bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual Activation Function-Based Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) for Estimating Grapevine Berry Yield and Quality
Authors: Maimaitiyiming Matthew , Sagan Vasit , Sidike Paheding , Kwasniewski Misha T.
Published: March 2019

Reliable assessment of grapevine productivity is a destructive and time-consuming process. In addition, the mixed effects of grapevine water status and scion-rootstock interactions on grapevine productivity are not always linear. Despite the potential opportunity of applying remote sensing and machine learning techniques to predict plant traits, there are still limitations to previously studied techniques for vine productivity due to the complexity of the system not being adequately modeled. During the 2014 and 2015 growing seasons, hyperspectral reflectance spectra were collected using a handheld spectroradiometer in a vineyard designed to investigate the effects of irrigation level (0%, 50%, and 100%) and rootstocks (1103 Paulsen, 3309 Couderc, SO4 and Chambourcin) on vine productivity. To assess vine productivity, it is necessary to measure factors related to fruit ripeness and not just yield, as an over cropped vine may produce high-yield but poor-quality fruit. Therefore, yield, Total Soluble Solids (TSS), Titratable Acidity (TA) and the ratio TSS/TA (maturation index, IMAD) were measured. A total of 20 vegetation indices were calculated from hyperspectral data and used as input for predictive model calibration. Prediction performance of linear/nonlinear multiple regression methods and Weighted Regularized Extreme Learning Machine (WRELM) were compared with our newly developed WRELM-TanhRe. The developed method is based on two activation functions: hyperbolic tangent (Tanh) and rectified linear unit (ReLU). The results revealed that WRELM and WRELM-TanhRe outperformed the widely used multiple regression methods when model performance was tested with an independent validation dataset. WRELM-TanhRe produced the highest prediction accuracy for all the berry yield and quality parameters (R2 of 0.522–0.682 and RMSE of 2–15%), except for TA, which was predicted best with WRELM (R2 of 0.545 and RMSE of 6%). The results demonstrate the value of combining hyperspectral remote sensing and machine learning methods for improving of berry yield and quality prediction.
On-Board Ship Detection in Micro-Nano Satellite Based on Deep Learning and COTS Component
Authors: Yao Yuan , Jiang Zhiguo , Zhang Haopeng , Zhou Yu
Published: March 2019

Micro-nano satellites have provided a large amount of remote sensing images for many earth observation applications. However, the hysteresis of satellite-ground mutual communication of massive remote sensing images and the low efficiency of traditional information processing flow have become the bottlenecks for the further development of micro-nano satellites. To solve this problem, this paper proposes an on-board ship detection scheme based on deep learning and Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) component, which can be used to achieve near real-time on-board processing by micro-nano satellite computing platform. The on-board ship detection algorithm based on deep learning consists of a feature extraction network, Region Proposal Network (RPN) with square anchors, Global Average Pooling (GAP), and Bigger-Left Non-Maximum Suppression (BL-NMS). With the help of high performance COTS components, the proposed scheme can extract target patches and valuable information from remote sensing images quickly and accurately. A ground demonstration and verification system is built to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of our scheme. Our method achieves the performance with 95.9% recall and 80.5% precision in our dataset. Experimental results show that the scheme has a good application prospect in micro-nano satellites with limited power and computing resources.
Detection of Congestive Heart Failure Based on LSTM-Based Deep Network via Short-Term RR Intervals
Authors: Wang Ludi , Zhou Xiaoguang
Published: March 2019

Congestive heart failure (CHF) refers to the inadequate blood filling function of the ventricular pump and it may cause an insufficient heart discharge volume that fails to meet the needs of body metabolism. Heart rate variability (HRV) based on the RR interval is a proven effective predictor of CHF. Short-term HRV has been used widely in many healthcare applications to monitor patients’ health, especially in combination with mobile phones and smart watches. Inspired by the inception module from GoogLeNet, we combined long short-term memory (LSTM) and an Inception module for CHF detection. Five open-source databases were used for training and testing, and three RR segment length types (N = 500, 1000 and 2000) were used for the comparison with other studies. With blindfold validation, the proposed method achieved 99.22%, 98.85% and 98.92% accuracy using the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) CHF, normal sinus rhythm (NSR) and the Fantasia database (FD) databases and 82.51%, 86.68% and 87.55% accuracy using the NSR-RR and CHF-RR databases, with N = 500, 1000 and 2000 length RR interval segments, respectively. Our end-to-end system can help clinicians to detect CHF using short-term assessment of the heartbeat. It can be installed in healthcare applications to monitor the status of human heart.
Quasi-static Analysis Based on an Equivalent Circuit Model for a CMOS Terahertz Plasmon Detector in the Subthreshold Region
Authors: Son Ju-Hee , Yang Jong-Ryul
Published: March 2019

An analytic method for a complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) terahertz plasmon detector operating in the subthreshold region is presented using the equivalent circuit model. With respect to design optimization of the detector, the signal transmission from the antenna port to the output of the detector is described by using the proposed circuit model, which does not include a complicated physical operating principle and mathematical expressions. Characteristics from the antenna port to the input gate node of the detector are analyzed through the superposition method by using the characteristic impedance of transmission lines. The superposition method shows that the effect of interconnection lines at the input is simplified with the optimum bias point. The characteristics of the plasmon detection are expressed by using small-signal analysis of the single transistor at the sub-threshold operation. The results of the small-signal analysis show that the unity gain preamplifier located between the detector core and the main amplifier can improve the detection performances such as the voltage responsivity and the noise equivalent power. The measurement results using the fabricated CMOS plasmon detector at 200 GHz suggest that the unity gain preamplifier improves the detector performances, which are the same results as we received from the proposed analytic method.
LoRaWAN Battery-Free Wireless Sensors Network Designed for Structural Health Monitoring in the Construction Domain
Authors: Loubet Gaël , Takacs Alexandru , Gardner Ethan , De Luca Andrea , Udrea Florin , Dragomirescu Daniela
Published: March 2019

This paper addresses the practical implementation of a wireless sensors network designed to actualize cyber-physical systems that are dedicated to structural health monitoring applications in the construction domain. This network consists of a mesh grid composed of LoRaWAN battery-free wireless sensing nodes that collect physical data and communicating nodes that interface the sensing nodes with the digital world through the Internet. Two prototypes of sensing nodes were manufactured and are powered wirelessly by using a far-field wireless power transmission technique and only one dedicated RF energy source operating in the ISM 868 MHz frequency band. These sensing nodes can simultaneously perform temperature and relative humidity measurements and can transmit the measured data wirelessly over long-range distances by using the LoRa technology and the LoRaWAN protocol. Experimental results for a simplified network confirm that the periodicity of the measurements and data transmission of the sensing nodes can be controlled by the dedicated RF source (embedded in or just controlled by the associated communicating node), by tuning the radiated power density of the RF waves, and without any modification of the software or the hardware implemented in the sensing nodes.
Development of a Novel Enhanced Biosensor System for Real-Time Monitoring of Fish Stress Using a Self-Assembled Monolayer
Authors: Wu Haiyun , Fujii Yuzu , Nakano Toshiki , Arimoto Takafumi , Murata Masataka , Matsumoto Haruto , Yoshiura Yasutoshi , Ohnuki Hitoshi , Endo Hideaki
Published: March 2019

Wireless biosensor systems were developed in our lab for monitoring blood glucose concentrations in fish as an indicator of fish stress. However, uniform immobilization of the enzyme on the surface of the electrode is difficult, so the sensor response is typically reduced at a range of high glucose concentrations during the stress monitoring. In this study, we attempted to enhance sensor response by using a self-assembled monolayer-immobilized enzyme. Glucose oxidase was immobilized on a working electrode modified with a self-assembled monolayer. The proposed biosensor showed a good correlation between the output current and the glucose concentration range of 10–3500 mg dL−1 under an optimized working condition. The dynamic measurement range of this newly developed sensor is significantly improved, especially over a high concentration range, which helps the sensor to achieve better performance in dramatic changes in the stress response of fish. In addition, we used biological samples from test fish and obtained a good correlation coefficient between the sensor output current and the glucose concentration using a conventional method. The proposed wireless biosensor system was also applied to monitor fish stress responses in real time through different stressors and to obtain some precise data that reflect real fish stress responses.
Detection of Volatile Compounds Emitted by Bacteria in Wounds Using Gas Sensors
Authors: Salinas Alvarez Carlos , Sierra-Sosa Daniel , Garcia-Zapirain Begonya , Yoder-Himes Deborah , Elmaghraby Adel
Published: March 2019

In this paper we analyze an experiment for the use of low-cost gas sensors intended to detect bacteria in wounds using a non-intrusive technique. Seven different genera/species of microbes tend to be present in most wound infections. Detection of these bacteria usually requires sample and laboratory testing which is costly, inconvenient and time-consuming. The validation processes for these sensors with nineteen types of microbes (1 Candida, 2 Enterococcus, 6 Staphylococcus, 1 Aeromonas, 1 Micrococcus, 2 E. coli and 6 Pseudomonas) are presented here, in which four sensors were evaluated: TGS-826 used for ammonia and amines, MQ-3 used for alcohol detection, MQ-135 for CO2 and MQ-138 for acetone detection. Validation was undertaken by studying the behavior of the sensors at different distances and gas concentrations. Preliminary results with liquid cultures of 108 CFU/mL and solid cultures of 108 CFU/cm2 of the 6 Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains revealed that the four gas sensors showed a response at a height of 5 mm. The ammonia detection response of the TGS-826 to Pseudomonas showed the highest responses for the experimental samples over the background signals, with a difference between the values of up to 60 units in the solid samples and the most consistent and constant values. This could suggest that this sensor is a good detector of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and the recording made of its values could be indicative of the detection of this species. All the species revealed similar CO2 emission and a high response rate with acetone for Micrococcus, Aeromonas and Staphylococcus.
Evolution of Sci's Community-Driven Post-Publication Peer-Review
Authors: Jacob Claus , Rittman Martyn , Vazquez Franck , Abdin Ahmad Yaman
Published: March 2019

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Improved Small Sample Inference Methods for a Mixed-Effects Model for Repeated Measures Approach in Incomplete Longitudinal Data Analysis
Authors: Ukyo Yoshifumi , Noma Hisashi , Maruo Kazushi , Gosho Masahiko
Published: March 2019

The mixed-effects model for repeated measures (MMRM) approach has been widely applied for longitudinal clinical trials. Many of the standard inference methods of MMRM could possibly lead to the inflation of type I error rates for the tests of treatment effect, when the longitudinal dataset is small and involves missing measurements. We propose two improved inference methods for the MMRM analyses, (1) the Bartlett correction with the adjustment term approximated by bootstrap, and (2) the Monte Carlo test using an estimated null distribution by bootstrap. These methods can be implemented regardless of model complexity and missing patterns via a unified computational framework. Through simulation studies, the proposed methods maintain the type I error rate properly, even for small and incomplete longitudinal clinical trial settings. Applications to a postnatal depression clinical trial are also presented.
Learning from Italian Typology- and Morphology-Led Planning Techniques: A Planning Framework for Yingping, Xiamen
Authors: Xie Shuyi
Published: March 2019

As a vital historic neighborhood with an indeterminate large-scale planning scheme, Yingping, located in the city center of Xiamen, China, is struggling with poor livability and growing incoherent private additions and renovations that largely undermine the local historic urban landscape. Inspired by Italian typology- and morphology-led planning techniques, this study explores the possible interpretations and implications of their applications in Yingping to address its interconnected, heterogeneous, and stratified urban fabric and planning problems. The research is developed through a two-pronged multi-layered planning framework. Firstly, from the maintenance perspective, five intervention approaches are grouped, with a specific focus on the leading structural elements of the urban fabric—the arcade streets. Secondly, from the morphological view and through the ecological lens, six characterized areas are identified and classified with respective morphological features and crucial planning problems being faced. This framework provides a strategic thematization of corresponding optimizing strategies and suitable guidelines to direct future governmental actions and to support the self-maintenance of local inhabitants toward sustainable development. The study also presents the possibility that such techniques are applicable to the Chinese context and is expected to inspire further research and practices in China and beyond.
Taxation of Wealthy Individuals, Inequality Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility
Authors: Chen Kuo-Shing , Lee Chien-Chiang , Tsai Huolien
Published: March 2019

This paper provides new evidence on reducing income (or wealth) disparity. Accurate inequality measures are important to policymakers with a concern for inequality governance and the calibration of tax policy. Our empirical findings show that block trading of securities has no significant impact on volume or amount before and after the 2015 abolition of capital gains taxation in Taiwan. Crucially, the results ultimately demonstrate complete capital gains tax redistribution failure, due to capital flight into overseas investments. Thus, tax policy cannot be the only channel to reduce these inequalities. At the national level, policymakers could build on the conclusions drawn in this paper by developing corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies and adjusting the tax systems for wealthy people so as to achieve policy goals. Our study aims to provide the first quantitative empirical evidence recognizing significant factors among the CSR strategies pursued to strengthen the rules of inequality governance. More precisely, we have also applied both fully modified and dynamic ordinary least squares cointegration tests, as well as conical cointegration regression, to check the robustness of our estimation results.
Can We Really Have It All?—Designing Multifunctionality with Sustainable Urban Drainage System Elements
Authors: Lähde Elisa , Khadka Ambika , Tahvonen Outi , Kokkonen Teemu
Published: March 2019

Multifunctionality is seen as one of the key benefits delivered by sustainable urban drainage systems (SUDS). It has been promoted by both scientific research and practical guidelines. However, interrelations between different benefits are vaguely defined, thus highlighting a lack of knowledge on ways they could be promoted in the actual design process. In this research, multifunctionality has been studied with the help of scenario analysis. Three stormwater scenarios involving different range of SUDS elements have been designed for the case area of Kirstinpuisto in the city of Turku, Finland. Thereafter, the alternative design scenarios have been assessed with four criteria related to multifunctionality (water quantity, water quality, amenity, and biodiversity). The results showed that multifunctionality could be analyzed in the design phase itself, and thus provided knowingly. However, assessing amenity and biodiversity values is more complex and in addition, we still lack proper methods. As the four criteria have mutual interconnections, multifunctionality should be considered during the landscape architectural design, or else we could likely lose some benefits related to multifunctionality. This reinforces emerging understanding that an interdisciplinary approach is needed to combine ecological comprehension together with the system thinking into SUDS design, locating them not as individual elements or as a part of the treatment train, but in connection with wider social ecological framework of urban landscape.
Comprehensive Assessment of Water Footprints and Water Scarcity Pressure for Main Crops in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Fu Mengran , Guo Bin , Wang Weijiao , Wang Juan , Zhao Lihua , Wang Jianlin
Published: March 2019

Rapid economic development has posed pressure on water resources, and the potential for a water crisis has become an important obstacle to the sustainable development of society. Water footprint theory and its applications in agriculture provide an important strategic basis for the rational utilization and sustainable development of water resources. Based on the monthly meteorological observations and agricultural data of Shandong Province, CROPWAT 8.0 and Geographic Information System (GIS) technology, the green, blue and grey water footprints of wheat, maize, cotton and groundnut from 1989 to 2016 were calculated and the spatial variations of water footprints for crops in different rainfall years were analyzed. Additionally, assessment of water stress for agricultural productions was conducted in this study. The results showed that the average water footprints of wheat, maize, cotton and groundnut were 2.02 m3/kg, 1.24 m3/kg, 7.29 m3/kg and 1.75 m3/kg, respectively in Shandong Province. A large amount of the average total water footprint was calculated for wheat (420.59 × 108 m3/yr), maize (222.16 × 108 m3/yr), cotton (72.70 × 108 m3/yr) and groundnut (50.07 × 108 m3/yr). The average total water footprint of the four crops was 765.52 × 108 m3/yr (29.98% blue) and exhibited a gradual decreasing trend over time. Specifically, the total water footprint of wheat was the highest among four main crops in Shandong Province and exhibited a decreasing trend during 1989–2016. The maize was ranked in the second place, and was the only crop still increasing rapidly. The spatial and temporal changes of water footprints for crops were obvious in different rainfall years. Additionally, agricultural productions in most regions were facing the threat of water scarcity. Therefore, the scientific planning of crop planting structures and rational control of sown areas of crops with large water footprints should be implemented in severely water-scarce regions. This study can give some suggestions on the adjustment of planting structure for the sustainable development of agriculture and the realization of efficient utilization of water resources.
Investment Valuation Model of Public Rental Housing PPP Project for Private Sector: A Real Option Perspective
Authors: Shi Jiangang , Duan Kaifeng , Wen Shiping , Zhang Rui
Published: March 2019

Public rental housing (PRH) in China is mainly invested by the government at present. The huge capital demand brings it great pressure and a series of problems appear meanwhile. Public–private partnership (PPP) has been regarded as a way to solve the funding dilemma of PRH. However, the PRH project is not attractive for the private sector since the expected profit seems unsatisfactory based on traditional valuation methods. To improve this situation, this paper proposed an investment valuation model from a real option perspective. For the private sector, three types of options, including deferral option, abandonment option, and expansion option, were identified during the concession period of a PRH PPP project. On this basis, a two-stage binomial tree model was constructed for estimating the investment value. Then, the proposed model was tested in a hypothetical example of a typical PRH PPP project in Chongqing, China. The result shows that great potential value can be excavated through flexible strategies and adaption to uncertainties. This paper provides a deep analysis on the gaps of the real option application in public housing investment assessment, which is meaningful for improving the supply efficiency and financial sustainability of PRH.
Context as a Provider of Key Resources for Succession: A Case Study of Sustainable Family Firms
Authors: Botella-Carrubi M. Dolores , González-Cruz Tomas F.
Published: March 2019

Although succession is the single most important issue in family-owned businesses (FOBs), there is scarce comprehensive and integrative analysis of the context (i.e., the social, organizational, and normative setting) where succession events occur. Research usually focuses on the success or failure of succession processes, instead of the risks faced by FOBs during succession. The succession process takes time and multiple actors are involved. Therefore, succession is influenced by uncertainty and unforeseen events. This study addresses the aforementioned gap in the literature by investigating how context can reduce the risk of failure in succession. Based on organizational change theory and the resource-based view, this study considers family and business circumstances where interactions between actors take place and succession occurs. Since the research goal is deeply embedded in context, this paper presents a comparative case study of three Spanish FOBs that have experienced different kinds of organizational change in relation to management succession. The main conclusion is that risk of succession failure depends not only on detailed process design and planning, but also on a well-developed firm and family context that provides sufficient familiness resources to cope with unexpected events and address conflicts.
Recycled Plastic and Cork Waste for Structural Lightweight Concrete Production
Authors: Parra Carlos , Sánchez Eva M. , Miñano Isabel , Benito Francisco , Hidalgo Pilar
Published: March 2019

The use of waste materials as lightweight aggregates in concrete is highly recommended in seismic risk areas and environmentally recommended. However, reaching the strength needed for the concrete to be used structurally may be challenging. In this study four dosages were assayed: the first two-specimen had high cement content (550 and 700 kg/m3 respectively), Nanosilica, fly ash and superplasticizer. These samples were high performance, reaching a strength of 100 MPa at 90 days. The other two mixtures were identical but replaced 48% of the aggregates with recycled lightweight aggregates (30% polypropylene, 18.5% cork). To estimate its strength and durability the mixtures were subjected to several tests. Compression strength, elasticity modulus, mercury intrusion porosimetry, carbonation, attack by chlorides, and penetration of water under pressure were analyzed. The compression strength and density of the lightweight mixtures were reduced 68% and 19% respectively; nonetheless, both retained valid levels for structural use (over 30 MPa at 90 days). Results, such as the total porosity between 9.83% and 17.75% or the chloride ion penetration between 8.6 and 5.9 mm, suggest that the durability of these concretes, including the lightweight ones, is bound to be very high thanks to a very low porosity and high resistance to chemical attacks.
Predicting Parcel-Scale Redevelopment Using Linear and Logistic Regression—the Berkeley Neighborhood Denver, Colorado Case Study
Authors: Cherry Lisa , Mollendor Darren , Eisenstein Bill , Hogue Terri S. , Peterman Katharyn , McCray John E.
Published: March 2019

Many watershed challenges can be associated with the increased impervious cover that accompanies urban development. This study establishes a methodology of evaluating the spatial and temporal distribution of infill re-development on a parcel scale, using publicly available urban planning data. This was achieved through a combination of linear and logistic regression. First, a “business as usual” linear growth scenario was developed based on available building coverage data. Then, a logistic regression model of historic redevelopment, as a function of various parcel attributes, was used to predict each parcel’s probability of future redevelopment. Finally, the linear growth model forecasts were applied to the parcels with the greatest probability of future redevelopment. Results indicate that building cover change within the study site, from 2004–2014, followed a linear pattern (R2 = 0.98). During this period the total building cover increased by 17%, or 1.7% per year on average. Applying the linear regression model to the 2014 building coverage data resulted in an increase of 820,498 sq. ft. (18.8 acres) in building coverage over a ten-year period, translating to a 14% overall increase in impervious neighborhoods. The parcel and building variables selected for inclusion in the logistic regression model during the model calibration phase were total value, year built, percent difference between current and max building cover, and the current use classifications—rowhome and apartment. The calibrated model was applied to a validation dataset, which predicted redevelopment accuracy at 81%. This method will provide municipalities experiencing infill redevelopment a tool that can be implemented to enhance watershed planning, management, and policy development.
Dynamic Scheduling Based on Predicted Inventory Variation Rate for Public Bicycle System
Authors: Gao Liang , Xu Wei , Duan Yifeng
Published: March 2019

To improve efficiency and reduce the total scheduling cost of the public bicycle system (PBS), dynamic scheduling based on the predicted inventory variation rate (DS-PIVR) is proposed. Regarding a station in the PBS as an inventory system, its inventory variation rate during the scheduling period and its inventory rate at the end of the scheduling period were predicted based on the stationary Markov process condition. A mixed integer programming (MIP) model, whose objective is to minimize the total scheduling distance, was established to describe the dynamic scheduling problem (DSP). Results from Boston and Washington D.C. PBSs show that, when compared to the dynamic scheduling based on the rolling horizon (DS-RH), the DS-PIVR method could at most shorten the routing distance by 62.25% (for Boston) and 74.7% (for Washington D.C.) among all scheduling areas, and could at most shorten the total routing distance for the whole PBS by 21.06% (for Boston) and 17.26% (for Washington D.C.). Moreover, the DS-PIVR method makes the repositioning vehicle journey only once and keeps the inventory rate of each station in balance during the scheduling period. Furthermore, the DS-PIVR method provides a promising reference to improve the operation efficiency by reducing the scheduling cost and the quality of service by satisfying the users’ demand in time during the rush hours for the PBS operators.
Business Models for Sustainable Finance: The Case Study of Social Impact Bonds
Authors: La Torre Mario , Trotta Annarita , Chiappini Helen , Rizzello Alessandro
Published: March 2019

Business models for sustainability (BMfS) are relevant topics on research agendas, given their orientation toward sustainability issues. However, traditional versions of these models are often ill-equipped at solving complex social problems. Cross-sector partnerships for sustainability (CSPfS) have been recognized as a new paradigm that mitigates the failure of traditional models. Impact investing, and social impact bonds (SIBs) in particular, represent an interesting field of research in innovative business models for sustainable finance, even though the literature does not consider SIBs within this broader field. We propose an exploratory study based on qualitative methods aimed at conceptualizing SIBs within the framework of BMfS and understanding how SIB collaboration varies across social sectors and geographical areas. Our study identifies three different models of SIBs characterized by the different degrees of collaboration between actors: (i) SIB as a fully collaborative partnership; (ii) SIB as a low-collaborative partnership; and (iii) SIB as a partially collaborative partnership. Our findings are useful to policy makers and practitioners involved in the SIB design, suggesting that a fully collaborative SIB model may stand a better chance of achieving the expected social impacts.
Estimating the Effects of Economic Agglomeration on Haze Pollution in Yangtze River Delta China Using an Econometric Analysis
Authors: Ma Renfeng , Wang Congcong , Jin Yixia , Zhou Xiaojing
Published: March 2019

Haze pollution, a serious livelihood and environmental issue, has hindered China’s economic development. This paper, based on the improved output density model, empirically analyzes spatial patterns and impact factors of haze pollution within the Yangtze River Delta from 2015 to 2017 by statistical and spatial econometric models. The study shows that: (1) The characteristics of haze pollution due to seasonal changes are obvious in the Yangtze River Delta region, and the situation has gradually improved. (2) The haze pollution has significant local agglomeration characteristics and spatial heterogeneity, demonstrated as significant low-level agglomerations in Hangzhou, Ningbo, and Taizhou, and high agglomerations in Chuzhou, Yangzhou, Zhenjiang, and Taizhou. The polluted area clusters around the provincial boundary, and its level gradually decreases from northwest to southeast. There is a significant spatial positive correlation and spatial spillover effect of intercity haze pollution, which will have a negative impact on the region and surrounding areas. (3) The population growth, research and development (R&D) investment, industrial structure, industrial smoke and dust emissions, and urban construction in the Yangtze River Delta have positive impacts on haze pollution, while factors, such as investment intensity of foreign direct investment (FDI), energy consumption and precipitation, have a negative impact on smog pollution. However, there is no Kuznets curve relationship between smog pollution and economic growth. By optimizing spatial distribution, incorporating production factors, and sharing pollution control infrastructure, this paper shows that economic agglomeration has an inhibitory effect on haze pollution.
Inclusive Financial Development and Multidimensional Poverty Reduction: An Empirical Assessment from Rural China
Authors: Yang Yanlin , Fu Chenyu
Published: March 2019

Inclusive finance is often considered to be a critical element that makes growth inclusive, as access to finance can enable the poor to lift themselves from income poverty. However, can it play such a role when the poor are in multidimensional poverty? Why does financial exclusion and poverty still exist in countries with vigorous development of inclusive finance? We build an evolutionary game model to analyze the equilibrium strategies of inclusive financial institutions and the poor in poverty reduction activities to find the answers. As there is a high incidence of poverty and serious financial exclusion in rural areas of China, we test the poverty reduction effectiveness of inclusive financial development on the poor with different labor capacity in rural China from 2010 to 2016 based on survey data of China Family Panel Studies and relevant statistics collected from 21 provinces. Our study finds there are differences in poverty alleviation effects of inclusive financial development among the poor with different labor capacities; if financial institutions target the service precisely to the working-age population in rural areas, they will achieve the dual goals of maintaining institutional sustainable development and alleviating poverty; And the development of inclusive finance in aspects of permeability, usability, and utility can significantly reduce multidimensional poverty. Therefore, to further improve the multidimensional poverty reduction performance and stimulate the endogenous motivation of the poor, it is necessary to strengthen the support for financial resources served to the working-age population, and to improve the development of rural inclusive finance in aspects of quality and affordability.
An Electrochemical Route for Hot Alkaline Blackening of Steel: A Nitrite Free Approach
Authors: Eckl Maximilian , Zaubitzer Steve , Köntje Carsten , Farkas Attila , Kibler Ludwig A. , Jacob Timo
Published: March 2019

Blackening belongs to the predominant technological processes in preserving steel surfaces from corrosion by generating a protective magnetite overlayer. In place of the commonly used dipping-procedure into nitrite-containing blackening baths at boiling temperatures that are far above 100 °C, here we describe a more environmentally friendly electrochemical route that operates at temperatures, even below 100 °C. After an investigation of the electrochemical behavior of steel samples in alkaline solutions at various temperatures, the customarily required bath temperature of more than 130 °C could be significantly lowered to about 80 °C by applying a DC voltage that leads to an electrode potential of 0.5−0.6 V vs. Pt. Thus, it was possible to eliminate the use of hazardous sodium nitrite economically and in an optimum way. Electrochemical quantification of the corrosion behavior of steel surfaces that were in contact with 0.1 M KCl solution was carried out by linear sweep voltammetry and by Tafel slope analysis. When comparing these data, even the corrosion rates of conventional blackened surfaces are of the same magnitude as a blank steel surface. This proves that magnetite overlayers represent rather poor protective layers in the absence of additional sealing. Moreover, cyclic voltammetry (CV), atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and auger electron spectroscopy (AES) characterized the electrochemically blackened steel surfaces.
Interface Behaviour and Work Function Modification of Self-Assembled Monolayers on Sn-Doped In2O3
Authors: Hubmann Andreas , Dietz Dominik , Brötz Joachim , Klein Andreas
Published: March 2019

The modification of the work function of Sn-doped In2O3 (ITO) by vacuum adsorption of 4-(Dimethylamino)benzoic acid (4-DMABA) has been studied using in situ photoelectron spectroscopy. Adsorption of 4-DMABA is self-limited with an approximate thickness of a single monolayer. The lowest work function obtained is 2.82 ± 0.1 eV, enabling electron injection into many organic materials. In order to identify a potential influence of the ITO substrate surface on the final work function, different ITO surface orientations and treatments have been applied. Despite the expected differences in substrate work function and chemical bonding of 4-DMABA to the substrate, no influence of substrate surface orientation is identified. The resulting work function of ITO/4-DMABA substrates can be described by a constant ionization potential of the adsorbed 4-DMABA of 5.00 ± 0.08 eV, a constant band alignment between ITO and 4-DMABA and a varying Fermi energy in the ITO substrate. This corresponds to the behaviour of a conventional semiconductor heterostructure and deviates from the vacuum level alignment of interfaces between organic compounds. The difference is likely related to a stronger chemical bonding at the ITO/4-DMABA interface compared to the van der Waals bonding at interfaces between organic compounds.
Use of the PVM Method Computed in Vector Space of Increments in Decision Aiding Related to Urban Development
Authors: Kannchen Marek , Ziemba Paweł , Borawski Mariusz
Published: March 2019

The paper presents a possibility to use a new PVM-VSI (Preference Vector Method computed in Vector Space of Increments) method in making decisions that demand that different variants should be considered, while being evaluated with respect to different criteria. Hence, knowledge about them is a must, and that knowledge is not necessarily available quantitatively, whereas the very evaluation should be relatively objective; that is, independent from the decision maker’s preferences or opinions. The paper presents the use of the PVM-VSI method in support decisions related to urban development—to rank projects submitted for implementation within the framework of a citizen budget. The ranking will make it feasible to determine which of the submitted projects will have the dominant influence on the town’s sustainable development, and, subsequently, which ones should be presented to citizens as the better ones out of the projects submitted, and to compare the method mentioned with methods used in similar decision-making problems in the past: Fuzzy AHP (Analytic Hierarchy Process), Fuzzy TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution), and Fuzzy PROMETHEE (Preference Ranking Organization METHod for Enrichment of Evaluation).
Some Results in Weak Pseudo-Quasi-Wajsberg Algebras
Authors: Liu Wenjun , Chen Wenjuan
Published: March 2019

In this paper we continue to investigate weak pseudo-quasi-Wajsberg algebras which are called weak PQW-algebras for short. First, some definitions are recalled and the basic properties of weak PQW-algebras are presented. Next, we define the notions of type-I filters, type-II filters, left weak filters and right weak filters of a weak PQW-algebra and study related properties of them. We also discuss the relation between normal filters and filter congruences on a weak PQW-algebra. Finally, we characterize the relationship between weak PQW-algebras and some bounded residuated quasi-ordered monoids with supplementary conditions.
The Theory of Knowledge Fields: A Thermodynamics Approach
Authors: Bratianu Constantin , Bejinaru Ruxandra
Published: March 2019

The emergence of knowledge economy and knowledge management revealed the need for reconsidering the concept of knowledge in a larger framework than that created by philosophers from ancient times. While the epistemology as a theory of knowledge and justification considers knowledge as a justified true belief, experts in knowledge management consider knowledge as a strategic resource. The new economic interpretation of knowledge as a strategic resource and a key contributor to achieving a competitive advantage generated a search of new metaphors to supply the attributes needed in constructing the new framework of understanding and operating with a working concept of knowledge in management. The most widespread knowledge metaphors are based on analogies with stocks, flows, and stock-and-flows. These metaphors induce, beyond some useful attributes, the Newtonian mechanics paradigm which is limited by the properties of linear spaces and reversible processes. The purpose of this paper is to show how we can enrich the theory of knowledge by introducing the concepts of knowledge fields and knowledge dynamics based on metaphorical thinking and the thermodynamics principles. The focus of our research is the energy metaphor which considers energy as a source semantic field. The main outcome of the present research is that knowledge can be considered as a field, which is manifesting in different forms like energy. This thermodynamics framework opens new directions for research in knowledge management, decision-making and leadership.
Multiple Virus Infections in Western Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) Ejaculate Used for Instrumental Insemination
Authors: Prodělalová Jana , Moutelíková Romana , Titěra Dalibor
Published: March 2019

Instrumental insemination of Apis mellifera L. queens is a widely employed technique used in honeybee breeding that enables the effective control of mating. However, drone semen represents a potential source of honeybee viruses. In this study, 43 semen doses collected from apparently healthy drones, and consequently used in instrumental insemination, were analysed using PCR or RT-PCR to detect the presence of viral genome of 11 honeybee viruses. In 91% of samples, viral infection was detected. The survey revealed genomes of five viruses, namely Deformed wing virus (DWV), Acute bee paralysis virus (ABPV), Black queen cell virus (BQCV), Sacbrood virus (SBV), and A. mellifera filamentous virus (AmFV) in 84%, 19%, 14%, 2%, and 67% of samples, respectively. Single infection (30% of samples) as well as multiple infection (61% of samples) of two, three or four pathogens were also evaluated. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study describing the presence of the BQCV and SBV genome sequence in drone ejaculate. Phylogenetic analysis of BQCV partial helicase gene sequence revealed the high similarity of nucleotide sequence of described Czech strains, which varied from 91.4% to 99.6%. The findings of our study indicate the possibility of venereal transmission of BQCV and SBV.
In silico Designed Ebola Virus T-Cell Multi-Epitope DNA Vaccine Constructions Are Immunogenic in Mice
Authors: Bazhan Sergei I. , Antonets Denis V. , Karpenko Larisa I. , Oreshkova Svetlana F. , Kaplina Olga N. , Starostina Ekaterina V. , Dudko Sergei G. , Fedotova Sofia A. , Ilyichev Alexander A.
Published: March 2019

Background: The lack of effective vaccines against Ebola virus initiates a search for new approaches to overcoming this problem. The aim of the study was to design artificial polyepitope T-cell immunogens—candidate DNA vaccines against Ebola virus and to evaluate their capacity to induce a specific immune response in a laboratory animal model. Method: Design of two artificial polyepitope T-cell immunogens, one of which (EV.CTL) includes cytotoxic and the other (EV.Th)—T-helper epitopes of Ebola virus proteins was carried out using original TEpredict/PolyCTLDesigner software. Synthesized genes were cloned in pcDNA3.1 plasmid vector. Target gene expression was estimated by synthesis of specific mRNAs and proteins in cells transfected with recombinant plasmids. Immunogenicity of obtained DNA vaccine constructs was evaluated according to their capacity to induce T-cell response in BALB/c mice using IFN ELISpot and ICS. Results: We show that recombinant plasmids pEV.CTL and pEV.Th encoding artificial antigens provide synthesis of corresponding mRNAs and proteins in transfected cells, as well as induce specific responses both to CD4+ and CD8+ T-lymphocytes in immunized animals. Conclusions: The obtained recombinant plasmids can be regarded as promising DNA vaccine candidates in future studies of their capacity to induce cytotoxic and protective responses against Ebola virus.
In Vitro Anthelmintic Activity of Saponins Derived from Medicago spp. Plants against Donkey Gastrointestinal Nematodes
Authors: Maestrini Michela , Tava Aldo , Mancini Simone , Salari Federica , Perrucci Stefania
Published: March 2019

With the aim to find new effective natural compounds for the control of nematodes, the in vitro anthelminthic properties of purified 1% saponins showing different chemical compositions and derived from Medicago sativa (MS), Medicago arborea (MA), Medicago polymorpha cultivar ‘Santiago’ (MPS), M. polymorpha cultivar ‘Anglona’ (MPA), and 1% prosapogenins from M. sativa (MSp), were evaluated and compared. As a source of nematode eggs, pooled fresh fecal samples taken from dairy donkeys naturally infected by gastrointestinal nematodes were used. From fecal samples, eggs were recovered, suspended in deionized water, and used immediately in the bioassay (egg hatch test). The activity of the tested compounds was compared to positive (0.1% thiabendazole) and negative (deionized water and 1% DMSO) controls. All experiments were repeated in triplicate and the obtained data were statistically analyzed. All the tested plant compounds caused a significant (p < 0.05) inhibition of nematode egg hatching (>80%). Moreover, all saponins and prosapogenins showed in vitro anthelmintic properties statistically comparable to that of the reference drug (p < 0.05), except for MPS extract. Obtained results showed that the different Medicago saponins evaluated in this study possess high anthelmintic properties against gastrointestinal nematodes of dairy donkeys, although to a different extent depending on their composition.
The A-Effect and Global Motion
Authors: Guterman Pearl S. , Allison Robert S.
Published: March 2019

When the head is tilted, an objectively vertical line viewed in isolation is typically perceived as tilted. We explored whether this shift also occurs when viewing global motion displays perceived as either object-motion or self-motion. Observers stood and lay left side down while viewing (1) a static line, (2) a random-dot display of 2-D (planar) motion or (3) a random-dot display of 3-D (volumetric) global motion. On each trial, the line orientation or motion direction were tilted from the gravitational vertical and observers indicated whether the tilt was clockwise or counter-clockwise from the perceived vertical. Psychometric functions were fit to the data and shifts in the point of subjective verticality (PSV) were measured. When the whole body was tilted, the perceived tilt of both a static line and the direction of optic flow were biased in the direction of the body tilt, demonstrating the so-called A-effect. However, we found significantly larger shifts for the static line than volumetric global motion as well as larger shifts for volumetric displays than planar displays. The A-effect was larger when the motion was experienced as self-motion compared to when it was experienced as object-motion. Discrimination thresholds were also more precise in the self-motion compared to object-motion conditions. Different magnitude A-effects for the line and motion conditions—and for object and self-motion—may be due to differences in combining of idiotropic (body) and vestibular signals, particularly so in the case of vection which occurs despite visual-vestibular conflict.
I Want to Tell You a Story: How Narrative Water Ethics Contributes to Re-theorizing Water Politics
Authors: Meisch Simon P.
Published: March 2019

This paper explores potential contributions of narrative ethics to the re-theorization of the political in water governance, particularly seeking to rectify concerns regarding when water is excluded from cultural contexts and issues of power and dominance are ignored. Against this background, this paper argues for a re-theorization of the political in water governance, understood as the way in which diverse ideas about possible and desirable human-water relationships and just configurations for their institutionalization are negotiated in society. Theorization is conceived as the concretization of reality rather than its abstraction. Narrative ethics deals with the narrative structure of moral action and the significance of narrations for moral action. It occupies a middle ground and mediates between descriptive ethics that describe moral practices, and prescriptive ethics that substantiate binding norms. A distinguishing feature is its focus on people’s experiences and their praxis. Narrative water ethics is thus able to recognize the multitude of real and possible human-water relationships, to grasp people’s entanglement in their water stories, to examine moral issues in their cultural contexts, and, finally, to develop locally adapted notions of good water governance.