bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Performance Levels and Methods of Measurement of Electromagnetic Compatibility of Vehicles, Boats (up to 15 m), and Machines (16.6 Hz to 18 GHz)
Authors:   Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Standards
Published: February 2017

This SAE Standard covers the measurement of radio frequency radiated emissions and immunity. Each part details the requirements for a specific type of electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) test and the applicable frequency range of the test method.

The methods are applicable to a vehicle, boat, machine or device powered by an internal combustion engine or battery powered electric motor. Operation of all engines or motors (main and auxiliary) of a vehicle, boat, machine or device is included. All equipment normally operating when the vehicle, boat, machine or device is in operation is included. Operator controlled equipment is included or excluded as specified in the individual document parts.

As a special case, CISPR 12 applies to battery powered floor finishing equipment, but robot carpet sweepers are excluded. By reference, IEC CISPR 12 and CISPR 25 are adopted as the standards for the measurement of vehicle emissions. In the event that an amendment is made or a new edition is published, the new IEC document shall become part of this standard six months after the publication of the IEC document. SAE reserves the right to identify exceptions to the published IEC documents with the exceptions to be documented in SAE J551-2 and SAE J551-4, respectively. Also by reference, ISO 11451-2, ISO 11451-3 and ISO 11451-4 are adopted as standards for the measurement of vehicle immunity. In the event that an amendment is made or a new edition is published, the new ISO document shall become part of this standard six months after the publication of the ISO document. SAE reserves the right to identify exceptions to the published ISO documents with the exceptions to be documented in SAE J551-11, SAE J551-12 and SAE J551-13, respectively.

The recommended levels apply only to complete vehicles in their final manufactured form. Vehicle-mounted rectifiers used for charging in electric vehicles are included in this series of documents when operated in their charging mode.

Emissions from intentional radiators are not controlled by this document. (See applicable, appropriate regulatory documents.) The immunity of commercial mains powered equipment to over voltages and line transients is not covered by this document.
Diesel Injection Pump Testing - Part 1: Calibrating Nozzle and Holder Assemblies
Authors:   Diesel Fuel Injection Equipment Standards Committee
Published: February 2017

This part of SAE J968 specifies two types of calibrating nozzle and holder assemblies intended for the testing and setting of diesel injection pumps on test benches.

It applies to:

a

A calibrating nozzle and holder assembly with a single hole orifice plate;

b

A calibrating nozzle and holder assembly with a delay pintle type nozzle.

The approximate range of the calibrating nozzle and holder assembly is up to:

a

300 mm3/stroke with the single hole orifice plate;

b

150 mm3/stroke with the delay pintle type nozzle.

Setting and maintenance requirements are specified in ISO 4008/3.
Diesel Injection Pump Testing—Part 2: Orifice Plate Flow Measurement
Authors:   Diesel Fuel Injection Equipment Standards Committee
Published: February 2017

This part of SAE J968 specifies the flow measuring system, including the fixture, to be used for flow testing the single hole orifice plates used in an orifice plate type nozzle and holder assembly (described in SAE J968-1) which is intended for testing and setting diesel fuel injection pumps on test benches.

The flow measuring system and fixture ensure accurate flow testing of the entire range of orifices from 0.4 to 0.8 mm diameter as specified in SAE J968-1. It is intended primarily for use by the manufacturers of single hole orifice plates.
Lead-Free Solder Validation Test Plan
Authors:   USCAR
Published: February 2017

This guideline is applicable to existing lead solder production products that will change to lead-free solder processes to meet the ELV Directive 2000/53/EC Annex II, exemption 8B requirements. This guideline is applicable to similar products used by multiple OEM's that have the same manufacturing processes / equipment. The intent is to streamline the supplier’s environmental testing via common qualification to reduce timing, quantities, and costs.
The recent increase of atmospheric methane from 10 years of ground-based NDACC FTIR observations since 2005
Authors: Bader Whitney , Bovy Benoît , Conway Stephanie , Strong Kimberly , Smale Dan , Turner Alexander J. , Blumenstock Thomas , Boone Chris , Collaud Coen Martine , Coulon Ancelin , Garcia Omaira , Griffith David W. T. , Hase Frank , Hausmann Petra , Jones Nicholas , Krummel Paul , Murata Isao , Morino Isamu , Nakajima Hideaki , O'Doherty Simon , Paton-Walsh Clare , Robinson John , Sandrin Rodrigue , Schneider Matthias , Servais Christian , Sussmann Ralf , Mahieu Emmanuel
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Changes of atmospheric methane total columns (CH4) since 2005 have been evaluated using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) solar observations carried out at 10 ground-based sites, affiliated to the Network for Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC). From this, we find an increase of atmospheric methane total columns of 0.31 ± 0.03 % year−1 (2σ level of uncertainty) for the 2005–2014 period. Comparisons with in situ methane measurements at both local and global scales show good agreement. We used the GEOS-Chem chemical transport model tagged simulation, which accounts for the contribution of each emission source and one sink in the total methane, simulated over 2005–2012. After regridding according to NDACC vertical layering using a conservative regridding scheme and smoothing by convolving with respective FTIR seasonal averaging kernels, the GEOS-Chem simulation shows an increase of atmospheric methane total columns of 0.35 ± 0.03 % year−1 between 2005 and 2012, which is in agreement with NDACC measurements over the same time period (0.30 ± 0.04 % year−1, averaged over 10 stations). Analysis of the GEOS-Chem-tagged simulation allows us to quantify the contribution of each tracer to the global methane change since 2005. We find that natural sources such as wetlands and biomass burning contribute to the interannual variability of methane. However, anthropogenic emissions, such as coal mining, and gas and oil transport and exploration, which are mainly emitted in the Northern Hemisphere and act as secondary contributors to the global budget of methane, have played a major role in the increase of atmospheric methane observed since 2005. Based on the GEOS-Chem-tagged simulation, we discuss possible cause(s) for the increase of methane since 2005, which is still unexplained.
Formation of secondary organic aerosols from the ozonolysis of dihydrofurans
Authors: Diaz-de-Mera Yolanda , Aranda Alfonso , Bracco Larisa , Rodriguez Diana , Rodriguez Ana
Published: February 2017

Abstract. In this work we report the study of the ozonolysis of 2,5-dihydrofuran and 2,3-dihydrofuran and the reaction conditions leading to the formation of secondary organic aerosols. The reactions have been carried out in a Teflon chamber filled with synthetic air mixtures at atmospheric pressure and room temperature. The ozonolysis only produced particles in the presence of SO2. Rising relative humidity from 0 to 40 % had no effect on the production of secondary organic aerosol in the case of 2,5-dihydrofuran, while it reduced the particle number and particle mass concentrations from the 2,3-dihydrofuran ozonolysis. The water-to-SO2 rate constant ratio for the 2,3-dihydrofuran Criegee intermediate was derived from the secondary organic aerosol (SOA) yields in experiments with different relative humidity values, kH2O/kSO2 =  (9.8 ± 3.7) × 10−5. The experimental results show that SO3 may not be the only intermediate involved in the formation or growth of new particles in contrast to the data reported for other Criegee intermediate–SO2 reactions. For the studied reactions, SO2 concentrations remained constant during the experiments, behaving as a catalyst in the production of condensable products. Computational calculations also show that the stabilised Criegee intermediates from the ozonolysis reaction of both 2,5-dihydrofuran and 2,3-dihydrofuran may react with SO2, resulting in the regeneration of SO2 and the formation of low-volatility organic acids.
In situ chemical measurement of individual cloud residue particles at a mountain site, South China
Authors: Lin Qinhao , Zhang Guohua , Peng Long , Bi Xinhui , Wang Xinming , Brechtel Fred J. , Li Mei , Chen Duohong , Peng Ping'an , Sheng Guoying , Zhou Zhen
Published: February 2017

Abstract. To estimate how atmospheric aerosol particles respond to chemical properties of cloud droplets, a ground-based counterflow virtual impactor (GCVI) coupled with a real-time single-particle aerosol mass spectrometer (SPAMS) was used to assess the chemical composition and mixing state of individual cloud residue particles in the Nanling Mountain Range (1,690 m a.s.l.), South China, in January 2016. The cloud residues were classified into nine particle types: Aged elemental carbon (EC), Potassium-rich (K-rich), Amine, Dust, Pb, Fe, Organic carbon (OC), Sodium-rich (Na-rich) and Other. The largest fraction of the cloud residues was the aged EC type (49.3 % by number), followed by the K-rich type (33.9 % by number). Abundant aged EC cloud residues that internally mixed with inorganic salts were found in air masses from northerly polluted areas. The number fraction (Nf) of the K-rich cloud residues significantly increased within southwesterly air masses from fire activities in Southeast Asia. In addition, the Amine particles represented 0.2 % to 15.1 % by number to the cloud residues when air masses changed from northerly to southwesterly sources. The Dust, Fe, Pb, Na-rich and OC particles had a low contribution (0.5–4.1 % by number) to the cloud residues. An analysis of the mixing state of cloud residues showed that the Dust and Na-rich cloud residues were highly associated with nitrate. Sulfate intensity increased in the aged EC and OC cloud residues and decreased in the Dust and Na-rich cloud residues relative to both ambient and interstitial particles. A comparison of cloud residues with interstitial particles indicated that a higher Nf for K-rich particles and a lower Nf for the aged EC particles were found in the cloud residues. Relative to the ambient and interstitial particles, the cloud residues exhibited larger size distributions. To our knowledge, this study is the first report on in situ observation of the chemical composition and mixing state of individual cloud residue particles in China. This study increases our understanding of the impacts of aerosols on cloud droplets in a remote area of China.
Meteorological, snow, streamflow, topographic, and vegetation height data from four western juniper-dominated experimental catchments in southwestern Idaho, USA
Authors: Kormos Patrick R. , Marks Danny G. , Pierson Frederick B. , Williams C. Jason , Hardegree Stuart P. , Boehm Alex R. , Havens Scott C. , Hedrick Andrew , Cram Zane K. , Svejcar Tony J.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Meteorological, snow, streamflow, topographic, and vegetation height data are presented from the South Mountain experimental catchments. This study site was established in 2007 as a collaborative, long-term research laboratory to address the impacts of western juniper encroachment and woodland treatments in the interior Great Basin region of the western USA. The data provide detailed information on the weather and hydrologic response from four highly instrumented catchments in the late stages of woodland encroachment in a sagebrush steppe landscape. Hourly data from six meteorologic stations and four weirs have been carefully processed, quality-checked, and are serially complete. These data are ideal for hydrologic, ecosystem, and biogeochemical modeling. Data presented are publicly available from the USDA National Agricultural Library administered by the Agricultural Research Service (https://data.nal.usda.gov/dataset/data-weather-snow-and-streamflow-data-four-western-juniper-dominated-experimental-catchments, doi:10.15482/USDA.ADC/1254010).
A trait database for marine copepods
Authors: Brun Philipp , Payne Mark R. , Kiørboe Thomas
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The trait-based approach is gaining increasing popularity in marine plankton ecology but the field urgently needs more and easier accessible trait data to advance. We compiled trait information on marine pelagic copepods, a major group of zooplankton, from the published literature and from experts and organized the data into a structured database. We collected 9306 records for 14 functional traits. Particular attention was given to body size, feeding mode, egg size, spawning strategy, respiration rate, and myelination (presence of nerve sheathing). Most records were reported at the species level, but some phylogenetically conserved traits, such as myelination, were reported at higher taxonomic levels, allowing the entire diversity of around 10 800 recognized marine copepod species to be covered with a few records. Aside from myelination, data coverage was highest for spawning strategy and body size, while information was more limited for quantitative traits related to reproduction and physiology. The database may be used to investigate relationships between traits, to produce trait biogeographies, or to inform and validate trait-based marine ecosystem models. The data can be downloaded from PANGAEA, doi:10.1594/PANGAEA.862968.
Long-term Morphodynamics of a Schematic River Analysed with a Zero-dimensional, Two-reach, Two-grainsize Model
Authors: Franzoia Mariateresa , Nones Michael , Di Silvio Giampaolo
Published: February 2017

Abstract. At the basin scale, neglecting localized deviations caused by geological constraints like knick-points, alluvial rivers commonly exhibit a concave profile and a progressive sediment fining in the downstream direction. Although this configuration is, perforce, not in equilibrium, yet it usually shows a quasi-stationary behaviour at the very long (historical and geological) time-scale. A zero-dimensional, two-reach, two-grainsize hydro-morphological model is presented and applied to a schematic river. The description of the processes involved is done assuming several reasonable and verified simplifications, giving reason of the extremely slow evolution of many alluvial rivers and providing a quantitative approach to evaluate their response time. Different from previous analytical formulations, the response time appears here to be affected, among others, by the granulometry of the sediment input. Applications of the model to different geometries demonstrate that the present riverine morphology at the basin scale will persist practically stationary for extremely long periods of time (centuries and even millennia), if the climatic forcing remain unchanged and no anthropogenic perturbations are introduced in the system.
Simple process-led algorithms for simulating habitats (SPLASH v.1.0): robust indices of radiation, evapotranspiration and plant-available moisture
Authors: Davis Tyler W. , Prentice I. Colin , Stocker Benjamin D. , Thomas Rebecca T. , Whitley Rhys J. , Wang Han , Evans Bradley J. , Gallego-Sala Angela V. , Sykes Martin T. , Cramer Wolfgang
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Bioclimatic indices for use in studies of ecosystem function, species distribution, and vegetation dynamics under changing climate scenarios depend on estimates of surface fluxes and other quantities, such as radiation, evapotranspiration and soil moisture, for which direct observations are sparse. These quantities can be derived indirectly from meteorological variables, such as near-surface air temperature, precipitation and cloudiness. Here we present a consolidated set of simple process-led algorithms for simulating habitats (SPLASH) allowing robust approximations of key quantities at ecologically relevant timescales. We specify equations, derivations, simplifications, and assumptions for the estimation of daily and monthly quantities of top-of-the-atmosphere solar radiation, net surface radiation, photosynthetic photon flux density, evapotranspiration (potential, equilibrium, and actual), condensation, soil moisture, and runoff, based on analysis of their relationship to fundamental climatic drivers. The climatic drivers include a minimum of three meteorological inputs: precipitation, air temperature, and fraction of bright sunshine hours. Indices, such as the moisture index, the climatic water deficit, and the Priestley–Taylor coefficient, are also defined. The SPLASH code is transcribed in C++, FORTRAN, Python, and R. A total of 1 year of results are presented at the local and global scales to exemplify the spatiotemporal patterns of daily and monthly model outputs along with comparisons to other model results.
Information content of stream level class data for hydrological model calibration
Authors: van Meerveld Ilja , Vis Marc , Seibert Jan
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Citizen science can provide spatially distributed data over large areas, including hydrological data. Stream levels are easier to measure than streamflow and can be observed more easily by citizen scientists. However, the challenge with crowd-based stream level data is that observations are taken at irregular time intervals and with a limited vertical resolution. The latter is especially the case at sites where no staff gauge is available and relative stream levels are observed based on (in)visible features in the stream, such as rocks. In order to assess the potential value of crowd-based stream level observations for model calibration, we pretended that stream level observations were available at a limited vertical resolution by transferring streamflow data into stream level classes. A bucket-type hydrological model was calibrated with these hypothetical data sets and subsequently evaluated on the observed streamflow records. Our results indicate that stream level data can result in good streamflow simulations, even with a reduced vertical resolution of the observations. Time series of only two stream level classes, e.g. above or below a rock in the stream, were already informative, especially when the class boundary was chosen towards the highest stream levels. There was some added value in using up to five stream level classes but there was hardly any improvement in model performance when using more level classes. These results are encouraging for citizen science projects and provide a basis for designing observation systems that collect data that are as informative as possible for deriving model-based streamflow time series for previously ungauged basins.
Can assimilation of crowdsourced data in hydrological modelling improve flood prediction?
Authors: Mazzoleni Maurizio , Verlaan Martin , Alfonso Leonardo , Monego Martina , Norbiato Daniele , Ferri Miche , Solomatine Dimitri P.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Monitoring stations have been used for decades to properly measure hydrological variables and better predict floods. To this end, methods to incorporate these observations into mathematical water models have also been developed. Besides, in recent years, the continued technological advances, in combination with the growing inclusion of citizens in participatory processes related to water resources management, have encouraged the increase of citizen science projects around the globe. In turn, this has stimulated the spread of low-cost sensors to allow citizens to participate in the collection of hydrological data in a more distributed way than the classic static physical sensors do. However, two main disadvantages of such crowdsourced data are the irregular availability and variable accuracy from sensor to sensor, which makes them challenging to use in hydrological modelling. This study aims to demonstrate that streamflow data, derived from crowdsourced water level observations, can improve flood prediction if integrated in hydrological models. Two different hydrological models, applied to four case studies, are considered. Realistic (albeit synthetic) time series are used to represent crowdsourced data in all case studies. In this study, it is found that the data accuracies have much more influence on the model results than the irregular frequencies of data availability at which the streamflow data are assimilated. This study demonstrates that data collected by citizens, characterized by being asynchronous and inaccurate, can still complement traditional networks formed by few accurate, static sensors and improve the accuracy of flood forecasts.
Monitoring the variations of evapotranspiration due to land use/cover change in a semiarid shrubland
Authors: Gong Tingting , Lei Huimin , Yang Dawen , Jiao Yang , Yang Hanbo
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Evapotranspiration (ET) is an important process in the hydrological cycle, and vegetation change is a primary factor that affects ET. In this study, we analyzed the annual and inter-annual characteristics of ET using continuous observation data from eddy covariance (EC) measurement over 4 years (1 July 2011 to 30 June 2015) in a semiarid shrubland of Mu Us Sandy Land, China. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was demonstrated as the predominant factor that influences the seasonal variations in ET. Additionally, during the land degradation and vegetation rehabilitation processes, ET and normalized ET both increased due to the integrated effects of the changes in vegetation type, topography, and soil surface characteristics. This study could improve our understanding of the effects of land use/cover change on ET in the fragile ecosystem of semiarid regions and provide a scientific reference for the sustainable management of regional land and water resources.
Active tectonics of the onshore Hengchun Fault using UAS DTM
combined with ALOS PS-InSAR time series (Southern Taiwan)
Authors: Deffontaines Benoit , Chang Kuo-Jen , Champenois Johann , Lin Kuan-Chuan , Lee Chyi-Tyi , Chen Rou-Fei , Hu Jyr-Ching , Fruneau Bénédicte
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Geometry, characterization and quantification of active faults are major concern in Taiwan, especially following the major Chichi earthquake of September 21st, 1999. Among the targets that still remain poorly known in terms of active tectonics, are the Hengchun and Kenting faults (Southern Taiwan). From the geodynamic point of view, the latter affects the outcropping top of the Manila accretionary prism of the Manila subduction zone that runs from Luzon (N. Philippines) to Taiwan. In order to settle the location, characterization and quantification of the Hengchun fault, we needed to up-date the Chinese Petroleum Corporation (CPC, 1993) and Central Geological Survey (Sung, 1991) existing geological maps using GIS mapping and photo-interpretation of both UAS's acquisition : 1). the very high precision (
Algumas demonstrações para introduzir a arte da performance
Authors: Sehn Carina , Zordan Paola
Published: February 2017

O texto traz algumas noções relativas à performance a partir de exemplos, alguns bastante conhecidos do público especializado, para introduzir questões básicas em torno desse tipo de manifestação, apresentando célebres obras performáticas. Pressupondo que a performance ainda não seja uma arte familiar para a maior parte das pessoas, uma breve história de suas origens e marcos principais é traçada. A intenção é mostrar como se constitui essa arte, suas relações com as intensidades do corpo e o porquê da performance ser considerada “arte viva” e não de representação.Palavras-chave: Arte viva, história da performance, presença.
Narrativas híbridas: o estático e o móvel no vídeo “911” do coletivo Cia de Foto
Authors: Castanheira Rafael
Published: February 2017

Este artigo propõe-se a analisar o vídeo “911”, produzido pelo coletivo de fotógrafos Cia de Foto, a fim de refletir sobre as suas características técnicas e estéticas que apontam para novas formas de edição e apresentação dos temas no documentário fotográfico contemporâneo. Ao mesclar fotografias estáticas e imagens em movimento, o coletivo desafia o modelo tradicional da narrativa realista do fotojornalismo e do documentarismo clássico empregado ao longo de todo o século XX, assumindo abertamente a ficção como possibilidade para a construção de novas visualidades e representações sobre as questões sociais no mundo hoje.Palavras-chave: Fotodocumentário, narrativas híbridas, Cia de Foto
The Role of RANKL/RANK/OPG System in the Canine Model of Hip Periprosthetic Infection Osteolysis
Authors: Zhang Hao-Wei , Peng Li , Li Wen-Bo , Song Ke-Guan
Published: February 2017

Purpose

We aimed to investigate whether the RANKL/RANK/OPG system is associated with the incidence of periprosthetic osteolysis with septic loosening, and to investigate the differences of RANKL/RANK/OPG system expression in synovial fluid surrounding the normal and septic loosening hip prosthesis in canine models.

Methods

Twelve healthy adult mongrel canines were divided into two groups: experimental and control. Femoral head and stem replacements were conducted on the right side in both groups. The experimental group received the bacteria fluid intra-articular injection and the other group received the same amount of saline in the same day. The synovial fluid samples were gathered at the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 8th, 12th, 16th and 19th week after the bacteria fluid intra-articular injection for enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the expression of the RANKL/RANK/OPG system.

Results

Surgery on all animals was successful. Two dogs were excluded from the analysis of the result because of a surgery infection or death. The ELISA of the synovial fluid revealed that the ratio of RANKL/OPG showed a significant upward trend (p≤0.05) with time in the test group but the ratio of RANKL/OPG in the control group changed slowly over time (p>0.05). The ratio of RANKL/OPG value between the test and control group showed a significant upward trend, but had no statistical difference (p>0.05) over time.

Conclusions

It could be concluded that the RANKL/RANK/OPG system is correlated with the incidence of periprosthetic osteolysis with septic loosening. Consequently, imbalance RANKL/RANK/OPG system was related to periprosthetic osteolysis with septic loosening.
Hepatitis C Virus Infection in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients: Recommendations for Diagnostics and Treatment
Authors: Dzekova-Vidimliski Pavlina , Sikole Aleksandar
Published: February 2017

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is highly prevalent among patients treated with maintenance hemodialysis and is an important cause of morbidity and mortality. It is necessary to determine the HCV genotype and the viral load to monitor the clinical and laboratory features and to establish an optimal antiviral treatment strategy. Antiviral treatments are presented with a standard interferon-based regimen and new direct-acting antiviral agents. The advent of direct-acting antivirals has improved the efficacy and safety of HCV treatment for most patients, even in difficult-to-treat populations such as patients on hemodialysis. HCV treatment with direct-acting antivirals in hemodialysis patients is highly effective, with viral eradication rates similar to those seen in patients without chronic kidney disease and with acceptable adverse event profiles.
Efficacy of Postoperative Polymyxin B Hemoperfusion in Secondary Peritonitis Patients with Septic Shock: A Propensity-Matched Analysis
Authors: Yuan Kuo-Ching , Wang Shang-Yu , Yu Ming-Chin , Hsu Yu-Pao , Pan Heng-Chih , Chen Yung-Chang
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Severe sepsis and septic shock is still a challenge. Polymyxin B hemoperfusion (PMX) is a device designed to remove circulating endotoxin by adsorption, which is reported to improve treatment outcomes. This study aimed to further verify the efficacy of PMX on postoperative, peritonitis, septic shock patients.

Methods

This study prospectively analyzed 20 of 155 patients who presented with postoperative septic shock and were treated with PMX in a single institute during the period March 2013 to September 2014 (Clinical Trial Protocol number: ChiCTR-ONC-16008160). A control group (53 patients) was recruited from our own 2012 database using the propensity-matching score method. The data collection includes demographic data, postoperative organ dysfunction status, disease severity and treatment result.

Results

The 2 groups (treatment vs. control) were similar in demographic data, organ dysfunction status and disease severity. PMX use provides benefits for recovery of hemodynamic status and many other aspects, including better survival, but is not statistically significant. For survival factor analysis, PMX use is also not significant for patient survival in our study.

Conclusions

PMX provided some benefits to patients in the treatment for peritonitis septic shock. An improvement in hemodynamic status was mostly observed. Our study also supports the finding that PMX used as an auxiliary treatment provides improved survival but is not statistically significant, possibly due to the small sample size with multiple comorbidities.
Instrumental prepositions and case: Contexts of occurrence and alternations with datives
Authors: Franco Ludovico , Manzini M. Rita
Published: February 2017

We will argue that instrumentals are the mirror image of dative/genitive obliques. We propose that both sets of adpositions/cases are elementary predicates, expressing a zonal inclusion (part-whole/possession relation); instrumentals reverse the direction of the relation with respect to datives/genitives. Our claim is that with-type morphemes provide very elementary means of attaching extra participants (themes, initiators, etc.) to events (VP or vP predicates) – with specialized interpretations derived by pragmatic enrichment (contextual, encyclopedic) at the C-I interface. We will extend our proposal to account for the observation that the instrumentals can be employed cross-linguistically in triadic verb constructions alternating with datives and we will broaden our discussion to account for dative/instrumental syncretism (eventually including DOM objects), arguing that the inclusion predicate (⊆) corresponding to ‘to’ or dative case and its reverse (⊇), corresponding to ‘with’ or instrumental case, may reduce to an even more primitive content capable of conveying inclusion in either direction. Finally, we will address ergative alignments, showing that languages may attach external arguments/agents either as possessors (⊆) or as causers (⊇) of a given event/state, yielding the two most widespread patterns of syncretism of the ergative morpheme, that is with either instrumentals or genitives/datives.
Exploring perceptions of fracking and environmental health in a 3-county population in South Texas
Authors: Whitworth Kristina W. , LaRosa Elisabeth De , Mackay Taylor , Hernandez Ashley , Martin Mary K. , Lopez Jaime , Small Monty , Winkler Paula , Valerio Melissa A.
Published: February 2017

Introduction: The past decade in the United States has been marked by an unprecedented expansion of unconventional oil and gas drilling, including hydraulic fracturing (i.e., fracking). Concerns have arisen regarding potential health and environmental risks associated with the use of the fracking process. The purpose of this exploratory study was to examine community perceptions, concerns, and knowledge of environmental health issues related to fracking in three Texas counties near one of the most active shale plays in South Texas, the Eagle Ford Shale.Methods: A convenience sample of 153 adults over the age of 18 years in three rural South Texas counties completed a 46-question survey. Demographic information, perceptions of environmental health risks, and knowledge of potential environmental health effects related to fracking were obtained. A validated health literacy measure was also used to assess participants’ health literacy.Results: Participants were predominantly female (61%), white (75%), and Hispanic (62%). A majority owned land (53.6%) and had lived in their respective county for over 21 years (54%). Only 32% percent of participants had marginal or inadequate health literacy though a larger percentage of participants had limited knowledge of potential environmental health risks related to fracking.Conclusions: Approximately one third of participants had less than adequate health literacy as measured by the BRIEF. A high percentage of the population demonstrated limited knowledge regarding the potential environmental health impacts of fracking, suggesting limited environmental health literacy. Findings point to the need for environmental health specific assessments and focused environmental health promotion strategies.
Documentation and investigation of missing health care equipment: The need to safeguard high priced devices in health care institutions
Authors: Cheung Amanda , Clayden Nancy , Ocampo Wrechelle , Kiplagat Linet , Kaufman Jaime , Baylis Barry , Conly John M. , Ghali William A. , Ho Chester H. , Stelfox Henry T. , Hogan David B.
Published: February 2017

Objective: Missing medical equipment in health care settings decrease productivity, increase spending to replace losses, and potentially endanger patient safety. By documenting and investigating the causes of these incidents, strategies to prevent future occurrences can be developed.Methods: As an example of this approach, we describe the inadvertent disposal of an expensive medical device during a randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted within a medical facility. The incident was carefully documented and investigated shortly after it occurred. This information was used to develop targeted interventions to prevent further occurrences.Results: The device was a mattress overlay connected to a computer monitor that generated a continuous pressure image for use by nursing staff in the prevention of pressure injuries. An Environmental Services staff member disposed of one of these devices when the room of an enrolled patient was cleaned following their transfer to another unit. Miscommunication (or a misunderstanding of communicated information) and lack of awareness were identified as the main causes of this error.Discussion: By using the loss as a learning opportunity, the investigation of the incident led to strategies for preventing future occurrences. These included frequent training sessions for staff and improvements in signage. A detailed, factual and timely investigation of the events around the loss of armamentarium coupled with analysis on how to prevent future occurrences should be considered for all incidents involving high cost equipment.Conclusions: A standardized, non-judgmental approach to documenting and investigating the causes of costly equipment loss can lead to strategies for improved asset management and the prevention of further incidents of this nature.
Preparation of Starch-Based Biodegradable Film and the Application in Agriculture
Authors: Xu Lei , Jiang Xizhi , Zhao Yongfu , Xia Liru
Published: February 2017

A starch-based biodegradable film was prepared in this paper, and the properties of the film were discussed. The film was prepared with polyethylene grafted and blended by epichlorohydrin modified-corn starch, linear low density polyethylene, low density polyethylene and maleic anhydride. Epoxy soybean oil was served as plasticizer and a small amout of ethylene propylene diene monomer was used as compatibilizer. 0.012 mm thickness degradable films were prepared with various blow molding methods. FTIR was used to characterize the modified starch and SEM was used to observe the morphology of the film before and after the modification. The results showed that the film could maintain an excellent performance on mechanical properties and degradation until the content of modified starch increased to 70% and have a good future in agricultural application.
Profitability Analysis of Small Scale Fishery Enterprise in Nigeria
Authors: Olukunle Oni Timothy
Published: February 2017

Segmented markets of sub-optimal size existing in fishery value chain do not ensure sizeable private investment in the different stages of the value chain in Nigeria. Supply-demand gaps are increasingly being filled by imports, thus dampening prospects for increased revenue generation by actors in the chain. Market failures in the fish value chain limited capability and performance of small scale fish enterprises at the various stages of the chain. As such this study is prompted by the need to determine and compare profitability of actors along the fish value chain with the use of survey data collected from fishery farmers, marketers and processors. Budgetary framework was used to estimate cost and returns to actors while regression framework was used to estimate determinants of profit at the small scale farm level. The results showed that lowest level of profitability was associated with the producers of fish at farm level. Across all stages, profitability was affected by changes in the cost of labour more than any other costs. In addition, the results showed that profit level declined by 0.04%, 0.51%, 0.01%, and 0.13%, respectively, for every one percent increase in the cost of labour, fertilizer and liming, feed and pond construction at the small scale farm level. Findings suggest that emphasis of new agricultural promotion policy should be on strengthening linkage and access of small scale operators in fishery subsector to adequate inputs, information, and innovation at reduced costs so as to drive increased investments and profitability in fishery value chain.
Multivariate Analysis for Yield and Its Component Traits in Experimental Maize Hybrids
Authors: Kumar Ramesh , Chikkappa G. K. , Singh S. B. , Mukri Ganapati , Kaul J. , Das A. K. , Sravani D. , Olakh D. S. , Bhatia D.
Published: February 2017

Crop yields of major cereal including maize are not increasing at the targeted growth rates to feed the rising demands stemming from increase in the human population. To increase maize grain yield, there should be continuous improvement of cultures which are actively utilized by the plant breeders. Variability in germplasm is always the key to improvement and to assess the extent of variation is never ending process in a plant breeding program. Out of several methods available for assessing the variability, multivariate analysis is one of the most important and widely used methods. In the present study, 27 hybrids (including three checks) were evaluated for yield and yield contributing traits at three different locations during rabi 2013-14. Analysis of variance revealed significant variations among hybrids for all the traits. Based on Principal Component Analysis, 76.81% of the total variance in the data was accounted for by first four principal components (PC). Cluster analysis based on PC grouped the 27 hybrids into two major groups named as A and B. The group A further contained three sub-groups named as A1, A2, and A3 with two hybrids falling in each group. Similarly group B contained four subgroups classified as B1 to B4 with 2, 7, 5 and 7 hybrids falling in each subgroup respectively. The hybrids falling in two major groups contained more diversity than those falling in subgroups within a group. Selection of hybrids from the different groups would facilitate exploiting significant heterosis. Therefore, multivariate analysis including Principal component analysis followed by cluster analysis could be a reliable approach for assessing the extent of variability on in the germplasm and making its use in a suitable direction.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Journal of Agricultural Science, Vol. 9, No. 3
Authors: Brown Anne
Published: February 2017

Reviewer acknowledgements for Journal of Agricultural Science, Vol. 9, No. 3, 2017.
Weaning of Burbot, Lota lota (L.) from Live to Dry Feed Using NaCl as Dietary Attractant
Authors: Lahnsteiner Franz , Kletzl Manfred
Published: February 2017

Weaning of 150 days post hatch Lota lota from live feed (zooplankton) to formulated dry feed (FDF) was investigated. L. lota could not be forced from live feed to FDF. They refused FDF for periods up to 21 d. Body mass decreased for 20%, condition factor for 15%, and hepatosomatic index for 50%. In 21 days lasting co-feeding experiments with FDF and live feed L. lota selected exclusively the live feed organisms. NaCl in a concentration of 5% was a dietary feeding attractant for L. lota. When FDF was supplemented with 5% NaCl, L. lota could be abruptly weaned from live to dry feed. During a 21 d lasting experiment body mass increased for circa 40%, total length for 10%, condition factor for 5% and hepatosomatic index remained constant. These values were similar to live zooplankton feeding. However, increased mortality of > 20% was recorded for fish fed with the 5% NaCl containing FDF. To reduce mortality FDF was supplemented with zooplankton meal to upgrade its quality and extruded to optimize its density and sedimentation rate. With the adjusted FDF mortality rates were reduced to < 5%. Using the optimized dry feed easy and sustainable weaning protocols were developed where NaCl and zooplankton meal were gradually reduced to adapt fish to pure FDF.
Land Suitability Assessment for Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) Production in Kabwe District, Central Zambia
Authors: Munene Prisca , Chabala Lydia M. , Mweetwa Alice M.
Published: February 2017

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.), is a high value crop that can generate income for households. As a legume, soybean is incorporated in cropping systems to improve soil fertility. Soybean productivity is however limited by factors including declined soil fertility, climate change and partly due to inadequate land suitability information. This study aimed at identifying suitable land for soybean production in Kabwe district. Data layers of selected attributes relevant to soybean production were generated with slope and wetness data layers extracted from the digital elevation model (DEM). Elevation was used as a proxy for climate (rainfall and temperature) and was generated by reclassifying the elevation grid into elevation classes. Data layers for soil reaction (pH), soil organic carbon, phosphorus and texture were generated by inverse distance weighting interpolation method based on soil point data. A distance to roads layer was created using the euclidean distance tool. A spatial process model based on multi-criteria evaluation was used to integrate data layers in a weighted sum overlay to generate a soybean suitability map, whose quality was assessed using an error matrix. Results showed that 15.07% of the investigated area was highly suitable for soybean production, whereas 26.53% was suitable and 25.18% was moderately suitable. The other 20.57% was marginally suitable, 10.74% was currently not suitable and 1.92% was permanently not suitable. Based on ground truth data, the overall classification accuracy of the suitability map was 65%. The map was therefore good enough for use as a guide in selecting suitable sites for soybean production.
Gerenciamento de estoques em ambiente hospitalar: estudo de caso em um ambulatório público infantil
Authors: Andrade Winston Aparecido , De Oliveira Marcos Antônio Maia , Navazava Taeko , Formigoni Alexandre
Published: February 2017

As instituições de saúde, em geral, devem contar com uma excelente logística, especialmente de estoques e de custos, a fim de continuarem atuando num mercado que vem-se revelando cada vez mais competitivo. É também indispensável buscar a melhoria do nível de atendimento aos clientes. Portanto, torna-se imprescindível um gestor com excepcional proficuidade para a dificílima incumbência de conciliar alvos que se contrapõem: reduzir custos com estoques e, simultaneamente, manter um nível satisfatório de atendimento aos pacientes. Nesse contexto, a finalidade primordial no atual trabalho foi investigar a técnica de gerenciamento de estoques adotada na farmácia de um ambulatório público infantil, com o intuito de apresentar sugestões e recomendações para otimização da logística.
A TOC na prática: explorando a restrição em uma fábrica
Authors: Queiroz Ari Franco Romeiro Alves , Assis Arinéia Nogueira de , Menezes Marco Antonio Figueiredo , Dantas Maria José Pereira , Godinho Filho Moacir
Published: February 2017

Neste trabalho, desenvolveu-se um modelo teórico para o processo de tomada de decisão de como explorar a restrição de um sistema, baseado na estratégia de planejamento e controle da produção TOC, para sua consequente implementação prática em fábricas com sistema de produção repetitivo e com múltiplos produtos para atender a demanda. Aplicou-se o modelo baseado na pesquisa-ação em uma fábrica de confecção para aventura, caça e pesca. Os resultados apontaram redução de estoque de produto acabado em torno de 50%; qualificação do estoque de produto acabado, pois a maioria dos produtos que se encontravam armazenados estavam entre aqueles mais difíceis de serem feitos e os mais vendidos; e aumento da produtividade.
Internacionalização e Inovação: Uma Análise Longitudinal dos Países Sul-Americanos
Authors: Dos Santos Isabel Cristina , Ferreira Humberto Medrado Gomes
Published: February 2017

O objetivo neste trabalho é analisar os indicadores de desenvolvimento econômico e científico dos países da América do Sul. Esta é uma pesquisa descritiva quantitativa, baseada em análise longitudinal dos principais indicadores de internacionalização e inovação de países sul-americanos. A coleta de dados teve caráter documental e incluiu variáveis relacionadas à exportação, aos investimentos em conhecimento e infraestrutura tecnológica e ingresso de investimento direto estrangeiro. Os resultados indicam que a internacionalização dos negócios está associada à capacidade inovadora. A manutenção da competitividade industrial é fator crítico e um dos principais desafios à internacionalização, reforçando que a adoção de novas tecnologias e a qualificação da mão de obra fortalecem os investimentos e impactam nas relações comerciais dos países. Concluiu-se que as variáveis exportações, conhecimento e investimento direto impactam na internacionalização dos negócios e estão fortemente associadas à capacidade inovadora das indústrias dos países analisados.
People with diabetes at work – real threats and myths
Authors: Łastowiecka-Moras Elżbieta , Bugajska Joanna
Published: February 2017

Diabetes is a metabolic disease with complex and varied etiology characterized by chronic elevated level of glucose in the blood. Type 2 diabetes accounts for about 90% of all cases of the disease. Diabetes is a civilization disease, affecting a person younger and younger, and therefore with an increase in the number of new cases of the disease increase not only costs of the diagnosis and treatment of diabetes and its complications, but also the costs resulting from premature cessation of employment and unemployment, which affects people suffering from diabetes.
Diabetics often have trouble with finding the appropriate job and those who work are afraid of losing their jobs because of the false belief about their frequent absenteeism and lower productivity.
Performance of work by a diabetic is recommended and beneficial, and only a few professions are not recommended for them. To employee with diabetes can safely work, you must create it with adequate working conditions and education in diabetes must apply to all - not only the patient but also his family, friends and co-workers.