bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency distribution-aware network based on discrete cosine transformation (DCT) for remote sensing image super resolution
Authors: Li Yunsong , Yuan Debao
Published: September 2024

Single-image super-resolution technology based on deep learning is widely used in remote sensing. The non-local feature reflects the correlation information between different regions. Most neural networks extract various non-local information of images in the spatial domain but ignore the similarity characteristics of frequency distribution, which limits the performance of the algorithm. To solve this problem, we propose a frequency distribution aware network based on discrete cosine transformation for remote sensing image super-resolution. This network first proposes a frequency-aware module. This module can effectively extract the similarity characteristics of the frequency distribution between different regions by rearranging the frequency feature matrix of the image. A global frequency feature fusion module is also proposed. It can extract the non-local information of feature maps at different scales in the frequency domain with little computational cost. The experiments were on two commonly-used remote sensing datasets. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can effectively complete image reconstruction and performs better than some advanced super-resolution algorithms. The code is available at https://github.com/Liyszepc/FDANet.
Pesquisa contábil: forjando o futuro da profissão contábil
Authors: Corrêa Solange Rodrigues dos Santos , Maia Junior Almeciano José , Ribeiro Rozilton Sales , Coelho Núbia Aparecida Pinto , Cruz Gustavo da
Published: September 2024

Este artigo investiga a evolução da Ciência Contábil diante dos desafios do desenvolvimento sustentável e da adoção de tecnologias emergentes, como big data e inteligência artificial. Utilizando uma metodologia bibliográfica, analisou-se como os cursos de ciências contábeis têm se transformado e o impacto dessas inovações tecnológicas nas práticas contábeis. As mudanças observadas estão alinhadas com as crescentes demandas por práticas empresariais responsáveis, influenciando significativamente o desenvolvimento econômico e social. O estudo destaca tendências emergentes que atendem às exigências de transparência, eficiência e responsabilidade social na contabilidade. Estas inovações não apenas aprimoram a precisão e a eficiência dos processos contábeis, mas também promovem a adoção de práticas sustentáveis dentro do setor. A pesquisa contínua em Ciência Contábil é enfatizada como essencial para o avanço da disciplina, garantindo que os contabilistas estejam bem equipados para enfrentar desafios futuros e contribuir para um futuro mais sustentável. Conclui-se que uma abordagem proativa na educação e na prática contábil é crucial para navegar nas complexidades do cenário econômico e social contemporâneo. Isso envolve promover um diálogo constante entre teoria e prática para manter a relevância e eficácia da profissão. Portanto, o investimento contínuo em pesquisa é vital para a evolução da contabilidade, moldando práticas de negócios éticas e sustentáveis e preparando profissionais para serem agentes de mudança positiva na sociedade. A pesquisa em contabilidade se estabelece como um pilar fundamental para a contribuição efetiva da contabilidade ao bem-estar social e econômico global.
Home automation management using a smartphone
Authors: Batista Juliana Davel , Fernandes Raianny Souza , Mestria Mário
Published: September 2024

Communication involves examining the development of the project as a process and predicting future maintenances. Beyond, it is necessary verify the future challenges facing new projects. In engineering projects, the communication is an important phase. Iconic models, along with diagrams, mathematical, and graphical representations, are widely used forms of communication. In communication, the scale model is an iconic model that is utilized to create a unique view of the final project. Lighting control and air conditioning can be controlled by intelligent automation systems, which can be great allies in energy efficiency. It highlights that the cost of electric energy is been lowered through building projects in various countries. By focusing on communication in projects, reducing electricity costs, intelligent automation, and new technologies, we have developed a prototype for home automation being managed using a smartphone. Engineers can benefit from this prototype in designing home automation by receiving feedback on the construction process and predicting costs. The prototype is a tool for introducing this automation system to buyers, employees, administrators, designers, and architects, and it can refine future actions.
Pre-Hospital Ibuprofen Administration among Children in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Wonodi Woroma , West Boma Awoala
Published: September 2024

Background: Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is used to relieve pain, fever,
and inflammation and is often procured over the counter and given to children before presentation at the hospital.
Objective of the Study: To determine the prevalence of pre-hospital use of ibuprofen, preferred formulation, appropriateness of dosing and factors associated with its use.
Methodology: An observational cross sectional study involving 401 caregiver/child pair seen at the Paediatric clinic of the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital over six months. Data on demography, clinical symptoms and weights of the children were obtained using semi-structured questionnaires. Informed consent was obtained from caregivers.
Results: A total of 401 caregivers/child pairs participated in the research with a male predominance. The average age of the children was 28.26±3.80 months. Most of the parents were aged 30-40 years, traders/business people with tertiary level of education. Thirty nine children (9.7%) received ibrofen before coming to the hospital. The most common reasons for administering ibuprofen were fever, cough and body pain. Syrup formulation was preferred, mostly given twice daily and for less than seven days. The most common reason for choice of formulation was the age of the child. Majority of the parents gave the medication based on past experiences. About 83% of parents gave an appropriate dose while 13% gave an overdose to their children.
Conclusion: Pre-hospital ibuprofen self-medication is common with syrup formulation being the most common form given. There was a high abuse of ibuprofen use thus education of the populace is advocated.
Effect of Nitrogen and Phosphorus on Nutrient Use Efficiency of Irrigated Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) under Scarce Rainfall Zone of Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: Bhanusri K. , Reddy M. Srinivasa , Sowmya N.
Published: September 2024

A field experiment was carried out on sandy loam soils at Agricultural College, Mahanandi during rabi season of 2021-22 in order to study the yield, nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency of chickpea under varied levels of fertilizer application. The experimental field was laid out in a randomized block design with 10 treatments, each replicated three times. Nitrogen was applied through urea in two halves, one at sowing and one at 30 days after sowing (DAS). Complete dose of single super phosphate was applied through single super phosphate as a basal in all the 3 levels @ 50, 60 and 70 kg P2O5 ha-1. The treatment with application of 20 kg N basal + 20 kg N split + 60 kg P2O5 basal (T9) resulted in significantly higher values of seed yield (1346 kg ha-1), harvest index (49.2), nutrient uptake (N, P and K uptake) and phosphorus use efficiency (22.4%). Significantly higher nitrogen use efficiency with 10 kg N basal + 10 kg N split + 70 kg P2O5 basal (T4) and with application of 20 kg N basal + 20 kg N split + 70 kg P2O5 basal (T10) resulted higher haulm yield (1352 kg ha-1). Harvest index and post-harvest soil nutrient status (available N, P2O5 and K2O) were not significantly affected by levels of fertilizer application. The present investigation concluded that 20 kg N basal + 20 kg N split + 60 kg P2O5 basal (T9) was the optimum dose of fertilizer for better performance of chickpea in scarce rainfall zone of Andhra Pradesh.
Long-term Variations in Albedo, Solar Flux, and Climatic Parameters in Burkina Faso (1984-2022)
Authors: Koala Somaïla , Kabore M’Bi , Zoundi Christian , Ki Issamaïl , Sawadogo Yacouba , Zerbo Jean Louis
Published: September 2024

In this work, we examined the effects of albedo and solar flux on climate parameters in Burkina Faso (1984-2022). We found that albedo amplitudes in Dori region are higher than those in Ouagadougou, and those in Ouagadougou are higher than those in Bobo Dioulasso. We also observed a continuous decrease in albedo, leading to an increase in temperature, humidity, and precipitation. These climatic conditions may increase the risks of prolonged droughts and floods. This drop in albedo is linked to solar activity, growing urbanization, deforestation and global climate change. Low solar activity and solar high speed flows caused by corotative interactions regions lead to heavy precipitation. The use of reflective construction materials, i.e. high albedo, in urban infrastructure and stopping the transformation of forests into cultivable land can contribute to mitigating the diminution in albedo and consequently global warming.
Evaluating marginal likelihood with thermodynamic integration method and comparison with several other numerical methods
Authors: Liu Peigui , Elshall Ahmed S. , Ye Ming , Beerli Peter , Zeng Xiankui , Lu Dan , Tao Yuezan
Published: January 2016

Evaluating marginal likelihood is the most critical and computationally expensive task, when conducting Bayesian model averaging to quantify parametric and model uncertainties. The evaluation is commonly done by using Laplace approximations to evaluate semianalytical expressions of the marginal likelihood or by using Monte Carlo (MC) methods to evaluate arithmetic or harmonic mean of a joint likelihood function. This study introduces a new MC method, i.e., thermodynamic integration, which has not been attempted in environmental modeling. Instead of using samples only from prior parameter space (as in arithmetic mean evaluation) or posterior parameter space (as in harmonic mean evaluation), the thermodynamic integration method uses samples generated gradually from the prior to posterior parameter space. This is done through a path sampling that conducts Markov chain Monte Carlo simulation with different power coefficient values applied to the joint likelihood function. The thermodynamic integration method is evaluated using three analytical functions by comparing the method with two variants of the Laplace approximation method and three MC methods, including the nested sampling method that is recently introduced into environmental modeling. The thermodynamic integration method outperforms the other methods in terms of their accuracy, convergence, and consistency. The thermodynamic integration method is also applied to a synthetic case of groundwater modeling with four alternative models. The application shows that model probabilities obtained using the thermodynamic integration method improves predictive performance of Bayesian model averaging. The thermodynamic integration method is mathematically rigorous, and its MC implementation is computationally general for a wide range of environmental problems.
Multidecadal variations in Southern Hemisphere atmospheric 14C: Evidence against a Southern Ocean sink at the end of the Little Ice Age CO2 anomaly
Authors: Turney Chris S. M. , Palmer Jonathan , Hogg Alan , Fogwill Christopher J. , Jones Richard T. , Bronk Ramsey Christopher , Fenwick Pavla , Grierson Pauline , Wilmshurst Janet , O'Donnell Alison , Thomas Zoë A. , Lipson Mathew
Published: January 2016

Northern Hemisphere‐wide cooling during the Little Ice Age (LIA; 1650–1775 Common Era, C.E.) was associated with a ~5 ppmv decrease in atmospheric carbon dioxide. Changes in terrestrial and ocean carbon reservoirs have been postulated as possible drivers of this relatively large shift in atmospheric CO2, potentially providing insights into the mechanisms and sensitivity of the global carbon cycle. Here we report decadally resolved radiocarbon (14C) levels in a network of tree‐ring series spanning 1700–1950 C.E. located along the northern boundary of, and within, the Southern Ocean. We observe regional dilutions in atmospheric radiocarbon (relative to the Northern Hemisphere) associated with upwelling of 14CO2‐depleted abyssal waters. We find the interhemispheric 14C offset approaches zero during increasing global atmospheric CO2 at the end of the LIA, with reduced ventilation in the Southern Ocean and a Northern Hemisphere source of old carbon (most probably originating from deep Arctic peat layers). The coincidence of the atmospheric CO2 increase and reduction in the interhemispheric 14C offset imply a common climate control. Possible mechanisms of synchronous change in the high latitudes of both hemispheres are discussed.
Longitudinal frequency variation of long‐lasting EMIC Pc1‐Pc2 waves localized in the inner magnetosphere
Authors: Kim K.‐H. , Shiokawa K. , Mann I. R. , Park J.‐S. , Kwon H.‐J. , Hyun K. , Jin H. , Connors M.
Published: January 2016

Long‐lasting (> 20 h) electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) Pc1‐Pc2 waves were observed by the Athabasca (L =∼ 4.6) induction magnetometer and Canadian Array for Realtime Investigations of Magnetic Activity (L =∼ 4–6) fluxgate magnetometers on 5 April 2007. These waves showed a systematic frequency change with local time, the minimum frequency near dusk, and the maximum frequency near dawn. Assuming the plasmapause as a potential source region of the waves, we estimated the plasmapause location from localized proton enhancement (LPE) events observed at NOAA‐Polar Orbiting Environmental Satellites and METOP‐2 satellites. We found that the longitudinal frequency variation of EMIC waves has a clear correlation with the estimated plasmapause location and that the waves are in the frequency band between the equatorial helium and oxygen gyrofrequencies at the estimated plasmapause. With our analysis results we suggest that the LPE events are caused by wave‐particle interaction with the helium band EMIC waves generated near the plasmapause.
Mapping magnetic field lines between the Sun and Earth
Authors: Li B. , Cairns Iver H. , Gosling J. T. , Steward G. , Francis M. , Neudegg D. , Schulte in den Bäumen H. , Player P. R. , Milne A. R.
Published: January 2016

Magnetic field topologies between the Sun and Earth are important for the connectivity to Earth of solar suprathermal particles, e.g., solar energetic particles and beam electrons in type III solar radio bursts. An approach is developed for mapping large‐scale magnetic field lines near the solar equatorial plane, using near‐Earth observations and a solar wind model with nonzero azimuthal magnetic field at the source surface. Unlike Parker's spiral model, which restricts the in‐ecliptic angle ΦB in the Geocentric Solar Ecliptic coordinates to (90°–180°, 270°–360°) and so is unable to predict field configurations for the other ΦB values frequently observed in the solar wind, our approach can account for all the observed ΦB values. A set of predicted maps shows that near both minimal and maximal solar activity the field lines are typically open and that loops with both ends either connected to or disconnected from the Sun are relatively rare. The open field lines, nonetheless, often do not closely follow the Parker spiral, being less or more tightly wound, or strongly azimuthally or radially oriented, or inverted. The time‐varying classes, e.g., bidirectional electrons, of suprathermal electron pitch angle distributions (PADs) at 1 AU are predicted from the mapped field line configurations and compared with Wind observations for two solar rotations, one each near solar minimum and solar maximum. PAD predictions by our approach agree quantitatively (≈90%) with the PAD observations and outperform (by ≈20%) PAD predictions using Parker's model.
Nearshore sandbar rotation at single‐barred embayed beaches
Authors: Blossier B. , Bryan K. R. , Daly C. J. , Winter C.
Published: January 2016

The location of a shore‐parallel nearshore sandbar derived from 7 years of video imagery data at the single‐barred embayed Tairua Beach (NZ) is investigated to assess the contribution of barline rotation to the overall morphodynamics of sandbars in embayed environments and to characterize the process of rotation in relation to external conditions. Rotation induces cross‐shore barline variations at the embayment extremities on the order of magnitude of those induced by alongshore uniform cross‐shore migration of the bar. Two semiempirical models have been developed to relate the barline cross‐shore migration and rotation to external wave forcing conditions. The rotation model is directly derived from the cross‐shore migration model. Therefore, its formulation advocates for a primary role of cross‐shore processes in the rotation of sandbars at embayed beaches. The orientation evolves toward an equilibrium angle directly related to the alongshore wave energy gradient due to two different mechanisms. Either the bar extremities migrate in opposite directions with no overall cross‐shore bar migration (pivotal rotation) or the rotation relates to an overall migration of the barline which is not uniform along the beach (migration‐driven rotation). Migration and rotation characteristic response times are similar, ranging from 10 to 30 days for mild and energetic wave conditions and above 200 days during very calm conditions or when the bar is located far offshore.
Effects of alongshore morphology on groundwater flow and solute transport in a nearshore aquifer
Authors: Zhang Ying , Li Ling , Erler Dirk V. , Santos Isaac , Lockington David
Published: January 2016

Variations of beach morphology in both the cross‐shore and alongshore directions, associated with tidal creeks, are common at natural coasts, as observed at a field site on the east coast of Rarotonga, Cook Islands. Field investigations and three‐dimensional (3‐D) numerical simulations were conducted to study the nearshore groundwater flow and solute transport in such a system. The results show that the beach morphology, combined with tides, induced a significant alongshore flow and modified local pore water circulation and salt transport in the intertidal zone substantially. The bathymetry and hydraulic head of the creek enabled further and more rapid landward intrusion of seawater along the creek than in the aquifer, which created alongshore hydraulic gradient and solute concentration gradient to drive pore water flow and salt transport in the alongshore direction within the aquifer. The effects of the creek led to the formation of a saltwater plume in groundwater at an intermediate depth between fresher water zones on a cross‐shore transect. The 3‐D pore water flow in the nearshore zone was also complicated by the landward hydraulic head condition, resulting in freshwater drainage across the inland section of the creek while seawater infiltrating the seaward section. These results provided new insights into the complexity, intensity, and time scales of mixing among fresh groundwater, recirculating seawater and creek water in three dimensions. The 3‐D characteristics of nearshore pore water flow and solute transport have important implications for studies of submarine groundwater discharge and associated chemical input to the coastal sea, and for evaluation of the beach habitat conditions.
Analytical solution and computer program (FAST) to estimate fluid fluxes from subsurface temperature profiles
Authors: Kurylyk Barret L. , Irvine Dylan J.
Published: January 2016

This study details the derivation and application of a new analytical solution to the one‐dimensional, transient conduction‐advection equation that is applied to trace vertical subsurface fluid fluxes. The solution employs a flexible initial condition that allows for nonlinear temperature‐depth profiles, providing a key improvement over most previous solutions. The boundary condition is composed of any number of superimposed step changes in surface temperature, and thus it accommodates intermittent warming and cooling periods due to long‐term changes in climate or land cover. The solution is verified using an established numerical model of coupled groundwater flow and heat transport. A new computer program FAST (Flexible Analytical Solution using Temperature) is also presented to facilitate the inversion of this analytical solution to estimate vertical groundwater flow. The program requires surface temperature history (which can be estimated from historic climate data), subsurface thermal properties, a present‐day temperature‐depth profile, and reasonable initial conditions. FAST is written in the Python computing language and can be run using a free graphical user interface. Herein, we demonstrate the utility of the analytical solution and FAST using measured subsurface temperature and climate data from the Sendia Plain, Japan. Results from these illustrative examples highlight the influence of the chosen initial and boundary conditions on estimated vertical flow rates.
Salt water interface in a layered coastal aquifer: The only published analytic solution is in error
Authors: Strack O. D. L.
Published: January 2016

We consider the approach applied by Rumer and Shiau (1968) to interface flow in a layered coastal aquifer. The authors match the boundary conditions along the interfaces between layers of different hydraulic conductivities by changing the vertical scale of the layers, which causes violation of the governing equations. In particular, the mass balance equation is not met in each of the transformed layers.
Light‐Induced Color Change in the Sapphirinid Copepods: Tunable Photonic Crystals
Authors: Gur Dvir , Leshem Ben , Farstey Viviana , Oron Dan , Addadi Lia , Weiner Steve
Published: January 2016

Light‐induced tunable photonic systems are rare in nature, and generally beyond the state‐of‐the‐art in artificial systems. Sapphirinid male copepods produce some of the most spectacular colors in nature. The male coloration, used for communication purposes, is structural and is produced from ordered layers of guanine crystals separated by cytoplasm. It is generally accepted that the colors of the males are related to their location in the epipelagic zone. By combining correlative reflectance and cryoelectron microscopy image analyses, together with optical time lapse recording and transfer matrix modeling, it is shown that male sapphirinids have the remarkable ability to change their reflectance spectrum in response to changes in the light conditions. It is also shown that this color change is achieved by a change in the thickness of the cytoplasm layers that separate the guanine crystals. This change is reversible, and is both intensity and wavelength dependent. This capability provides the male with the ability to efficiently reflect light under certain conditions, while remaining transparent and hence camouflaged under other conditions. These copepods can thus provide inspiration for producing synthetic tunable photonic arrays.
Scalable, Binderless, and Carbonless Hierarchical Ni Nanodendrite Foam Decorated with Hydrous Ruthenium Dioxide for 1.6 V Symmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Chueh , Li Changling , Ahmed Kazi , Wang Wei , Lee Ilkeun , Zaera Francisco , Ozkan Cengiz S. , Ozkan Mihrimah
Published: January 2016

Herein, Ni nanodendrite (ND) with diameter ≈30–100 nm directly synthesized on Ni foam is utilized as an effective support for hydrous RuO2 in symmetric supercapacitors operated at 1.6 V. Highest specific capacitance 678.57 F g−1 can be achieved with energy density 60.32 Wh kg−1. Even at large current density 100 A g−1, high energy density 19.73 Wh kg−1 can still be maintained with power density 40 kW kg−1 owing to the pristine metal nanostructure without any carbon additive and resistive binder. Long lifespan is shown with marginal performance improvement (≈4%) over 10 000 cycles. More importantly, the template‐less and self‐assembled Ni ND synthesis requires only low temperature and eco‐friendly chemicals, and can be simply dip‐coated with RuO2 nanoparticles. All of these render the RuO2‐Ni ND foam readily adapted into mass manufacturing without efforts.
Iodine‐Promoted Domino Reactions of 1‐Cyanocyclopropane 1‐Esters: A Straightforward Approach to Fully Substituted 2‐Aminofurans
Authors: Ye Weijian , Tan Chen , Yao Juan , Xue Shuwen , Li Yang , Wang Cunde
Published: January 2016

A straightforward and efficient iodine‐promoted ring‐opening/cyclization domino reaction of 1‐cyanocyclopropane 1‐esters for the synthesis of fully substituted 2‐aminofurans is reported. This reaction involves the sequential ring‐opening/intramolecular cyclization reaction of 1‐cyanocyclopropane 1‐esters to give the corresponding 2‐amino‐4,5‐dihydrofurans, which were oxidized with I2 and Et3N in refluxing toluene to give the corresponding 2‐amino‐3‐furancarboxylates.

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An Unexpected Construction of 2‐Arylquinolines from N‐Cinnamylanilines through sp3 CH Aerobic Oxidation Induced by a Catalytic Radical Cation Salt
Authors: Liu Fang , Yu Liangliang , Lv Shiwei , Yao Junjun , Liu Jing , Jia Xiaodong
Published: January 2016

An unexpected reaction of cinnamylanilines was achieved through the radical cation salt‐induced aerobic oxidation of sp3 CH bonds, providing a series of 2‐arylquinolines. The mechanistic study shows that the cinnamylaniline was oxidized to an imine, which was attacked by the aniline generated through decomposition of the corresponding imine. After further intramolecular cyclization and aromatization, 2‐arylquinolines were obtained. This reaction provides a new method to construct 2‐arylquinolines from readily accessible starting materials.

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Copper‐Mediated Trifluoromethylthiolation of Heteroaryl Bromides
Authors: Zhang Mengjia , Weng Zhiqiang
Published: January 2016

An efficient protocol for the copper‐mediated trifluoromethylthiolation of heteroaryl bromides has been achieved using the copper complex (bpy)Cu(SCF3) as trifluoromethylthiolating reagent. This procedure provides a straightforward synthetic method for heteroaryl trifluoromethyl sulfides from readily available, simple starting materials. The reaction demonstrates a broad substrate scope and tolerates a wide array of functional groups, including nitrile, ester, chloro, nitro, or methoxy substituents.

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Highly Efficient Materials Assembly Via Electrophoretic Deposition for Electrochemical Energy Conversion and Storage Devices
Authors: Ye Luhan , Wen Kechun , Zhang Zuoxiang , Yang Fei , Liang Yachun , Lv Weiqiang , Lin Yukun , Gu Jianmin , Dickerson James H. , He Weidong
Published: January 2016

Featuring pronounced controllability, versatility, and scalability, electrophoretic deposition (EPD) has been proposed as an efficient method for film assembly and electrode/solid electrolyte fabrication in various energy storage/conversion devices including rechargeable batteries, supercapacitors, and fuel cells. High‐quality electrodes and solid electrolytes have been prepared through EPD and exhibit advantageous performances in comparison with those realized with traditional methods. Recent advances in the application of EPD materials in electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices are summarized. In particular, the parameters that influence the efficiency of an EPD process from colloidal preparation to deposition are evaluated with the aim to provide insightful guidance for realizing high‐performance electrochemical energy conversion materials and devices.
On the determination of the Microchoerus (Omomyidae, Primates) remains from Sant Cugat de Gavadons (Late Eocene, Ebro Basin, NE Spain)
Authors: Minwer‐Barakat Raef , Marigó Judit , Moyà‐Solà Salvador
Published: January 2016

Objectives

The presence of Microchoerus in Sant Cugat de Gavadons (Late Eocene, Ebro Basin, Northeastern Spain) was first noted by M. Crusafont, who described a fragment of maxilla with two teeth that he interpreted as P4 and M1 and referred this specimen to the species Microchoerus ornatus. The objective of this work is to study in detail this fossil and check if the previous taxonomic determination was correct.

Methods

We reexamine the single specimen from Sant Cugat de Gavadons, providing for the first time detailed descriptions, measurements and illustrations. We also compare this fossil with the holotype of Microchoerus ornatus from Mormont Entreroches (Switzerland) and with the type material of all other described species of Microchoerus.

Results

Although the scarcity of material from Sant Cugat de Gavadons and the strong wear of the two available teeth (which in fact correspond to P3 and P4) do not allow a determination at the specific level, it is clear that this form presents notable differences with the type of M. ornatus and must not be referred to this species.

Discussion

Neither the anatomical identification of the two teeth of this maxillary fragment, nor the specific determination of the specimen from Sant Cugat de Gavadons was correct. The ascription of this fossil to Microchoerus ornatus, which represented the only mention of the species in the Iberian Peninsula, is no longer valid. Therefore, the known geographical range of M. ornatus remains restricted to Switzerland. Am J Phys Anthropol 160:162–168, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thermo‐oxidative degradation of additive free polyethylene. Part I. Analysis of chemical modifications at molecular and macromolecular scales
Authors: Da Cruz Manuela , Van Schoors Laetitia , Benzarti Karim , Colin Xavier
Published: January 2016

The effects of thermal oxidation on the molecular and macromolecular structures of additive free PE were investigated between 100 °C and 140 °C in air in order to tentatively establish non‐empirical structure/property relationships. In the first part, the changes in POOH concentration were assessed by three different analytical methods: iodometry, modulated differential scanning calorimetry, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrophotometry after SO2treatment. All these methods provided very similar results until the end of the induction period, after which iodometry overestimated strongly POOH concentration because it titrates also other chemical species formed at high conversion ratios, namely double bonds. In parallel, the changes in carbonyl group concentration were determined by FTIR spectrophotometry after NH3treatment. As the accumulation kinetics of ketones, aldehydes, and carboxylic acids were closely interrelated, the question of their actual formation mechanisms in the current thermal oxidation mechanistic scheme was raised. An alternative reaction pathway was proposed for the bimolecular decomposition of POOH. In the second part, the corresponding changes in weight and number average molecular masses were monitored by high temperature gel permeation chromatography equipped with a triple detection technology. As both quantities decreased dramatically from the beginning of exposure and their ratioMw/Mntends toward the asymptotic value of 2 and it was concluded that a “pure” chain scission process operated. Finally, as the number of chain scissions perfectly correlates, the concentration sum of aldehydes and their oxidation products (i.e., carboxylic acids), it was also concluded that these carbonyl groups result exclusively from the β scission of alkoxy radicals. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci.2016,133, 43287.
Preparation and characterization of epoxy/slag composite for cement slurry applications
Authors: Yu Xiaorong , Chen Dajun
Published: January 2016

In this study, epoxy/slag composites (ESCs) were prepared by using diglycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A epoxy resin, water‐quenched granulated blast furnace slag as filler, phenolic aldehyde amine as hardener, and titanate as coupling agent. The properties of ESC, including chemical structure, thermal stability, wetting properties, and morphological structure, were investigated by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, a contact angle meter, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectrometry. The results show that ESCs possess excellent thermal stability, hydrophilicity, and good compatibility with cement slurry compared to pure epoxy. In addition, the applications of ESC in a cement slurry were also investigated. It was found that the fluidity, free water, fluid loss, and content of Ca(OH)2 decreased, while the compressive strength increased with the incorporation of slag into the epoxy matrix. These features were attributed to the pozzolanic reaction of slag by consumption of Ca(OH)2 to form calcium silicate hydrate (C‐S‐H) gel which contributed more to the compressive strength of set cement. Finally, lightweight cement containing ESCs exhibited high strength without affecting the density of the light cement slurry under curing pressure and at high mixing rate compared with lightweight cement made of floating beads. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43359.
Effects of polyisocyanate on properties and pot life of epoxy resin cross‐linked soybean meal‐based bioadhesive
Authors: Luo Jianlin , Luo Jing , Li Xiaona , Gao Qiang , Li Jianzhang
Published: January 2016

In this study, polyisocyanate (pMDI) was introduced into epoxy resin modified soybean meal‐based bioadhesive to address the issue of low dry bond strength. Specifically, we investigated the effects of adding pMDI in terms of amount and storage time on dry bond strength, water resistance, and pot life of adhesive. Factors examined included shear strength, apparent viscosity, chemical reaction, crystallinity, and morphology of modified adhesives. Results indicated that the dry bond strength and water resistance of the resultant plywood was respectively improved 29.5% and 39.7% by adding 2% pMDI. In addition, the pot life of modified adhesive reached in 4 h. Results also shown that the cross‐linking reactions between epoxy group and carbonyl as well as isocyano and amino increased the cross‐linking density and formed a denser cross‐linking network structure of cured adhesive. The composite cross‐linked soybean meal‐based adhesive is environmental‐friendly and high‐performance, which will promote the industrial application of the soy protein‐based adhesives. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43362.
Passive microrheology for measurement of gelation behavior of a kind of polymer gel P(AM‐AA‐AMPS)
Authors: Yang Hongbin , Kang Wanli , Wu Hairong , Li Zhe , Yu Yang , Lu Yao , Zhang Liming , Wang Manying , He Yuwei
Published: January 2016

One kind of polymer gel P(AM‐AA‐AMPS) was prepared by radical aqueous copolymerization, using acrylamide (AM), acrylic acid (AA) and 1‐acrylanmido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonic acid (AMPS) as monomers, N,N‐methacrylamide (MBA) as crosslinker and ammonium persulfate (APS) as initiator. The microstructure and molecular structure of the polymer gel were characterized by environmental scanning electron microscope (ESEM), infrared spectrometer (IR) and thermal gravity analysis (TGA). Main factors affecting the gelation behavior of P(AM‐AA‐AMPS) were qualitatively and quantitatively studied by multi‐speckle diffusion wave spectroscopy (MS‐DWS) technology, and the elasticity index (EI) and macroscopic viscosity index (MVI) were introduced to evaluate the elasticity and viscosity of the polymer gel. The results show that the synthesized P(AM‐AA‐AMPS) polymer gel has three‐dimensional network structure gel with thermally resistant and salts tolerant groups. The EI and MVI of solution increase abruptly during the gelation time and the two indexes tend to stabilize. Under certain conditions, with the increase of reaction temperature and concentration of monomers and initiator, the gelation time of polymer gel gets shorter and the gel strength increases; with the increase of concentration of crosslinker, the strength of polymer gels increases, while the gelation time remains almost unchanged. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43364.
Curing cycle modification for RTM6 to reduce hydrostatic residual tensile stress in 3D woven composites
Authors: Gross Todd S. , Jafari Hesam , Tsukrov Igor , Bayraktar Harun , Goering Jon
Published: January 2016

Triaxial residual tensile stresses resulting after cooling a 3D woven composite from the curing temperature cause cracking in the resin pockets for weave architectures that have high through‐the‐thickness constraint. We show how curing cycle modifications can reduce the hydrostatic tensile stress generated by thermal mismatch during cooling of Hexcel RTM6 epoxy resin constrained in a quartz tube which simulates extreme constraint in a composite. The modified curing schedule consists of a high temperature cure to just before the glass transition, a lower temperature hold that takes the resin through the glass transition thereby freezing in the zero stress state, followed by high temperature cure to bring the resin to full conversion. We show that this process is sensitive to heating rates and can reduce the zero stress state of non‐toughened RTM6 resin to a temperature similar to a commercial rubber‐toughened resin, Cycom PR520. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43373.
Preparation, dynamic rheological behavior, crystallization, and mechanical properties of inorganic whiskers reinforced polylactic acid/hydroxyapatite nanocomposites
Authors: Liu Zhuo , Chen Yinghong , Ding Weiwei
Published: January 2016

The novel inorganic SiO2–MgO–CaO whiskers (SMCWs) were incorporated into nano hydroxyapatite (HA) contained polylactic acid (PLA) system to prepare the reinforced PLA/HA/SMCWs nanocomposite. Maleic anhydride grafted PLA (PLA‐g‐MAH) was then used to modify the interface between filler and matrix. The morphology, rheological behavior, crystallization, and mechanical property of the prepared nanocomposites were systematically investigated using scanning electronic microscope, dynamic rheometer, differential scanning calorimeter, polarized light microscope, and mechanical test, respectively. The results showed that the introduced PLA‐g‐MAH obviously improves the filler dispersion and the filler–matrix interfacial compatibility. Interestingly, the incorporated whiskers obviously decrease the complex viscosity and hence could significantly improve the processability of system. However, the introduction of PLA‐g‐MAH increases the complex viscosity to a greater extent. In addition, the added whiskers were found to have complicated influences on the PLA crystallization. On one hand, the incorporated whiskers can enhance the melt crystallization capability of PLA macromolecular chains; on the other hand, the introduced whiskers also show the inhibitive effect on the nucleation of PLA polymer chains and the inhibition degree is related to the loading of whiskers. The combination of whiskers and PLA‐g‐MAH could remarkably improve the mechanical performance of PLA/HA nanocomposite. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43381.
Preparation, physical, and mechanical properties of soy protein isolate/guar gum composite films prepared by solution casting
Authors: Sui Chunxia , Zhang Wenzhao , Ye Fei , Liu Xiaoming , Yu Guoping
Published: January 2016

Guar gum (GG) was incorporated into soy protein isolate (SPI) films using a blending solution casting method to form SPI/GG composite films. The effects of SPI and GG contents on the transparency, water susceptibility, mechanical, and gas‐barrier properties of SPI/GG composite films were analyzed. The results showed that SPI/GG composite films with added GG were much more tensile‐resistant, water‐resistant, gas‐barrier properties but less deformable property than SPI control film. The presence of GG also improved film barrier to the light. The analysis results of contact angle measurement, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscope indicated that GG induced increased network compactness of the composite films which resulted from strong intermolecular interactions, such as hydrogen bonding, that existed between SPI and GG. Findings indicate that GG may be used as a natural means to improve specific properties of SPI films. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43382.
Structural, thermal, morphological and dynamic mechanical characteristics of waste‐reinforced polypropylene composites: A novel approach for recycling electronic waste
Authors: Kumar Abhishek , Choudhary Veena , Khanna Rita , Tripathi Sandeep Nath , Ikram‐Ul‐Haq M. , Sahajwalla Veena
Published: January 2016

An in‐depth investigation has been carried toward utilizing polymer‐rich nonmetallic fraction of printed circuit boards (PCBs) as reinforcing fillers in polypropylene (PP) composites. The influence of waste additions (up to 25 wt %) on structural, thermal, morphological, and dynamic mechanical behavior of PP composites was investigated using a range of analytical techniques. The incorporation of PCB waste was found to affect the crystalline morphology resulting in the formation of smaller spherulites. The presence of glass fibers in PCB waste promoted the formation of β‐crystal enhancing the mechanical properties of composites. Thermal analysis showed a maximum increase of ∼15 °C in the crystallization onset temperature (Tco) suggesting the nucleating effect of the filler, a feature also supported by structural investigations. Polarized microscopy revealed a reduction in the spherulite size after 5 wt % PCB waste loading owing to the presence of large number of nucleation sites. The incorporation of waste also increased the thermal stability of composites increasing the final degradation temperature by up to 14 °C. Dynamic mechanical properties of PP/PCB waste composites were determined in the temperature range −20 to 155 °C; a significant increase in the storage modulus further confirmed the reinforcing effect of waste additives. This investigation has shown that the nonmetallic fraction of PCB waste could be used as a cost‐effective reinforcing filler for PP, providing an environmental friendly route to utilize electronic waste in value‐added products. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43389.
A selective impairment in extracting fearful information from another's eyes in Autism
Authors: Song Yongning , Hakoda Yuji , Sang Biao
Published: January 2016

An atypical pattern of facial expression processing in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been discussed in previous studies. In this study, we systematically examined the hypothesis of selective abnormality of gaze pattern of in children with ASD using three emotion judgment “bubble” tasks. In this study, we used a data‐driven driven technique, referred to as “Bubbles” to examine the hypothesis that ASD children will not show a general but rather a selective abnormality in extracting eyes information expressed by different emotions. Results indicated that similar to non‐ASD individuals, ASD individuals used information from other people's eyes to judge happiness and anger. In contrast, ASD individuals showed a remarkable reduction in processing the eye region in fearful face, together with enhanced processing of the mouth, compared with the control group. The results suggest that a selective abnormality in extracting eyes information of fearful face without abnormality in processing eyes area of other basic facial emotions is a key and characteristic feature of autistic facial cognition. To our knowledge, this finding regarding the selective abnormality in extracting fearful information from another's eyes in ASDs has never been reported in previous studies and the information gathered as a part of this pilot research project has important clinical implications for social information processing training. For example, as children with ASD are more vulnerable to fear processing, training related to fear should be stressed. Autism Res 2016, 9: 1002–1011. © 2016 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Jasmonic acid and methyl dihydrojasmonate enhance saponin biosynthesis as well as expression of functional genes in adventitious roots of Panax notoginseng F.H. Chen
Authors: Li Jinxin , Wang Juan , Wu Xiaolei , Liu Dahui , Li Jing , Li Jianli , Liu Shujie , Gao Wenyuan
Published: January 2016

Panax notoginseng, an important herbal medicine, has wide uses for its bioactive compounds and health function. In this work, we compared the content of saponin in cultivation and adventitious root. The total content of saponins in adventitious root (8.48 mg⋅g−1) was found lower than in the native one (3‐year‐old) (34.34 mg⋅g−1). To enhance the content of bioactive compounds, we applied elicitors jasmonic acid (JA) and methyl dihydrojasmonate (MDJ) to the adventitious root culture. It was observed that the highest total content of saponins (71.94 mg⋅g−1) was achieved after treatment with 5 mg⋅L−1 JA, which was 2.09‐fold higher than native roots and 8.45‐fold higher than the control group. The findings from high‐performance liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization–tandem mass spectrometry analysis showed that six new compounds were present after the treatment with the elicitors. Furthermore, we found that JA and MDJ significantly upregulated the expression of the geranyl diphosphate synthase, farnesyl diphosphate synthase, squalene synthase, squalene epoxidase, dammarenediol synthase, and CYP716A47 and CYP716A53v2 (CYP450 enzyme) genes; downregulated the expression of the cycloartenol synthase gene; and increased superoxide dismutase and peroxidase activities.
Biofuel, sustainability, and forest indicators' nexus in the panel generalized method of moments estimation: evidence from 12 developed and developing countries
Authors: Ozturk Ilhan
Published: January 2016

This study examines the interrelationship between biofuel consumption and production and several national‐scale indicators of socioeconomic and environmental sustainability by using the functional form of the Solow growth model. Panel data ranging from 2000 to 2013 has been used for 12 distinct countries by employing the Panel Generalized Method of Moments (PGMM) technique. The results show that growth factors have a positive impact on biofuel consumption while environmental indicators increase along with the increasing use of biofuels. Potential habitant areas (represented by the forest indicators) are influenced by biofuel consumption. More specifically, as biofuels decrease the arable land in hectares, it also decreases the rate of forest depletion. The results show that GDP per unit of energy used and the amount of forest area are significantly correlated with higher biofuel production while the labor force participation rate significantly decreases biofuel production in the region. There is a significant and negative relationship between net forest depletion and biofuel production. The cause and effect relationship between the variables is estimated through the panel causality Wald exogeniety test. The results indicate a unidirectional causality running from GDP per capita to biofuel consumption and from biofuel consumption to fossil fuel energy consumption. While there is bidirectional causality between GDP per capita and biofuel production in the region, the results emphasize the role of biofuel consumption and production in devising strong policy options for escalating economic growth, a carbon‐free economy, and the preservation of biodiversity in a region. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd