bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Measure Algorithm Based On Cosamp For Image Recovery
Authors: Wu Guohui , Li Xingkun , Dai Jiyang
Published: February 2018

abstract

In order to improve the quality of the reconstruction image which using Compressive sensing(CS) algorithm. Based on improved measurement matrix combined with CS Matching Pursuit(CoSaMP)algorithm, this paper presents a kind of Fourier Ring Compressive Sampling Matching Pursuit (FR-CoSaMP) algorithm. The algorithm superimposed deterministic ring measurement matrix to optimize measurement process on the basis of Fourier measurement matrix. And solve the iterative inverse operation by using FFT fast Fourier calculation method, which can make the measurement information more complete, and speed up the signal reconstruction. Then introduces the mathematical framework and algorithmic processes of the FR-CoSaMP algorithm in details. Finally, compare these types of traditional algorithms and the improved algorithm by analysis and simulation. The results show that, under the same image sparsity and measurement scale, the improved FR-CoSaMP algorithm has better performance in terms of the image reconstruction.
A Review Of Energy Optimal Topology Control For Large Wireless Network Using Yao-Graph And Its Variants
Authors: Nag Anindya , Roy Rajarshi
Published: February 2018

The advent of wireless communication and networking in the last two decades has led to the need of modification in the regular graphs used as spanners. The spanner is a sub graph of the original graph which connects the essential nodes for transmission of the message. For this purpose the Omni directional antennas are usually used and the “spanner-graph” performance metric is a constant multiplied by the same of the original graph. This constant is known as the “stretch factor”. One of the most common attribute for wireless communication is the energy required for faithful transmission of a message between two nodes. But the Omni directional antennas lead to interference and wastage of bandwidth and energy. The nodes of wireless communication are however neither always static nor equipped with any infrastructure. Rather the same might as well be ad-hoc and mobile. Another well used notion is that of the unit disk graph (UDG), where a node can communicate only if the other nodes are within the disk of unit radius. However the graph being dynamic in nature, the nodes do not have fixed transmission radii and the same changes according to the power requirement of transmission. This work of ours mainly deals with the different graphs being used as spanners. It explains a few algorithms described in other papers which it reviewed. The associated algorithms are related to Yao graph. This graph and its modifications are discussed and it is explained how they could be used energy efficiently. The Yao-Yao graph for example can be used as a spanner for certain specific values of stretch factors.
An Energy Efficient, Minimally Intrusive Multisensor Intelligent System For Health Monitoring Of Elderly People
Authors: Samanta N. , Chanda A.K. , RoyChaudhuri C.
Published: February 2018

abstract

Most of the existing systems for elderly health monitoring deploy a large number of cognitive sensors including wearable sensors for physiological parameter measurement. Increasing number of sensors not only make the system power consuming and expensive but also intrusive in nature. However, there exists very limited research on power saving algorithms in such systems incorporating customer friendly features. In this paper, we report a modified health monitoring system which addresses both these issues. The central controller unit has an in-built algorithm based on two level adaptive branch prediction techniques to detect the period of inactivity of sensor nodes. Further, only one wearable heart rate sensor node is included in the system which measures the heart rate and detects abnormality. The central controller signals an alarm to the user to wear this predicting the sleeping time. This makes the system minimally intrusive and user friendly. Thus the multi-sensor network consists of motion sensor, current sensor and a wearable heart rate sensor along with a central controller unit. The prototype of the whole system has been installed in the house of elderly person and it has been observed that the time of prediction was close to the actual time for more than 90% of the days for a test period of one month. An average of 68% power saving has been achieved in the modified system.
Application Of Boundary Layer Theory In Open Channel Flume Design
Authors: Wei Wu
Published: February 2018

In accordance with the problem of the need for calculation formula of the straight wall flume flow in open channel by experiment, the method of thee boundary layer is proposed; Analysis with boundary layer displacement thickness is studied, and the energy equation, continuous equation and the theory and critical depth of flume flow coefficient, velocity coefficient is deduced using the boundary layer theory and the flow calculation formula is given; Through iterative algorithm, the flow can be calculated theoretically. With four different kinds of parameters in the U-shaped channel flume algorithm are verified, the results show that the theoretical calculation corresponds to the actual observation. Therefore, the boundary layer theory to calculate the flow of the flume is not only studied the amount of water problems in theory, simplifies the complicated test calibration, but also has important practical value.
Vision Based Multi-Feature Hand Gesture Recognition For Indian Sign Language Manual Signs
Authors: Kharate Gajanan K. , Ghotkar Archana S.
Published: February 2018

Indian sign language (ISL) is the main communication medium among deaf Indians. An ISL vocabulary show that the hand plays a significant role in ISL. ISL includes static and dynamic hand gesture recognition. The main aim of this paper is to present multi-feature static hand gesture recognition for alphabets and numbers. Here, comparative analysis of various feature descriptors such as chain code, shape matrix, Fourier descriptor, 7 Hu moments, and boundary moments is done. Multi-feature fusion descriptor is designed using contour (Boundary moments, Fourier descriptor) and region based (7Hu moments) descriptors. Analysis of this new multi-feature descriptor is done in comparison with other individual descriptors and it showed noteworthy results over other descriptors. Three classification methods such as, Nearest Mean Classifier (NMC), k-Nearest Neighborhood (k-NN) and Naive Bayes classifier are used for classification and comparison. New Multi-feature fusion descriptor shows high recognition rate of 99.61% among all with k-NN. Real time recognition for number signs 0-9, of fusion descriptor with NMC gave 100% accuracy
Base Band Resource Distribution Under C-Ran
Authors: Niu Yanrong
Published: February 2018

Aim to cost of wireless operators constantly increases but income increases slowly, this paper researches cloud wireless access network (C-RAN) based on concentrated resources pool, proposes a dynamic projection model combined with base band processing unit (Building Base band Unit, BBU) and remote radio unit (Radio Remote Unit, RRU), designs base band resource allocation method, according to cloud calculation and C-RAN technology which introduced in this paper, through calculation and analysis, results show that using heuristic order-decreasing first-fit algorithm as the preallocation algorithm can distribute base band resource properly and realize dynamic scheduling under C-RAN, which is practical and feasible to improve utilization of base band resource and reduce power consumption
Image Processing and Recognition Algorithm for Target Tracking
Authors: Lu Liping , Wang Jinfang
Published: February 2018

to improve target tracking performance in dynamic target track system, this paper propose the processing method of positive and negative difference image to extract target information; research target image preprocessing algorithm, the separation and segmentation processing algorithm of target and background, target edge detection and extraction based on the collected images; use Laplace operator, Canny operator. Gauss-Laplace operator to gain target information and improved recognition target image effect, analyze the positive and negative difference image measure to solve the background subtraction interference between two sequence images. Through the actual image processing, The results shows the proposed processing method can clear gain target marginal information and target image particle center, control tracking platform can stably track the target, and give the comparison results
An Inverse Linearization Model for the Characterization of Non-Contact Thermopiles
Authors: V. J-S. Botero , Salazar A. , G. L-J. Morantes
Published: February 2018

A thermopile is an electronic device that converts thermal energy into electrical energy by means of arrangements of thermocouples that are connected in series. In addition, optical filters restrict the wavelength that strikes the thermopile. One of the main advantages of using a thermopile is its sensitivity to infrared radiation, which allows implementing non-contact thermometers. However, the thermopile does not provide an absolute temperature value, but a value that is proportional to the temperature gradient between the local temperature in th e measurement range of the thermopile and its internal temperature. Therefore, it is necessary to integrate temperature sensors aiming to correct the output temperature value. In this sense, the output of the thermopile corresponds to a value generatedfrom the relationship between the internal temperature of the thermopile and the output temperature. This work proposes and evaluates a thermopile characterization model, which uses an incubation system and a thermoelectric cooling device to control the room temperature and the temperature that is read out using the thermopile, respectively. This is based on the automation of the data collection procedure and the characterization of the thermistor that is used to measure the temperature of the thermopile. The result is an experimental operating surface, from which a linearization model was derived
Wireless Energy Monitoring System Of Photovoltaic Plants With Smart Anti-Theft Solution Integrated With Control Unit Of Household Electrical Consumption
Authors: Visconti P. , Lay-Ekuakille A. , Primiceri P. , Cavalera G.
Published: February 2018

This paper describes an intelligent system for monitoring photovoltaic plants, detecting thefts or malfunctions and optimizing energy production by algorithm to drive solar trackers. Sensing/processing board detects environmental parameters and calculates produced power/energy for monitoring efficiency while anti-theft system reveals any critical condition. Designed board controls biaxial trackers calculating sun position and following solar orbit to optimize energy production. Monitoring and anti-tampering systems communicate with PC or remote stations by wireless modules. Finally, wireless monitoring system of household facilities measures absorbed currents viewing consumption values on web-page. Depending on light/presence sensors, system can switch on/off monitored facilities obtaining energy savings
Study On The Discrete Time Multichannel Three Dimensional Probability Csma Protocol In Wsn
Authors: Zhao Yifan , Zhou Shengjie , Ding Hongwei , Yang Zhijun , Liu Qianlin
Published: February 2018

With the development of the times, in the wireless sensor networks, the increasing amount of information transmission requires more advanced transmission protocols. Especially accompanied by the arrival of the era of Big Data, the conflicts between traditional transport agreement and the sudden or large amount of data are increasingly prominent. The discrete time three-dimensional probability CSMA protocol with multichannel mechanism proposed solves these problems pretty well. By the new MAC protocol to control transmission of information, so that the agreement adapts various contingencies problems in the network better and has more controllable ability. Using simulation toolMATLAB for the accuracy of the agreement is demonstrated
Random Signal Frequency Identification Based On Ar Model Spectral Estimation
Authors: Song Chunhuan
Published: February 2018

The power spectral estimation is an important element in the random signal analysis. The paper will introduce the principles of the classical power spectral estimation and modern power spectral estimation, analyses their characteristics and application in MATLAB simulation. The variance obtained by the classical power spectral estimation is inversely proportional to its resolution, the resolution of the modern spectral estimation are not subject to this restriction, but also the variance achieve greatly improvement, which is a great importance for improving the accuracy of the power spectral estimation. This paper mainly studies AR model of parametric modeling in the modern spectral estimation, and then uses the simulation between the classical power spectral estimation and modern power spectral estimation for comparison, verifies the analysis of the modern power spectral estimation based on ARmodel is more accurate than the classical power spectral estimation
A Kriging-Based Unconstrained Global Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Li Yaohui
Published: February 2018

Efficient Global Optimization (EGO) algorithm with Kriging model is stable and effective for an expensive black-box function. However, How to get a more global optimal point on the basis of surrogates has been concerned in simulation-based design optimization. In order to better solve a black-box unconstrained optimization problem, this paper introduces a new EGO method named improved generalized EGO (IGEGO), in which two targets will be achieved: using Kriging surrogate model and guiding the optimal searching direction into more promising regions. Kriging modeling which can fast construct an approximation model is the premise ofperforming optimization. Next, a new infill sampling criterion (ISC) called improved generalized expected improvement which round off Euclidean norm on variation of the optimal solutions ofparameter θ to replace parameter g can effectively balance global and local search in IGEGO method. Twelve numerical tests and an engineering example are given to illustrate the reliability, applicability and effectiveness of the present method
A Gain Scheduling of PI Controllers of a Multi Span Web Transport System
Authors: Giannoccaro Nicola Ivan , Sakamoto Tetsuzo , Uchitomi Issei
Published: February 2018

This research aims to address the issue of controlling a multi-span web transport system by an automatic tuning of the PI controllers parameters. The use of multi-span web transport systems often requires dedicating a particular effort for defining a control system able to protect the integrity of the web. The possibility of using PI controllers for each section is attractive considering that an overlapping system decomposition may permit to take into account the mutual interaction of the neighbor sections. In this case, the choice of correct values of the PI parameters becomes crucial for the control performance. Existing fixed gain PI tension control schemes currently used in industrial practice require extensive tuning and do not provide the desired performance for changing operating conditions. This paper describes a simple strategy for automatically selecting the PI parameters of a multi span transport system by using an nonlinear interpolation of the trend of a preliminary calibration. The algorithm is simple and efficient providing fast real-time implementation, since it does not require any data processing. The proposed technique features robustness and simplicity. The implications of this method reside in its applicability in an industrial platform.
Foreground Detection in Surveillance Videos Via a Hybrid Local Texture Based Method
Authors: Du Xiaojing , Qin Guofeng
Published: February 2018

Foreground detection is a basic but challenging task in computer vision. In this paper, a novel hybrid local texture based method is presented to model the background for complex scenarios and an image segmentation based denoising processing is applied to reduce noise. We combine the uniform pattern of eXtended Center-Symmetric Local Binary Pattern (XCS-LBP) and Center- Symmetric Local Derivative Pattern (CS-LDP) to generate a discriminative feature with shorter histogram. Retaining the strengths of the two textures, it appears to be robust to dynamic scenes, illumination changes and noise. Based on the hybrid feature, we employ an overlapping block based Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) framework which makes classifying decision in pixel level. Experimental results on two changeling datasets (Wallflower and I2R dataset) clearly justify the performance of proposed method. Besides, we take the foreground masks obtained by proposed method as input to a tracking system showing notable results.
A Door Monitoring System for Subway Cars Based on Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Minghu WU , Rui CHEN , Jie YANG , Liangbao JIAO
Published: February 2018

The place and performance of wireless sensor networks are rapidly improving in the automotive industry, industrial and environmental monitoring. Uptake of this technology can be used in urban rail vehicle management system. Due to the difficult and time-consuming maintenance of vehicle management, a remote automatic monitoring system is needed. In this paper, it is proposed to design, develop and implement a remote automatic vehicle monitoring system. The complete system architecture includes a group of sensor nodes, some sink nodes, and a data centre. The sensor nodes are connected to the sink node, which is connected to a data centre through CDMA or General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) technologies. In order to improve the reliability of wireless transmission, retransmission and redundant path are discussed. The system has been tested for half a year and satisfactory results have been observed, which indicate that this system is useful for urban rail vehicle monitoring.
Planning of Cutter Path in High Speed Machining Based on Mapping of Triangular Grid Surface
Authors: Guan Yue-qi , Xu Du , Guan Han-qing
Published: February 2018

This paper puts forward an algorithm of generating a constant CNC spiral path based on curved surface of triangular grid. This algorithm takes fully consideration of the geometry and dynamics characteristics of the cutter-path and triangular grid cell, effectively reducing numbers of cutter lifting and maintaining the continuity of the cutter-path. This algorithm starting biasing from the contact points of cutter on the boundary of profile curve of grid layer by layer and planning the contact points of biased cutter on the parametric field, fitting contact points onto the spiral path by NURBS fitting algorithm, finally the spiral cutter-path is obtained by inverse mapping it on the grid. The algorithm in this paper can generate a path with advantages of consistence boundary, smooth and continuous path and without repeatedly need for feeding or relieving of cutter compared with those paths generated through traditional ways.
A Deployment Algorithm of Heterogeneous Underwater Sensor Network Based on Acoustic and Magnetic Joint Sensing Model
Authors: Ju-Wei ZHANG , Yu WANG , Ya-le Wang
Published: February 2018

In underwater target detection, because the acoustic environment of the shallow sea is extremely complex, the acoustic detection is becoming more and more difficult. A deployment algorithm of heterogeneous sensor network based on joint probabilistic sensing model is proposed which combine the acoustic detection and magnetic detection to detect underwater targets. Expert system knowledge is used to achieve the deployment of acoustic magnetic underwater sensor network which base on the normal working area of submarine and the frequency of target within system work a certain time. The simulation results show that the algorithm can guarantee higher detection probability, and reduce the energy consumption of network and prolong network lifetime.
Finding the Shortest Paths Among Cities in Java Island Using Node Combination Based on Dijkstra Algorithm
Authors: Amaliah Bilqis , Fatichah Chastine , Riptianingdyah Olyn
Published: February 2018

This study focuses on finding the shortest paths among cities in Java Island by repeatedly combining the start node’s nearest neighbor to implement Dijkstra algorithm. Node combination is used to find the shortest path among cities in Java by deleting the node nearest to the start node. The use of memory by node combination is more efficient than the use of memory by the original Disjkstra algorithm. The 46 cities in Java Island will be used to evaluate the performance of finding shortest path. The experimental results show that the accuracy of node combination is 92.88% with the Google Map as the reference. The successful implementation of algorithm in finding the shortest path on the real problem is a good point; therefore, the algorithm can be developed to solve the transportation network problem.
Taxonomy and Systematics of the Genus Makatinus Heyns, 1965 (Nematoda: Dorylaimida: Aporcelaimidae)
Authors: PeŃa-Santiago Reyes , Varela Ingrid
Published: February 2018

The taxonomy and the systematics of the genus Makatinus are discussed by means of the characterization of its morphological pattern and the first molecular (D2–D3 expansion segments of 28S rDNA) analysis of a representative of this taxon, Makatinus crassiformis from Costa Rica. The presence of two or more pairs of male ad-cloacal genital papillae is the most characteristic autapomorphy of the genus, but the status of its species on this concern differ among them. Both morphological and molecular data support a relationship with Aporcelaimellus, which, however, might not be as close as usually assumed. An emended diagnosis of the genus, a key to species identification, and a compendium of their morphometrics are provided. Makatinus siddiqii is regarded as species inquirenda, Makatinus simus is retained under Eudorylaimus, and Makatinus tritici becomes a junior synonym of Aporcelaimellus tritici.
Concurrent adversities and deliberate self-harm among indigenous Sami and majority Norwegian adolescents: the Norwegian Arctic Adolescent Health Study
Authors: Reigstad Bjørn , Kvernmo Siv
Published: February 2018

Background:

Few studies have investigated proximal relationships between deliberate self-harm (DSH) and concurrent adversities.

Objective:

We aimed to investigate these relationships in a community population of 4881 indigenous Sami and majority Norwegian adolescents, 15 to 16 years old, and related to ethnicity and gender.

Methods:

Youth with and without self-reports of DSH last year were compared on 12 concurrent adversities, on scales measuring family and peer functioning, and on sociodemographic conditions.

Results:

DSH last year was reported by 22.3% of the adolescents, and by more girls (28.8%) than boys (15.9%). All 12 concurrent adversities were related strongly to DSH last year. Deliberate self-harmers reported twice as many concurrent adversities as non-DSHs, and a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.80) indicated a strong multiple additive relationship, but among DSHs no ethnic or gender differences were found. Multivariately, among Sami youth sexual abuse [odds ratio (OR), 8.4] was strongly related to DSH, whereas among majority Norwegians sexual abuse (OR, 3.9) and violence (OR, 4.5) were identified as the strongest predictors. Similarly, among boys violence from adults (OR, 8.8) was associated most strongly with DSH, whereas among girls sexual abuse (OR, 4.3) was the most robust predictor. DSHs reported more conflicts with parents, less family support and involvement, and more peer problems than non-DSHs, and DHS girls had more difficulties in these relationships than DHS boys. Only small ethnic differences were found.

Conclusion:

Adolescent DSHs reported twice as many concurrent adversities as non-DSHs, sexual abuse and violence were strongly related to DSH. Ethnic and gender differences in risk factors were found. Clinicians should inquire about traumatic experiences such as sexual and physical abuses, and should have a family, peer, and gender perspective in their work.
A Generalized Randomized Response Model
Authors: Singh Housila P. , Gorey Swarangi M.
Published: February 2018

In this paper we have suggested a generalized version of the Gjestvang and Singh (2006) model and have studied its properties. We have shown that the randomized response models due to Warner (1965), Mangat and Singh (1990), Mangat (1994) and Gjestvang and Singh (2006) are members of the proposed RR model. The conditions are obtained in which the suggested RR model is more efficient than the Warner (1965) model, Mangat and Singh (1990) model and Mangat (1994) model and Gjestvang and Singh (2006) model. A numerical illustration is given in support of the present study.
Mejores prácticas de auditoría interna para la gestión y el control de activos fijos
Authors: Gallego Arango Damaris , Villa Romero María , Zapata Calle Sandra
Published: February 2018

La ausencia de lineamientos y directrices para aplicar metodologías o prácticas de auditoria interna, acordes con la gestión y control de activos fijos, ha generado que los profesionales dedicados a su evaluación tengan libre disposición para definir procedimientos sin el apoyo de mejores prácticas.Esta investigación pretende dar a conocer las etapas que normalmente comprenden los activos fijos, los principales riesgos a los que se exponen las empresas y concluir con una propuesta de las prácticas líderes para la gestión y control, aplicables a todo tipo de empresas. Para el desarrollo de este trabajo, se realizaron entrevistas a expertos en auditoría y control interno, con este insumo se pudo concluir qué prácticas son las más adecuadas en cada una de las fases de los activos fijos, dependiendo incluso del tamaño de la organización.
Cultural and practical aspects of halal slaughtering in food production
Authors: BENZERTIHA ABDELBASSET , KIEROŃCZYK BARTOSZ , RAWSKI MATEUSZ , JÓZEFIAK AGATA , MAZURKIEWICZ JAN , JÓZEFIAK DAMIAN , MESSIKH MOHAMMED SALAH , ŚWIĄTKIEWICZ SYLWESTER
Published: February 2018

The rise in the Muslim population with the economic disability of Muslim countries have made the term halal common all around the world. The lack of information about halal in non-Muslim countries has made the status of imported halal products uncertain for Muslim countries. Halal meat is the most critical product due to the precise rules and requirements needed. In this review, we attempt to explain the types of halal and haram animals as well as the requirements needed for the allowed animals to be halal. Muslims must follow the halal rules mentioned in the Quran, Sunna and doctrines (scholars). The halal animals have been categorized with special and essential slaughtering requirements. However, the slaughtering should be performed in accordance with Islamic rules. The application of animal stunning has been allowed in some Islamic countries since the animal is still alive at the time of slaughtering with respect to animal welfare. Moreover, halal meat loses its halalness as soon as it becomes contaminated with najis (unclean). Indeed, it is important to understand the requirements of halal food, which cover religious aspects..
Effect of nutrition on reproductive efficiency of dairy animals
Authors: IBTISHAM FAHAR , NAWAB AAMIR , LI GUANGHUI , XIAO MEI , AN LILONG , NASEER GHAZANFAR
Published: February 2018

Nutrition plays a key role in the maintenance of animal reproductive performance. Reduced reproductive efficiency can decrease the profitability of dairy production by increasing days open, calving interval, the number of services per conception, culling rate, and veterinary services. Nutritional requirements increase rapidly with milk production after calving, but an improper diet plan could result in a negative energy balance (NEB). NEB delays the time of first ovulation through uncoupled hormones production. A diet high in fat could prevent the NEB state by increasing the energy status of animals. Protein supplementation supports high production but can also have severe effects on the reproductive performance of the animal. Deficiency of minerals can also alter the reproductive performance of the animal. This article has generally focused on the effects of various nutrients on reproductive efficiency of dairy cattle. .
Retinol, α-tocopherol and vitamin D3 in White MuscleDisease
Authors: MERT HANDAN , YİLDİRİM SERKAN , YORUK IBRAHİM HAKKİ , IRAK KİVANC , COMBA BAHAT , MERT NİHAT , AYSİN NESRULLAH , COMBA ARZU
Published: February 2018

Vitamins are essential for the health of all living organisms. Vitamins E, A, D and K are known as fat-soluble vitamins, and deprivation of vitamin E causes various disorders, especially in the reproduction and cardiovascular systems and in muscle functions. Vitamin A, on the other hand, has roles in various biological functions – like eyesight – and the growth, reproduction and differentiation of epithelial cells. Vitamin A deficiency leads to the keratinization of the epithelium, and disorders related to the metaplasies of the genital and genitourinary systems. Conversely, vitamin D is defined as a pro-hormone and is responsible for Cahomeostasis, and thus indirectly affects the bone metabolism, bone structure, and cellular and neural functions of Ca. White muscle disease (WMD) can occur in newborn lambs, but is more commonly seen in lambs of up to 3 months of age. In this study, 30 lambs of 3 to 50-days-old from different flocks diagnosed with White Muscle Disease (WMD) were selected as research material, while the control group consisted of 8 healthy lambs. With the aim of clarifying the cause of WMD, serum fat-soluble vitamins, retinol, α-tocopherol and vitamin D3 levels were determined in 16 lambs. Gluteal and heart musclet issue samples also were taken from 30 lambs with WMD. The vitamin levels of the samples were analysed by HPLC. The levels of serum α-tocopherol, retinols, and vitamin D3 were foundto be low in the diseased animals, but only retinol (p<0.001) and α-tocopherol (p<0.0011) level differences were statistically relevant. Macroscopically, Zenker’s necrosis was determined in the heart muscles of 17 lambs, and in the gluteal and chest muscles of 6 lambs. 7 lambs displayed necrosis in both their heart and in gluteal muscles. The samples were analyzed microscopically to reach similar findings: swollen homogeneous pink muscles, pycnotic nuclei, and hyperaemic and haemorrhagic blood vessels in gluteal, chest and heart muscles. Hyaline degeneration and Zenker's necrosis, dystrophic regions in necrotic areas, cc was detected as a severe disease in lambs at an early stage of life with advanced degeneration in different muscle tissues. Deficiency of fat-soluble vitamins was also detected in the sick animals. Control group lambs had higher levels of α tocopherol and retinol (p<0.001) compared to the sick lambs. .
Application of Evolutionary Algorithms for Harmonic Profile Optimization in Symmetric Multilevel Inverter used in Medical Electronic Equipments
Authors: Menaka S. , Muralidharan S.
Published: February 2018

Background:

Inverters are finding applications in electrical field where conversion
from Direct Current (DC) to Alternate Current (AC) has become an inevitable option. The need of
Multi Level Inverter (MLI) is to provide a high output power from medium voltage source. High
power quality is the very basic important requirement for MLI used in medical electronic equipment.
Harmonic elimination in MLI is a challenging one and is solved by optimum switching of
power electronic switches present in the MLI topology.

Methods:

Several control strategies have been proposed for harmonic elimination in multilevel
inverters. Newton-Raphson method is the conventional and iterative based method to obtain optimum
switching angle to minimize the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD). But it requires an initial
guess of switching angles which is very close to the exact solution. To overcome this, harmonic
elimination is converted into an optimization task and is solved by using evolutionary algorithms
such as Genetic Algorithms (GA) and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO). GA and PSO offer optimum
switching angles to minimize THD and used to increase the robustness of the system.

Results:

The performance of proposed symmetric 21 level multilevel inverter with GA and PSO
techniques are analysed and the objective of minimum THD is obtained by using MATLABSIMULINK
software.In experimental setup, FPGA controller has been used to generate the Pulse
Width Modulation (PWM) control signals according to the proposed soft computing based switching
strategy. The experimental result is used to verify the ability of the proposed system for the
generation of desired output voltage with minimum THD.

Conclusion:

The proposed symmetric MLI with evolutionary algorithm based switching is a good
choice for medical electronic equipment used in hospital to obtain quality power with minimum
THD.
Propiedades fisicoquímicas en frutos de siete variedades de fresa (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.) durante su maduración
Authors: Fischer Gerhard , López-Valencia David , Sánchez-Gómez Manuel , Acuña-Caita John Fabio
Published: February 2018

El mercado de la fresa en Cundinamarca (Colombia) se rige por el tamaño del fruto, sin tener en cuenta el estado de maduración y calidad nutricional del mismo. Por esta razón, se determinaron las diferencias fisicoquímicas en frutos de siete variedades de fresa (Albion, Dulce Anna, Lucia, Monterey, Ruby June, Sabrina y Ventana) cultivadas en el municipio de Sibaté, segundo productor de Cundinamarca. Se analizaron frutos recolectados de un predio productivo con condiciones homogéneas de manejo, en seis estados de madurez determinados por su grado de pigmentación roja (0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5) de acuerdo a la Norma Colombiana NTC 4103. Se evaluó el peso fresco, tamaño, color, firmeza, solidos solubles totales (SST), acidez total titulable (ATT), índices de madurez y de respiración. En los estados 4, 2 y 3 los frutos desarrollaron su mayor tamaño y peso, destacándose la variedad Dulce Anna. Los valores más altos en el índice de color se encontraron en el estado de madurez 5, especialmente en la variedad Ventana, seguida de Albion, Ruby June y Sabrina. Los valores más altos de firmeza, en los estados 4 y 5, se observaron para Ventana y Sabrina. Las variedades Sabrina, Dulce Anna y Monterrey acumularon la mayor concentración de SST, mostrando las dos últimas la mejor relación de madurez. Las tasas de respiración aumentaron con la maduración, especialmente a partir del estados 3. Los resultados ofrecen un criterio de selección en el punto óptimo para consumo, acorde con la variedad y sus características más relevantes.
Usability, Acceptability, and Usefulness of an mHealth App for Diagnosing and Monitoring Patients With Breakthrough Cancer Pain (Preprint)
Authors: Boceta Jaime , Samper Daniel , de la Torre Alejandro , Sánchez-de la Rosa Rainel , González Gloria
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Breakthrough pain is a major problem and a source of distress in patients with cancer. We hypothesized that health care professionals may benefit from a real-time mobile app to assist in the diagnosis and monitoring of breakthrough cancer pain (BTcP).

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to test the usability, acceptability, and usefulness in real-world practice of the mobile App INES·DIO developed for the management of patients with BTcP.

METHODS

This study consisted of a survey of a multidisciplinary sample of 175 physicians who evaluated the mobile app after testing it with 4 patients with BTcP each (for a total of 700 patients). The digital profile of the physicians, use of the different resources contained in the app, usefulness of the resources, acceptability, usability, potential improvements, intention to use, and additional resources to add were recorded.

RESULTS

Of the 175 physicians, 96% (168/175) were working in public hospitals. They had an average of 12 (SD 7) years of experience in BTcP and almost all (174/175, 99.43%) had an active digital profile. The Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group and Karnofsky performance scales, the Visual Analogue Scale, and the Davies algorithm to diagnose BTcP were the most frequently used tools with patients and were assessed as very useful by more than 80% (140/175) of physicians. The majority (157/175, 90%) answered that App INES·DIO was well designed and 94% (165/175) would probably or very probably recommend it to other colleagues. More than two-thirds indicated that the report provided by the app was worth being included in patients’ clinical records. The most valued resource in the app was the recording of the number, duration, and intensity of pain flares each day and baseline pain control to enhance diagnosis of BTcP. Additional patient-oriented cancer pain educational content was suggested for inclusion in future versions of App INES·DIO.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that App INES·DIO is easy to use and useful for physicians to help diagnose and monitor breakthrough pain in patients with cancer. Participants suggested the implementation of additional educational content about breakthrough pain. They agreed on the importance of adding new clinical guidelines/protocols for the management of BTcP, improving their communication skills with patients, and introducing an evidence-based video platform that gathers new educational material on BTcP.
Factors Determining the Success and Failure of eHealth Interventions: Systematic Review of the Literature (Preprint)
Authors: Granja Conceição , Janssen Wouter , Johansen Monika Alise
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

eHealth has an enormous potential to improve healthcare cost, effectiveness, and quality of care. However, there seems to be a gap between the foreseen benefits of research and clinical reality.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to systematically review the factors influencing the outcome of eHealth interventions in terms of success and failure.

METHODS

We searched the PubMed database for original peer-reviewed studies on implemented eHealth tools that reported on the factors for the success or failure, or both, of the intervention. We conducted the systematic review by following the patient, intervention, comparison, and outcome framework, with 2 of the authors independently reviewing the abstract and full text of the articles. We collected data using standardized forms that reflected the categorization model used in the qualitative analysis of the outcomes reported in the included articles.

RESULTS

Among the 903 identified articles, a total of 221 studies complied with the inclusion criteria. The studies were heterogeneous by country, type of eHealth intervention, method of implementation, and reporting perspectives. The article frequency analysis did not show a significant discrepancy between the number of reports on failure (392/844, 46.5%) and on success (452/844, 53.6%). The qualitative analysis identified 27 categories that represented the factors for success or failure of eHealth interventions. A quantitative analysis of the results revealed the category quality of healthcare (n=55) as the most mentioned as contributing to the success of eHealth interventions, and the category costs (n=42) as the most mentioned as contributing to failure. For the category with the highest unique article frequency, workflow (n=51), we conducted a full-text review. The analysis of the 23 articles that met the inclusion criteria identified 6 barriers related to workflow: workload (n=12), role definition (n=7), undermining of face-to-face communication (n=6), workflow disruption (n=6), alignment with clinical processes (n=2), and staff turnover (n=1).

CONCLUSIONS

The reviewed literature suggested that, to increase the likelihood of success of eHealth interventions, future research must ensure a positive impact in the quality of care, with particular attention given to improved diagnosis, clinical management, and patient-centered care. There is a critical need to perform in-depth studies of the workflow(s) that the intervention will support and to perceive the clinical processes involved.
Health Care Apps Reported in Newspapers: Content Analysis (Preprint)
Authors: Al Bawab Abdel Qader , AlQahtani Fahad , McElnay James
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Newspapers are considered one of the most viewed and influential media sources in both the United Kingdom and United States. However, information about how newspapers portray health care apps to the readers has been lacking.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the reporting on health care apps in newspapers published in the United Kingdom and United States.

METHODS

The Nexis UK database was used to identify and select relevant articles. Systematic content analysis of the articles that met the inclusion criteria (articles of any format that contained reference to health care apps or medical apps) within the highest circulated newspapers in the United Kingdom and United States over a period of 10 years (2006-2015) was conducted. Interrater reliability of coding was established using a 10% sample of the chosen articles.

RESULTS

A total of 220 (151 UK and 69 US) relevant newspaper articles were retrieved. Health care apps were most frequently reported on in the Daily Mail and The Guardian (UK newspapers) and in the New York Times and the Washington Post (US newspapers). An exponential rise in published scientific articles (PubMed) on health care-related apps was noted during the study period. A total of 26.4% (58/220) and 19.1% (42/220) of the retrieved newspaper articles appeared in the features and main news sections, respectively. General information about health care apps was the main theme coved by the newspapers (45.9%, 101/220). Most of the articles represented a societal point of view (72.3%, 159/220). The main focus of the articles was on general health matters (48.2%, 106/220) and specific disease matters (36.8%, 81/220). Diabetes was the most frequently mentioned disease in the articles. A high proportion (91.4%, 201/220) of the articles mentioned benefits of using health care apps mainly for personalized care, whereas 24.1% (53/220) of the articles commented on related risks such as anxiety and confidentiality issues. Almost half (45.9%, 101/220) of the articles mentioned potential facilitators to the use of apps; less than 10% (16/220) discussed barriers. Most of the articles (83.6%, 184/220) were judged as having balanced judgment on the present topic and more than half (60.0%, 132/220) of the articles were judged to be of generally low quality.

CONCLUSIONS

Health care apps were not widely reported in newspaper articles in the United Kingdom and United States over the study period; however, there appeared to be much more recent interest. Characteristically, the articles focused more frequently on societal impact and on general health rather than on disease-specific apps.
Person-Centered Interactive Self-Management Support in Primary Health Care for People with Type 2 Diabetes: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Öberg Ulrika , Isaksson Ulf , Jutterström Lena , Orre Carljohan , Hörnsten Åsa
Published: February 2018

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing as the population ages. The development of new medical treatments is promising and important, but the basic treatment remains self-management, even if adherence to lifestyle advice is low. Electronic health (eHealth) or mHealth interventions can increase empowerment among people living with T2D and may compensate for the lack of professional resources and geographical distances. The interactive self-management support (iSMS) project aims at including digital tools to support people living with T2D in their self-management and facilitating their interaction with diabetes specialist nurses (DSNs). This protocol outlines a study with the purpose of developing and evaluating an intervention where people living with T2D can increase self-efficacy and empowerment through digital self-monitoring and interaction with DSNs.

OBJECTIVE

To develop and evaluate a person-centered iSMS intervention in primary health care for people with T2D in addition to their usual diabetes care.

METHODS

This study is a 12-month, 3-armed, nonblinded randomized controlled trial (RCT), which will be conducted in 6 primary health care centers (HCCs) in northern Sweden. Eligible participants will be randomized to either an intervention group (n=46), a control group (n=46), or an external group (n=46) for comparison. The intervention group will receive the mobile app, and the control group will receive a minimal intervention (diabetes brochure) and the usual standard of care. Changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) will be the primary outcome measure.

RESULTS

This trial is currently open for recruitment. The first results are expected to be submitted for publication in Autumn 2019.

CONCLUSIONS

This study, with its focus on iSMS, will provide insights regarding suitable ways to promote and develop a person-centered intervention. If successful, the intervention has the potential to become a model for the provision of self-management support to people with T2D.
Costos Hospitalarios Complicaciones Intrahospitalarias en Personas Adultas Mayores de 65 años en el Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, EsSalud año 2006.
Authors: Díaz Vasquez Carmen Rosa
Published: February 2018

En el 2006 se registraron un total de 4446 complicaciones intrahospitalarias, de los cuales 2916 son complicaciones infecciosas con un porcentaje de 65.6% y complicaciones no infecciosas 1530 con un 34.4%. Las infecciones de vías urinarias, neumonía y de heridas quirúrgicas fueron las más frecuentes en los servicios de adultos. La mayoría de los pacientes presentaron un sólo proceso infeccioso y E. coli, Klebsiella y Enterobacter spp. fueron los microorganismos más frecuentemente aislados.El costo promedio de una neumonía es de S/. 3993.79, de una Infección del Tracto Urinario (ITU) de S/. 2092.66, parala Infeccióndel Torrente Sanguíneo (ITS) es S/. 7811.88 y para Infección de Sitio Quirúrgico (ISQ) S/. 3581.15. El costo directo total de la atención para estas cuatro Infecciones Intrahospitalarias.