bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Satellite Time Group Delay and Inter-Frequency Differential Code Bias Corrections on Multi-GNSS Combined Positioning
Authors: Ge Yulong , Zhou Feng , Sun Baoqi , Wang Shengli , Shi Bo
Published: March 2017

We present quad-constellation (namely, GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou and Galileo) time group delay (TGD) and differential code bias (DCB) correction models to fully exploit the code observations of all the four global navigation satellite systems (GNSSs) for navigation and positioning. The relationship between TGDs and DCBs for multi-GNSS is clearly figured out, and the equivalence of TGD and DCB correction models combining theory with practice is demonstrated. Meanwhile, the TGD/DCB correction models have been extended to various standard point positioning (SPP) and precise point positioning (PPP) scenarios in a multi-GNSS and multi-frequency context. To evaluate the effectiveness and practicability of broadcast TGDs in the navigation message and DCBs provided by the Multi-GNSS Experiment (MGEX), both single-frequency GNSS ionosphere-corrected SPP and dual-frequency GNSS ionosphere-free SPP/PPP tests are carried out with quad-constellation signals. Furthermore, the author investigates the influence of differential code biases on GNSS positioning estimates. The experiments show that multi-constellation combination SPP performs better after DCB/TGD correction, for example, for GPS-only b1-based SPP, the positioning accuracies can be improved by 25.0%, 30.6% and 26.7%, respectively, in the N, E, and U components, after the differential code biases correction, while GPS/GLONASS/BDS b1-based SPP can be improved by 16.1%, 26.1% and 9.9%. For GPS/BDS/Galileo the 3rd frequency based SPP, the positioning accuracies are improved by 2.0%, 2.0% and 0.4%, respectively, in the N, E, and U components, after Galileo satellites DCB correction. The accuracy of Galileo-only b1-based SPP are improved about 48.6%, 34.7% and 40.6% with DCB correction, respectively, in the N, E, and U components. The estimates of multi-constellation PPP are subject to different degrees of influence. For multi-constellation combination SPP, the accuracy of single-frequency is slightly better than that of dual-frequency combinations. Dual-frequency combinations are more sensitive to the differential code biases, especially for the 2nd and 3rd frequency combination, such as for GPS/BDS SPP, accuracy improvements of 60.9%, 26.5% and 58.8% in the three coordinate components is achieved after DCB parameters correction. For multi-constellation PPP, the convergence time can be reduced significantly with differential code biases correction. And the accuracy of positioning is slightly better with TGD/DCB correction.
Health Monitoring and Evaluation of Long-Span Bridges Based on Sensing and Data Analysis: A Survey
Authors: Zhou Jianting , Li Xiaogang , Xia Runchuan , Yang Jun , Zhang Hong
Published: March 2017

Aimed at the health monitoring and evaluation of bridges based on sensing technology, the monitoring contents of different structural types of long-span bridges were defined. Then, the definition, classification, selection principle, and installation requirements of the sensors were summarized. The concept was proposed that new adaptable long-life sensors could be developed by new theories and new effects. The principle and methods to select controlled sections and optimize the layout design of measuring points were illustrated. The functional requirements were elaborated on about the acquisition, transmission, processing, and management of sensing information. Some advanced concepts about the method of bridge safety evaluation were demonstrated and technology bottlenecks in the current safety evaluation were also put forward. Ultimately, combined with engineering practices, an application was carried out. The results showed that new, intelligent, and reliable sensor technology would be one of the main future development directions in the long-span bridge health monitoring and evaluation field. Also, it was imperative to optimize the design of the health monitoring system and realize its standardization. Moreover, it is a heavy responsibility to explore new thoughts and new concepts regarding practical bridge safety and evaluation technology.
Gender in Engineering Departments: Are There Gender Differences in Interruptions of Academic Job Talks?
Authors: Blair-Loy Mary , Rogers Laura , Glaser Daniela , Wong Y. , Abraham Danielle , Cosman Pamela
Published: March 2017

We use a case study of job talks in five engineering departments to analyze the under-studied area of gendered barriers to finalists for faculty positions. We focus on one segment of the interview day of short-listed candidates invited to campus: the “job talk”, when candidates present their original research to the academic department. We analyze video recordings of 119 job talks across five engineering departments at two Research 1 universities. Specifically, we analyze whether there are differences by gender or by years of post-Ph.D. experience in the number of interruptions, follow-up questions, and total questions that job candidates receive. We find that, compared to men, women receive more follow-up questions and more total questions. Moreover, a higher proportion of women’s talk time is taken up by the audience asking questions. Further, the number of questions is correlated with the job candidate’s statements and actions that reveal he or she is rushing to present their slides and complete the talk. We argue that women candidates face more interruptions and often have less time to bring their talk to a compelling conclusion, which is connected to the phenomenon of “stricter standards” of competence demanded by evaluators of short-listed women applying for a masculine-typed job. We conclude with policy recommendations.
The Disease Burden of Patients with Allergic Rhinitis from a Hospital Surveillance in Beijing
Authors: Zhang Fengying , Nie Chengjing , Wang Li , Rosenberg Mark , Xu Jin , Krafft Thomas , Wang Wuyi
Published: March 2017

Background: The aims of this study are to estimate the disease burden of allergic rhinitis (AR) patients and examine various underlying issues related to the symptoms and services of adult AR patients. Methods: Beijing hospital was picked as the surveillance area, and self-report questionnaires from the AR patients and data from medical examinations by specialists of otolaryngology were collected. The burden of patients with AR was evaluated by the combined results from patient-questionnaires and specialist examination reports. Results: AR imposed a substantial burden on patients regarding everyday life limitations and work performance; AR affected patients’ noses, ears, throats, and eyes in various ways. The basic daily average medicine cost was 10 RMB for each patient, and the cost for an outpatient in the hospital was 10 RMB for a basic nasal examination and more than 200 RMB if the patient needed further physical examinations. Conclusions: AR imposed burdens on everyday activities and work performance; the patients needed to wait a long time before being diagnosed, and the costs of diagnosis and treatment imposed economic burden on patients.
Ameliorative Effects of Neutral Electrolyzed Water on Growth Performance, Biochemical Constituents, and Histopathological Changes in Turkey Poults during Aflatoxicosis
Authors: Gómez-Espinosa Denise , Cervantes-Aguilar Francisco , Del Río-García Juan , Villarreal-Barajas Tania , Vázquez-Durán Alma , Méndez-Albores Abraham
Published: March 2017

Different in vitro and in silico approaches from our research group have demonstrated that neutral electrolyzed water (NEW) can be used to detoxify aflatoxins. The objective of this investigation was to evaluate the ability of NEW to detoxify B-aflatoxins (AFB1 and AFB2) in contaminated maize and to confirm detoxification in an in vivo experimental model. Batches of aflatoxin-contaminated maize were detoxified with NEW and mixed in commercial feed. A total of 240 6-day-old female large white Nicholas-700 turkey poults were randomly divided into four treatments of six replicates each (10 turkeys per replicate), which were fed ad libitum for two weeks with the following dietary treatments: (1) control feed containing aflatoxin-free maize (CONTROL); (2) feed containing the aflatoxin-contaminated maize (AF); (3) feed containing the aflatoxin-contaminated maize detoxified with NEW (AF + NEW); and (4) control feed containing aflatoxin-free maize treated with NEW (NEW). Compared to the control groups, turkey poults of the AF group significantly reduced body weight gain and increased feed conversion ratio and mortality rate; whereas turkey poults of the AF + NEW group did not present significant differences on productive parameters. In addition, alterations in serum biochemical constituents, enzyme activities, relative organ weight, gross morphological changes and histopathological studies were significantly mitigated by the aflatoxin-detoxification procedure. From these results, it is concluded that the treatment of aflatoxin-contaminated maize with NEW provided reasonable protection against the effects caused by aflatoxins in young turkey poults.
Computing the T-matrix of a scattering object with multiple plane wave illuminations
Authors: Fruhnert Martin , Fernandez-Corbaton Ivan , Yannopapas Vassilios , Rockstuhl Carsten
Published: March 2017

Given an arbitrarily complicated object, it is often difficult to say immediately how it interacts with a specific illumination. Optically small objects, e.g., spheres, can often be modeled as electric dipoles, but which multipole moments are excited for larger particles possessing a much more complicated shape? The T-matrix answers this question, as it contains the entire information about how an object interacts with any electromagnetic illumination. Moreover, a multitude of interesting properties can be derived from the T-matrix such as the scattering cross section for a specific illumination and information about symmetries of the object. Here, we present a method to calculate the T-matrix of an arbitrary object numerically, solely by illuminating it with multiple plane waves and analyzing the scattered fields. Calculating these fields is readily done by widely available tools. The finite element method is particularly advantageous, because it is fast and efficient. We demonstrate the T-matrix calculation at four examples of relevant optical nanostructures currently at the focus of research interest. We show the advantages of the method to obtain useful information, which is hard to access when relying solely on full wave solvers.
Indirect cost of non-communicable diseases deaths in the World Health Organization African Region
Authors: Muthuri Kirigia Joses , M Mwabu Germano , Machoki M'Imunya James , Karimi Muthuri Rosenabi Deborah , Kainyu Nkanata Lenity Honesty , Bundi Gitonga Eric
Published: March 2017

Background: In 2012, a total of 9 398 809 deaths from all causes occurred in the WHO African Region; out of which 2 788 381 (29.67%) were due to non-communicable diseases (NCD). The objective of this study was to estimate future gross domestic product (GDP) losses associated with NCD deaths in the African Region for use to advocate for increased investments into prevention and management of NCDs. Methods: Human capital approach is used to estimate non-health GDP losses associated with NCD deaths. Future non-health GDP losses were discounted at 3%. The analysis was done for three income groups of countries and six age groups. One-way sensitivity analysis at 5% and 10% discount rates was undertaken to assess the impact on expected non-health GDP loss estimates.Results: The 2 788 381 NCD deaths that occurred in the African Region in 2012 are estimated to have resulted in a total discounted GDP loss of Int$ 61 302 450 005. Out of that total loss, 20.36% was borne by those aged 0-4 years; 12.76% by 5-14 years; 16.64% by 15-29 years; 44.93% by 30-59 years; 2.99% by 60-69 years; and 2.33% by those aged 70 years and above. Thus, those aged between 15 and 59 years bore 61.57% of the GDP losses.Approximately 47.4%, 33.1% and 19.5% of the total loss was borne by high and upper middle-, lower middle- and low-income countries respectively. The average total non-health GDP loss was Int$ 21 985 per NCD death. The average non-health GDP lost per NCD death was Int$ 54 534 for Group 1, Int$ 21 492 for Group 2 and Int$ 9 096 for Group 3. Conclusion: Premature NCD deaths are associated with substantive GDP losses in countries of the African Region. Therefore, unless African countries and their development partners bolster their investments to assure universal population coverage of cost-effective promotive, preventive and management interventions for NCDs, prospects of achieving the United Nations General Assembly Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) might be greatly undermined in Africa.Key words: Non-communicable diseases, non-health GDP loss, NCD prevention and management, human capital approach
Wide-field 12CO (
) and 13CO (
) Observations toward the Aquila Rift and Serpens Molecular Cloud Complexes. I. Molecular Clouds and Their Physical Properties
Authors: Nakamura Fumitaka , Dobashi Kazuhito , Shimoikura Tomomi , Tanaka Tomohiro , Onishi Toshikazu
Published: March 2017

We present the results of wide-field 12CO (

) and 13CO (

) observations toward the Aquila Rift and Serpens molecular cloud complexes (

and

) at an angular resolution of 3.′4 (

pc) and at a velocity resolution of 0.079 km s−1 with velocity coverage of

. We found that the 13CO emission better traces the structures seen in the extinction map, and derived the

-factor of this region. Applying SCIMES to the 13CO data cube, we identified 61 clouds and derived their mass, radii, and line widths. The line width–radius relation of the identified clouds basically follows those of nearby molecular clouds. The majority of the identified clouds are close to virial equilibrium, although the dispersion is large. By inspecting the 12CO channel maps by eye, we found several arcs that are spatially extended to 0.°2–3° in length. In the longitude–velocity diagrams of 12CO, we also found two spatially extended components that appear to converge toward Serpens South and the W40 region. The existence of two components with different velocities and arcs suggests that large-scale expanding bubbles and/or flows play a role in the formation and evolution of the Serpens South and W40 cloud.
Long-slit Spectroscopy of Edge-on Low Surface Brightness Galaxies
Authors: Du Wei , Wu Hong , Zhu Yinan , Zheng WeiKang , Filippenko Alexei V.
Published: March 2017

We present long-slit optical spectra of 12 edge-on low surface brightness galaxies (LSBGs) positioned along their major axes. After performing reddening corrections for the emission-line fluxes measured from the extracted integrated spectra, we measured the gas-phase metallicities of our LSBG sample using both the [N ii]/Hα and the R
23 diagnostics. Both sets of oxygen abundances show good agreement with each other, giving a median value of 12 + log(O/H) = 8.26 dex. In the luminosity–metallicity plot, our LSBG sample is consistent with the behavior of normal galaxies. In the mass–metallicity diagram, our LSBG sample has lower metallicities for lower stellar mass, similar to normal galaxies. The stellar masses estimated from z-band luminosities are comparable to those of prominent spirals. In a plot of the gas mass fraction versus metallicity, our LSBG sample generally agrees with other samples in the high gas mass fraction space. Additionally, we have studied stellar populations of three LSBGs, which have relatively reliable spectral continua and high signal-to-noise ratios, and qualitatively conclude that they have a potential dearth of stars with ages <1 Gyr instead of being dominated by stellar populations with ages >1 Gyr. Regarding the chemical evolution of our sample, the LSBG data appear to allow for up to 30% metal loss, but we cannot completely rule out the closed-box model. Additionally, we find evidence that our galaxies retain up to about three times as much of their metals compared with dwarfs, consistent with metal retention being related to galaxy mass. In conclusion, our data support the view that LSBGs are probably just normal disk galaxies continuously extending to the low end of surface brightness.
Trump et la crise de la démocratie américaine
Authors: Nardon Laurence
Published: March 2017

La victoire de Donald Trump lors de l’élection présidentielle de 2016 traduit une crise de la démocratie américaine. Le discours anti-élites, anti-système et anti-immigration de l’homme d’affaires new-yorkais a notamment séduit l’électorat blanc peu diplômé des États désindustrialisés. La campagne électorale a été caractérisée par la prolifération des déclarations outrancières voire mensongères. Les États-Unis sont entrés de plain-pied dans l’ère de la « politique post-vérité ».
Arctique : le passage du Nord-Ouest sous tension
Authors: Lasserre Frédéric
Published: March 2017

Avec la fonte de la banquise arctique s’est développé un discours médiatique et scientifique sur l’intérêt stratégique du passage du Nord-Ouest. La question du statut des eaux du passage du Nord-Ouest pose celle de l’inclusion ou non de ce détroit dans l’espace maritime souverain du Canada. Les relations entre États demeurent cordiales sur le sujet, et il n’y a pas de litige fort entre le Canada et d’autres pays à propos de la souveraineté sur cette route arctique.
Les propriétés dynamiques et de long terme du modèle ThreeME
Authors: Callonnec Gaël , Landa Rivera Gissela , Malliet Paul , Saussay Aurélien , Reynès Frédéric
Published: March 2017

ThreeME est un modèle macroéconomique d’équilibre général calculable multisectoriel d’inspiration néo-keynésienne, conçu pour évaluer les impacts macroéconomiques des politiques publiques, notamment énergétiques et environnementales. Cet article propose une analyse des propriétés dynamiques et de long terme du modèle ThreeME. Plusieurs variantes ont été conduites : une modification du prix du pétrole, des cotisations employeurs, de la TVA, des investissements publics ou encore l’introduction d’une taxe carbone. Pour chacune d’entre elles, nous montrons l’impact de la spécification de l’équation de salaire (en comparant les résultats simulés avec une courbe Wage Setting et de Phillips). Nous comparons aussi les résultats de ThreeME avec ceux du modèle MESANGE ainsi que deux versions de ThreeME (version standard et hybride).
Travail rémunéré et travail domestique
Authors: d’Albis Hippolyte , Bonnet Carole , Navaux Julien , Pelletan Jacques , Solaz Anne
Published: March 2017

À l’aide des Comptes de transferts nationaux , cet article quantifie les évolutions par âge et par sexe de la production domestique et des revenus du travail rémunéré en France sur la période 1985-2010. Il montre que si la participation plus importante des femmes au marché du travail a permis d’accroître leur contribution dans les revenus du travail rémunéré, leur contribution à la « production globale », définie comme la somme des revenus du travail rémunéré et de la production domestique « monétisée » au salaire minimum, a peu augmenté sur la période (passant de 43 % à 46 % entre 1985 et 2010 pour les femmes de 25 à 55 ans). Cette stabilité s’explique par les évolutions relatives des temps de travail rémunéré et domestique des femmes et des hommes. Les heures annuelles sur le marché du travail ont baissé pour les deux sexes, mais cette tendance à la baisse a été en partie compensée pour les femmes par une participation accrue. Parallèlement, ces dernières se sont massivement désengagées de la sphère domestique, les hommes n’ayant modifié que marginalement leur implication domestique. Le temps de travail total des femmes a ainsi plus baissé que celui des hommes tout en lui demeurant supérieur. Néanmoins, une heure de production domestique étant par hypothèse moins « valorisée » qu’une heure de travail rémunéré, ces évolutions n’ont finalement pas modifié la contribution des femmes à la « production globale ».
Bienvenue à l’ère du gestionnaire décodeur
Authors: Bellavance François , Labrie François
Published: March 2017

Le réveil risque d’être brutal pour de nombreux gestionnaires. Mine d’or pour les uns, panier de crabes pour les autres, la vague du big data , aussi appelé mégadonnées, continuera de frapper de plein fouet tous les secteurs d’activité, les poussant dans leurs derniers retranchements et bouleversant au passage les modes de pensée. Pire encore, les gestionnaires qui résisteront risquent d’être rayés de la carte. Car à l’avenir, données, intelligence et approche analytique des affaires seront intimement liées.
Des chiffres qui parlent !
Authors: Normandin François
Published: March 2017

Pour prendre la pleine mesure du phénomène technologique de l’heure...
Six chapeaux pour mieux gérer l’innovation
Authors: Roditi Eugène
Published: March 2017

De prime abord, le concept de l’innovation semble simple. Mais dans les faits, la gestion de la créativité et de l’innovation pose de nombreux défis aux entreprises. La méthode des « six chapeaux » du docteur Edward de Bono 1 permet de franchir ces obstacles et de stimuler la créativité de chacun.
En route vers la présidence de l’entreprise familiale
Authors: Coté Robert
Published: March 2017

Le succès d’un transfert dépend toujours non seulement de la qualité des comportements et du degré de compétence des parties en présence mais aussi de l’adoption d’un plan de formation de la relève et d’un plan stratégique.
Améliorez votre communication managériale
Authors: Lord Isabelle
Published: March 2017

Être gestionnaire est avant tout une aventure humaine. Et c’est une aventure qu’on peut vivre avec plus ou moins de bonheur, selon notre degré de préparation pour relever le principal défi qu’elle pose : avoir l’autorité d’un patron sans user d’autorité. Pour y parvenir, vous devrez compter uniquement sur votre habileté à communiquer.
Se sent-on en sécurité dans votre équipe ?
Authors: Bertholet Jean-François , Gaudet Marie-Claude
Published: March 2017

Dans un fascinant projet de recherche nommé Aristote, la société Google a tenté de déterminer les constituantes d’une équipe exceptionnelle. La découverte de ses chercheurs : cela dépend moins des personnes qui font partie de l’équipe que d’une norme de groupe particulière, c’est-à-dire la sécurité psychologique. Il s’agit de la croyance selon laquelle l’équipe constitue un espace sécuritaire pour prendre des risques, où les individus ne seront pas punis, rejetés ou embarrassés s’ils osent s’exprimer. En d’autres termes, il faut rechercher les équipes où on ne doit pas porter de masque !
STRENGTHENING REQUIREMENT SPECIFICATION IN SUSTAINABLE PROCUREMENT – AN INVESTIGATION OF CHALLENGES
Authors: Eriksen Marlene Hagen , Bjarløv Søren Peter , Rode Carsten
Published: March 2017

To reap the benefits of sustainability in the construction sector, it is crucial that the stakeholders involved can implement it in practice. Investigations have shown that choices made in the early phases of the building process are of very great importance for the outcome and the initiatives and decisions taken by the building owner are crucial.

This paper presents research on Danish building practitioners' ability to make requirements for sustainability in procurement. On the basis of an action research strategy, we asked practitioners to help identify the challenges involved in requiring sustainable solutions through procurement. These included among others a lack of knowledge or experience in sustainable procurement and interdisciplinary challenges. The research showed that practitioners are able to formulate specific requirements for sustainability in procurement. However the challenges found imply that a sustainable approach in procurement is not fully implemented in a Danish context. This suggests that there is a need for guidance in the area, if the practitioners are to move from good intentions to making more specific requirements for sustainability in procurement.
UTILIZATION OF FLY ASH AND CONCRETE RESIDUE IN THE PRODUCTION OF GEOPOLYMER BRICKS
Authors: Sirikingkaew Siriporn , Supakata Nuta
Published: March 2017

This study presents the development of geopolymer bricks synthetized from industrial waste, including fly ash mixed with concrete residue containing aluminosilicate compound. The above two ingredients are mixed according to five ratios: 100:0, 95:5, 90:10, 85:15, and 80:20. The mixture's physico-mechanical properties, in terms of water absorption and the compressive strength of the geopolymer bricks, are investigated according to the TIS 168-2546 standard. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses are used to investigate the microstructure and the elemental and phase composition of the brick specimens. The results indicate that the combination of fly ash and concrete residue represents a suitable approach to brick production, as required by the TIS 168–2546 standard.
THE PLANE RADIOGRAPH OF THE KNEE FOR HIGH TIBIAL OSTEOTOMY ASSESSMENT IS IN CONTRAST TO STANDING ALIGNMENT VIRTUALLY ELABORATED HANDLING BASED PRE-OPERATION PLANNING
Authors: Saveh Amir Hossein , Kazemi Seyed Morteza , Zali Ali Reza , Dehpour Omid , Tabandegan Minoo , Haiatbakhsh Mahya , Dehghan Pouneh , Chizari Mahmoud , Gammada Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2017

High Tibial Osteotomy (HTO) is a popular approach among contemporary corrective lower extremity procedures. As a surgical method in the HTO, the Open-Wedge High Tibial Osteotomy (OWHTO) preserves leg length, avoids dissection near the nerve and allows for fine-tuning of the angle by gradually inserting a wedge into a tibia. Nowadays, the gold standard approach to the OWHTO is based on the patient’s Long-Leg Radiograph (LLR) assessment. These standard weight bearing views of the lower extremity have their own practical advantages. This study aims to closely look at existing gold standard OWHTO planning method and assess its accuracy compared to a true patient’s weight bearing posture. The study attempts to introduce a method which can be used as a template for the HTO planning and has less weakness than the existing method. This method will assess the lower limb weight bearing three-dimensionally using a patient specific Computer Tomography (CT) data. The method has been validated using a Standing Alignment Virtually Elaborated Handling (SAVEH) of the lower limb using fluoroscopy giving an in vivo dynamic weight bearing analysis of the knee. The outcome of typical examples on assessment of the natural mechanical axis of the knee using proposed method has shown more accuracy than common two-dimensional LLR image control method. The study concluded that looking at the OWHTO without any address of the real three-dimensional orientation of the knee bones specially during standing phase of gait may be a missing point of view on OWHTO surgery.
EFFECTS OF ULTRASOUND ON ARTEMIA CYST INCUBATION
Authors: Huang Yi-Cheng
Published: March 2017

The present work aims to test the bioeffects of ultrasounds on cyst formation in the crustacean Artemia salina. It is designed to identify which durations of ultrasonic exposure are capable of influencing hatching rates. The transducers used in the experiment were operated at resonant (0.23[Formula: see text]MHz and 4.7[Formula: see text]MHz) and non-resonant (0.5[Formula: see text]MHz and 1[Formula: see text]MHz) frequencies and the intensities of 3.25[Formula: see text]mW/cm2 and 13.63[Formula: see text]mW/cm2. The Rayleigh–Plesset theoretical framework was used to calculate the dynamics of shell-encapsulated cysts. The duration of ultrasound exposure was approximately 2[Formula: see text]min every 2[Formula: see text]h, repeated 6 times in the culture range of 1–15[Formula: see text]h. The results demonstrate that irradiation at an intensity of 13.63[Formula: see text]mW/cm2 and a driving frequency of 0.23[Formula: see text]MHz increased the number of hatched larvae by approximately 31.7%, compared with unexposed control samples. In conclusion, the theoretical model provided a useful means of predicting the most efficient frequency of sonication.
NONLINEAR VOLTERRA COEFFICIENTS FOR FEATURE EXTRACTION IN SLEEP STAGE CLASSIFICATION
Authors: Hassani Malihe , Karami Mohammad-Reza
Published: March 2017

This paper presents a new method for sleep scoring based on nonlinear Volterra features of EEG signals by using only one single EEG channel. The Volterra features are extracted from characteristic waves of EEG signals which can characterize different sleep stages individually. The recurrent neural classifier takes all the features extracted on 30s epochs from EEG signals and assigns them to one of the five possible stages: Wakefulness, NREM 1, NREM 2, SWS, and REM. Eight sleep recordings obtained from Caucasian males and females without any medication are utilized to validate the proposed method. Moreover, the performance of the proposed classifier in comparison with other classifiers is presented. The classification rate of the proposed classifier is better than that of the other classifier that does not use nonlinear Volterra feature. The results demonstrate that the proposed classifier with nonlinear Volterra features of the characteristic waves of EEG signals can classify sleep stages more efficiently and accurately using only a single EEG channel.
Human Health Diagnosis System Based on Iris Features
Authors: N Poonguzhali , Ezhilarasan M. , Hariharan R. , Devaraajan N. Praveen
Published: March 2017

Iris feature has been used in authentication systems in many real time applications and is proved to provide high accuracy. Apart from authentication iris features can also be used for detecting pathological changes in human body and diagnose human health. The present study analyses the relationship between human iris anatomy and their health, as it is proved that changes in human health condition reflects the iris. Basically, in authentication system iris texture features are used for identification, in the proposed work iris texture and geometric features can also be deployed in diagnosing human health. The texture features present in the human iris are extracted using the mathematical statistical measure which is used to specify the characteristics of the texture of an image using gray-level co-occurrence matrix. The iris and pupil are extracted and correlated to the compactness features of the circle. Based on the comparison the system enables in prediction of abnormalities in the iris texture and identifies the affected person.
Apps-Commerce in Emerging Markets
Authors: Rezaei Sajad , Emmi Maryam
Published: March 2017

The Internet and Apps related technologies are considered as information “super highway” since they are able to connect people, computers, and data to one another. Because of them, a new communication medium has risen, which provides an access to the large flow of information across various broad extensions. As a consequence, there has been a need for understanding the behaviors of online consumers, since Information Technology and its usage have had a massive impact on shopping behaviors as well as the rate of market success. This chapter's aim will be to sanitize the current understanding of Apps/online consumer behavior to shape Apps marketing strategies and implementations.
Evaluation of chemical characteristics and correlation analysis with pulp browning of advanced selections of apples grown in Brazil
Authors: Ercoli Luciana , Barizão Érica Oliveira , Boeing Joana Shuelter , Kvitschal Marcus Vinícius , Visentainer Jesuí Vergilio , Almeida Vitor De Cinque
Published: March 2017

In this research, the total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity (FRAP and DPPH•× assays) of pulps and peels of advanced selection of apples grown in Brazil were investigated. The correlation analyses between the activity of polyphenoloxidase enzyme (PPO), vitamin C content, total titratable acidity, and color parameters were performed. The results indicated that the data differed significantly among the apple genotypes studied. The peels of the selection Epagri 170-91 and Epagri 170-25 showed the highest TPC and antioxidant capacities. In addition, the pulps of the Epagri 170-91 presented the highest TPC and antioxidant capacities, the lowest enzymatic browning, highest amount of vitamin C and lowest enzymatic activity when compared with other genotypes. The TPC and antioxidant capacities were significantly correlated in all genotypes analyzed. High correlation values between enzymatic browning and factors that affect the apple color were also found in all analyzed pulps, except between enzymatic browning and TPC. The results demonstrated that the enzymatic browning and TPC, as well as the antioxidant capacity and chemical characteristics, vary considerably depending on the apple genotypes and fruit tissues analyzed.
Identification of C3b-Binding Small-Molecule Complement Inhibitors Using Cheminformatics
Authors: Garcia Brandon L. , Skaff D. Andrew , Chatterjee Arindam , Hanning Anders , Walker John K. , Wyckoff Gerald J. , Geisbrecht Brian V.
Published: March 2017

The complement system is an elegantly regulated biochemical cascade formed by the collective molecular recognition properties and proteolytic activities of more than two dozen membrane-bound or serum proteins. Complement plays diverse roles in human physiology, such as acting as a sentry against invading microorganisms, priming of the adaptive immune response, and removal of immune complexes. However, dysregulation of complement can serve as a trigger for a wide range of human diseases, which include autoimmune, inflammatory, and degenerative conditions. Despite several potential advantages of modulating complement with small-molecule inhibitors, small-molecule drugs are highly underrepresented in the current complement-directed therapeutics pipeline. In this study, we have employed a cheminformatics drug discovery approach based on the extensive structural and functional knowledge available for the central proteolytic fragment of the cascade, C3b. Using parallel in silico screening methodologies, we identified 45 small molecules that putatively bind C3b near ligand-guided functional hot spots. Surface plasmon resonance experiments resulted in the validation of seven dose-dependent C3b-binding compounds. Competition-based biochemical assays demonstrated the ability of several C3b-binding compounds to interfere with binding of the original C3b ligand that guided their discovery. In vitro assays of complement function identified a single complement inhibitory compound, termed cmp-5, and mechanistic studies of the cmp-5 inhibitory mode revealed it acts at the level of C5 activation. This study has led to the identification of a promising new class of C3b-binding small-molecule complement inhibitors and, to our knowledge, provides the first demonstration of cheminformatics-based, complement-directed drug discovery.
Paleozoic Continental Collision in the northern Appalachians in Light of Gravity and Magnetic Data in the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Authors: Haworth R T
Published: March 2017

Regional features depicted on new l : l , OOO , OOO Bouguer gravity anomaly and magnetic anomaly maps covering the Gulf of St. Lawrence are interpreted in terms of Paleozoic continental collision following the closing of a proto- Atlantic ocean. The angular
extension of the Precambrian basement from Quebec into the northern Gulf of St. Lawrence suggests the existence of a step in the margin of the midPaleozoic North American plate . The flexure of the Appalachian system through the Gulf and the abrupt termination in the southwestern Gulf of trends
roughly parallel to the mid- Paleozoic continental margins are consistent with collision between that stepped North American margin and a linear European margin. The collision culminated in the Acadian (Devonian) orogeny. Post- Devonian features may have developed both parallel to the margins and in
the direction of approach of the European plate as a result of that collision .
Environmental and Behavioral Drivers of Buruli Ulcer Disease in Selected Communities Along the Densu River Basin of Ghana: A Case-Control Study
Authors: Aboagye Samuel Yaw , Asare Prince , Otchere Isaac Darko , Koka Eric , Mensah George Ekow , Yirenya-Tawiah Dzidzo , Yeboah-Manu Dorothy
Published: March 2017

The exact route of transmission of Mycobacterium ulcerans (MU) (causative agent of Buruli ulcer [BU]), risk factors, and reservoir hosts are not clearly known, although it has been identified as an environmental pathogen. This study assessed potential environmental and behavioral risk factors that influence BU infections. We conducted a case-control study where cases were matched by their demographic characteristics and place of residence. A structured questionnaire was administered to solicit information on the environmental and behavioral factors of participants that may expose them to infection. A total of 176 cases and 176 controls were enrolled into the study. Multivariate conditional logistic regression analysis identified farming in swampy areas (odds ratio [OR] = 4.10, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.82–7.18), farming while wearing short clothing (OR = 1,734.1, 95% CI = 68.1–44,120.9), insect bite (OR = 988.3, 95% CI = 31.4–31,115.6), and application of leaves on wounds (OR = 6.23, 95% CI = 4.74–18.11) as potential risk factors. Farming in long clothing (OR = 0.000, 95% CI = 0.00–0.14), washing wound with water and soap (OR = 0.37, 95% CI = 0.29–0.98), and application of adhesive bandage on wounds (OR = 0.31, 95% CI = 0.15–0.82) were found to be protective against BU infection. In the absence of the exact MU transmission mechanisms, education of public in BU-endemic zones on the use of protective clothing during farming activities to limit exposure of the skin and proper wound care management would be essential in the fight against BU.
SINTERED TOOL MATERIALS
Authors:   Metals Technical Committee
Published: March 2017

This SAE Recommended Practice covers the identification and classification of ceramic, sintered carbide, and other cermet tool products.

Its purpose is to provide a standard method for designating the characteristics and properties of sintered tool materials.
WROUGHT NICKEL AND NICKEL-RELATED ALLOYS
Authors:   Metals Technical Committee
Published: March 2017

This Report presents general information on over 50 alloys in which nickel either predominates or is a significant alloying element. It covers primarily wrought materials, and is not necessarily all inclusive. Values given are in most cases average or nominal, and if more precise values are required the producer(s) should be contacted. This report does not cover the so-called "superalloys," or the iron base stainless steels. Refer to SAE J467, Special Purpose Alloys, and SAE J405, Chemical Compositions of SAE Wrought Stainless Steels, respectively, for data on these alloys.
A Study on the Utilization of Hospital Information System (Ward and Physician) Modules in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Pandit AP , Kulkarni Meenal , Debmallik, Tanima
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Hospital information system (HIS) is a key managerial tool for any hospital administrator. It gives him all requisite information online, wherever he is and whatever he is doing, so that he can apply timely interventions and set the things right and thereby take care of patient safety, quality improvement, and also minimize litigation problems in the hospitals.

After the initial introduction of HIS into the organization, the key findings were that the entire hospital operations are HIS driven. From the registration and admission of the patient, to the discharge summary generation of an inpatient, the entire process is guided by the HIS. It was found that the HIS is billing-centric, i.e., the HIS use pathway begins only when the registration fee is billed and the unique health identification number (UHID) of a patient is generated.

The main HIS modules under study are the Ward module and the Physician module. After conducting a utilization study using a structured questionnaire, it is found that the level of utilization of the Ward module is 36.4% and that of the Physician module is 6.66%. Using a Fishbone analysis, the causes of reduced HIS utilization have been identified and using a Pareto analysis the main causes have been found to be Work culture and Lack of mobile handheld devices. Various recommendations have been made to increase the HIS usage.

How to cite this article

Pandit AP, Debmallik T, Kulkarni M. A Study on the Utilization of Hospital Information System (Ward and Physician) Modules in a Tertiary Care Hospital. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2016;4(2):51-60.
Prescriptions Written in Capital Letters in Compliance with National Accreditation Board of Hospital Standards
Authors: Bhalla Shalini , Chawla, Ritwik , Kaushik, Saakshi
Published: March 2017

Objectives

(1) To study compliance rate of prescriptions written in capital letters according to continual quality improvement (CQI) 3j indicator of National Accreditation Board of Hospital (NABH) (4th edition). (2) To study compliance to doctors and patient detail, legibility of prescriptions, strength and dose, frequency, route of administration, dosage form, abbreviation for drug, allergy detail, and leading zeros in the dose.

Materials and methods

Convenient randomly selected Medication Administration Record (MAR) sheets from wards and intensive care units (ICUs) were studied. One hundred thirty-two prescriptions were identified for errors pertaining to doctor’s details, patient’s details, and medication details. Errors were captured on a prepared checklist for a period of 11 days. Results were analyzed by Microsoft Excel.

Results

Results were expressed in percentages for wards and ICUs respectively. Six hundred twenty four and 652 drugs were observed in wards and ICUs respectively. Doctor’s name was present in 79.6 and 83.3%. Out of 55 prescriptions in both wards and ICUs, patient’s name compliance was 94.5 and 96.4% and patient’s weight was 83.6 and 81.8% respectively. Compliance for drugs in capital was 98 and 100% for wards and ICUs respectively. Details pertaining to medication were also found out subsequently on various parameters.

Conclusion

The study revealed that the level of completeness of handwritten prescriptions was low in terms of doctor’s details and patient’s weight, which indicates unsatisfactory commitment of the prescribers to follow the hospital guidelines of prescribing. Majority of prescriptions showed compliance to medication written in capital but still the compliance to clear and legible prescriptions is three-fourths of the total prescriptions.

How to cite this article

Kaushik S, Chawla R, Bhalla S. Prescriptions Written in Capital Letters in Compliance with National Accreditation Board of Hospital Standards. Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2016;4(2):89-99.
Mergers by a Private Hospital: One Script Two Different Endings!
Authors: Kaur Gurvinder , Jain Kanika , Jain Deepti , Kapur Viney
Published: March 2017

Introduction

A comparative study of a failed and a successful merger in health care was conducted in an attempt to explore the reasons for success or failure of mergers.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective exploratory study of two mergers with the primary hospital being common. A detailed study of the existing policies and procedures, hospital records, financial data, and hospital statistics was conducted. Trends were analyzed and compared with the observed value.

Results

Reasons for the successful mergers can be attributed to managerial commitment and coordination, communication, as well as proximity of consultants of the two merging entities. Adequate strategic planning, a professional approach, and incremental implementation of necessary changes are also essential. No redressal of staff and stakeholder apprehension and poor communication are reasons for failure of mergers.

Conclusion

A merger in the Indian hospital scenario is a fairly recent phenomenon. Factors, and their interplay that result in successful or failed mergers in Indian context, are an unexplored field of research. Mergers are capital and resource-intensive, and the consequences of a failed alliance are huge. Thus, a careful, holistic feasibility study is essential before embarking on a merger.

How to cite this article

Jain D, Jain K, Kaur G, Kapur V. Mergers by a Private Hospital: One Script Two Different Endings! Int J Res Foundation Hosp Healthc Adm 2016;4(2):107-113.
Het zelfbeeld van sociaal tolken, een miskend en onderschat beroep
Authors: Gentile Paola
Published: March 2017

Public service interpreters (sociaal tolken in Dutch) – who work in hospitals and legal settings (such as courts and police stations) – play a fundamental role in the communication and integration process of allochtonous people. It is therefore not surprising that the final report of the Special Interest Group of Translation and Interpreting for Public Services points out that the profession is referred to as: ‘not just a matter of communication, but a matter of natural rights, of human rights: rights to be promoted, defended and guaranteed’ (SIGTIPS Final Report 2011, p. 7). Despite its significant social function, public service interpreting still lacks professionalization, even though the situation often changes from country to country. In some European countries, privatization and outsourcing of public service interpreting result in the violation of the right to linguistic assistance in public services, a phenomenon which has had significant repercussions not only at social level, but also on interpreters’ self-perception of their status. Drawing on Inghilleri’s theories on the way in which macro-social features have an impact on interpreting (2004; 2007), the present contribution presents the findings of a survey on the professional status of 39 public service interpreters working in The Netherlands, a multicultural and multilingual country where the provision of interpreting services has been particularly impacted by national policies. Special attention will be paid to the following questionnaire sections: income, perception of status, social value and the future of the profession.