bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Qualitative Systems Thinking Approach in Understanding the Implementation of Innovation on Construction Projects
Authors: Bajracharya Arun
Published: January 2015

As a leverage to improve productivity and to gain competitive advantage, the concept of innovation has been evolving as an additional dimension in construction apart from the cost, quality and time factors. However, owing to the very nature of the industry and production practices, the rate of innovation in construction is reported to be slower than expected. This paper considers that the source of the problem of the low rate of innovation in construction could be traced in the behaviour of construction firms especially at the production (project) level. The fundamental questions of “why” the construction firms would initiate and implement innovation and “how” the firms would behave and interact during the initiation and implementation process are addressed. A qualitative systems thinking model was developed to depict the behaviour of and interaction among the individual parties that get involved in implementation of innovation on construction projects. Four main sets of feedback loops were developed to explain the dynamics of implementation process of construction innovation. On the feedback loop model, judgment and decision points were identified. The understanding of these points could help in finding the ways to foster innovation in construction.
Simulation Tool for Inventory Models: SIMIN
Authors: Saxen Pratiksha , Kushwaha Tulsi
Published: January 2015

In this paper, an integrated simulation optimization model for the inventory system is developed. An effective algorithm is developed to evaluate and analyze the back-end stored simulation results. This paper proposes simulation tool SIMIN (Inventory Simulation) to simulate inventory models. SIMIN is a tool which simulates and compares the results of different inventory models. To overcome various practical restrictive assumptions, SIMIN provides values for a number of performance measurements. This tool is programmed in JAVA and is based on analytical approach to guide optimization strategy. Objective of this paper is to provide a user friendly simulation tool which gives optimized inventory model results. Simulation is carried out by providing the required values of input parameters and result is stored in the database for further comparison and study. Result is obtained in terms of the performance measurements of classical models of inventory system. Simulation results are stored in excel file and it also provides graphical results to compare the outcome. This simulation tool is interfaced with an optimization procedure based on classical models of inventory system. With the specified examples, the simulation results are obtained and analyzed rigorously. The result shows that input parameters, total system costs and capacity should be considered in the design of a practical system.
XXXVII Congresso Nazionale AIEOP, Bari, 20-22 maggio 2012 - Abstracts
Authors: Editors The
Published: January 2015

Book of abstracts - XXXVII Congresso Nazionale AIEOP, Bari, 20-22 maggio 2012
XXXVIII Congresso Nazionale AIEOP, Roma 9-11 giugno 2013 - Relazioni
Authors: Relazioni Sessioni Plenarie Mediche ed Infermieristiche
Published: January 2015

XXXVIII Congresso Nazionale AIEOP, Roma 9-11 giugno 2013 - Relazioni
Strength Training and Shoulder Proprioception
Authors: Salles José Inácio , Velasques Bruna , Cossich Victor , Nicoliche Eduardo , Ribeiro Pedro , Amaral Marcus Vinicius , Motta Geraldo
Published: January 2015

Context:

Proprioception is essential to motor control and joint stability during daily and sport activities. Recent studies demonstrated that athletes have better joint position sense (JPS) when compared with controls matched for age, suggesting that physical training could have an effect on proprioception.

Objective:

To evaluate the result of an 8-week strength-training program on shoulder JPS and to verify whether using training intensities that are the same or divergent for the shoulder's dynamic-stabilizer muscles promote different effects on JPS.

Design:

Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Setting:

We evaluated JPS in a research laboratory and conducted training in a gymnasium.

Patients or Other Participants:

A total of 90 men, right handed and asymptomatic, with no history of any type of injury or shoulder instability.

Intervention(s):

For 8 weeks, the participants performed the strength-training program 3 sessions per week. We used 4 exercises (bench press, lat pull down, shoulder press, and seated row), with 2 sets each.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

We measured shoulder JPS acuity by calculating the absolute error.

Results:

We found an interaction between group and time. To examine the interaction, we conducted two 1-way analyses of variance comparing groups at each time. The groups did not differ at pretraining; however, a difference among groups was noted posttraining.

Conclusions:

Strength training using exercises at the same intensity produced an improvement in JPS compared with exercises of varying intensity, suggesting that the former resulted in improvements in the sensitivity of muscle spindles and, hence, better neuromuscular control in the shoulder.
Acromiohumeral Distance and 3-Dimensional Scapular Position Change After Overhead Muscle Fatigue
Authors: Maenhout Annelies , Dhooge Famke , Van Herzeele Maarten , Palmans Tanneke , Cools Ann
Published: January 2015

Context:

Muscle fatigue due to repetitive and prolonged overhead sports activity is considered an important factor contributing to impingement-related rotator cuff pathologic conditions in overhead athletes. The evidence on scapular and glenohumeral kinematic changes after fatigue is contradicting and prohibits conclusions about how shoulder muscle fatigue affects acromiohumeral distance.

Objective:

To investigate the effect of a fatigue protocol resembling overhead sports activity on acromiohumeral distance and 3-dimensional scapular position in overhead athletes.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Institutional laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

A total of 29 healthy recreational overhead athletes (14 men, 15 women; age = 22.23 ± 2.82 years, height = 178.3 ± 7.8 cm, mass = 71.6 ± 9.5 kg).

Intervention(s)

The athletes were tested before and after a shoulder muscle-fatiguing protocol.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Acromiohumeral distance was measured using ultrasound, and scapular position was determined with an electromagnetic motion-tracking system. Both measurements were performed at 3 elevation positions (0°, 45°, and 60° of abduction). We used a 3-factor mixed model for data analysis.

Results:

After fatigue, the acromiohumeral distance increased when the upper extremity was actively positioned at 45° (Δ = 0.78 ± 0.24 mm, P = .002) or 60° (Δ = 0.58 ± 0.23 mm, P = .02) of abduction. Scapular position changed after fatigue to a more externally rotated position at 45° (Δ = 4.97° ± 1.13°, P < .001) and 60° (Δ = 4.61° ± 1.90°, P = .001) of abduction, a more upwardly rotated position at 45° (Δ = 6.10° ± 1.30°, P < .001) and 60° (Δ = 7.20° ± 1.65°, P < .001) of abduction, and a more posteriorly tilted position at 0°, 45°, and 60° of abduction (Δ = 1.98° ± 0.41°, P < .001).

Conclusions:

After a fatiguing protocol, we found changes in acromiohumeral distance and scapular position that corresponded with an impingement-sparing situation.
Report of activities for the geology and mineral potential of the Chantrey - Thelon area: GEM-2 Thelon tectonic zone project
Authors: Berman R G , Nadeau L , McMartin I , McCurdy M W , Craven J A , Girard E , Sanborn-Barrie M , Carr S , Pehrsson S J , Whalen J B , Davis W
J , Roberts B J , Grenier A
Published: January 2015

Foreword
The Geo-mapping for Energy and Minerals (GEM) program is laying the foundation for sustainable economic development in the North. The Program provides modern public geoscience that will set the stage for long-term decision making related to investment in responsible resource development. Geoscience
knowledge produced by GEM supports evidence-based exploration for new energy and mineral resources and enables northern communities to make informed decisions about their land, economy and society. Building upon the success of its first five-years, GEM has been renewed until 2020 to continue
producing new, publically available, regional-scale geoscience knowledge in Canada's North.
During the summer 2014, GEM's new research program has been launched with 14 field activities that include geological, geochemical and geophysical surveying. These activities have been undertaken in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments, northerners and their institutions,
academia and the private sector. GEM will continue to work with these key collaborators as the program advances.
Report of activities for geology and mineral potential of the Chantrey-Thelon area: GEM-2 Montresor project
Authors: Percival J A , Tschirhart V , Ford A , Dziawa C
Published: January 2015

Foreword
The Geo-mapping for Energy and Minerals (GEM) program is laying the foundation for sustainable economic development in the North. The Program provides modern public geoscience that will set the stage for long-term decision making related to investment in responsible resource development. Geoscience
knowledge produced by GEM supports evidence-based exploration for new energy and mineral resources and enables northern communities to make informed decisions about their land, economy and society. Building upon the success of its first five-years, GEM has been renewed until 2020 to continue
producing new, publically available, regional-scale geoscience knowledge in Canada's North.
During the summer 2014, GEM's new research program has been launched with 14 field activities that include geological, geochemical and geophysical surveying. These activities have been undertaken in collaboration with provincial and territorial governments, northerners and their institutions,
academia and the private sector. GEM will continue to work with these key collaborators as the program advances.
Iodine oxide in the global marine boundary layer
Authors: Prados-Roman C. , Cuevas C. A. , Hay T. , Fernandez R. P. , Mahajan A. S. , Royer S.-J. , Galí M. , Simó R. , Dachs J. , Großmann K. , Kinnison D. E. , Lamarque J.-F. , Saiz-Lopez A.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. Emitted mainly by the oceans, iodine is a halogen compound important for atmospheric chemistry due to its high ozone depletion potential and effect on the oxidizing capacity of the atmosphere. Here we present a comprehensive data set of iodine oxide (IO) measurements in the open marine boundary layer (MBL) made during the Malaspina 2010 circumnavigation. Results show IO mixing ratios ranging from 0.4 to 1 pmol mol−1 (30% uncertainty) and, complemented with additional field campaigns, this data set confirms through observations the ubiquitous presence of reactive iodine chemistry in the global marine environment. We use a global model with organic (CH3I, CH2ICl, CH2I2 and CH2IBr) and inorganic (HOI and I2) iodine ocean emissions to investigate the contribution of the different iodine source gases to the budget of IO in the global MBL. In agreement with previous estimates, our results indicate that, globally averaged, the abiotic precursors contribute about 75 % to the IO budget. However, this work reveals a strong geographical pattern in the contribution of organic vs. inorganic precursors to reactive iodine in the global MBL.
Observations and modeling of UHF-band scintillation occurrence probability over the low-latitude region of China during the maximum activity of solar cycle 24
Authors: Zhang H. , Liu Y. , Wu J. , Xu T. , Sheng D.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. The climatological characteristics of UHF-band scintillations over the low-latitude region of China were investigated by analyzing the observations recorded at three stations of our regional network of satellite-beacon-based scintillation monitoring in 2013. The three stations are Hainan (geographic 20.0° N, 110.3° E; geomagnetic 10.1° N, 177.4° W, dip 28.2°), Guangzhou (geographic 23.0° N, 113.0° E; geomagnetic 13.1° N, 174.8° W, dip 33.9°) and Kunming (geographic 25.6° N, 103.7° E; geomagnetic 15.7° N, 176.4° E, dip 39.0°), located at low latitudes of China. The variations of UHF-band scintillation occurrence with latitude, time and season are presented in detail to understand the morphology and climatology of ionospheric scintillations over the low-latitude region of China. An equinoctial asymmetry in the occurrences of scintillation and an obvious difference of the onset time of scintillations between Hainan and Kunming is noted in this data set. Subsequently, the ionosonde data are utilized to study the possible causes of the asymmetry between two equinoxes. The observations suggest that the mean critical frequency (foF2) at 20:00 LT (12:00 UT) in the autumnal equinoctial months (September and October) and the vernal equinoctial months (March and April) has a similar asymmetry. The ratio of the mean foF2 between two equinoxes is proportional to the ratio between the maximum scintillation occurrence in the autumnal equinox and in the vernal equinox. Therefore, this ratio can act as a proxy for the equinoctial asymmetry in the occurrences of scintillation over the low-latitude region of China, and can be used to model the equinoctial asymmetry in our empirical climatological model of scintillation occurrence probability (CMSOP). The CMSOP can provide the predictions of the occurrences of scintillation over the low-latitude region of China and was validated in this study.
The impact of atmospheric CO2 and N management on simulated yields and tissue C : N in the main wheat regions of Western Europe
Authors: Olin S. , Schurgers G. , Lindeskog M. , Wårlind D. , Smith B. , Bodin P. , Holmér J. , Arneth A.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. Nitrogen (N) is a key element in terrestrial ecosystems as it influences both plant growth and plant interactions with the atmosphere. Accounting for carbon-nitrogen interactions has been found to alter future projections of the terrestrial carbon (C) cycle substantially. Dynamic vegetation models (DVMs) aim to accurately represent both natural vegetation and managed land, not only from a carbon cycle perspective but increasingly so also for a wider range of processes including crop yields. We present here the extended version of the DVM LPJ-GUESS that accounts for N limitation in crops to account for the effects of N fertilisation on yields and biogeochemical cycling. The performance of this new implementation is evaluated against observations from N fertiliser trials and CO2 enrichment experiments. LPJ-GUESS captures the observed response to both N and CO2 fertilization on wheat biomass production, tissue C to N ratios (C : N) and phenology. To test the model's applicability for larger regions, simulations are subsequently performed that cover the wheat-dominated regions of Western Europe. When compared to regional yield statistics, the inclusion of C–N dynamics in the model substantially increase the model performance compared to an earlier version of the model that does not account for these interactions. For these simulations, we also demonstrate an implementation of N fertilisation timing for areas where this information is not available. This feature is crucial when accounting for processes in managed ecosystems in large-scale models. Our results highlight the importance of accounting for C–N interactions when modelling agricultural ecosystems, and it is an important step towards accounting for the combined impacts of changes in climate, [CO2] and land use on terrestrial biogeochemical cycles.
Revised predictive equations for salt intrusion modelling in estuaries
Authors: Gisen J. I. A. , Savenije H. H. G. , Nijzink R. C.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. For one-dimensional salt intrusion models to be predictive, we need predictive equations to link model parameters to observable hydraulic and geometric variables. The one-dimensional model of Savenije (1993b) made use of predictive equation for the Van der Burgh coefficient K and the dispersion at the seaward boundary D0. Here we have improved these equations by using an expanded database, including new previously un-surveyed estuaries. Furthermore, we derived a revised predictive equation for the dispersion at tidal average (TA) condition and with the boundary situated at the well identifiable inflection point where the estuary changes from wave-dominated to tide-dominated geometry. We used 89 salinity profiles in 30 estuaries (including 7 recently studied estuaries in Malaysia), and empirically derived a range of equations using various combinations of dimensionless parameters. We split our data in two separated datasets: (1) with more reliable data for calibration, and (2) with less reliable data for validation. The dimensionless parameters that gave the best performance depended on the geometry, tidal strength, friction and the Richardson Number. The limitation of the equations is that the friction is generally unknown. In order to overcome this problem, a coupling has been made with the analytical hydraulic model of Cai et al. (2012), which makes use of observed tidal damping and by which the friction can be determined.
SĄSAJOS TARP SUAUGUSIŲJŲ MITYBOS ĮPROČIŲ BEI ĖDUONIES SUSIDARYMO
Authors: Dzimanavičiūtė Simona , Jasaitytė Margarita , Mačiulienė Daiva
Published: January 2015

Straipsnyje pristatomo tyrimo metu buvo siekiama nustatyti sąsajas tarp suaugusiųjų mitybos įpročių ir ėduonies susidarymo. Tyrime dalyvavo atsitiktinai atrinkti, savanoriškai norintys atsakyti į anketos klausimus 153 Kauno kolegijos ir privačios odontologijos klinikos suaugusieji - nuo 18 iki 65 metų. Tyrimas parodė, kad dantų ėduonies paplitimas tarp suaugusiųjų siekė 100 proc. KPI indekso vidurkio reikšmė – 5,6. Pusės suaugusiųjų mitybos įpročiai nėra sveiki. Tarp tirtų suaugusiųjų (67%) angliavandeniai sudarė didžiąją mitybos dalį. Iš jų tik 10 proc. raciono sudarė pieno produktai. Daržovės (3%) ir žuvis (5%) sudarė mažąją mitybos raciono dalį. Nustatyta, kad didelis angliavandenių vartojimas ir nesubalansuotas daržovių, žuvies, mėsos ir pieno produktų vartojimas yra reikšmingai susiję su dideliu ėduonies intensyvumu.
ESMINIAI EDUKACINIAI SOCIALINIO DARBO ASPEKTAI
Authors: Verbylė Dalia
Published: January 2015

Straipsnyje aptariama keli esminiai edukaciniai socialinio darbo aspektai. Vienas aspektas - tai socialinio darbuotojo - mokytojo vidiniai ypatumai (identitetas ir integralumas), o tai reikalauja savęs pažinimo (intelektualinio, emocinio ir dvasinio), nuo ko priklauso mokytojo autoritetas. Kitas aspektas - sukurti mokymo/si erdvę, kurioje būtų praktikuojama tiesos siekianti bendruomenė kaip pažinimo pagrindas. Tam aptariami tiesos pažinimo ir mokymo/si būdai: linijinis, statiškas, hierarchinis ir apskritiminis, interaktyvus, dinamiškas, jų privalumai ir trūkumai. Trečias aspektas - pristatoma pažinimo bendruomenėje specifika, tai yra transcendentinis principas, galintis išreikšti save begaline įvairove formų ir technikų priklausomai nuo mokytojo identiteto ir integralumo. Toks mokymas/is pristatomas kaip sutelktas ne į mokytoją, ne į mokinį, bet į dalyką kaip objektą, esantį mokinio ir mokytojo dėmesio centre, nes toks pažinimas leidžia studentams, klientams mokytis kartu ir suteikia galimybę pažvelgti į realybę kitų akimis. Tokiu atveju pagrindinis mokymo/si metodas, labiausiai atspindintis pažinimo esmę (iš asmens vidaus į išorę) - dialogo metodas.
PACIENTŲ, KURIEMS ATLIKTA KEPENŲ TRANSPLANTACIJA, GYVENIMO KOKYBĖS VERTINIMAS
Authors: Buivydienė Arida , Basytė Viktorija , Kolosov Andrej , Valantinas Jonas
Published: January 2015

Darbo tikslai buvo ištirti virusinio C hepatito ir prieš transplantaciją buvusių kepenų ligos komplikacijų įtaką pacientų, kuriems atlikta kepenų transplantacija bei įvertinti pacientų po kepenų transplantacijos gyvenimo kokybę ir palyginti ją su bendrosios populiacijos gyvenimo kokybe. Anketinė apklausa atlikta 2013–2014 m. Vilniaus universiteto ligoninės Santariškių klinikose. Tyrime dalyvavo 25 pacientai (21–64 metų amžiaus), kuriems 2005– 2013 m. atlikta ortotopinė kepenų transplantacija. Naudota trumpa sveikatos apklausos forma (SF–36) ir Hospitalinė nerimo ir depresijos skalė (HADS). Pacientų, kuriems atlikta kepenų transplantacija, gyvenimo kokybės vertinimas buvo palygintas sergančiųjų virusiniu C hepatitu ir juo nesergančiųjų pacientų grupėse. Taip pat įvertinta, kokią reikšmę gyvenimo kokybės vertinimui turėjo prieš kepenų transplantaciją buvusios kepenų ligos komplikacijos bei palyginta recipientų gyvenimo kokybė su publikuotais bendrosios populiacijos gyvenimo kokybės vertinimo duomenimis. Statistinė duomenų analizė atlikta naudojant Microsoft Excel ir SPSS 17.0 programas. Grupių duomenų skirtumų patikimumas nustatytas pagal Stjudent‘o t ir Mann-Whitney testus. Tiriamieji aukštais balais vertino pagerėjusius socialinius ryšius (80,7±21,29 balai), sumažėjusį veiklos apribojimą dėl emocinių veiksnių (77,16±35 balai). Blogiau vertino veiklos apribojimą dėl fizinės būklės (61,2±40,5 balai), bendrąją sveikatą (62,28±26,23 balais) ir energingumą/gyvybingumą (68,4±16,88 balai). Kepenų recipientų vertinimas pagal HAD skalę rodo, kad vyrauja normalus nerimas (5,84±4,57 balo), normali nuotaika (3,2±3 balo) ir normali emocinė būklė (9,04±7,23 balo). Virusinio C hepatito grupės tiriamųjų bendrasis sveikatos vertinimas, palyginti su nesergančiais juo grupės duomenimis, yra statistiškai patikimai prastesnis (p=0,026), taip pat blogiau vertinta emocinė būsena (p=0,043). Nustatyta, kad pacientai, patyrę komplikacijų prieš kepenų transplantaciją, po jos statistiškai patikimai (p=0,01) geriau vertino fizinį aktyvumą ir socialinius ryšius (p=0,004). Palyginus tiriamosios grupės ir bendrosios populiacijos gyvenimo kokybės vertinimą, nestebėta statistiškai patikimų skirtumų nė vienoje gyvenimo kokybės srityje. Tyrimo rezultatų duomenimis, kepenų recipientų gyvenimo kokybės vertinimas beveik nesiskiria nuo bendrosios populiacijos, tiek fizinė, tiek emocinė sveikata po kepenų transplantacijos vertinama blogiau sergant virusiniu C hepatitu. Pacientai, kuriems prieš transplantaciją pasireiškė kepenų ligos komplikacijos, po transplantacijos labiau vertina pagerėjusią gyvenimo kokybę, stebimas jų didesnis fizinis aktyvumas ir geresni socialiniai ryšiai.
Mechanisms Underlying the Relaxant Effect of Galetin 3,6- Dimethyl Ether, from Piptadenia stipulacea (Benth.) Ducke, on Guinea-Pig Trachea
Authors: Macêdo Cibério Landim , Vasconcelos Luiz Henrique César , Correia Ana Carolina de Carvalho , Martins Italo Rossi Roseno , Lira Daysianne Pereira de , Santos Bárbara Viviana de Oliveira , Silva Bagnólia Araújo da
Published: January 2015

Galetin 3,6-dimethyl ether (FGAL), a flavonoid from the aerial parts of Piptadenia stipulacea (Benth.) Ducke, was found to exert a relaxant effect on carbachol (CCh)-pre-contracted guinea-pig trachea. Based on cumulative concentration-response curves to CCh, FGAL antagonized muscarinic receptors pseudo-irreversibly and noncompetitively, since it inhibited and shifted these curves towards higher concentrations in a nonparallel manner. In addition, FGAL was more potent in relaxing contractions induced by 18 mM as compared to 60 mM KCl (pD2 = 5:50 ±0:36 and 4.80 ±0.07, respectively), indicating the participation of K+ channels. In the presence of 10 mM tetraethylammonium (TEA+) chloride, a nonselective K+ channel blocker, the relaxant potency of FGAL was reduced (from pD2 = 5:12 ±0:07 to 4.87 ±0.02). Among several selective blockers of K+ channel subtypes, only apamin, an SKCa (small-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channels) blocker, attenuated the relaxant potency of FGAL (pD2 = 4:85±0:06), suggesting SKCa activation. FGAL was equipotent in relaxing trachea contracted by 60 mM KCl (pD2 =4:80 ±0:07) or 10-6 M CCh (pD2 = 5:02 ±0:07), suggesting CaV (voltage-gated calcium channel), but not ROCs (receptor-operated calcium channels) participation. Furthermore, aminophylline-induced relaxation (pD2 = 4:12 ±0:06) was potentiated around 4-fold (pD2 = 4:80 ±0:44) in the presence of FGAL. Moreover, forskolininduced relaxation (pD2 = 6:51 ±0:06) was potentiated around 2.5-fold (pD2 = 6:90 ±0:05) by FGAL. Conversely, sodium nitroprusside-induced relaxation was unaffected, indicating that the AC/cAMP/PKA pathway, but not the NO pathway, may be modulated by the flavonoid. These results suggest that, in guinea-pig trachea, FGAL induces relaxation by pseudo-irreversible noncompetitive antagonism on muscarinic receptors, modulation of K+ and Ca2+ channels, as well as activation of the AC/cAMP/PKA pathway.
Implementação do mapeamento de fluxo de valor de uma montadora de veículos, denominada empresa Beta
Authors: Vieira Mesquita Daytta Cristina , Mesquita Wisner Gonçalves , Da Silva Souza Leandro Rodrigues
Published: January 2015

Objetivou-se neste trabalho realizar a implantação do Mapeamento de Fluxo de Valor (VSM) no departamento logístico de uma indústria denominada de empresa Beta. Utilizou-se a abordagem quali-quanti, pois, com ela, obtêm-se mais informações. A pesquisa se classifica como aplicada, haja vista que as dados apresentados deverão ser aplicados na prática, destacando-se o aperfeiçoamento do tempo de processamento, redução e/ou relocação de mão de obra e redistribuição de tarefas. Quanto aos objetivos, classifica-se como descritiva, pois descreve o comportamento dos fatos. Usou-se a abordagem de estudo de caso, que permite a maior exploração dos fatos. Este trabalho demonstra as vantagens que o VSM propiciou à empresa com a implementação da ferramenta e os ganhos obtidos, como a redução de mão de obra, qualidade de vida e bem-estar dos operadores (ergonomia), maior controle das peças abastecidas e eliminação de desperdícios. Conclui-se que é possível estender a ferramenta a outros setores na empresa.
LEFT: A Latency and Energy Efficient Flexible TDMA Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors:   Institute of Technology, Nirma University, Ahmedabad-382481, India, Gajjar Sachin , Choksi Nilav , Sarkar Mohanchur , Dasgupta Kankar
Published: January 2015

This paper proposes latency and energy efficient flexible TDMA (LEFT), a medium access control (MAC) combined with routing protocol for data gathering from number of source nodes to a master station (MS) in a wireless sensor network (WSN). TDMA provides fairness, collision-free communication and reduces idle listening, which saves network energy. Data latency is reduced by allocating same transmission slots to nodes falling out of interference range of each other. Unlike a conventional TDMA, LEFT provides flexibility through slot seizing, wherein a non-holder of a slot can use slot when holder does not have data to send. This increases channel utilization and adaption to dynamic traffic patterns of WSN applications. Further, a node on a multi-hop path towards MS decides to participate in routing based on (i) its location with respect to MS, to forward data in correct direction, (ii) its current status of residual energy, to uniformly distribute energy across network, (iii) its transit traffic load, to prevent local congestion, (iv) its communication link quality, to guarantee reliable data delivery. This decision requires simple comparisons against thresholds, and thus is very simple to implement on energy, storage and computationally constrained nodes. LEFT also encompasses techniques to cater to link and node breakdowns. Experimental analysis of LEFT; Advertisement-based TDMA; Data gathering MAC; Energy Efficient Fast Forwarding and Cross layer MAC protocols using TI's EZ430-RF2500T nodes shows that LEFT is 65% more energy efficient compared to Cross layer MAC. Data latency of LEFT is 27 % less, delivery ratio is 17 % more and goodput is 11 % more compared to Cross layer MAC.
Performance Evaluation of Power Aware VM Consolidation using Live Migration
Authors:   Guru Nanak Dev University/CSE department, Amritsar, 143001, India, Sehdev Gaganpreet Kaur , Kumar Anil
Published: January 2015

Power Efficiency is the efficient use of power and is a crucial come forth in cloud computing environment. Green Computing is nothing but is a cloud computing with efficient use of power and green refers to make the environment friendly to the user by saving heat and power. Data centre power efficiency in cloud environment will be reduced when virtualization is used as contrary to physical resource deployment to book adequate to grant all application requests. Nevertheless, in any case of the resource provisioning approximation, occasion remains in the way in which they are made attainable and workload is scheduled. The objective of this research work is therefore to pack workload into servers, selected as a function of their cost to operate, to achieve (or as close to) the utmost endorsed employment in a cost-efficient manner, avoiding occurrences where devices are under-utilized and management cost is acquired inefficiently. This work has enhanced the existing work by introducing the dynamic wake up calls either to shut down the active servers or restart the passive server. The wakeup calls has been initiated dynamically. The overall objective is to decrease the response time of users which will be increased during wakeup time in existing research work.
A Call to Standardize Preanalytic Data Elements for Biospecimens, Part II
Authors: Robb James A. , Bry Lynn , Sluss Patrick M. , Wagar Elizabeth A. , Kennedy Mary F. ,   for the College of American Pathologists Diagnostic Intelligence and Health Information Technology Biorepository Working Group 2
Published: January 2015

Context

Biospecimens must have appropriate clinical annotation (data) to ensure optimal quality for both patient care and research. Additional clinical preanalytic variables are the focus of this continuing study.

Objective

To complete the identification of the essential preanalytic variables (data fields) that can, and in some instances should, be attached to every collected biospecimen by adding the additional specific variables for clinical chemistry and microbiology to our original 170 variables.

Design

The College of American Pathologists Diagnostic Intelligence and Health Information Technology Committee sponsored a second Biorepository Working Group to complete the list of preanalytic variables for annotating biospecimens. Members of the second Biorepository Working Group are experts in clinical pathology and microbiology. Additional preanalytic area–specific variables were identified and ranked along with definitions and potential negative impacts if the variable is not attached to the biospecimen. The draft manuscript was reviewed by additional national and international stakeholders.

Results

Four additional required preanalytic variables were identified specifically for clinical chemistry and microbiology biospecimens that can be used as a guide for site-specific implementation into patient care and research biorepository processes.

Conclusions

In our collective experience, selecting which of the many preanalytic variables to attach to any specific set of biospecimens used for patient care and/or research is often difficult. The additional ranked list should be of practical benefit when selecting preanalytic variables for a given biospecimen collection.
Bridged filaments of histone-like nucleoid structuring protein pause RNA polymerase and aid termination in bacteria
Authors: Kotlajich Matthew V , Hron Daniel R , Boudreau Beth A , Sun Zhiqiang , Lyubchenko Yuri L , Landick Robert
Published: January 2015

Bacterial H-NS forms nucleoprotein filaments that spread on DNA and bridge distant DNA sites. H-NS filaments co-localize with sites of Rho-dependent termination in Escherichia coli, but their direct effects on transcriptional pausing and termination are untested. In this study, we report that bridged H-NS filaments strongly increase pausing by E. coli RNA polymerase at a subset of pause sites with high potential for backtracking. Bridged but not linear H-NS filaments promoted Rho-dependent termination by increasing pause dwell times and the kinetic window for Rho action. By observing single H-NS filaments and elongating RNA polymerase molecules using atomic force microscopy, we established that bridged filaments surround paused complexes. Our results favor a model in which H-NS-constrained changes in DNA supercoiling driven by transcription promote pausing at backtracking-susceptible sites. Our findings provide a mechanistic rationale for H-NS stimulation of Rho-dependent termination in horizontally transferred genes and during pervasive antisense and noncoding transcription in bacteria.
Rettstolking og rettssikkerhet i et norsk perspektiv
Authors: Johnsen Åse
Published: January 2015

This article comprises a critical report on the status of court interpreting in Norway. The findings are based on an analysis of examples from the Bergen City Court and a survey of court interpreters in Norway. The first part of the article examines the activity of interpreting as a profession, and to what extent the interpreter is a visible professional in a Norwegian court. Thereafter I argue that the Norwegian National Register of Interpreters, with its five-tier classification system, legitimizes the use in Norwegian courts of ‘interpreters’ who have completed no interpreter training and/or possess no interpreting accreditation. While the article demonstrates that improvements have been made in the field of court interpreting in Norway since the start of this millennium, the continuing lack of professional interpreters poses a threat to the legal rights of defendants, as well as hampering the ability of professionals in the court properly to conduct their duties.
Fillers, Mime and Self-Repetitions as Most Frequently Used Communication Strategies in Oral Expositions
Authors: Tabula Rommel , Balagtas Aris , Castillo Myra Eugenia
Published: January 2015

Achieving competence in an oral communication situation has always been the ultimate goal of both teacher and students in an ESL classroom. Long years of schooling and prolonged exposure to speech communication had empowered students’ speaking ability, but anxieties still emerge in their oral expositions. This exploratory study investigated the communication strategies of students in overcoming communication anxieties in their oral expositions. It also delved into the factors affecting their communication anxieties. Using Laurilla’s (2003) Categories of Communication Strategies, data were obtained from the 25 third year BS Tourism Management students of the Mariano Marcos State University, Philippines chosen through systematic random sampling. Transcriptions of their videotaped oral expositions were analyzed in terms of the frequency of occurrence of specific communication strategies. Interview was also utilized to support gathered quantitative data. Results revealed that the most common strategies of students in managing their communication anxieties during their oral expositions included fillers, mime, self-repetition, self-repair, and mumbling. It also disclosed that attitude toward language learning, motivation in learning the language, and socio-economic status are the factors that would affect communication anxieties.
The Impact of Method on Kidney Graft and Patient Survival in Kidney-Pancreas Transplantations for Type I Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Dinckan Ayhan , Aliosmanoglu Ibrahim , Kocak Huseyin , Mesci Ayhan , Altunbas Hasan , Gurkan Alihan
Published: January 2015

Patients who develop end-stage renal disease (ESRD) associated with Type I Diabetes Mellitus may receive kidney alone (KA) transplantation, simultaneous pancreas-kidney (SPK) transplantation, or a pancreas after kidney (PAK) transplantation. The goal of this study is to examine the long-term impact of pancreas transplantation on kidney graft and patient survival rates. A total of 85 transplantation cases, consisting of 30 that received living donor KA, 21 that received SPK, and 34 that received PAK, from 2003–2010 at Akdeniz University Organ Transplantation Institute were retrospectively screened. There was a graft loss in 4 cases from the KA group, and in 1 case from each of the SPK and PAK groups. The five-year kidney graft survival rates were 86.7% in KA, 95.2% in SPK, and 97.1% in PAK. There was a single patient loss in both KA and SPK. The kidney survival percentages were higher in SPK and PAK groups compared to the KA group. Therefore, SPK should be the primary preference in these patients; however, for the cases that have a living donor, pancreas transplantation should be considered after kidney transplantation, or the patients can be followed-up on with close blood sugar control.
Fecoflowmetric Analysis of Anorectal Motor Function in Postoperative Anal-Preserving Surgery Patients With Low Rectal Cancer Comparison With the Wexner Score and Anorectal Manometry
Authors: Ryu Yasuhiko , Akagi Yoshito , Yagi Minoru , Sasatomi Teruo , Kinugasa Tetsushi , Yamaguchi Keizo , Oka Yousuke , Fukahori Suguru , Shiratsuchi Ichitaro , Yoshida Takefumi , Gotanda Yukito , Tanaka Natsuki , Ohchi Takafumi , Romeo Kansakar , Shirouzu Kazuo
Published: January 2015

The aim of this study was to elucidate whether fecoflowmetry (FFM) could evaluate more detailed evacuative function than anorectal manometry by comparing between FFM or anorectal manometric findings and the clinical questionnaires and the types of surgical procedure in the patients who received anal-preserving surgery. Fifty-three patients who underwent anal-preserving surgery for low rectal cancer were enrolled. The relationships between FFM or the manometric findings and the clinical questionnaires and the types of procedure of anal-preserving surgery were evaluated. There were significant differences between FFM markers and the clinical questionnaire and the types of the surgical procedure, whereas no significant relationship was observed between the manometric findings and the clinical questionnaire and the types of the surgical procedure. FFM might be feasible and useful for the objective assessment of evacuative function and may be superior to manometry for patients undergoing anal-preserving surgery.
Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor–Producing Cholangiocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Suzumura Kazuhiro , Iimuro Yuji , Hirano Tadamichi , Asano Yasukane , Kuroda Nobukazu , Okada Toshihiro , Tanaka Shogo , Nakasho Keiji , Fujimoto Jiro
Published: January 2015

A 61-year-old female was admitted to our hospital with epigastric pain and fever. The laboratory data showed severe inflammatory reactions. Computed tomography revealed an irregular tumor in the left hepatic lobe and swelling of lymph nodes. 18F-fluorodeoxy-glucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) showed high uptake by the tumor, with diffuse uptake in the spine. Based on the elevated leukocyte count and FDG-PET findings, the patient was diagnosed with a granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)-producing tumor (G-CSF, 213 pg/mL). We performed left trisegmentectomy of the liver, bile duct resection, and lymph node dissection. Histologically, the tumor was a poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with some lymph nodes metastasis. Immunohistochemical staining of the tumor cells was positive for G-CSF. Therefore, the tumor was diagnosed as G-CSF–producing cholangiocellular carcinoma. The inflammatory reactions and serum G-CSF level transiently improved immediately after surgery. However, 1 month later, the leukocyte count and serum G-CSF level increased again, and recurrence was observed in the remnant liver. The patient died 3 months after the operation. G-CSF–producing cholangiocellular carcinoma is rare. This tumor progresses rapidly, and surgical treatment for advanced condition should be carefully selected.
Improved Health-Related Quality of Life After Surgical Management of Severe Refractory Constipation-Dominant Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Lam Jennifer Y. , Kidane Biniam , Manji Farouq , Taylor Brian M.
Published: January 2015

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common of the functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs). Despite its prevalence and health-care costs, there are few effective therapies for patients with severe symptoms. Our objective was to determine whether surgical management would improve health-related quality of life (HRQOL) in severe refractory constipation-dominant FGIDs. From 2003 to 2005, 6 patients underwent total colectomy with end ileostomy or primary anastomosis. They completed Short Form 36 (SF-36) and IBS-36 questionnaires preoperatively and postoperatively. HRQOL was compared with age- and sex-matched Canadian norms using Welch's unpaired t test. Preoperative SF-36 physical and mental health summary scores were significantly lower than Canadian norms (P < 0.0001), while postoperative scores were not significantly different than Canadian norms (P = 0.50 and P = 0.57, respectively). After surgical management, HRQOL in patients with severe constipation-dominant IBS improved from drastically below that of Canadian norms to a comparable level. This finding questions the convention of avoiding operations in IBS patients and demonstrates that surgical management may be suitable for the appropriately screened patient.
Endometriosis in a Spigelian Hernia Sac: An Unexpected Finding
Authors: Moris Demetrios , Michalinos Adamantios , Vernadakis Spiridon
Published: January 2015

Describes the existence of endometrioma in a spigelian hernia sac. Spigelian Hernia is a rare ventral hernia, presenting difficulties in diagnosis and carrying a high incarceration and obstruction risk. Endometriomas occur due to implantation of endometrial cells into a surgical wound, most often after a cesarean delivery. A 37-year-old woman presented to our department with persistent abdominal pain, exacerbating during menses, and vomiting for 2 days. Physical examination revealed a mass-like lesion in the border between the left-upper and left-lower quadrant. Ultrasound examination was inconclusive and a computed tomography scan of the abdomen revealed an abdominal wall mass. During surgery, a spigelian hernia was found 5 to 7 cm above a previous cesarean incision. Tissue like “chocolate cysts” was present at the hernia sac. Hernia was repaired while tissue was excised and sent for histological examination that confirmed the diagnosis. Spigelian hernia is a hernia presenting difficulties in diagnosis and treatment. Endometrioma in a spigelian hernia sac is a rare diagnosis, confirmed only histologically. Clinical suspicion can be posed only through symptoms and thorough investigation.
Role of Chemotherapeutic Agents in the Management of Cystic Echinococcosis
Authors: Nazligul Yasar , Kucukazman Metin , Akbulut Sami
Published: January 2015

Hydatid disease is caused by infection with the metacestode stage of Echinococcus tapeworms of the family Taeniidae. The primary carriers are dogs and wolves, and humans are accidental hosts that do not contribute to the normal life cycle of this organism. The liver is the most commonly involved organ in the body by cystic echinococcosis (CE) secondary to infection with Echinococcus granulosus. Management options for CE should depend on the World Health Organization (WHO) diagnostic classification. Small (<5 cm) WHO stage CE1 and CE3a cysts may be primarily treated with benzimidazoles; the first-choice drug is albendazole. In some situations the combination of albendazole and praziquantel may be preferred. Chemotherapy with a benzimidazole or albendazole plus praziquantel is also used as adjunctive treatment to surgery and percutaneous treatment. Drug treatments have been the indispensable therapeutic modalities for cystic echinococcosis.
The Management of Varicose Veins
Authors: Lin Fan , Zhang Shiyi , Sun Yan , Ren Shiyan , Liu Peng
Published: January 2015

This study aimed to review the current management modalities for varicose veins. There are a variety of management modalities for varicose veins. The outcomes of the treatment of varicose veins are different. The papers on the management of varicose veins were reviewed and the postoperative complications and efficacy were compared. Foam sclerotherapy and radiofrequency ablation were associated with less pain and faster recovery than endovenous laser ablation and surgical stripping. Patients undergoing endovenous laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation are most likely to have a faster recovery time and earlier return to work in comparison with those undergoing conventional high ligation and stripping. A randomized controlled study in multiple centers is warranted to verify which approach is better than others for the treatment of varicose veins.
A Giant Lymphatic Cyst of the Adrenal Gland: Report of a Rare Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Furihata Makoto , Iida Yuuki , Furihata Tadashi , Ito Eisaku
Published: January 2015

Lymphatic type of adrenal cysts is most common; however, this type of endothelial cyst is quite rare in excessively large adrenal cysts. A 37-year-old Japanese woman was admitted to our institution with distension of her left flank and the upper quadrant of her abdomen. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a cystic lesion with a homogenous anechoic texture, and measuring 21 cm in diameter. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging displayed a giant cystic lesion adjacent to the liver, pancreas, kidney, and spleen. The origin of the cyst was not identified. We were not able to make a preoperative diagnosis; therefore, the patient underwent resection of the mass by open laparotomy for therapeutic diagnosis. Intraoperatively, the mass was identified to be cystic and adhered to the left adrenal gland. It was filled with more than 2000 mL of serous brown-red fluid. The content of the cyst contained no atypical cells on cytological examination. The wall of the cyst was composed of a lining of a single layer of lymphatic vessel–derived cells, and the cyst was pathologically classified as a true cyst. No abdominal symptoms were observed and a postoperative radiological work-up showed no evidence of recurrence during a 6-year follow-up period. We describe a case of a patient with a giant lymphatic cyst of the adrenal gland. The preset data suggest that surgeons should decide treatment strategy for large adrenal cysts in consideration of hormonal function, degree of size, and possibility of malignancy.
Hemodynamic Monitoring During Heated Intraoperative Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy Using the FloTrac/Vigileo System
Authors: Mavroudis Christos , Alevizos Leonidas , Stamou Konstantinos M. , Vogiatzaki Theodosia , Eleftheriadis Savvas , Korakianitis Odysseas , Tentes Antonios A. , Iatrou Christos
Published: January 2015

Cytoreductive surgery with HIPEC has provided a chance for long-term survival in selected patients. However, perioperative management remains a challenge for the anesthesiology team. The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in hemodynamic parameters during hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) using the FloTrac/Vigileo system. Forty-one consecutive patients undergoing cytoreductive surgery and HIPEC were enrolled. Heart rate (HR), esophageal temperature, and cardiac output (CO) steadily increased until the end of HIPEC. In the first half of HIPEC, systolic blood pressure (SBP) and central venous pressure (CVP) increased whereas systemic vascular resistance (SVR) decreased; SVR stabilized in the second half. Diastolic blood pressure (DBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and stroke volume (SV) showed no significant variation. Male gender was related to increased CVP, CO, and SV, and decreased SVR; age >55 years was related to increased SBP, and peritoneal cancer index (PCI) was correlated with HR, DBP, and SV. PCI >14 was associated with increased HR and decreased DBP and MAP. American Society of Anesthesiologists score >1 was related to decreased CO and SV. Patients undergoing HIPEC develop a hyperdynamic circulatory state because of the increased temperature, characterized by a steady decrease in SVR and continuous increase in HR and CO. FloTrac/Vigileo system may provide an easy-to-handle, noninvasive monitoring tool.