bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Characterization of Silicone Contact Lenses Based on TRIS-DMA-NVP-HEMA Hydrogels
Authors: Tran Nguyen-Phuong-Dung , Yang Ming-Chien
Published: May 2019

In this study, silicone-based hydrogel contact lenses were prepared by the polymerization of 3-(methacryloyloxy)propyltris(trimethylsiloxy)silane (TRIS), N,N-dimethylacrylamide (DMA), 1-vinyl-2-pyrrolidinone (NVP), and 2-hydroxyethylmethacrylate (HEMA). The properties of silicone hydrogel lenses were analyzed based on the methods such as equilibrium water content, oxygen permeability, optical transparency, contact angle, mechanical test, protein adsorption, and cell toxicity. The results showed that the TRIS content in all formulations increased the oxygen permeability and decreased the equilibrium water content, while both DMA and NVP contributed the hydrophilicity of the hydrogels. The maximum value of oxygen permeability was 74.9 barrers, corresponding to an equilibrium water content of 44.5% as well as a contact angle of 82°. Moreover, L929 fibroblasts grew on all these hydrogels, suggesting non-cytotoxicity. In general, the silicone hydrogels in this work exhibited good oxygen permeability, stiffness, and optical transparency as well as anti-protein adsorption. Hence, these silicone hydrogel polymers would be feasible for making contact lens.
Reactive Power Optimization of Large-Scale Power Systems: A Transfer Bees Optimizer Application
Authors: Cao Huazhen , Yu Tao , Zhang Xiaoshun , Yang Bo , Wu Yaxiong
Published: May 2019

A novel transfer bees optimizer for reactive power optimization in a high-power system was developed in this paper. Q-learning was adopted to construct the learning mode of bees, improving the intelligence of bees through task division and cooperation. Behavior transfer was introduced, and prior knowledge of the source task was used to process the new task according to its similarity to the source task, so as to accelerate the convergence of the transfer bees optimizer. Moreover, the solution space was decomposed into multiple low-dimensional solution spaces via associated state-action chains. The transfer bees optimizer performance of reactive power optimization was assessed, while simulation results showed that the convergence of the proposed algorithm was more stable and faster, and the algorithm was about 4 to 68 times faster than the traditional artificial intelligence algorithms.
Productivity Models of Infill Complex Structural Wells in Mixed Well Patterns
Authors: Sun Liang , Li Baozhu , Li Yong
Published: May 2019

The mathematical models of productivity calculation for complex structural wells mainly focus on the single well or the regular well pattern. Previous research on the seepage theory of complex structural wells and vertical wells in mixed well pattern is greatly insufficient. Accordingly, this article presents a methodology of evaluating the productivity of infill complex structural wells in mixed well patterns. On the basis of the mirror-image method and source–sink theory, two semi-analytical models are established. These models are applied to the productivity prediction of an infill horizontal well inhorizontal-vertical well pattern and an infill multilateral well inmultilateral-vertical well pattern, respectively, in which the interference of other wells, the randomicity of well patterns, and the pressure drawdown along the horizontal laterals are taken into account. The semi-analytical models’ results are consistent with those calculated by the Eclipse reservoir simulator with the relative error of less than 15%. Results indicate that the bottom hole flowing pressure decreases logarithmically while the wellbore flow rate increases monotonically from the toe to the heel of the horizontal well. Due to the pseudo-hemispherical flow at each endpoint and the pseudo-linear flow at the center of the horizontal well, the drainage area at each endpoint is relatively larger than that at the center. The radial inflow at each endpoint of the horizontal segment is considerably greater than that at the center, which presents the U-shape distribution. The proposed methodology enhances and promotes the theory of productivity evaluation for complex structural wells in mixed well patterns.
Humans as Animals and Things in Pre-Buddhist China
Authors: Nylan Michael
Published: May 2019

This paper examines the way thinkers in the pre-Buddhist world in China viewed the animal-human divide. It argues that the boundaries between humans and animals were porous. The only unique capacities that human beings are credited with were first (widely) the ability to develop their unique potentials (chengren 成人), and, second (in a very few texts), the capacity to respond with greater sensitivity to the resonant world around them. In both contexts, the extant terms make use of two terms, ling 靈 and jingshen 精神. Part II of the essay then turns to examine the most influential Euro-American theories cited in today’s secondary literature regarding the animal-human divide. None of these seem remotely like the theories articulated in early China. In Part III, the essay examines vitalism, which is an unusual instance in early modern Europe where an important theory seems to approach the views of early China, with the express aim of reminding readers that we need not automatically posit an impassable gulf between East and West, but can, instead, profit from wider reading that yields more comparative insights.
Upside-Down Robots: Modeling and Experimental Validation of Magnetic-Adhesion Mobile Systems
Authors: Seriani Stefano , Scalera Lorenzo , Caruso Matteo , Gasparetto Alessandro , Gallina Paolo
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we present the modeling and validation of a new family of climbing robots that are capable of adhering to vertical surfaces through permanent magnetic elements. The robotic system is composed of two modules, the master and the follower carts, which are arranged in a sandwich configuration, with the surface to climb interposed between them. Thanks to this configuration, the mobile robot can climb even nonferromagnetic and curved surfaces; moreover, the master cart is capable of freely moving on the floor by detaching from the follower. In this paper, we propose the mathematical modeling, simulation, and experimental validation of this kind of robots, with particular focus on the transitions between floor and climbing motion.
Cubesats Allow High Spatiotemporal Estimates of Satellite-Derived Bathymetry
Authors: Poursanidis Dimitris , Traganos Dimosthenis , Chrysoulakis Nektarios , Reinartz Peter
Published: May 2019

High spatial and temporal resolution satellite remote sensing estimates are the silver bullet for monitoring of coastal marine areas globally. From 2000, when the first commercial satellite platforms appeared, offering high spatial resolution data, the mapping of coastal habitats and the extraction of bathymetric information have been possible at local scales. Since then, several platforms have offered such data, although not at high temporal resolution, making the selection of suitable images challenging, especially in areas with high cloud coverage. PlanetScope CubeSats appear to cover this gap by providing their relevant imagery. The current study is the first that examines the suitability of them for the calculation of the Satellite-derived Bathymetry. The availability of daily data allows the selection of the most qualitatively suitable images within the desired timeframe. The application of an empirical method of spaceborne bathymetry estimation provides promising results, with depth errors that fit to the requirements of the International Hydrographic Organization at the Category Zone of Confidence for the inclusion of these data in navigation maps. While this is a pilot study in a small area, more studies in areas with diverse water types are required for solid conclusions on the requirements and limitations of such approaches in coastal bathymetry estimations.
A posteriori GPR Evaluation of Tree Stability: A Case Study in Rome (Italy)
Authors: Barone Pier Matteo , Ferrara Carlotta
Published: May 2019

Following the frequent and harmful collapses of trees that have plagued the municipal territory of Rome in recent years, a protocol of understanding was initiated between the Department of Environmental Protection of ROMA CAPITALE, the American University of Rome, the Research Centre for Forestry and Wood of the– Council for Agricultural Research and Economics (CREA)–, and Sensors and Software, Inc. This protocol aims to start an experimental project by conducting a series of non-destructive geophysical measurements using ground-penetrating radar (GPR) technology and assessing the effectiveness of this methodology to investigate the root system and tree trunks located along paved roads in two sample areas of the city. The test will use the GPR technique to confirm some hypothetical assumptions about tree stability based on a posteriori evaluations made by the Department of Environmental Protection of ROMA CAPITALE. All phases of this test showed the effectiveness of the method and the rapidity of the data acquisition.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Using Vegetation Indices Based on Red-Edge Reflectance from Sentinel-2 to Estimate Gross Primary Productivity
Authors: Lin Shangrong , Li Jing , Liu Qinhuo , Li Longhui , Zhao Jing , Yu Wentao
Published: May 2019

Gross primary productivity (GPP) is the most important component of terrestrial carbon flux. Red-edge (680–780 nm) reflectance is sensitive to leaf chlorophyll content, which is directly correlated with photosynthesis as the pigment pool, and it has the potential to improve GPP estimation. The European Space Agency (ESA) Sentinel-2A and B satellites provide red-edge bands at 20-m spatial resolution on a five-day revisit period, which can be used for global estimation of GPP. Previous studies focused mostly on improving cropland GPP estimation using red-edge bands. In this study, we firstly evaluated the relationship between eight vegetation indices (VIs) retrieved from Sentinel-2 imagery in association with incident photosynthetic active radiation (PARin) and carbon flux tower GPP (GPPEC) across three forest and two grassland sites in Australia. We derived a time series of five red-edge VIs and three non-red-edge VIs over the CO2 flux tower footprints at 16-day time intervals and compared both temporal and spatial variations. The results showed that the relationship between the red-edge index (CIr, ρ 783 ρ 705 − 1 ) multiplied by PARin and GPPEC had the highest correlation (R2 = 0.77, root-mean-square error (RMSE) = 0.81 gC∙m−2∙day−1) at the two grassland sites. The CIr also showed consistency (rRMSE defined as RMSE/mean GPP, lower than 0.25) across forest and grassland sites. The high spatial resolution of the Sentinel-2 data provided more detailed information to adequately characterize the GPP variance at spatially heterogeneous areas. The high revisit period of Sentinel-2 exhibited temporal variance in GPP at the grassland sites; however, at forest sites, the flux-tower-based GPP variance could not be fully tracked by the limited satellite images. These results suggest that the high-spatial-resolution red-edge index from Sentinel-2 can improve large-scale spatio-temporal GPP assessments.
Multi-Index Image Differencing Method (MINDED) for Flood Extent Estimations
Authors: Oliveira Eduardo R. , Disperati Leonardo , Cenci Luca , Gomes Pereira Luísa , Alves Fátima L.
Published: May 2019

Satellite remote sensing data are often used to extract water surfaces related to extreme events like floods. This study presents the Multi INDEx Differencing (MINDED) method, an innovative procedure to estimate flood extents, aiming at improving the robustness of single water-related indices and threshold-based approaches. MINDED consists of a change detection approach integrating specific sensitivities of several indices. Moreover, the method also allows to quantify the uncertainty of the Overall flood map, based on both the agreement level of the stack of classifications and the weight of every index obtained from the literature. Assuming the lack of ground truths to be the most common condition in flood mapping, MINDED also integrates a procedure to reduce the subjectivity of thresholds extraction focused on the analysis of water-related indices frequency distribution. The results of the MINDED application to a case study using Landsat images are compared with an alternative change detection method using Sentinel-1A data, and demonstrate consistency with local fluvial flood records.
Damage Detection of Common Timber Connections Using Piezoceramic Transducers and Active Sensing
Authors: Han Fang , Jiang Jinwei , Xu Kai , Wang Ning
Published: May 2019

Timber structures have been widely used due to their low-cost and environmental-friendly properties. It is essential to monitor connection damage to ensure the stability and safety of entire timber structures since timber connection damage may induce catastrophic incidents if not detected in a timely manner. However, the current investigations on timber connections focus on mechanical properties and failure modes, and the damage detection of timber connection receives rare attention. Therefore, in this paper, we investigate the damage detection of four common timber connections (i.e., the screw connection, the bolt connection, the decussation connection, and the tooth plate connection) by using the active sensing method. The active sensing method was implemented by using a pair of lead zirconate titanate (PZT) transducers: one PZT patch is used as an actuator to generate stress waves, and the other works as a sensor to detect stress waves after propagating across the timber connection. Based on the wavelet packet energy analysis, the signal energy levels of received stress waves under different damage extent are quantified. Finally, by comparing the signal energy between the intact status and the damage status of the timber connection, we find that the energy attenuates with increasing severity of the connection damage. The experimental results demonstrate that the active sensing method can realize real-time monitoring of timber connection damage, which can guide further investigations.
Multi-Layer Feature Based Shoeprint Verification Algorithm for Camera Sensor Images
Authors: Wang Xinnian , Wu Yanjun , Zhang Tao
Published: May 2019

As a kind of forensic evidence, shoeprints have been treated as important as fingerprint and DNA evidence in forensic investigations. Shoeprint verification is used to determine whether two shoeprints could, or could not, have been made by the same shoe. Successful shoeprint verification has tremendous evidentiary value, and the result can link a suspect to a crime, or even link crime scenes to each other. In forensic practice, shoeprint verification is manually performed by forensic experts; however, it is too dependent on experts’ experience. This is a meaningful and challenging problem, and there are few attempts to tackle it in the literatures. In this paper, we propose a multi-layer feature-based method to conduct shoeprint verification automatically. Firstly, we extracted multi-layer features; and then conducted multi-layer feature matching and calculated the total similarity score. Finally, we drew a verification conclusion according to the total similarity score. We conducted extensive experiments to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed method on two shoeprint datasets. Experimental results showed that the proposed method achieved good performance with an equal error rate (EER) of 3.2% on the MUES-SV1KR2R dataset and an EER of 10.9% on the MUES-SV2HS2S dataset.
A Clinically Evaluated Interferometric Continuous-Wave Radar System for the Contactless Measurement of Human Vital Parameters
Authors: Michler Fabian , Shi Kilin , Schellenberger Sven , Steigleder Tobias , Malessa Anke , Hameyer Laura , Neumann Nina , Lurz Fabian , Ostgathe Christoph , Weigel Robert , Koelpin Alexander
Published: May 2019

Vital parameters are key indicators for the assessment of health. Conventional methods rely on direct contact with the patients’ skin and can hence cause discomfort and reduce autonomy. This article presents a bistatic 24 GHz radar system based on an interferometric six-port architecture and features a precision of 1 µm in distance measurements. Placed at a distance of 40 cm in front of the human chest, it detects vibrations containing respiratory movements, pulse waves and heart sounds. For the extraction of the respiration rate, time-domain approaches like autocorrelation, peaksearch and zero crossing rate are compared to the Fourier transform, while template matching and a hidden semi-Markov model are utilized for the detection of the heart rate from sphygmograms and heart sounds. A medical study with 30 healthy volunteers was conducted to collect 5.5 h of data, where impedance cardiogram and electrocardiogram were used as gold standard for synchronously recording respiration and heart rate, respectively. A low root mean square error for the breathing rate (0.828 BrPM) and a high overall F1 score for heartbeat detection (93.14%) could be achieved using the proposed radar system and signal processing.
An Recognition–Verification Mechanism for Real-Time Chinese Sign Language Recognition Based on Multi-Information Fusion
Authors: Wang Fei , Zhao Shusen , Zhou Xingqun , Li Chen , Li Mingyao , Zeng Zhen
Published: May 2019

For online sign language recognition (SLR) based on inertial measurement unit (IMU) and a surface electromyography (sEMG) sensor, achieving high-accuracy is a major challenge. The traditional method for that is the segmentation–recognition mechanism, which has two key challenges: (1) it is difficult to design a highly robust segmentation method for online data with inconspicuous segmentation information; and (2) the diversity of input data will increase the burden of the classification. The recognition–verification mechanism was proposed to improve the performance of online SLR. In the recognition stage, we used sliding windows to pull the data, and applied a convolutional neural network (CNN) to classify the sign language signal. In the verification stage, the confidence was evaluated by the Siamese network to judge the correctness of the classification results. The accuracy and rapidity of the classification model were discussed for 86 categories of Chinese sign language. In the experiments for online SLR, the superiority of the recognition–verification mechanism compared to the segmentation–recognition mechanism was verified.
Validity of the Walked Distance Estimated by Wearable Devices in Stroke Individuals
Authors: Compagnat Maxence , Batcho Charles Sebiyo , David Romain , Vuillerme Nicolas , Salle Jean Yves , Daviet Jean Christophe , Mandigout Stéphane
Published: May 2019

Background: Health professionals need valid devices to assess a stroke individual’s ability to walk. The aim was to evaluate the validity of the estimation of the walked distance by wearable devices and the impact of the sensor’s position in stroke individuals. Methods: Post-stroke patients able to walk without human assistance were equipped with several wearable devices: pedometers, Actigraph, and Sensewear Armband placed according to the manufacturers' recommendations. Participants walked for 6 min at a comfortable speed wearing all sensors at the same time. We analyzed the validity of sensor-estimated distances according to their position using Bland–Altman analysis, root-mean-square error, and coefficient of correlation. Results: In total, 35 individuals were included (mean age = 65 ± 15 years). The best estimations were given by the Actigraph worn on the unaffected ankle (mean bias (MB) = 22.6 ± 32.4 m; p = 0.37) and by the pedometer worn on the unaffected hip (MB = 20.5 ± 24.6 m; p = 0.46). The other sensors and positions provided large estimation errors over 95 m (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study led to a recommendation of a pedometer worn on the unaffected hip or an Actigraph worn on the unaffected ankle to get a valid estimation of the distance walked by stroke individuals.
A Schiff Base Fluorescence Enhancement Probe for Fe(III) and Its Sensing Applications in Cancer Cells
Authors: Kim Na Hee , Lee Junho , Park Sungnam , Jung Junyang , Kim Dokyoung
Published: May 2019

We report a new Schiff base fluorescent probe which senses ferric ion, Fe(III), with a significant fluorescence enhancement response. The probe showed high sensitivity (0.8 ppb), and fast response time (<10 s) of Fe(III) in aqueous media. In addition, the probe showed the ability to sense Fe(III) in a HeLa cancer cell line, with very low cytotoxicity. As a new bio-imaging probe for Fe(III), it gave bright fluorescent images in confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).
Hybrid Data Fusion DBN for Intelligent Fault Diagnosis of Vehicle Reducers
Authors: Zhang Tianfan , Li Zhe , Deng Zhenghong , Hu Bin
Published: May 2019

Given its importance, fault diagnosis has attracted considerable attention in the literature, and several machine learning methods have been proposed to discover the characteristics of different aspects in fault diagnosis. In this paper, we propose a Hybrid Deep Belief Network (HDBN) learning model that integrates data in different ways for intelligent fault diagnosis in motor drive systems, such as a vehicle drive system. In particular, we propose three data fusion methods: data union, data join, and data hybrid, based on detailed data fusion research. Additionally, the significance of the fusion is explained from the energy perspective of the signal. In particular, the appropriate fusion methods and data structures suitable for model training requirements can help improve the accuracy of fault diagnosis. Moreover, mixed-precision training is used as a special fusion method to further improve the performance of the model. Experiments with the datasets obtained from the simulation platform demonstrate the superiority of our proposed model over the state-of-the-art methods.
Bioimpedance Sensor Array for Long-Term Monitoring of Wound Healing from Beneath the Primary Dressings and Controlled Formation of H2O2 Using Low-Intensity Direct Current
Authors: Kekonen Atte , Bergelin Mikael , Johansson Max , Kumar Joon Narender , Bobacka Johan , Viik Jari
Published: May 2019

Chronic wounds impose a significant financial burden for the healthcare system. Currently, assessment and monitoring of hard-to-heal wounds are often based on visual means and measuring the size of the wound. The primary wound dressings must be removed before assessment can be done. We have developed a quasi-monopolar bioimpedance-measurement-based method and a measurement system to determine the status of wound healing. The objective of this study was to demonstrate that with an appropriate setup, long-term monitoring of wound healing from beneath the primary dressings is feasible. The developed multielectrode sensor array was applied on the wound area and left under the primary dressings for 142 h. The impedance of the wounds and the surrounding intact skin area was measured regularly during the study at 150 Hz, 300 Hz, 1 kHz, and 5 kHz frequencies. At the end of the follow-up period, the wound impedance had reached the impedance of the intact skin at the higher frequencies and increased significantly at the lowest frequencies. The measurement frequency affected the measurement sensitivity in wound monitoring. The skin impedance remained stable over the measurement period. The sensor array also enabled the administration of periodical low-intensity direct current (LIDC) stimulation in order to create an antimicrobial environment across the wound area via the controlled formation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).
Analysis and Use of the Emotional Context with Wearable Devices for Games and Intelligent Assistants
Authors: Nalepa Grzegorz J. , Kutt Krzysztof , Giżycka Barbara , Jemioło Paweł , Bobek Szymon
Published: May 2019

In this paper, we consider the use of wearable sensors for providing affect-based adaptation in Ambient Intelligence (AmI) systems. We begin with discussion of selected issues regarding the applications of affective computing techniques. We describe our experiments for affect change detection with a range of wearable devices, such as wristbands and the BITalino platform, and discuss an original software solution, which we developed for this purpose. Furthermore, as a test-bed application for our work, we selected computer games. We discuss the state-of-the-art in affect-based adaptation in games, described in terms of the so-called affective loop. We present our original proposal of a conceptual design framework for games, called the affective game design patterns. As a proof-of-concept realization of this approach, we discuss some original game prototypes, which we have developed, involving emotion-based control and adaptation. Finally, we comment on a software framework, that we have previously developed, for context-aware systems which uses human emotional contexts. This framework provides means for implementing adaptive systems using mobile devices with wearable sensors.
Analysis of Electrical Resistance and Impedance Change of Magnetorheological Gels with DC and AC Voltage for Magnetometer Application
Authors: Park Jae-Eun , Yun Ga-Eun , Jang Dae-Ik , Kim Young-Keun
Published: May 2019

Magnetorheological gel (MRG) is a smart material that can change its stiffness property by external magnetic field and has been applied as a smart rubber in suppressing vibration. Recent studies show that the electrical resistance of MRG also can be affected with external magnetic field. Thus, this study aimed to conduct analysis on MRG resistance variation due to external magnetic field with DC and AC input voltage. With an DC input voltage, the resistance change due to magnetic field was modeled. In addition, the capacitance variation of the material was observed. The impedance of MRG due to AC input voltage was analyzed and was observed that the impedance of MRG was affected by both the magnetic field and the input frequency. With the experiment data, the impedance modeling of MRG in frequency domain was derived. Based on experiment results, the performance and limitation of MRG as a magnetometer sensor are discussed.
A Mechatronic Platform for Computer Aided Detection of Nodules in Anatomopathological Analyses via Stiffness and Ultrasound Measurements
Authors: Massari Luca , Bulletti Andrea , Prasanna Sahana , Mazzoni Marina , Frosini Francesco , Vicari Elena , Pantano Marcello , Staderini Fabio , Ciuti Gastone , Cianchi Fabio , Messerini Luca , Capineri Lorenzo , Menciassi Arianna , Oddo Calogero Maria
Published: May 2019

This study presents a platform for ex-vivo detection of cancer nodules, addressing automation of medical diagnoses in surgery and associated histological analyses. The proposed approach takes advantage of the property of cancer to alter the mechanical and acoustical properties of tissues, because of changes in stiffness and density. A force sensor and an ultrasound probe were combined to detect such alterations during force-regulated indentations. To explore the specimens, regardless of their orientation and shape, a scanned area of the test sample was defined using shape recognition applying optical background subtraction to the images captured by a camera. The motorized platform was validated using seven phantom tissues, simulating the mechanical and acoustical properties of ex-vivo diseased tissues, including stiffer nodules that can be encountered in pathological conditions during histological analyses. Results demonstrated the platform’s ability to automatically explore and identify the inclusions in the phantom. Overall, the system was able to correctly identify up to 90.3% of the inclusions by means of stiffness in combination with ultrasound measurements, paving pathways towards robotic palpation during intraoperative examinations.
A CMOS Compatible Pyroelectric Mid-Infrared Detector Based on Aluminium Nitride
Authors: Ranacher Christian , Consani Cristina , Tortschanoff Andreas , Rauter Lukas , Holzmann Dominik , Fleury Clement , Stocker Gerald , Fant Andrea , Schaunig Herbert , Irsigler Peter , Grille Thomas , Jakoby Bernhard
Published: May 2019

The detection of infrared radiation is of great interest for a wide range of applications, such as absorption sensing in the infrared spectral range. In this work, we present a CMOS compatible pyroelectric detector which was devised as a mid-infrared detector, comprising aluminium nitride (AlN) as the pyroelectric material and fabricated using semiconductor mass fabrication processes. To ensure thermal decoupling of the detector, the detectors are realized on a Si3N4/SiO2 membrane. The detectors have been tested at a wavelength close to the CO2 absorption region in the mid-infrared. Devices with various detector and membrane sizes were fabricated and the influence of these dimensions on the performance was investigated. The noise equivalent power of the first demonstrator devices connected to a readout circuit was measured to be as low as 5.3 × 10 − 9 W / Hz .
Understanding the Disaster–Migration–Violent Conflict Nexus in a Warming World: The Importance of International Policy Interventions
Authors: Brzoska Michael
Published: May 2019

The importance and extent of some of the linkages between disasters, migration and violent conflict are not very well understood. There has been controversy in the empirical analytical literature both over core elements of the nexus and over the mechanisms driving it. One reason for the current state of the pertinent literature is the widespread neglect of international policy interventions in the policy fields of disaster risk reduction, conflict prevention and peacebuilding, migration management as well as humanitarian and development assistance. This contribution highlights the importance of international interventions in these fields with respect to elements of the nexus. Based on a brief review of the comparative empirical evidence concerning the disputed links between disasters, migration and violent conflict it demonstrates how international policy interventions are affecting them. The study concludes with a call for more research into the ways in which international policy interventions contribute to shaping the disaster–migration–violent conflict nexus, arguing that a better understanding would enhance the potential for better policies to address its negative consequences.
Multireaction Modeling of Lead (Pb) and Copper (Cu) Sorption/Desorption Kinetics in Different Soils
Authors: Elbana Tamer A. , Selim H. Magdi
Published: May 2019

Batch kinetic experiments were carried out to quantify and describe the sorption/desorption of Cu and Pb in ten soils that exhibited a wide range of properties. Sorption isotherms were quantified using the Langmuir equation, whereas modeling of sorption/desorption kinetics was described using multireaction model (MRM). Results revealed the nonlinear sorption behavior of Cu and Pb in all soils. The ten soils exhibited higher affinity to Pb (6.4 to 36.5 mmol kg−1) in comparison to Cu (3.6 to 22.4 mmol kg−1). Simulation of Cu and Pb kinetic data indicated that the rate of sorption reaction was two orders of magnitude higher than the rate of release. Considering one irreversible site in addition to one-reversible kinetic site improved the estimation of rates of reaction for both Cu and Pb in acidic and alkaline soils. All soils exhibited sorption/desorption hysteresis where Pb-releases ranged between <0.2% and 14.4% of the total sorbed. The respective Cu releases ranged from <0.85% and 23.4%. The multireaction model, which was successful in describing Cu and Pb for all ten soils, provided insight into the processes of sorption/desorption of Cu and Pb in all soils.
Influence of the Intention to Lean the Body Forward on Kinematics and Kinetics of Sprinting for Active Adults
Authors: Nagahara Ryu , Amini Elaheh , Marcon Kelly Cristina Cesco , Chen Peng-Wen , Chua Jessica , Eiberger Jens , Futalan Nathaniel Jonathan Claridad , Lye Jamie , Pantovic Marko Milan , Starczewski Michal , Sudsa-ard Kriyot , Sumartiningsih Sri , Wang Chien-Yen , William Tania Beverly , Kasujja Tonnie , Gujar Tariq Ali
Published: May 2019

This study investigated the influence of the intention to lean the body forward on spatiotemporal and ground reaction force variables during the acceleration phase of a sprint. Fourteen active adults performed two 50 m sprints (with and without the intention to lean), during which spatiotemporal variables and impulses were obtained using a long force platform system. Effect size (Cohen’s d) was used to examine the differences between the two trials. We found that running speed and net anteroposterior impulse did not change by the intention for all steps. However, step frequency increased in the initial two steps through decreases in support time and flight time by the intention. Moreover, these shorter support and flight times were caused by a decrease in the vertical impulse. The propulsive impulse did not change during the initial part of acceleration phase, but the braking impulse decreased at the first step. This study demonstrates that an intention to lean the body forward leads to a smaller braking impulse and a higher step frequency through shorter support and flight times and a smaller vertical impulse during the initial part of the acceleration phase of a sprint.
Purposeful Outdoor Learning Empowers Children to Deal with School Transitions
Authors: Slee Vikki , Allan John F.
Published: May 2019

UK schoolchildren are vulnerable to transitional stress between primary and secondary school, which may impact negatively upon their psychological health and academic achievement. This is experienced most acutely by children from ethnic minorities and lower socio-economic status (SES) households. Outdoor Adventure (OA) residential programmes are purported to develop behavioural adaptations which enable positive educational transitions of children. Personal, social and academic skills (self-reliance, getting along with others, curriculum alignment) may be best acquired through bespoke nature-based residential OA programmes. A mixed methods study evaluated the efficacy of a bespoke OA programme for developing school children’s psychological well-being and self-determination during their transition into secondary school. Participants were representantives of ethnic minorities and lower SES groups. A bespoke OA residential programme achieved the strongest scale of change in children’s psychological well-being (F (30,69) = 1.97 < 0.05) and self-determination (effect size 0.25) compared to a generic OA residential and a non-OA school-based induction programme. Qualitative testimonies illuminated personal experiences and processes underpinning the perceived changes in the self-determination domains of Autonomy (the capacity to self-direct learning), Competence (the ability to complete tasks) and Relatedness (developing connections with others). Providing early opportunities for children to take control for their own learning through nature-based tailored OA programming improves their psychological well-being and adaptability to combat transitional stress.
Outcomes from a One-Week Adapted Sport and Adapted Adventure Recovery Programme for Military Personnel
Authors: Peacock Suzanne M. , McKenna Jim , Carless David , Cooke Carlton
Published: May 2019

Background: The Battle Back Centre offers a bespoke, Self Determination Theory-oriented adapted sport and adventurous training programme centred on experiential learning and reflection to support the recovery of military personnel. Aim: To identify the short-term impact of participation in the programme on positive mental health and psychological need satisfaction. Method: Participants were 978 wounded, injured and sick (WIS) personnel classified as: Wounded (battle casualties), Injured (non-battle casualties) and Sick (mental/physical illness). Participants completed the Basic Need Satisfaction in General Scale (Gagné, 2003) and Warwick and Edinburgh Mental Well Being Scale (Tennant et al. 2006) on arrival and course completion. Results: All measures of positive mental health and psychological need satisfaction showed statistically significant increases, with a large effect size, from baseline to course completion (mean ± SD change in positive mental health, competence, autonomy and relatedness were 7.19 ± 9.61, 0.46 ± 0.9, 0.27 ± 0.84, 0.26 ± 0.86, respectively, p < 0.05). While the average magnitude of the intervention effect for positive mental health (16%) is comparable or greater than other reported interventions, changes were achieved in a shorter time. Conclusion: Findings highlight the positive short-term effect adapted sport and adventurous activities have for WIS personnel. Declaration of interest: Work supported by The Royal British Legion.
Effects of Submaximal Performances on Critical Speed and Power: Uses of an Arbitrary-Unit Method with Different Protocols
Authors: Vandewalle Henry
Published: May 2019

The effects of submaximal performances on critical speed (SCrit) and critical power (PCrit) were studied in 3 protocols: a constant-speed protocol (protocol 1), a constant-time protocol (protocol 2) and a constant-distance protocol (protocol 3). The effects of submaximal performances on SCrit and PCrit were studied with the results of two theoretical maximal exercises multiplied by coefficients lower or equal to 1 (from 0.8 to 1 for protocol 1; from 0.95 to 1 for protocols 2 and 3): coefficient C1 for the shortest exercises and C2 for the longest exercises. Arbitrary units were used for exhaustion times (tlim), speeds (or power-output in cycling) and distances (or work in cycling). The submaximal-performance effects on SCrit and PCrit were computed from two ranges of tlim (1–4 and 1–7). These effects have been compared for a low-endurance athlete (exponent = 0.8 in the power-law model of Kennelly) and a high-endurance athlete (exponent = 0.95). Unexpectedly, the effects of submaximal performances on SCrit and PCrit are lower in protocol 1. For the 3 protocols, the effects of submaximal performances on SCrit, and PCrit, are low in many cases and are lower when the range of tlim is longer. The results of the present theoretical study confirm the possibility of the computation of SCrit and PCrit from several submaximal exercises performed in the same session.
Monitoring Long-Term Trends in the Anthropogenic Night Sky Brightness
Authors: Bará Salvador , Lima Raul C. , Zamorano Jaime
Published: May 2019

Monitoring long-term trends in the evolution of the anthropogenic night sky brightness is a demanding task due to the high dynamic range of the artificial and natural light emissions and the high variability of the atmospheric conditions that determine the amount of light scattered in the direction of the observer. In this paper, we analyze the use of a statistical indicator, the mFWHM, to assess the night sky brightness changes over periods of time larger than one year. The mFWHM is formally defined as the average value of the recorded magnitudes contained within the full width at half-maximum region of the histogram peak corresponding to the scattering of artificial light under clear skies in the conditions of a moonless astronomical night (sun below −18°, and moon below −5°). We apply this indicator to the measurements acquired by the 14 SQM detectors of the Galician Night Sky Brightness Monitoring Network during the period 2015–2018. Overall, the available data suggest that the zenithal readings in the Sky Quality Meter (SQM) device-specific photometric band tended to increase during this period of time at an average rate of +0.09 magSQM/arcsec2 per year.
Determinants of Behavioral Intentions in the Context of Sport Tourism with the Aim of Sustaining Sporting Destinations
Authors: Jeong Yunduk , Kim Suk-Kyu , Yu Jae-Gu
Published: May 2019

This study was undertaken to examine structural relationships between event quality, tourist satisfaction, place attachment, and behavioral intentions with emphasis on the mediating effects of tourist satisfaction and place attachment on relations between event quality and behavioral intentions in the context of a small-scale recurring sporting event. Responses obtained from 350 attendees were collected and analyzed. Results showed positive impacts of (a) event quality, tourist satisfaction and place attachment on behavioral intentions, (b) event quality and tourist satisfaction on place attachment, and (c) event quality on tourist satisfaction, and demonstrated (d) tourist satisfaction and place attachment partially mediate relationships between event quality and behavioral intentions and that (e) place attachment partially mediates the relationship between tourist satisfaction and behavioral intentions.
Promoting Sustainability in University Classrooms Using a STEM Project with Mathematical Modeling
Authors: Suh Heejoo , Han Sunyoung
Published: May 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore how a science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) project with mathematical modeling influenced student competencies regarding sustainability in a university classroom. We used mixed methods with a convergent parallel design. Forty-two students participated in a STEM project during six consecutive sessions of an algebra class. Before and after the STEM project, the students completed surveys about their perceptions of the mathematical modeling approach. Semi-structured interviews and daily reflection sheets from 10 volunteers were used in qualitative analyses. According to the results of the quantitative analysis, after the completion of the STEM project students perceived that mathematical modeling is a useful tool for recognizing problem situations in the present, for predicting future societal changes, and identifying possible solutions to balance the needs of present and future generations. Our qualitative examination revealed that students’ modeling processes did not necessarily follow processes suggested by prior studies. In fact, students perceived more opportunities to practice modeling processes than we predicted. In addition, students indicated that their increased awareness of STEM projects provided opportunities to practice an interdisciplinary approach and to consider current and future real-world situations. We discuss the implications of our results for teaching sustainability using STEM projects and offer suggestions for future research.
Environmentalism and Polish Coal Mining: A Multilevel Study
Authors: Zientara Piotr , Zamojska Anna , Maciejewski Grzegorz , Nikodemska-Wołowik Anna Maria
Published: May 2019

This paper, drawing on a questionnaire survey conducted among 587 coal miners from six coal mines, seeks to ascertain whether the Polish coal mining industry is committed to organizational greening and whether its employees behave in environmentally responsible ways. Specifically, it explores—by means of hierarchical linear modeling (HLM)—the direct effects of green organizational climates on miners’ pro-environmental conduct at home and at work. We found that climates had a direct effect on employee behavior in and outside the workplace, and that personal environmental values were positively related to the latter variable. However, it has to be admitted that the actual engagement of coal miners in voluntary pro-environmental action at work was not very deep. Crucially, it turned out that, in two coal mines, there were strong green climates, while the rest were weak, which suggests differences in terms of commitment to organizational greening throughout the industry. The present paper explores the significance of the results and highlights the applicability of our methodological approach to the study of employee involvement in organizational pro-environmental action.
Assessment and Management of Pressure on Water Quality Protection along the Middle Route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project
Authors: Han Baolong , Meng Nan , Zhang Jiatian , Cai Wenbo , Wu Tong , Kong Lingqiao , Ouyang Zhiyun
Published: May 2019

Water scarcity in densely populated areas is a global concern. In China, ensuring water supply and quality in the middle of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project has become a major challenge due to the complexity and diversity of landscape features and the trunk canal construction in the crossing area of this route. Precise assessments of the pressures on water protection along the route are urgently needed. This article provides a rigorous methodological framework to assess water quality protection, identifying the intensity of human disturbance along the route within 2-km radius buffer areas on both sides of the trunk canal, based on land-use changes from 2005 to 2015. The results show that more than 10,000 ha of pervious surfaces were transformed into impervious surfaces, leading to undesirable outcomes. The results of this study can be used for decisive support in China’s environmental management, such as with main functional zoning policy and ecological red lines policy.
Customer Incentive Rebalancing Plan in Free-Float Bike-Sharing System with Limited Information
Authors: Wu Ruijing , Liu Shaoxuan , Shi Zhenyang
Published: May 2019

Free-float bike-sharing (FFBS) systems have increased in popularity as a sustainable travel mode in recent years, especially in the urban areas of China. Despite the convenience such systems offer to customers, it is not easy to maintain an effective balance in the distribution of bikes. This study considers the dynamic rebalancing problem for FFBS systems, whereby user-based tactics are employed by incentivizing users to perform repositioning activities. Motivated by the fact that the problem is frequently faced by FFBS system operators entering a new market with limited information on travel demand, we adopt the ranking and selection approach to select the optimal incentive plan. We describe the system dynamics in detail, and formulate a profit maximization problem with a constraint on customer service level. Through numerical studies, we first establish that our procedure can select the optimal incentive plan in a wide range of scenarios. Second, under our incentive plan, the profit and service level can be improved significantly compared with the scenario without incentive provision. Third, in most cases, our procedure can achieve the optimal solution with a reasonable sample size.
On the Decomposability of the Linear Combinations of Euler Polynomials with Odd Degrees
Authors: Pintér Ákos , Rakaczki Csaba
Published: May 2019

In the present paper we prove that under certain conditions the linear combination of two Euler polynomials with odd degrees P n , m ( x ) = E n ( x ) + c E m ( x ) is always indecomposable over C , where c denotes a rational number.
Efficacy of Azoxystrobin on Mycotoxins and Related Fungi in Italian Paddy Rice
Authors: Giorni Paola , Rolla Umberto , Romani Marco , Mulazzi Annalisa , Bertuzzi Terenzio
Published: May 2019

The efficacy of azoxystrobin was evaluated in the presence of mycotoxigenic fungi and relative mycotoxins in Italian paddy rice during the growing season in the field. Three experimental fields were considered and the applied experimental design was a strip plot with three replicates; rice samples were collected at four different growing stages. The efficacy of the fungicide treatment on rice fungal population was demonstrated with around 20% less total fungal incidence in sprayed samples compared to untreated ones; the same decrease was noted also in Fusarium spp. species but not in Aspergillus versicolor. Of the mycotoxins considered, ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxins (AFBs) were never detected, deoxynivalenol (DON) was found in 46% of samples at levels always lower than 100 µg/kg, while sterigmatocystin (STC) occurred in all the paddy rice samples collected after flowering, with a maximum value of 15.5 µg/kg. Treatment with azoxystrobin was not effective in reducing DON contamination, but it had an important and significant effect on STC content, showing a decrease of 67% in the sprayed samples.