bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of the Present State and Economical Prospects of Solid Waste at Amin Bazar Waste Dumping Site, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Islam M. S. , Sultana A. , Rasheduzzaman M. , Kundu G. K. , Kamal A. K. I. , Uddin M. K.
Published: September 2015

The study was conducted to explore the current status and the economical prospect of the solid waste management at Amin Bazar waste dumping site, Dhaka. A total of 48 waste samples were collected in both dry and wet season to study the physical composition, pH and moisture content of discarded wastes. The wastes were comprised of plastics (6%), paper (3.5%), glass (0.23%), garden waste (8.5%), food stuffs (72.25%), metals (0.16%) and textile products (3.25%). The pH values of the samples were ranges between 6.9-7.8 indicated the neutral condition. Larger portion of the wastes was organic (72%). About 14.38% of waste was recyclable but there is no recycling and composting facility. Proper recycling of the solid wastes at Amin Bazar can be a source of compost and useful metal resources which may contribute in safe and sustainable environmental management.
Influence of Calcination on Different Properties of Sugarcane Bagasse and Waste Ash
Authors: Sultana M. S. , Rahman M. A. , Zaman M. N. , Ahmed A. N.
Published: September 2015

Sugarcane bagasse is a fibrous waste product and important biomass sources, which is used as a fuel in the sugar industry. Bagasse ash is an industrial waste that mainly consists of high amount of silica and carbon materials. In this study sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) and sugarcane waste ash (SCWA) were calcined at 400°C, 600°C, 800°C and 1000°C for 2 h. These samples were characterized in order to evaluate the possibility of their use in different industries.  XRF and XRD analyses were done for chemical and phase analysis of both calcined samples. The chemical composition of calcined SCBA and SCWA indicated that samples had similar compositions of other pozzolanic material. Carbon content has been determined by elemental analyzer. With increasing temperature the percentage of carbon content decreases in both cases. As temperature increases, the color of SCBA and SCWA samples changing from black to grey and white, which also indicates that the carbon content present in the SCBA were reasonably reduced. XRD patterns showed that crystallinity increases with influence of calcining temperature for both ash samples.
An Appraisal of Arsenic and Pesticide Toxicity for Economically Terminal People: a Snap Shot of North-Western Part of Bangladesh
Authors: Alam S. M. M. , Farha M. N. , Zaman A. K. B.
Published: September 2015

The aims of this study were to detect the levels of arsenic (As) and selected organophosphorus pesticides (OPPs) in the drinking water and the water from surface sources, respectively for a small section of poor people of the country Bangladesh, and to relate the levels of these offensive chemicals with their acute physical ailments. Mean levels of As in drinking water from tube wells are found 0.1 ± 0.01 mg L-1, which are nearly ten times higher than the maximum tolerable limits for humans. Correlation studies suggest that higher level of As is significantly correlated with total dissolved solids (TDS) and with few more water quality parameters investigated here. Similar to that, residues of selected OPPs in surface water of the area are also found several fold higher (0.24 - 0.48 µg L-1) than the expected levels, and if the suspended solids of that water are considered then the residue levels would have been further higher. This study has a merit for its findings regarding As toxicity as well as possible OPPs contamination in the investigated area, and suffering of the people from both exposures in relation with their poor economical power is addressed.
The Reception of Descartes in the Seventeenth-Century Scottish Universities: Metaphysics and Natural Philosophy (1650–1680)
Authors: Gellera Giovanni
Published: September 2015

In 1685, during the heyday of Scottish Cartesianism (1670–90), regent Robert Lidderdale from Edinburgh University declared Cartesianism the best philosophy in support of the Reformed faith. It is commonplace that Descartes was ostracised by the Reformed, and his role in pre-Enlightenment Scottish philosophy is not yet fully acknowledged. This paper offers an introduction to Scottish Cartesianism, and argues that the philosophers of the Scottish universities warmed up to Cartesianism because they saw it as a newer, better version of their own traditional Reformed scholasticism, chiefly in metaphysics and natural philosophy.
Reid on Particularism, Habit, and Personal Identity
Authors: Kim Jong Won
Published: September 2015

Are the first principles in the philosophy of Thomas Reid derived inductively from particular experience, or are they self-evident? Is Reid an epistemic particularist, or a methodist? Some scholars interpret him as an epistemic particularistic, while others hold that he is a methodist like other philosophers of his time. This debate was central to an exchange between Roderick Chisholm and Keith Lehrer. Taking the general belief in personal identity as an example, this paper aims to show which interpretation is more consistent with Reid's whole philosophical system. Although Reid believes that the general belief is self-evident without reasoning, it is not self-evident in the way that beliefs in particular cases are. Reid's overall philosophical method makes the self-evidence of particular beliefs more basic, the self-evidence of general beliefs being transferred from particular beliefs by means of habit. I conclude that the particularistic interpretation is more consistent with his whole philosophical system than the methodist interpretation.
Imperceptible Impressions and Disorder in the Soul: A Characterization of the Distinction between Calm and Violent Passions in Hume
Authors: Paxman Katharina
Published: September 2015

Hume's explanation of our tendency to confuse calm passions with reason due to lack of feeling appears to present a tension with his claim that we cannot be mistaken about our own impressions. I argue that the calm/violent distinction cannot be understood in terms of presence/absence of feeling. Rather, for Hume the presence or absence of disruption and disordering of natural and/or customary modes of thought is the key distinction between the calm and violent passions. This reading provides new explanations of our confusion of (felt) calm passions with reason, and the potential for calm passions to prevail over violent.
VNARs: An Ancient and Unique Repertoire of Molecules That Deliver Small, Soluble, Stable and High Affinity Binders of Proteins
Authors: Barelle Caroline , Porter Andy
Published: September 2015

At 420 million years, the variable domain of New Antigen Receptors or VNARs are undoubtedly the oldest (and smallest) antigen binding single domains identified in the vertebrate kingdom. Their role as an integral part of the adaptive immune system of sharks has been well established and has served to provide a greater understanding of the evolution of humoral immunity; their cellular components and processes as well as the underlying genetic organization and molecular control mechanisms. Intriguingly, unlike the variable domain of the camelid heavy chain antibodies or VHH, VNARs do not conform to all of the characteristic properties of classical antibodies with an ancestral origin that clearly distinguishes them from true immunoglobulin antibodies. However, this uniqueness of their origin only adds to their potential as next generation therapeutic biologics with their structural and functional attributes and commercial freedom all enhancing their profile and current success. In fact their small size, remarkable stability, molecular flexibility and solubility, together with their high affinity and selectivity for target, all reinforce the potential of these domains as drug candidates. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the existing basic biology of these unique domains, to highlight the drug-like properties of VNARs and describe current progress in their journey towards the clinic.
Effects of Stratospheric Conditions on the Viability, Metabolism and Proteome of Prokaryotic Cells
Authors: Chudobova Dagmar , Cihalova Kristyna , Jelinkova Pavlina , Zitka Jan , Nejdl Lukas , Guran Roman , Klimanek Martin , Adam Vojtech , Kizek Rene
Published: September 2015

The application of ultraviolet (UV) radiation to inhibit bacterial growth is based on the principle that the exposure of DNA to UV radiation results in the formation of cytotoxic lesions, leading to inactivation of microorganisms. Herein, we present the impacts of UV radiation on bacterial cultures’ properties from the biological, biochemical and molecular biological perspective. For experiments, commercial bacterial cultures (Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium) and isolates from patients with bacterial infections (Proteus mirabilis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) were employed. The above-mentioned strains were exposed to UV using a laboratory source and to stratospheric UV using a 3D printed probe carried by a stratospheric balloon. The length of flight was approximately two hours, and the probe was enriched by sensors for the external environment (temperature, pressure and relative humidity). After the landing, bacterial cultures were cultivated immediately. Experimental results showed a significant effect of UV radiation (both laboratory UV and UV from the stratosphere) on the growth, reproduction, behavior and structure of bacterial cultures. In all parts of the experiment, UV from the stratosphere showed stronger effects when compared to the effects of laboratory UV. The growth of bacteria was inhibited by more than 50% in all cases; moreover, in the case of P. aeruginosa, the growth was even totally inhibited. Due to the effect of UV radiation, an increased susceptibility of bacterial strains to environmental influences was also observed. By using commercial tests for biochemical markers of Gram-positive and Gram-negative strains, significant disparities in exposed and non-exposed strains were found. Protein patterns obtained using MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry revealed that UV exposure is able to affect the proteins’ expression, leading to their downregulation, observed as the disappearance of their peaks from the mass spectrum.
Multi-Facial, Non-Peptidic α-Helix Mimetics
Authors: Lanning Maryanna , Fletcher Steven
Published: September 2015

α-Helices often recognize their target proteins at protein–protein interfaces through more than one recognition face. This review describes the state-of-the-art in the design of non-peptidic α-helix mimetics that reproduce functionality from multiple faces of an α-helix.
Histone Deacetylase Inhibitors Activate Tristetraprolin Expression through Induction of Early Growth Response Protein 1 (EGR1) in Colorectal Cancer Cells
Authors: Sobolewski Cyril , Sanduja Sandhya , Blanco Fernando , Hu Liangyan , Dixon Dan
Published: September 2015

The RNA-binding protein tristetraprolin (TTP) promotes rapid decay of mRNAs bearing 3' UTR AU-rich elements (ARE). In many cancer types, loss of TTP expression is observed allowing for stabilization of ARE-mRNAs and their pathologic overexpression. Here we demonstrate that histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors (Trichostatin A, SAHA and sodium butyrate) promote TTP expression in colorectal cancer cells (HCA-7, HCT-116, Moser and SW480 cells) and cervix carcinoma cells (HeLa). We found that HDAC inhibitors-induced TTP expression, promote the decay of COX-2 mRNA, and inhibit cancer cell proliferation. HDAC inhibitors were found to promote TTP transcription through activation of the transcription factor Early Growth Response protein 1 (EGR1). Altogether, our findings indicate that loss of TTP in tumors occurs through silencing of EGR1 and suggests a therapeutic approach to rescue TTP expression in colorectal cancer.
Quantifying Change in Buildings in a Future Climate and Their Effect on Energy Systems
Authors: Jenkins David , Patidar Sandhya , Simpson Sophie
Published: September 2015

Projected climate change is likely to have a significant impact on a range of energy systems. When a building is the centre of that system, a changing climate will affect the energy system in several ways. Firstly, the energy demand of the building will be altered. Taken across the entire building stock, and placed in context of technological and behavioural changes over the same timescale, this can have implications for important parameters such as peak demand and load factors of energy requirement. The performance of demand-side, distribution/transmission and supply-side technologies can also alter as a result of changing temperatures. With such uncertainty, a flexible approach is required for ensuring that this whole energy system is robust for a wide range of future scenarios. Therefore, building design must have a standardised and systematic approach for integrating climate change into the overall energy assessment of a building (or buildings), understanding the implications for the larger energy network. Based on the work of the Low Carbon Futures (LCF) and Adaptation and Resilience In Energy Systems (ARIES) projects, this paper overviews some of the risks that might be linked to a changing climate in relation to provision and use of energy in buildings. The UK is used as a case-study but the outputs are demonstrated to be of relevance, and the tools applicable, to other countries.
Synthesis of Carbon Nanofibers on Large Woven Cloth
Authors: Kotanjac Željko , Lefferts Leon , Koissin Vitaly , Warnet Laurent , Akkerman Remko
Published: September 2015

This experimental study aims at the in situ growth of carbon nano-fibers (CNFs) on relatively large (25 × 30 cm2) single-layer carbon-fiber fabrics. It is shown that CNFs can be grown with the distribution potentially suitable for a future use in polymer-matrix composite materials. Details of tuning the catalyst deposition method and the CNF growth process are presented and analyzed. In particular, the Ni catalyst deposition method and the type of solvent are shown to strongly influence the uniformity of a CNF growth on carbon fibers, and sometimes even processibility of the whole specimen.
Feasibility of Primary Tumor Culture Models and Preclinical Prediction Assays for Head and Neck Cancer: A Narrative Review
Authors: Dohmen Amy , Swartz Justin , Van Den Brekel Michiel , Willems Stefan , Spijker René , Neefjes Jacques , Zuur Charlotte
Published: September 2015

Primary human tumor culture models allow for individualized drug sensitivity testing and are therefore a promising technique to achieve personalized treatment for cancer patients. This would especially be of interest for patients with advanced stage head and neck cancer. They are extensively treated with surgery, usually in combination with high-dose cisplatin chemoradiation. However, adding cisplatin to radiotherapy is associated with an increase in severe acute toxicity, while conferring only a minor overall survival benefit. Hence, there is a strong need for a preclinical model to identify patients that will respond to the intended treatment regimen and to test novel drugs. One of such models is the technique of culturing primary human tumor tissue. This review discusses the feasibility and success rate of existing primary head and neck tumor culturing techniques and their corresponding chemo- and radiosensitivity assays. A comprehensive literature search was performed and success factors for culturing in vitro are debated, together with the actual value of these models as preclinical prediction assay for individual patients. With this review, we aim to fill a gap in the understanding of primary culture models from head and neck tumors, with potential importance for other tumor types as well.
The Effect of a Long-Range Correlated-Hopping Interaction on Bariev Spin Chains
Authors: Yang Tao , Wen Fa-Kai , Hao Kun , Cao Li-Ke , Yue Rui-Hong
Published: September 2015

We introduce a long-range particle and spin interaction into the standard Bariev model and show that this interaction is equivalent to a phase shift in the kinetic term of the Hamiltonian. When the particles circle around the chain and across the boundary, the accumulated phase shift acts as a twist boundary condition with respect to the normal periodic boundary condition. This boundary phase term depends on the total number of particles in the system and also the number of particles in different spin states, which relates to the spin fluctuations in the system. The model is solved exactly via a unitary transformation by the coordinate Bethe ansatz. We calculate the Bethe equations and work out the energy spectrum with varying number of particles and spins.
Entropic Dynamics
Authors: Caticha Ariel
Published: September 2015

Entropic Dynamics is a framework in which dynamical laws are derived as an application of entropic methods of inference. No underlying action principle is postulated. Instead, the dynamics is driven by entropy subject to the constraints appropriate to the problem at hand. In this paper we review three examples of entropic dynamics. First we tackle the simpler case of a standard diffusion process which allows us to address the central issue of the nature of time. Then we show that imposing the additional constraint that the dynamics be non-dissipative leads to Hamiltonian dynamics. Finally, considerations from information geometry naturally lead to the type of Hamiltonian that describes quantum theory.
A New Family of Consistent and Asymptotically-Normal Estimators for the Extremal Index
Authors: Olmo Jose
Published: September 2015

The extremal index (θ) is the key parameter for extending extreme value theory results from i.i.d. to stationary sequences. One important property of this parameter is that its inverse determines the degree of clustering in the extremes. This article introduces a novel interpretation of the extremal index as a limiting probability characterized by two Poisson processes and a simple family of estimators derived from this new characterization. Unlike most estimators for θ in the literature, this estimator is consistent, asymptotically normal and very stable across partitions of the sample. Further, we show in an extensive simulation study that this estimator outperforms in finite samples the logs, blocks and runs estimation methods. Finally, we apply this new estimator to test for clustering of extremes in monthly time series of unemployment growth and inflation rates and conclude that runs of large unemployment rates are more prolonged than periods of high inflation.
A Critical Review of Robustness in Power Grids Using Complex Networks Concepts
Authors: Cuadra Lucas , Salcedo-Sanz Sancho , Del Ser Javier , Jiménez-Fernández Silvia , Geem Zong
Published: September 2015

This paper reviews the most relevant works that have investigated robustness in power grids using Complex Networks (CN) concepts. In this broad field there are two different approaches. The first one is based solely on topological concepts, and uses metrics such as mean path length, clustering coefficient, efficiency and betweenness centrality, among many others. The second, hybrid approach consists of introducing (into the CN framework) some concepts from Electrical Engineering (EE) in the effort of enhancing the topological approach, and uses novel, more efficient electrical metrics such as electrical betweenness, net-ability, and others. There is however a controversy about whether these approaches are able to provide insights into all aspects of real power grids. The CN community argues that the topological approach does not aim to focus on the detailed operation, but to discover the unexpected emergence of collective behavior, while part of the EE community asserts that this leads to an excessive simplification. Beyond this open debate it seems to be no predominant structure (scale-free, small-world) in high-voltage transmission power grids, the vast majority of power grids studied so far. Most of them have in common that they are vulnerable to targeted attacks on the most connected nodes and robust to random failure. In this respect there are only a few works that propose strategies to improve robustness such as intentional islanding, restricted link addition, microgrids and Energies 2015, 8 9212 smart grids, for which novel studies suggest that small-world networks seem to be the best topology.
Experimental Evaluation of Simple Thermal Storage Control Strategies in Low-Energy Solar Houses to Reduce Electricity Consumption during Grid On-Peak Periods
Authors: Lee Kyoung-Ho , Joo Moon-Chang , Baek Nam-Choon
Published: September 2015

There is growing interest in zero-energy and low-energy buildings, which have a net energy consumption (on an annual basis) of almost zero. Because they can generate both electricity and thermal energy through the use of solar photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal collectors, and with the help of reduced building thermal demand, low-energy buildings can not only make a significant contribution to energy conservation on an annual basis, but also reduce energy consumption and peak demand. This study focused on electricity consumption during the on-peak period in a low-energy residential solar building and considers the use of a building’s thermal mass and thermal storage to reduce electricity consumption in summer and winter by modulation of temperature setpoints for heat pump and indoor thermostats in summer and additional use of a solar heating loop in winter. Experiments were performed at a low-energy solar demonstration house that has solar collectors, hot water storage, a ground-coupled heat pump, and a thermal storage tank. It was assumed that the on-peak periods were from 2 pm to 5 pm on hot summer days and from 5 pm to 8 pm on cold winter days. To evaluate the potential for utilizing the building’s thermal storage capacity in space cooling and heating, the use of simple control strategies on three test days in summer and two test days in the early spring were compared in terms of net electricity consumption and peak demand, which also considered the electricity generation from solar PV modules on the roof of the house.
Structural Properties of Liquid Water and Ice Ih from Ab-Initio Molecular Dynamics with a Non-Local Correlation Functional
Authors: English Niall
Published: September 2015

Equilibrium Born-Oppenheimer molecular dynamics simulations have been performed in the canonical ensemble to investigate the structural properties of liquid water and ice Ih (hexagonal ice) at 298 and 273 K, respectively, using a state-of-the-art non-local correlation functional, whilst size effects have been examined explicitly in the case of liquid water. This has led to improved agreement with experiments for pair distribution functions, in addition to molecular dipole moments, vis-à-vis previous flavours of ab-initio molecular dynamics simulation of water, highlighting the importance of appropriate dispersion. Intramolecular geometry has also been examined, in addition to hydrogen-bonding interactions; it was found that an improved description of dispersion via non-local correlation helps to reduce over-structuring associated with the Perdew-Becke-Ernzerhof (PBE) and other commonly-used functionals.
Can the BestGrid Process Improve Stakeholder Involvement in Electricity Transmission Projects?
Authors: Komendantova Nadejda , Vocciante Marco , Battaglini Antonella
Published: September 2015

The European Union has set ambitious targets for deployment of renewable energy sources to reach goals of climate change mitigation and energy security policies. However, the current state of electricity transmission infrastructure is a major bottleneck for further scaling up of renewable energy in the EU. Several thousands of kilometers of new lines have to be constructed and upgraded to accommodate growing volumes of intermittent renewable electricity. In many countries, construction of electricity transmission projects has been delayed for several years due to concerns of local stakeholders. The innovative BESTGRID approach, reported here, brings together transmission system operators (TSOs) and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to discuss and understand the nature of stakeholder concerns. This paper has three objectives: (1) to understand stakeholder concerns about the deployment of electricity transmission grids in four pilot projects according to five guiding principles: need, transparency, engagement, environment, and impacts on human health as well as benefits; (2) to understand how these principles can be addressed to provide a basis for better decision-making outcomes; and (3) to evaluate the BESTGRID process based on feedback received from stakeholders and the level of participation achieved according to the ladder of Arnstein. This paper goes beyond a discussion of “measures to mitigate opposition” to understand how dialogue between TSOs and the public—represented mainly by NGOs and policy-makers—might lead to a better decision-making process and more sustainable electricity transmission infrastructure deployment.
Further Improvements of an End-Effector for Robotic Assembly of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Gurau Vladimir , Armstrong-Koch Terri
Published: September 2015

This paper presents a technology for robotic assembly of Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs). We describe the most recent configuration of the end-effector used for robotic assembly of PEMFCs, the robot workcell, the fuel cell components and the method of automated assembling fuel cell stacks. In this second generation of end-effector and workcell designs, the productivity of the automated assembly process and the capability of the robot to assemble larger scale fuel cell stacks have been improved. The advantage of the technology presented here consists in its low cost, its simplicity, in its capability of rapidly assembling fuel cell stacks containing a large number of cells due to a passive compliance system of the end-effector and in its capability of accurately aligning the fuel cell components in the stack.
Levelized Cost of Energy Analysis of a Wind Power Generation System at Búrfell in Iceland
Authors: Ragnarsson Birgir , Oddsson Gudmundur , Unnthorsson Runar , Hrafnkelsson Birgir
Published: September 2015

Wind energy harnessing is a new energy production alternative in Iceland. Current installed wind power in Iceland sums to 1.8 MW, which in contrast is 0.1% of the country’s total electricity production. This article is dedicated to the exploration of the potential cost of wind energy production at Búrfell in the south of Iceland. A levelized cost of energy (LCOE) approach was applied to the estimation of the potential cost. Weibull simulation is used to simulate wind data for calculations. A confirmation of the power law is done by comparing real data to calculated values. A modified Weibull simulation is verified by comparing results with actual on-site test wind turbines. A wind farm of 99MWis suggested for the site. Key results were the capacity factor (CF) at Búrfell being 38.15% on average and that the LCOE for wind energy was estimated as 0.087–0.088 USD/kWh (assuming 10% weighted average cost of capital (WACC)), which classifies Búrfell among the lowest LCOE sites for wind energy in Europe.
Analysis of a New Liquefaction Combined with Desublimation System for CO2 Separation Based on N2/CO2 Phase Equilibrium
Authors: Yang Wenchao , Li Shuhong , Li Xianliang , Liang Yuanyuan , Zhang Xiaosong
Published: September 2015

Cryogenic CO2 capture is considered as a promising CO2 capture method due to its energy saving and environmental friendliness. The phase equilibrium analysis of CO2-mixtures at low temperature is crucial for the design and operation of a cryogenic system because it plays an important role in analysis of recovery and purity of the captured CO2. After removal of water and toxic gas, the main components in typical boiler gases are N2/CO2. Therefore, this paper evaluates the reliabilities of different cubic equations of state (EOS) and mixing rules for N2/CO2. The results show that Peng-Robinson (PR) and Soave-Redlich-Kwong (SRK) fit the experimental data well, PR combined with the van der Waals (vdW) mixing rule is more accurate than the other models. With temperature decrease, the accuracy of the model improves and the deviation of the N2 vapor fraction is 0.43% at 220 K. Based on the selected calculation model, the thermodynamic properties of N2/CO2 at low temperature are analyzed. According to the results, a new liquefaction combined with a desublimation system is proposed. The total recovery and purity of CO2 production of the new system are satisfactory enough for engineering applications. Additionally, the total energy required by the new system to capture the CO2 is about 3.108 MJ·kg−1 CO2, which appears to be at least 9% lower than desublimation separation when the initial concentration of CO2 is 40%.
Economic Valuation of Mangroves for Comparison with Commercial Aquaculture in South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Malik Abdul , Fensholt Rasmus , Mertz Ole
Published: September 2015

Mangroves are recognized as a provider of a variety of products and essential ecosystem services that contribute significantly to the livelihood of local communities. However, over the past decades, mangroves in many tropical areas including the Takalar district, South Sulawesi have degraded and decreased mainly due to conversion to aquaculture. Currently, little is known about the economic benefits of commercialization of aquaculture as compared to those derived from mangroves in the form of products and services. Here, we estimate the Total Economic Value (TEV) of mangrove benefits in order to compare it with the benefit value of commercial aquaculture. Market prices, replacement costs, benefit transfer value and Cost-Benefit Analyses (CBA) have been used for value determination and comparison. The results show that the per year TEV of mangroves in the study area (Takalar district, South Sulawesi) was in the range of 4370 thousands USD (kUSD) to 10,597 kUSD or 4 kUSD to 8 kUSD per hectare (the highest value contribution derived from the indirect use value (94%)), whereas commercial aquaculture had a net benefit value of 228 kUSD or 3 kUSD per hectare. In addition, the comparison of Net Present Value (NPV) between the benefit value of mangroves and that of commercial aquaculture revealed that conversion of mangroves into commercial aquaculture was not economically beneficial when the analysis was expanded to cover the costs of environmental and forest rehabilitation.
Economic Impact of Net Carbon Payments and Bioenergy Production in Fertilized and Non-Fertilized Loblolly Pine Plantations
Authors: Shrestha Prativa , Stainback George , Dwivedi Puneet
Published: September 2015

Sequestering carbon in forest stands and using woody bioenergy are two potential ways to utilize forests in mitigating emissions of greenhouse gases (GHGs). Such forestry related strategies are, however, greatly influenced by carbon and bioenergy markets. This study investigates the impact of both carbon and woody bioenergy markets on land expectation value (LEV) and rotation age of loblolly pine (Pinus taeda L.) forests in the southeastern United States for two scenarios—one with thinning and no fertilization and the other with thinning and fertilization. Economic analysis was conducted using a modified Hartman model. The amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted during various activities such as management of stands, harvesting, and product decay was included in the model. Sensitivity analysis was conducted with a range of carbon offset, wood for bioenergy, and forest product prices. The results showed that LEV increased in both management scenarios as the price of carbon and wood for bioenergy increased. However, the results indicated that the management scenario without fertilizer was optimal at low carbon prices and the management scenario with fertilizer was optimal at higher carbon prices for medium and low forest product prices. Carbon payments had a greater impact on LEV than prices for wood utilized for bioenergy. Also, increase in the carbon price increased the optimal rotation age, whereas, wood prices for bioenergy had little impact. The management scenario without fertilizer was found to have longer optimal rotation ages.
Bargaining over Strategies of Non-Cooperative Games
Authors: Attanasi Giuseppe , García-Gallego Aurora , Georgantzís Nikolaos , Montesano Aldo
Published: September 2015

We propose a bargaining process supergame over the strategies to play in a non-cooperative game. The agreement reached by players at the end of the bargaining process is the strategy profile that they will play in the original non-cooperative game. We analyze the subgame perfect equilibria of this supergame, and its implications on the original game. We discuss existence, uniqueness, and efficiency of the agreement reachable through this bargaining process. We illustrate the consequences of applying such a process to several common two-player non-cooperative games: the Prisoner’s Dilemma, the Hawk-Dove Game, the Trust Game, and the Ultimatum Game. In each of them, the proposed bargaining process gives rise to Pareto-efficient agreements that are typically different from the Nash equilibrium of the original games.
Stable Sampling Equilibrium in Common Pool Resource Games
Authors: Cárdenas Juan , Mantilla César , Sethi Rajiv
Published: September 2015

This paper reconsiders evidence from experimental common pool resource games from the perspective of a model of payoff sampling. Despite being parameter-free, the model is able to replicate some striking features of the data, including single-peaked frequency distributions, the persistent use of strictly dominated actionsand stable heterogeneity in choices. These properties can also be accurately replicated using logit quantal response equilibrium (QRE), but only by tuning the free parameter separately for separate games. When the QRE parameter is constrained to be the same across games, sampling equilibrium provides a superior fit to the data. We argue that these findings are likely to generalize to other complex games with multiple players and strategies.
Synthesis and Properties of New “Stimuli” Responsive Nanocomposite Hydrogels Containing Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Deen G. , Chua Vivien
Published: September 2015

Hydrogel nanocomposites containing silver nanoparticles of size 15–21 nm were prepared by diffusion and in-situ chemical reduction in chemically crosslinked polymers based on N-acryloyl-N′-ethyl piperazine (AcrNEP) and N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM). The polymer chains of the hydrogel network offered control and stabilization of silver nanoparticles without the need for additional stabilizers. The presence of silver nanoparticles and their size was quantified by UV-Vis absorption spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The nanocomposite hydrogels were responsive to pH and temperature changes of the external environment. The equilibrium weight swelling ratio of the hydrogel nanocomposite was lower in comparison with the precursor hydrogel. Silver nanoparticles present in the nanocomposite offered additional physical crosslinking which influenced media diffusion and penetration velocity. The release of silver nanoparticles from the hydrogel matrix in response to external pH changes was studied. The rate of release of silver nanoparticles was higher in a solution of pH 2.5 due to maximum swelling caused by ionization of the gel network. No significant release of nanoparticles was observed in a solution of pH 7.
Chromatin Insulators and Topological Domains: Adding New Dimensions to 3D Genome Architecture
Authors: Matharu Navneet , Ahanger Sajad
Published: September 2015

The spatial organization of metazoan genomes has a direct influence on fundamental nuclear processes that include transcription, replication, and DNA repair. It is imperative to understand the mechanisms that shape the 3D organization of the eukaryotic genomes. Chromatin insulators have emerged as one of the central components of the genome organization tool-kit across species. Recent advancements in chromatin conformation capture technologies have provided important insights into the architectural role of insulators in genomic structuring. Insulators are involved in 3D genome organization at multiple spatial scales and are important for dynamic reorganization of chromatin structure during reprogramming and differentiation. In this review, we will discuss the classical view and our renewed understanding of insulators as global genome organizers. We will also discuss the plasticity of chromatin structure and its re-organization during pluripotency and differentiation and in situations of cellular stress.
Acute Cardiovascular Response to Sign Chi Do Exercise
Authors: Rogers Carol , Carlson John , Garver Kayla
Published: September 2015

Safe and gentle exercise may be important for older adults overcoming a sedentary lifestyle. Sign Chi Do (SCD), a novel form of low impact exercise, has shown improved balance and endurance in healthy older adults, and there have been no SCD-related injuries reported. Sedentary older adults are known to have a greater cardiovascular (CV) response to physical activity than those who regularly exercise. However their CV response to SCD is unknown. This study explored the acute CV response of older adults to SCD. Cross-sectional study of 34 sedentary and moderately active adults over age 55 with no previous experience practicing SCD. Participants completed a 10 min session of SCD. CV outcomes of heart rate, blood pressure, rate pressure product were recorded at 0, 5, 10 min of SCD performance, and after 10 min of rest. HR was recorded every minute. There was no difference in CV scores of sedentary and moderately active older adults after a session of SCD-related activity. All CV scores increased at 5 min, were maintained at 10 min, and returned to baseline within 10 min post SCD (p < 0.05). SCD may be a safe way to increase participation in regular exercise by sedentary older adults.
The Experiences of Tobacco Use among South-Western Taiwanese Adolescent Males
Authors: Hong Rei-Mei , Guo Su-Er , Chen Mei-Yen
Published: September 2015

Most smokers start young. Initiation of cigarette smoking at an earlier age leads to more life-years for tobacco use, makes quitting harder, and increases the risk of serious health consequences. Despite these challenges, research focusing on smoking behavior among adolescent boys in Taiwan is rare. Although the Taiwanese government enacted the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act in 2009, aimed at prevention and reducing the rate of smoking, the percentage of high school students who smoke has continued to increase. In 2006, 7.5% of adolescent boys engaged in smoking. By 2012 the rate had increased to 24.6%. This paper explores the experiences that contribute to adolescent Taiwanese boys making the decision to smoke. A phenomenological approach to inquiry was used as the philosophical foundations for this study with twelve adolescent boys who engaged in smoking behaviors. Data was gathered through two face-to-face semi-structured interviews and a focus group. Data analysis was performed using Colaizzi’s analysis method. Findings indicated that decisions to begin smoking were motivated by curiosity and as a means of establishing friendships while decisions to continue smoking were linked to the addictive nature of smoking and as a means of coping with stress and passing the time. The findings can be used to inform the prevention of tobacco use and to reduce the high smoking rates among adolescent boys.
Spatial and Spatio-Temporal Models for Modeling Epidemiological Data with Excess Zeros
Authors: Arab Ali
Published: September 2015

Epidemiological data often include excess zeros. This is particularly the case for data on rare conditions, diseases that are not common in specific areas or specific time periods, and conditions and diseases that are hard to detect or on the rise. In this paper, we provide a review of methods for modeling data with excess zeros with focus on count data, namely hurdle and zero-inflated models, and discuss extensions of these models to data with spatial and spatio-temporal dependence structures. We consider a Bayesian hierarchical framework to implement spatial and spatio-temporal models for data with excess zeros. We further review current implementation methods and computational tools. Finally, we provide a case study on five-year counts of confirmed cases of Lyme disease in Illinois at the county level.
Burden of Outdoor Air Pollution in Kerala, India—A First Health Risk Assessment at State Level
Authors: Tobollik Myriam , Razum Oliver , Wintermeyer Dirk , Plass Dietrich
Published: September 2015

Ambient air pollution causes a considerable disease burden, particularly in South Asia. The objective of the study is to test the feasibility of applying the environmental burden of disease method at state level in India and to quantify a first set of disease burden estimates due to ambient air pollution in Kerala. Particulate Matter (PM) was used as an indicator for ambient air pollution. The disease burden was quantified in Years of Life Lost (YLL) for the population (30 + years) living in urban areas of Kerala. Scenario analyses were performed to account for uncertainties in the input parameters. 6108 (confidence interval (95% CI): 4150–7791) of 81,636 total natural deaths can be attributed to PM, resulting in 96,359 (95% CI: 65,479–122,917) YLLs due to premature mortality (base case scenario, average for 2008–2011). Depending on the underlying assumptions the results vary between 69,582 and 377,195 YLLs. Around half of the total burden is related to cardiovascular deaths. Scenario analyses show that a decrease of 10% in PM concentrations would save 15,904 (95% CI: 11,090–19,806) life years. The results can be used to raise awareness about air quality standards at a local level and to support decision-making processes aiming at cleaner and healthier environments.
Effect of Personal Exposure to PM2.5 on Respiratory Health in a Mexican Panel of Patients with COPD
Authors: Cortez-Lugo Marlene , Ramírez-Aguilar Matiana , Pérez-Padilla Rogelio , Sansores-Martínez Raúl , Ramírez-Venegas Alejandra , Barraza-Villarreal Albino
Published: September 2015

Background: Air pollution is a problem, especially in developing countries. We examined the association between personal exposure to particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter less than 2.5 µm (PM2.5) on respiratory health in a group of adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Methods: All participants resided in Mexico City and during follow-up, personal exposure to PM2.5, respiratory symptoms, medications, and daily activity were registered daily. Peak expiratory flow (PEF) was measured twice daily, from February through December, 2000, in 29 adults with moderate, severe, and very severe COPD. PEF changes were estimated for each 10 µg/m3 increment of PM2.5, adjustment for severity of COPD, minimum temperature, and day of the sampling. Results: For a 10-µg/m3 increase in the daily average of a two-day personal exposure to PM2.5, there was a significant 33% increase in cough (95% CI, range, 5‒69%), and 23% in phlegm (95% CI, range, 2‒54%), a reduction of the PEF average in the morning of −1.4 L/min. (95% CI , range, −2.8 to −0.04), and at night of −3.0 L/min (95% CI, range, −5.7 to −0.3), respectively. Conclusions: Exposure to PM2.5 was associated with reductions in PEF and increased respiratory symptoms in adults with COPD. The PEF reduction was observed both at morning and at night.
A Bayesian Approach to Account for Misclassification and Overdispersion in Count Data
Authors: Wu Wenqi , Stamey James , Kahle David
Published: September 2015

Count data are subject to considerable sources of what is often referred to as non-sampling error. Errors such as misclassification, measurement error and unmeasured confounding can lead to substantially biased estimators. It is strongly recommended that epidemiologists not only acknowledge these sorts of errors in data, but incorporate sensitivity analyses into part of the total data analysis. We extend previous work on Poisson regression models that allow for misclassification by thoroughly discussing the basis for the models and allowing for extra-Poisson variability in the form of random effects. Via simulation we show the improvements in inference that are brought about by accounting for both the misclassification and the overdispersion.
Perceived Discrimination and Health among Immigrants in Europe According to National Integration Policies
Authors: Borrell Carme , Palència Laia , Bartoll Xavier , Ikram Umar , Malmusi Davide
Published: September 2015

Background: Discrimination harms immigrants’ health. The objective of this study was to analyze the association between perceived discrimination and health outcomes among first and second generation immigrants from low-income countries living in Europe, while accounting for sex and the national policy on immigration. Methods: Cross-sectional study including immigrants from low-income countries aged ≥15 years in 18 European countries (European Social Survey, 2012) (sample of 1271 men and 1335 women). The dependent variables were self-reported health, symptoms of depression, and limitation of activity. The independent variables were perceived group discrimination, immigrant background and national immigrant integration policy. We tested for association between perceived group discrimination and health outcomes by fitting robust Poisson regression models. Results: We only observed significant associations between perceived group discrimination and health outcomes in first generation immigrants. For example, depression was associated with discrimination among both men and women (Prevalence Ratio-, 1.55 (95% CI: 1.16–2.07) and 1.47 (95% CI: 1.15–1.89) in the multivariate model, respectively), and mainly in countries with assimilationist immigrant integration policies. Conclusion: Perceived group discrimination is associated with poor health outcomes in first generation immigrants from low-income countries who live in European countries, but not among their descendants. These associations are more important in assimilationist countries.
Space for Climate
Authors: Mathieu Pierre-Philippe
Published: September 2015

This paper describes how Earth Observation (EO) data—in particular from satellites—can support climate science, monitoring, and services by delivering global, repetitive, consistent, and timely information on the state of the environment and its evolution. Some examples are presented of EO demonstration pilot projects performed in partnership with scientists, industry, and development practitioners to support climate science, adaptation, mitigation, and disaster risk management. In particular, the paper highlights the challenge of gathering observations and generating long-term climate data records, which provide the foundation of risk management. The paper calls for a science-based integrated approach to climate risk management supported by data and knowledge, providing decision-makers with a unique analytical lens to develop a safety net to risk and maximize opportunities related to climate change and variability.