bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiometric Methods of Monitoring of a Coal Separation Process in a Pulsating Jig
Authors: Cierpisz Stanisław , Kryca Marek , Sobierajski Waldemar , Gola Marian
Published: June 2016

A new monitoring system based on the monitoring of natural radiation emitted by the material in the separation zone of a jig compartment has been developed and tested in parallel with a radiometric density meter and a conventional float. The authors investigated the correlation between the separation density monitored by the meter and the intensity of the natural radiation. The measuring head of the radiometric density meter consists of a 137Cs radiation source and a detector in the form of a scintillation counter. The signal from the detector is measured over a period of 0.15 s at the end of each cycle of pulsations (1.2 s) when the material is compressed. The control systems were installed in the second compartment of the OM20-type jig. The aim of control was to stabilise the separation density at desired values. The separation process was monitored by a radiometric density meter (RDM) to indicate changes in the separation density over a given period of time. The RDM was installed close to the upper edge of the product overflow wall to measure the density of the material separation layer reporting in half to the product and in half to the refuse. A conventional float, indicating the position of the heavy fraction in the bed, was used as a basic sensor in the control system. After first experiments the RDM replaced the float as a main sensor in the closed loop control. In the third experiment a new monitor, based on the measurement of the natural radiation emitted by the material (NRM) accumulating below the product overflow wall was used. A good correlation between the NRM indications and the RDM measurements indicates that the radiometric density meter RDM can be replaced effectively by the NRM, especially in control systems where separation density is stabilised at desired values.
Thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) of lignins isolated from the residue of corn stover bioethanol (CSB) production
Authors: Tao Yubo , Li Shujun , Li Peng , Wu Qinglin
Published: June 2016

In the course of corn stover bioethanol (CSB) production, a lignin-rich residue is left behind, which is a potential feedstock for biofuel and other high-value products. In the present paper, this residual lignin was separated by precipitation from the alkali-solution and by extraction with organic solvents (benzyl alcohol, dioxane, and ethanol), respectively. Thermogravimetric analyses (TGA) at a heating rate of 30 K min-1showed that the degradation of all lignins took place in a temperature range between 400 K and 1073 K, with maxima at around 600 K. The char yield of alkali-lignin is higher than that of the CSB residue and the lignins isolated by organic solvents. Derivative TG (DTG) curves reflect well the comprehensive thermal degradation processes. The kinetic parameters according to the Kissinger’s method indicate that the CSB residue and all lignins follow approx. the first-order reaction law, except for benzyl alcohol lignin withn=1.4. As for the effects of separation methods, the DTG curves of benzyl alcohol lignin exhibited a less regular form and its wide temperature profile may have contributed to its apparently higher reaction order.
Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) breeding in olive tree plantations
Authors: Garrote Germán , López Guillermo , Bueno José F. , Ruiz Manuel , de Lillo Santiago , Simón Miguel Angel
Published: June 2016

At the turn of the 21st century, <100 Iberian lynx (Lynx pardinus) individuals were found to occur in Southern Spain. Research conducted when the species was that scarce identified Mediterranean scrubland as its breeding habitat. In recent years, the population has grown both in number of individuals and occupied surface. Here, we describe the use of olive tree plantations with low scrub density as breeding habitats by the Iberian lynx. Our results suggest that habitats that were formerly considered as non-suitable, such as agricultural land, could indeed host Iberian lynx breeding territories in areas with low scrubland coverage if wild rabbits are abundant.
Ninomiya–Victoir scheme: Strong convergence, antithetic version and application to multilevel estimators
Authors: Al Gerbi Anis , Jourdain Benjamin , Clément Emmanuelle
Published: June 2016

In this paper, we are interested in the strong convergence properties of the Ninomiya–Victoir scheme which is known to exhibit weak convergence with order 2. We prove strong convergence with order

1
/
2

${1/2}$

. This study is aimed at analysing the use of this scheme either at each level or only at the finest level of a multilevel Monte Carlo estimator: indeed, the variance of a multilevel Monte Carlo estimator is related to the strong error between the two schemes used on the coarse and fine grids at each level.
Recently, Giles and Szpruch proposed a scheme permitting to construct a multilevel Monte Carlo estimator achieving the optimal complexity

O
⁢

(

ϵ

-
2

)

${O(\epsilon^{-2})}$

for the precision ϵ.
In the same spirit, we propose a modified Ninomiya–Victoir scheme, which may be strongly coupled with order 1 to the Giles–Szpruch scheme at the finest level of a multilevel Monte Carlo estimator. Numerical experiments show that this choice improves the efficiency, since the order 2 of weak convergence of the Ninomiya–Victoir scheme permits to reduce the number of discretisation levels.
A new proof of geometric convergence for the adaptive generalized weighted analog sampling (GWAS) method
Authors: Kong Rong , Spanier Jerome
Published: June 2016

Generalized Weighted Analog Sampling is a variance-reducing method for
solving radiative transport problems that makes use of a biased (though
asymptotically unbiased) estimator. The introduction of bias provides a
mechanism for combining the best features of unbiased estimators while
avoiding their limitations. In this paper we present a new proof that
adaptive GWAS estimation based on combining the variance-reducing power of
importance sampling with the sampling simplicity of correlated sampling
yields geometrically convergent estimates of radiative transport solutions.
The new proof establishes a stronger and more general theory of geometric
convergence for GWAS.
Verification of a Numerical Simulation Code for Underwater Chain Mooring
Authors: Zhu Xiangqian , Yoo Wansuk
Published: June 2016

Numerical simulation is an economical and effective method in the field of marine engineering. The dynamics of mooring cables has been analysed by a numerical simulation code that was created on a basis of a new element frame. This paper aims at verifying the accuracy of the numerical simulation code through comparisons with both the real experiments and a commercial simulation code. The real experiments are carried out with a catenary chain mooring in a water tank. The experimental results match the simulation results by the numerical simulation code well. Additionally, a virtual simulation of a large size chain mooring in ocean is carried out by both the numerical simulation code and a commercial simulation code. The simulation results by the numerical simulation code match those by the commercial simulation code well. Thus, the accuracy of the numerical simulation code for underwater chain mooring is verified by both the real experiments and commercial simulation code.
Electrochemical Machining – Special Equipment and Applications in Aircraft Industry
Authors: Ruszaj Adam , Gawlik Józef , Skoczypiec Sebastian
Published: June 2016

Electrochemical machining is an unique method of shaping in which, for optimal parameters tool has no wear, surface layer properties after machining are similar to the core material and surface quality and accuracy increase together with material removal rate increase. Such advantages of electrochemical machining, besides of some ecological problems, create industry interest in the range of manufacturing elements made of materials with special properties (i.e. turbine blades of flow aircrafts engines). In the paper the nowadays possibilities and recent practical application of electrochemical machining in aircraft have been presented.
Importance of Advanced Planning of Manufacturing for Nuclear Industry
Authors: Shykinov Nick , Rulko Robert , Mroz Dariusz
Published: June 2016

In the context of energy demands by growing economies, climate changes, fossil fuel pricing volatility, and improved safety and performance of nuclear power plants, many countries express interest in expanding or acquiring nuclear power capacity. In the light of the increased interest in expanding nuclear power the supply chain for nuclear power projects has received more attention in recent years. The importance of the advanced planning of procurement and manufacturing of components of nuclear facilities is critical for these projects. Many of these components are often referred to as long-lead items. They may be equipment, products and systems that are identified to have a delivery time long enough to affect directly the overall timing of a project. In order to avoid negatively affecting the project schedule, these items may need to be sourced out or manufactured years before the beginning of the project. For nuclear facilities, long-lead items include physical components such as large pressure vessels, instrumentation and controls. They may also mean programs and management systems important to the safety of the facility. Authorized nuclear operator training, site evaluation programs, and procurement are some of the examples. The nuclear power industry must often meet very demanding construction and commissioning timelines, and proper advanced planning of the long-lead items helps manage risks to project completion time. For nuclear components there are regulatory and licensing considerations that need to be considered. A national nuclear regulator must be involved early to ensure the components will meet the national legal regulatory requirements. This paper will discuss timing considerations to address the regulatory compliance of nuclear long-lead items.
Sustainable Competitive Advantage (SCA) Analysis of Furniture Manufacturers in Malaysia: Normalized Scaled Critical Factor Index (NSCFI) Approach
Authors: Tasmin Rosmaini , Takala Josu , Bakr Aliyu Alhaji Abu , Shylina Daryna , Nizialek Izabela , Che Rusuli M.S.
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this paper is to investigate Malaysian furniture industry via Sustainable competitive advantages (SCA) approach. In this case study, sense and respond method and Normalized Scaled Critical Factor Index (NSCFI) are used to specify the distribution of companies’ resources for different criteria and detect the attributes which are critical based on expectation and experience of companies’ employs. Moreover, this study evaluates Malaysian furniture business strategy according to manufacturing strategy in terms of analyzer, prospector and defender. Finally, SCA risk levels are presented to show how much company’s resource allocations support their business strategy.

This case study involved four furniture manufacturing companies, in the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia to provide the overall view of their strategies in the perspective of knowledge & technology management, processes & work flows, organizational, and information systems. Hence, the findings of this study presented the preliminary results from these furniture companies in Malaysia, which are involved in sustainable competitive advantage (SCA) studies in terms of expectation and experience, NSCFI, operational strategy triangle of prospector (P), defender (D), and analyzer (A). The result shows that almost all furniture companies are categorized into the Analyzer type strategy and planning to remain being Analyzer in future to come.
Thermographic Study of Chip Temperature in High-Speed Dry Milling Magnesium Alloys
Authors: Kuczmaszewski Józef , Zagórski Ireneusz , Zgórniak Piotr
Published: June 2016

This paper presents an overview of the state of knowledge on temperature measurement in the cutting area during magnesium alloy milling. Additionally, results of own research on chip temperature measurement during dry milling of magnesium alloys are included. Tested magnesium alloys are frequently used for manufacturing elements applied in the aerospace industry. The impact of technological parameters on the maximum chip temperature during milling is also analysed. This study is relevant due to the risk of chip ignition during the machining process.
Crystal structure of 2-amino-4-(3,4,5-trifluorophenyl)-5-oxo-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromene-3-carbonitrile, C16H11F3N2O2
Authors: Zhang Xi-Ping , Yu Fei-Jiang , He Xiang-Ming , Zou De-Hong
Published: June 2016

C16H11F3N2O2, triclinic, P1̅ (No. 2), a = 8.3288(5) Å, b = 8.6385(8) Å, c = 11.6004(8) Å, α = 111.488(7)°, β = 94.705(6)°, γ = 99.107(6)°, V = 757.87(10) Å3, Z = 2, R
gt
(F) = 0.0435, wR
ref
(F
2) = 0.0954, T = 293(2) K.
Preventing and responding to gambling-related harm and crime in the workplace
Authors: Binde Per
Published: June 2016

Aims

Problem gambling, even if it occurs in leisure time, can cause harm in the workplace. Problem gamblers are preoccupied with gambling and often suffer from psychiatric and psychosomatic symptoms caused by their excessive gambling. This may lead to inefficiency at work and absenteeism. Severe gambling problems typically lead to a constant need for money, which may result in theft of money or goods from the workplace and in embezzlement. This paper outlines measures to prevent and respond to gambling-related harm and crime in the workplace.

Methods

A review of the literature and qualitative interviews with therapists specializing in problem gambling treatment, peer counsellors from mutual support societies, recovered problem gamblers who have embezzled, and professionals working in workplace crime security and the prevention of alcohol, drug and gambling harm.

Results

Important measures in preventing and responding to gambling harm in the workplace include: substance use and gambling policy, problem gambling awareness, attention to signs of gambling-related harm, control functions, appropriate responses to harmful gambling, and rehabilitation.

Conclusion

The workplace should play a greater role in the universal, selective and indicated prevention of problem gambling.
Pregnant substance-abusing women in involuntary treatment: Attachment experiences with the unborn child
Authors: Myra Siv Merete , Ravndal Edle , Torsteinsson Vigdis Wie , Wiig Eli Marie
Published: June 2016

Background

Use of coercion against pregnant women who misuse substances was legalised in Norway in 1996. The background for the law was that substance abuse during pregnancy represents a significant health problem for the child.

Aim

The main aim of this study was to explore if an attachment between the mother and her unborn child was possible in a context of coercion as experienced from the woman's perspective. The women had many challenges, such as lack of social support and poor living conditions.

Material

Data were collected in eight qualitative in-depth interviews.

Findings

The main findings show how involuntary detention enabled safety for and connection with the unborn child. Within this context, the pregnant substance-abusing women's own relational experiences and developmental histories represent the most significant barrier for their ability to bond with the expected child.

Conclusions

The study underlines the importance of helping women with their own attachment experiences in order to break the generational transference of risk and pathology, and in this way, start the attachment process to the unborn child during the coerced treatment stay. Implications of the findings are discussed.
Area, depth and elevation of cryoconite holes in the Arctic do not influence Tardigrada densities
Authors: Zawierucha Krzysztof , Vonnahme Tobias R. , Devetter Miloslav , Kolicka Małgorzata , Ostrowska Marta , Chmielewski Sebastian , Kosicki Jakub Z.
Published: June 2016

Water bears (Tardigrada) are known as one of the most extremophile animals in the world. They inhabit environments from the deepest parts of the oceans up to the highest mountains. One of the most extreme and still poorly studied habitats which tardigrades inhabit are cryoconite holes. We analysed the relation between area, depth, elevation and tardigrades densities in cryoconite holes on four glaciers on Spitsbergen. The mean (±SD) of cryoconite area was 1287.21±2400.8 cm2, while the depth was on average 10.8±11.2 cm, the elevation 172.6±109.66 m a.s.l., and tardigrade density 24.9±33.0 individuals per gram of wet material (n = 38). The densities of tardigrades on Hans Glacier reached values of up to 168 ind. cm3, 104 ind. g−1 wet weight, and 275 ind. g−1 dry weight. The densities of tardigrades of the three glaciers in Billefjorden were up to 82 ind. cm2, 326 ind. g−1 wet weight and 624 ind. g−1 dry weight. Surprisingly, although the model included area, depth and elevation as independent variables, it cannot explain Tardigrada density in cryoconite holes. We propose that due to the rapid melting of the glacier surface in the Arctic, the constant flushing of cryoconite sediments, and inter-hole water-sediment mixing, the functioning of these ecosystems is disrupted. We conclude that cryoconite holes are dynamic ecosystems for microinvertebrates in the Arctic.
Warming and drying of tundra and glacier summer climate in NW Spitsbergen from 1975 to 2014
Authors: Przybylak Rajmund , Araźny Andrzej
Published: June 2016

Temperature and precipitation conditions in the Kaffiøyra region in the summer season (21 July–31 August) for the period from 1975–2014 are described based on data collected during 22 expeditions, in which meteorological measurements were carried out, and complete data series combining both original and reconstructed data. The latter ones were obtained using data from the Ny Ålesund meteorological station, which are strongly correlated with data from the Kaffiøyra region. Seasonal statistics presented for temperature and precipitation based on these two sets of data reveal only slight changes. Summer temperatures in the Kaffiøyra region in the studied period (1975–2014) showed statistically significant strong upward trends, while precipitation totals revealed a downward trend, but not statistically significant. In the studied area, based on 40-years of data, it was demonstrated that the near-surface lapse rates of summer air temperature are slightly lower in glaciated (0.58°C/100 m) than in non-glaciated areas (0.67°C/100 m). Anticyclonic/cyclonic circulation types significantly increase/decrease air temperature on the Waldemar Glacier, while their impact on precipitation is markedly smaller. In summer, close correlations were observed between air temperature and such glacier characteristics as the mass balance and the location of the equilibrium line, while precipitation does not have a great influence on them.
Influence of snowpack internal structure on snow metamorphism and melting intensity on Hansbreen, Svalbard
Authors: Laska Michał , Luks Bartłomiej , Budzik Tomasz
Published: June 2016

This paper presents a detailed study of melting processes conducted on Hansbreen – a tidewater glacier terminating in the Hornsund fjord, Spitsbergen. The fieldwork was carried out from April to July 2010. The study included observations of meltwater distribution within snow profiles in different locations and determination of its penetration time to the glacier ice surface. In addition, the variability of the snow temperature and heat transfer within the snow cover were measured. The main objective concerns the impact of meltwater on the diversity of physical characteristics of the snow cover and its melting dynamics. The obtained results indicate a time delay between the beginning of the melting processes and meltwater reaching the ice surface. The time necessary for meltwater to percolate through the entire snowpack in both, the ablation zone and the equilibrium line zone amounted toc.12 days, despite a much greater snow depth at the upper site. An elongated retention of meltwater in the lower part of the glacier was caused by a higher amount of icy layers (ice formationsandmelt-freeze crusts), resulting from winter thaws, which delayed water penetration. For this reason, a reconstruction ofrain-on-snowevents was carried out. Such results give new insight into the processes of the reactivation of the glacier drainage system and the release of freshwater into the sea after the winter period.
New geological interpretation of multi-channel seismic profiles from the Pacific Margin of the Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Okoń Jan , Giżejewski Jerzy , Janik Tomasz
Published: June 2016

The Polish Geophysical Expedition to West Antarctica in 1979–1980 was carried out by the Institute of Geophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences. Beside deep seismic soundings, 12 multi-channel seismic profiles, with a total length ofca1000 km have been recorded north and east of the South Shetland Islands and in the Bransfield Strait, but they have never before been completely interpreted and published. All profiles have been processed with modern processing flow including time migration. Profiles crossing the South Shetland Trench revealed distinct reflector inside continental slope, which has been interpreted as border between buried accretionary prism and overlying slope sediments of glacial-marine origin. Profiles in the Bransfield Strait show traces of the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) in the form of glacial foreground valleys, with some of them used as weak spots for young age volcanic intrusions. This paper is the first comprehensive geological interpretation of collected dataset and differences between results from other expeditions are discussed.
Cyanobacterial and algal diversity in the vicinity of two different seabird colonies in Spitsbergen
Authors: Pietryka Mirosława , Richter Dorota , Matuła Jan
Published: June 2016

The aim of the study was to compare cyanobacterial and algal assemblages occurring in ornithocoprophilous habitats formed under the influence of two seabird colonies (mixed colony of piscivorousUria lomviaandRissa tridactylaand planktivorousAlle alle) nesting on the southwest side of Hornsund (Spitsbergen). Various influences of the bird colonies (e.g.surface trophy, treading) lead to the formation of ornithogenic habitats with quantitatively and qualitatively diverse cyanobacterial and algal assemblages. Only 6 species common to both habitats were identified, but due to their different proportions the similarity ended there. Cyanobacterial and algal assemblages of both ornithogenic habitats also react rather differently to the intensity of the bird colonies’ influence. The assemblages located directly beneath piscivorous bird nests were characterized by a larger number of species, which decreased the farther from the colony it was. Cyanobacterial and algal assemblages located directly next to planktivorous bird nests were species poor, but species richness increased at locations farther from their direct influence. The obtained results confirmed that bird colonies characterized by different diet and behavior influenced the formation of two separate, quantitatively and qualitatively different cyanobacterial and algal assemblages. Species such asEucapsissp.,Gleocapsopsissp.,Gloeothecesp.,Woronichiniasp.,Hematococcussp. were characteristic for algae and cyanobacteria assemblages in the vicinity of piscivorous bird colonies, whereasAphanocapsasp.,Gloeothecesp.,Komvophoron minutum,Pseudanabaenasp.,Gloeocystissp. 2 occurred in the vicinity of planktivorous bird colonies.
Assessment of Respiratory Complications Associated with End Stage Renal Disease in Northern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alosayfir Mohammed Abdulrahman S. , Almuzaini Fahad Khaled Fahad , Alateeq Fahad Mohammed , Altayep Kheder Mohamed , Ahmed Hussain Gadelkarim
Published: June 2016

Background. The prevalence of End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) is increasing in different parts of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), particularly Hail Region. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the respiratory complications that associated with ESRD.

Methods. In the present study, clinical, imaging and laboratory parameters were identified for 100 ESRD patients with ESRD who were referred to the Pulmonary Medicine Department at King Khalid Hospital.

Results. Pulmonary Edema, Pneumonia, and Pleural effusion were identified in 22%, 14%, and 16% of the referred ESRD patients, respectively.

Conclusion. Respiratory complications are common among ESRD patients in Hail Region.
Effect of Organic and Mineral Fertilizers on Yield Parameters and Quality of Wheat Grain
Authors: Buráňová Š. , Černý J. , Mitura K. , Lipińska K.J. , Kovářík J. , Balík J.
Published: June 2016

The aim of this study was to evaluate winter wheat grain qualitative and yield parameters after the application of different organic and mineral fertilizers at two sites in the Czech Republic (S1 – Lukavec, S2 – Prague-Suchdol). For the purpose of this paper grain yield (GY, t ha−1), thousand kernel weight (TKW, g), bulk density (BD, g l−1), grain crude protein content (CP, %), and falling number (FN, s) were determined with regard to the CSN 461100-2 (2001) standard for food wheat. Significantly highest values of GY and BD at both sites and of CP at S2 were observed after the use of nitrogen in mineral form. At S1, significantly highest values of FN were obtained after the use of mineral fertilizers in combination with straw. The required limit of BD for food wheat was met for all fertilization treatments, while that of CP only at S2 by treatments with mineral nitrogen fertilizers. At S2, a strong correlation between all evaluated traits was registered. Low correlation was found at S1 between TKW and other evaluated traits.
Leptin Promoter Region Genotype Frequencies and Its Variability in the Czech Fleckvieh Cattle
Authors: Jecminkova K. , Kyselova J. , Said Ahmed A. , Zavadilova L. , Matlova V. , Majzlik I.
Published: June 2016

To investigate the differences between the lineages of the Czech Fleckvieh cattle in Leptin promoter SNP C963T, 695 Czech Fleckvieh cows (650 from production herds and 45 from the Genetic Resources Program (GR)) were examined using PCR-RFLP. The C and T alleles of Leptin promoter were observed with a predominance of C allele in both groups. The most frequent genotypes were CC (63%) in production herds and CT (48%) in the GR population. The present study describes, for the first time, the genetic differences in production herds and GR population in Leptin promoter C963T SNP. Variation within the Czech Fleckvieh population was observed and resulted in an advantage to the GR population. Results presented herein emphasized the importance of the GR program as a reservoir of genetic diversity for indigenous breeds.
Land Tenure as a Factor Underlying Agricultural Landscape Changes in Europe: A Review
Authors: Krčílková Š. , Janovská V.
Published: June 2016

Land tenure is generally considered to be an important factor affecting farming, landscape, and rural development. This paper reviews selected case studies to identify how land tenure influences agricultural landscape changes in Europe. We identified how land tenure information was transformed into variables, grouping these variables into general thematic categories: (1) land rights variables based on references to the type of stakeholders and duration of land occupancy, (2) land structure variables describing general land structure, and (3) behavioural variables dependent on stakeholders’ attitudes, perceptions, and personal values. Each thematic category can be defined on three spatial levels: parcel or production block, stakeholder, and landscape. The results show that the tenure factor is not frequently included into landscape-change studies. When a land tenure factor was part of a given study, it either played a minor role among other drivers of landscape change or, if it influenced significant landscape changes, it had only locally specific effects. Moreover, there were studies with contradictory results and so it is difficult to generalize specific findings. Nevertheless, land tenure is frequently discussed within landscape-change research in relation to land abandonment as well as green services and their connection with the European Union’s Common Agricultural Policy.
How do Takeovers Create Synergies? Evidence from France
Authors: Hamza Taher , Sghaier Adnène , Thraya Mohamed Firas
Published: June 2016

Based on bidder-target asymmetry, our study investigates the source of synergy gains derived from corporate takeovers and their specific contribution to bidder value creation. Prior researches have focused on the relevance of only one source of potential synergy. We find that French takeovers tend to create long-term operating and financial synergies. These two synergy components are positive and significant with a large contribution of the former. Furthermore, cutbacks in investment expenditures represent the most significant source of operating synergies, while post-acquisition market power is non-significant. Moreover, both total and operating synergies are higher in focused takeovers initiated by “value” as opposed to “glamour” bidders. Lastly, financial synergies are likely to arise from bidder leverage level and target relative size.
The Impact of Exchange Rates and Interest Rates on Bank Stock Returns: Evidence from U.S. Banks
Authors: Priti Verma
Published: June 2016

This paper examines the mean, volatility spillovers and response asymmetries between short-term and long-term interest rates, exchange rates and portfolios of money center, large and medium-sized banks in the U.S. I use the multivariate version of Nelson’s (1991) Exponential Generalized Autoregressive Conditionally Heteroscedastic (EGARCH) model. Results indicate mean and volatility spillovers from short-term interest rates and exchange rates and long-term interest rates and exchange rates to three bank portfolios. Results also show response asymmetries from short-term interest rates and exchange rates and long-term interest rates and exchange rates to all the three bank portfolios. These findings have important implications for bankers in terms of devising different hedging strategies against interest rates and exchange rate risks.
The Debt Overhang Hypothesis: Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Shah Muhammad Imran , Ullah Irfan , Rahman Zia Ur , Jan Nadeem
Published: June 2016

This study investigates the debt overhang hypothesis for Pakistan in the period 1960-2007. The study examines empirically the dynamic behaviour of GDP, debt services, the employed labour force and investment using the time series concepts of unit roots, cointegration, error correlation and causality. Our findings suggest that debt-servicing has a negative impact on the productivity of both labour and capital, and that in turn has adversely affected economic growth. By severely constraining the ability of the country to service debt, this lends support to the debt-overhang hypothesis in Pakistan. The long run relation between debt services and economic growth implies that future increases in output will drain away in form of high debt service payments to lender country as external debt acts like a tax on output. More specifically, foreign creditors will benefit more from the rise in productivity than will domestic producers and labour. This suggests that domestic labour and capital are the ultimate losers from this heavy debt burden.
China’s Macroeconomic Policy Options: A Sectoral Financial Balances Perspective
Authors: Sivramkrishna Sashi
Published: June 2016

This paper attempts to discern the macroeconomic policy options open to China after its stock market crash in August 2015. While several facts and figures on different facets of the Chinese economy keep pouring in – high levels household savings, rising indebtedness of private sector, slowing GDP growth rates, contracting current account surplus, and many more – it is difficult to get a holistic picture of the Chinese macroeconomy and the policy options that it has in wake of the significant changes taking place. The Sectoral Financial Balances (SFB) model, which has its basis in a simple accounting identity, provides a simple, consistent and logical framework that can help us work through the fog and put these facts and figures in perspective. At the same it allows us to trace the movement of the economy through time and draw insights into the possible trajectory of the economy given trends in various macroeconomic parameters. From our analysis, can we say that China is heading towards a major crisis? And what could be the possible policy response of the Chinese government in averting such a crisis? These are important questions that need urgent answers.
Does Education Determine Employment: Peculiarities of the Indian Labour Market
Authors: Swati Sharma
Published: June 2016

This study tests the empirical relation between the education qualifications and employment status, for the Indian workers. It also examines the role of education in securing employment in specific industries. There is evidence that the education level has a significant and positive association with the employment status of a worker. More significantly, the probability of being engaged in regular (casual) employment improves (declines) with each incremental educational qualification. The less educated workers are more likely to be involved in low-paying and labour intensive industries, such as agriculture and mining. However, the workers belonging to the marginalized social groups (SC, ST and OBC), the female workers, and the rural workers, are at a considerable disadvantage in the Indian labour market.
Unveiling the Direct Effect of Corporate Entrepreneurship’s Dimensions on the Business Performance: A Case of Big Five Banks in Pakistan
Authors: Umrani Waheed Ali , Mahmood Rosli , Ahmed Umair
Published: June 2016

The ground aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between individual factors of corporate entrepreneurship and business performance. This investigation was expected to bring in un-revealed results as the past literature does not provide any sufficient evidence for the proposed model. The study used survey method to collect data from the big five banks in Pakistan. For this reason a total of 256 responses were collected from the bank branch managers on the topic, using stratified random sampling technique. Through using PLS structural Equation Modeling, the study employed the use of SmartPLS 3.0 for executing tests pertaining to reliability and validity, this was ensured by evaluating measurement model. Next, the study assessed structure model, under which the research has revealed that out of the 5 mentioned dimensions of corporate entrepreneurship only three have resulted in a significant relationship with business performance; this was followed by assessment of r-squared values and predictive relevance of the model keeping in view the recommendations from the popular literature. Implications for further research and management professionals are mentioned in detail.
Procedural arrhythmia termination during beating-heart, stand-alone surgical ablation and long-term outcome in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Janušauskas Vilius , Puodžiukaitė Lina , Radauskaitė Greta , Zorinas Aleksejus , Aidietienė Sigita , Jurkuvėnas Paulius , Račkauskas Gediminas , Ručinskas Kęstutis , Aidietis Audrius
Published: June 2016

Objectives: Termination of atrial fibrillation (AF) during transcatheter ablation has been associated with improved outcomes in some studies. Our aim was to determine if termination of AF during beating-heart surgical ablation affects long-term results.

Design and methods: This observational, retrospective study included 69 patients who underwent minimally invasive stand-alone surgical epicardial ablation for non-valvular, persistent AF using a bipolar ablation device. Patients with confirmed pulmonary vein isolation were included in the evaluation. Absence of arrhythmia was confirmed at 3, 6, and 12 months and annually thereafter with 24-h Holter monitoring.

Results: Altogether, 39 (57%) patients were in AF at the beginning of surgical procedure. Among them, 21 (54%) recovered their sinus rhythm (SR) during the ablation: 7 (18%) had AF termination during left atrial ablation, 14 (36%) had AF termination during right atrial (RA) ablation. The remaining 18 (46%) patients required cardioversion to achieve SR. The mean follow-up was 55 ± 24 months. There were no significant differences in the patients’ preoperative and intraoperative data. The percentages of patients without AF termination during ablation who experienced freedom from AF and antiarrhythmic medications at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years postoperatively were 78%, 63%, 50%, 33%, and 43%, respectively. The corresponding percentages in patients with AF termination were 83%, 74%, 67%, 71%, and 75%, respectively.

Conclusions: There is a trend towards better long-term results if arrhythmia was terminated during surgical epicardial ablation on beating heart. Termination of AF during RA ablation (observed in 36% of patients), suggests that AF is a biatrial disease in patients with persistent AF.
Influence of Nonoxynol-9 on the Corrosion Inhibition of Carbon Steel in 1.0 M Hydrochloric Acid Solution
Authors: Abd El-Rehim Sayed S. , Deyab Mohamed Abdel Moneim , Hassan Hamdy H. , Abdel Aziz Ibrahim Ahamed
Published: June 2016

The inhibitory performance of nonoxynol-9 (N9) as a corrosion inhibitor for carbon steel was evaluated in
1.0 M HCl solution at different temperatures. Potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance
spectroscopy (EIS) and quantum chemical calculation methods were used in this study. The results indicated that the
corrosion rate decreased with increasing concentration of N9 up 150 ppm and decreased with the
increase in temperature of the medium. The comparison between the results obtained by polarization and EIS methods showed
a good agreement. The corrosion inhibition effect of N9 could be related to the adsorption of N9
molecules on the metal surface. Polarization curves indicated that N9 behaves as a mixed type inhibitor. EIS
exhibited one capacitive loop which indicates that the corrosion reaction is controlled by charge transfer process. The
inhibition mechanism of N9 involves physical interaction between the inhibitor and metal surface. The adsorption
of N9 on carbon steel affords physisorption process and obeyed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm.
Visualization of the IMIA Yearbook of Medical Informatics Publications over the Last 25 Years
Authors: Tam-Tham H. , Minty E. P. , Yergens D. W.
Published: June 2016

Background: The last 25 years have been a period of innovation in the area of medical informatics. The International Medical Informatics Association (IMIA) has published, every year for the last quarter century, the Yearbook of Medical Informatics, collating selected papers from various journals in an attempt to provide a summary of the academic medical informatics literature. The objective of this paper is to visualize the evolution of the medical informatics field over the last 25 years according to the frequency of word occurrences in the papers published in the IMIA Yearbook of Medical Informatics.

Methods: A literature review was conducted examining the IMIA Yearbook of Medical Informatics between 1992 and 2015. These references were collated into a reference manager application to examine the literature using keyword searches, word clouds, and topic clustering. The data was considered in its entirety, as well as segregated into 3 time periods to examine the evolution of main trends over time. Several methods were used, including word clouds, cluster maps, and custom developed web-based information dashboards.

Results: The literature search resulted in a total of 1210 references published in the Yearbook, of which 213 references were excluded, resulting in 997 references for visualization. Overall, we found that publications were more technical and methods-oriented between 1992 and 1999; more clinically and patient-oriented between 2000 and 2009; and noted the emergence of “big data”, decision support, and global health in the past decade between 2010 and 2015. Dashboards were additionally created to show individual reference data, as well as, aggregated information.

Conclusion: Medical informatics is a vast and expanding area with new methods and technologies being researched, implemented, and evaluated. Determining visualization approaches that enhance our understanding of literature is an active area of research, and like medical informatics, is constantly evolving as new software and algorithms are developed. This paper examined several approaches for visualizing the medical informatics literature to show historical trends, associations, and aggregated summarized information to illustrate the state and changes in the IMIA Yearbook publications over the last quarter century.
Iron-Refractory Iron Deficiency Anemia May Not Lead to Neurocognitive Dysfunction: A Case Report
Authors: Arsenault Valérie , Mailloux Chantal , Bonnefoy Arnaud , Lemyre Emmanuelle , Pastore Yves
Published: June 2016

Iron deficiency is a common cause of anemia (IDA) in infancy and can be associated with neurocognitive impairments. Iron-refractory IDA (IRIDA) has recently been described as an inherited cause of IDA due to loss-of-function mutations in the TMPRSS6 gene. IRIDA is characterized by a lack of response to iron replacement. Here we report a new case of IRIDA with its biological parameters and its functional consequences, including neuropsychological impact. The latter was evaluated by the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence–Fourth Edition and subtests. We report a 5-year-old French Canadian boy who was incidentally diagnosed with a severe microcytic anemia at 2 years of age (hemoglobin 52 g/L, mean corpuscular volume 50 fL). Except mild pallor, he was asymptomatic of his anemia. Although he had a slight response to intravenous iron therapy, his hemoglobin remained <92 g/L, with persistent microcytosis, low serum iron, but normal ferritin levels. Blood hepcidin level was higher than those of his parents and control (patient 11.2 nM, father 9.06 nM, mother 4.07 nM). Compound heterozygosity for TMPRSS6 paternally inherited c.1324G>A and maternally inherited c.1807G>C mutations were eventually identified. The patient had normal development and growth. Neuropsychological evaluation revealed excellent performance, with high Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence–Fourth Edition scores (ie, 82nd percentile for both global intelligence and general ability index). In conclusion, TMPRSS6 c.1807G>C in conjunction with c.1324G>A results in IRIDA. In contrast to the usual form of IDA, IRIDA may not be associated with neuropsychological deficits.
A Core Outcome Set for Children With Feeding Tubes and Neurologic Impairment: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kapadia Mufiza Z. , Joachim Kariym C. , Balasingham Chrinna , Cohen Eyal , Mahant Sanjay , Nelson Katherine , Maguire Jonathon L. , Guttmann Astrid , Offringa Martin
Published: June 2016

CONTEXT:

Uncertainty exists about the impacts of feeding tubes on neurologically impaired children. Core outcome sets (COS) standardize outcome selection, definition, measurement, and reporting.

OBJECTIVE:

To synthesize an evidence base of qualitative data on all outcomes selected and/or reported for neurologically impaired children 0 to 18 years living with gastrostomy/gastrojejunostomy tubes.

DATA SOURCES:

Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Register databases searched from inception to March 2014.

STUDY SELECTION:

Articles examining health outcomes of neurologically impaired children living with feeding tubes.

DATA EXTRACTION:

Outcomes were extracted and assigned to modified Outcome Measures in Rheumatology 2.0 Filter core areas; death, life impact, resource use, pathophysiological manifestations, growth and development.

RESULTS:

We identified 120 unique outcomes with substantial heterogeneity in definition, measurement, and frequency of selection and/or reporting: “pathophysiological manifestation” outcomes (n = 83) in 79% of articles; “growth and development” outcomes (n = 13) in 55% of articles; “death” outcomes (n = 3) and “life impact” outcomes (n = 17) in 39% and 37% of articles, respectively; “resource use” outcomes (n = 4) in 14%. Weight (50%), gastroesophageal reflux (35%), and site infection (25%) were the most frequently reported outcomes.

LIMITATIONS:

We were unable to investigate effect size of outcomes because quantitative data were not collected.

CONCLUSIONS:

The paucity of outcomes assessed for life impact, resource use and death hinders meaningful evidence synthesis. A COS could help overcome the current wide heterogeneity in selection and definition. These results will form the basis of a consensus process to produce a final COS.
Incidence and Outcome of CPAP Failure in Preterm Infants
Authors: Dargaville Peter A. , Gerber Angela , Johansson Stefan , De Paoli Antonio G. , Kamlin C. Omar F. , Orsini Francesca , Davis Peter G. ,   for the Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network
Published: June 2016

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Data from clinical trials support the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) for initial respiratory management in preterm infants, but there is concern regarding the potential failure of CPAP support. We aimed to examine the incidence and explore the outcomes of CPAP failure in Australian and New Zealand Neonatal Network data from 2007 to 2013.

METHODS:

Data from inborn preterm infants managed on CPAP from the outset were analyzed in 2 gestational age ranges (25–28 and 29–32 completed weeks). Outcomes after CPAP failure (need for intubation <72 hours) were compared with those succeeding on CPAP using adjusted odds ratios (AORs).

RESULTS:

Within the cohort of 19 103 infants, 11 684 were initially managed on CPAP. Failure of CPAP occurred in 863 (43%) of 1989 infants commencing on CPAP at 25–28 weeks’ gestation and 2061 (21%) of 9695 at 29–32 weeks. CPAP failure was associated with a substantially higher rate of pneumothorax, and a heightened risk of death, bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and other morbidities compared with those managed successfully on CPAP. The incidence of death or BPD was also increased: (25–28 weeks: 39% vs 20%, AOR 2.30, 99% confidence interval 1.71–3.10; 29–32 weeks: 12% vs 3.1%, AOR 3.62 [2.76–4.74]). The CPAP failure group had longer durations of respiratory support and hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS:

CPAP failure in preterm infants is associated with increased risk of mortality and major morbidities, including BPD. Strategies to promote successful CPAP application should be pursued vigorously.
The Effect of Monetary Policy on Housing Tenure Choice as an Explanation for the Price Puzzle
Authors: Dias Daniel A. , Duarte João B.
Published: June 2016

In this paper we provide an alternative explanation for the price puzzle (Sims 1992) based on the effect of monetary policy on housing tenure choice and the weight of the shelter component in overall CPI. In the presence of nominal or financial frictions, when interest rates increase, the real cost of owning a house increases, and this increase may make some people prefer to rent instead of buying. This change in consumption behavior increases the price of rents relative to other goods. Starting in 1983, homeownership costs are based on a measure of implied owner equivalent rent, which is calculated using observed house rents. This change implies that, directly and indirectly, prices in the rental market almost entirely command the shelter component of CPI, which weighs around 30% in the overall index. When we take these two pieces into account and use CPI net of shelter services as a measure of inflation, we obtain impulse responses of prices to a monetary contraction shock more in line with what is predicted by theory. In addition, our results also suggest that inflation is much less persistent than what is implied by analyses using a measure of inflation that includes shelter services. Our results pass a long list of robustness check exercises and compare well against other explanations of the price puzzle.