bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Values Versus Environmental Knowledge as Triggers of a Process of Activation of Personal Norms for Eco-Driving
Authors: Ünal Ayça Berfu , Steg Linda , Gorsira Madelijne
Published: September 2017

Eco-driving can be an effective strategy to save fuel and reduce CO2 emissions on the road. In the current study, we reason that personal norms are important predictors of eco-driving, and that they are activated when people are aware of environmental problems caused by behavior (problem awareness) and believe that they can contribute to the solution of the problem by changing behavior (outcome efficacy). Extending previous research, we aim at testing two antecedents of this norm activation process: values and environmental knowledge. Results revealed that in comparison with knowledge, values—in particular biospheric values—were strongly associated with the intention to eco-drive by being highly related to awareness of problems caused by car use, which in turn was associated with stronger outcome efficacy beliefs and personal norms for eco-driving. Findings indicate that values are more likely to be a motivational force for pro-environmental intentions than is environmental knowledge.
Book Review: Debtoru Chatterjee, Presidential Discretion
Authors: Jain S.K.
Published: September 2017

Debtoru Chatterjee, Presidential Discretion. New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 2016, 313 pp. ₹995.
Eliciting Negative Affects Using Film Clips and Real-Life Methods
Authors: Cabral João Carlos Centurion , Tavares Patrice de Souza , Weydmann Gibson Juliano , das Neves Vera Torres , de Almeida Rosa Maria Martins
Published: September 2017

Although audio-visual stimuli are among the most frequently used methods to elicit emotional reactions in experimental conditions, real-life manipulations have increasingly been used in different countries. However, the applicability of such protocols has not yet been tested in Brazilian Portuguese speakers. Thus, we conducted two experiments to investigate the effectiveness of both methods. In the first experiment, we used film clips to induce negative emotions (i.e., anger, fear, or sadness) or an emotionally neutral condition in 321 undergraduate students. After watching one of the online videos, volunteers completed an emotional assessment. As expected, there were significant differences in all groups. Our results corroborate the relatively discrete patterns in emotion elicitation using films. In the second experiment, anger was elicited in 18 male undergraduates through a hostile social interaction with a confederate and measured by the corrugator muscle activity and cortisol responses. Indeed, there was an increase in corrugator activity in the group exposed to anger induction, even after a few minutes from the end of the experimental manipulation. Implications for experiments on the negative emotions are discussed.
Durability of vapor-permeable waterproof textile materials used in sailing protective apparel
Authors: Troynikov Olga , Nawaz Nazia , Watson Chris
Published: September 2017

Vapor-permeable waterproof textiles (VPWTs) are used in sailing apparel to protect wearers from weather and water exposure. They must also withstand knocks and abrasion. Failure of fabric waterproofing results in water intrusion, reduced thermal protection and potentially hypothermia. There are no standard methods for testing the waterproof durability of fabrics in these conditions.

To evaluate waterproofing durability, we simulated high levels of wear on leading commercially available VPWT assemblies through mechanical treatment in wet conditions. To compare fabrics on multiple performance characteristics, we developed a Total Durability Penalty index associated with leaks and ruptures, weighted by failure pressure.

The experiment revealed significant differences in VPWT deterioration under mechanical treatment. We determined that the mass per unit area and thickness of VPWT fabrics are positively correlated with pressure at leakage; that rupture is significantly and negatively associated with the mass per unit area and thickness of the inner and outer layers of fabric; and leakage pressure is positively correlated with the same parameters. These results show that it is important to consider wear conditions when assessing the long-term performance attributes of protective clothing assemblies.
Safe and Healthy Work Environment: A Study of Artisans of Indian Metalware Handicraft Industry
Authors: Dhingra Vaishali , Mudgal Rakesh K. , Dhingra Manish
Published: September 2017

Swami Vivekananda (2001 [1907]) said ‘with means alright, end must come’. To elaborate the saying of the great visionary, if the people working in an organization are happy and contented, it will have a positive bearing upon the output. The concept of quality of work life has drawn the interest of a number of scholars at various points of time in different kinds of environmental settings. The current study is based on one of the eight constructs proposed by Walton related to quality of work life ‘safe and healthy working conditions’ which include variables such as physical working conditions (cleanliness, lighting, temperature, ventilation), ergonomics, workplace safety and working hours. This construct indicates a safe and healthy work environment in the organization. The employers must ensure that the safety of the employees is reasonably taken care of. This can in turn reduce the costs related to employee injury such as medical care, sick leave and disability benefit costs. This construct of quality of work life consist of 15 measurable variables.
A study of outcomes of patients treated at a UK major trauma centre for moderate or severe injuries one to three years after injury
Authors: Spreadborough Stephen , Radford Kate , das Nair Roshan , Brooks Adam , Duffy Miriam
Published: September 2017

Objective:

To assess return to work outcomes of major trauma patients treated at a level 1 UK major trauma centre and evaluate factors associated with improved outcomes.

Design:

Cross-sectional cohort design.

Subjects:

In total, 99 patients at one, two or three years post-discharge from a Major Trauma Centre with an injury severity score above 9, in full-time work or education prior to injury, aged 18–70 and discharged between April 2012 and June 2015.

Main Measures:

Self-report questionnaire including the Trauma Outcome Profile, the Multiple Sclerosis Neuropsychological Screening questionnaire and questions pertaining to work and education.

Results:

Of the 99 patients in full-time work pre-injury, 65 made a complete return to work, 15 made an incomplete return to work and 19 did not return to work, where incomplete return to work was defined as working below 80% of previous working hours. In all, 25 participants scored below the cut-off point on physical disabilities, 46 below the cut-off point on mental functioning and 38 below the cut-off point on social interaction. Reduced anxiety and higher mental functioning were consistently associated with complete return to work.

Conclusion:

In all, 66% of patients with moderate to severe injuries made a complete return to work. A range of psycho-social, physical and functional health issues were persistent at long-term follow-up.
Clinical value of the VTIQ technology in the differential diagnosis of superficially enlarged lymph nodes
Authors: Ben Zhifei , Gao Shanshan , Wu Wenjing , Chen Saijun , Fu Shuping , Zhang Jianli , Chen Yunwen
Published: September 2017

Background

Lymph node enlargement is a common clinical finding in clinical practice with different treatment strategies.

Purpose

To investigate the application of Virtual Touch Image Quantification (VTIQ) to diagnose benign and malignant superficial enlarged lymph nodes.

Material and Methods

Between December 2015 and August 2016, 116 superficial enlarged lymph nodes were examined by VTIQ. Maximum (Vmax), minimum (Vmin), and average (Vmean) shear wave velocities (SWV) were obtained from the lymph nodes and from normal muscular tissues (Vn) located at the same level and within 5 mm from the target lymph node. The pathological results were used as the gold standard to evaluate VTIQ.

Results

All 116 patients underwent fine-needle aspiration biopsy for pathological examination. Forty patients had malignant lymph nodes and 76 patients had benign lymph nodes. Lymph node characteristics on B-mode ultrasound showed no differences between malignant and benign lymph nodes, but there were differences in VTIQ parameters (all P < 0.001). Compared with pathological diagnosis as the gold standard, the area under the ROC curves of Vmax, Vmin, and Vmean were 0.815, 0.746, and 0.795. The Vmax cutoff value to diagnose benign from malignant lymph nodes was 3.045 m/s. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were 70%, 78.9%, 63.6%, and 83.3%.

Conclusion

VTIQ has a clinical application in the differential diagnosis of superficial enlarged lymph nodes.
Demonstration of the effectiveness of U*-based design criteria on vehicle structural design
Authors: Wang Qingguo , Pejhan Khashayar , Telichev Igor , Wu Christine Qiong
Published: September 2017

A basic function of vehicle structures is bearing the load. To design high efficient vehicle structures, it is crucial to know how the applied forces are transferred in the structure. The U* index was introduced as the indicator of the main load path in the structure. U*-based design criteria were developed to promote the ability of the U* index theory for vehicle structural design. However, the effectiveness of these U*-based design criteria on improving the structural performance is still unknown. In this paper, an improved design of a vehicle component was proposed based on the U* governed design criteria. Compared to the original design, the weight of the modified structure is reduced by 10% while the maximum displacement and stress are declined by 5% and 26%, respectively. The paper proves that the application of the U* driven design criteria can effectively increase the structural performance.
Design method for a powertrain mounting system to decrease the vehicle key on/off vibrations
Authors: Wang Dao-Yong , Zhao Xue-Zhi , Shangguan Wen-Bin
Published: September 2017

Five dynamic response evaluation indices from the viewpoint of the powertrain mount system and the vehicle system during the vehicle key on/off periods (i.e. the engine start and stop) are proposed. By analysis using different methods to minimize the powertrain vibration, it was found that an increase in the mount system damping can decrease the vehicle key on and key off vibration. For this reason, in this paper a semi-active hydraulic damping strut is designed and made which can provide high damping for a mount system when the vehicle key on/off but switches to lower damping to isolate high-frequency vibrations under normal conditions. The calculated longitudinal acceleration of the powertrain, the jerk of the powertrain, the dynamic force of the mount and the vibration dose value for a vehicle with the semi-active hydraulic damping strut and without the semi-active hydraulic damping strut are compared on the basis of the excitation force identified for the powertrain using a 13-degree-of-freedom vehicle model. Experiments were carried out, and the results show that the use of the semi-active hydraulic damping strut can decrease the engine start and stop vibrations to a large extent. Finally, the experimental results are compared with the calculated values from the 13-degree-of-freedom vehicle model.
Dr. Zakir Husain on Education and Language
Authors: Kumar Deepak , Radha Gayathri Ch.
Published: September 2017

Dr. Zakir Husain is known as a self-less nationalist leader and also as an educationist par excellence. Taking a cue from his educational ideas like the Nai Talim, this article brings into focus his views on the medium-conundrum.

Dr. Husain was very clear about the role of Indian languages and the relevance of mother tongue. He was secular to the core and from this came his support for Hindustani which was understood by both the Hindus and Muslims.

Like his illustrious contemporary Dr. Ambedkar, he also thought of education as a potent tool for social justice and empowerment. His views deserve a recapitulation.
Advancing the Science of Qualitative Research to Promote Health Equity
Authors: Griffith Derek M. , Shelton Rachel C. , Kegler Michelle
Published: September 2017

Qualitative methods have long been a part of health education research, but how qualitative approaches advance health equity has not been well described. Qualitative research is an increasingly important methodologic tool to use in efforts to understand, inform, and advance health equity. Qualitative research provides critical insight into the subjective meaning and context of health that can be essential for understanding where and how to intervene to inform health equity research and practice. We describe the larger context for this special theme issue of Health Education & Behavior, provide brief overviews of the 15 articles that comprise the issue, and discuss the promise of qualitative research that seeks to contextualize and illuminate answers to research questions in efforts to promote health equity. We highlight the critical role that qualitative research can play in considering and incorporating a diverse array of contextual information that is difficult to capture in quantitative research.
Patient Preferences Regarding Surgical Interventions for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Moorman Claude T , Kirwan Tom , Share Jennifer , Vannabouathong Christopher
Published: September 2017

Surgical interventions for knee osteoarthritis (OA) have markedly different procedure attributes and may have dramatic differences in patient desirability. A total of 323 patients with knee OA were included in a dual response, choice-based conjoint analysis to identify the relative preference of 9 different procedure attributes. A model was also developed to simulate how patients might respond if presented with the real-world knee OA procedures, based on conservative assumptions regarding their attributes. The “amount of cutting and removal of the existing bone” required for a procedure had the highest preference score, indicating that these patients considered it the most important attribute. More specifically, a procedure that requires the least amount of bone cutting or removal would be expected to be the most preferred surgical alternative. The model also suggested that patients who are younger and report the highest pain levels and greatest functional limitations would be more likely to opt for surgical intervention.
Synergistic effects of surface strengthening and surface micro-texture on aviation spherical plain bearing tribological properties
Authors: Yuan Zewei , Qin Yue , Deng Chunli , Zheng Peng
Published: September 2017

With an increase in extreme and complex work conditions in the fields of aircraft industry and high-speed train, single surface strengthening or single surface machining is not satisfactory with repeated requests of spherical plain bearings, which results in serious wear. Therefore, in this paper, a compound method of ultrasonic surface rolling process and surface texture was proposed on the basis of investigating the wear mechanism to meet the tribological property requirements of spherical plain bearings. The theoretical and experimental results show that low micro-hardness and low shear strength of surface material, rough surface, and poor lubrication are the important factors contributing to the wear of spherical plain bearings. The surface roughness Ra and Rz of processed spherical plain bearings are reduced to 0.02 µm and 0.14 µm from 0.35 µm and 2.1 µm, respectively, and the micro-hardness of surface material is increased by about 20%. The double-sine micro-textures with the width of 120 µm and the depth of 20 µm produced by laser machine, together with the circular groove, provide satisfactory lubrication for the spherical plain bearings. Finally, the wear resistance properties of spherical plain bearings were increased by more than 55%. The proposed synergistic methods have great advantages in improving the tribological properties of key fundamental components, especially for spherical plain bearings.
New modes of policy legitimation in education: (Mis)using comparative data to effectuate assessment reform
Authors: Tveit Sverre , Lundahl Christian
Published: September 2017

Identifying three modes of policy legitimation in education, illustrated by shifts in Swedish educational assessment and grading policies over the past decades, the paper demonstrates significant trends with regard to national governments’ policymaking and borrowing. We observe a shift away from collaboracy – defined as policy legitimation located in partnerships and networks of stakeholders, researchers and other experts – towards more use of supranational agencies (called agency), such as the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, the European Union and associated networks, as well as the use of individual consultants and private enterprises (called consultancy) to legitimate policy change. Given their political and high-stakes character for stakeholders, assessment and grading policies are suitable areas for investigating strategies and trends for policy legitimation in education. The European Union-affiliated Eurydice network synthesises policy descriptions for the European countries in an online database that is widely used by policymakers. Analysing Eurydice data for assessment and grading policies, the paper discusses functional equivalence of grading policies and validity problems related to the comparison of such policy information. Illuminating the roles of the Swedish Government and a consultant in reviewing and recommending grading policies, the paper discusses new ‘fast policy’ modes of policy legitimation in which comparative data is used to effectuate assessment reform.
Hospital readmissions after elective lower extremity vascular procedures
Authors: Vogel Todd R , Smith Jamie B , Kruse Robin L
Published: September 2017

Background

This study evaluated risk factors associated with 30-day readmission after open and endovascular lower extremity revascularization.

Methods

Patients admitted with peripheral artery disease and lower extremity procedures were selected from national electronic medical record data, Cerner Health Facts® (2008–2014). Thirty-day readmission was determined. Logistic regression models identified characteristics independently associated with readmission.

Results

There were 2781 open and 2611 endovascular procedures. Readmission was 10.9% (9.6% open versus 12.3% endovascular, p<.0001). Greater disease severity was associated with readmission for both groups. Readmission factors for lower extremity bypass: blood transfusions (OR 2.25, 95% CI 1.62–3.13), hyponatremia (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.15–2.57), heart failure (OR 1.57, 95% CI 1.07–2.29), bronchodilators (OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.13–2.00), black race (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.03–1.99), and hypokalemia (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.20–0.95). Readmission factors for endovascular procedures: vasodilators (OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.22–2.16), end-stage renal disease (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.02–2.01), fluid and electrolyte disorders (OR 1.44, 95% CI 1.00–2.06), hypertension (OR 1.33, 95% CI 0.99–1.76), coronary artery disease (OR 1.31, 95% CI 1.02–1.67), and diuretics (OR 1.30, 95% CI 1.01–1.70).

Conclusions

Readmission after lower extremity revascularization is associated with disease severity for both procedures. Factors associated with readmission following lower extremity bypass included heart failure, transfusions, hyponatremia, black race, and bronchodilator use. Risk factors for endovascular readmissions were often chronic conditions including coronary artery disease, kidney disease, hypertension, and hypertensive medications. Awareness of risk factors may help providers identify high-risk patients who may benefit from increased surveillance and programs to lower readmission.
How conflict news comes into being: Reconstructing ‘reality’ through telling stories
Authors: Hoxha Abit , Hanitzsch Thomas
Published: September 2017

Based on interviews with 215 conflict journalists and 315 reconstructed articles, this article explores the way conflict coverage comes into being. The study used retrospective reconstruction to investigate the genesis of news through the journalists’ recollections of decisions and considerations made during the process of news production. The analysis specifically focused on story ideation, story narration and story presentation in the context of coverage about the Israeli–Palestinian conflict and the civil war in Syria, as well as about Kosovo, Macedonia, Burundi and the DRC. The study found that, when invited to speak about their jobs, many conflict journalists cling to a professional narrative suggesting that they are reporting ‘just the facts’ and that it is the ‘reality’ that tells the story. The story reconstructions demonstrate, however, that journalists deliver an intellectual reconstruction of ‘reality’ by actualizing the factual evidence that speaks best to the central narrative of a story and that best ‘exemplifies’ what they think has ‘really’ happened. Furthermore, journalists’ habitus of routinely digesting social media and leading news outlets explains why conflict coverage is often so self-referential.
Deep Venous Thrombosis Prophylaxis in Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstructive Surgery: What Is the Current State of Practice?
Authors: Keller Robert A. , Moutzouros Vasilios , Dines Joshua S. , Bush-Joseph Charles A. , Limpisvasti Orr
Published: September 2017

Background:

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a significant perioperative risk with many common orthopaedic procedures. Currently, there is no standardized recommendation for the use of VTE prophylaxis during anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. This study sought to evaluate the current prophylactic practices of fellowship-trained sports medicine orthopaedic surgeons in the United States.

Hypothesis:

Very few surgeons use perioperative VTE prophylaxis for ACL reconstructive surgery.

Study Design:

Survey.

Methods:

Surveys were emailed to the alumni networks of 4 large ACGME-accredited sports medicine fellowship programs. Questions were focused on their current use of chemical and nonchemical VTE prophylaxis.

Results:

Surveys were completed by 142 surgeons in the United States, yielding a response rate of 32%. Of those who responded, 50.7% stated that they routinely use chemical prophylaxis, with 95.5% of those using aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid [ASA]). There was no standardized dosing protocol, with respondents using ASA 325 mg once (46%) or twice daily (26%) or ASA 81 mg once (18%) or twice (10%) daily. The most common reason for not including chemical prophylaxis within the reconstruction procedure was that it is unnecessary given the low risk of VTE. Physicians also based their prophylaxis regimen more on their own clinical experience than concern for litigation.

Conclusion:

Half of all sports medicine fellowship–trained surgeons surveyed routinely use chemical VTE prophylaxis after ACL reconstruction, with more than 90% of those using ASA. Of those using ASA, there was no prevailing dosing protocol. For those not using chemical prophylaxis, the most important reason was that it was felt to be unnecessary due to the risks outweighing the benefits. Those who do not regularly use chemical prophylaxis would be willing to, however, if a patient had a personal or family history of clotting disorder or is currently on birth control. Additionally, clinical experience was the primary driver for a current prophylaxis protocol.

Clinical Relevance:

This survey study evaluating the use of VTE prophylaxis with ACL reconstruction lends clinical insight to the current practice of a large, geographically diverse group of fellowship-trained sports medicine orthopaedic surgeons in the United States.
Bringing directives on procedural rights of the EU to police stations
Authors: Mols Violet
Published: September 2017

Although national laws implementing Directive 2013/48/EU on the right of access to a lawyer provide a legal framework, the protection of the rights of suspects must be carried out by defence lawyers in their day-to-day practice. National legal frameworks may be internally inconsistent or may fall short of European Union requirements. Research shows that, for these or other reasons, defence counsels may encounter a variety of difficulties in fulfilling their role at police interviews, which often leads them to adopt a passive approach. An approach focused on adherence to new regulations appears insufficient to prepare lawyers for this role. It is essential that lawyers are given practical tools to effectively fulfil their role, especially where regulations do not provide any guidance. To this end, a new practical training programme has been developed and piloted in four countries, with these initial experiments providing promising results.
Distribution of feline AB blood types: a review of frequencies and its implications in the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: Vieira Sandrina M , Ferreira Rui R F , de Matos Augusto JF , Cardoso Inês M , Graça Rita M C , Soares Ana RPB , Blasi-Brugué Carles , Sánchez Ignacio M , Gopegui Rafael R
Published: September 2017

Objectives

The objective of this study was to document the prevalence of feline blood types in the Iberian Peninsula and to determine the potential risk of incompatibility-related transfusion reactions in unmatched transfusions and the potential risk of neonatal isoerythrolysis (NI) in kittens born to parents of unknown blood type.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained from blood donors of the Animal Blood Bank (BSA-Banco de Sangue Animal). Blood typing was performed using a card method (RapidVet-H Feline Blood Typing; MDS).

Results

The studied population comprised 1070 purebred and non-purebred cats from Portugal and Spain aged between 1 and 8 years. Overall, frequencies of blood types A and B were 96.5% and 3.5%, respectively. No AB cats were found. Based on these data, the potential risks of NI and transfusion reactions in unmatched transfusions were calculated to be 6.8% and 2.8%, respectively.

Conclusions and relevance

Unlike previous studies, no type AB cats were found in this study. Although the calculated potential risks of transfusion reaction in unmatched transfusions and neonatal isoerythrolysis were low, blood typing prior to blood transfusion and blood typing of cats for breeding purposes are highly recommended.
Speaking to the Self: How Motivating Language Links With Self-Leadership
Authors: Mayfield Jacqueline , Mayfield Milton , Neck Christopher P.
Published: September 2017

This study investigates the relationships between the external influence of leader motivating language (ML), each of the major dimensions of self-leadership (SL)—behavioral strategies, constructive thoughts strategies, and natural rewards strategies—and their respective links with the outcomes of employee job satisfaction, performance, and intent-to-stay, using a partial least squares structural equation model. In addition, we look at the direct relationships between ML and SL with the same outcomes in separate analyses. Based on a large, diverse sample, results suggest that ML in conjunction with SL has strong, positive relationships with employee job satisfaction, performance, and intent-to-stay. Furthermore, a partially mediated model of ML affecting SL shows positive links with all three aspects of SL and the outcome variables of performance, job satisfaction, and intent-to-stay. For the SL dimensions, behavioral strategies were positively and significantly linked with job satisfaction; natural rewards strategies were positively and significantly related to job satisfaction, intent-to-stay, and job performance; and constructive thoughts strategies were significantly and positively associated with job satisfaction and intent-to-stay. These findings validate previous research and uncover new knowledge about ML and SL in organizational context.
Medicine, neurosciences and interdisciplinarity
Authors: Campagna Maurice
Published: September 2017

In terms of fundamental, universal scientific progress in the area of “hard sciences,” the past century was the one of relativity, quantum mechanics, and solid state/surface physics, whereas the 21st century prospects a focus on genomics/life/brain sciences, computer sciences/artificial intelligence, climate, and extraplanetary research. Among these, neurosciences represent a meta-plane, where new tools and insights provide key contributions to revolutionizing our current understandings. Increasingly, we move toward a quantitative description of various neural phenomena as well as to a new understanding of the nervous system and brain organization/functioning in particular. All this is strongly influencing the way we see the world. From this process, finally yet importantly, we derive large benefits for the cure of diseases as well as the management of an aging society.
Advanced intraoperative imaging
Authors: Raabe Andreas , Fichtner Jens , Gralla Jan
Published: September 2017

There are several unique features of the concept of advanced intraoperative imaging modalities with CT (computed tomography), MRI (magnet resonance imaging) and DSA (digital substraction angiography) inaugurated in one operating tract. For the first time, there is the opportunity to switch from postoperative to intraoperative imaging – when the surgeon can not only check the result of surgery but improve it – but in general, that is, for all specialties, at least theoretically. Intraoperative imaging is a broad term with many technologies already in routine use today, such as image intensifier, ultrasound, fluorescence technologies, and soon. Using intra-operative CT, MRI, and DSA is not indisputable. Does the benefit justify such immense costs, both in building and in maintenance? To evaluate the clinical benefit and possible drawbacks of these technologies and if there's a substantial benefit for the patients. Also, this is a review of literature to evaluate the evidence and clinical impact of advanced intraoperative imaging in neurosurgery. There is one prospective randomized trial showing that intraoperative MRI increases the extent of resection. In spine surgery, there are several randomized trials showing that pedicle screws are inserted more accurately when image guidance is used. However, there is no RCT comparing navigation with intraoperative CT-updated navigation. Several prospective studies are showing that intraoperative DSA is able to identify vascular remnants or vessel occlusions in case of aneurysm-, arteriovenous malformation-and arteriovenous fistula-surgery. A fair comparison of the benefit of these new technologies must take into consideration that other methods of intraoperative imaging or image guidance already exist. Hence, there are some patients in whom the use of the more advanced technologies makes a personal, individual difference that may affect quality of life and survival. We have to differentiate between (1) the best diagnostic procedure and (2) the term “standard of care.” Advanced intraoperative imaging is a gold standard in terms of imaging but not a standard of care.
3D traveltime computation for quasi-P-wave in orthorhombic media using dynamic programming
Authors: Hu Jiangtao , Cao Junxing , Wang Huazhong , Liu Shaoyong , Wang Xingjian
Published: September 2017

A fractured area, such as a fault area, usually induces orthorhombic anisotropy. Ignoring orthorhombic anisotropy may degrade the subsurface image by creating a well mistie and blurring the image. Traveltime computation is essential for many processing techniques, such as depth imaging and tomography. Solving the ray-tracing system and eikonal equation are two popular methods for traveltime computation in isotropic media. However, because the ray-tracing system becomes complex and the eikonal equation becomes highly nonlinear, their applications in orthorhombic media become complex. We have developed an alternative 3D traveltime computation method in orthorhombic media based on dynamic programming. To avoid solving the complex ray-tracing system and nonlinear eikonal equation, it adopts an explicitly expressed group velocity from the moveout approximation to describe the propagation of the wavepath and computes the traveltime by Fermat’s principle. Similar to depth extrapolation, it computes the traveltime from one depth to the next depth and does not suffer from a shadow zone. Besides, three strategies of traveltime computation are proposed to deal with different geologic scenarios. Because classic dynamic programming (i.e., the first strategy) computes all possible wavepaths (i.e., 24 wavepaths) across one spatial location, it may be computationally intensive. Based on the idea of wavefield decomposition (e.g., upgoing and downgoing), the second and third strategies simplify the traveltime computation and reduce the computational cost. Numerical examples on the vertical and tilted orthorhombic models indicate that the traveltime contour obtained by our method matches well with the wavefront extrapolated from the wave equation. Our method can be applied in depth imaging and tomography.
Substituent Effect on the Photochemical and Photophysical Properties of 4,4′-Distyrylbiphenyl Derivatives
Authors: Sakurai Hiroya , Arai Tatsuo
Published: September 2017

Photochemical properties of 4,4′-distyrylbiphenyl (DSBP) derivatives have been studied. While the introduction of methoxy groups at meta-positions does not influence the photoisomerization of DSBP, the introduction of methyl substituents at the biphenyl moiety (MDSBP) changed the photoisomerization from one-way cis-to-trans photoisomerization for DSBP to cis–trans mutual photoisomerization for MDSBP.
EFFICIENCY OF TECHNOLOGICAL PROCESS OF FORESTRY AND DEGREE EFFECTS OF TECHNOLOGICAL AND NATURAL FACTORS
Authors: Гарус Иван , Garus Ivan , Янь Шуфан , Yan' Shufan
Published: September 2017

When implementing the technological process in the forest for logging operations, various factors influence, as well as taxation indicators such as (average diameter, height of the stand, reserve per hectare, availability of growth, completeness, etc.), natural climatic factors (Soil type carrying capacity of soils, depth of snow cover, etc.), degree of operator training, etc. One of the main tasks of rational justification of the technological process of cutting areas development is to find and combine controlled factors, at which performance indicators would be extreme. The most suitable variant of the technological development of the cutting area assumes what should be the intensity of logging, the layout of the cutting area, the number of loading points, and the productivity of harvesting machines. This task will be solved taking into account the influence of logging equipment and technology on the forest environment. The state of the stand left for growing after selective felling and its further development depends on the machine systems used in logging operations. The most important factor in the development of felling areas is the degree of intensity of felling. Since the quality of logging operations will depend on the method of cutting in the development of the cutting area (from the point of view of the impact on the natural environment, the soil cover, the left part of the stand, the adolescent).
Improvement of Efficiency of Operation of Forest-Motor Vehicles Based by the Device for Controlling the Swing Axle of the Trailer
Authors: Попиков Петр , Popikov P. , Белозоров Виктор , Belozorov V. , Меняйлов Константин , Menyaylov K.
Published: September 2017

The concept of systemic design of forest machines in the new economic conditions is proposed in the article. The main provisions of the choice of a mechanism for controlling the trailer of a road train on the basis of a technical and economic comparison of options are given. The main characteristics of the management of the road train and the efficiency of the technological process of transportation are determined. The proposed work deals with the issues of controllability of vehicles, which is of considerable interest for the purpose of using such equipment for forest machines, which would provide movement over a different reference surface (snow, sand, marsh etc). It is proposed to improve the electropneumatic design of the trailer drive, taking into account the numerous and changing factors. The analysis of timber car trailer constructions is given. The advantages and disadvantages of wood transportation by multi-tier road train are considered. The main types of road sections. The article analyzes the factors influencing the operational condition of roads. The road junctions are the places where the road accident most often occurs. The probability of ensuring reliability of functioning of separate elements of the highway and also road in general in time of close conditions of operation with technical or economic advantages in comparison with traditional decisions is considered. A graph is presented for determining the speed of the road train according to the proposed method for various conditions and factors. The method of finding the transfer functions of a complex multi-mass mechanical system "VAD" is proposed. The economic efficiency of the truck fleet is determined by the specific costs of transportation of timber, representing the ratio of the sums of costs.
The Development of Agricultural Enterprise of the Voronezh Region Under Sanctions: Achievements and Directions for the Future
Authors: Гапонова С. , Gaponova S. , Солодовникова Марина , Solodovnikova Marina , Новичихина Наталия , Novichihina Nataliya
Published: September 2017

Since 2014, Russia has been repeatedly sanctioned by a number of foreign countries: USA, 27 countries of the European Union, Australia and the Ukraine. The sanctions were a reaction to the annexation of Crimea to Russia and become one of the causes of the financial crisis that took place in the Russian economy in 2014-2016. However, there is a number of regions and industries, which in these adverse conditions were able to achieve noticeable success and today show positive development trends. Such regions include Voronezh oblast. The article analyzes the development of the dairy industry; leaders in the production of raw milk are noted. The facts and figures of development of cattle breeding, pork production and poultry production are given. The importance of the development of the seed industry that provides economic security and high performance agriculture is noted. Progress in the development of open agriculture and greenhouse agriculture is shown. Objective goal of the region to enter foreign markets of agricultural products is especially noted, through which it is possible to replenish foreign exchange reserves of the region. The measures whose implementation will contribute to improving existing development in the area of funds are defined. The emphasis is made on the shortcomings of economic development, these include: the lack of favorable conditions for attracting investments in these sectors, appropriate level of training of personnel, development of innovative technologies. Key guidelines for the development of the region's economy in the short term are identified: improvement of the procurement system, creating a good climate for investment, construction of the plant of pelleted seed, starch and syrup production, the establishment of multi-faceted work on import substitution in agriculture. According to the authors, the taken measures will contribute to increasing productivity in agricultural industries and will allow the region to consolidate its leading position, to enter the top ten ranking of the best regions of the country.
Zoning of Juglans Regia in the Voronezh Region in the Zones of Resistance to Adverse Factors
Authors: Славский В. , Slavskiy V. , Тимащук Дарья , Timashchuk Darya , Мироненко Алексей , Mironenko Aleksey
Published: September 2017

Given the high value of nuts of the genus Juglans, the increase of production must come not only by identifying and breeding the best varieties and forms, but also by shifting the limits of cultivation to the North, in "new" regions, where nut culture was not widespread. Objects of research were local forms of walnut, which grows in 19 administrative districts of the Voronezh region. Studied garden and field plantings, plantations, landscape group and separately standing trees. In determining the resistance of plants to adverse climatic factors used conventional techniques. The primary limiting factor for walnut is hardiness, hindering its mass deployment in culture to the North of the existing zone distribution. It hardiness has the worst indicator (2.26 points), compared to the other sustainability criteria. The maximum correlation of winter temperature are marked with the figures of March (r= 0.48) and April (r=0,45). It is established that neither the mean monthly climatic parameters separately does not show a high correlation with the winter hardiness of walnut, so you should consider set of factors. With the help of the dispersion analysis identified the most significant group of climatic factors that determine the successful development of plants, which were taken as a basis for conducting zoning. The greatest influence on the winter hardiness of walnut have a sum of active temperatures (above + 5°C) – ή =0.62 and as a consequence, the annual average temperature (°C) – ή =0.53. In order for the hardiness of the walnut was at an acceptable level, it is essential to acquire the sum of active temperatures more than 3000 °C. it is Revealed that with varying degrees of success walnuts can be grown in all districts of the Voronezh region. Selected 4 functional areas according to the degree of resistance to adverse factors.
The Methodical Basis of the Agroforest Reclamation Assesment of Protective Forest Plantations by the Data of Remote Monitoring
Authors: Кулик Константин , Kulik K. , Кошелев Александр , Кошелев Александр
Published: September 2017

The south of Russia is the largest agro-industrial region of the country. One of the factors contributing to the successful development of agriculture in this area are the stable agroforestlandscapes, formed several decades ago, the main structural element of agroforestlandscapes are forest shelterbelts, which exert meliorative influence on the agroecological situation in the agrolandscapes. However, as a result of the impact of natural-climatic and anthropogenic factors, most of the protective forest plantations are in an unsatisfactory state. In this regard, it is necessary to carry out an inventory of the forest reclamation fund to obtain reliable information on their quantity and current state of protective forest plantations, with a view to developing urgent forest measures aimed at preserving them, improving the forest and reclamation condition and increasing they longevity. At present, information technologies are widely used in scientific research and practical activities, including agriculture and forestry. However, the use of remote methods and geoinformation technologies in the study of protective forest stands from the point of view of a systematic approach (assessment of forest strip systems in agrolandscapes), both in domestic and in foreign scientific research, is not sufficiently developed and requires further study. The developed author's method of agroforest reclamation assessment of protective forest plantations on the basis of remote information and GIS technologies allows simultaneous carry out three-level analysis of forest belt systems within the administrative area, the farm and the individual forest strip. The proposed approach opens up new opportunities for conducting research in the assessment of the state of protective forest plantations of the territory of the Russian Federation for the development of scientifically based principles and methods for the rational management of the agroforest reclamation fund. The presented method was successfully implemented during monitoring of protective forest plantations on the territory of the Krasnodar Territory within the framework of the implementation of the regional target program "Fertility" for 2006-2010, on an area of more than 11,000 hectares.
The Effect of Long-Term, Gradual Felling in Mixed Pine Stands for Natural Regeneration, Living Ground Cover and Some Properties of the Upper Soil Horizons
Authors: Ильинцев Алексей , Ilintsev Aleksey , Третьяков Сергей , Tretyakov Sergey , Наквасина Елена , Nakvasina Elena , Амосова Ирина , Amosova Irina , Алейников Алексей , Aleynikov Aleksey , Богданов Александр , Bogdanov Aleksandr
Published: September 2017

Silvicultural and ecological studies were conducted in mixed pine-spruce stands, with the first receiving longgradual felling in 1993-1995 on the territory of Obozerskoe forestry, Arkhangelsk region. The studied stands are presented by mixed old growth pine forests of VII age class, III bonitet class. The studies was carried out on temporary plots, with the study by standard methods of layer deposition in the apiaries and in skidding track of long-term, gradual felling and planting untouched by felling (control studies). Studies show that 25 years after logging in apiaries and in skidding track are mainly dominated by viable undergrowth. There is an increase in the proportion of viable undergrowth in the apiaries (27 %) and skidding track (36 %) compared to natural vegetation (21 %). The largest number of all categories of undergrowth is taken into account on skidding tracks, mainly due to the settlement of spruce and birch, pine are almost not renewed. Calculations of the index of phytocenotic significance and the coefficient of floristic similarity (the Jaccard index) of living ground cover showed close species composition between pristine planting and skidding track and apiaries of long-term, gradual felling that indicates the similarity of environmental and forest conditions. Built biomorf spectra also indicate similar environmental conditions. Although skidding tracks have high proportion of herbs of caespitose life form (21.7 %), this indicates a certain degree of turfing. In the apiaries and in skidding tracks there are differences with the control in physical and chemical properties of upper soil horizons. The results of studying the dynamics of natural regeneration, living ground cover and upper soil horizons allow us to give recommendations for the long-term, gradual felling to preserve silvicultural and ecological potential of plantations. The second long-term, gradual felling (solid final felling) without additional measures to promote the resumption of the pine will result in change of species composition from pine-spruce in fir-birch, which is not desirable from economic and forestry points of view.