bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modelling Ebola
Authors: Kamalaldin Kamalaldin , Salome Amber , Érdi Péter
Published: June 2016

This paper is the combination of a review on the problems of data collection and modelling efforts of the recent Ebola epidemics. After a brief review of data availability, the modelling frameworks have been discussed. Both deterministic and stochastic models have been reviewed and supplemented with a short discussion of some problems of parameter estimation. The methods have been illustrated by a realistic case study. A hint is given for the scope and limits of prediction and control.
X Makes Nine: A Distant Ice Giant in the Solar System
Authors: Van Den Berg Hugo A.
Published: June 2016

Ever since Pluto lost its status as one of the main planets of our solar system and was demoted to just another frozen denizen of the Kuiper belt, we have had to make do with eight, albeit in a pleasing symmetry, with four rocky ones this side of the asteroid belt and four giants on the far side. Now it looks like number nine is back on the slate: the existence of a large planet, about ten times as massive as Earth and hundreds of times more distant from the Sun than Earth itself, has been postulated to explain the curiously bunched-up orbits of several small celestial bodies, far beyond the orbit of Neptune. To date, we have only “proof by simulation” and we are yet to observe this massive planet in the backyard of our solar system by more direct means. However, powerful new telescopes should provide visual evidence within the next few decades.
Kinetics of aquation of Ni(II) oxydiacetate complex induced by Fe(III) ions
Authors: Pranczk Joanna , Jacewicz Dagmara , Wyrzykowski Dariusz , Żyndul Michałt , Tesmar Aleksandra , Chniurzyński Lech
Published: June 2016

The kinetics of the aquation reaction of [Ni(ODA)(H2O)3] (where ODA = oxydiacetate) promoted by [Fe(H2O)6]3+ ions were investigated. Spectrophotometry studies were carried out at temperatures within the range 293.15–313.15 K. The concentration of [Ni(ODA)(H2O)3] was 8.67 × 10–4 mol L–1 and the concentration of the [Fe(H2O)6]3+ ions was kept within the range 0.75 × 10–4–7.50 × 10–4 mol L–1. The observable reaction rate constants increased with the increase of [Fe3+] according to the rate law:

kobs = k + k1K{[Fe(H2O)6]3+}.

Based on the kinetic data, the activation parameters were determined for the spontaneous step of the reaction and for the step dependent on the concentration of Fe3+ ions. A mechanism for the aquation reaction has been proposed. In the first step (the reversible part of the aquation reaction) a dinuclear intermediate product is produced and in the next step the products of the reaction, ([Ni(H2O)6]2+ and [Fe(ODA)(H2O)3]+), are formed. Nevertheless, it has turned out that the spontaneous path of the aquation reaction is also possible concurrently (independent of the presence of Fe3+ ions). However, this process is too slow to be accurately measurable.
A new LHHW kinetic model for CO2 hydrogenation over an iron catalyst
Authors: Pour Ali Nakhaei , Housaindokht Mohammad Reza , Monhemi Hassan
Published: June 2016

A new Langmuir–Hinshelwood–Hougen–Watson (LHHW) type kinetic model is developed for carbon dioxide hydrogenation over a precipitated Fe/Cu/K catalyst in a continuous spinning basket reactor. A number of possible reaction sets originating from the combination of the formate mechanism for the water gas shift reaction and the enolic mechanism for the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis, with various rate determining steps, are considered. The results show that the CO2 hydrogenation process is limited by the reaction between surface CO and hydrogen species to form enolic (HCO) units. This surface reaction is the key reaction step in producing higher hydrocarbons by the Fischer–Tropsch synthesis.
Theoretical study on the reaction mechanisms of CH3ONO with F, Cl and Br atoms
Authors: Wang Lu , Du Chong-Yang , Cui Xiang-Yang , Zheng Xiao-Wen , Liu Tao
Published: June 2016

The reaction mechanisms of CH3ONO with halogen atoms (F, Cl and Br) were investigated using density functional theory. The calculated results show that halogen atoms can react with cis-CH3ONO and trans-CH3ONO by attacking the C, H and O atoms connected to the methoxy group in CH3ONO. The lowest-energy pathway for the reactions is that in which the halogen atom attacks the H atom in CH3ONO and the free energy barriers are increased as the electronegativity of the halogen atom decreases.
A computational study on the reaction mechanism of neutral phenol with formaldehyde in aqueous solution
Authors: Cao Ming , Li Taohong , Wu Zhigang , Liang Jiankun , Xie Xiaoguang , Du Guanben
Published: June 2016

The reaction mechanism of neutral phenol with formaldehyde in aqueous solution was studied theoretically by using the GGA-PW91/DNP+COSMO method. In previous studies, it was found that the water molecules can mediate proton transfer from nitrogen to oxygen, but the results of this study show that water molecules can also catalyse proton transfer from carbon to oxygen. With the mediation of water, the energy barriers were greatly lowered. The calculated energy barriers indicate that the para-position of phenol has higher reactivity than the ortho-position. The reaction occurs in a concerted mechanism. However, the process exhibits asynchronous characteristics, particularly the C–C bond formation precedes the proton transfer and the proton transfer from water molecules to the carbonyl oxygen is ahead of proton abstraction from the benzene ring.
DFT study on the regio- and stereo-selectivity of the Diels–Alder reaction between a cycloprop-2-ene carboxylate and some cyclic 1,3-dienes
Authors: Haghdadi Mina , Nab Nasim , Bosra Hassan Ghasemnejad
Published: June 2016

A study of the reactivity and regio- and stereo-selectivity of Diels-Alder reactions of 2-methyl-3-propionylcycloprop-2-ene carboxylic acid methyl ester with cyclohexa-1,3-diene derivatives and furan, in the gas phase, has been carried out using density functional theory (DFT)-based reactivity indices and activation energies. Four reaction channels associated with ortho (or meta), meta (or para), endo and exo pathways have been explored and characterised. The activation energies indicate that the endo pathways are preferred and DFT-based reactivity indices clearly predict the stereochemistry of the isolated cycloadducts.
Unified kinetics of n-heptane hydroisomerisation over various Pt/zeolite catalysts
Authors: Usman Muhammad R. , Alotaibi Faisal M.
Published: June 2016

Hydroisomerisation of n-heptane has been carried out over six Pt-loaded zeolite-based catalysts. The activity and selectivity of each catalyst under various operating conditions of temperature, pressure and time were studied. Generally, a low pressure and high temperature favoured the overall n-heptane conversion while the selectivity towards isomers decreased at high temperature as the overall conversion increased to a high value. Based on the initial rates, kinetic modelling of the experimental data was carried out using power law kinetics and a simplified dual-site Langmuir–Hinshelwood–Hougen–Watson (LHHW) model. The LHHW approach was found more appropriate in representing the experimental data obtained over each catalyst and a kinetic model equation developed on the basis of surface reaction rate controlling best fitted to the experimental data. The activation energies were found to be in the range 94–143 kJ mol–1.
A DFT study on the kinetics and mechanism of cyclodiglycine thermal decomposition in the gas phase
Authors: Khavani Mohammad , Izadyar Mohammad , Mehranfar Aliyeh
Published: June 2016

Theoretical investigations using density functional theory have been performed on the kinetics and mechanism of cyclodiglycine (piperazine-2,5-dione) thermal decomposition in the gas phase. Five major possible paths have been proposed and analysed. α-Lactam, β-lactam, 4-imidazolidinone and smaller species such as HNCO, H2CNH, H2CCO, CO, H2 and HCN can be produced through these paths. The route yielding aziridine and HNCO is the optimum channel for this reaction from the energy point of view. Finally, according to the quantum theory of atoms in molecules, electron localisation function and localised orbital locator analyses, it was confirmed that a concerted mechanism operates for the reaction and all critical bonds of the transition states have covalent character.
Facile synthesis of bis-thiosemicarbazone derivatives as key precursors for the preparation of functionalised bis-thiazoles
Authors: Arafa Wael A.A. , Badry Mohamed G.
Published: June 2016

A new class of bis-thiosemicarbazones was designed and synthesised by the condensation of 2,6-diformylphenol derivatives and thiosemicarbazide using either ultrasound or conventional methods. Both thiosemicarbazone groups of these derivatives underwent a heterocyclisation process to give a series of novel bis-thiazole derivatives as major products. The structures of all the synthesised compounds were characterised by multinuclear NMR (1H and 13C), IR, HRMS and elemental analyses.
Dual solutions for unsteady flow of Powell-Eyring fluid past an inclined stretching sheet
Authors: Krishna P. M. , Sandeep N. , Reddy J. V. R. , Sugunamma V.
Published: June 2016

This paper deals with the heat and mass transfer in unsteady flow of Powell-Eyring fluid past an inclined stretching sheet in the presence of radiation, non-uniform heat source/sink and chemical reaction with suction/injection effects. The governing equations are reduced into system of ordinary differential equations using similarity transformation and solved numerically using Runge-Kutta based shooting technique. Results display the influence of governing parameters on the flow, heat and mass transfer, friction factor, local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers. Comparisons are made with the existed studies. Present results have an excellent agreement with the existed studies. Results indicate that an increase in the chemical reaction parameter depreciates the friction factor, heat transfer rate and enhances the mass transfer rate. Dual solutions exist only for certain range of suction/injection parameters.
Spaces and Times of Québec in Two Films by Xavier Dolan
Authors: Marshall Bill
Published: June 2016

After an introductory section which places the film career of Xavier Dolan within the context of the transnational and other changes that have affected Québec cinema since 2000, this article seeks to explore two of his films, Laurence Anyways (2012) and Tom à la ferme (2013), by bringing together insights from queer theory, cultural geography, and Foucauldian analyses of space and power. The space of the cinematic frame is explored in conjunction with examinations of the ‘outside belongings’ of Montreal balconies, the place of the suburbs, heterotopias, rural/urban, and the ‘closet’. This approach in turn sheds light on Dolan's probing of the boundaries that regulate the ‘normal’, and the way his multiple framing techniques point to altered perceptions amongst millennials of Québec's place in North America and the wider world.
Oxygen Reduction Electrocatalysts Based on Coupled Iron Nitride Nanoparticles with Nitrogen-Doped Carbon
Authors: Park Min , Lee Jin , Hembram K. , Lee Kwang-Ryeol , Han Sang , Yoon Chang , Nam Suk-Woo , Kim Jin
Published: June 2016

Aimed at developing a highly active and stable non-precious metal electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), a novel FexNy/NC nanocomposite—that is composed of highly dispersed iron nitride nanoparticles supported on nitrogen-doped carbon (NC)—was prepared by pyrolyzing carbon black with an iron-containing precursor in an NH3 atmosphere. The influence of the various synthetic parameters such as the Fe precursor, Fe content, pyrolysis temperature and pyrolysis time on ORR performance of the prepared iron nitride nanoparticles was investigated. The formed phases were determined by experimental and simulated X-ray diffraction (XRD) of numerous iron nitride species. We found that Fe3N phase creates superactive non-metallic catalytic sites for ORR that are more active than those of the constituents. The optimized Fe3N/NC nanocomposite exhibited excellent ORR activity and a direct four-electron pathway in alkaline solution. Furthermore, the hybrid material showed outstanding catalytic durability in alkaline electrolyte, even after 4,000 potential cycles.
DICONALE: A Novel German-Spanish Onomasiological Lexicographical Model Involving Paradigmatic and Syntagmatic Information
Authors: Sánchez Hernández Paloma
Published: June 2016

This contribution, based on the DICONALE ON LINE and COMBIDIGILEX (FFI2015-64476-P) research projects, aims to create an onomasiological bilingual dictionary with online access for German and Spanish verbal lexemes. The objective of this work is to present the most relevant contributions of the dictionary based on two lexemes from the COGNITION conceptual field, the LERNEN/APRENDER subfield. The DICONALE dictionary aims to fill the gap left by the current German–Spanish bilingual lexicography. The novelty is not only the electronic format, but also the inclusion of paradigmatic and syntagmatic information into one dictionary, and the contrastive aspects, subjects that until now have not been found in any onomasiological dictionaries in this area. In addition to the description of the paradigmatic and syntagmatic relationships, it also presents certain characteristics related to the contrastive analysis of the two lexemes. On the one hand, it aims to offer a panoramic view of the most relevant features of the dictionary while, on the other hand, attempting to demonstrate the relevance of said criteria in the contrasting German-Spanish lexicography.
New Scheme for Seamless Operation for Stand-Alone Power Systems
Authors: Kim Hyun-Jun , Lee Yoon-Seok , Han Byung-Moon , Yoon Young-Doo
Published: June 2016

On remote islands photovoltaic (PV) panels with battery energy storage systems (BESSs) supply electric power to customers in parallel operation with engine generators (EGs) to reduce fuel consumption and environmental burden. A BESS operates in voltage control mode when it supplies power to loads alone, while it operates in current control mode when it supplies power to loads in parallel with the EG. This paper proposes a smooth mode change of the BESS from current control to voltage control by using initial value at the output of integral part in the voltage controller, and a smooth mode change from voltage control to current control by tracking the EG output voltage to the BESS output voltage using a phase-locked loop (PLL). The feasibility of the proposed scheme was verified through computer simulations and experiments with a scaled prototype.
The Combination of DGT Technique and Traditional Chemical Methods for Evaluation of Cadmium Bioavailability in Contaminated Soils with Organic Amendment
Authors: Yao Yu , Sun Qin , Wang Chao , Wang Pei-Fang , Miao Ling-Zhan , Ding Shi-Ming
Published: June 2016

Organic amendments have been proposed as a means of remediation for Cd-contaminated soils. However, understanding the inhibitory effects of organic materials on metal immobilization requires further research. In this study colza cake, a typical organic amendment material, was investigated in order to elucidate the ability of this material to reduce toxicity of Cd-contaminated soil. Available concentrations of Cd in soils were measured using an in situ diffusive gradients in thin films (DGT) technique in combination with traditional chemical methods, such as HOAc (aqua regia), EDTA (ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid), NaOAc (sodium acetate), CaCl2, and labile Cd in pore water. These results were applied to predict the Cd bioavailability after the addition of colza cake to Cd-contaminated soil. Two commonly grown cash crops, wheat and maize, were selected for Cd accumulation studies, and were found to be sensitive to Cd bioavailability. Results showed that the addition of colza cake may inhibit the growth of wheat and maize. Furthermore, the addition of increasing colza cake doses led to decreasing shoot and root biomass accumulation. However, increasing colza cake doses did lead to the reduction of Cd accumulation in plant tissues, as indicated by the decreasing Cd concentrations in shoots and roots. The labile concentration of Cd obtained by DGT measurements and the traditional chemical extraction methods, showed the clear decrease of Cd with the addition of increasing colza cake doses. All indicators showed significant positive correlations (p < 0.01) with the accumulation of Cd in plant tissues, however, all of the methods could not reflect plant growth status. Additionally, the capability of Cd to change from solid phase to become available in a soil solution decreased with increasing colza cake doses. This was reflected by the decreases in the ratio (R) value of CDGT to Csol. Our study suggests that the sharp decrease in R values could not only reflect the extremely low capability of labile Cd to be released from its solid phase, but may also be applied to evaluate the abnormal growth of the plants.
Evaluation of Volatile Organic Compounds and Carbonyl Compounds Present in the Cabins of Newly Produced, Medium- and Large-Size Coaches in China
Authors: Lu Yan-Yang , Lin Yi , Zhang Han , Ding Dongxiao , Sun Xia , Huang Qiansheng , Lin Lifeng , Chen Ya-Jie , Chi Yu-Lang , Dong Sijun
Published: June 2016

An air-conditioned coach is an important form of transportation in modern motorized society; as a result, there is an increasing concern of in-vehicle air pollution. In this study, we aimed to identify and quantify the levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbonyl compounds (CCs) in air samples collected from the cabins of newly produced, medium- and large-size coaches. Among the identified VOCs and CCs, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde, acrolein/acetone, and isovaleraldehyde were relatively abundant in the cabins. Time was found to affect the emissions of the contaminants in the coaches. Except for benzaldehyde, valeraldehyde and benzene, the highest in-vehicle concentrations of VOCs and CCs were observed on the 15th day after coming off the assembly line, and the concentrations exhibited an approximately inverted U-shaped pattern as a function of time. Interestingly, this study also showed that the interior temperature of the coaches significantly affected the VOCs emissions from the interior materials, whereas the levels of CCs were mainly influenced by the relative humidity within the coaches. In China, guidelines and regulations for the in-vehicle air quality assessment of the coaches have not yet been issued. The results of this study provide further understanding of the in-vehicle air quality of air-conditioned coaches and can be used in the development of both specific and general rules regarding medium- and large-size coaches.
A Fractal Perspective on Scale in Geography
Authors: Jiang Bin , Brandt S.
Published: June 2016

Scale is a fundamental concept that has attracted persistent attention in geography literature over the past several decades. However, it creates enormous confusion and frustration, particularly in the context of geographic information science, because of scale-related issues such as image resolution and the modifiable areal unit problem (MAUP). This paper argues that the confusion and frustration arise from traditional Euclidean geometric thinking, in which locations, directions, and sizes are considered absolute, and it is now time to revise this conventional thinking. Hence, we review fractal geometry, together with its underlying way of thinking, and compare it to Euclidean geometry. Under the paradigm of Euclidean geometry, everything is measurable, no matter how big or small. However, most geographic features, due to their fractal nature, are essentially unmeasurable or their sizes depend on scale. For example, the length of a coastline, the area of a lake, and the slope of a topographic surface are all scale-dependent. Seen from the perspective of fractal geometry, many scale issues, such as the MAUP, are inevitable. They appear unsolvable, but can be dealt with. To effectively deal with scale-related issues, we present topological and scaling analyses illustrated by street-related concepts such as natural streets, street blocks, and natural cities. We further contend that one of the two spatial properties, spatial heterogeneity, is de facto the fractal nature of geographic features, and it should be considered the first effect among the two, because it is global and universal across all scales, which should receive more attention from practitioners of geography.
A 0.2 V, 23 nW CMOS Temperature Sensor for Ultra-Low-Power IoT Applications
Authors: Akella Kamakshi Divya , Shrivastava Aatmesh , Calhoun Benton
Published: June 2016

We propose a fully on-chip CMOS temperature sensor in which a sub-threshold (sub-VT) proportional-to-absolute-temperature (PTAT) current element starves a current-controlled oscillator (CCO). Sub-VT design enables ultra-low-power operation of this temperature sensor. However, such circuits are highly sensitive to process variations, thereby causing varying circuit currents from die to die. We propose a bit-weighted current mirror (BWCM) architecture to resist the effect of process-induced variation in the PTAT current. The analog core constituting the PTAT, the CCO, and the BWCM is operational down to 0.2 V supply voltage. A digital block operational at 0.5 V converts the temperature information into a digital code that can be processed and used by other components in a system-on-chip (SoC). The proposed temperature sensor system also supports resolution-power trade-off for Internet-of-things (IoT) applications with different sampling rates and energy needs. The system power consumption is 23 nW and the maximum temperature inaccuracy is +1.5/−1.7 °C from 0 °C to 100 °C with a two-point calibration. The temperature sensor system was designed in a 130 nm CMOS technology and its total area is 250 × 250 μm2.
The Proportionality and Solidarity Principles and Their Impact on Privacy Laws in German Jurisprudence
Authors: Schmidt Klaus , Laje Alejandro
Published: June 2016

Privacy laws and the use of information technology that guarantee confidentiality and information integrity are components of an individual’s rights in German jurisprudence. The protection of a person’s identity, information, ideas, feelings, emotions and particularly the way to communicate them is considered essential to human dignity. Extensive studies in these areas has made this protection a central pillar of law-related research in Germany.
Z-Damper: A New Paradigm for Attenuation of Vibrations
Authors: Pérez-Díaz José , Valiente-Blanco Ignacio , Cristache Cristian
Published: June 2016

Magnetic linear gear provides a new and unique opportunity for coupling mechanical impedances and optimizing vibration damping. In the present paper a new magneto-mechanical vibration damper (the so-called Z-damper) is described. Its expected theoretical dynamic behavior shows a particularly high damping capability, a low frequency, as well as an optimal behavior for high frequencies.
Microbiome, Metabolome and Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Ahmed Ishfaq , Roy Badal , Khan Salman , Septer Seth , Umar Shahid
Published: June 2016

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is a multifactorial disorder that conceptually occurs as a result of altered immune responses to commensal and/or pathogenic gut microbes in individuals most susceptible to the disease. During Crohn’s Disease (CD) or Ulcerative Colitis (UC), two components of the human IBD, distinct stages define the disease onset, severity, progression and remission. Epigenetic, environmental (microbiome, metabolome) and nutritional factors are important in IBD pathogenesis. While the dysbiotic microbiota has been proposed to play a role in disease pathogenesis, the data on IBD and diet are still less convincing. Nonetheless, studies are ongoing to examine the effect of pre/probiotics and/or FODMAP reduced diets on both the gut microbiome and its metabolome in an effort to define the healthy diet in patients with IBD. Knowledge of a unique metabolomic fingerprint in IBD could be useful for diagnosis, treatment and detection of disease pathogenesis.
Hospital and Community Pharmacists’ Perceptions of Which Competences Are Important for Their Practice
Authors: Atkinson Jeffrey , Sánchez Pozo Antonio , Rekkas Dimitrios , Volmer Daisy , Hirvonen Jouni , Bozic Borut , Skowron Agnieska , Mircioiu Constantin , Sandulovici Roxana , Marcincal Annie , Koster Andries , Wilson Keith , Van Schravendijk Chris , Frontini Roberto , Price Richard , Bates Ian , De Paepe Kristien
Published: June 2016

The objective of the PHAR-QA (Quality assurance in European pharmacy education and training) project was to investigate how competence-based learning could be applied to a healthcare, sectoral profession such as pharmacy. This is the first study on evaluation of competences from the pharmacists’ perspective using an improved Delphi method with a large number of respondents from all over Europe. This paper looks at the way in which hospital pharmacists rank the fundamental competences for pharmacy practice. European hospital pharmacists (n = 152) ranked 68 competences for pharmacy practice of two types (personal and patient care), arranged into 13 clusters. Results were compared to those obtained from community pharmacists (n = 258). Generally, hospital and community pharmacists rank competences in a similar way. Nevertheless, differences can be detected. The higher focus of hospital pharmacists on knowledge of the different areas of science as well as on laboratory tests reflects the idea of a hospital pharmacy specialisation. The difference is also visible in the field of drug production. This is a necessary competence in hospitals with requests for drugs for rare diseases, as well as paediatric and oncologic drugs. Hospital pharmacists give entrepreneurship a lower score, but cost-effectiveness a higher one than community pharmacists. This reflects the reality of pharmacy practice where community pharmacists have to act as entrepreneurs, and hospital pharmacists are managers staying within drug budgets. The results are discussed in the light of a “hospital pharmacy” specialisation.
Effective Linewidth of Semiconductor Lasers for Coherent Optical Data Links
Authors: Iglesias Olmedo Miguel , Pang Xiaodan , Schatz Richard , Ozolins Oskars , Louchet Hadrien , Zibar Darko , Jacobsen Gunnar , Tafur Monroy Idelfonso , Popov Sergei
Published: June 2016

We discuss the implications of using monolithically integrated semiconductor lasers in high capacity optical coherent links suitable for metro applications, where the integration capabilities of semiconductor lasers make them an attractive candidate to reduce transceiver cost. By investigating semiconductor laser frequency noise profiles we show that carrier induced frequency noise plays an important role in system performance. We point out that, when such lasers are employed, the commonly used laser linewidth fails to estimate system performance, and we propose an alternative figure of merit that we name “Effective Linewidth”. We derive this figure of merit analytically, explore it by numerical simulations and experimentally validate our results by transmitting a 28 Gbaud DP-16QAM over an optical link. Our investigations cover the use of semiconductor lasers both in the transmitter side and as a local oscillator at the receiver. The obtained results show that our proposed “effective linewidth” is easy to measure and accounts for frequency noise more accurately, and hence the penalties associated to phase noise in the received signal.
Design and Application of Wuhan Ionospheric Oblique Backscattering Sounding System with the Addition of an Antenna Array (WIOBSS-AA)
Authors: Cui Xiao , Chen Gang , Wang Jin , Song Huan , Gong Wanlin
Published: June 2016

The Wuhan Ionospheric Oblique Backscattering Sounding System with the addition of an antenna array (WIOBSS-AA) is the newest member of the WIOBSS family. It is a multi-channel radio system using phased-array antenna technology. The transmitting part of this radio system applies an array composed of five log-periodic antennas to form five beams that span an area to the northwest of the radar site. The hardware and the antenna array of the first multi-channel ionosonde in the WIOBSS family are introduced in detail in this paper. An ionospheric detection experiment was carried out in Chongyang, Hubei province, China on 16 March 2015 to examine the performance of WIOBSS-AA. The radio system demonstrated its ability to obtain ionospheric electron density information over a wide area. The observations indicate that during the experiment, the monitored large-area ionospheric F2-layer was calm and electron density increased with decreasing latitude.
Evaluation of Combined Heat and Power (CHP) Systems Using Fuzzy Shannon Entropy and Fuzzy TOPSIS
Authors: Cavallaro Fausto , Zavadskas Edmundas , Raslanas Saulius
Published: June 2016

Combined heat and power (CHP) or cogeneration can play a strategic role in addressing environmental issues and climate change. CHP systems require less fuel than separate heat and power systems in order to produce the same amount of energy saving primary energy, improving the security of the supply. Because less fuel is combusted, greenhouse gas emissions and other air pollutants are reduced. If we are to consider the CHP system as “sustainable”, we must include in its assessment not only energetic performance but also environmental and economic aspects, presenting a multicriteria issue. The purpose of the paper is to apply a fuzzy multicriteria methodology to the assessment of five CHP commercial technologies. Specifically, the combination of the fuzzy Shannon’s entropy and the fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) approach will be tested for this purpose. Shannon’s entropy concept, using interval data such as the α-cut, is a particularly suitable technique for assigning weights to criteria—it does not require a decision-making (DM) to assign a weight to the criteria. To rank the proposed alternatives, a fuzzy TOPSIS method has been applied. It is based on the principle that the chosen alternative should be as close as possible to the positive ideal solution and be as far as possible from the negative ideal solution. The proposed approach provides a useful technical–scientific decision-making tool that can effectively support, in a consistent and transparent way, the assessment of various CHP technologies from a sustainable point of view.
Performance of Modular Prefabricated Architecture: Case Study-Based Review and Future Pathways
Authors: Boafo Fred , Kim Jin-Hee , Kim Jun-Tae
Published: June 2016

Even though tightened building energy efficiency standards are implemented periodically in many countries, existing buildings continually consume a momentous quota of the total primary energy. Energy efficiency solutions range from material components to bulk systems. A technique of building construction, referred to as prefabricated architecture (prefab), is increasing in reputation. Prefab encompasses the offsite fabrication of building components to a greater degree of finish as bulk building structures and systems, and their assembly on-site. In this context, prefab improves the speed of construction, quality of architecture, efficiency of materials, and worker safety, while limiting environmental impacts of construction, as compared to conventional site-built construction practices. Quite recently, a 57 story skyscraper was built in 19 days using prefabricated modules. From the building physics point of view, the bulk systems and tighter integration method of prefab minimizes thermal bridges. This study seeks to clearly characterize the levels of prefab and to investigate the performance of modular prefab; considering acoustic constrain, seismic resistance, thermal behavior, energy consumption, and life cycle analysis of existing prefab cases and, thus, provides a dynamic case study-based review. Generally, prefab can be categorized into components, panels (2D), modules (3D), hybrids, and unitized whole buildings. On average, greenhouse gas emissions from conventional construction were higher than for modular construction, not discounting some individual discrepancies. Few studies have focused on monitored data on prefab and occupants’ comfort but additional studies are required to understand the public’s perception of the technology. The scope of the work examined will be of interest to building engineers, manufacturers, and energy experts, as well as serve as a foundational reference for future study.
Evaluation of Perfluorohexyloctane/Polydimethylsiloxane for Pancreas Preservation for Clinical Islet Isolation and Transplantation
Authors: Ståhle Magnus , Foss Aksel , Gustafsson Bengt , Lempinen Marko , Lundgren Torbjörn , Rafael Ehab , Tufveson Gunnar , Theisinger Bastian , Brandhorst Daniel , Korsgren Olle , Friberg Andrew
Published: June 2016

This study aimed to evaluate a 50:50 mix of perfluorohexyloctane/polydimethylsiloxane 5 (F6H8S5) preservation of pancreases in a clinical setting compared with standard solutions for 1) cold ischemia time (CIT) <10 h and 2) an extended CIT >20 h. Procured clinical-grade pancreases were shipped in either F6H8S5 or in standard preservation solutions, that is, University of Wisconsin (UW) or Custodiol. F6H5S5 was preoxygenated for at least 15 min. Included clinical-grade pancreases were procured in UW or Custodiol. Upon arrival at the islet isolation laboratory, the duodenum was removed followed by rough trimming while F6H8S5 was oxygenated for 15-20 min. Trimmed pancreases were immersed into oxygenated F6H8S5 and stored at 4°C overnight followed by subsequent islet isolation. Pancreas preservation using F6H8S5 proved as effective as UW and Custadiol when used within CIT up to 10 h, in terms of both isolation outcome and islet functionality. Preservation in F6H8S5 of pancreases with extended CIT gave results similar to controls with CIT <10 h for both isolated islet functionality and isolation outcome. This study of clinically obtained pancreases indicates a clear benefit of using F6H8S5 on pancreases with extended CIT as it seems to allow extended cold ischemic time without affecting islet function and islet numbers.
Expansion of Hair Follicle Stem Cells Sticking to Isolated Sebaceous Glands to Generate in Vivo Epidermal Structures
Authors: Zhang Huishan , Zhao Huashan , Qiao Jingqiao , Zhang Shoubing , Liu Shuang , Li Na , Lei Xiaohua , Ning Lina , Cao Yujing , Duan Enkui
Published: June 2016

Hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) are considered one of the useful donor cell types for skin regenerative medicine owing to their robust proliferative capacity and multipotency. However, methods for easily and effectively obtaining HFSCs from a limited skin biopsy are still lacking. Here we report a novel approach for obtaining a subpopulation of HFSCs from a small skin sample from the rat tail, which uses the sebaceous glands (SGs) to capture the adjacent HFSCs. By means of organ culture, keratinocytes were expanded from the detached SGs, which also included adherent HFSCs from the hair follicle that could be passaged at the single-cell level. These SG-captured keratinocytes strongly expressed the basal layer markers K14, integrin α6, and p63; the bulge stem cell marker K15; and the upper isthmus stem cell marker Plet1. Furthermore, we reconstituted new epidermis, hair follicles, and SGs from the SG-captured keratinocytes using an easily operated, modified skin reconstitution assay based on silicone gel sheeting. This study suggests that the SGs could be an accessible capturer to harvest the adjacent HFSC subpopulation, particularly when the donor tissue is limited.
Alloimmune Monitoring after Islet Transplantation: A Prospective Multicenter Assessment of 25 Recipients
Authors: Delaune Vaihere , Toso Christian , Benhamou Pierre-Yves , Wojtusciszyn Anne , Kessler Laurence , Slits Florence , Demuylder-Mischler Sandrine , Pernin Nadine , Lablanche Sandrine , Orci Lorenzo A. , Oldani Graziano , Morel Philippe , Berney Thierry , Lacotte Stéphanie
Published: June 2016

Islet transplantation is an effective treatment for selected patients with type 1 diabetes. However, an accurate test still lacks for the early detection of graft rejection. Blood samples were prospectively collected in four university centers (Geneva, Grenoble, Montpellier, and Strasbourg). Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were stimulated with donor splenocytes in the presence of interleukin-2. After 24 h of incubation, interferon-γ (IFN-γ) ELISpot analysis was performed. After a total of 5 days of incubation, cell proliferation was assessed by fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) analysis for Ki-67. Immunological events were correlated with adverse metabolic events determined by loss of ≥1 point of β-score and/or an increased insulin intake ≥10%. Twenty-five patients were analyzed; 14 were recipients of islets alone, and 11 combined with kidney. Overall, 76% (19/25) reached insulin independence at one point during a mean follow-up of 30.7 months. IFN-γ ELISpot showed no detectable correlation with adverse metabolic events [area under the curve (AUC) = 0.57]. Similarly, cell proliferation analysis showed no detectable correlation with adverse metabolic events (CD3+/ CD4+ AUC = 0.54; CD3+/CD8+ AUC = 0.55; CD3-/CD56+ AUC = 0.50). CD3-/CD56+ cell proliferation was significantly higher in patients with combined kidney transplantation versus islet alone (6 months, p = 0.010; 12 months, p = 0.016; and 24 months, p = 0.018). Donor antigen-stimulated IFN-γ production and cell proliferation do not predict adverse metabolic events after islet transplantation. This suggests that the volume of transplanted islets is too small to produce a detectable systemic immune response and/or that alloimmune rejection is not the sole reason for the loss of islet graft function.
Myeloid Mixed Lineage Kinase 3 Contributes to Chronic Ethanol-Induced Inflammation and Hepatocyte Injury in Mice
Authors: McCullough Rebecca L. , Saikia Paramananda , Pollard Katherine A. , McMullen Megan R. , Nagy Laura E. , Roychowdhury Sanjoy
Published: June 2016

Proinflammatory activity of hepatic macrophages plays a key role during progression of alcoholic liver disease (ALD). Since mixed lineage kinase 3 (MLK3)-dependent phosphorylation of JNK is involved in the activation of macrophages, we tested the hypothesis that myeloid MLK3 contributes
to chronic ethanol-induced inflammatory responses in liver, leading to hepatocyte injury and cell death. Primary cultures of Kupffer cells, as well in vivo chronic ethanol feeding, were used to interrogate the role of MLK3 in the progression of liver injury. Phosphorylation of MLK3 was increased
in primary cultures of Kupffer cells isolated from ethanol-fed rats compared to cells from pair-fed rats. Kupffer cells from ethanol-fed rats were more sensitive to LPS-stimulated cytokine production; this sensitization was normalized by pharmacological inhibition of MLK3. Chronic ethanol
feeding to mice increased MLK3 phosphorylation robustly in F4/80+ Kupffer cells, as well as in isolated nonparenchymal cells. MLK3−/− mice were protected from chronic ethanol-induced phosphorylation of MLK3 and JNK, as well as multiple indicators of liver
injury, including increased ALT/AST, inflammatory cytokines, and induction of RIP3. However, ethanol-induced steatosis and hepatocyte apoptosis were not affected by MLK3. Finally, chimeric mice lacking MLK3 only in myeloid cells were also protected from chronic ethanol-induced phosphorylation
of JNK, expression of inflammatory cytokines, and increased ALT/AST. MLK3 expression in myeloid cells contributes to phosphorylation of JNK, increased cytokine production, and hepatocyte injury in response to chronic ethanol. Our data suggest that myeloid MLK3 could be targeted for developing potential therapeutic strategies to suppress liver injury in ALD patients.
Tequila! Social Control of Guest Movement by Live Music Performance on Cruise Ships
Authors: Cashman David
Published: June 2016

Live musical performance forms the core of the cruise ship entertainment product, contributing to the constructed cruise experience. However, unlike much of the cruise experience, musical performance does not directly generate income. Such performances instead act as semiotic guides
informing them, for example, that the afternoon may be spent lazing by the pool, or that evenings are constructed as high-class theatrical events, or as party time in the disco. Further, such musical performances encourage guests to attend spaces that generate income (such as bars, lido deck,
and casinos) and dissuade them from attending spaces where income is unlikely to be generated (such as their cabin). This research considers the implementation of musical performances on cruise ships using two data sources. Qualitative data is drawn from ship programs describing the actual
placement of music. Quantitative data is drawn from interviews with industry personnel describing the intentions of music placement. It finds that periods when guests are on board, such as evenings and sea days, engenders most of the musical performance. This produces revenue that reverts
to the ship. Certain genres occur at different times on different days, such as Caribbean/Latin American-themed music occurring on sea days, or cocktail piano occurring in the evening, further acting as semiotic guides. This constructed artistic product attracts people to undertake a cruise,
makes a cruise memorable, and informs their experience of the cruise ship tourism product.
Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes: How a Cruise May Benefit Passengers' Health and Relationships
Authors: Durko Angela , Petrick James
Published: June 2016

Emerging research has revealed the importance of the benefits to travel, beyond that of a simple vacation getaway. Because the US remains one of the few developed countries without a formal vacation policy for working adults, research investigating the overall benefits of travel, from
health to relationship and life satisfaction benefits, may serve as the justification needed to become more accepting using and granting vacation days. The current study utilized a post hoc pretest approach to survey 548 passengers at the end of a week-long Caribbean cruise to compare their
perceived stress levels, overall health conditions, and relationship satisfaction pre- and postvacation. Additionally, passengers' repurchase and word-of-mouth (WOM) intentions, vacation satisfaction, and perceptions of value were investigated. The study showed positive changes in levels of
stress, health, and relationship satisfaction following the week-long cruise. Reduction of stress for an individual was shown to be the most significant predictor of intention to cruise with the same cruise line again and the best indication of positive WOM following the cruise. Self-reported
improvements in overall health and stress levels after the cruise were positive and significant indicators of an individual's perception of the value of the vacation. Finally, improvements in stress and relationship satisfaction were found positive significant predictors of overall cruise
satisfaction. Managerial implications and suggestions for future research are provided.
Evaluation of Loudspeaker-Based Virtual Sound Environments for Testing Directional Hearing Aids
Authors: Oreinos Chris , Buchholz Jörg M.
Published: June 2016

Background:Assessments of hearing aid (HA) benefits in the laboratory often do not accurately reflect real-life experience. This may be improved by employing loudspeaker-based virtual sound environments (VSEs) that provide more realistic acoustic scenarios. It is unclear how
far the limited accuracy of these VSEs influences measures of subjective performance.Purpose:Verify two common methods for creating VSEs that are to be used for assessing HA outcomes.Research Design:A cocktail-party scene was created inside a meeting room and then reproduced
with a 41-channel loudspeaker array inside an anechoic chamber. The reproduced scenes were created either by using room acoustic modeling techniques or microphone array recordings.Study Sample:Participants were 18 listeners with a symmetrical, sloping, mild-to-moderate hearing loss,
aged between 66 and 78 yr (mean = 73.8 yr).Data Collection and Analysis:The accuracy of the two VSEs was assessed by comparing the subjective performance measured with two-directional HA algorithms inside all three acoustic environments. The performance was evaluated by using a speech
intelligibility test and an acceptable noise level task.Results:The general behavior of the subjective performance seen in the real environment was preserved in the two VSEs for both directional HA algorithms. However, the estimated directional benefits were slightly reduced in the
model-based VSE, and further reduced in the recording-based VSE.Conclusions:It can be concluded that the considered VSEs can be used for testing directional HAs, but the provided sensitivity is reduced when compared to a real environment. This can result in an underestimation of the
provided directional benefit. However, this minor limitation may be easily outweighed by the high realism of the acoustic scenes that these VSEs can generate, which may result in HA outcome measures with a significantly higher ecological relevance than provided by measures commonly performed
in the laboratory or clinic.
UNCERTAINTIES IN GALACTIC CHEMICAL EVOLUTION MODELS
Authors: Côté Benoit , Ritter Christian , O’Shea Brian W. , Herwig Falk , Pignatari Marco , Jones Samuel , Fryer Chris L.
Published: June 2016

We use a simple one-zone galactic chemical evolution model to quantify the uncertainties generated by the input parameters in numerical predictions for a galaxy with properties similar to those of the Milky Way. We compiled several studies from the literature to gather the current constraints for our simulations regarding the typical value and uncertainty of the following seven basic parameters: the lower and upper mass limits of the stellar initial mass function (IMF), the slope of the high-mass end of the stellar IMF, the slope of the delay-time distribution function of Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia), the number of SNe Ia per M
⊙ formed, the total stellar mass formed, and the final mass of gas. We derived a probability distribution function to express the range of likely values for every parameter, which were then included in a Monte Carlo code to run several hundred simulations with randomly selected input parameters. This approach enables us to analyze the predicted chemical evolution of 16 elements in a statistical manner by identifying the most probable solutions, along with their 68% and 95% confidence levels. Our results show that the overall uncertainties are shaped by several input parameters that individually contribute at different metallicities, and thus at different galactic ages. The level of uncertainty then depends on the metallicity and is different from one element to another. Among the seven input parameters considered in this work, the slope of the IMF and the number of SNe Ia are currently the two main sources of uncertainty. The thicknesses of the uncertainty bands bounded by the 68% and 95% confidence levels are generally within 0.3 and 0.6 dex, respectively. When looking at the evolution of individual elements as a function of galactic age instead of metallicity, those same thicknesses range from 0.1 to 0.6 dex for the 68% confidence levels and from 0.3 to 1.0 dex for the 95% confidence levels. The uncertainty in our chemical evolution model does not include uncertainties relating to stellar yields, star formation and merger histories, and modeling assumptions.
Infracadres et métacadres sociaux
Authors: Chapelier Jean-Bernard
Published: June 2016

À partir de la définition des métacadres, il est étudié, au sein des groupes d’association libre pour adolescents, comment le recours aux métacadres sociaux et groupaux cherche à redéfinir une continuité spatio-temporelle pour compenser la fragilité des autres constantes mises à mal à l’adolescence.