bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Satellite-Based Bathymetric Modeling Using a Wavelet Network Model
Authors: El-Diasty Mohammed
Published: September 2019

Accurate bathymetric modeling is required for safe maritime navigation in shallow waters as well as for other marine operations. Traditionally, bathymetric modeling is commonly carried out using linear models, such as the Stumpf method. Linear methods are developed to derive bathymetry using the strong linear correlation between the grey values of satellite imagery visible bands and the water depth where the energy of these visible bands, received at the satellite sensor, is inversely proportional to the depth of water. However, without satisfying homogeneity of the seafloor topography, this linear method fails. The current state-of-the-art is represented by artificial neural network (ANN) models, which were developed using a non-linear, static modeling function. However, more accurate modeling can be achieved using a highly non-linear, dynamic modeling function. This paper investigates a highly non-linear wavelet network model for accurate satellite-based bathymetric modeling with dynamic non-linear wavelet activation function that has been proven to be a valuable modeling method for many applications. Freely available Level-1C satellite imagery from the Sentinel-2A satellite was employed to develop and justify the proposed wavelet network model. The top-of-atmosphere spectral reflectance values for the multispectral bands were employed to establish the wavelet network model. It is shown that the root-mean-squared (RMS) error of the developed wavelet network model was about 1.82 m, and the correlation between the wavelet network model depth estimate and “truth” nautical chart depths was about 95%, on average. To further justify the proposed model, a comparison was made among the developed, highly non-linear wavelet network method, the Stumpf log-ratio method, and the ANN method. It is concluded that the developed, highly non-linear wavelet network model is superior to the Stumpf log-ratio method by about 37% and outperforms the ANN model by about 21%, on average, on the basis of the RMS errors. Also, the accuracy of the bathymetry-derived wavelet network model was evaluated on the basis of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO)’s standards for all survey orders. It is shown that the accuracy of the bathymetry derived from the wavelet network model does not meet the IHO’s standards for all survey orders; however, the wavelet network model can still be employed as an accurate and powerful tool for survey planning when conducting hydrographic surveys for new, shallow water areas.
Modified Colon Leakage Score to Predict Anastomotic Leakage in Patients Who Underwent Left-Sided Colorectal Surgery
Authors: Yang Seung Up , Park Eun Jung , Baik Seung Hyuk , Lee Kang Young , Kang Jeonghyun
Published: September 2019

Colon leakage score (CLS) was introduced as a clinical tool to predict anastomotic leakage (AL) in patients who underwent left-sided colorectal surgery, but its clinical validity has not been widely studied. We evaluated the clinical utility of CLS and developed a modified CLS (m-CLS). In total, 566 patients who underwent left-sided colorectal surgery were enrolled and categorized into training (n = 396) and validation (n = 170) sets via random sampling. Using CLS variables, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model was applied for variable selection and predictive signature building in the training set. The model’s performance was validated in the validation set. The predictive powers of m-CLS and CLS were compared by the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) curve in the overall group. Twenty-three AL events (4.1%) were noted. The AL group had a significantly higher mean CLS than the No Leakage group (12.5 vs. 9.6, p = 0.001). Five clinical variables were selected and used to generate m-CLS. The predictive performance of m-CLS was similar in training and validation sets (AUROC 0.838 vs. 0.803, p = 0.724). In the overall set, m-CLS was significantly predictive of AL and performed better than CLS (AUROC 0.831 vs. 0.701, p = 0.008). In conclusion, LASSO-model-generated m-CLS could predict AL more accurately than CLS.
Analogical and Digital Workflow in the Design and Preparation of the Emergence Profile of Biologically Oriented Preparation Technique (BOPT) Crowns over Implants in the Working Model
Authors: Cabanes-Gumbau Guillermo , Soto-Peñaloza David , Peñarrocha-Diago Miguel , Peñarrocha-Diago María
Published: September 2019

: The Biologically Oriented Preparation Technique (BOPT), developed by Ignacio Loi and published in 2008, is a consolidated concept in the modeling and preservation of pericoronal soft tissues. The present study describes the analogical and digital methods allowing adequate design and preparation of the emergence profile of BOPT crowns in the working model, with a view to comparing the workflow and advantages of each method. At present, not all the digital procedures have been fully optimized to completely replace the traditional analogical methods. Nevertheless, it is only a matter of time until dental digitalization technology totally replaces the analogical clinical methods. The digital workflow for this procedure is quickly implemented and optimized, and represents the most realistic option, with possibilities for further development in the immediate future.
Language Education for Forced Migrants: Governance and Approach
Authors: Chick Mike , Hannagan-Lewis Iona
Published: September 2019

This article stems from research conducted into the barriers to education, employment and language learning for refugees resettled into the convergence areas of Wales, UK. The authors consider that effective language programmes should play a key role in migration policies designed for multilingual, multicultural societies. The provision of English language classes for speakers of other languages (ESOL) ensures equality of opportunities, and in doing so, enriches the culture of our societies. By highlighting the challenges to language learning faced by refugees on the Syrian Vulnerable Persons’ Resettlement Scheme (VPRS), this article draws attention to the fact that government directives for language provision commissioned under VPRS often do not sufficiently meet the needs of teachers and learners at grassroots level. Recommendations for greater flexibility in the organisation of ESOL provision for those resettled under VPRS are put forward. While this paper focuses on the specific case study of VPRS participants in Wales, it is hoped that recommendations around changes to policy and practice in language learning may be applicable to teachers, policy-makers, and community organisers working at the nexus of language and migration.
Modelling of Guillotine Cutting of a Cold-Rolled Steel Sheet
Authors: Kaczmarczyk Jarosław
Published: September 2019

In this paper, the modelling of a cutting process of a cold-rolled steel sheet using a symmetrical cutting tool is presented. The fast-changing nonlinear dynamic cutting process was elaborated by means of the finite element method and the computer system LS-DYNA. Experimental investigations using scanning electron microscopy were performed and the results are presented in this work. The numerical results were compared with experimental ones. The comparison shows a good agreement between the results obtained by means of numerical modelling and those received from experimental investigations. The numerical simulations of the cutting process and the experimental investigations aimed to understand the mechanism of the cutting process. They serve as a highly professional tool for carrying out research investigating the behavior of complex nonlinear fast-changing dynamical cutting processes in the future.
Fabrication of Soft Sensor Using Laser Processing Techniques: For the Alternative 3D Printing Process
Authors: Seo Myeongjoo , Hwang Suwon , Hwang Taeseung , Yeo Junyeob
Published: September 2019

Recently, the rapid prototyping process was actively studied in industry and academia. The rapid prototyping process has various advantages such as a rapid processing speed, high processing freedom, high efficiency, and eco-friendly process compared to the conventional etching process. However, in general, it is difficult to directly apply to the fabrication of electric devices, as the molding made by the rapid prototyping process is usually a nonconductive polymer. Even when a conductive material is used for the rapid prototyping process, the molding is made by a single material; thus, its application is limited. In this study, we introduce a simple alternative process for the fabrication of a soft sensor using laser processing techniques. The UV laser curing of polymer resin and laser welding of nanowires are conducted and analyzed. Through the laser processing techniques, we can easily fabricate soft sensors, which is considered an alternative 3D printing process for the fabrication of soft sensors.
Behavior of an Advanced Bolted Shear Connector in Prefabricated Steel-Concrete Composite Beams
Authors: Chen Jun , Wang Wei , Ding Fa-Xing , Xiang Ping , Yu Yu-Jie , Liu Xue-Mei , Xu Fu , Yang Cai-Qian , Long Shi-Guo
Published: September 2019

The high-strength bolt shear connector in prefabricated concrete slab has advantages in applications as it reduces time during the construction of steel-concrete composite building structures and bridges. In this research, an innovative and advanced bolt shear connector in steel-concrete composite structures is proposed. To investigate the fundamental mechanical behavior and the damage form, 22 static push-off tests were conducted with consideration of different bolt dimensions, the reserved hole constraint condition, and the dimension of slab holes. A finite element (FE) model was established and verified by using test results, and then the model was utilized to investigate the influence of concrete strength, bolt dimension, yield strength, bolt pretension, as well as length-to-diameter ratio of high strength bolts on the performances of shear connectors. On the basis of FE simulation and test results, new design formulas for the calculation of shear resistance behavior were proposed, and comparisons were made with current standards, including AISC, EN 1994-1-1, GB 50017-2017, and relevant references, to check the calculation efficiency. It is confirmed that the proposed equation is in better agreement with the experimental results.
Bending Experiment and Mechanical Properties Analysis of Composite Sandwich Laminated Box Beams
Authors: Zhu Xiujie , Xiong Chao , Yin Junhui , Yin Dejun , Deng Huiyong
Published: September 2019

The failure modes, ultimate load, stiffness performance, and their influencing factors of a composite sandwich laminated box beam under three-point bending load are studied by an experiment, finite element model, and analytical method. The three-point bending experiment was carried out on three different core composite sandwich laminated box beams, and the failure modes and bearing capacity were studied. With the use of composite progressive damage analysis and the core elastoplastic constitutive model, the finite element model of the composite sandwich laminated box beam was established, and the three-point bending failure process and failure modes were analyzed. The analytical model was established based on the Timoshenko beam theory. The overall bending stiffness and shear stiffness of the composite sandwich laminated box beam were calculated by the internal force–displacement relationship. The results show that the composite sandwich laminated box beam mainly suffers from local crushing failure, and the errors between the finite element simulation and the experiment result were within 7%. The analytical model of the composite sandwich laminated box beam can approximately predict the overall stiffness parameters, while the maximum error between theoretic results and experimental values was 5.2%. For composite aluminum honeycomb sandwich laminated box beams with a ratio of span to height less than 10, the additional deflection caused by shear deformation has an error of more than 25%. With the ratio of circumferential layers to longitudinal layers increasing, the three-point bending ultimate load of the composite sandwich laminated box beam increases, but the ratio of the overall stiffness to mass reduces. The use of low-density aluminum foam and smaller-wall-thickness cell aluminum honeycombs allows for the more obvious benefits of light weight.
Exploring the Contribution of Two Phosphorus-Based Groups to Polymer Flammability via Pyrolysis–Combustion Flow Calorimetry
Authors: Sonnier Rodolphe , Otazaghine Belkacem , Vagner Christelle , Bier Frédéric , Six Jean-Luc , Durand Alain , Vahabi Henri
Published: September 2019

From a set of around 100 phosphorus-containing polymers tested in pyrolysis–combustion flow calorimetry, the contributions to flammability of two phosphorus-containing pendant groups (called 9,10-dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO) and PO3) were calculated using an advanced method previously proposed and validated. The flammability properties include total heat release (THR) and heat release capacity (HRC) measured in standard conditions, i.e., anaerobic pyrolysis and complete combustion. The calculated contributions are in good agreement with the main modes of action of both phosphorus groups, i.e., flame inhibition for DOPO and char promotion for PO3. Moreover, the results provide first conclusions about the cooperative interaction between phosphorus and nitrogen, as well as the influence of the architecture of tested co-polymers.
Synthesis of Vertically Oriented Graphene Sheets or Carbon Nanowalls—Review and Challenges
Authors: Vesel Alenka , Zaplotnik Rok , Primc Gregor , Mozetič Miran
Published: September 2019

The paper presents a review on the current methods for deposition of vertically oriented multilayer graphene sheets (often called carbon nanowalls—CNWs) on solid substrates. Thin films of CNWs are among the most promising materials for future applications in capacitors, batteries, electrochemical devices, and photovoltaics, but their application is currently limited by slow deposition rates and difficulties in providing materials of a desired structure and morphology. The review paper analyzes results obtained by various groups and draws correlations between the reported experimental conditions and obtained results. Challenges in this scientific field are presented and technological problems stressed. The key scientific challenge is providing the growth rate as well as morphological and structural properties of CNWs thin films versus plasma parameters, in particular versus the fluxes of reactive plasma species onto the substrate surface. The technological challenge is upgrading of deposition techniques to large surfaces and fast deposition rates, and development of a system for deposition of CNWs in the continuous mode.
Molecular Basis of Cancer Pain Management: An Updated Review
Authors: V. Subramaniam Ayappa , Salem Yehya Ashwaq Hamid , Oon Chern Ein
Published: September 2019

Pain can have a significantly negative impact on the quality of life of patients. Therefore, patients may resort to analgesics to relieve the pain. The struggle to manage pain in cancer patients effectively and safely has long been an issue in medicine. Analgesics are the mainstay treatment for pain management as they act through various methods on the peripheral and central pain pathways. However, the variability in the patient genotypes may influence a drug response and adverse drug effects that follow through. This review summarizes the observed effects of analgesics on UDP-glucuronosyl (UGT) 2B7 isoenzyme, cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2D6, μ-opioid receptor μ 1 (OPRM1), efflux transporter P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and ATP-binding cassette B1 ABCB1/multiple drug resistance 1 (MDR1) polymorphisms on the mechanism of action of these drugs in managing pain in cancer. Furthermore, this review article also discusses the responses and adverse effects caused by analgesic drugs in cancer pain management, due to the inter-individual variability in their genomes.
Polyvinylamine Membranes Containing Graphene-Based Nanofillers for Carbon Capture Applications
Authors: Casadei Riccardo , Venturi Davide , Giacinti Baschetti Marco , Giorgini Loris , Maccaferri Emanuele , Ligi Simone
Published: September 2019

In the present study, the separation performance of new self-standing polyvinylamine (PVAm) membranes loaded with few-layer graphene (G) and graphene oxide (GO) was evaluated, in view of their use in carbon capture applications. PVAm, provided by BASF as commercial product named LupaminTM, was purified obtaining PVAm films with two degrees of purification: Low Grade (PVAm-LG) and High Grade (PVAm-HG). These two-grade purified PVAm were loaded with 3 wt% of graphene and graphene oxide to improve mechanical stability: indeed, pristine tested materials proved to be brittle when dry, while highly susceptible to swelling in humid conditions. Purification performances were assessed through FTIR-ATR spectroscopy, DSC and TGA analysis, which were carried out to characterize the pristine polymer and its nanocomposites. In addition, the membranes′ fracture surfaces were observed through SEM analysis to evaluate the degree of dispersion. Water sorption and gas permeation tests were performed at 35 °C at different relative humidity (RH), ranging from 50% to 95%. Overall, composite membranes showed improved mechanical stability at high humidity, and higher glass transition temperature (Tg) with respect to neat PVAm. Ideal CO2/N2 selectivity up to 80 was measured, paired with a CO2 permeability of 70 Barrer. The membranes’ increased mechanical stability against swelling, even at high RH, without the need of any crosslinking, represents an interesting result in view of possible further development of new types of facilitated transport composite membranes.
Correction: Ma, X. et al. Conducting Polymeric Nanocomposites with a Three-Dimensional Co-flow Microfluidics Platform. Micromachines, 2019, 10, 383
Authors: Ma Xiaodong , Zhang Yuezhou , Weisensee Korbinian
Published: September 2019

The authors would like to indicate the following financial support they received to the Funding Section of their published paper [...]
Properties of Inorganic Polymers Produced from Brick Waste and Metallurgical Slag
Authors: Soultana Athanasia , Valouma Aikaterini , Bartzas Georgios , Komnitsas Konstantinos
Published: September 2019

This paper explores the alkali activation potential of brick wastes and metallurgical slags. Inorganic polymers (IPs) were produced using an alkaline medium consisting of sodium hydroxide and sodium silicate solutions and the optimum synthesis conditions were determined. In this context, the variable parameters, such as solid to liquid (S/L) ratio, curing temperature (60, 80 and 90 °C) and ageing time (7 and 28 days) on the compressive strength and the morphology of the produced IPs were investigated. Specimens produced under the optimum synthesis conditions were subjected to high temperature firing and immersed in distilled water and acidic solutions for various periods of time, in order to assess their durability and structural integrity. The results showed that the IPs produced using a mix ratio of 50 wt % metallurgical slag and 50 wt % brick wastes, cured at 90 °C and aged for 7 days obtained the highest compressive strength (48.9 MPa). X-ray fluorescence analysis (XRF), particle size analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), mineralogical analysis (XRD), mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis also confirmed the optimum microstructural characteristics and the chemical reactions that took place during synthesis. The overall results of this study indicate that the co-valorization of different waste streams, which are produced in large quantities and cause environmental problems if not properly managed, is a viable alternative for the production of binders or secondary construction materials with higher added value.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Erinacine C on NO Production Through Down-Regulation of NF-κB and Activation of Nrf2-Mediated HO-1 in BV2 Microglial Cells Treated with LPS
Authors: Wang Li-Yu , Huang Chin-Shiu , Chen Yu-Hsuan , Chen Chin-Chu , Chen Chien-Chih , Chuang Cheng-Hung
Published: September 2019

Previous studies have revealed the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of Hericium erinaceus extracts, including the fact that the active ingredient erinacine C (EC) can induce the synthesis of nerve growth factor. However, there is limited research on the use and mechanisms of action of EC in treating neuroinflammation. Hence, in this study, the inflammatory responses of human BV2 microglial cells induced by LPS were used to establish a model to assess the anti-neuroinflammatory efficacy of EC and to clarify its possible mechanisms of action. The results showed that EC was able to reduce the levels of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) proteins produced by LPS-induced BV2 cells, in addition to inhibiting the expression of NF-κB and phosphorylation of IκBα (p-IκBα) proteins. Moreover, EC was found to inhibit the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1) protein, and to enhance the nuclear transcription factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf2) and the expression of the heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) protein. Taken together, these data suggest that the mechanism of action of EC involves the inhibition of IκB, p-IκBα, and iNOS expressions and the activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 pathway.
Metabolic Variations of Flavonoids in Leaves of T. media and T. mairei Obtained by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS
Authors: Wang Tao , Zhang Fengjiao , Zhuang Weibing , Shu Xiaochun , Wang Zhong
Published: September 2019

The needles of Taxus species contain a large number of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids. In the present study, the total flavonoid content in leaves of Taxus media and Taxus mairei was 19.953 and 14.464 mg/g, respectively. A total of 197 flavonoid metabolites (70 flavones, 42 flavonols, 26 flavone C-glycosides, 20 flavanones, 15 anthocyanins, 13 isoflavones, 6 flavonolignans, and 5 proanthocyanidins) were identified for the first time by a widely targeted Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray Ionization-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS) method within the two Taxus species, containing 160 common metabolites, with 37 unique metabolites merely determined in T. mairei or T. media. Moreover, 42 differential flavonoid metabolites were screened in the two Taxus species, which showed specific metabolic patterns in isoflavonoid biosynthesis, anthocyanin biosynthesis, and flavone and flavonol biosynthesis pathways. Compared to T. mairei, a more activated phenylpropanoid pathway was found in T. media, which could be responsible for the higher content of total flavonoids in T. media. Our results provide new insights into the diversity of flavonoid metabolites between T. mairei and T. media, and provide a theoretical basis for the sufficient utilization of Taxus species and the development of novel drugs.
The Thioredoxin System is Regulated by the ASK-1/JNK/p38/Survivin Pathway During Germ Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Al-Kandari Nora , Fadel Fatemah , Al-Saleh Farah , Khashab Farah , Al-Maghrebi May
Published: September 2019

The aim is to explore the mechanism of the apoptosis signal-regulating kinase-1 (ASK-1) signaling pathway and the involvement of the thioredoxin (Trx) system during testicular ischemia reperfusion injury (tIRI) by using ASK-1 specific inhibitor, NQDI-1. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 36, 250–300 g) were equally divided into 3 groups: sham, tIRI, and tIRI + NQDI-1 (10 mg/kg, i.p, pre-reperfusion). For tIRI induction, the testicular cord and artery were occluded for 1 h followed by 4 h of reperfusion. Histological analyses, protein immunoexpression, biochemical assays, and real-time PCR were used to evaluate spermatogenesis, ASK-1/Trx axis expression, enzyme activities, and relative mRNA expression, respectively. During tIRI, ipsilateral testes underwent oxidative stress indicated by low levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Glutathione (GSH), increased oxidative damage to lipids and DNA, and spermatogenic damage. This was associated with induced mRNA expression of pro-apoptosis genes, downregulation of antiapoptosis genes, increased caspase 3 activity and activation of the ASK-1/JNK/p38/survivin apoptosis pathway. In parallel, the expression of Trx, Trx reductase were significantly reduced, while the expression of Trx interacting protein (TXNIP) and the NADP+/ nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) ratio were increased. These modulations were attenuated by NQDI-1 treatment. In conclusion, the Trx system is regulated by the ASK-1/Trx/TXNIP axis to maintain cellular redox homeostasis and is linked to tIRI-induced germ cell apoptosis via the ASK-1/JNK/p38/survivin apoptosis pathway.
Highly Bendable and Durable Waterproof Paper for Ultra-High Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Ren Fang , Guo Han , Guo Zheng-Zheng , Jin Yan-Ling , Duan Hong-Ji , Ren Peng-Gang , Yan Ding-Xiang
Published: September 2019

An efficient electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding paper with excellent water repellency and mechanical flexibility has been developed, by assembling silver nanowires (AgNWs) and hydrophobic inorganic ceramic on the cellulose paper, via a facile dip-coating preparation. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations confirmed that AgNWs were interconnected and densely coated on both sides of the cellulose fiber, which endows the as-prepared paper with high conductivity (33.69 S/cm in-plane direction) at a low AgNW area density of 0.13 mg/cm2. Owing to multiple reflections and scattering between the two outer highly conductive surfaces, the obtained composite presented a high EMI shielding effectiveness (EMI SE) of up to 46 dB against the X band, and ultrahigh specific EMI SE of 271.2 dB mm–1. Moreover, the prepared hydrophobic AgNW/cellulose (H-AgNW/cellulose) composite paper could also maintain high EMI SE and extraordinary waterproofness (water contact angle > 140°) by suffering dozens of bending tests or one thousand peeling tests. Overall, such a multifunctional paper might have practical applications in packaging conductive components and can be used as EMI shielding elements in advanced application areas, even under harsh conditions.
Photo-Oxidative and Soil Burial Degradation of Irrigation Tubes Based on Biodegradable Polymer Blends
Authors: Rapisarda Marco , La Mantia Francesco Paolo , Ceraulo Manuela , Mistretta Maria Chiara , Giuffrè Carmelo , Pellegrino Roberto , Valenti Graziella , Rizzarelli Paola
Published: September 2019

Irrigation tubes based on biodegradable polymers were prepared via an extrusion-drawing process by Irritec and compared to conventional pipes made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE). A commercial polylactide/poly (butyleneadipate-co-butyleneterephthalate) (PLA/PBAT) blend (Bio-Flex®) and Mater-Bi® were used. The polymers were characterized from rheological and mechanical points of view. Irrigation pipes were subjected to photoaging with continued exposure to UV radiation up to 22 days. The degradability in the soil of irrigation tube samples was studied. The influence of temperature and UV irradiation on soil burial degradation was investigated. A soil burial degradation test was carried out at 30 °C and 50 °C for up to 70 days. The degree of degradation was evaluated from the weight loss percentage. The degradation rate of irrigation tube samples based on Mater-Bi® was higher at 30 °C and was stimulated after 14 days of UV irradiation. Higher temperatures or UV aging encouraged the disintegration in soil of Bio-Flex®-based irrigation tubes. Furthermore, tube samples, before and after UV and soil burial degradation, were analyzed by Attenuated Total Reflection-Fourier Transform Infra-Red (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy.
Everett’s Multiverse and the World as Wavefunction
Authors: Paul Tappenden
Published: September 2019

Everett suggested that there’s no such thing as wavefunction collapse. He hypothesized that for an idealized spin measurement the apparatus evolves into a superposition on the pointer basis of two apparatuses, each displaying one of the two outcomes which are standardly thought of as alternatives. As a result, the observer ‘splits’ into two observers, each perceiving a different outcome. There have been problems. Why the pointer basis? Decoherence is generally accepted by Everettian theorists to be the key to the right answer there. Also, in what sense is probability involved, when all possible outcomes occur? Everett’s response to that problem was inadequate. A first attempt to find a different route to probability was introduce by Neil Graham in 1973 and the path from there has led to two distinct models of branching. I describe how the ideas have evolved and their relation to the concepts of uncertainty and objective probability. Then I describe the further problem of wavefunction monism, emphasized by Maudlin, and make a suggestion as to how it might be resolved.
Taking Children’s Moral Lives Seriously: Creativity as Ethical Response Offline and Online
Authors: Ott Kate
Published: September 2019

Core Christian ethics concepts are affected by assumptions related to the primary subject or moral agent and the social context in which moral encounters take place. This article asks: Are children full moral agents? If so, what can Christian ethics, which predominantly focuses on adult subjects, learn from a focus on children? A small group of Christian ethicists has asked this very question in conversation with psychologists, child development theorists, educators, theologians, and philosophers. Centering children requires attention to age and ability differences and inclusion of their voices. Children as ethical subjects focus attention on issues of particularity, a decentering of rational individualism, and debunking linear moral developmental assumptions. The research on children’s moral lives points toward ethics as creativity in forms of play or improvisation. Given children’s digitally saturated lives, their creative use of critical digital literacies also helps Christian ethics begin to map a response to the impact of digital technologies.
Hourly PM2.5 Estimates from a Geostationary Satellite Based on an Ensemble Learning Algorithm and Their Spatiotemporal Patterns over Central East China
Authors: Liu Jianjun , Weng Fuzhong , Li Zhanqing , Cribb Maureen C.
Published: September 2019

Satellite-derived aerosol optical depths (AODs) have been widely used to estimate surface fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations over areas that do not have PM2.5 monitoring sites. To date, most studies have focused on estimating daily PM2.5 concentrations using polar-orbiting satellite data (e.g., from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer), which are inadequate for understanding the evolution of PM2.5 distributions. This study estimates hourly PM2.5 concentrations from Himawari AOD and meteorological parameters using an ensemble learning model. We analyzed the spatial agglomeration patterns of the estimated PM2.5 concentrations over central East China. The estimated PM2.5 concentrations agree well with ground-based data with an overall cross-validated coefficient of determination of 0.86 and a root-mean-square error of 17.3 μg m−3. Satellite-estimated PM2.5 concentrations over central East China display a north-to-south decreasing gradient with the highest concentration in winter and the lowest concentration in summer. Diurnally, concentrations are higher in the morning and lower in the afternoon. PM2.5 concentrations exhibit a significant spatial agglomeration effect in central East China. The errors in AOD do not necessarily affect the retrieval accuracy of PM2.5 proportionally, especially if the error is systematic. High-frequency spatiotemporal PM2.5 variations can improve our understanding of the formation and transportation processes of regional pollution episodes.
Fusion of Various Band Selection Methods for Hyperspectral Imagery
Authors: Wang Yulei , Wang Lin , Xie Hongye , Chang Chein-I
Published: September 2019

This paper presents an approach to band selection fusion (BSF) which fuses bands produced by a set of different band selection (BS) methods for a given number of bands to be selected, nBS. Since each BS method has its own merit in finding the desired bands, various BS methods produce different band subsets with the same nBS. In order to take advantage of these different band subsets, the proposed BSF is performed by first finding the union of all band subsets produced by a set of BS methods as a joint band subset (JBS). Due to the fact that a band selected by one BS method in JBS may be also selected by other BS methods, in this case each band in JBS is prioritized by the frequency of the band appearing in the band subsets to be fused. Such frequency is then used to calculate the priority probability of this particular band in the JBS. Because the JBS is obtained by taking the union of all band subsets, the number of bands in the JBS is at least equal to or greater than nBS. So, there may be more than nBS bands, in which case, BSF uses the frequency-calculated priority probabilities to select nBS bands from JBS. Two versions of BSF, called progressive BSF and simultaneous BSF, are developed for this purpose. Of particular interest is that BSF can prioritize bands without band de-correlation, which has been a major issue in many BS methods using band prioritization as a criterion to select bands.
Family Farms, Agricultural Productivity, and the Terrain of Food (In)security in Ethiopia
Authors: Stellmacher Till , Kelboro Girma
Published: September 2019

Despite economic development and social improvements, millions of family farmers in Ethiopia are still struggling with food insecurity. Lack of technology adoption by family farmers is often considered as the root cause for low agricultural productivity and persistence of food insecurity. Based on a study of family farms in southwestern Ethiopia, we show the complex nexus between family farming, food insecurity, and agricultural productivity. We collected qualitative and quantitative data through 300 sample household interviews; expert interviews with elders and village chairmen, agricultural extension agents, farmers’ cooperative heads, as well as experts in NGOs, research institutes, and state agencies; and on-farm observations with in-depth interviews and discussions with individual farmers. Our findings illustrate that everyday experiences, culture, knowledge, and priorities of farmers coupled with ecological and political factors play crucial roles—and need more consideration than the classic ‘lack of technology’ theorem.
Cross-Sector Collaboration in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs): A Critical Analysis of an Urban Sustainability Development Program
Authors: Mehling Sebastian , Kolleck Nina
Published: September 2019

In the last years, a shift in the promotion of sustainable development in Higher Education from a focus on universities’ core areas of teaching and research to “whole institution approaches” with an emphasis on the operational management of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) can be observed in different countries. With the aim to foster sustainability, HEIs have increasingly built cross-sectoral networks, involving not only academics but also practitioners in order to relate sustainability not only to research but also to outreach activities. Although there is an increasing body of literature evaluating such initiatives according to supposedly objective management criteria and indicators, there is still a lack of studies that investigate how the social meaning of knowledge production is (re-)negotiated in and through these partnerships. In this article, we analyze how individuals engaged in a cross-sector partnership make sense of the organizational dilemmas and ambiguities that stem from the complexity of working together across sectors in pursuit of an integrative approach to knowledge production. With the term “sector” we refer to the professional affiliations of the individuals involved in the partnerships, e.g., higher education, administration, formal education or non-governmental organizations. We focus on an illustrative cross-sectoral partnership: The Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (ISU), a collaborative project between Malmö University and Malmö’s city administration to facilitate research and planning collaborations between both organizations in respect to furthering sustainable urban (re-)development and higher education in Malmö, Sweden. By employing a constant comparative approach based on Grounded Theory to analyze data collected with focus groups, semi-structured qualitative interviews and document analysis, we claim that rather than entering a partnership with predefined identities, values and sectoral or professional preferences, individuals engage in a narrative struggle about the organizational character of their partnership. Accordingly, an important avenue for investigating cross-sector partnerships is to explore the constructive dilemma of different organizing principles in a cross-sector partnership, and the way people negotiate the boundaries between them. For the cross-sector partnership studied the constructive dilemma for those engaging in it was to separate and link project, organizational and network organizing principles in their work. Implementing whole institutions approaches in order to promote sustainable development in and through HEIs, would accordingly profit much from a deeper analytical investigation of the process of navigating professional identities and organizational narrative(s) in boundary-spanning, cross-sector partnerships.
Interactions between People and Breadfruit in Hawai’i: Consumption, Preparation, and Sourcing Patterns
Authors: Needham Amber , Lincoln Noa
Published: September 2019

Traditional crops are often forwarded as a critical means for increasing local food, yet little is understood about their consumption patterns in contemporary food systems. This study utilizes a survey to examine the consumption patterns, preparation methods, sources utilized, and awareness of health benefits of breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) in Hawai’i. Results indicated that an average of 13.7 servings of breadfruit per year are eaten by an individual; however, the distribution of consumption follows an exponential curve and 57% of participants only eat it three times per year or less. Approximately one-quarter (22%) of a breadfruit is eaten in one sitting on average, which equates to approximately 71 dry grams. Awareness of health benefits correlated to increased consumption, as did knowledge or preparation methods. While a range of sources were utilized, 71% of people source their fruit from a backyard tree, while only 5% ever obtained fruit from a retail store. Such information is useful in determining the consumptive impacts of intervention programs, such as tree giveaways and consumer education, and to understand how to best facilitate the increased consumption of underutilized crops.
Introducing ERP Concepts to IT Students Using an Experiential Learning Approach with an Emphasis on Reflection
Authors: Beranič Tina , Heričko Marjan
Published: September 2019

The introduction of enterprise resource planning (ERP) concepts to IT students entails many challenges. Due to the system’s complexity, newcomers need an extensive amount of time to be able to use it independently. Additionally, the learning preferences and characteristics of digital natives differ significantly from previous generations. Therefore, the use of alternative learning approaches is desirable. To achieve the best possible learning outcomes, it is advisable to implement learning approaches that require students’ active participation, for example, an experiential learning approach. A variation is an ERPsim business simulation game, which we used within the ERP systems course. The game is implemented in sequential rounds, whereby each round ends with a review of the collected experiences. The simulation game was used at the beginning of the course to ease the introduction of ERP concepts for IT-related students. This paper is the result of three years of research into the perceived usability of SAP ERP introduced with the business simulation game, combined with the results of a study evaluating students’ opinions, knowledge, and skills. Perceived usability was measured using a System Usability Scale (SUS), while the students’ experiences were gathered using a self-evaluation questionnaire. The study revealed the positive impact of the experiential learning approach that was used. Students evaluated the usability of SAP ERP as OK, and empirical analysis confirmed that the use of the simulation game for introducing the ERP concepts resulted in anticipated knowledge and skills, while increasing the students’ intent for future engagement.
Ecotourism in China, Misuse or Genuine Development? An Analysis Based on Map Browser Results
Authors: Li Yanpeng , Zhang Lixiang , Gao Ying , Huang Zhipang , Cui Liangwei , Liu Shuoran , Fang Yihao , Ren Guopeng , Fornacca Davide , Xiao Wen
Published: September 2019

Ecotourism is considered to be an effective means of promoting nature conservation and sustainable development in less developed regions. However, its widespread adoption may be the result of a misunderstanding due to confusion about definitions and interpretations. Using web map browsers, we assessed the distribution pattern of ecotourism sites in both number and density in the 31 provinces of mainland China, and found that it positively correlated with gross domestic products (GDP) and population size, showing spatial dynamics similar to the general tourism model. However, negative-weak or no correlation at all was found with the presence and size of nature variables such as protected areas. These results support previous suspicions that the term ecotourism and its associated concept may be misused in China and that the regions that could benefit the most from this form of tourism have yet to properly develop it. Although this pattern could reflect a huge demand for genuine ecotourism, we recommend that China, to achieve its ambitious sustainable development goals, adapt ecotourism policies in its environmental and socio-cultural context, manage them with a trans-disciplinary expert board, and regulate its market by introducing a rigorous admittance system with continuous monitoring and evaluation.
Improving the Sustainability of Dairy Slurry by A Commercial Additive Treatment
Authors: Borgonovo Federica , Conti Cecilia , Lovarelli Daniela , Ferrante Valentina , Guarino Marcella
Published: September 2019

Ammonia (NH3), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from livestock farms contribute to negative environmental impacts such as acidification and climate change. A significant part of these emissions is produced from the decomposition of slurry in livestock facilities, during storage and treatment phases. This research aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of the additive “SOP LAGOON” (made of agricultural gypsum processed with proprietary technology) on (i) NH3 and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, (ii) slurry properties and N loss. Moreover, the Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method was applied to assess the potential environmental impact associated with stored slurry treated with the additive. Six barrels were filled with 65 L of cattle slurry, of which three were used as a control while the additive was used in the other three. The results indicated that the use of the additive led to a reduction of total nitrogen, nitrates, and GHG emissions. LCA confirmed the higher environmental sustainability of the scenario with the additive for some environmental impact categories among which climate change. In conclusion, the additive has beneficial effects on both emissions and the environment, and the nitrogen present in the treated slurry could partially displace a mineral fertilizer, which can be considered an environmental credit.
Sustainable Technology Innovation Path Recognition: An Evaluation of Patent Risk of International Trade
Authors: Zhang Ben , Ma Lei , Liu Zheng , Wang Ping
Published: September 2019

Patent protection is a critical aspect of sustainable technology innovation, which is currently facing the challenge of patent risk. This study aimed to help enterprises prevent and avoid patent risk in a global view of technology innovation, and to propose a systematic evaluation model for patent risk. By combining the entropy method with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP), this study constructed an analytic hierarchy model of patent risk. Some indexes in the model were selected based on the summary of prior literature, and other indexes were selected according to experts’ communication, which helped us to generalize the patent risk as comprehensively as possible. The AHP evaluation results determined the weight and relative materiality for each risk factor, which were contained in a criteria layer and a sub-criteria layer. The entropy method integrated the evaluation weights of different experts’ opinions. By dividing the risk factors into three categories, namely “high”, “medium”, or “low”, according to the priority degree, the risk priority ranking was obtained. Suggestions are discussed regarding support for enterprises in dealing with patent risk that may occur during international trade or other commercial activities.
Analysis of Spatial and Temporal Characteristics of Citizens’ Mobility Based on E-Bike GPS Trajectory Data in Tengzhou City, China
Authors: Li Yixiao , Dai Zhaoxin , Zhu Lining , Liu Xiaoli
Published: September 2019

Environmentally friendly shared transit systems have become ubiquitous at present. As a result, analyzing the ranges and tracts of human activities and gatherings based on bike share data is scientifically useful. This paper investigates the spatial and temporal travel characteristics of citizens based on real-time-extracted electric bikes (e-bikes) Global Positioning System (GPS) data from May to July in 2018 in the central area of Tengzhou City, Shandong Province, China. The research is conducive for the exploration of citizens’ changes in mobility behaviors, for the analysis of relationships between mobility changes and environmental or other possible factors, and for advancing policy proposals. The main conclusions of the study are as follows. First, in general, citizens’ travelling is featured by rides that are less than 10 min, shorter than 5 km, and with a speed between 5 km/h and 20 km/h. Second, in terms of temporal characteristics, monthly e-bike usage and citizens’ mobility are positively correlated with temperature in May and negatively correlated with temperature in July; an overall negative correlation is also manifested between the e-bike usage (mobility) and air quality index; daily usage reaches a trough on Tuesday and a peak on Friday, indicating the extent of mobility on respective days; e-bike usage and human outdoor behaviors are significantly lowered in rainy weather than in sunny weather; hourly rides reach a peak at 18:00 (more human activities) and a trough at 2:00 (less activities), and average hourly riding speed maximizes at 5:00 and minimizes around 8:00 and 17:00. Third, for spatial characteristics, destinations (D points) during morning rush hour and regions where e-bikes are densely employed are concentrated mainly in mid-north and middle parts of the central area (major human gatherings), and the rides have a diffusing pattern; e-bike origin–destination (O–D) trajectories radiate mostly towards the mid-north and the east during evening rush hour. In addition, 9.4% of the total trips to work areas during morning rush hour represent spillover commuting, indicating that separations between jobs and residential are not severe in the central area of Tengzhou City and commuting is relatively convenient.