bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Congratulatory Message
Authors: Altintas Yusuf ,   Professor Dr., Manufacturing Automation Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of British Columbia
Published: April 2017

International Journal of Automation Technology (IJAT) was initiated by Prof. Takeuchi to fill the gap between manufacturing and its application in the presently automated factories ten years ago. The journal has received strong record of submissions which have passed through rigorous review process by highly established academics in the field. As a result, IJAT has become one of the key journals to disseminate research results from traditional manufacturing processes to most advanced nano-micro manufacturing, smart actuators, robots, micro-manipulators, control methods, and a number of key automation applications.

The Editors-in-Chief Prof. Takeuchi, associate editors, and editorial officer Mr. Wakai for the outstanding efforts which brought the journal to a world class level in past ten years. We appreciate all authors who contributed to the journal with their articles which made the journal successful.

Yusuf Altintas

October 31, 2016
Teleoperating System for Manipulating a Moon Exploring Robot on the Earth
Authors: Hoshino Kiyoshi ,   University of Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan, Igo Naoki , Tomida Motomasa , Kotani Hajime ,   National Institute of Technology, Asahikawa College,   Crescent, Inc., Tokyo, Japan
Published: April 2017

Such a teleoperating system has been needed that enables scientists on the earth to make a moon-exploring robot carry out geological explorations on the moon by means of the same movements as their movements on the earth. Studies have been carried out on moon-exploring robot teleoperating systems to reproduce the operator’s movements. However, an existing complete-contact type of unit for measuring the movements has disadvantages in that it is large-sized, requiring skill acquirement and it is likely to restrict the operator’s free movements, making precise movements impossible. To overcome these disadvantages, we have made a study on a teleoperating system equipped with an almost non-contact type of movement measuring unit. It was verified whether our originally-developed teleoperating system proposed herein might be capable of making the robot perform fine hand movement tasks with no need for skill acquirement and no restriction on operator’s movements. The result demonstrated that the proposed teleoperating system is capable of manipulating the robot by means of operator’s movements, which reproduce those in geological explorations on the moon.
Ketika Aku dan Kamu Menjadi Kita: Dialog Misi Penginjilan Kristen dengan Dakwah Islam Menggunakan Pendekatan Teologi Interkultural dalam Konteks Indonesia
Authors: Siahaan Daniel Syafaat
Published: April 2017

Evangelism and da'wah are two obligations or responsibilities of people, Christians and muslims. I wonder how long these two religions involved in a "cold war" or even a real war, because of arrogant fundamentalist notion. Arrogant because with full consciousness has monopolized the truth, and act like they own the only true God. God has been reduced to their own and considers others deify the wrong god. As a result, the shape of evangelism is not far from the impression of christianization, and the form of da'wah not far from the impression of islamization. Whereas, we find the plural phenomenon in Indonesia. In fact, with the philosophy of Bhinneka Tunggal Ika, Indonesian society should be able to appreciate and preserve otherness in harmony better. But reality says different. Christianization and islamization, plural occurs. Intention to write this article, arose from this concern. How evangelism and da'wah should be done in the context of the plurality of Indonesia, so in the end, You and I become Us.
Going beyond expectations: banks strategies attract and retain or deter tertiary students’ clientele
Authors: Lorraine Motlhabane Ketsia
Published: April 2017

The study assesses whether the banks’ strategies help to attract and retain or deter tertiary students from their businesses. It aims to highlight the banks’ need to go beyond expectations in nurturing their students’ clientele. The study can be the banks’ stepping-stone into the seemingly neglected tertiary student (TS) market. Using observation method and bank consultants’ interviews, this study probes South Africa’s (SA) major banks’ service time-lag together with student product offers and information accessibility. The study focused on whether different banks’ product offers, costing and service quality do attract and retain or deter student clients. The questions were based on students’ saving/cheque accounts, credit card and loan facilities accessibility.
Findings. Product offers and information were inadequate from branch visits and website searches less informative. Queues time-lag differed from bank to bank, but, overall, unreasonable for TS market with product limitations and generalized information not specific to students’ needs. Further research can be undertaken to gain in-depth understanding of whether urban banks’ strategies for students are distinct to those of semi-rural areas, which was the scope of this study.
Banks services are significant for maintaining students’ profiles, providing traceable trails, of sponsors, families and financial transactions, which will be valuable even for periods beyond their academic life. Many live away from their secured homes, expected to survive with limited resources and time constraint. Nurturing these relationship would prepare students for the financial market demands much to the benefit of all stakeholders.
The impact of the independent review on SME access to bank finance: the case of South Africa
Authors: Coetzee Francois , W. Buys Pieter
Published: April 2017

It is accepted that SMEs are major contributors to global employment and GDP. Similarly, SMEs’ reliance on bank finance to maintain financial and operational sustainability is also globally accepted. In 2008, the Company’s Act of South Africa was amended to scrap the statutory audit requirement for qualifying entities, with the aim of alleviating the administrative burden of SMEs and increase their sustainability potential. As sound as this strategy may have been, a grey area arose in that banks may still insist on audited financial statements. This study investigates the question as to whether South African banks still consider audited financial statements as key in evaluating SME bank finance applications. This was done by analyzing the major banks’ requirements per their policies and follow-up discussions with loan officers. Contrary to expectations, the historic focus per audited financial statements was considered of much less importance than progressive future-oriented management statements and reports.
DAKWAH RETORIS DALAM KARYA SASTRA NOVEL “HABIBIE & AINUN” KARYA BJ. HABIBIE
Authors: Rahmah Mariyatul Norhidayati
Published: April 2017

There should be at least four rethorical principles in conducting da’wah. The first principle is an emotional appeal, which means a kind of touching da’wah communication that involves emotions, expectation and affection of the mad’u. Secondly, the da’i (preacher) should use persuasive and gently ways as well as clear and understandable languages. Thirdly, he should understand the condition of community so his da’wah could become soothing. The last principle is enabling to give strong arguments. The novel might become a medium to deliver the messages of da’wah. The novel of Habibie & Ainun does not only a philological and romance novel, but also a kind of cultural, political and da’wah novel. Its feature is not only in using rhetorical language, but indeed it was also written based on personal stories including his life experiences and love story of a religious man that tremendously inspires the readers. In this novel, the rhetorical da'wah is expressed in various ways following the context of life journey as well as the writer’s mood and passion namely kinds of persuasive and touching da’wah, contextual da’wah, and argumentative rethorical da’wah.

***

Prinsip Retorika dalam berdakwah paling tidak mengandung empat hal:  emotional appeals (imbauan emosional) yakni sebuah tindak komunikasi dakwah yang menyentuh hati sasaran dakwah, melibatkan emosi, harapan dan kasih sayang;menggunakan bahasapersuasive, lemah lembut, jelas, dan mudah dipahami; memahami kondisi masyarakat sehingga mengarah pada dakwah yang menyejukkan hati; dan disertai dengan argumentasi yang kuat. Novel dapat digunakan sebagai media untuk menyampaikan pesan-pesan dakwah.Novel Habibie & Ainun, bukan hanya novel sastra dan novel cinta, tetapi juga novel budaya, politik dan novel dakwah.Dan keistimewaan Novel Habibie & Ainun ini disamping bahasanya yang retoris, adalah lebih dari sekedar sebuah cerita, novel ini ditulis oleh pengarangnya berdasarkan kisah pribadi, apa yang terjadi dalam hidupnya, sebuah kisah cinta insan beriman yang memberi insprirasi yang luar biasa bagi pembaca. Dakwah retoris dalamnovel ini terpancar dalam berbagai bentuk mengiringi situasi perjalanan hidup, kejiwaan dan emosi sang penulis, ada dakwah retoris menyentuh hati, persuasive, memperhatikan kondisi sasaran dakwah hingga retorika argumentatif.
Desempenho de Cultivares de Milho Destinados para Produção de Milho Verde e Silagem
Authors: Couto Charlismilã Amorim do , Silva Érica Munique da , Silva Ayure Gomes da , Oliveira Marco Tulio Pimenta , Vasconcelos João Carlos de , Silva Adelmo Resende da , Sobreira Elisângela De Albuquerque , Moura Jadsom Bélem de
Published: April 2017

Várias tecnologias ligadas à cultura do milho (Zea Mays L.) estão sendo implantadas no Brasil. A utilização de cultivares de alto potencial genético, juntamente com a melhoria das condições de instalação e condução da cultura, são alternativas para um melhor desempenho. O objetivo dessa pesquisa foi avaliar as características agronômicas de um grupo de cultivares de milho para produção de milho verde, silagem e grãos em Goianésia, Goiás. O delineamento foi o de blocos casualisados, com 37 tratamentos e três repetições. Foram utilizados genótipos de milho, provenientes do programa de Ensaio Nacional de Cultivares, coordenado pela Embrapa Milho e Sorgo. As parcelas foram compostas de uma linha (3,80 m x 0,80 m). Os dados foram submetidos a análises de variância, sendo realizadas as comparações de médias pelo teste de Scott-knott (5%). Por meio da análise verificou-se efeitos significativos entre as cultivares, indicando variabilidade genética. Concluímos que a cultivar CD 324PRO2 destacou nos resultados para características gerais, as cultivares HTMV1, AG1051 e AL PIRATININGA para características de milho verde e as cultivares CD 324PRO2, AL AVARE e CD 3715PRO para características de silagem.
Utilização de bases cartográficas para identificação e caracterização de áreas verdes públicas no município de Joinville, Santa Catarina
Authors: Silva Eliane Da Graça , Batista Felipe Romer , Bachtold Gerson , Messias-Oliveira Ricardo Alexandre , Esemann-Quadros Karin
Published: April 2017

No perímetro urbano do município de Joinville existem diversas áreas verdes com diferentes graus de degradação, não ocupadas por equipamentos públicos. Baseando-se em análise de arquivos vetoriais com o uso dos softwares ArcGIS e gvSIG, imagem aérea raster de 2010 e dados do Sistema de Informações Municipais Georreferenciadas (Simgeo), cruzaram-se informações referentes ao uso do solo, da vegetação, da declividade, da hidrografia dos lotes públicos com mais de um hectare, estimando-se a quantidade, área, localização e existência ou não de vegetação. Um total de 307 lotes públicos foi amostrado dentro do perímetro urbano, somando uma área total de 6.365.790,742 m2. Destes, 52% apresentam algum tipo de vegetação e 48% são ocupados por equipamentos públicos ou estão potencialmente degradados. A maioria localiza-se no Distrito Industrial ou na periferia do perímetro urbano. Um mapa foi construído, com a localização dos lotes. Essas informações podem servir de base para a recuperação dos passivos ambientais localizados em áreas públicas no perímetro urbano de Joinville e evidenciam a necessidade de um diagnóstico mais detalhado para determinar seu estado de conservação. As áreas verdes são de fundamental importância para a saúde e a qualidade de vida da população, merecendo a devida atenção do poder público.
Bosques ribereños del trópico húmedo de México: un caso de estudio y aspectos críticos para una restauración exitosa
Authors: Meli Paula , Ruiz Lucía , Aguilar Rocío , Rabasa Alejandra , Rey Benayas José María , Carabias Julia
Published: April 2017

Los bosques ribereños albergan una biodiversidad importante y en ellos se desarrollan funciones ecológicas esenciales que repercuten en la provisión de servicios ecosistémicos relevantes para la sociedad. Las perturbaciones de origen antrópico frecuentemente exceden la resiliencia natural de estos ecosistemas y, en consecuencia, desencadenan procesos de degradación. La restauración ecológica busca recuperar la biodiversidad y los servicios de los bosques ribereños, pero su éxito depende de varios aspectos de contexto. En este trabajo se utiliza un estudio de caso para ejemplificar la problemática de la restauración desde una perspectiva ‘integral’ y se discuten aspectos ecológicos, socio-económicos y legales que pueden influir en el éxito de la restauración de estos bosques. Si bien los aspectos ecológicos han sido considerablemente desarrollados, aún falta información relacionada con las limitaciones económicas (p. ej. los costos de producción), sociales (p. ej. la aceptación social) y legales (p.ej. la incorporación de la restauración ecológica en programas públicos), para ser aplicados a escalas más amplias. La estimación de los servicios ecosistémicos que podrían restablecerse a partir de la restauración de bosques ribereños aportará a la integración de estos aspectos. El abordaje de estos aspectos a escala local aportará información para el desarrollo futuro de estrategias a escala regional más eficientes en términos de la relación beneficio ecológico–costo socioeconómico. Se discuten algunas recomendaciones relacionadas con la conservación, el manejo y la restauración de los bosques ribereños en el trópico húmedo de México.
A Survey of Accessibility to Australia’s Phase 2 Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs to Patient Barriers
Authors: Van Gaans Deborah , Tonkin Andrew
Published: April 2017

Despite the evidence to support cardiac rehabilitation, existing services remain underutilised. Accessibility to those services is a major factor in the underutilisation of current programs. Available literature on barriers to the accessibility of out-patient cardiac rehabilitation services were reviewed. Using Penchansky and Thomas’ (1981) five dimensions of accessibility as a structural framework, the information obtained from this review was then used to create a formal questionnaire which was sent to each of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs within Australia in 2007-2008 (n=401). The survey highlighted that the need for a referral, the disease the patient has, the distance required for travel, whether group and individual sessions are provided, flexibility in service delivery setting, hours of operation, cost, and the range of program components, significantly limit patient accessibility to Phase 2 Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs. Completion rates were low for most programs. The Survey revealed that patient accessibility to Phase 2 Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs includes various socio-economic and geographic impediments that can prevent or limit service use. While barriers to cardiac rehabilitation are well known, service providers need to ensure these patient barriers are taken into consideration when providing a Phase 2 Cardiac Rehabilitation Program to improve their accessibility.
Evaluation of odontometric methods in immature permanent teeth: Research for a better practise
Authors: Vicko Kristina , Nikolic-Ivosevic Jelena , Petrovic Bojan
Published: April 2017

Background/Aim. Determination of correct working length is one of the keys to success in root canal treatment. It provides efficient canal cleaning and shaping, a three-dimensional chermetic obturation and an optimal healing procees following root apex formation. The aim of this work was to evaluate and compare the accuracy and applicability of working lengths determined in permanent immature teeth in vivo using different clinical methods. Methods. The research was conducted at the Dental Clinic of Vojvodina in Novi Sad, the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry. A sample of 30 canals of young permanent teeth were selected for the research. Inclusion criteria were: a need for endodontic treatmant, young permanent teeth, teeth with incomplete apex formation according to Demirijans stages F and G determined on radiography. Exclusion criteria: more than 3 years from eruption, pathological and iatrogenic resorption of the apex. The canal lenght was measured first on the initial radiograph used later as the parameter for comparison with various clinical methods. Results. The greatest average difference of measured working lengths was found by using electroodontometry and the paper point method afterwards. Regarding individual measurements, the most unprecise reading was with electroodontometry and tactile method up to 5 mm difference, and 4.6 mm was the maximal deviation for radiographic method. A deviation was defined by matching the measurements with a canal length measured on the initial radiograph. Our results showed that there was a difference between observed methods, although there was no statistical significance. Conclusion. The radiographic method and tactile method stand out as dominant methods for odontometry in permanent immature teeth, thanks to highly accurate readings, while the electroodontometry is considered the most unreliable method for determining working length in immature permanent teeth.
Can troponin-I be used as an independent predictor of cardiac dysfunction after supraventricular tachycardia in children with structural normal heart?
Authors: Simovic Aleksandra , Tanaskovic-Nestorovic Jelena , Knezevic Sanja , Vuletic Biljana , Stojkovic Andjelka , Jeremic Dejan , Jovanovic Milan , Vulovic Maja
Published: April 2017

Introduction. Elevated cardiac troponin gives excellent accuracy in the identification of myocardial damage in children, but it can also be elevated in a series of other diseases. Case report. We presented two children thirteen years of age with a high serum level of troponin-I after an acute episode of supraventricular tachycardia. We analyzed troponin- I levels in correlation with the maximum heart rate, duration of tachycardia and systolic left ventricular function (ejection fraction and fractional shortening). Conclusion. Abnormal troponin level can be seen in children with sustained supraventricular tachycardia and normal heart. Caution is advised in diagnosing cardiac dysfunction in children with supraventricular tachycardia and elevated troponin levels.
Attachment and emotional regulation in adolescents with depression
Authors: Kosutic Zeljka , Mitkovic-Voncina Marija , Dukanac Vesna , Lazarevic Milica , Rakovic-Dobroslavic Ivana , Soljaga Mina , Peulic Aleksandar , Djuric Mina , Pesic Danilo , Bradic Zagorka , Lecic-Tosevski Dusica
Published: April 2017

Background/Aim. Attachment and emotion regulation skills are recognized as important factors in the development of depression, but their specifics have rarely been discussed in clinical adolescent population. The aim of our study was to investigate attachment and emotion regulation strategies in adolescents with depression. Methods. The sample consisted of 101 adolescents, age 16 to 24, divided into three groups: 1) 41 adolescents with the diagnosis of depressive disorder; 2) 30 adolescents with the diagnosis of anxiety disorder; 3) 30 health adolescents (without psychiatric diagnosis). The assessment was done by the following instruments: the Socio-demographic questionnaire; the Semistructured clinical interview (SCID-I) for the Diagnostic and Stratistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV); the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI); the Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA) and Emotional Regulation Questionnaire (ERQ). Data were analyzed using MANCOVA and partial correlation, with gender, age and birth order as covariates. Results. The adolescents with depressive disorders had less secure attachment to mother and peers than the health adolescents and less secure attachment to father comparing to other two groups (MANCOVA F = 4.571; p = 0.000). The adolescents with anxiety disorder had less secure attachment to father and peers compared to the healthy adolescents group (p < 0.05). The depressed adolescents used the strategy of cognitive reappraisal less often than both control groups (MANCOVA F = 5.200; p = 0.001). Subjective experience of depressive symptoms was related to insecure attachments to both parents and peers (r = -0.457; -0.436; -0.349; p = 0.000), as well as to lower use of cognitive reappraisal (r = -0.446; p = 0.000). Conclusion. Our findings related the adolescent depression to insecure attachment in all domains, with the specific weakness in emotion regulation (weak cognitive reappraisal). The findings could have practical implications for preventive and therapeutic interventions.
Development of an Experimental Platform to Drive the Switched Reluctance Machine
Authors: R. Fidelis  , G. Viajante  , D. Alves  , F. Mendonça  , D. Andrade  , O.Souto  , L.Wezs  , L. Coutinho
Published: April 2017

This paper presents the implementation of an experimental platform for the study and drive the Switched Reluctance Machine (SRM) 6x4 as generator and motor. The platform allows trials for the reluctance machine under various operating conditions such as speed, excitement and magnetization variable angles (θoff), allowing study their behavior in wind generation. The test parameters are fully configurable through an application developed specifically for this job. It was also used a system of acquisition and processing of low-cost and high-performance data (DSP / FPGA), which guarantees the precise activation and control of all experimental platform. The experimental results are presented and discussed.
Impact of a High Penetration of Electric Vehicles and Photovoltaic Inverters on Power Quality in an Urban Residential Grid Part I – Unbalance
Authors: F. Möller  , J. Meyer  , M. Radauer
Published: April 2017

This paper presents a measurement-based assessment of the impact of a high penetration of plug-in electric vehicles with on-board charger (EVC) and photovoltaic inverters (PVI) on Power Quality in a public low voltage (LV) network. The paper consists of two parts. This first part is focused on the impact on unbalance, the second part is related to harmonics. The results are based on extensive measurements in an urban residential grid with almost 100 households (HH), 43 PVIs and 36 EVCs. The impact of PVI and EVC on unbalance at different levels of aggregation is described in detail. At first the individual impact of a single PVI and EVC is discussed for different operating conditions. In particular, a sunny day, a cloudy day and hours during the night are used for PVI, while periods of charging and periods of no charging are considered for EVC. Next sections analyse the interaction between PVI, EVC and residual load at household level as well as the overall impact of PVIs and EVCs in the low voltage grid. The analysis considers current unbalance and voltage unbalance.
Solar energy: a source for water disinfection in Colombia
Authors: Carmen Leonor Barajas Forero
Published: April 2017

Colombia, due to its geographical position, receives a high solar radiation throughout the year. This implies that the country has great potential for solar energy production, but can also use this resource to enhance the living conditions of its inhabitants by using solar radiation to improve the quality of drinking water. Mainly in rural areas, the country has serious problems with drinking water for its inhabitants. This generates high morbidity and mortality, especially in children under five. The main purpose of this preliminary work was to investigate if weather conditions in northeastern Colombia permit to use the sun's energy to disinfect water from water sources which are normally heavily contaminated. The results are encouraging and may lead to establish programs for appropriate use of this technology in areas where the construction of treatment plants very difficult.
Optimal network reconfiguration for congestion management optimization in active distribution networks
Authors: M. Alonso  , H.Amarís  , B. Rojas  , D. Della Giustina  , A. Dedè  , Z. Al-Jassim
Published: April 2017

Recently, the distribution networks are working close to their physical device limits. When congestion takes place, distributed switches can be controlled to change their status in order to find a new optimal network configuration that solves that congestion. In this paper, a new methodology for congestion management by means of distributed network reconfiguration is presented. Switches and controllable voltage units such as PV units were used in the optimization process. The optimization process is guided by a weighted objective function that takes into account real power losses as well as operational limits of the power system under study. The methodology is tested in an Italian real power distribution system.
Utilising a cluster-based power optimisation in micro grids
Authors: B. Born  , J. Teuscher  , W. Schufft
Published: April 2017

A cluster-based power optimisation is an effective solution to improve the overall performance of renewable energy systems in a low voltage grid. The system, combined with several decentralized storages could increase the possible amount of integrated photovoltaic systems in a specific low voltage grid. Furthermore, the optimisation algorithm could shift energy from the times points with very high generation to high load in the grid.
Impact of Techno-economic Context on the Continuity of Supply of the European Distribution Networks
Authors: N. Pereira  , S. Faias  , J. Esteves
Published: April 2017

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Integration of Solar Energy Resource into Agro-Energy Cooperative Districts: A Case Study based on Solar Powered Irrigation Pumps
Authors: A. Rubio-Aliaga  , A. Molina-García  , J.M.Sánchez-Lozano  , M.S. García-Cascales
Published: April 2017

The use of renewable energy resources to decrease both energy dependence and climate change has become a usual solution promoted by most developed countries. Nowadays, a significant number of governments have supported the integration of renewables in a sort of energy sectors, such as industrial customers or rural areas. Under this framework, the present paper describes a case study to integrate solar resource into rural areas for irrigation pumping purposes. This study has been carried out in two Mediterranean countries with similar solar radiation levels but with significantly different energy policies: Spain and Morocco. Results provide an analysis of agro-energy cooperative districts to optimize energy requirements in terms of water pumping and under scarcity conditions, typically found in current Mediterranean areas. Real data from both rural areas are also included in the paper. The study has been carried out by means of a Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applied to both selected areas.
Analysis on Stability in Control of Active Power Filter in Electric Grid with Megawatt DFIG Wind Farm Connected
Authors: Nguyen Gia Minh Thao  , C. Gebran  , Kentaro Kofuji  , Toru Jintsugawa  , Chikashi Nakazawa
Published: April 2017

This paper presents a pretty comprehensive analysis on stability issues of control for active power filter (APF) installed in an electric grid where megawatt doubly fed induction generator (DFIG) wind farm is connected. Major objectives of this paper are to evaluate roles and impacts of main design parameters in the controller of APF. As well, the ultimate goal is to determine the stable value range and the suitable-performance value range for a proportional control coefficient in APF. Wherein, firstly, background theories of the voltage-detection control method for APF to reduce the voltage and current distortions on the electric grid are described. Furthermore, an appropriate equivalent circuit of a typical grid-connected DFIG wind farm with APF to analyze impedance in the frequency domain is introduced. After that, mathematical formulas and algorithm to determine the stable value range and suitable performance value range for the control coefficient in APF are proposed. Finally, results obtained with the suggested equivalent circuit and impedance analysis technique are shown and discussed in detail. Besides, different operation cases of the controller of APF and the illustrative DFIG wind farm, including parametric uncertainties of the electric grid, also are examined to assess effectiveness of the proposed analysis algorithm.
Solar Energy Systems Course for Energy Engineering Students in the Context of the European Higher Education Area (EHEA)
Authors: Herminio Martínez-García  , Jordi Cosp-Vilella  , J. Luís Durán-Moyano
Published: April 2017

The Bologna Process is a voluntary intergovernmental European cooperation initiative that led to the creation of the named European Higher Education Area (EHEA). EHEA was formed to promote mobility, increase academic recognition and attract students and staff from around the world to Europe. In this framework, since 2009, the Barcelona College of Industrial Engineering (Escuela Universitaria de Ingeniería Técnica Industrial de Barcelona – EUETIB) of the Technical University of Catalonia – BarcelonaTech (UPC) is offering the 4-year Bachelor Degree in Energy Engineering since 2009 with a total number of ECTS credits of 240. Current article deals with the inclusion of the sizing and design of solar energy systems in the context of this degree. In particular, and although this topic was eventually abandoned in the initial degree curriculum, the paper deals with the development of a 3rd-year course, Energy Integration, that focuses on this topic.
Mapeamento das pesquisas sobre números inteiros no Brasil no período de 2010 a 2016
Authors: Borelli Suzete , Pires Célia
Published: April 2017

Investigamos as produções científicas sobre números inteiros relativos entre o período de 2010 a 2016 como forma de mapear os conhecimentos produzidos, uma vez que esse levantamento contribui para o desenvolvimento de uma tese que pretende compreender os impactos na formação de professores de Matemática. Recorremos a bancos de dados como CAPES, Biblioteca Digital Brasileira, entre outros, de forma a conseguir levantar resumos, perguntas, principais re sultados e metodologias de pesquisa, que foram utilizados nas produções. Entre os resultados encontrados percebemos que as preocupações estão maisrelacionadas a busca de estratégias didáticas que permitam uma maior aprendizagem dos alunos nesse conteúdo. Também percebemos que nas teses mostra se maior preocupação com a definição da metodologia do que nas dissertações. Detectamos, também, uma lacuna em relação ao trabalho de formação de professores sobre essa temática, uma vez que muitas das dificuldades ap ontadas estão relacionadas ao ensino e aos obstáculos epistemológicos desse conteúdo.
Palavras-chave: Números inteiros relativos. Mapeamento de pesquisa. Ensino e aprendizagem de números inteiros. Metodologias de pesquisa.
Productivity and Cost Analysis of Forest Harvesting Operation in Matang Mangrove Forest, Perak, Malaysia
Authors: Tindit Albert Empawi , Gandaseca Seca , Nyangon Laurna , Pazi Ahmad Mustapha Mohamad
Published: April 2017

Matang Mangrove Forest is under systematic management since 1902 and still considered as the best managed mangrove forest in the world. This research was conducted to measure the time and productivity of forest harvesting operation and also to analyze the cost and revenue of mangrove forest harvesting operation at Matang mangrove forest. This project had been carried out in cooperation with Seri Sepetang Enterprise, one of the harvesting licenses in Kuala Sepetang, Perak.  Data collections were taken in every station starting from standing tree until to the Kiln-Drying jetty. The data then calculated by using the formulas of productivity and cost analysis. As the result, the productivity for felling, bucking and debarking, the manual skidding using wheel-barrow and the water transportation are 1.84 tan/hour, 3.82 tan/hour and 4.64 tan/hour respectively.  The cost for each operation of 9 tan log volume for felling, bucking and debarking, the manual skidding using wheel-barrow and the water transportation are RM 56.88, RM 10.80 and RM 36.72 respectively. As the revenue, the company paid RM 260 per 9 tan of log for the in-forest operation (felling, manual skidding and loading to the ship) and pay RM 80 per 9 tan for the water transportation, and they gained the net profit of RM 192.32 and RM 43.28 respectively. The average of forest harvesting operation is twice operation in a day (equal with 2 x 9-ton volume of log production a day), so they will gain a double profit.  In conclusion, the forest harvesting operation is sustainably managed for supplying the raw material of charcoal industries in Matang mangrove forest. Since, they work manually and spend much energy in this forest harvesting operation, so for further study it recommends to conduct the ergonomics evaluation during forest harvesting operation at Matang Mangrove Forest.
Effect of Doxycycline on Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition via the p38/Smad Pathway in Respiratory Epithelial Cells
Authors: Shin Jae-Min , Kang Ju-Hyung , Lee Seoung-Ae , Park Il-Ho , Lee Heung-Man
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Doxycycline has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, and it also suppresses collagen biosynthesis. This study aimed to confirm the effects and mechanism of doxycycline on transforming growth factor (TGF) beta 1 induced epithelial-mesenchymal transition and cell migration in A549 and primary nasal epithelial cells.

Methods

A 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay and phalloidin-fluorescein isothiocyanate staining were used to evaluate cytotoxicity and cellular morphologic changes. Western blot and immunofluorescence staining were used to determine the expression levels of E-cadherin, vimentin, alpha-smooth muscle actin, fibronectin, phosphorylated Smad2/3, and mitogen-activated protein kinases. Scratch and transwell migration assays were used to assess cellular migration ability.

Results

Doxycycline (0-10 μg/mL) had no significant cytotoxic effects in A549 and primary nasal epithelial cells. Increased expression of mesenchymal markers, including vimentin, alpha-smooth muscle actin, and fibronectin in TGF beta 1 induced A549 cells were downregulated by doxycycline treatment. In contrast, E-cadherin expression was upregulated in TGF beta 1 induced A549 cells. An in vitro cell migration assay showed that doxycycline also inhibited the ability of TGF beta 1 induced migration. Doxycycline treatment suppressed the activation of Smad2/3 and p38, whereas its inhibitory effects were similar to each element-specific inhibitor in A549 and primary nasal epithelial cells.

Conclusion

Doxycycline inhibited TGF beta 1 induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and migration by targeting Smad2/3 and p38 signal pathways in respiratory epithelial cells.
Excavating Meningoencephaloceles: A Newly Recognized Entity
Authors: Loftus Patricia A. , Wise Sarah K. , Daraei Pedram , Baugnon Kristen , DelGaudio John M.
Published: April 2017

Background

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are largely attributed to idiopathic intracranial hypertension and typically present as skull base defects with or without prolapse of intracranial contents. However, in our practice, we have encountered a distinct type of spontaneous CSF leak that presents in a different manner.

Objective

To discuss a newly-classified, difficult to treat, subset of spontaneous CSF leaks that present as excavation of the bone of the skull base in a tunnel- or canal-like fashion by a meningocele or meningoencephalocele instead of as a localized area of bony dehiscence.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed at a tertiary care rhinology practice to identify a subset of CSF leak patients with an excavating/canal-like skull base defect visualized radiographically on computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging and/or endoscopically in the operating room.

Results

The cohort of patients consisted of 7 females and 1 male with an average age of 53.6 years and a self-reported race of 4:3:1 African-American: Caucasian-Indian. All patients presented with CSF rhinorrhea. The most common leak site was the cribriform and upper septum. Six of the 8 patients had multiple defects and/or progression of their skull base defects, and 5 patients required multiple and/or repeat repairs in the operating room. Seven of the 8 patients underwent a cisternogram because the excavating nature of the leaks made it difficult to identify the specific leak site on high-resolution CT scan alone.

Conclusion

In spontaneous CSF leaks that are difficult to identify or recur soon after a proper repair, an excavating pattern should be considered. Failure to recognize this type of leak and all of its tributaries, to fully unroof the excavated bone to completely resect the meningocele, and to visualize and close the site of origin will likely result in failure and recurrence of CSF leak.
Normal Saline Solution Nasal-Pharyngeal Irrigation Improves Chronic Cough Associated with Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Lin Lin , Chen Zhongchun , Cao Yitan , Sun Guangbin
Published: April 2017

Background

Upper airway inflammation is one of the most commonly identified causes of chronic cough, although the underlying mechanism is not clear. This study compared normal saline solution nasal-pharyngeal irrigation (NSNPI) and fluticasone propionate nasal spray (FPNS) treatment for chronic cough associated with allergic rhinitis (AR).

Methods

Patients with suspected AR to house-dust mite were enrolled, and the symptom of cough was assessed by a cough symptom score and the Leicester Cough Questionnaire, and cough response to capsaicin was evaluated. AR was assessed by using the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Mini Juniper Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (MiniRQLQ). Mediators, including histamine, leukotriene C4, and prostaglandin D2, and the major basic protein from nasal lavage fluid (NLF) were examined. The patients were treated with NSNPI (the NSNPI group) or FPNS (the FPNS group) for 30 days, after which they were reassessed.

Results

Forty-five of 50 patients completed this study. The scores of the cough symptom and the Leicester Cough Questionnaire, and the capsaicin cough threshold all improved statistically after NSNPI but did not change after FPNS. There were statistically significant changes in the evaluations of the MiniRQLQ and the mediators, including histamine and leukotriene C4, in the NLF in the NSNPI group. However, significant changes were found in the assessments of VAS, MiniRQLQ, and all above mediators including histamine, leukotriene C4, and prostaglandin D2, and the major basic protein in the NLF of the FPNS group. Furthermore, the assessments of VAS and all the mediators were reduced more in the FPNS group compared with those in the NSNPI group.

Conclusion

The patients with suspected AR to house-dust mite reported a better relief of the cough symptom after 30 days of treatment with NSNPI compared with that after nasal corticosteroid.
Nitric Oxide Production is Stimulated by Bitter Taste Receptors Ubiquitously Expressed in the Sinonasal Cavity
Authors: Yan Carol H. , Hahn Samuel , McMahon Derek , Bonislawski David , Kennedy David W. , Adappa Nithin D. , Palmer James N. , Jiang Peihua , Lee Robert J. , Cohen Noam A.
Published: April 2017

Background

Bitter taste receptors (T2R) have recently been demonstrated to contribute to sinonasal innate immunity. One T2R, T2R38, regulates mucosal defense against gram-negative organisms through nitric oxide (NO) production, which enhances mucociliary clearance and directly kills bacteria. To determine whether additional T2Rs contribute to this innate defense, we evaluated two other sinonasal T2Rs (T2R4 and T2R16) for regulation of NO production and expression within the human sinonasal cavity.

Methods

Primary human sinonasal cultures were stimulated with ligands specific to T2R4 and T2R16, colchicine and D-salicin, respectively. Cellular NO production was measured by intracellular 4-amino-5-methylamino-2’, 7′-difluorofluorescein diacetate fluorescence. For T2R expression mapping, sinonasal tissue was obtained from patients who underwent sinus surgery of the middle turbinate, maxillary sinus, ethmoid sinus, or sphenoid sinus. The expression of T2R4, T2R16, and T2R38 was evaluated by using immunofluorescence with validated antibodies.

Results

Similar to T2R38, T2R4 and T2R16 trigger NO production in a dose-dependent manner by using the canonical taste signaling pathway in response to stimulation with their respective ligands. All three receptors were expressed in the cilia of human epithelial cells of all regions in the sinonasal cavity.

Conclusion

These three T2Rs signaled through the same NO-mediated antimicrobial pathway and were ubiquitously expressed in the sinonasal epithelium. Additional T2Rs besides T2R38 may play a role in sinonasal immune defense. Mapping of T2R expression demonstrated the potential widespread role of T2Rs in sinonasal defense, whereas the genetics of these T2Rs may contribute to our understanding of specific endotypes of chronic rhinosinusitis and develop into novel therapeutic targets.
Emergence of new recombinant noroviruses GII.p16-GII.4 and GII.p16-GII.2, France, winter 2016 to 2017
Authors: Bidalot Maxime , Théry Lucie , Kaplon Jérôme , De Rougemont Alexis , Ambert-Balay Katia
Published: April 2017

An early increase in outbreaks of norovirus gastroenteritis characterised at the French National Reference Centre occurred this winter season. They were concurrent with an unusual pattern of circulating strains, with three predominant genotypes: the re-emergent variant GII.P4 2009-GII.4 2012 found in 28% of norovirus outbreaks and two new emergent recombinant strains GII.P16-GII.4 2012 and GII.P16-GII.2 never before observed in France, found in 24% and 14% of norovirus outbreaks, respectively.
Three cases of mcr-1-positive colistin-resistant Escherichia coli bloodstream infections in Italy, August 2016 to January 2017
Authors: Corbella Marta , Mariani Bianca , Ferrari Carolina , Comandatore Francesco , Scaltriti Erika , Marone Piero , Cambieri Patrizia
Published: April 2017

We describe three cases of bloodstream infection caused by colistin-resistant Escherichia coli in patients in a tertiary hospital in Italy, between August 2016 and January 2017. Whole genome sequencing detected the mcr-1 gene in three isolated strains belonging to different sequence types (STs). This occurrence of three cases with mcr-1-positive E. coli belonging to different STs in six months suggests a widespread problem in settings where high multidrug resistance is endemic such as in Italy.
Predictive performance of the American College of Surgeons universal risk calculator in neurosurgical patients
Authors: Vaziri Sasha , Wilson Jacob , Abbatematteo Joseph , Kubilis Paul , Chakraborty Saptarshi , Kshitij Khare , Hoh Daniel J.
Published: April 2017

OBJECTIVE

The American College of Surgeons (ACS) National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) universal Surgical Risk Calculator is an online decision-support tool that uses patient characteristics to estimate the risk of adverse postoperative events. Further validation of this risk calculator in the neurosurgical population is needed; therefore, the object of this study was to assess the predictive performance of the ACS NSQIP Surgical Risk Calculator in neurosurgical patients treated at a tertiary care center.

METHODS

A single-center retrospective review of 1006 neurosurgical patients treated in the period from September 2011 through December 2014 was performed. Individual patient characteristics were entered into the NSQIP calculator. Predicted complications were compared with actual occurrences identified through chart review and administrative quality coding data. Statistical models were used to assess the predictive performance of risk scores. Traditionally, an ideal risk prediction model demonstrates good calibration and strong discrimination when comparing predicted and observed events.

RESULTS

The ACS NSQIP risk calculator demonstrated good calibration between predicted and observed risks of death (p = 0.102), surgical site infection (SSI; p = 0.099), and venous thromboembolism (VTE; p = 0.164) Alternatively, the risk calculator demonstrated a statistically significant lack of calibration between predicted and observed risk of pneumonia (p = 0.044), urinary tract infection (UTI; p < 0.001), return to the operating room (p < 0.001), and discharge to a rehabilitation or nursing facility (p < 0.001). The discriminative performance of the risk calculator was assessed using the c-statistic. Death (c-statistic 0.93), UTI (0.846), and pneumonia (0.862) demonstrated strong discriminative performance. Discharge to a rehabilitation facility or nursing home (c-statistic 0.794) and VTE (0.767) showed adequate discrimination. Return to the operating room (c-statistic 0.452) and SSI (0.556) demonstrated poor discriminative performance. The risk prediction model was both well calibrated and discriminative only for 30-day mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

This study illustrates the importance of validating universal risk calculators in specialty-specific surgical populations. The ACS NSQIP Surgical Risk Calculator could be used as a decision-support tool for neurosurgical informed consent with respect to predicted mortality but was poorly predictive of other potential adverse events and clinical outcomes.
The 2002 NIMH Provisional Diagnostic Criteria for Depression of Alzheimer’s Disease (PDC-dAD): Gauging their Validity over a Decade Later
Authors: Sepehry Amir A. , Lee Philip E. , Hsiung Ging-Yuek R. , Beattie B. Lynn , Feldman Howard H. , Jacova Claudia
Published: April 2017

Presented herein is evidence for criterion, content, and convergent/discriminant validity of the NIMH-Provisional Diagnostic Criteria for depression of Alzheimer’s Disease (PDC-dAD) that were formulated to address depression in Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Using meta-analytic and systematic review methods, we examined criterion validity evidence in epidemiological and clinical studies comparing the PDC-dAD to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders fourth edition (DSM-IV), and International Classification of Disease (ICD 9) depression diagnostic criteria. We estimated prevalence of depression by PDC, DSM, and ICD with an omnibus event rate effect-size. We also examined diagnostic agreement between PDC and DSM. To gauge content validity, we reviewed rates of symptom endorsement for each diagnostic approach. Finally, we examined the PDC’s relationship with assessment scales (global cognition, neuropsychiatric, and depression definition) for convergent validity evidence. The aggregate evidence supports the validity of the PDC-dAD. Our findings suggest that depression in AD differs from other depressive disorders including Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in that dAD is more prevalent, with generally a milder presentation and with unique features not captured by the DSM. Although the PDC are the current standard for diagnosis of depression in AD, we identified the need for their further optimization based on predictive validity evidence.