Vladas , Aleksonienė Ina
Published: June 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the short-term results of surgical treatment in patients with acute aortic dissection. Patients and methods. A retrospective analysis of 38 patients with acute type A aortic dissection who were surgically treated at the Clinic of Cardiac, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery, Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine, from January 2004 to December 2007 was conducted. The diagnosis of aortic dissection was confirmed by employing special techniques. Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography was performed in 34 (89.5%) patients; transesophageal echocardiography, in 24 (63.1%); computed tomography, in 29 (76.3%); coronagraphy and angiography, in 20 (52.6%). Preoperative shock was reported in 3 (7.9%) and cardiac tamponade in 18 (47.4%) cases. More than half (57.9%) of patients were operated on within the first 24 hours after admission. In the majority of cases (73.7%), the diameter of the aorta exceeded 4 cm. In the presence of type A aortic dissection, all patients underwent surgery on cardiopulmonary bypass; its duration varied from 20 to 485 min, with a mean of 214.6±102.9 min. The mean aortic cross-clamp time was 114.5±62.7 min. Complete circulatory arrest was needed in the majority of cases (86.8%), and it lasted 2 to 97 min (mean, 27.4±18.6 min). During cardiopulmonary bypass, body temperature was decreased to 17–28°C (mean, 18.9±1.95°C). The duration of surgery ranged from 1 to 14 hours, with a mean of 6.1±2.49 hours. During the early postoperative period, 12 (31.6%) patients died. Postoperative bleeding was seen in 16 (42.1%) patients, and 6 of them died later. Due to prolonged bleeding, 4 (10.5%) patients were left with an open sternum after surgery. Resternotomy was performed in 9 patients; 3 of them died due to multiorgan injury. During postoperative period, cardiogenic shock of various degrees was seen in 7 (18.4%) patients. Central nervous system injury occurred in 9 (23.7%) patients. Conclusion. The main risk factor for acute aortic dissection is the diameter of the aorta exceeding 4 cm (diagnosed in 73.7% of cases). The main postoperative complications are bleeding (42.1%), injuries of central nervous system (23.7%), and cardiogenic shock (18.4%).
Safety and efficacy study of the recombinant granulocyte colony-stimulating factor for prevention of neutropenia and neutropenia-related complications in women with metastatic breast cancer receiving docetaxel/doxorubicin
Authors: Liutkauskienė Sigita , Sveikata Audrius , Juozaitytė Elona , Characiejus Dainius , Juodžbalienė Edita , Kregždytė Rima , Fokas Vidmantas
Published: June 2018

Background. We evaluated efficacy and safety of recombinant granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (rGCSF) used as primary prophylaxis to prevent neutropenia and neutropenia-related complications induced by docetaxel and doxorubicin chemotherapy in patients with metastatic breast cancer. Patients and methods. Three centers in Lithuania enrolled 36 patients who received rGCSF (5 μg/kg/d) on day 2 of each 21-day chemotherapy with docetaxel 75 mg/m2 and doxorubicin 50 mg/m2 (AT) starting in the first cycle. Treatment regimen was repeated for up to six cycles. Results. Leukocytosis, bone pain, and headache were the most frequent adverse events, with incidence rates of 22%, 19%, and 8%, respectively. Adverse events were typical for rGCSF in this patient population. Overall incidence rate of febrile neutropenia was 14%. The mean duration of febrile neutropenia episodes across cycles was 2.14 days. Incidence of chemotherapy delay was 2%. There was no reduction in chemotherapy dose due to expected toxicity or side effects. Intravenous antibiotics for the treatment of febrile neutropenia were needed in 19% of cases. Quality-of-life assessment shows a significant improvement in emotional functioning and a significant decrease in pain score. The efficacy profile of rGCSF observed in the present study was comparable with that of other rGCSF products previously described in the published scientific literature. Conclusions. The primary prophylaxis of neutropenia and its complications by rGCSF was safe and effective for women with metastatic breast cancer who received chemotherapy with docetaxel and doxorubicin.
Surgical treatment of humeral metastatic tumors
Authors: Toliušis Vytautas , Kalesinskas Romas , Kiudelis Mindaugas , Maleckas Almantas
Published: June 2018

Objective. To evaluate the functional outcome and pain control in patients after resection of humeral metastases. Material and methods. A prospective randomized study of 24 cases of metastatic disease of the humerus with an associated pathologic fracture was carried out. The selected cases were divided into two groups based on the using methylmethacrylate cement for fracture fixation. Group 1 (n=12) included all cases in which the fracture was treated with bone cement augmentation. Group 2 (n=12) included all cases in which the fracture was treated without bone cement augmentation. Functional outcome was evaluated according to the American Musculoskeletal Tumor Society system. Results. Good and excellent pain control was achieved in 95% of cases in both groups. Functional outcome after resection of humeral metastases and pathological fracture fixation was significantly better in Group 1. Total function in five patients (45%) accounted for 86% and in three patients (25%) for 83% of full normal upper extremity function, whereas in Group 2, total function in six patients (50%) accounted for 70% and in three patients (25%) for 83% of full normal upper extremity function. The rate of fixation failure was significantly greater in Group 2, where fixation instability was observed in 50% (n=6) of cases (P=0.03). There were no significant differences in complication rate (in 50% of cases, mechanical instability occurred after fixation with intramedullary nail and in 50% of cases after fixation with plates). Conclusions. The introduction of bone cement as an adjunct to fixation of pathologic fracture improved clinical results and reduced the rate of fixation failure.
The accuracy of different imaging techniques in diagnosis of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis
Authors: Malcius Dalius , Jonkus Martynas , Kuprionis Gintaras , Maleckas Almantas , Monastyreckienė Eglė , Uktveris Rimantas , Rinkevičius Sigitas , Barauskas Vidmantas
Published: June 2018

Objective. The aim of this study was to establish and compare diagnostic accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratio) of plain x-ray, ultrasonography, bone scintigraphy, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in pediatric acute hematogenous osteomyelitis. Material and methods. Analysis of patients’ data, hospitalized at the Department of Pediatric Surgery with suspected acute hematogenous osteomyelitis in the period of 2002–2008, was carried out prospectively. Inclusion criteria were age of 1–18 years, pain in bone area, fever, functional disorder, and (or) signs of infection. Plain x-ray, ultrasonography, bone scintigraphy, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging were performed. The recommendations of Standards for Reporting of Diagnostic Accuracy were used in study design. Results. A total of 183 patients were included into the study. Acute hematogenous osteomyelitis was diagnosed in 156 (85%) patients, and 27 (15%) had other diseases. A total of 169 early plain x-rays (median on the first day of hospital stay), 142 late x-rays (15th day of hospital stay), 82 ultrasonographies (second day), 76 bone scintigraphy (third day), 38 MRI scans (seventh day), and 17 CT (15th day) were performed. The sensitivity of ultrasonography was 0.55 (95% CI, 0.43–0.67); specificity, 0.47 (95% CI, 0.24–0.7); and diagnostic odds ratio, 1.08 (95% CI, 0.3–3.84). The sensitivity of CT was 0.67 (95% CI, 0.38–0.88); specificity, 0.5 (95% CI, 0.01– 0.98); and diagnostic odds ratio, 2.0 (95% CI, 0.02–172.4). The sensitivity of early x-ray was 0.16 (95% CI 0.1–0.23); specificity, 0.96 (95% CI, 0.78–1.0); and diagnostic odds ratio, 4.34 (95% CI, 0.63–186.3). The sensitivity of MRI was 0.81 (95% CI, 0.64–0.93); specificity, 0.67 (95% CI, 0.22–0.96); and diagnostic odds ratio, 8.67 (95% CI, 0.91–108.5). The sensitivity of late x-ray was 0.82 (95% CI, 0.75–0.88); specificity, 0.92 (95% CI, 0.62–1.0); and diagnostic odds ratio, 51.17 (95% CI, 6.61–2222.0). The sensitivity of bone scintigraphy was 0.81 (95% CI, 0.68–0.90); specificity, 0.84 (95% CI, 0.60–0.97); and diagnostic odds ratio, 22.30 (95% CI, 4.9–132.7). Conclusions. Our analysis showed that late x-ray is the most valuable radiologic method in the diagnosis of acute hematogenous osteomyelitis, but bone scintigraphy and magnetic resonance imaging are the most valuable tests at the onset of the disease.