bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Development Plans on Hydrological Changes in the Shazand Watershed, Iran
Authors: Davudirad Ali Akbar , Sadeghi Seyed Hamidreza , Sadoddin Amir
Published: March 2016

Development plans are mainly responsible for population changes and the conversion of forest and rangelands into agricultural lands and human settlements. Qualitative and quantitative analysis of population and land use changes are necessary to assess the impacts of change on hydrological processes. However, such important issues have been less considered worldwide particularly in developing countries. Therefore, we selected the Shazand Watershed (1740 km2) because of rapid industrialization to track the effects of land use and population changes on streamflow and sediment yield. The data were collected from statistical yearbooks and satellite imageries from 1973 to 2008. All available measurements on discharge and suspended sediment concentration at the Pole doab hydrological station were also collected. The study was conducted for the whole period, as well as the pre‐1991 and post‐1991 as a basis for the economic development growth in the region. We found that the land use and population changes have occurred in the Shazand Watershed, especially in the vicinity of industrial zones. The results showed that the cities, industrial zones, roads, and bare lands quickly increased from 58 · 8 to 134 · 3 km2 during post‐1991. The flow durations, sediment rating curves and trend analyses indicated distinct variations in the relationship between streamflow and sediment and also caused changes within different periods. Based on the results, the mean annual flow and sediment yield in post industrialization (1991–2008) were respectively 0 · 84 and 1 · 19 times of those for pre‐industrialization period and the annual sediment yield increased from 25,000 to 29,850 Mg. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Plasma fatty acid patterns reflect dietary habits and metabolic health: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Li Kaifeng , Brennan Lorraine , McNulty Breige A. , Bloomfield Jack F. , Duff Dan. J. , Devlin Niamh F.C. , Gibney Michael J. , Flynn Albert , Walton Janette , Nugent Anne P.
Published: March 2016

Scope

Using pattern analysis, we investigated the relationship between plasma fatty acid patterns, dietary intake, and biomarkers of metabolic health using data from the Irish National Adult Nutrition Survey.

Methods and results

Plasma fatty acid patterns were derived from 26 plasma fatty acids using k‐means cluster analysis. Four clusters were identified, each with a distinct fatty acid profile. Cluster 1 included high proportions of linoleic acid (LA) and low proportions of stearic acid (SA); cluster 2 was higher in n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and SA; the profile of cluster 3 was higher in very‐long‐chain saturated fatty acid (VLCSFA) and lower in α‐linolenic acid (ALA) (cluster 3); while cluster 4 was higher in fatty acids related to de novo lipogenesis and 20:3n‐6 and lower in LA (cluster 4). In general, cluster 4 was associated with adverse metabolic profile and higher metabolic risk (p < 0.033). Clusters 2 and 3 were associated with healthier and protective phenotypes (p < 0.033).

Conclusion

Distinct fatty acid patterns were identified which were related to demographics, dietary habits, and metabolic profile. A pattern higher in VLCSFA and lower in ALA was associated with healthier metabolic outcome.
Assessment of a program to encourage the multidisciplinary management of urinary disorders in multiple sclerosis
Authors: Castel‐Lacanal Evelyne , Gamé Xavier , Clanet Michel , De Boissezon Xavier , Brassat David , Rischmann Pascal , Marque Philippe
Published: March 2016

Aims

Urinary disorders (UD) secondary to multiple sclerosis (MS) are common and can be responsible for complications. Since 2004, we organized in our region their management through a neuro‐urological activity and a care network that established and distributed an algorithm for screening and first line care. The objective was to assess the effects of this organization on the management of UD and its impact for patients.

Methods

Between January 2004 and December 2009, 328 patients were seen in neuro‐urological consultation. The data of a group of 168 patients consulting during the deployment of our organization (before January 2007: group 1) were compared to those of 160 patients taken when the organization was well established (from January 2007: group 2). In parallel, the modification of the prescription rate of the first‐line examination patients was evaluated.

Results

The two groups were significantly different concerning age, duration of MS, EDSS score (Group 1 vs. Group 2 respectively 51.6 ± 12.6 vs. 48 ± 11.8 years, P = 0.008; 19 ± 9.7 vs. 13.8 ± 10.5 years, P < 0.0001; 5.8 ±2.0 vs. 5.1 ± 2.1, P = 0.008). The occurrence of urinary complications in group 1 was more frequent than in group 2 (66.3% vs. 40%, P < 0.0001). The rate of first‐line examinations rose from 1/16 patient seen in January 2006 to 9/12 patients in January 2008.

Conclusion

The multidisciplinary management of UD in MS led to patients being cared for sooner in the evolution of MS, with fewer complications and to an improvement in the rate of prescription of first‐line examinations. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:706–709, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The fecal incontinence quality of life scale (FIQL) and fecal incontinence severity index (FISI): Validation of the Dutch versions
Authors: ‘t Hoen Lisette A. , Utomo Elaine , Schouten Willem R. , Blok Bertil F.M. , Korfage Ida J.
Published: March 2016

Aims

Fecal incontinence (FI) is known to have a major impact on quality of life. The Fecal Incontinence Quality of Life scale (FIQL) and Fecal Incontinence Severity Index (FISI) have been developed to assess this impact. The aim of this study was to validate the FIQL and FISI in the Dutch language.

Methods

The study population consisted of women and men experiencing FI and a reference group. The FIQL (four domains) and FISI questionnaires were validated by testing standardized measurement properties: discriminative ability, internal consistency, reproducibility, construct validity, and responsiveness.

Results

A total of 55 patients and 277 reference participants were included. Patients had significant lower and higher scores at the FIQL and FISI, respectively, than references (FIQL: 2.58 ± 0.70 and 3.92 ± 0.36, FISI: 38.57 ± 10.73 and 23.17 ± 15.01; P < 0.001), indicating worse functioning in patients and with this the discriminative abilities of the measures. The FIQL demonstrated adequate internal consistency on all domains (0.72–0.96), except for the embarrassment domain (0.55). The reproducibility was good for both measures. A negative correlation was found between the FIQL and FISI. Furthermore, the FIQL showed a positive (0.77) and the FISI a negative correlation (−0.31) with the Mental Component Summary scale of the SF‐12. Responsiveness analysis showed a minimal important change of 0.40 points for the FIQL.

Conclusions

Validity and reliability were good in the Dutch FIQL, but inconclusive in the FISI. The Dutch FIQL can support physicians in determining the impact of FI on patient's quality of life. Neurourol. Urodynam. 36:710–715, 2017. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Optimal control of human‐like musculoskeletal arm: Prediction of trajectory and muscle forces
Authors: Sharifi Mojtaba , Pourtakdoust Seid H. , Parnianpour Mohamad
Published: March 2016

Optimal trajectory and muscle forces of a human‐like musculoskeletal arm are predicted for planar point‐to‐point movements using optimal control theory. The central nervous system (CNS) is modeled as an optimal controller that performs a reaching motion to final states via minimization of an objective function. For the CNS strategy, a cubic function of muscles stresses is considered as an appropriate objective function that minimizes muscles fatigue. A two‐DOF nonlinear musculoskeletal planar arm model with four states and six muscle actuators is used for the evaluation of the proposed optimal strategy. The nonlinear variational formulation of the corresponding optimal control problem is developed and solved using the method of variation of extremals. The initial and (desired) final states (position and velocity) are used as input kinematic information, while the problem constraints include the motion range of each joint, maximum allowable muscle tension, and stability requirements. The resulting optimal trajectories are compared with experimental data as well as those corresponding to recent researches on model predictions of human arm movements. It is demonstrated that the proposed optimal control strategy using minimum fatigue criterion is more realistic in prediction of motion trajectories in comparison with previous work that has utilized minimum joints' torque criterion. Accordingly, minimization of muscles fatigue is an effective biomechanical criterion for the CNS in prediction of point‐to‐point human arm motions. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Innovative Filter Solutions for Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Pust Oliver
Published: March 2016

Hyperspectral imaging (HSI) has been used for a couple of decades in applications such as satellite imaging, air reconnaissance and other not overly price sensitive markets. Still, there is no clear definition of hyperspectral imaging. Sometimes techniques that produce 2D images with more than the typical three RGB colors or spectral channels — for example by inclusion of a near‐infrared channel — are already called hyperspectral. Mostly though, this is not considered sufficient. Typically, even ten spectral channels are still to be called multi‐spectral rather than hyperspectral.
Ledipasvir–Sofosbuvir: A Once‐Daily Oral Treatment Option for Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Genotype 1 Infection
Authors: Jensen Christopher M. , Holle Lisa M.
Published: March 2016

Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 historically has been the most difficult to treat HCV genotype, and patients infected with this genotype had been previously treated with interferon‐based therapy. In recent years, however, treatment options for chronic HCV infection have rapidly changed to an all‐oral regimen. Ledipasvir–sofosbuvir is an oral fixed‐dose (ledipasvir 90 mg–sofosbuvir 400 mg) combination of two direct‐acting antiviral drugs. Four phase 3 clinical trials (ION‐1–4) evaluated ledipasvir–sofosbuvir with and without ribavirin in patients with HCV genotype 1. High rates of sustained virologic response (SVR) occurred with ledipasvir–sofosbuvir alone in treatment‐naïve and treatment‐experienced patients without cirrhosis as well as in treatment‐naïve patients with cirrhosis when administered for 12 weeks. In treatment‐experienced patients with cirrhosis, 24 weeks of ledipasvir–sofosbuvir was also highly effective. Furthermore, treatment‐naïve patients without cirrhosis (particularly those with HCV RNA serum concentrations < 6 million IU/ml) can achieve a similar SVR with only 8 weeks of therapy. Similarly, in patients coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus and HCV genotype 1 who were treated with ledipasvir–sofosbuvir for 12 weeks, a high SVR was observed in those with and without cirrhosis as well as treatment‐naïve and treatment‐experienced patients. Ledipasvir–sofosbuvir is well tolerated, with fatigue, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and insomnia being the most common adverse effects, which are typically mild to moderate in nature. This combination antiviral can be taken with or without food. Key factors to consider when prescribing ledipasvir–sofosbuvir are drug interactions including those mediated by the P‐glycoprotein transporter and increased pH, cost of the drug or insurance coverage, comorbid conditions, and patient and provider preferences. Postmarketing experience and ongoing clinical trials will further define the safety and role of ledipasvir–sofosbuvir in the treatment of HCV genotype 1.
Investigation of the rheological properties of protic ionic liquids
Authors: Camargo Danillo , Andrade Rebecca S. , Ferreira Gicelia A. , Mazzer Helen , Cardozo‐Filho Lúcio , Iglesias Miguel
Published: March 2016

This paper reports on the synthesis of five protic ionic liquids namely 2‐hydroxy ethylammonium acetate, 2‐hydroxy diethylammonium acetate, 2‐hydroxy ethylammonium propionate, 2‐hydroxy ethylammonium lactate, and 2‐hydroxy diethylammonium lactate and the study of shear and temperature dependency of the viscosity at the range 313.15–343.15 K. 1H nuclear magnetic resonance and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra establish the simple ionic salt structure of these compounds. Because of their polar character, these protic ionic liquids are able to dissolve polar solvents and inorganic salts, all of them showing high tolerance into hydroxylic media. The experimental results showed that the viscosity of these fluids decreases strongly with increasing temperature, being of non‐Newtonian trend over a range of shear rate. The parameters enthalpy of activation (ΔH*), free energy of activation (ΔG*), entropy of activation (ΔS*), and change in heat capacity of activation (ΔCp*) for their viscous flow were evaluated. The temperature dependence of viscosities was fitted using the power law, Litovitz, Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann, and Ghatee equations. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The tangled bank of amino acids
Authors: Goldstein Richard A. , Pollock David D.
Published: March 2016

The use of amino acid substitution matrices to model protein evolution has yielded important insights into both the evolutionary process and the properties of specific protein families. In order to make these models tractable, standard substitution matrices represent the average results of the evolutionary process rather than the underlying molecular biophysics and population genetics, treating proteins as a set of independently evolving sites rather than as an integrated biomolecular entity. With advances in computing and the increasing availability of sequence data, we now have an opportunity to move beyond current substitution matrices to more interpretable mechanistic models with greater fidelity to the evolutionary process of mutation and selection and the holistic nature of the selective constraints. As part of this endeavour, we consider how epistatic interactions induce spatial and temporal rate heterogeneity, and demonstrate how these generally ignored factors can reconcile standard substitution rate matrices and the underlying biology, allowing us to better understand the meaning of these substitution rates. Using computational simulations of protein evolution, we can demonstrate the importance of both spatial and temporal heterogeneity in modelling protein evolution.
Optimizing the parameter space for increased crystallinity of silicon nanoparticles grown in the gas phase
Authors: Mohan Akshatha , Schropp Ruud E. I. , Poulios Ioannis , Goedheer Wim J. , Rath Jatin K.
Published: March 2016

Various plasma process parameters such as coupled power, process pressure (p), gas flow, and source gas ratios (SiH4:H2) play crucial roles in determining the size and crystallinity of the synthesized Si nanoparticles (NPs). One of the less studied parameters for NP growth is the inter‐electrode distance, d. Our study focuses on the effect of d and demonstrates how a reactor with larger d (refers to d = 30 mm) is a simple method to enhance the crystalline ratio of NPs produced in them compared with a standard d (refers to d = 10 mm). Increasing d or p is not strictly equivalent, and we show that for our reactor p > 0.8 mbar is most effective at d = 30 mm to obtain purely crystalline NPs. We also establish how the larger d opens up a wider parameter space for the synthesis of crystalline Si NPs.

Completely crystalline silicon NPs synthesized in this study at p = 0.8 mbar and larger d of 30 mm.
Effect of superlattice on light output power of InGaN‐based light‐emitting diodes fabricated on underlying GaN substrates with different dislocation densities
Authors: Sugimoto Kohei , Denpo Yusho , Okada Narihito , Tadatomo Kazuyuki
Published: March 2016

We evaluated the electrical properties of InGaN‐based light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) with a surperlattice (SL) layer just below the MQWs for forming V‐shaped pits (V‐pits) on underlying GaN substrates with different dislocation densities (DDs). The SL was effective for improving the EL intensity for all the LEDs with different DDs. However, the improvement ratio decreased with decreasing DD. The SL is effective for performance improvement of the LEDs with high DDs. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Exciton recombination in spontaneously formed and artificial quantum wells AlxGa1‐xN/AlyGa1‐yN (x<y∼0.8)
Authors: Toropov A. A. , Shevchenko E. A. , Shubina T. V. , Jmerik V. N. , Nechaev D. V. , Pozina G. , Bergman P. , Monemar B. , Rouvimov S. , Ivanov S. V.
Published: March 2016

We report on photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy and electron microscopy studies of an AlGaN quantum well (QW) structure grown by molecular beam epitaxy under metal‐rich conditions with substrate rotation. Both techniques reveal unintentional formation within the AlGaN barriers of a quasiperiodic structure of thin Ga‐rich layers, whose period is controlled by both the substrate rotation rate and the AlGaN growth rate. These compositional modulations act as 1‐3 monolayer thick QWs emitting below 250 nm with an internal quantum efficiency (IQE) as high as ∼30% at room temperature under weak excitation. Variational calculations of the QW exciton properties indicate that the observed high IQE can result from strong three‐dimensional localization of the excitons confined in the narrow QWs. (© 2015 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Self‐assembly of tomato bushy stunt viruses on silicon under the influence of the drop shape, drop volume and the virus concentration
Authors: Rink V. , Braun M. , Boonrod K. , Müller‐Renno C. , Krczal G. , Ziegler Ch.
Published: March 2016

Self‐assembled plant viruses, here tomato bushy stunt virus (TBSV), are interesting building blocks in nanobiotechnology. Especially genetically modified virus types show enhanced self‐assembling properties compared to the wild type (wt) virus. In this article important aspects of the self‐assembly of tetra histidine (4xHis) TBSV (histidine side chains on the capsid surface) are presented in detail. Different virus concentrations show a different wetting behavior of the solid substrate. This leads to different coverages depending on the position within the sample. In the center of the virus covered area, the most stable conditions are found and often also the highest coverage. If these central areas are compared to samples prepared with different virus concentrations, a large variation of the coverage can be detected. For the desired homogeneous monolayer of the virus, the concentration has thus to be optimized. In addition, it could be shown that the drop volume does not influence the homogeneity of the surface coverage. (© 2016 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electride: from computational characterization to theoretical design
Authors: Zhao Songtao , Kan Erjun , Li Zhenyu
Published: March 2016

Electrides are a class of materials in which anionic electrons are spatially separated from the positively charged crystalline framework. With such a unique structure, electrides show great potential in various applications, such as superconductivity, electronics, and catalysis. A number of organic and inorganic electrides have been successfully synthesized in experiment, and their novel electronic structures are studied both computationally and experimentally. Computational characterization can provide information which is difficult to be obtained from experiment. In electronic structure calculations, charge density, noncovalent interaction (NCI) index, electron localization function (ELF), and electrostatic potential (ESP) can be analyzed to identify anionic electrons in confined space. On the other hand, theoretical studies can also be used to design new electrides, such as in a recent instance of two‐dimensional (2D) electride screening. Alternatively, new applications and novel electron systems based on electrides can be explored theoretically. As an example, based on Ca2N electride, an intrinsic 2D electron gas system in free space (2DEG‐FS) has been proposed. With the aid of computational characterization and theoretical design, electride study will continue to be an important field in materials science. WIREs Comput Mol Sci 2016, 6:430–440. doi: 10.1002/wcms.1258

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Materials Science
Extended Virtues and the Boundaries of Persons
Authors: HOWELL ROBERT J.
Published: March 2016

What sorts of things undergird a person's character and what does the answer tell us about the person's relationship to her body, her environment, and the people who surround her? For the purpose of ascribing virtue, vice, and character, what are the boundaries of the person? Traditionally, philosophers have accepted mentalism, the view that only mental features are relevant to character. Even philosophers inclined to say that character is partially constituted by nonmental features would be inclined to accept skindividualism: a person's virtue must involve a disposition that is wholly grounded by features inside the person's skin. Drawing from arguments in the philosophy of mind and data from social psychology, I argue that skindividualism is wrong. Virtues can be extended, in the sense that the grounds for a person's virtues might not be inside that individual's skin. If this is the case, persons are not skindividuals.
Correlation formulas for Markovian network processes in a random environment
Authors: Daduna Hans , Szekli Ryszard
Published: March 2016

We consider Markov processes, which describe, e.g. queueing network processes, in a random environment which influences the network by determining random breakdown of nodes, and the necessity of repair thereafter. Starting from an explicit steady-state distribution of product form available in the literature, we note that this steady-state distribution does not provide information about the correlation structure in time and space (over nodes). We study this correlation structure via one-step correlations for the queueing-environment process. Although formulas for absolute values of these correlations are complicated, the differences of correlations of related networks are simple and have a nice structure. We therefore compare two networks in a random environment having the same invariant distribution, and focus on the time behaviour of the processes when in such a network the environment changes or the rules for travelling are perturbed. Evaluating the comparison formulas we compare spectral gaps and asymptotic variances of related processes.
Duality and complete convergence for multi-type additive growth models
Authors: Foxall Eric
Published: March 2016

We consider a class of multi-type particle systems whose structure is similar to that of a contact process and show that additivity is equivalent to the existence of a dual process, extending a result of Harris. We prove a necessary and sufficient condition for the model to preserve positive correlations. We then show that complete convergence on Zd holds for a large subclass of models including the two-stage contact process and a household model, and give examples.
Theory of segmented particle filters
Authors: Chan Hock Peng , Heng Chiang-Wee , Jasra Ajay
Published: March 2016

We study the asymptotic behavior of a new particle filter approach for the estimation of hidden Markov models. In particular, we develop an algorithm where the latent-state sequence is segmented into multiple shorter portions, with an estimation technique based upon a separate particle filter in each portion. The partitioning facilitates the use of parallel processing, which reduces the wall-clock computational time. Based upon this approach, we introduce new estimators of the latent states and likelihood which have similar or better variance properties compared to estimators derived from standard particle filters. We show that the likelihood function estimator is unbiased, and show asymptotic normality of the underlying estimators.
On comparing coherent systems with heterogeneous components
Authors: Samaniego Francisco J. , Navarro Jorge
Published: March 2016

In this paper we investigate different methods that may be used to compare coherent systems having heterogeneous components. We consider both the case of systems with independent components and the case of systems with dependent components. In the first case, the comparisons are based on the new concept of the survival signature due to Coolen and Coolen-Maturi (2012) which extends the well-known concept of system signatures to the case of components with lifetimes that need not be independent and identically distributed. In the second case, the comparisons are based on the concept of distortion functions. A graphical procedure (called an RR-plot) is proposed as an alternative to the analytical methods when there are two types of components.
Long ring waves in a stratified fluid over a shear flow
Authors: Khusnutdinova Karima R. , Zhang Xizheng
Published: March 2016

Oceanic waves registered by satellite observations often have curvilinear fronts and propagate over various currents. In this paper we study long linear and weakly nonlinear ring waves in a stratified fluid in the presence of a depth-dependent horizontal shear flow. It is shown that, despite the clashing geometries of the waves and the shear flow, there exists a linear modal decomposition (different from the known decomposition in Cartesian geometry), which can be used to describe distortion of the wavefronts of surface and internal waves, and systematically derive a $2+1$-dimensional cylindrical Korteweg–de Vries-type equation for the amplitudes of the waves. The general theory is applied to the case of the waves in a two-layer fluid with a piecewise-constant current, with an emphasis on the effect of the shear flow on the geometry of the wavefronts. The distortion of the wavefronts is described by the singular solution (envelope of the general solution) of the nonlinear first-order differential equation, constituting generalisation of the dispersion relation in this curvilinear geometry. There exists a striking difference in the shapes of the wavefronts of surface and interfacial waves propagating over the same shear flow.
On the steady-state nearly resonant waves
Authors: Liao Shijun , Xu Dali , Stiassnie Michael
Published: March 2016

The steady-state nearly resonant water waves with time-independent spectrum in deep water are obtained from the full wave equations for inviscid, incompressible gravity waves in the absence of surface tension by means of a analytic approximation approach based on the homotopy analysis method (HAM). Our strategy is to mathematically transfer the steady-state nearly resonant wave problem into the steady-state exactly resonant ones. By means of choosing a generalized auxiliary linear operator that is a little different from the linear part of the original wave equations, the small divisor, which is unavoidable for nearly resonant waves in the frame of perturbation methods, is avoided, or moved far away from low wave frequency to rather high wave frequency with physically negligible wave energy. It is found that the steady-state nearly resonant waves have nothing fundamentally different from the steady-state exactly resonant ones, from physical and numerical viewpoints. In addition, the validity of this HAM-based analytic approximation approach for the full wave equations in deep water is numerically verified by means of the Zakharov’s equation. A thought experiment is discussed, which suggests that the essence of the so-called ‘wave resonance’ should be reconsidered carefully from both of physical and mathematical viewpoints.
Generalised higher-order Kolmogorov scales
Authors: Boschung Jonas , Hennig Fabian , Gauding Michael , Pitsch Heinz , Peters Norbert
Published: March 2016

Kolmogorov introduced dissipative scales based on the mean dissipation $\langle {\it\varepsilon}\rangle$ and the viscosity ${\it\nu}$, namely the Kolmogorov length ${\it\eta}=({\it\nu}^{3}/\langle {\it\varepsilon}\rangle )^{1/4}$ and the velocity $u_{{\it\eta}}=({\it\nu}\langle {\it\varepsilon}\rangle )^{1/4}$. However, the existence of smaller scales has been discussed in the literature based on phenomenological intermittency models. Here, we introduce exact dissipative scales for the even-order longitudinal structure functions. The derivation is based on exact relations between even-order moments of the longitudinal velocity gradient $(\partial u_{1}/\partial x_{1})^{2m}$ and the dissipation $\langle {\it\varepsilon}^{m}\rangle$. We then find a new length scale ${\it\eta}_{C,m}=({\it\nu}^{3}/\langle {\it\varepsilon}^{m/2}\rangle ^{2/m})^{1/4}$ and $u_{C,m}=({\it\nu}\langle {\it\varepsilon}^{m/2}\rangle ^{2/m})^{1/4}$, i.e. the dissipative scales depend rather on the moments of the dissipation $\langle {\it\varepsilon}^{m/2}\rangle$ and thus the full probability density function (p.d.f.) $P({\it\varepsilon})$ instead of powers of the mean $\langle {\it\varepsilon}\rangle ^{m/2}$. The results presented here are exact for longitudinal even-ordered structure functions under the assumptions of (local) isotropy, (local) homogeneity and incompressibility, and we find them to hold empirically also for the mixed and transverse as well as odd orders. We use direct numerical simulations (DNS) with Reynolds numbers from $Re_{{\it\lambda}}=88$ up to $Re_{{\it\lambda}}=754$ to compare the different scalings. We find that indeed $P({\it\varepsilon})$ or, more precisely, the scaling of $\langle {\it\varepsilon}^{m/2}\rangle /\langle {\it\varepsilon}\rangle ^{m/2}$ as a function of the Reynolds number is a key parameter, as it determines the ratio ${\it\eta}_{C,m}/{\it\eta}$ as well as the scaling of the moments of the velocity gradient p.d.f. As ${\it\eta}_{C,m}$ is smaller than ${\it\eta}$, this leads to a modification of the estimate of grid points required for DNS.
Comparison of 14C Collected by Precipitation and Gas-Strip Methods for Dating Groundwater
Authors: Nakata Kotaro , Hasegawa Takuma , Iwatsuki Teruki , Kato Toshihiro
Published: March 2016

Dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in groundwater is used to estimate the residence time based on radiocarbon concentration. DIC is usually extracted by a gas-strip or precipitation (SrCO3 or BaCO3) method. In this study, the gas-strip and precipitation methods of DIC were applied to both artificially prepared NaHCO3 solutions and natural groundwater to estimate the certainty of the two methods for 14C dating. 14C values obtained by the gas-strip method for NaHCO3 solutions with distinct salinity, DIC, and 14C concentrations were close to the theoretically predicted 14C value based on the 14C value of NaHCO3 powder. Conversely, the 14C value obtained by the precipitation method always showed higher values than the predicted values. The difference in 14C value between the gas-strip and precipitation methods was assumed to be caused by the contamination of modern carbon in the NaOH solution used in the precipitation method. The contamination of modern carbon derived from the NaOH solution during precipitation was found to range from less than 1 mg/L to about 1 mg/L. The applicability of the precipitation method for groundwater should be considered carefully according to the DIC, 14C concentration of groundwater, and purpose of the study being conducted.
Joint Vertex Degrees in the Inhomogeneous Random Graph Model ℊ(n,{pij
})
Authors: Lin Kaisheng , Reinert Gesine
Published: March 2016

In a random graph, counts for the number of vertices with given degrees will typically be dependent. We show via a multivariate normal and a Poisson process approximation that, for graphs which have independent edges, with a possibly inhomogeneous distribution, only when the degrees are large can we reasonably approximate the joint counts as independent. The proofs are based on Stein's method and the Stein-Chen method with a new size-biased coupling for such inhomogeneous random graphs, and, hence, bounds on the distributional distance are obtained. Finally, we illustrate that apparent (pseudo-)power-law-type behaviour can arise in such inhomogeneous networks despite not actually following a power-law degree distribution.
On the Backward Euler Approximation of the Stochastic Allen-Cahn Equation
Authors: Kovács Mihály , Larsson Stig , Lindgren Fredrik
Published: March 2016

We consider the stochastic Allen-Cahn equation perturbed by smooth additive Gaussian noise in a spatial domain with smooth boundary in dimension d ≤ 3, and study the semidiscretization in time of the equation by an implicit Euler method. We show that the method converges pathwise with a rate O(Δt
γ) for any γ < ½. We also prove that the scheme converges uniformly in the strong L

p
-sense but with no rate given.
First Passage Optimality and Variance Minimisation of Markov Decision Processes with Varying Discount Factors
Authors: Wu Xiao , Guo Xianping
Published: March 2016

This paper deals with the first passage optimality and variance minimisation problems of discrete-time Markov decision processes (MDPs) with varying discount factors and unbounded rewards/costs. First, under suitable conditions slightly weaker than those in the previous literature on the standard (infinite horizon) discounted MDPs, we establish the existence and characterisation of the first passage expected-optimal stationary policies. Second, to further distinguish the expected-optimal stationary policies, we introduce the variance minimisation problem, prove that it is equivalent to a new first passage optimality problem of MDPs, and, thus, show the existence of a variance-optimal policy that minimises the variance over the set of all first passage expected-optimal stationary policies. Finally, we use a computable
example to illustrate our main results and also to show the difference between the first passage optimality here and the standard discount optimality of MDPs in the previous literature.
A Stochastic Failure Model with Dependent Competing Risks and its Applications to Condition-Based Maintenance
Authors: Cha Ji Hwan , Castro Inma T.
Published: March 2016

In this paper a stochastic failure model for a system with stochastically dependent competing failures is analyzed. The system is subject to two types of failure: degradation failure and catastrophic failure. Both types of failure share an initial common source: an external shock process. This implies that they are stochastically dependent. In our developments of the model, the type of dependency between the two kinds of failure will be characterized. Conditional properties of the two competing risks are also investigated. These properties are the fundamental basis for the development of the maintenance strategy studied in this paper. Considering this maintenance strategy, the long-run average cost rate is derived and the optimal maintenance policy is discussed.
Asymptotic hitting probabilities for the Bolthausen-Sznitman coalescent
Authors: Möhle Martin
Published: March 2016

The probability h(n, m) that the block counting process of the Bolthausen-Sznitman n-coalescent ever visits the state m is analyzed. It is shown that the asymptotic hitting probabilities h(m) = lim
n→∞
h(n, m), m ∈ N, exist and an integral formula for h(m) is provided. The proof is based on generating functions and exploits a certain convolution property of the Bolthausen-Sznitman coalescent. It follows that h(m) ∼ 1/log m as m → ∞. An application to linear recursions is indicated.
Asymmetric COGARCH processes
Authors: Behme Anita , Klüppelberg Claudia , Mayr Kathrin
Published: March 2016

Financial data are as a rule asymmetric, although most econometric models are symmetric. This applies also to continuous-time models for high-frequency and irregularly spaced data. We discuss some asymmetric versions of the continuous-time GARCH model, concentrating then on the GJR-COGARCH model. We calculate higher-order moments and extend the first-jump approximation. These results are prerequisites for moment estimation and pseudo maximum likelihood estimation of the GJR-COGARCH model parameters, respectively, which we derive in detail.
Quasistochastic matrices and Markov renewal theory
Authors: Alsmeyer Gerold
Published: March 2016

Let 𝓈 be a finite or countable set. Given a matrix F = (F

ij
)
i,j∈𝓈
of distribution functions on R and a quasistochastic matrix Q = (q

ij
)
i,j∈𝓈
, i.e. an irreducible nonnegative matrix with maximal eigenvalue 1 and associated unique (modulo scaling) positive left and right eigenvectors u and v, the matrix renewal measure ∑
n≥0
Q

n
⊗ F
*n
associated with Q ⊗ F := (q

ij

F

ij
)
i,j∈𝓈
(see below for precise definitions) and a related Markov renewal equation are studied. This was done earlier by de Saporta (2003) and Sgibnev (2006, 2010) by drawing on potential theory, matrix-analytic methods, and Wiener-Hopf techniques. In this paper we describe a probabilistic approach which is quite different and starts from the observation that Q ⊗ F becomes an ordinary semi-Markov matrix after a harmonic transform. This allows us to relate Q ⊗ F to a Markov random walk {(M

n
, S

n
)}
n≥0 with discrete recurrent driving chain {M

n
}
n≥0. It is then shown that renewal theorems including a Choquet-Deny-type lemma may be easily established by resorting to standard renewal theory for ordinary random walks. The paper concludes with two typical examples.
On a generalization of a waiting time problem and some combinatorial identities
Authors: El-desouky B. S. , Shiha F. A. , Magar A. M.
Published: March 2016

In this paper we give an extension of the results of the generalized waiting time problem given by El-Desouky and Hussen (1990). An urn contains m types of balls of unequal numbers, and balls are drawn with replacement until first duplication. In the case of finite memory of order k, let ni
be the number of type i, i = 1, 2, …, m. The probability of success pi
= ni/N, i = 1, 2, …, m, where ni
is a positive integer and Let Ym,k
be the number of drawings required until first duplication. We obtain some new expressions of the probability function, in terms of Stirling numbers, symmetric polynomials, and generalized harmonic numbers. Moreover, some special cases are investigated. Finally, some important new combinatorial identities are obtained.
Local martingales with two reflecting barriers
Authors: Pihlsgård Mats
Published: March 2016

We give an account of the characteristics that result from reflecting a drifting local martingale (i.e. the sum of a local martingale and a multiple of its quadratic variation process) in 0 and b > 0. We present conditions which guarantee the existence of finite moments of what is required to keep the reflected process within its boundaries. Also, we derive an associated law of large numbers and a central limit theorem which apply when the input is continuous. Similar results for integrals of the paths of the reflected process are also presented. These results are in close agreement to what has previously been shown for Brownian motion.
Extension of the past lifetime and its connection to the cumulative entropy
Authors: Di Crescenzo Antonio , Toomaj Abdolsaeed
Published: March 2016

Given two absolutely continuous nonnegative independent random variables, we define the reversed relevation transform as dual to the relevation transform. We first apply such transforms to the lifetimes of the components of parallel and series systems under suitably proportionality assumptions on the hazard rates. Furthermore, we prove that the (reversed) relevation transform is commutative if and only if the proportional (reversed) hazard rate model holds. By repeated application of the reversed relevation transform we construct a decreasing sequence of random variables which leads to new weighted probability densities. We obtain various relations involving ageing notions and stochastic orders. We also exploit the connection of such a sequence to the cumulative entropy and to an operator that is dual to the Dickson-Hipp operator. Iterative formulae for computing the mean and the cumulative entropy of the random variables of the sequence are finally investigated.
A remark on optimal variance stopping problems
Authors: Buonaguidi Bruno
Published: March 2016

In an optimal variance stopping problem the goal is to determine the stopping time at which the variance of a sequentially observed stochastic process is maximized. A solution method for such a problem has been recently provided by Pedersen (2011). Using the methodology developed by Pedersen and Peskir (2012), our aim is to show that the solution to the initial problem can be equivalently obtained by constraining the variance stopping problem to the expected size of the stopped process and then by maximizing the solution to the latter problem over all the admissible constraints. An application to a diffusion process used for modeling the dynamics of interest rates illustrates the proposed technique.
Capturing Accuracy in Second Language Performance: The Case for a Weighted Clause Ratio
Authors: Foster Pauline , Wigglesworth Gillian
Published: March 2016

As increasing numbers of research papers in applied linguistics, language learning, and assessment use discourse analysis techniques to assess accuracy in performance, it is timely to examine at a detailed level the wide variety of measures employed. Ideally, measures need to capture accuracy in as valid and reliable a way as possible, but this has proved elusive. In this article, we systematically review the variety of different measures in used in these fields, both global and local, before presenting a more finely tuned weighted clause ratio measure which classifies errors at different levels, that is, those that seriously impede communication, those that impair communication to some degree, and those that do not impair communication at all. The problem of reliably identifying these levels is discussed, followed by an analysis of samples from written and spoken second language performance data. This new measure, grounded in a comprehensive review of prior practice in the field, has the advantages of being relatively easy to use, measuring accuracy rather than error, and evaluating smaller increases in improved performance than have previously been possible.
Mode in Theoretical and Empirical TBLT Research: Advancing Research Agendas
Authors: Gilabert Roger , Manchón Rosa , Vasylets Olena
Published: March 2016

In this article we explore how oral and written modes may differentially influence processes involved in second language acquisition (SLA) in the context of task-based language teaching (TBLT). We first start by reflecting on the differences between spoken and written language. In what follows, we provide a general description of tasks in relation to the SLA processes. We then establish the links between the learning processes and task phases/features in the two modes. Concluding that the role of mode has been underresearched, we call for a more integrative and mode-sensitive TBLT research agenda, in which hybridness of discourse (i.e., mingling of the two modes within one communicative event/task) is taken into account.
Dynamical Simulations: Methods and Comparisons
Authors: Heggie D.C. , Giersz Mirek , Spurzem Rainer , Takahashi Koji
Published: March 2016

In the dynamical study of globular star clusters, five types of dynamical models are in current use. The following list includes recent highlights, some of which are developed in these proceedings by other authors.
Stellar Evolution and Dynamics in Star Clusters
Authors: Zwart Simon F. Portegies , Tout Christopher A. , Lee Hyung Mok
Published: March 2016

Dynamical models of star clusters are maturing in the sense that effects other than simple point particle dynamics are taken into account. We summarize the relevance of, and prospects for, this new generation of N-body models.
LTE Models
Authors: Kurucz Robert L.
Published: March 2016

I can compute arbitrary-abundance models and spectra at high resolution using millions of atomic and diatomic molecular lines. Examples are given for Sakurai’s object and for a λBoo star. I am continuing to improve the input line data.
Spectroscopic Diagnosis of Magnetic Fields of AP Stars
Authors: Mathys G.
Published: March 2016

Diagnosis of Ap star magnetic fields through spectroscopic methods is a broad topic, which cannot be fully covered within the rather tight limits of this contribution. Accordingly, the latter is devoted to only one particular approach, namely the determination of the mean magnetic field modulus from the observation of resolved magnetically split lines in high-dispersion spectra taken in unpolarized light. This determination is straightforward, mostly approximation free and model independent. The derived quantity, the mean magnetic field modulus, is the line-intensity weighted average over the visible stellar hemisphere of the modulus of the magnetic vector.
Summary – A Personal View
Authors: StȩpieŃ Kazimierz
Published: March 2016

Let me first remind you of the subject of the present Joint Discussion. It is about spectroscopy with large telescopes. As I have never done any spectroscopic research of my own and I have never observed with a very large telescope, I am certainly the right person to summarize the most recent results in this area.
A New Museum of Astronomy in Korea
Authors: Il-Seong Nha
Published: March 2016

The construction of a new museum of astronomy is planned by the present author in Yecheon Prefecture (λ = 128°28’ E, (ϕ> = 36°39’ N), Korea, with the openning date set in October, 1999. The aims of the museum directed in three area: (1) to exhibit astronomical works available in Korea, China, Japan and other regions of the Far East; (2) to serve the publics with written material for the study of history of Oriental astronomy; and (3) to operate a 40-cm reflecting telescope for researches of both professionals and amateur astronomers. A long-term project of the reconstruction of King Sejong’s instruments, which were made in the 15th century in the Kyongbok Palace, Seoul, is also an important subject of this museum.
Takamine and Saha: Contacts with Western Astrophysics
Authors: Devorkin David H.
Published: March 2016

In the fall of 1920 two young scholars happened to meet in London and found they had many interests in common in laboratory spectroscopy and astrophysics. One was an Indian and the other a Japanese, and their paths crossed as they visited American and European centers to learn the tools and techniques of the quantum theory. The young Japanese scholar, T. Takamine, whose home base was then the Institute of Physical and Chemical Research in Tokyo, was delighted to have met Meghnad Saha, from Calcutta, who was just putting the finishing touches on his fourth paper on ionization equilibrium in the atmospheres of the sun and stars. When they met, Takamine and Saha spoke of Sommerfeld’s theories, and pledged to keep in touch. Thus began a correspondence that lasted for some twenty years, as Takamine returned to Japan from his long visits to American and European observatories and spectroscopic laboratories, and Saha returned to India. Of the two, Takamine had stayed the longer time in the West, mainly at Mount Wilson where he was in residence through much of 1919 working with John Anderson and A. S. King, and published on the ”The Stark Effect for Metals.” Takamine also returned to Mount Wilson in 1924, and toured many spectroscopic laboratories in the United States continuing to hone his interests and technique. Elsewhere I have examined Saha’s contacts with western astrophysics. Here I examine briefly how Takamine established and maintained contacts in the West and why he did so.