bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D Multi-Microchannel Helical Mixer Fabricated by Femtosecond Laser inside Fused Silica
Authors: Shan Chao , Chen Feng , Yang Qing , Jiang Zhuangde , Hou Xun
Published: January 2018

Three-dimensional (3D) multi-microchannel mixers can meet the requirements of different combinations according to actual needs. Rapid and simple creation of 3D multi-microchannel mixers in a “lab-on-a-chip” platform is a significant challenge in micromachining. In order to realize the complex mixing functions of microfluidic chips, we fabricated two kinds of complex structure micromixers for multiple substance mixes simultaneously, separately, and in proper order. The 3D multi-microchannel mixers are fabricated by femtosecond laser wet etch technology inside fused silica. The 3D multi-microchannel helical mixers have desirable uniformity and consistency, which will greatly expand their utility and scope of application.
Detecting Chemical Hazards in Foods Using Microfluidic Paper-Based Analytical Devices (μPADs): The Real-World Application
Authors: Hua Marti , Li Shenmiao , Wang Shuo , Lu Xiaonan
Published: January 2018

Food safety remains one of the most important issues in most countries and the detection of food hazards plays a key role in the systematic approach to ensuring food safety. Rapid, easy-to-use and low-cost analytical tools are required to detect chemical hazards in foods. As a promising candidate, microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) have been rarely applied to real food samples for testing chemical hazards, although numerous papers have been published in this field in the last decade. This review discusses the current status and concerns of the μPAD applications in the detection of chemical hazards in foods from the perspective of food scientists, mainly for an audience with a background in mechanical and chemical engineering who may have interests in exploring the potential of μPAD to address real-world food safety issues.
Static and Dynamic Mechanical Behaviors of Electrostatic MEMS Resonator with Surface Processing Error
Authors: Feng Jingjing , Liu Cheng , Zhang Wei , Hao Shuying
Published: January 2018

The micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) resonator developed based on surface processing technology usually changes the section shape either due to excessive etching or insufficient etching. In this paper, a section parameter is proposed to describe the microbeam changes in the upper and lower sections. The effect of section change on the mechanical properties is studied analytically and verified through numerical and finite element solutions. A doubly-clamped microbeam-based resonator, which is actuated by an electrode on one side, is investigated. The higher-order model is derived without neglecting the effects of neutral plane stretching and electrostatic nonlinearity. Further, the Galerkin method and Newton–Cotes method are used to reduce the complexity and order of the derived model. First of all, the influence of microbeam shape and gap variation on the static pull-in are studied. Then, the dynamic analysis of the system is investigated. The method of multiple scales (MMS) is applied to determine the response of the system for small amplitude vibrations. The relationship between the microbeam shape and the frequency response is discussed. Results show that the change of section and gap distance can make the vibration soften, harden, and so on. Furthermore, when the amplitude of vibration is large, the frequency response softening effect is weakened by the MMS. If the nonlinearity shows hardening-type behavior at the beginning, with the increase of the amplitude, the frequency response will shift from hardening to softening behavior. The large amplitude in-well motions are studied to investigate the transitions between hardening and softening behaviors. Finally, the finite element analysis using COMSOL software (COMSOL Inc., Stockholm, Sweden) is carried out to verify the theoretical results, and the two results are very close to each other in the stable region.
Eye Gaze Controlled Projected Display in Automotive and Military Aviation Environments
Authors: Prabhakar Gowdham , Biswas Pradipta
Published: January 2018

This paper presents an eye gaze controlled projected display that can be used in aviation and automotive environment as a head up display. We have presented details of the hardware and software used in developing the display and an algorithm to improve performance of point and selection tasks in eye gaze controlled graphical user interface. The algorithm does not require changing layout of an interface; it rather puts a set of hotspots on clickable targets using a Simulated Annealing algorithm. Four user studies involving driving and flight simulators have found that the proposed projected display can improve driving and flying performance and significantly reduce pointing and selection times for secondary mission control tasks compared to existing interaction systems.
Dairy-Related Dietary Patterns, Dietary Calcium, Body Weight and Composition: A Study of Obesity in Polish Mothers and Daughters, the MODAF Project
Authors: Wadolowska Lidia , Ulewicz Natalia , Sobas Kamila , Wuenstel Justyna , Slowinska Malgorzata , Niedzwiedzka Ewa , Czlapka-Matyasik Magdalena
Published: January 2018

The role of the family environment in regards to dairy products and dietary calcium in the context of obesity is not fully understood. The aim of the study was to investigate the association among dairy-related dietary patterns (DDPs), dietary calcium, body weight and composition in mothers and daughters. Data were collected through a cross-sectional survey within the MODAF Project. A total sample of 712 pairs of mothers (<60 years) and daughters (12–21 years) was studied. This study included 691 pairs. A semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (ADOS-Ca) was used to collect dietary data. Waist circumference (WC), body fat, waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) and body mass index (BMI) were determined. Previously derived DDPs were used—three in mothers and three in daughters. In mothers, two of the DDPs were characterized by higher consumption of various dairy products with suboptimal calcium content (means: 703 or 796 mg/day) which decreased the chance of: z-WC > 1 standard deviation (SD), WC > 80 cm, body fat > 32%, WHtR > 0.5, BMI = 25–29.9 kg/m2 or BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 by 44–67% when compared to low-dairy low-calcium DDP (288 mg/day). In mothers per 100 mg/day of dietary calcium, the chance of z-WC > 1SD, WC > 80 cm, z-WHtR > 1SD, WHtR > 0.5 cm, BMI = 25 to 29.9 kg/m2 or BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2 decreased by 5–9%. In correspondence analysis, a clear association was found between mothers’ and daughters’ low-dairy low-calcium DDPs and upper categories of z-WC (>1 SDs). This study reinforces evidence of the similarity between mothers and daughters in dairy-related dietary patterns and provides a new insight on the adverse relation between low-dairy low-calcium dietary patterns and obesity. It was found that diets containing various dairy products with suboptimal dietary calcium content may be recommended in obesity prevention.
Protein from Meat or Vegetable Sources in Meals Matched for Fiber Content has Similar Effects on Subjective Appetite Sensations and Energy Intake—A Randomized Acute Cross-Over Meal Test Study
Authors: Nielsen Lone , Kristensen Marlene , Klingenberg Lars , Ritz Christian , Belza Anita , Astrup Arne , Raben Anne
Published: January 2018

Higher-protein meals decrease hunger and increase satiety compared to lower-protein meals. However, no consensus exists about the different effects of animal and vegetable proteins on appetite. We investigated how a meal based on vegetable protein (fava beans/split peas) affected ad libitum energy intake and appetite sensations, compared to macronutrient-balanced, iso-caloric meals based on animal protein (veal/pork or eggs). Thirty-five healthy men were enrolled in this acute cross-over study. On each test day, participants were presented with one of four test meals (~3550 kilojoules (kJ) 19% of energy from protein), based on fava beans/split peas (28.5 g fiber), pork/veal or eggs supplemented with pea fiber to control for fiber content (28.5 g fiber), or eggs without supplementation of fiber (6.0 g fiber). Subjective appetite sensations were recorded at baseline and every half hour until the ad libitum meal three hours later. There were no differences in ad libitum energy intake across test meals (p > 0.05). Further, no differences were found across meals for hunger, satiety, fullness, prospective food consumption, or composite appetite score (all p > 0.05). Iso-caloric, macronutrient-balanced, fiber-matched meals based on vegetable protein (fava beans/split peas) or animal protein (veal/pork or eggs) had similar effects on ad libitum energy intake and appetite sensations.
Specific Collagen Peptides Improve Bone Mineral Density and Bone Markers in Postmenopausal Women—A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: König Daniel , Oesser Steffen , Scharla Stephan , Zdzieblik Denise , Gollhofer Albert
Published: January 2018

Introduction: Investigations in rodents as well as in vitro experiments have suggested an anabolic influence of specific collagen peptides (SCP) on bone formation and bone mineral density (BMD). The goal of the study was to investigate the effect of 12-month daily oral administration of 5 g SCP vs. placebo (CG: control group) on BMD in postmenopausal women with primary, age-related reduction in BMD. Methods: 131 women were enrolled in this randomized, placebo-controlled double-blinded investigation. The primary endpoint was the change in BMD of the femoral neck and the spine after 12 months. In addition, plasma levels of bone markers—amino-terminal propeptide of type I collagen (P1NP) and C-telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX 1)—were analysed. Results: A total of 102 women completed the study, but all subjects were included in the intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis (age 64.3 ± 7.2 years; Body Mass Index, BMI 23.6 ± 3.6 kg/m2; T-score spine −2.4 ± 0.6; T-score femoral neck −1.4 ± 0.5). In the SCP group (n = 66), BMD of the spine and of the femoral neck increased significantly compared to the control group (n = 65) (T-score spine: SCP +0.1 ± 0.26; CG −0.03 ± 0.18; ANCOVA p = 0.030; T-score femoral neck: SCP +0.09 ± 0.24; CG −0.01 ± 0.19; ANCOVA p = 0.003). P1NP increased significantly in the SCP group (p = 0.007), whereas CTX 1 increased significantly in the control group (p = 0.011). Conclusions: These data demonstrate that the intake of SCP increased BMD in postmenopausal women with primary, age-related reduction of BMD. In addition, SCP supplementation was associated with a favorable shift in bone markers, indicating increased bone formation and reduced bone degradation.
Chitosan Gel to Treat Pressure Ulcers: A Clinical Pilot Study
Authors: Campani Virginia , Pagnozzi Eliana , Mataro Ilaria , Mayol Laura , Perna Alessandra , D’Urso Floriana , Carillo Antonietta , Cammarota Maria , Maiuri Maria , De Rosa Giuseppe
Published: January 2018

Chitosan is biopolymer with promising properties in wound healing. Chronic wounds represent a significant burden to both the patient and the medical system. Among chronic wounds, pressure ulcers are one of the most common types of complex wound. The efficacy and the tolerability of chitosan gel formulation, prepared into the hospital pharmacy, in the treatment of pressure ulcers of moderate severity were evaluated. The endpoint of this phase II study was the reduction of the area of the lesion by at least 20% after four weeks of treatment. Thus, 20 adult volunteers with pressure ulcers within predetermined parameters were involved in a 30 days study. Dressing change was performed twice a week at outpatient clinic upon chronic wounds management. In the 90% of patients involved in the study, the treatment was effective, with a reduction of the area of the lesion and wound healing progress. The study demonstrated the efficacy of the gel formulation for treatment of pressure ulcers, also providing a strong reduction of patient management costs.
Effects of Pharmacists’ Interventions on Inappropriate Drug Use and Drug-Related Readmissions in People with Dementia—A Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Gustafsson Maria , Sjölander Maria , Pfister Bettina , Schneede Jörn , Lövheim Hugo
Published: January 2018

Age-associated physiological changes and extensive drug treatment including use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) pose a significant risk of drug–drug interactions and adverse drug events among elderly people with dementia. This study aimed at analysing the effects of clinical pharmacists’ interventions on use of PIMs, risk of emergency department visits, and time to institutionalization. Furthermore, a descriptive analysis was conducted of circumstances associated with drug-related readmissions. This is a secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled intervention study conducted in two hospitals in Northern Sweden. The study included patients (n = 460) 65 years or older with dementia or cognitive impairment. The intervention consisted of comprehensive medication reviews conducted by clinical pharmacists as part of a healthcare team. There was a larger decrease in PIMs in the intervention group compared with the control group (p = 0.011). No significant difference was found in time to first all-cause emergency department visits (HR = 0.994, 95% CI = 0.755–1.307 p = 0.963, simple Cox regression) or time to institutionalization (HR = 0.761, 95% CI = 0.409–1.416 p = 0.389, simple Cox regression) within 180 days. Common reasons for drug-related readmissions were negative effects of sedatives, opioids, antidepressants, and anticholinergic agents, resulting in confusion, falling, and sedation. Drug-related readmissions were associated with living at home, heart failure, and diabetes. Pharmacist-provided interventions were able to reduce PIMs among elderly people with dementia and cognitive impairment.
Microphase Segregation of Diblock Copolymers Studied by the Self-Consistent Field Theory of Scheutjens and Fleer
Authors: Mocan Merve , Kamperman Marleen , Leermakers Frans
Published: January 2018

We used the self-consistent field (SCF) formalism of Scheutjens and Fleer (SF-SCF) to complement existing theoretical investigations on the phase behavior of block copolymer melts. This method employs the freely jointed chain (FJC) model for finite chain length and systematic differences exist compared to the classical SCF predictions. We focus on the critical and hexagonal (HEX) to lamellar (LAM) phase transition region at intermediate and strong segregations. Chain length (N) dependence of the critical point ( χ c r ) was found to be χ c r N = 10.495 ( 1 + 4 / N ) . The characteristic spacing (D) of LAM was found as D = 4 / 3 N at the critical conditions. We present SF-SCF predictions for the phases single gyroid (SG), double gyroid (DG) and hexagonally perforated lamellar (HPL), in the region where HEX and LAM compete. At χ N = 30 , N = 300 ; we found SG and HPL were metastable with respect to LAM or HEX, DG was stable in a narrow region of the asymmetry ratio. In contrast to the latest predictions, at strong segregation χ N = 120 , DG was found to be metastable. From the structural evolution of HPL, we speculate that this may be an intermediate phase that allows the system to go through various connectivity regimes between minority and majority blocks.
Electrical, Mechanical and Electromechanical Properties of Graphene-Thermoset Polymer Composites Produced Using Acetone-DMF Solvents
Authors: D’Aloia Alessandro , Proietti Alessandro , Bidsorkhi Hossein , Tamburrano Alessio , De Bellis Giovanni , Marra Fabrizio , Bregnocchi Agnese , Sarto Maria
Published: January 2018

Recently, graphene-polymer composites gained a central role in advanced stress and strain sensing. A fundamental step in the production of epoxy-composites filled with graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) consists in the exfoliation and dispersion of expanded graphite in a proper solvent, in the mixing of the resulting GNP suspension with the polymer matrix, and in the final removal of the solvent from the composite before curing through evaporation. The effects of traces of residual solvent on polymer curing process are usually overlooked, even if it has been found that even a small amount of residual solvent can affect the mechanical properties of the final composite. In this paper, we show that residual traces of N,N′-Dimethylformamide (DMF) in vinylester epoxy composites can induce relevant variations of the electrical, mechanical and electromechanical properties of the cured GNP-composite. To this purpose, a complete analysis of the morphological and structural characteristics of the composite samples produced using different solvent mixtures (combining acetone and DMF) is performed. Moreover, electrical, mechanical and electromechanical properties of the produced composites are assessed. In particular, the effect on the piezoresistive response of the use of DMF in the solvent mixture is analyzed using an experimental strain dependent percolation law to fit the measured electromechanical data. It is shown that the composites realized using a higher amount of DMF are characterized by a higher electrical conductivity and by a strong reduction of Young’s Modulus.
Quartz Microcrystal-Hybridized Organosilicone Encapsulant with Enhanced Optical and Thermal Performances
Authors: Chen Xin , Feng Yancong , Wang Xiao , Li En , Wang Yao , Shui Lingling , Li Hao , Li Nan , Zhou Guofu
Published: January 2018

Encapsulant is one determining factor underpinning the device lifetimes of organic optoelectronics. However, encapsulant seriously needs improvement in optical, thermal, and mechanical properties, especially to develop organic light emitting diodes. In this study, we prepared an in situ crosslinked organosilane composite containing benzyloxy and glycidyl-modified quartz microcrystal (mQMC) as high performance encapsulant. In the present work, methylphenylsilanediol (MPSD) was introduced as a novel crosslinker to impart appropriate structural strength. Along with increasing mQMC fillers, this organosilane system shows improved properties, such as refractive index, thermal stability, and storage modulus. Specifically, these hybridized mQMCs in the organosilane framework may facilitate an approximate two-fold increase (0.238 W/(m·K)) in overall thermal conductivity at the determined concentration.
The Effect of Reactive Ionic Liquid or Plasticizer Incorporation on the Physicochemical and Transport Properties of Cellulose Acetate Propionate-Based Membranes
Authors: Rynkowska Edyta , Fatyeyeva Kateryna , Kujawa Joanna , Dzieszkowski Krzysztof , Wolan Andrzej , Kujawski Wojciech
Published: January 2018

Pervaporation is a membrane-separation technique which uses polymeric and/or ceramic membranes. In the case of pervaporation processes applied to dehydration, the membrane should transport water molecules preferentially. Reactive ionic liquid (RIL) (3-(1,3-diethoxy-1,3-dioxopropan-2-yl)-1-methyl-1H-imidazol-3-ium) was used to prepare novel dense cellulose acetate propionate (CAP) based membranes, applying the phase-inversion method. The designed polymer-ionic liquid system contained ionic liquid partially linked to the polymeric structure via the transesterification reaction. The various physicochemical, mechanical, equilibrium and transport properties of CAP-RIL membranes were determined and compared with the properties of CAP membranes modified with plasticizers, i.e., tributyl citrate (TBC) and acetyl tributyl citrate (ATBC). Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) testified that CAP-RIL membranes as well as CAP membranes modified with TBC and ATBC are thermally stable up to at least 120 °C. Tensile tests of the membranes revealed improved mechanical properties reflected by reduced brittleness and increased elongation at break achieved for CAP-RIL membranes in contrast to pristine CAP membranes. RIL plasticizes the CAP matrix, and CAP-RIL membranes possess preferable mechanical properties in comparison to membranes with other plasticizers investigated. The incorporation of RIL into CAP membranes tuned the surface properties of the membranes, enhancing their hydrophilic character. Moreover, the addition of RIL into CAP resulted in an excellent improvement of the separation factor, in comparison to pristine CAP membranes, in pervaporation dehydration of propan-2-ol. The separation factor β increased from ca. 10 for pristine CAP membrane to ca. 380 for CAP-16.7-RIL membranes contacting an azeotropic composition of water-propan-2-ol mixture (i.e., 12 wt % water).
Mechanical Properties Changes of Irradiated Thermoplastic Elastomer
Authors: Manas David , Mizera Ales , Manas Miroslav , Ovsik Martin , Hylova Lenka , Sehnalek Stanislav , Stoklasek Pavel
Published: January 2018

Some polymers need a cross-linking agent for the controlled cross-linking process of polymers with a tendency to degradation during the radiation cross-linking process. While, on the other hand, other polymers do not need a cross-linking agent—predominantly there are cross-linking polymers. The Thermo-Plastic Elastomer (TPE) that was used belongs to this group of predominantly cross-linking polymers; however, this agent is added because of faster reaction times and smaller irradiation doses. Microindentation–tensile and tensile impact tests were carried out on a thermoplastic sample—with, and without, a cross-linking agent. Small changes were measured between these materials at low radiation doses, (up to 66 kGy); nevertheless, at higher doses, the influence of the cross-linking agent on the mechanical properties is significant.
Tree Death Not Resulting in Gap Creation: An Investigation of Canopy Dynamics of Northern Temperate Deciduous Forests
Authors: Senécal Jean-Francois , Doyon Frédérik , Messier Christian
Published: January 2018

Several decades of research have shown that canopy gaps drive tree renewal processes in the temperate deciduous forest biome. In the literature, canopy gaps are usually defined as canopy openings that are created by partial or total tree death of one or more canopy trees. In this study, we investigate linkages between tree damage mechanisms and the formation or not of new canopy gaps in northern temperate deciduous forests. We studied height loss processes in unmanaged and managed forests recovering from partial cutting with multi-temporal airborne Lidar data. The Lidar dataset was used to detect areas where canopy height reduction occurred, which were then field-studied to identify the tree damage mechanisms implicated. We also sampled the density of leaf material along transects to characterize canopy structure. We used the dataset of the canopy height reduction areas in a multi-model inference analysis to determine whether canopy structures or tree damage mechanisms most influenced the creation of new canopy gaps within canopy height reduction areas. According to our model, new canopy gaps are created mainly when canopy damage enlarges existing gaps or when height is reduced over areas without an already established dense sub-canopy tree layer.
The HydroColor App: Above Water Measurements of Remote Sensing Reflectance and Turbidity Using a Smartphone Camera
Authors: Leeuw Thomas , Boss Emmanuel
Published: January 2018

HydroColor is a mobile application that utilizes a smartphone’s camera and auxiliary sensors to measure the remote sensing reflectance of natural water bodies. HydroColor uses the smartphone’s digital camera as a three-band radiometer. Users are directed by the application to collect a series of three images. These images are used to calculate the remote sensing reflectance in the red, green, and blue broad wavelength bands. As with satellite measurements, the reflectance can be inverted to estimate the concentration of absorbing and scattering substances in the water, which are predominately composed of suspended sediment, chlorophyll, and dissolved organic matter. This publication describes the measurement method and investigates the precision of HydroColor’s reflectance and turbidity estimates compared to commercial instruments. It is shown that HydroColor can measure the remote sensing reflectance to within 26% of a precision radiometer and turbidity within 24% of a portable turbidimeter. HydroColor distinguishes itself from other water quality camera methods in that its operation is based on radiometric measurements instead of image color. HydroColor is one of the few mobile applications to use a smartphone as a completely objective sensor, as opposed to subjective user observations or color matching using the human eye. This makes HydroColor a powerful tool for crowdsourcing of aquatic optical data.
Addressing Differences in Safety Influencing Factors—A Comparison of Offshore and Onshore Helicopter Operations
Authors: Bye Rolf , Johnsen Stig , Lillehammer Grethe
Published: January 2018

The accident levels in helicopter transportation vary between geographical regions and types of operations. In this paper, we develop some hypotheses regarding the factors that may explain this variation. The aim of this paper is to improve safety in helicopter transportation through better understanding of the causes leading to fatal accidents. We provide an analysis of three segments of helicopter transportation in Norway (i.e., offshore transportation; onshore ambulance/police, and onshore transportation). This analysis refers to international research on helicopter accidents. The number of fatal accidents per million flight hours in Norwegian offshore helicopter transportation was 2.8 in 1990–1999 and zero in 2000–2015. In Norwegian onshore helicopter transportation, the fatal accident rate was 13.8 in the period 2000–2012. Twenty-three onshore helicopters crashed to the ground; seven of these crashes were fatal, killing 16 people. It is reasonable to question why there is such a significant difference in accident rates between offshore and onshore helicopter transportation. We have approached this question by comparing how the different segments of helicopter transportation are organized and managed. Our analysis shows that there are major differences both at the “sharp” end (i.e., in actual operations) and the “blunt” end (i.e., rules, regulations and organization). This includes differences in regulations, market conditions, work organization (i.e., training, employment conditions, and qualifications of the crews), operations and technology. A central argument is that differences in the market conditions and requirements stipulated by the users explain some of these differences. The same differences can be found internationally. If we use best practice and expert judgments, there is an opportunity to improve helicopter safety through improving the socio-technical system (i.e., organizational issues, improved design, improved maintenance of critical components and more focus on operational factors). A reasonable goal is that the international helicopter transportation industry could reduce the accident level to less than one fatal accident per million flight hours (Considering the oil and gas industry internationally, this would reduce the average of 24 fatalities annually to 4 per year, thus saving 20 lives each year).
Resting Hormone Alterations and Injuries: Block vs. DUP Weight-Training among D-1 Track and Field Athletes
Authors: Painter Keith , Haff G. , Triplett N. , Stuart Charles , Hornsby Guy , Ramsey Mike , Bazyler Caleb , Stone Michael
Published: January 2018

Daily undulating periodization (DUP), using daily alterations in repetitions, has been advocated as a superior method of resistance training, while traditional forms of programming for periodization (Block) have been questioned. Nineteen Division I track and field athletes were assigned to either a 10-week Block or DUP training group. Year and event were controlled. Over the course of the study, there were four testing sessions, which were used to evaluate a variety of strength characteristics, including maximum isometric strength, rate of force development, and one repetition maximum (1RM). Although, performance trends favored the Block group for strength and rate of force development, no statistical differences were found between the two groups. However, different (p ≤ 0.05) estimated volumes of work (VL) and amounts of improvement per VL were found between groups. Based upon calculated training efficiency scores, these data indicate that a Block training model is more efficient in producing strength gains than a DUP model. Additionally, alterations in testosterone (T), cortisol (C) and the T:C ratio were measured. Although there were no statistically (p ≤ 0.05) different hormone alterations between groups, relationships between training variables and hormone concentrations including the T:C ratio, indicate that Block may be more efficacious in terms of fatigue management.
The Tax Burden on Wastewater and the Protection of Water Ecosystems in EU Countries
Authors: Gallego Valero Leticia , Moral Pajares Encarnación , Román Sánchez Isabel
Published: January 2018

80% of all wastewater is discharged into the environment without first eliminating contaminants, and the consequences are cause for concern. The ecotaxes levied on effluents in many developed countries are aimed at preventing and minimizing water pollution and also, in part, helping to finance proper water reclamation facilities. The aim of this study is to conduct a comparative analysis of the current tax burden in a set of European Union countries on wastewater discharges and to assess its relationship with the quality of fresh water and other economic and political variables. The paper draws on different theoretical arguments and estimates a panel data model to verify the effectiveness of taxes in protecting aquatic ecosystems. These taxes are directly dependent on the environmental health status of water and inversely linked to the volume of discharged wastewater. In addition, a direct relationship is found between the tax burden on wastewater discharges and the variables representing the Human Development Index, the per capita expenditure on protecting water resources, the relative weight of ecotaxes in a country’s total tax revenues, and public support for green political movements.
Research on the Renewable Energy Industry Financing Efficiency Assessment and Mode Selection
Authors: Lyu Xiaohuan , Shi Anna
Published: January 2018

In recent years, environmental issues are attracting widespread attention by various countries around the world. In this context, the renewable energy industry has become a stimulus point for economic development and has great potential for development. Renewable energy industry financing is difficult due to its characteristics of high risk and long-term investment returns, and relying on existing financing channels make it present a glut of excess capacity. It is key to realize resource optimal allocation, solve overcapacity phenomenon and select the valid financing mode. This paper used Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF) data and the data envelopment analysis (DEA) method to analyze the financing efficiency different parts of the global renewable energy industry and different ways of financing. It could be found that although the financing efficiency showed a trend of increasing year by year, the financing efficiency of each industry presented generally weak DEA efficiency, the comprehensive financing efficiency of wind power industry was higher. The article also found that the financing efficiency of project financing and Research and Development (R&D) were relatively high, and the equity market and venture capital and private equity were less efficient. The results of this paper play an important role in the overall financing status cognizance of the renewable energy industry and give suggestions about valid financing mode choice.
e-Purchase Intention of Taiwanese Consumers: Sustainable Mediation of Perceived Usefulness and Perceived Ease of Use
Authors: Moslehpour Massoud , Pham Van , Wong Wing-Keung , Bilgiçli İsmail
Published: January 2018

This study proposes a new model by partially combining personality traits (PT) and Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) attributes to examine the influences of personality characteristics (conscientiousness, openness) and perception of technology (perceived usefulness, perceives ease of use) on e-purchase intention. We use truncate sampling technique and survey questionnaire to target the sample of Taiwanese online consumers and collect data. We find that consciousness (CON) (personality attribute) significantly influences perceived usefulness (PU) (technology perception attributes), perceived ease of use (PEOU) (technology perception attributes) and openness to experience (OPE) (personality attribute). PU, PEOU and OPE have significant impacts on e-purchase intention (INT). PEOU has the strongest positive impact on (INT). In addition, PU, PEOU and OPE combined together mediate the relationship between CON and INT. Further post hoc analysis of the mediation shows that both PU and PEOU are sustainable mediators. However, OPE is not a significant mediator.
A Review of Scrub Typhus (Orientia tsutsugamushi and Related Organisms): Then, Now, and Tomorrow
Authors: Luce-Fedrow Alison , Lehman Marcie , Kelly Daryl , Mullins Kristin , Maina Alice , Stewart Richard , Ge Hong , John Heidi , Jiang Ju , Richards Allen
Published: January 2018

Scrub typhus and the rickettsial diseases represent some of the oldest recognized vector-transmitted diseases, fraught with a rich historical aspect, particularly as applied to military/wartime situations. The vectors of Orientia tsutsugamushi were once thought to be confined to an area designated as the Tsutsugamushi Triangle. However, recent reports of scrub typhus caused by Orientia species other than O. tsutsugamushi well beyond the limits of the Tsutsugamushi Triangle have triggered concerns about the worldwide presence of scrub typhus. It is not known whether the vectors of O. tsutsugamushi will be the same for the new Orientia species, and this should be a consideration during outbreak/surveillance investigations. Additionally, concerns surrounding the antibiotic resistance of O. tsutsugamushi have led to considerations for the amendment of treatment protocols, and the need for enhanced public health awareness in both the civilian and medical professional communities. In this review, we discuss the history, outbreaks, antibiotic resistance, and burgeoning genomic advances associated with one of the world’s oldest recognized vector-borne pathogens, O. tsutsugamushi.
How Does Changing Ice-Out Affect Arctic versus Boreal Lakes? A Comparison Using Two Years with Ice-Out that Differed by More Than Three Weeks
Authors: Warner Kate , Fowler Rachel , Northington Robert , Malik Heera , McCue Joan , Saros Jasmine
Published: January 2018

The timing of lake ice-out has advanced substantially in many regions of the Northern Hemisphere, however the effects of ice-out timing on lake properties and how they vary regionally remain unclear. Using data from two inter-annual monitoring datasets for a set of three Arctic lakes and one boreal lake, we compared physical, chemical and phytoplankton metrics from two years in which ice-out timing differed by at least three weeks. Our results revealed regional differences in lake responses during early compared to late ice-out years. With earlier ice-out, Arctic lakes had deeper mixing depths and the boreal lake had a shallower mixing depth, suggesting differing patterns in the influence of the timing of ice-out on the length of spring turnover. Differences in nutrient concentrations and dissolved organic carbon between regions and ice-out years were likely driven by changes in precipitation and permafrost thaw. Algal biomass was similar across ice-out years, while cell densities of key Cyclotella sensu lato taxa were strongly linked to thermal structure changes in the Arctic lakes. Our research provides evidence that Arctic and boreal regions differ in lake response in early and late ice-out years, however ultimately a combination of important climate factors such as solar insolation, air temperature, precipitation, and, in the Arctic, permafrost thaw, are key drivers of the observed responses.
Electron Acceleration by Dipolarization Fronts and Magnetic Reconnection: A Quantitative Comparison
Authors: Xu Y. , Fu H. S. , Liu C. M. , Wang T. Y.
Published: January 2018

Suprathermal electrons with energy from tens to hundreds of keV are frequently observed in the Earth's magnetotail. The generation of such electrons is typically attributed to magnetic reconnection, dipolarization fronts (DFs), or flux transport. However, which of these contributes more to this generation remains unclear. In this study, we quantitatively compare the electron acceleration by these processes, using the Cluster data. We analyze an event detected in the midtail and find that the suprathermal electrons there are first accelerated by magnetic reconnection and transported earthward, and then further accelerated locally at the DF. The acceleration process by reconnection and transport, resulting in an isotropic pitch angle distribution, contributes ∼70% to the total flux enhancement, while the acceleration process by the DF, resulting in a pancake distribution, contributes ∼30% to the flux enhancement. The electron acceleration at the DF is primarily attributed to a local betatron process that is successfully reproduced using an analytic model. In order to better understand this phenomenon, we examine an additional 16 similar events and find that the DFs and magnetic reconnection statistically contribute 11% ∼ 38% and 62% ∼ 89% to the total flux enhancement, respectively. This study greatly improves our understanding of the electron energization process in the magnetotail.
On the Nature of Orion Source I
Authors: Báez-Rubio A. , Jiménez-Serra I. , Martín-Pintado J. , Zhang Q. , Curiel S.
Published: January 2018

The Kleinmann–Low nebula in Orion, the closest region of massive star formation, harbors Source I, whose nature is under debate. Knowledge of this source may have profound implications for our understanding of the energetics of the hot core in Orion KL since it might be the main heating source in the region. The spectral energy distribution of this source in the radio is characterized by a positive spectral index close to 2, which is consistent with (i) thermal bremsstrahlung emission of ionized hydrogen gas produced by a central massive protostar, or (ii) photospheric bremsstrahlung emission produced by electrons when deflected by the interaction with neutral and molecular hydrogen like Mira-like variable stars. If ionized hydrogen gas were responsible for the observed continuum emission, its modeling would predict detectable emission from hydrogen radio recombination lines (RRLs). However, our SMA observations were obtained with a high enough sensitivity to rule out that the radio continuum emission arises from a dense hypercompact H ii region because the H26α line would have been detected, in contrast with our observations. To explain the observational constraints, we investigate further the nature of the radio continuum emission from source I. We have compared available radio continuum data with the predictions from our upgraded non-LTE 3D radiative transfer model, MOdel for REcombination LInes, to show that radio continuum fluxes and sizes can only be reproduced by assuming both dust and bremsstrahlung emission from neutral gas. The dust emission contribution is significant at ν ≥ 43 GHz. In addition, our RRL peak intensity predictions for the ionized metals case are consistent with the nondetection of Na and K RRLs at millimeter and submillimeter wavelengths.
A Comparison of Maps and Power Spectra Determined from South Pole Telescope and Planck Data
Authors: Hou Z. , Aylor K. , Benson B. A. , Bleem L. E. , Carlstrom J. E. , Chang C. L. , Cho H-M. , Chown R. , Crawford T. M. , Crites A. T. , de Haan T. , Dobbs M. A. , Everett W. B. , Follin B. , George E. M. , Halverson N. W. , Harrington N. L. , Holder G. P. , Holzapfel W. L. , Hrubes J. D. , Keisler R. , Knox L. , Lee A. T. , Leitch E. M. , Luong-Van D. , Marrone D. P. , McMahon J. J. , Meyer S. S. , Millea M. , Mocanu L. M. , Mohr J. J. , Natoli T. , Omori Y. , Padin S. , Pryke C. , Reichardt C. L. , Ruhl J. E. , Sayre J. T. , Schaffer K. K. , Shirokoff E. , Staniszewski Z. , Stark A. A. , Story K. T. , Vanderlinde K. , Vieira J. D. , Williamson R.
Published: January 2018

We study the consistency of 150 GHz data from the South Pole Telescope (SPT) and 143 GHz data from the Planck satellite over the patch of sky covered by the SPT-SZ survey. We first visually compare the maps and find that the residuals appear consistent with noise after accounting for differences in angular resolution and filtering. We then calculate (1) the cross-spectrum between two independent halves of SPT data, (2) the cross-spectrum between two independent halves of Planck data, and (3) the cross-spectrum between SPT and Planck data. We find that the three cross-spectra are well fit (PTE = 0.30) by the null hypothesis in which both experiments have measured the same sky map up to a single free calibration parameter—i.e., we find no evidence for systematic errors in either data set. As a by-product, we improve the precision of the SPT calibration by nearly an order of magnitude, from 2.6% to 0.3% in power. Finally, we compare all three cross-spectra to the full-sky Planck power spectrum and find marginal evidence for differences between the power spectra from the SPT-SZ footprint and the full sky. We model these differences as a power law in spherical harmonic multipole number. The best-fit value of this tilt is consistent among the three cross-spectra in the SPT-SZ footprint, implying that the source of this tilt is a sample variance fluctuation in the SPT-SZ region relative to the full sky. The consistency of cosmological parameters derived from these data sets is discussed in a companion paper.
A Quasi-periodic Fast-propagating Magnetosonic Wave Associated with the Eruption of a Magnetic Flux Rope
Authors: Shen Yuandeng , Liu Yu , Song Tengfei , Tian Zhanjun
Published: January 2018

Using high temporal and high spatial resolution observations taken by the Atmospheric Imaging Assembly on board the Solar Dynamics Observatory, we present a detailed observational analysis of a high-quality quasi-periodic fast-propagating (QFP) magnetosonic wave that was associated with the eruption of a magnetic flux rope and a GOES C5.0 flare. For the first time, we find that the QFP wave lasted for the entire flare lifetime rather than only during the rising phase of the accompanying flare, as reported in previous studies. In addition, the propagation of the different parts of the wave train showed different kinematics and morphologies. For the southern (northern) part, the speed, duration, and intensity variation are about 875 ± 29 (1485 ± 233) km s−1, 45 (60) minutes, and 4% (2%), and their pronounced periods are 106 ± 12 and 160 ± 18 (75 ± 10 and 120 ± 16) s, respectively. It is interesting that the northern part of the wave train showed an obvious refraction effect when it passed through a region of strong magnetic field. The result of a periodicity analysis indicates that all of the periods of the QFP wave can be found in the period spectrum of the accompanying flare, suggesting their common physical origin. We propose that the quasi-periodic nonlinear magnetohydrodynamics process in the magnetic reconnection that produces the accompanying flare should be important in exciting a QFP wave, and the different magnetic distributions along different paths can account for the different speeds and morphology evolution of the wave fronts.
Des rabbins français en Algérie coloniale
Authors: Assan Valérie
Published: January 2018

Cet article met en lumière l’engagement politique d’un petit nombre de rabbins français membres des consistoires en Algérie coloniale pendant la deuxième moitié du xix e siècle : promotion de l’émancipation politique et de l’intégration de la minorité juive, interventions en faveur de l’application de la législation française malmenée par certaines pratiques arbitraires de l’administration coloniale, lutte confidentielle contre l’antisémitisme pendant la « crise anti-juive » de la fin du siècle.
Penser les vulnérabilités économiques
Authors: Pollin Jean-Paul
Published: January 2018

Cet article se propose de montrer que la compréhension et la résolution des vulnérabilités économiques ne peut se faire sans prendre en compte les relations sociales auxquelles elles sont associées. À cette fin nous opposons dans un premier temps deux conceptions de la coordination des décisions économiques individuelles. Puis nous tentons de montrer que ces deux conceptions débouchent sur des propositions différentes, voire contradictoires, des politiques économiques. Nous illustrons ensuite notre propos en prenant trois exemples qui font ressortir que ce sont les faiblesses du lien social, bien plus que les imperfections de marchés, qui expliquent certaines des vulnérabilités majeures auxquelles nous avons à faire face.
Rethinking macroeconomic theory before the next crisis
Authors: Lavoie Marc
Published: January 2018

Misguided economics policies relying on an unrealistic macroeconomic theory that denied the possibility of a crisis are at the origins of the global financial crisis. The goal of the present paper is to recall how the end of the Great Moderation has been interpreted by the advocates of mainstream economics, and how they have questioned their own macroeconomic theories as a consequence of what happened during and after the financial crisis. There is thus a need to reconsider most aspects of mainstream theory. In particular, the crisis has once more demonstrated that potential output is influenced by aggregate demand – a phenomenon associated with hysteresis, which also questions concepts such as the natural rate of interest and crowding-out effects.
The US dollar and its payments system: architecture and political implications
Authors: Faudot Adrien
Published: January 2018

We aim here to study the frame within which the US dollar circulates, while questioning the role of the main operators which constitute the cross-border dollar payments architecture. The current dollar standard, however, allows the country which issues the currency and centralizes its payment system, through central-bank money emissions, to wield it as a political weapon and as a means to reach political standardization. Envisioning money as a payment system, this paper sheds light on the flaws inherent in the dollar payment system by emphasizing its asymmetrical nature and its reliance on a national payment system rather than on a truly international one.