bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usability Evaluation of Public Web Mapping Sites
Authors: Wang C.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Web mapping sites are interactive maps that are accessed via Webpages. With the rapid development of Internet and Geographic Information System (GIS) field, public web mapping sites are not foreign to people. Nowadays, people use these web mapping sites for various reasons, in that increasing maps and related map services of web mapping sites are freely available for end users. Thus, increased users of web mapping sites led to more usability studies. Usability Engineering (UE), for instance, is an approach for analyzing and improving the usability of websites through examining and evaluating an interface. In this research, UE method was employed to explore usability problems of four public web mapping sites, analyze the problems quantitatively and provide guidelines for future design based on the test results. Firstly, the development progress for usability studies were described, and simultaneously several usability evaluation methods such as Usability Engineering (UE), User-Centered Design (UCD) and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) were generally introduced. Then the method and procedure of experiments for the usability test were presented in detail. In this usability evaluation experiment, four public web mapping sites (Google Maps, Bing maps, Mapquest, Yahoo Maps) were chosen as the testing websites. And 42 people, who having different GIS skills (test users or experts), gender (male or female), age and nationality, participated in this test to complete the several test tasks in different teams. The test comprised three parts: a pretest background information questionnaire, several test tasks for quantitative statistics and progress analysis, and a posttest questionnaire. The pretest and posttest questionnaires focused on gaining the verbal explanation of their actions qualitatively. And the design for test tasks targeted at gathering quantitative data for the errors and problems of the websites. Then, the results mainly from the test part were analyzed. The success rate from different public web mapping sites was calculated and compared, and displayed by the means of diagram. And the answers from questionnaires were also classified and organized in this part. Moreover, based on the analysis, this paper expands the discussion about the layout, map visualization, map tools, search logic and etc. Finally, this paper closed with some valuable guidelines and suggestions for the design of public web mapping sites. Also, limitations for this research stated in the end.
Accuracy Evaluation of 3D Geometry from Low-Attitude UAV collections A case at Zijin Mine
Authors: Wang Q. , Wu L. , Chen S. , Shu D. , Xu Z. , Li F. , Wang R.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. This study investigates the usability of low-attitude unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) acquiring high resolution images for the geometry reconstruction of opencast mine. Image modelling techniques like Structure from Motion (SfM) and Patch-based Multiview Stereo (PMVS) algorithms are used to generate dense 3D point cloud from UAV collections. Then, precision of 3D point cloud will be first evaluated based on Real-time Kinematic (RTK) ground control points (GCPs) at point level. The experimental result shows that the mean square error of the UAV point cloud is 0.11 m. Digital surface model (DSM) of the study area is generated from UAV point cloud, and compared with that from the Terrestrial Laser Scanner (TLS) data for further comparison at the surface level. Discrepancy map of 3D distances based on DSMs shows that most deviation is less than ±0.4 m and the relative error of the volume is 1.55 %.
Change detection-based updating of constructed land in large area
Authors: Xing H. , Chen J. , Wu H. , Lu M.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Urban development significantly changes constructed land across both urban and rural areas around the world in recent years. It is vital to keep constructed land data "fresh" for its application and development. Change detection with remotely sensed imagery is an effective way to updating land cover in large area. In this paper, the updating requirements of constructed land in large area are analysed. A strategy is proposed to select suitable change detection method from data source, manual work and accuracy assessment. Then two different approaches of updating land cover with change detection are compared by mean of this strategy. Based on the comparison result, current experiment of updating constructed land with change detection in Shandong province is discussed. Updating land cover with change detection in manner of web services will be research priorities in future research.
A General Provincial Situation Visualization System Based on iPhone Operating System of Shandong Province
Authors: Ye Z. , Xiang H.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The paper discusses the basic principles and the problem solutions during the design and implementation of the mobile GIS system, and base on the research result, we developed the General Provincial Situation Visualization System Based on iOS of Shandong Province. The system is developed in the Objective-C programming language, and use the ArcGIS Runtime SDK for IOS as the development tool to call the "World-map Shandong" services to implement the development of the General Provincial Situation Visualization System Based on iOS devices. The system is currently available for download in the Appstore and is chosen as the typical application case of ESRI China ArcGIS API for iOS.
Study on Technology for Precision Correction of Land Survey Data based on Plotting Result Data and Feature Points
Authors: Zeng G. , Xie S. , Peng J. , Liu M.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. High‐precision land survey data is important foundation for fine management of land resources and enhancement of land use efficiency. The main method for land survey is remote sensing (RS) survey. However, the accuracy of data gained through this method is susceptible to image map, boundary interpretation, plotting process and other factors. To improve the accuracy, the method of precision correction of land investigation data that is based on high resolution image data with geometric correction model was discussed in detail. Technical test was conducted in some area of GuangZhou in China, and experimental results showed that the method can improve the accuracy of land survey data effectively.
Design Research of TIANDITU (Map Worl)-Based Geographic Information System for Travelling Service
Authors: Zhang J. , Zhang H. , Wang C.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. TIANDITU (Map World) is the public version of the National Platform for Common Geospatial Information Service, and the travelling channel is TIANDITU-based geographic information platform for travelling service. With the development of tourism, traditional ways for providing travelling information cannot meet the needs of travelers. As such, the travelling channel of TIANDITU focuses on providing travel information abundantly and precisely, which integrated the geographic information data of TIANDITU Version 2.0 and the authoritative information resources from China National Tourism Administration. Furthermore, spatial positioning, category and information query of various travelling information were offered for the public in the travelling channel. This research mainly involves three important parts: the system design, key technologies of the system design and application examples. Firstly, this paper introduced the design of TIANDITU-based geographic information system for travelling service, and the general and database design were described in detail. The designs for general, database and travelling service above should consider lots of factors which illustrated in the paper in order to guarantee the efficient service. The process of system construction, the content of geographic information for travelling and system functions of geographic information for travelling are also proposed via diagram in this part. Then several key technologies were discussed, including the travelling information integration for main node and among nodes, general architecture design and management system for travelling channel, web portals and system interface. From the perspective of main technologies, this part describes how TIANDITU travelling channel can realize various functions and reach the requirements from different users. Finally, three application examples about travelling information query were listed shortly. The functions and search results are shown clearly in this part. In all, TIANDITU-based geographic information system for travelling service aimed to integrate the travelling information resources from national, provincial and municipal levels, and finally realized to provide "one stop" travelling service for users in the end.
Design and Implementation of Beijing Fundamental Geospatial Framework Platform
Authors: Zhao C. X. , Wu A. H. , Tao Y. C. , Gao W. C. , Liu J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The construction of fundamental geospatial framework is an important infrastructure project. It provides spatial positioning and play s an indispensable role for city development and informatization construction. This paper discusses about the design and implementa tion of Beijing Fundamental Geospatial Framework platform. It mainly describes the goal and content of the construction , the techni cal architecture,the design of fundamental geospatial database , and main functions of the systems, and also introduces to the key rele vant technologies in detail. At present, the platform has been put into use, and has provided data service for Units or individuals inter nal and external. Construction of Beijing fundamental geospatial framework platform is similar to other cities, so techniques and met hods in this paper can be used as reference for other cities.
Fast Updating National Geo-Spatial Databases with High Resolution Imagery: China's Methodology and Experience
Authors: Chen J. , Wang D. , Zhao R. L. , Zhang H. , Liao A. , Jiu J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Geospatial databases are irreplaceable national treasure of immense importance. Their up-to-dateness referring to its consistency with respect to the real world plays a critical role in its value and applications. The continuous updating of map databases at 1:50,000 scales is a massive and difficult task for larger countries of the size of more than several million's kilometer squares. This paper presents the research and technological development to support the national map updating at 1:50,000 scales in China, including the development of updating models and methods, production tools and systems for large-scale and rapid updating, as well as the design and implementation of the continuous updating workflow. The use of many data sources and the integration of these data to form a high accuracy, quality checked product were required. It had in turn required up to date techniques of image matching, semantic integration, generalization, data base management and conflict resolution. Design and develop specific software tools and packages to support the large-scale updating production with high resolution imagery and large-scale data generalization, such as map generalization, GIS-supported change interpretation from imagery, DEM interpolation, image matching-based orthophoto generation, data control at different levels. A national 1:50,000 databases updating strategy and its production workflow were designed, including a full coverage updating pattern characterized by all element topographic data modeling, change detection in all related areas, and whole process data quality controlling, a series of technical production specifications, and a network of updating production units in different geographic places in the country.
Spatial Distribution of Typical Landuse Type in Underdeveloped Industrial Cities – A Case of Jialing District in Nanchong City, Sichuan Province
Authors: Dong C. , Luo M. , Wang Y. , Liu S.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The land-use pattern is one of the key study areas of the utilization of land resource、landscape ecology and the sustainable development, which has important implications for other areas such as the ecological environment, land-use, and isolation. Based on the second national land survey data, the applicat ion of landscape ecology theory and mathematical statistics, selecting the diversity index, evenness index, dominance index, fragmentation such as separation, we have studied the quantit ative characteristics of the land-use structure in the suburbs. We have created a kind of distribution in the fractal structure model by using the fractal theory and have analyzed the complxity and stability of the types of land distribution, based on fractal dimension and stability indexes. The results showed that: the diversity and evenness index is smaller, the dominance index is larger, so that the land-use structure is uneven and the advantage land-use is cultivated land. The order of the separation is contrary to the fragmentation. The cultivated land is the most broken and the most concentrated land-use as well as the water area is the least broken and the most scatter land-use. Fractal dimension and stability index shows that the land-use distribution form is more irregular and less stable. The study conducted an analysis of the land-use structure of the urban in the underdeveloped cities, providing a reference for the ecological environmental protection, the rationalization of land-use.
An inventory of topographic surface changes: the value of multi-temporal elevation data for change analysis and monitoring
Authors: Gesch D. B.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Landscape change resulting from human activities continues to be a primary topic in geographic research. Many studies have focused upon human-induced changes in two dimensions, namely in land cover. However, those changes may include a corresponding transformation of the third dimension, or vertical component, of the landscape as expressed in the local surface topography. Some previous studies have estimated the total effects of human activity on the landforms and shape of the Earth’s surface, but these studies have not emphasized the spatial component of the changes. The primary issue addressed by the research reported here is the need for more comprehensive information on the nature and extent of recent human geomorphic activity. The elevation information from the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) paired with the historical topographic data in the U.S. Geological Survey's National Elevation Dataset (NED) allow for mapping and assessment of significant changes to the shape of the land surface across the conterminous United States. The NED supplied the historical elevation information that was subtracted from the more recently collected SRTM data to create an elevation difference grid that provided information about where topographic changes have taken place. The elevation difference information was filtered and refined to complete a national inventory of vertical landscape changes, and it represents a first ever accounting of topographic change across the United States. The inventory serves as a useful foundation for ongoing monitoring of topographic changes using recently collected high-resolution elevation data, including current work with airborne interferometric synthetic aperture radar data.
From sub-optimal datasets to a CityGML-compliant 3D city model: experiences from Trento, Italy
Authors: Agugiaro G.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. More and more cities are moving towards the creation and adoption of three-dimensional virtual city models as a means for data integration, harmonisation and storage. To this purpose, CityGML is an international standard conceived specifically as information and data model for semantic city models at urban and territorial scale. The automatic building reconstruction process, up to the Level of Detail 2 (LoD2) can be achieved nowadays nearly completely automatically and with a high degree of accuracy, provided that high quality input data (e.g. a dense DSM obtained from LiDAR or dense stereo-matching with 10÷15 pt/m2 or better) are provided. This paper deals indeed with the creation of a CityGML-compliant, LoD2 city model starting from sub-optimal datasets and tries to address some of the issues tied with the use of sub-standard data – which however, represents a quite common case in “real life”. As study area, a part of the city of Trento, in the northern Alpine region of Italy, was chosen and contains about 2300 buildings of different typology, use and construction year. Only existing datasets were gathered and used.
Validation of SRTM X Band DEM over Himalayan Mountain
Authors: Gupta R. D. , Singh M. K. , Snehmani S. , Ganju A.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The present research study assesses the accuracy of the SRTM X band DEM with respect to high accuracy photogrammetric Digital Elevation Model (DEM) for parts of the Himalaya. The high resolution DEM was generated for Manali and nearby areas using digital aerial photogrammetric survey data of 40 cm Ground Sampling Distance (GSD) captured through airborne ADS80 pushbroom camera for the first time in Indian Himalayan context. This high resolution DEM was evaluated with Differential Global Positioning System (DGPS) points for accuracy assessment. The ADS80-DEM gave root mean square error (RMSE) of ~<1m and linear error of 1.60 m at 90 % confidence (LE 90) when compared with the DGPS points. The overall RMSE in vertical accuracy was 73.36 m while LE 90 was 75.20 m with regard to ADS80 DEM. It is observed that the accuracy achieved for part of Himalayan region is far less as compared to the values officially claimed. Thus, SRTM X band DEM should be used with due care in mountainous regions of Himalaya.
Considering Affective Responses towards Environments for Enhancing Location Based Services
Authors: Huang H. , Gartner G. , Klettner S. , Schmidt M.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. A number of studies in the field of environmental psychology show that humans perceive and evaluate their surroundings affectively. Some places are experienced as unsafe, while some others as attractive and interesting. Experiences from daily life show that many of our daily behaviours and decision-making are often influenced by this kind of affective responses towards environments. Location based services (LBS) are often designed to assist and support people’s behaviours and decision-making in space. In order to provide services with high usefulness (usability and utility), LBS should consider these kinds of affective responses towards environments. This paper reports on the results of a research project, which studies how people’s affective responses towards environments can be modelled and acquired, as well as how LBS can benefit by considering these affective responses. As one of the most popular LBS applications, mobile pedestrian navigation systems are used as an example for illustration.
Computer Aided Teaching in Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing, and Geomatics – A Status Review
Authors: Vyas A. , Koenig G.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Education and training play vital role in the utilization of the technology. Shared and coordinated knowledge that geospatial technology and GIS deliver provides a deeper understanding of our present and will also help to better understand our future development. But it is not enough to explain new technological developments during congresses or workshops; it is also necessary to promote these new ideas and to distribute the knowledge by applying new learning strategies. This paper will review the status of computer aided teaching advances during the last decade, with a particular emphasis on photogrammetry, remote sensing, and geomatics. Some best practise examples will be presented featuring prominently recent Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) related to our fields. The consideration of mainly free online learning resources will include a commentary on quality and perceived effectiveness.
Experiences in manpower planning for geomatics
Authors: Fairbairn D.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. This paper addresses the issue of manpower planning in meeting the needs of national and international economies for trained geomatics professionals. Estimated statistics for the numbers of such personnel, and experience in assessing recruitment into the profession reveal considerable skills gaps, particularly in the mature economies of the developed world. In general, centralised manpower planning has little official role in western economies. However, informal surveys of shortfalls in supply of qualified graduates in many fields, including geomatics, are undertaken by professional organisations, educational establishments and consultancies. This paper examines examples of such manpower surveys and considers whether more effective manpower planning would ensure a more efficient geomatics industry in a nation, and what the nature of such an exercise should be.
Analysis of GIS Higher Education on China
Authors: Liu Y. , Shen Y.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The first GIS Bachelor's Program arose in China in 1980s. After more than 30 years of exploration and practice, it is now in the period of full-scale development. The paper collects the data of the number and spatial distribution of colleges and universities with GIS specialty in China. After that it makes comparative analysis of GIS curriculum of three typical universities. Then on the base of data of enrolment and employment in Wuhan University, it discusses the classification of enrolments and graduates and emphasis on the industrial and regional distribution of the graduates. Through the above investigation and analysis, the paper finally draws the conclusion on the features and problems in China's GIS higher education.
Towards a web-based GIS for teaching geo-informatics at under-graduate level in developing countries: a case study of Iran
Authors: Mobasheri A. , Vahidi H. , Guan Q.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. In developing countries, the number of experts and students in geo-informatics domain are very limited compared to experts and students of sciences that could benefit from geo-informatics. In this research, we study the possibility of providing an online education system for teaching geo-informatics at under-graduate level. The hypothesis is that in developing countries, such as Iran, a web-based geo-education system can greatly improve the quantity and quality of knowledge of students in undergraduate level, which is an important step that has to be made in regard of the famous "Geo for all" motto. As a technology for conducting natural and social studies, geo-informatics offers new ways of viewing, representing and analysing information for transformative learning and teaching. Therefore, we design and present a conceptual framework of an education system and elaborate its components as well as the free and open source services and software packages that could be used in this framework for a specific case study: the Web GIS course. The goal of the proposed framework is to develop experimental GI-services in a service-oriented platform for education purposes. Finally, the paper ends with concluding remarks and some tips for future research direction.
Remote Sensing Image Retrieval with Combined Features Of Salient Region
Authors: Shao Z. F. , Zhou W. X. , Cheng Q. M.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Low-level features tend to achieve unsatisfactory retrieval results in remote sensing image retrieval community because of the existence of semantic gap. In order to improve retrieval precision, visual attention model is used to extract salient objects from image according to their saliency. Then color and texture features are extracted from salient objects and regarded as feature vectors for image retrieval. Experimental results demonstrate that our method improves retrieval results and obtains higher precision.
Spatial distribution of the daily precipitation concentration index in Algeria
Authors: Boucherf D. , Benhamrouche A. , Hamadache R. , Bendahmane L. , Martin-Vide J. , Teixeira Nery J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. In this paper, the spatial and temporal distribution of the daily precipitation concentration index (CI) in Algeria (South Mediterranean Sea) has been assessed. Forty-two daily rainfall series based on high quality and fairly regular rainfall records for the period from 1970 to 2008 were used. The daily precipitation concentration index results allowed identifying three climatic zones: the northern country, characterized by coastal regions with CI values between 0.59 and 0.63, the highlands, with values between 0.57 and 0.62 (average of 0.61), except for the area of Biskra (CI = 0.70), and the southern region of the country, with high rainfall concentrations, with values between 0.62 and 0.69. CI is an index related to the rainfall intensity and erosive capacity; therefore, this index has great interest for studies on torrential rainfall and floods.
Quality of Commercial Flavoured Oils and Seed Oils Using a Widespread Analytical Protocol
Authors: Mannina Luisa , Cesa Stefania , Antiochia Riccarda , Vista Silvia , Sobolev Anatoly P. , Vitale Marcello , Cocco Maria Enrica Di , Santini Antonello , Casini Antonio
Published: April 2014

Commercial flavoured olive and olive-sunflower oils and seed oils with particular nutritional properties (e.g. linseed, safflower, sunflower, sesame and rice oils) were analysed using a widespread analytical protocol to have information on their quality and chemical composition. The protocol involved traditional determinations (free acidity, peroxide value, UV and VIS spectrophotometric indices, and fatty acid composition) along with 1H and 13C NMR analyses. Most of flavoured olive oils turned out to be lampante olive oils and not extra virgin as declared in the label on the bottle. In the case of olive-sunflower oils only a minor fraction of olive oil was revealed although these products are particularly expensive and the presence of olive oil is emphasized on the label. In some seed oils, refinement processes, not indicated on the bottle, were highlighted. Some compounds characteristic of specific seed oils were identified in the 1H spectra.
Provenance Studies of Sandstone Facies Exposed Near Igbile Southwestern Nigeria: Petrographic and Geochemical Approach
Authors: R. Ikhane P. , I. Akintola A. , I. Bankole S. , T. Oyinboade Y.
Published: April 2014

The petrography, as well as the major, trace and rare earth element compositions of ten (10) sandstone samples of Maastrichtian Afowo Formation exposed near Igbile, Southwestern Nigeria, have been investigated to determine their provenance, source area weathering conditions, paleoclimate and tectonic setting using petrographic analysis and Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). Results of the petrographic analysis revealed that quartz is the most dominant detrital mineral with (86%) followed by weathered plagioclase feldspar (5.10%) and rock fragments (10.9%). The quartz grain is sub-angular to sub-rounded in shape and the sandstones were classified as quartz arenites, sublitharenites and subarkoses based on framework composition of quartz, feldspar and rock fragment plots. This suggests a recycled orogen source for the sandstones and deposition in a humid climate, evidenced by the weathered feldspars. Eleven (11) major, seventeen (17) trace and fourteen (14) rare earth elements were obtained from the geochemical analysis. The major elements values range in concentration from 0.01%–81.39% with SiO2 being the dominant oxide followed by Al2O3 and Fe2O3 constituting over 95% of the major oxides; K2O, TiO2, Na2O, CaO, MgO and P2O5 made up the remaining 5%. The average ratio of SiO2/Al2O3 valued 4.31 for the sandstone is appreciably high indicating that it has been heavily weathered. The trace elements range in concentration from 0.2 ppm–1651.2 ppm with Zr being the most dominant element an indication of orogenic recycling. The rare earth elements range in concentration from 0.01 ppm–163.7 ppm with Ce having the highest concentration, depicting that the sandstones were deposited in an oxidizing environment. Also, the trace element relationship illustrated from the spider plot shows chemical coherence and uniformity of the sandstones. The chondrite normalized rare earth elements (REE) plot shows enrichment in the Light REE over the heavy REE for the sediment with strong negative Eu anomaly values between (0.57–0.69) suggesting a felsic provenance derived from upper continental crust for the sandstones.
Electrical bioimpedance spectroscopy in time-variant systems: Is undersampling always a problem?
Authors: Abtahi Farhad , Seoane Fernando , Lindecrantz Kaj
Published: April 2014

During the last decades, Electrical Bioimpedance Spectroscopy (EBIS) has been applied mainly by using the frequency-sweep technique, across a range of many different applications. Traditionally, the tissue under study is considered to be time-invariant and dynamic changes of tissue activity are ignored by treating the changes as a noise source. A new trend in EBIS is simultaneous electrical stimulation with several frequencies, through the application of a multi-sine, rectangular or other waveform. This method can provide measurements fast enough to sample dynamic changes of different tissues, such as myocard. This high sampling rate comes at a price of reduction in SNR and the increase in complexity of devices. Although the frequency-sweep technique is often inadequate for monitoring the dynamic changes in a variant system, it can be used successfully in applications focused on the time-invariant or slowly-variant part of a system. However, in order to successfully use frequency-sweep EBIS for monitoring time-variant systems, it is paramount to consider the effects of aliasing and especially the folding of higher frequencies, on the desired frequency e.g. DC level. This paper discusses sub-Nyquist sampling of thoracic EBIS measurements and its application in the case of monitoring pulmonary oedema. It is concluded that by considering aliasing, and with proper implementation of smoothing filters, as well as by using random sampling, frequency-sweep EBIS can be used for assessing time-invariant or slowly-variant properties of time-variant biological systems, even in the presence of aliasing. In general, undersampling is not always a problem, but does always require proper consideration.
Statistical methods for bioimpedance analysis
Authors: Tronstad Christian , Pripp Are H.
Published: April 2014

This paper gives a basic overview of relevant statistical methods for the analysis of bioimpedance measurements, with an aim to answer questions such as: How do I begin with planning an experiment? How many measurements do I need to take? How do I deal with large amounts of frequency sweep data? Which statistical test should I use, and how do I validate my results? Beginning with the hypothesis and the research design, the methodological framework for making inferences based on measurements and statistical analysis is explained. This is followed by a brief discussion on correlated measurements and data reduction before an overview is given of statistical methods for comparison of groups, factor analysis, association, regression and prediction, explained in the context of bioimpedance research. The last chapter is dedicated to the validation of a new method by different measures of performance. A flowchart is presented for selection of statistical method, and a table is given for an overview of the most important terms of performance when evaluating new measurement technology.
New methods to reconstruct clast transport history in different glacial sedimentary environments: Case study for Old Red sandstone clasts from polythermal Hrbyebreen and Bertilbreen valley glaciers, Central Svalbard
Authors: Hanáček Martin , Nývlt Daniel , Flašar Jan , Stacke Václav , Mida Peter , Lehejček Jiří , Tóthová Gabriela , Břežný Michal , Procházková Barbora , Uxa Tomáš , Křenovská Iva
Published: April 2014

The objective of this study were Little Ice Age (LIA) to recent subglacial tills, glaciofluvial sediments of proglacial sandur, esker sediments and sediments of moraine-mound complexes of Hrbyebreen polythermal valley glacier and LIA to recent sediments of lateral moraine, frontal moraine, ice-cored moraine and glaciofluvial sediments of proglacial sandur of Bertilbreen polythermal valley glacier. Fossil (probably early Holocene) subglacial and supraglacial tills and sediments of coarse-grained glaciomarginal delta of Bertilbreen have also been studied. The research focused on Old Red sandstone clasts, for which roundness, shape and striation presence have been investigated. The results from this research led to the proposal of new methodological approaches. It is mainly the covariant plot of striations and RA (the share of striated clasts versus the share of very angular and angular clasts), which effectively differentiate subglacial tills from glaciofluvial sediments and allows for identification of the source material of moraine-mound complexes, especially the oldest, more degraded parts near the maximum LIA glacier extent. The second is the covariant plot of distance and RS index (the distance from the starting point versus the share of subangular and subrounded clasts) to present downstream roundness trends in proglacial glaciofluvial sediments. The research confirmed the crucial role of lithological properties of thinly bedded rocks on the shape of these rock clasts in sediment and a minimum impact of passive and active transport on the clast shape modification.
A Cost-Effective Interdisciplinary Approach to Microbiologic Send-Out Test Use
Authors: Aesif Scott W. , Parenti David M. , Lesky Linda , Keiser John F.
Published: April 2014

Context

Use of reference laboratories for selected laboratory testing (send-out tests) represents a significant source of laboratory costs. As the use of more complex molecular analyses becomes common in the United States, strategies to reduce costs in the clinical laboratory must evolve in order to provide high-value, cost-effective medicine.

Objective

To report a strategy that employs clinical pathology house staff and key hospital clinicians in the effective use of microbiologic send-out testing.

Design

The George Washington University Hospital is a 370-bed academic hospital in Washington, DC. In 2012 all requisitions for microbiologic send-out tests were screened by the clinical pathology house staff prior to final dispensation. Tests with questionable utility were brought to the attention of ordering clinicians through the use of interdisciplinary rounds and direct face-to-face consultation.

Results

Screening resulted in a cancellation rate of 38% of send-out tests, with proportional cost savings. Nucleic acid tests represented most of the tests screened and the largest percentage of cost saved through screening. Following consultation, requested send-out tests were most often canceled because of a lack of clinical indication.

Conclusions

Direct face-to-face consultation with ordering physicians is an effective, interdisciplinary approach to managing the use of send-out testing in the microbiology laboratory.
Postoperative Complications Associated With Perioperative Sirolimus Prior to Pediatric Cardiac Retransplantation
Authors: Goldberg Jason F. , Jeewa Aamir , Dreyer William J. , Adams Gerald J. , Cabrera Antonio G. , Price Jack F. , Heinle Jeffrey S. , Denfield Susan W.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVES

Sirolimus has been used in pediatric cardiac transplantation for the past decade for chronic renal dysfunction, recurrent rejection, and/or coronary allograft vasculopathy. There has been concern regarding the effect of sirolimus on wound healing and other postoperative complications. To date, the pediatric literature on its use is limited and has not specifically addressed its use in the perioperative period following repeat cardiac transplantation.

METHODS

We compared the patients in our institution who received sirolimus before repeat cardiac transplantation to those in the same era who did not receive sirolimus.

RESULTS

Of the 5 patients in the study group, 5 (100%) developed pleural effusions vs 1 (17%) in the control group (p=0.013). There was no increase in mortality in the sirolimus group, and there were no significant differences in renal dysfunction, serious bacterial infection, rejection, or postoperative length of stay.

CONCLUSIONS

In this small data set, there was a statistically significant increase in pleural effusions in patients on sirolimus. Further study is needed to develop an appropriate strategy to avoid postoperative complications in this patient population.
Drug Utilization, Dosing, and Costs After Implementation of Intravenous Acetaminophen Guidelines for Pediatric Patients
Authors: Fusco Nicholas M. , Parbuoni Kristine , Morgan Jill A.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this evaluation of medication use were to characterize the use of intravenous acetaminophen at our institution and to determine if acetaminophen was prescribed at age-appropriate dosages per institutional guidelines, as well as to evaluate compliance with restrictions for use. Total acquisition costs associated with intravenous acetaminophen usage is described as well.

METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated the use of acetaminophen in pediatric patients younger than 18 years of age, admitted to a tertiary care hospital, who received at least 1 dose of intravenous acet-aminophen between August 1, 2011, and January 31, 2012.

RESULTS

A total of 52 doses of intravenous acetaminophen were administered to 31 patients during the 6-month study period. Most patients were admitted to the otorhinolaryngology service (55%), and the majority of doses were administered either in the operating room (46%) or in the intensive care unit (46%). Nineteen doses (37%) of intravenous acetaminophen were administered to patients who did not meet institutional guidelines' eligibility criteria. Three patients received single doses of intravenous acetaminophen that were greater than the dose recommended for their age. One patient during the study period received more than the recommended 24-hour maximum cumulative dose for acetaminophen. Total acquisition cost of intravenous acetaminophen therapy over the 6-month study period was $530.40.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous acetaminophen was used most frequently among pediatric patients admitted to the otorhinolaryngology service during the perioperative period. Nineteen doses (37%) were administered to patients who did not meet the institutional guidelines' eligibility criteria. Our data support reinforcing the availability of institutional guidelines to promote cost-effective use of intravenous acetaminophen while minimizing the prescription of inappropriate doses.
Ethacrynic Acid Continuous Infusions in Critically Ill Pediatric Patients
Authors: Miller Jamie L. , Schaefer Jared , Tam Matthew , Harrison Donald L. , Johnson Peter N.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to describe dosage regimens and treatment outcomes in critically ill children receiving ethacrynic acid continuous infusions (CI).

METHODS

This retrospective cross-sectional study evaluated patients less than 18 years of age who received ethacrynic acid CI with a duration exceeding 12 hours, from January 1, 2007, through January 31, 2012. The primary objective was to determine the mean/median doses of ethacrynic acid CI. Secondary objectives were to assess surrogate efficacy markers (e.g., urine output [UOP], fluid balance) and the number of patients with electrolyte abnormalities or metabolic alkalosis. Descriptive statistics were used. A series of repeated measures analyses of variance were conducted to assess differences in surrogate efficacy markers and in adverse events that occurred pre-, mid-, and posttherapy.

RESULTS

Nine patients were included. The mean ± SD initial and maximum doses (mg/kg/hr) were 0.13 ± 0.07 (median 0.1; range, 0.08–0.3) and 0.17 ± 0.08 (median, 0.16; range 0.09–0.3), respectively. The median UOP (mL/kg/hr) pre-, mid-, and postinfusions (interquartile range [IQR]) were 2.4 (1.8–3.2), 4.2 (3.5–6), and 4 (3.4–5.3), respectively. The median fluid balance (mL; IQR) was 189 (90–526), −258 (−411.7 to 249) and −113.5 (−212.5 to 80.2), respectively. There were statistically significant differences in UOP and fluid balance pre- versus mid-therapy (0.014) and pre- versus posttherapy (p=0.010). No significant differences were noted with magnesium and potassium. Five children (55.6%) developed metabolic alkalosis.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides preliminary evidence for ethacrynic acid CI in children. The median initial dose and maximum dose in this cohort were 0.13 mg/kg/hr and 0.17 mg/kg/hr, respectively. Larger prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Trenchless refurbishment of a Victorian‐age brick sewer in Kolkata
Authors: Basu Nilangshu Bhusan , Boral Somenath , Mondal Sushil Kumar , Dey Ayanangshu
Published: April 2014

Rehabilitating a century‐old sewer system in the heart of Kolkata, India, had numerous challenges, but the work was made easier with the use of glass‐reinforced plastic liners that brought these ancient brick conduits into the twenty‐first century.
Understanding and leveraging social norms: Changing behavior by tapping into our need to conform
Authors: Goetz Melanie K.
Published: April 2014

The technique of mirroring can be adapted by utilities to help educate consumers about the value of water.
Bring Your Whole Self to Work: Maturation of Team Work Through Diversity
Authors: McGinness Christopher
Published: April 2014

Several years ago I attended the Water Professionals conference hosted by the Kentucky‐Tennessee Section in Memphis, Tenn. The section held a diversity track at its conference. One of the sessions was led by the vice‐president for diversity at FedEx; during the session she touched briefly on the topic of bringing your whole self to work. This concept really resonated with me. A sidebar is included with this article: “Diversity And Member Inclusion Events At ACE14.”
El cine de Irán desde el ámbito académico español
Authors: Espinosa Mario De la Torre
Published: April 2014

Reseña del libreo Santo, Clara Janeth (2012) Cine iraní. Madrid: Icono14.
Perceptions of HIV‐related health services in Zambia for people with disabilities who are HIV‐positive
Authors: Nixon Stephanie A , Cameron Cathy , Hanass‐Hancock Jill , Simwaba Phillimon , Solomon Patricia E , Bond Virginia A , Menon Anitha , Richardson Emma , Stevens Marianne , Zack Elisse
Published: April 2014

Introduction

Despite the emerging body of literature on increased vulnerability to HIV among people with disabilities (PWDs), there is a dearth of evidence related to experiences of PWDs who have become HIV‐positive. This priority was identified by a disability advocacy organization in Lusaka, Zambia, where the prevalence of HIV and of disability is each approximately 15%. The purpose of this study was to explore perceptions and experiences of HIV‐related health services for PWDs who are also living with HIV in Lusaka, Zambia.

Methods

This qualitative, interpretive study involved in‐depth, semi‐structured, one‐on‐one interviews with two groups of participants in Lusaka, Zambia: 21 PWDs who had become HIV‐positive, and 11 people working in HIV and/or disability. PWDs had physical, hearing, visual and/or intellectual impairments. Interviews were conducted in English, Nyanja, Bemba or Zambian sign language. Descriptive and thematic analyses were conducted by a multidisciplinary, international research team.

Results

Participants described their experiences with HIV‐related health services in terms of the challenges they faced. In particular, they encountered three main challenges while seeking care and treatment: (1) disability‐related discrimination heightened when seeking HIV services, (2) communication barriers and related concerns with confidentiality, and (3) movement and mobility challenges related to seeking care and collecting antiretroviral therapy. These experiences were further shaped by participants’ profound concerns about poverty and unmet basic needs.

Discussion

This study demonstrates how PWDs who are HIV‐positive have the same HIV care, treatment and support needs as able‐bodied counterparts, but face avoidable barriers to care. Many challenges mirror concerns identified with HIV prevention, suggesting that efforts to promote inclusion and reduce stigma could have widespread benefits.

Conclusions

Despite the growing body of literature on increased risk of exposure to HIV among HIV‐negative PWDs, this is the first published study to examine perceptions of testing, treatment and other HIV services for PWDs who have become HIV‐positive. Findings reveal far‐reaching opportunities for improving the quality of care for this population.
Managing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Across the Disease Spectrum
Authors: Schorr Alan B.
Published: April 2014

The management of diabetes mellitus, in particular the various forms of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), has become increasingly complex over the past several decades. In the 1970s through the 1980s, options were limited. Standard treatment consisted of diet, exercise, combinations of diet, exercise, and insulin, or the use of biguanides, sulfonylureas, or both medications. Recent advances have given more choices for physicians and patients.1
Managing Recent-Onset Diabetes: Choosing Durable, Well-Tolerated Therapies and Understanding the Role of Incretin-Based Therapies
Authors: Shubrook Jay H.
Published: April 2014

Management of recent-onset diabetes offers osteopathic physicians the opportunity to work with patients to set treatment goals and expectations for this progressive yet manageable disease, as well as intervene early to reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications. Starting effective therapy early—and intensifying therapy appropriately—to achieve and maintain glycemic goals has been shown to reduce microvascular risks and produce legacy effects that may have macrovascular benefits. Metformin remains a cornerstone of therapy for those patients who can tolerate it. Early combination therapy that is well tolerated reduces risks of hypoglycemia or unwanted weight gain, improves patient adherence, and addresses the multifactoral pathophysiology of even recent-onset diabetes. Incretin-based therapies have been shown to be effective across the spectrum of type 2 diabetes mellitus, including recent-onset diabetes. The present article reviews the use of incretin-based therapies early in the disease process of type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Preparation of Tetrahydroisoquinoline‐3‐ones Via Cyclization of Phenyl Acetamides Using Eaton's Reagent
Authors: Yang Qiang , Ulysse Luckner G. , McLaws Mark D. , Keefe Daniel K. , Guzzo Peter R. , Haney Brian P.
Published: April 2014

Chlorophenylacetic acid

Thionyl chloride

Methylamine

2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐
N
‐

Methylacetamide

Eaton's reagent

Paraformaldehyde
Anhydrous Hydration of Nitriles to Amides:p‐Carbomethoxybenzamide
Authors: Kang Dahye , Lee Jinwoo , Lee Hee‐Yoon
Published: April 2014

p‐Carbomethoxylbenzamide

Methylp‐cyanobenzoate

Wilkinson's catalyst

Acetaldoxime
Preparation of Enantioenriched Homoallylic Primary Amines
Authors: González-Gómez JoséC. , Foubelo Francisco , Yus Miguel
Published: April 2014

(

S
s

)‐
N‐tert‐
Butanesulfinamide

Indium

Decanal

Titanium(IV) ethoxide

Allyl bromide

(
rac)‐
1‐Tridecen‐4‐amine
o‐Aminobenzaldehyde, Redox‐Neutral Aminal Formation and Synthesis of Deoxyvasicinone
Authors: Zhang Chen , Kanta De Chandra , Seidel Daniel
Published: April 2014

o‐Aminobenzaldehdye

o‐Nitrobenzaldehyde

Iron powder

Pyrrolidine

1,2,3,3a,4,9‐Hexahydropyrrolo[2,1‐b]quinazolin‐9(1H)‐one,2,3‐dihydro‐

Deoxyvasicinone

Potassium permanganate
Multicomponent Synthesis of Tertiary Diarylmethylamines: 1‐((4‐Fluorophenyl)(4‐methoxyphenyl)methyl)piperidine
Authors: Le Gall Erwan , Martens Thierry
Published: April 2014

Acetonitrile

Zinc dust

1,2‐Dibromoethane

Trifluroacetic acid

4‐Bromoanisole

4‐Flurobenzaldehyde

Piperidine

Cobalt bromide