bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From spiritualism to a new paradigm in tourism: spiritual tourism and motivations.
Authors: Güzel Ö. , Sarİyİldİz A.
Published: August 2019

This chapter offers an analysis of spiritual tourism and its motivations. It argues that as a result of today's stressful city life, materialism and overexposure to constantly evolving technological developments, the vast majority of today's individuals have begun to drown in negative feelings such as alienation, loneliness, stress and spiritual emptiness. This has led them to be more interested in the concept of spiritualism than ever before and as a spiritual tourist, who is different from normal tourists, to search for self-fulfilment, personal healing and enlightenment.
Spiritual motivation for religious tourism destinations.
Authors: Idris J.
Published: August 2019

This chapter examines the concept of sacred sites, what makes them important to travellers and why travellers make such difficult journeys to religious destinations. It explores the literature on the challenges that have arisen in a consumer society where religious tourism is on the increase as well as the expectations that come with it. The chapter concludes by looking at the infrastructure that has to be constructed in order to meet the demands of religious tourists, the challenges of managing a mass influx of religious pilgrims, as well as the preparation that goes behind organizing and managing large-scale religious events.
Motivations to visit sacred historical objects: the Lindisfarne Gospels' visit to Durham 2013 - a sacred journey?
Authors: Dowson R.
Published: August 2019

This chapter analyses the impacts of 'eventization' on the 3-month release of the Lindisfarne Gospels from the British Library to Durham Cathedral for an exhibition in the summer of 2013, compared to those of a promotion of the Lindisfarne Gospels in 2003 and of the Magna Carta in 2015. This chapter further reflects on the experiences and motivations for visiting sacred objects of historical importance, from the perspectives of those who make such visits possible, as well as their visitors.
Walking the way of St James: spiritual journeys to the cathedrals of sport.
Authors: Wright R. K.
Published: August 2019

This chapter examines the emergence of secular pilgrimages by the serious leisure-inspired English football pilgrim. The chapter focuses on the connections of pilgrimage to topophilia and nostalgia-driven heritage sport tourism. An evocative autoethnographic vignette is presented, inspired by the author's private recollections of his first pilgrimages to the old Wembley Stadium (demolished and replaced at the start of the century) and to a small local West Country football stadium called St James Park.
Nursery set-up.
Authors: Laksono N. D. , Setiawati U. , Nur F. , Rahmaningsih M. , Anwar Y. , Rusfiandi H. , Forster B. P. , Sembiring E. H. , Subbarao A. S. , Zahara H.
Published: August 2019

All work activities in the nursery need preparation and this begins with setting up the nursery. In this chapter, we discuss how to select a good site for the nursery with respect to critical features (topography, soil supply, water supply, drainage, protection), which nursery type is best, land preparation, construction and preparations to begin nursery activities. In addition, 'offsite' facilities needed to support nursery work are listed, such as an incinerator, soil source and go-down/storage.
Main nursery activities.
Authors: Laksono N. D. , Setiawati U. , Nur F. , Rahmaningsih M. , Anwar Y. , Rusfiandi H. , Forster B. P. , Sembiring E. H. , Subbarao A. S. , Zahara H.
Published: August 2019

Two to three months after palm establishment in the pre-nursery (Chapter 4), the palms are potted-on into large planting bags in the main nursery. At this stage the seedlings (or ramets) need to be moved and given more space as they begin to shade each other out in the close-packed planting bag system of the pre-nursery (or rametry). The smaller planting bags also inhibit growth and development. Transplanting into large bags with a fresh soil medium and spacing is the first activity in the main nursery. Prior to potting-on in the main nursery, off-type seedlings and ramets are culled, thus only strong, uniform, healthy palms are advanced. Methods of transport to the main nursery, potting-on and spacing are described along with general husbandry of seedlings and ramets until they are ready for field planting.
Fertiliser programmes.
Authors: Laksono N. D. , Setiawati U. , Nur F. , Rahmaningsih M. , Anwar Y. , Rusfiandi H. , Forster B. P. , Sembiring E. H. , Subbarao A. S. , Zahara H.
Published: August 2019

Fertiliser application is a major activity in the nursery. The materials and types of fertiliser for nursery palm plants vary. Fertiliser recommendations can be different among oil palm nurseries in different companies due to varying management practices and soil types used. It is recommended to seek the opinion and recommendations of an agronomist when setting up a nursery and when problems arise. Detailed recommendations of fertiliser applications in oil palm nurseries have been described and altered over time (see Rankine and Fairhurst, 1998; Duckett, 1999; Turner and Gillbanks, 2003; Mathews et al., 2010; Tan, 2011). The correct fertiliser type and dose are important not only for maximising plant health, but also to minimise costs as fertilisers are an expensive nursery input. Fertiliser application aims to fulfil the nutrient requirements of young plants. Best agronomy practices will help reduce fertiliser wastage by evaporation, leaching, overdose, etc. This chapter describes guidelines and methods in fertiliser application.
Weeding.
Authors: Laksono N. D. , Setiawati U. , Nur F. , Rahmaningsih M. , Anwar Y. , Rusfiandi H. , Forster B. P. , Sembiring E. H. , Subbarao A. S. , Zahara H.
Published: August 2019

Various weed species are common in the main nursery and include grasses and sedges as well as broad-leafed plants. The main nursery is susceptible to weeds, especially wind-dispersed species, as there are open spaces between the bags. Weeds are managed using mechanical and chemical methods. It is important to keep the bags free from weeds, as these will compete for moisture, nutrients and sunlight. Weeding also provides hygienic conditions in the nursery that help avoid pest or disease problems. Weeding is carried out within the bags and in the inter-row spaces. Weeding is included in standard nursery management activities. This chapter describes guidelines and methods for weeding.
Pests and diseases.
Authors: Laksono N. D. , Setiawati U. , Nur F. , Rahmaningsih M. , Anwar Y. , Rusfiandi H. , Forster B. P. , Sembiring E. H. , Subbarao A. S. , Zahara H.
Published: August 2019

Pests and diseases should be avoided as they have the potential to cause high economic losses in oil palm nurseries. It is therefore important to recognise pests and diseases as soon as possible and take action. Routine and regular nursery inspections by experienced staff are essential. This chapter describes the current major pests and diseases in the oil palm nursery and their management.
Diversity, food, nutrition and medicinal importance of some selected less-known African indigenous tropical plant species: advocacy for global research attention.
Authors: Baiyeri P. K. , Ugese F. D. , Nwobodo C. E.
Published: August 2019

Many plant species of tropical African origin have substantial socio-economic and cultural importance among the rural populace. A good number of these species exhibit long-term ethno-medicinal relevance to the African people. Besides, they have major food and nutritional values that have guaranteed some levels of food and nutritional security. Species considered in this review have shown considerable diversity in many traits including those that are economically significant. Prospects for selection for genetic improvement therefore exist with profound implications on household and rural economies. In this review, the following tropical plant species were discussed: African breadfruit (
Treculia africana
Decne), African Walnut (
Plukenetia conophora
Muell Arg.), Tamarind (
Tamarindus indica
L), baobab (
Adansonia digitata
L), shea butter tree (
Vitellaria paradoxa
C. F. Gaertn.), bitter leaf (
Vernonia amygdalina
L.) and 'Utazi' (
Gongronema latifolium
). Certain facts have emerged from the review that tend to fault the neglect of these species by the international research community and thus, makes a call for research attention compelling. Relevant current literature studies especially those published by sub-Saharan African scientists in areas of interest were reviewed. Also consulted were research outputs from elsewhere in related fields including pharmacy and veterinary medicine. These indigenous species therefore merit more serious research attention due to their food, nutritional, health and economic significance to concerned African populations who continue to exploit them for these purposes. Besides their value for biodiversity conservation they, unlike the exotic species, have no problems with adaptation to the environment and familiarity with the local inhabitants.
Hand washing - its role in preventing water, foodborne and healthcare-associated diseases.
Authors: Doughari J. H.
Published: August 2019

The rise in indices of infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance is a cause for concern and calls for multiple approaches for control to be considered. The most exposed parts of the body, such as hands, skin, head and the face are a leading source of these pathogens. Hands in particular are in frequent contact with contaminated surfaces of both animate and inanimate objects. Diseases transmitted by contaminated hands are both airborne (such as influenza, adenovirus, hand-foot-mouth disease and tuberculosis) waterborne via droplets or dust (such as hepatitis A, cholera, diarrhoea etc.) and foodborne (such as foodborne illnesses, shigellosis and aspergillosis). Causative agents of such diseases include
Escherichia coli
,
Salmonella typhi
, hepatitis A virus, norovirus,
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
among others. Human and animal faces, handrails, table-tops and toys are some of the sources of these pathogens. An effective preventive strategy is the thorough washing of hands using soaps and detergents or alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
The role of APC-mediated actin assembly in microtubule capture and focal adhesion turnover
Authors: Juanes M. Angeles , Isnardon Daniel , Badache Ali , Brasselet Sophie , Mavrakis Manos , Goode Bruce L.
Published: August 2019

Focal adhesion (FA) turnover depends on microtubules and actin. Microtubule ends are captured at FAs, where they induce rapid FA disassembly. However, actin’s roles are less clear. Here, we use polarization-resolved microscopy, FRAP, live cell imaging, and a mutant of Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC-m4) defective in actin nucleation to investigate the role of actin assembly in FA turnover. We show that APC-mediated actin assembly is critical for maintaining normal F-actin levels, organization, and dynamics at FAs, along with organization of FA components. In WT cells, microtubules are captured repeatedly at FAs as they mature, but once a FA reaches peak maturity, the next microtubule capture event leads to delivery of an autophagosome, triggering FA disassembly. In APC-m4 cells, microtubule capture frequency and duration are altered, and there are long delays between autophagosome delivery and FA disassembly. Thus, APC-mediated actin assembly is required for normal feedback between microtubules and FAs, and maintaining FAs in a state “primed” for microtubule-induced turnover.
Transient IR spectroscopy as a tool for studying photocatalytic materials
Authors: Paz Yaron
Published: August 2019

Over the years, a considerable amount of attention has been given to the thermodynamics of photocatalysts, i.e. to the location of their valence and conduction bands on the energy scale. The kinetics of the photoinduced charge carriers at short times (i.e. prior to their surface redox reactions) is no less important. While significant work on the transient electronic spectra of photocatalysts has been performed, the transient vibrational spectra of this class of materials was hardly studied. This manuscript aims to increase the scientific awareness to the potential of transient IR spectroscopy (TRIR) as a complementary tool for understanding the first, crucial, steps of photocatalytic processes in solid photocatalysts.

This was done herein first by describing the various techniques currently in use for measuring transient IR signals of photo-excited systems and discussing their pros and cons. Then, a variety of examples is given, representing different types of photocatalysts such as oxides (TiO2, NaTaO3, BiOCl, BiVO4), photosensitized oxides (dye-sensitized TiO2), organic polymers (graphitic carbon nitride) and organo-metalic photocatalysts (rhenium bipyridyl complexes). These examples span from materials with no IR fingerprint signals (TiO2) to materials having a distinct spectrum showing well-defined, localized, relatively narrow, vibrational bands (carbon nitride). In choosing the given-above examples, care was made to represent the several pump & probe techniques that are applied when studying transient IR spectroscopy, namely dispersive, transient 2D-IR spectroscopy and step-scan IR spectroscopy. It is hoped that this short review will contribute to expanding the use of TRIR as a viable and important technique among the arsenal of tools struggling to solve the mysteries behind photocatalysis.
Towards continuous-to-continuous 3D imaging in the real world
Authors: Caucci L , Liu Z , Jha A K , Han H , Furenlid L R , Barrett H H
Published: August 2019

Imaging systems are often modeled as continuous-to-discrete mappings that map the object (i.e. a function of continuous variables such as space, time, energy, wavelength, etc) to a finite set of measurements. When it comes to reconstruction, some discretized version of the object is almost always assumed, leading to a discrete-to-discrete representation of the imaging system. In this paper, we discuss a method for single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging that avoids discrete representations of the object or the imaging system, thus allowing reconstruction on an arbitrarily fine set of points.
A numerical analysis of a microwave induced coaxial surface wave discharge fed with a mixture of oxygen and hexamethyldisiloxane for the purpose of deposition
Authors: Kemaneci Efe , Mitschker Felix , Benedikt Jan , Eremin Denis , Awakowicz Peter , Brinkmann Ralf Peter
Published: August 2019

A microwave induced coaxial surface wave discharge with a feeding gas mixture of oxygen and hexamethyldisiloxane used for the deposition of polymer coatings is numerically analysed by a volume-averaged zero-dimensional modelling formalism. A set of edge-to-centre ratios are analytically estimated for a self-consistent description of the positive ion and reactive neutral flux at the radial walls (Kemaneci et al 2017 J. Phys. D: Appl. Phys.
50 245203). The simulation results are compared with the measurements of a wide variety of distinct particle concentrations as well as of the electron temperature and an agreement is obtained with respect to the input power, the pressure and the oxygen to hexamethyldisiloxane flow ratios. The net charge density is dominated by Si2OC5H

15

+

with a negligible degree of electronegativity. Hexamethyldisiloxane is fragmented into methyl radical via the electron impact dissociation and the dissociative ionization. Large amounts of hydrocarbons, water, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide and hydrogen molecules are produced. A significant portion of the net hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide production rates is formed by the emission from the solid surfaces due to the hydrogen and oxygen atom flux. The essential roles of C3H9SiO molecules and Si2OC5H

15

+

ions on the deposition process are verified.
Discrete time symmetry breaking in quantum circuits: exact solutions and tunneling
Authors: Sun Feng-Xiao , He Qiongyi , Gong Qihuang , Teh Run Yan , Reid Margaret D , Drummond Peter D
Published: August 2019

We discuss general properties of discrete time quantum symmetry breaking in degenerate parametric oscillators. Recent experiments in superconducting quantum circuit with Josephson junction nonlinearities give rise to new properties of strong parametric coupling and nonlinearities. Exact analytic solutions are obtained for the steady-state of this single-mode case of subharmonic generation. We also obtain analytic solutions for the tunneling time over which the time symmetry-breaking is lost above threshold. We find that additional anharmonic terms found in the superconducting case increase the tunneling rate, and can also lead to new regimes of tristability as well as bistability. Our analytic results are confirmed by number state calculations.
Dark state, zero-index and topology in phononic metamaterials with negative mass and negative coupling
Authors: Zhang Danmei , Ren Jie , Zhou Tianxiong , Li Baowen
Published: August 2019

Phononic metamaterials have attracted extensive attention since they are flexibly adjustable to control the transmission. Here we study a one-dimensional phononic metamaterial with negative mass and negative coupling, made of resonant oscillators and chiral couplings. At the frequency where the effective mass and coupling are both infinite, a flat band emerges that induces a sharply high density of states, reminiscent of the phononic dark states. At the critical point of band degeneracy, a phononic Dirac-like point emerges where both the effective mass and the inverse of effective coupling are simultaneously zero, so that zero-index is realized for phonons. Moreover, the phononic topological phase transition is observed when the phononic band gap switches between single mass-negative and single coupling-negative regimes. When these two distinct single negative phononic metamaterials are connected to each other, a phononic topological interface state is identified within the gap, manifested as the phononic counterpart of the topological Jackiw–Rebbi solution.
Two-dimensional quantum droplets in dipolar Bose gases
Authors: Boudjemâa Abdelâali
Published: August 2019

We calculate analytically the quantum and thermal fluctuations corrections of a dilute quasi-two-dimensional Bose-condensed dipolar gas. We show that these fluctuations may change their character from repulsion to attraction in the density-temperature plane owing to the striking momentum dependence of the dipole–dipole interactions. The dipolar instability is halted by such unconventional beyond mean field corrections leading to the formation of a droplet phase. The equilibrium features and coherence properties exhibited by such droplets are deeply discussed. At finite temperature, we find that the equilibrium density crucially depends on the temperature and on the confinement strength and thus, a stable droplet can exist only at ultralow temperature due to the strong thermal fluctuations.
Ultrafast dynamics in the vicinity of quantum light-induced conical intersections
Authors: Csehi András , Kowalewski Markus , Halász Gábor J , Vibók Ágnes
Published: August 2019

Nonadiabatic effects appear due to avoided crossings or conical intersections (CIs) that are either intrinsic properties in field-free space or induced by a classical laser field in a molecule. It was demonstrated that avoided crossings in diatomics can also be created in an optical cavity. Here, the quantized radiation field mixes the nuclear and electronic degrees of freedom creating hybrid field-matter states called polaritons. In the present theoretical study we go further and create CIs in diatomics by means of a radiation field in the framework of cavity quantum electrodynamics. By treating all degrees of freedom, that is the rotational, vibrational, electronic and photonic degrees of freedom on an equal footing we can control the nonadiabatic quantum light-induced dynamics by means of CIs. First, the pronounced difference between the the quantum light-induced avoided crossing and the CI with respect to the nonadiabatic dynamics of the molecule is demonstrated. Second, we discuss the similarities and differences between the classical and the quantum field description of the light for the studied scenario.
Second-order interference of two independent photons with different spectra*
Authors: Zhou Yu , Liu Jian-Bin , Zheng Huai-Bin , Chen Hui , Li Fu-Li , Xu Zhuo
Published: August 2019

The second-order interference of two independent photons with different spectra in a Shih–Alley/Hong–Ou–Mandel interferometer is studied in Feynman’s path integral theory. There is a second-order interference pattern for photons with different spectra if the photons are indistinguishable for the employed detection system. The conditions to observe the second-order temporal beating with photons of different spectra are analyzed. The influence of the response time of the detection system on the observed second-order interference pattern is also discussed. It is a direct result of that measurement in quantum mechanics is dependent on the employed measuring apparatus. The results are helpful to understand the physics of two-photon interference in different schemes.
High-pressure electrides: From design to synthesis
Authors: Wan Biao , Zhang Jingwu , Wu Lailei , Gou Huiyang
Published: August 2019

Electrides are unique ionic compounds that electrons serve as the anions. Many electrides with fascinating physical and chemical properties have been discovered at ambient condition. Under pressure, electrides are also revealed to be ubiquitous crystal morphology, enriching the geometrical topologies and electronic properties of electrides. In this Review, we overview the formation mechanism of high-pressure electrides (HPEs) and outline a scheme for exploring new HPEs from pre-design, CALYPSO assisted structural searches, indicators for electrides, to experimental synthesis. Moreover, the evolution of electronic dimensionality under compression is also discussed to better understand the dimensional distribution of anionic electrons in HPEs.
Enhanced spin-dependent thermopower in a double-quantum-dot sandwiched between two-dimensional electron gases*
Authors: Chi Feng , Fu Zhen-Guo , Liu Liming , Zhang Ping
Published: August 2019

We study the spin-dependent thermopower in a double-quantum-dot (DQD) embedded between the left and right two-dimensional electron gases (2DEGs) in doped quantum wells under an in-plane magnetic field. When the separation between the DQD is smaller than the Fermi wavelength in the 2DEGs, the asymmetry in the dots’ energy levels leads to pronounced quantum interference effects characterized by the Dicke line-shape of the conductance, which are sensitive to the properties of the 2DEGs. The magnitude of the thermopower, which denotes the generated voltage in response to an infinitesimal temperature difference between the two 2DEGs under vanishing charge current, will be obviously enhanced by the Dicke effect. The application of the in-plane magnetic field results in the polarization of the spin-up and spin-down conductances and thermopowers, and enables an efficient spin-filter device in addition to a tunable pure spin thermopower in the absence of its charge counterpart.
Structural and electronic properties of transition-metal chalcogenides Mo5S4 nanowires*
Authors: Qiu Ming-Shuai , Guo Huai-Hong , Zhang Ye , Dong Bao-Juan , Ali Sajjad , Yang Teng
Published: August 2019

Transition-metal chalcogenide nanowires (TMCN) as a viable candidate for nanoscale applications have been attracting much attention for the last few decades. Starting from the rigid building block of M
6 octahedra (M = transition metal), depending on the way of connection between M
6 and decoration by chalcogenide atoms, multiple types of extended TMCN nanowires can be constructed based on some basic rules of backbone construction proposed here. Note that the well-known Chevrel-phase based

M

6

X

6

and

M

6

X

9

(X = chalcogenide atom) nanowires, which are among our proposed structures, have been successfully synthesized by experiment and well studied. More interestingly, based on the construction principles, we predict three new structural phases (the cap, edge, and C&E phases) of Mo5S4, one of which (the edge phase) has been obtained by top-down electron beam lithography on two-dimensional MoS2, and the C&E phase is yet to be synthesized but appears more stable than the edge phase. The stability of the new phases of Mo5S4 is further substantiated by crystal orbital overlapping population (COOP), phonon dispersion relation, and thermodynamic calculation. The barrier of the structural transition between different phases of Mo5S4 shows that it is very likely to realize an conversion from the experimentally achieved structure to the most stable C&E phase. The calculated electronic structure shows an interesting band nesting between valence and conduction bands of the C&E Mo5S4 phase, suggesting that such a nanowire structure can be well suitable for optoelectronic sensor applications.
Lithographically defined synthesis of transition metal dichalcogenides
Authors: Kemelbay Aidar , Kuntubek Aldiyar , Chang Nicholas , Chen Christopher T , Kastl Christoph , Inglezakis Vassilis J , Tikhonov Alexander , Schwartzberg Adam M , Aloni Shaul , Kuykendall Tevye R
Published: August 2019

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) promise to revolutionize optoelectronic applications. While monolayer exfoliation and vapor phase growth produce extremely high quality 2D materials, direct fabrication at wafer scale remains a significant challenge. Here, we present a method that we call ‘lateral conversion’, which enables the synthesis of patterned TMD structures, with control over the thickness down to a few layers, at lithographically predefined locations. In this method, chemical conversion of a metal-oxide film to TMD layers proceeds by diffusion of precursor propagating laterally between silica layers, resulting in structures where delicate chalcogenide films are protected from contamination or oxidation. Lithographically patterned WS2 structures were synthesized by lateral conversion and analyzed in detail by hyperspectral Raman imaging, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The rate of conversion was investigated as a function of time, temperature, and thickness of the converted film. In addition, the process was extended to grow patterned MoS2, WSe2, MoSe2 structures, and to demonstrate unique WS2/SiO2 multilayer structures. We believe this method will be applicable to a variety of additional chalcogenide materials, and enable their incorporation into novel architectures and devices.
Pd3Te2: an s-wave superconductor with Pd atom coordinated by five Te atoms
Authors: Chen X , Guo J G , Gong C S , Deng J , Ying T P , Cheng E J , Li S Y , Chen X L
Published: August 2019

We have identified a new superconductor Pd3Te2 based on pure phase samples. Electrical resistivity, magnetic susceptibility and specific heat measurements confirm that Pd3Te2 is a bulk superconductor at 2.2 K. The value of Ginzburg–Landau parameter is larger than 1/√2, suggesting type-II superconductivity. Meanwhile, the analysis of specific heat indicates that Pd3Te2 is a fully-gapped superconductor with electron-phonon coupling constant λ
e-p = 0.58, which features a BCS weakly coupling case. According to our theoretical calculations, the superconductivity is related to the states of hybridization of Pd d states and Te p states at the Fermi level. Our results reveal that superconductivity can occur in five coordinated palladium tellurides.
Threats to a Colorado river provisioning basin under coupled future climate and societal scenarios
Authors: Bennett Katrina E , Tidwell Vincent C , Llewellyn Dagmar , Behery Susan , Barrett Lucas , Stansbury Melanie , Middleton Richard S
Published: August 2019

Clean, reliable supplies of water are critical to the sustainability and resilience of communities, including water needed for energy and food production, industry, drinking water, and other human and ecological needs. However, water infrastructure and management in the United States are largely optimized for historic conditions—designed and operated to respond to social needs, and past mean and extreme streamflow, which may no longer apply in the future. Temperature, precipitation, ecosystem dynamics, energy and food production, and social systems are all experiencing changes, which cumulatively affect the security of water supply. Here, we examine the impact of these changes in a provisioning basin in the arid Southwest, the San Juan River, which supplies water, food, and energy to the Colorado River and the Rio Grande. Our analysis applies a multi-model framework to examine future climate and water use scenarios. Results demonstrate that the San Juan River basin could experience significant disruptions to water deliveries (−12% to −48% for the drier models) and shortages that exceed manageable thresholds (53% to 73% of water in shorted years), potentially affecting both the local basin as well as other regions that receive water and energy from the San Juan. While water stress metrics vary across the scenarios, results indicate the need for government, industry, and communities to consider options for adapting to water supply shifts. These results raise important questions regarding the resilience of water resources in basins across the West under future scenarios and implications for energy, food, and other water supply needs.
Truly remote fiber optic sensor networks
Authors: de Miguel Soto Verónica , López-Amo Manuel
Published: August 2019

An overview of truly remote fiber optic sensors is presented in this work. It starts with a brief introduction of fiber optic sensor networks, showing their advantages and multiple applications. Then, the definition of truly remote networks is provided, and their main challenges discussed, such as increasing the sensing distance and the number of sensors interrogated. Several multiplexing techniques have been compared, such as wavelength, time and coherence division multiplexing. In relation to this, the most recent works showing multi wavelength fiber lasers for wavelength division multiplexing have been grouped and their versatility analyzed. Finally, recent and relevant truly remote fiber optic networks have been gathered and some of the most representative schemes explained in detail, comparing their multiplexing capability and the remoteness of the monitored sensors. Random distributed feedback fiber lasers form part of a number of these schemes, proving the suitability of this type of lasers for their use in ultra-long truly remote sensing applications.
Low oxygen partial pressure increases grain boundary ion conductivity in Gd-doped ceria thin films
Authors: Nenning Andreas , Opitz Alexander
Published: August 2019

Grain boundaries play an important role in the transport properties of oxide ion conducting electrolytes and mixed ionic electronic conductors. Nevertheless, very little is known about the electrical grain boundary properties in thin films. In these, the separation of in-plane grain and grain boundary conductivity is more complicated due to the large capacitive effect of the insulating substrate. This can be overcome by using interdigitating electrodes with separation of few micrometres. By comparing grain and grain boundary conductivities of Gd-doped Ceria (GDC) thin films with 5 and 10 mol % Gd content, we can show that the much lower conductivity of 5% doped GDC is almost exclusively caused by a significantly higher grain boundary resistance. In reducing atmosphere, GDC becomes mixed ion and electron conducting and in such conditions, the employed Pt thin film electrodes are virtually blocking for oxygen anions and reversible for electrons. With impedance spectroscopy we can therefore simultaneously measure ionic and electronic conductivities under reducing conditions. Although the bulk vacancy concentration remains dominated by the extrinsic acceptor doping, the ionic conductivity of the films increases by up to one order of magnitude when going from oxidising to reducing atmosphere. This result is—although in such a clear manner not observed or predicted before—in line with the widely accepted grain boundary space charge model. It is concluded that an accumulation of Ce3+ in the space charge zone weakens the oxygen vacancy depletion and therefore increases the grain boundary conductivity. The results are of high relevance for understanding and optimising the properties of GDC in anodes and electrolytes for solid oxide fuel cells, and potential new uses such as electrostrictive and memristive devices, for which oxygen partial pressure dependent ionic conductivity is an important new aspect.
A cross-sectional study assessing agreement between self-reported and general practice-recorded health conditions among community dwelling older adults
Authors: Hale Matthew D , Santorelli Gillian , Brundle Caroline , Clegg Andrew
Published: August 2019

Background

self-reported data regarding health conditions are utilised in both clinical practice and research, but their agreement with general practice records is variable. The extent of this variability is poorly studied amongst older adults, particularly amongst those with multiple health conditions, cognitive impairment or frailty. This study investigates the agreement between self-reported and general practice-recorded data amongst such patients and the impact of participant factors on this agreement.

Methods

data on health conditions was collected from participants in the Community Ageing Research 75+ (CARE75+) study (n = 964) by self-report during face-to-face assessment and interrogation of the participants’ general practice electronic health records. Agreement between self-report and practice records was assessed using Kappa statistics and the effect of participant demographics using logistic regression.

Results

agreement ranged from K = 0.25 to 1.00. The presence of ≥2 health conditions modified agreement for cancer (odds ratio, OR:0.62, 95%confidence interval, CI:0.42–0.94), diabetes (OR:0.55, 95%CI:0.38–0.80), dementia (OR:2.82, 95%CI:1.31–6.13) and visual impairment (OR:3.85, 95%CI:1.71–8.62). Frailty reduced agreement for cerebrovascular disease (OR:0.45, 95%CI:0.23–0.89), heart failure (OR:0.40, 95%CI:0.19–0.84) and rheumatoid arthritis (OR:0.41, 95%CI:0.23–0.75). Cognitive impairment reduced agreement for dementia (OR:0.36, 95%CI:0.21–0.62), diabetes (OR:0.47, 95%CI:0.33–0.67), heart failure (OR:0.53, 95%CI:0.35–0.80), visual impairment (OR:0.42, 95%CI:0.25–0.69) and rheumatoid arthritis (OR:0.53, 95%CI:0.37–0.76).

Conclusions

significant variability exists for agreement between self-reported and general practice-recorded comorbidities. This is further affected by an individual’s health conditions. This study is the first to assess frailty as a factor modifying agreement and highlights the importance of utilising the general practice records as the gold standard for data collection from older adults.
Health Locus of Control and Neuropsychological Performance in Latinx and Non-Latinx White Persons Living with HIV (PLWH)
Authors: Aghvinian M , Morris E , Summers A , Crook C , Gonzalez J , Byrd D , Rivera Mindt M
Published: August 2019

Objective

Health locus of control (HLOC) refers to health attributions related to one’s actions, chance, doctors, or powerful others and impacts health service utilization. Locus of control (LOC) relates to better neurocognitive (NC) function in healthy adults, medication adherence, and quality of life in persons living with HIV (PLWH). No studies have examined HLOC and NC function in PLWH. This study examined how HLOC contributes to NC function in PLWH.

Participants and Method

This cross-sectional study included 130 PLWH (Latinx: n = 95; non-Latinx White [NLW]: n = 35) who completed an NC battery and Multidimensional Health Locus of Control Scale Form C (MHLS-C). MHLS-C has 4 subscales (internal, chance, doctors, and powerful others; 1 = Strongly Disagree – 6 = Strongly Agree). Demographically corrected NC T-scores were used for average global NC and domain T-scores.

Results

The Latinx group did worse than the NLW group in global NC, learning, memory, and verbal function (ps < .05). In the Latinx group, MHLS-C Chance negatively related to global NC, learning, memory, and fluency (ps < .05); Powerful Others was negatively related to global NC, learning, and memory (ps < .05). In the NLW group, MHLS-C Chance negatively related to learning and memory (ps < .05). In hierarchical regressions, our model (Step 1: ethnicity and Step 2: MHLC Chance and Powerful Others subscales) predicted global NC (R^2 = .10), learning (R^2 = .30), and memory (R^2=.27; all ps < .05), such that ethnicity was not significant (all ps > .05). Additionally, greater MHLS-C Chance predicted worse NC function (β’s = -.22 to -.40, ps < .05).

Conclusions

Chance HLOC is related to worse NC function in Latinx and NLW groups, but more strongly in the Latinx group. Ethnicity no longer predicted NC function once chance HLOC was considered. These findings align with prior research in the Latinx population about “fatalismo,” a belief that life events are predestined, and highlight the importance of health professionals addressing perceptions of control over one’s health to improve outcomes, including NC functioning.
Current Practices in Cross-Cultural Neuropsychology: A Survey of Providers' Use of Appropriate Normative Data and Views on a Web-based Approach to the Collection and Dissemination of Normative Data for Spanish-speaking Populations
Authors: Arias J , Mendoza R , Levine A , Mojena S , Wilsey A
Published: August 2019

Objective

As the U.S. Spanish-speaking population grows, neuropsychologists provide assessment services to an increasingly diverse group of individuals. In response to the need for a centralized resource, NeuroShare, a no-cost website that collects and organizes cross-cultural neuropsychological normative data was created. The purpose of this study was to gather information on the current practices of cross-cultural neuropsychology, the utility of NeuroShare, and potential improvements that could be made to the platform.

Participants and Method

An anonymous survey was distributed to neuropsychologists and trainees through national and regional professional listservs. Participants’ demographics, clinical experience, and current practices (e.g. use of language specific normative data, assessment of acculturation/bilingualism) when providing neuropsychological services to Spanish-speaking populations were collected. The survey examined feedback on the NeuroShare database.

Results

60 participants completed the survey, and they were primarily White/ Caucasian (62%), along with Hispanic/ Latino (36%), Black/African American (1%), and biracial/multiracial (1%). About 66% reported that they often search for Spanish language normative data depending on the patient’s demographics. 70% of respondents reported administering tests developed primarily for English-speaking populations, that are then adapted, when testing Spanish-speaking individuals. Some recommendations for improving Neuroshare included the incorporation of pediatric normative data and a normative data calculator tool.

Conclusions

This study highlights the needs and benefits of a comprehensive, easy to use system in collecting and organizing normative information for diverse populations. NeuroShare serves as a tool to facilitate the practice of cross-cultural neuropsychology, as well as a catalyst to improve neuropsychological services through the provision of improved access to appropriate normative measures for use with diverse populations.
Accuracy of the Test of Memory Malingering in First Generation Spanish-Speaking Latinos
Authors: Campos K , Castillo L , Soble J R
Published: August 2019

Objective

The Test of Memory Malingering (TOMM) is among the most widely used performance validity tests (PVTs) in neuropsychology. Despite abundant support documenting its sensitivity and specificity in the detection of invalid performance, most research has occurred among English-speaking, North-American samples. Studies conducted with Spanish-speaking samples in Latin America found associations between education and TOMM performance, though more mixed results in the United States with Hispanic/Latino samples have emerged due to the challenges that bilingualism, acculturation, and heterogeneity of the population pose to an already challenging area of measurement. Due to the pivotal role that PVTs play in clinical diagnoses and legal cases, it is critical that studies begin to broaden their scope and examine their variables cross-culturally. This study investigated the effects of age, education, and cognitive impairment on TOMM Trial 2 performance in a first-generation, monolingual Spanish speaking, Latino sample.

Participants and Method

The sample consisted of 26 first-generation Latino adults, 14 women and 12 men, Mean age = 57.11 (SD = 11.99); Mean education = 7.69 years (SD = 4.14), who underwent outpatient neuropsychological evaluation that included administration of the TOMM. 4 with invalid performances were excluded. Of the remaining 26, 9 were cognitively intact and 17 met criteria for a neurocognitive disorder.

Results

A combined linear regression analysis showed that age, education, and cognitive impairment status did not account for a significant portion of the variance in TOMM Trial 2 scores (R2 = 1.70; p = .283). Similarly, analysis of variance (ANOVA) found no significant differences between impaired (M = 46.68; SD = 5.78) and unimpaired (M = 46.50; SD = 6.09) patients (p = .942).

Conclusions

Results suggested that age, level of education, or cognitive impairment do not have a significant effect on TOMM Trial 2 performance in a sample of first-generation Latinos.
Assessment of Verbal and Visuospatial Performance Predicting Cognitive Impairment in a Monolingual, Spanish-Speaking Sample
Authors: Castillo L , Campos K , Soble J R
Published: August 2019

Objective

The Batería Neuropsicológica en Español (BNE) – Digit Span (DS) and Spatial Span (SS) subtests are popular instruments used to measure the capacity of verbal and visuospatial attention/working memory. Although deficits in working memory performance have been found in cases of mild cognitive impairment and dementia in analogous versions of these tasks among English speakers, very few studies have assessed the ability of verbal and visuospatial span tasks to identify impairment within a mono-lingual Spanish-speaking population. This study investigated the clinical utility of the BNE verbal and visuospatial span tasks for discriminating those with and without cognitive impairment in a Spanish-speaking Hispanic population.

Participants and Method

Participants were 46 monolingual, Spanish-speaking Hispanics, 28 women (60.9%) and 18 (39.1%) men (M age = 63.41 (SD = 14.54); M education = 8.41 (SD = 4.39), referred for neuropsychological evaluations, which included the BNE-DS/SS. Three patients with invalid performances were excluded. Of the remaining 46, 17 were cognitively intact following evaluation, whereas 29 met criteria for a neurocognitive disorder.

Results

Logistic regression analysis revealed that although DS backward model was significant, both DS forward age/education-corrected T- scores (p = .878) and DS backward (p = .67), were not significant predictors of cognitive impairment. In contrast, both SS forward (p = .002) and backward (p = .022) were significant predictors of impairment status with respective classification accuracies of 63% and 76.1%.

Conclusions

Findings suggest better performance on visuospatial working memory (SS) is associated with generally intact cognitive abilities and decreased odds of cognitive impairment in a sample of monolingual Spanish-Speaking Hispanics; whereas verbal working memory (DS) findings were less robust.
Reliability and Validity of the Spanish Language Measures of the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery
Authors: Fox R , Hook J , Marquine M J , Manly J , Correia B , Slotkin J , Weintraub S , Gershon R
Published: August 2019

Objective

The NIH Toolbox for Assessment of Neurological and Behavioral Function (NIHTB) was developed under contract from the National Institutes of Health to create a set of easy-to-administer neuropsychological measures, for use across the lifespan (ages 3-85). The NIHTB Cognition Battery (NIHTB-CB) includes two language measures that were developed, calibrated, and normed separately in English and Spanish. This analysis presents the test-retest reliability and construct validity of the Spanish-language picture vocabulary test (S-PVT) and oral reading recognition test (S-ORRT) among adults.

Participants and Method

Participants were adults age 18-85 who took part in the NIHTB norming study in Spanish (N = 408, Age: M = 44.1, SD = 16.7; Education: M = 10.7, SD = 4.3; 65.0% female). Of these, 48 repeated the battery 1 week later. Both the S-PVT and the S-ORRT were administered using computer adaptive testing and scored using item response theory. Spearman’s correlations were used to evaluate test-retest reliability. Convergent validity was evaluated by correlating S-PVT scores with scores on the Batería-III Woodcock-Muñoz Vocabulario Sobre Dibujos, and by correlating S-ORRT scores with scores on a 48-item version of the Word Accentuation Test. Adjusted Spearman’s correlations and general linear models related scores to age, education, and sex.

Results

Both the S-PVT (ρ = 0.87, p < .001) and the S-ORRT (ρ = 0.88, p < .001) demonstrated good test-retest reliability. Good convergent validity was found for both the S-PVT (ρ = 0.76, p < .001) and the S-ORRT (ρ = 0.65, p < .001). Scores on the S-PVT were positively related to education (ρ = 0.38, p < .001), and scores on the S-ORRT were negatively related to age (ρ = -0.18, p < .01) and positively related to education (ρ = 0.30, p < .001).

Conclusions

The Spanish language measures of the NIHTB-CB demonstrated acceptable reliability and validity, suggesting they can be used to measure language ability among Spanish-speaking adults in the United States.
Normative Data for Executive Function and Emotion Interaction Assessment in Adolescents from Rural Areas
Authors: Galindo G , Galarza J , García L , Padilla A , Negrete A , López R
Published: August 2019

Objective

The present work is part of the ongoing project of examining the validation and standardization of the Executive Functions and Emotion Assessment for Adolescents with Risk Behaviors (EFEAA) test in the rural areas of Northwest Mexico. The objectives of the present study were (1) to examine the effects of age and risk behavior on emotionally interfered working memory ability, measured as performance on the Emotionally Interfered Working Memory Task (EIWMT) section of the EFEAA in a group of healthy adolescents from rural areas; and (2) to use these results to construct normative data that can be used in clinical practice.

Participants and Method

A total of 275 adolescents, 14.1 years old, geographically distributed among northwest Mexico were included in the sample. They were individually assessed using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Risk Behavior Questionnaire, including: sexual risk behavior, impulsiveness, drug, alcohol, and tobacco consumption, unhealthy food intake, and physical inactivity; for measuring emotion-cognition interaction we used the EIWMT.

Results

Results of this study present a database supported by factors of risk behavior and working memory, which includes: predictors for conduct disorders, drug use, and delinquency, in addition to correlations between the performance of emotionally interfered working memory and risk behaviors associated to health. Percentile and normal distribution tables were generated, demonstrating that there is a high prevalence of risk behavior in rural areas.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates data related to rural areas in northwest Mexico, a region where adolescents are frequently involved in risk behaviors. Additionally, protective factors are understudied in Mexico-US border cities. Further analyses are needed to find reward delay skills on the studied sample as well as urban area comparisons.