bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts and prognosis of natural resource development on water and wetlands in Canada’s boreal zone
Authors: Webster Kara L. , Beall Frederick D. , Creed Irena F. , Kreutzweiser David P.
Published: February 2015

Industrial development within Canada’s boreal zone has increased in recent decades. Forest management activities, pulp and paper operations, electric power generation, mining, conventional oil and gas extraction, nonconventional oil sand development, and peat mining occur throughout the boreal zone with varying impacts on water resources. We review impacts of these industries on surface water, groundwater, and wetlands recognizing that heterogeneity in the dominance of different hydrologic processes (i.e., precipitation, evapotranspiration, groundwater recharge, and runoff generation) across the boreal zone influences the degree of impacts on water resources. Through the application of best management practices, forest certification programs, and science-based guidelines, timber, pulp and paper, and peat industries have reduced their impacts on water resources, although uncertainties remain about long-term recovery following disturbance. Hydroelectric power developments have moved toward reducing reservoir size and creating more natural flow regimes, although impacts of aging infrastructure and dam decommissioning is largely unknown. Mineral and metal mining industries have improved regulation and practices, but the legacy of abandoned mines across the boreal zone still presents an ongoing risk to water resources. Oil and gas industries, including non-conventional resources such as oil sands, is one of the largest industrial users of water and, while significant progress has been made in reducing water use, more work is needed to ensure the protection of water resources. All industries contribute to atmospheric deposition of pollutants that may eventually be released to downstream waters. Although most industrial sectors strive to improve their environmental performance with regards to water resources, disruptions to natural flow regimes and risks of degraded water quality exist at local to regional scales in the boreal zone. Addressing the emerging challenge of managing the expanding, intensifying, and cumulative effects of industries in conjunction with other stressors, such as climate change and atmospheric pollution, across the landscape will aid in preserving Canada’s rich endowment of water resources.
Observation, simulation and optimization of the movement of passengers with baggage in railway station
Authors: Fang Zhi Ming , Lv Wei , Jiang Li-Xue , Xu Qing-Feng , Song Wei-Guo
Published: February 2015

To propose method that can optimize the movement efficiency of passengers in the railway station and then guarantee the personal security under emergency case, we did experimental and modeling research on the movement behavior and characteristics of the passengers in a railway station. Observation experiments were conducted to analyze the process of passengers catching trains and leaving the station, through which, the phenomena of lane changing and dislocation were found in a straight channel, and seven categories of baggage were also identified in the crowd. Analysis shows that personal speed would rise as the increasing size of the baggage. A modified lattice gas model focus on the passengers carrying baggage was further built to study passengers movement characteristics. Using this model, the effect of pause probability of passengers and the effect of channel width on movement efficiency were analyzed, according to which, a management strategy to promote the flow rate of crowd in railway station was proposed. This study may be useful to study on evacuation of the railway station, control of the passengers and formulate pre-proposal on emergency evacuation.
Size and shape dependence of Debye temperature and Raman frequency of nanomaterials
Authors: Kumar Raghuvesh , Bhatt Sandhya , Kumar Munish
Published: February 2015

A simple theoretical model is developed to study the size and shape dependence of Debye temperature and Raman frequency of nanomaterial. We have studied the effect of size and shape on Debye temperature of nanocrystalline Fe , Co , Al and Ag . The model is extended to study the effect of size and shape on the Raman frequency of nanocrystalline SnO 2, CeO 2 and CdSe . The results obtained are compared with the available experimental data. A good agreement between the theory and experimental data supports the validity of the model developed. We also report the results for nanowire and nanofilm in the absence of experimental data, which may help the researchers engaged in the experimental studies.
Feed-Forward Slope Compensated PFC for Chaos Control
Authors: Li Ya-Ni , Yang Yin-Tang , Zhu Zhang-Ming , Zhang Chao-Lin
Published: February 2015

Based on the dual-loop control peak current mode power factor correction (PFC) converter, a feed-forward slope compensation method is proposed, which could regulate the compensated slope real-time and suppress the loop perturbation, thus controlling chaos of the system for better stability. A dual-loop Boost PFC model with the feed-forward slope compensation is built to analyze the nonlinear phenomena in system, and the corresponding circuit structure is presented. The chaos control ability of the feed-forward slope compensation is studied theoretically, and the relation of compensated slope and feed-forward signal is deduced, as well as slope stability conditions. The simulation and measured results show that this method could effectively suppress system bifurcation and chaos phenomena, and improve the system working range and dynamic response speed, and eliminate the influence on system stability for without compensated, under compensated, and over compensated.
Maximal entanglement entanglement-assisted quantum codes of distance three
Authors: Guo Luobin , Fu Qiang , Li Ruihu , Lu Liangdong
Published: February 2015

Entanglement-assisted quantum error correcting code (EAQECC) is a generalization of standard stabilizer quantum code. Maximal entanglement EAQECCs can achieve the EA-hashing bound asymptotically. In this work, we give elementary recursive constructions of quaternary zero radical codes with dual distance three for all n ≥ 4. Consequently, good maximal entanglement EAQECCs of minimum distance three for such length n are obtained. Almost all of these EAQECCs are optimal or near optimal according to the EA-quantum Hamming bound.
The use of data-mining techniques for developing effective decision support systems: a case study of simulating the effects of climate change on coastal salinity intrusion
Authors: Conrads Paul A. , Roehl Edwin A.
Published: February 2015

Natural-resource managers and stakeholders face difficult challenges when managing interactions between natural and societal systems. Potential changes in climate could alter interactions between environmental and societal systems and adversely affect the availability of water resources in many coastal communities. The availability of freshwater in coastal streams can be threatened by saltwater intrusion. Even though the collective interests and computer skills of the community of managers, scientists and other stakeholders are quite varied, there is an overarching need for equal access by all to the scientific knowledge needed to make the best possible decisions. This paper describes a decision support system, PRISM-2, developed to evaluate salinity intrusion due to potential climate change along the South Carolina coast in southeastern USA. The decision support system is disseminated as a spreadsheet application and integrates the output of global circulation models, watershed models and salinity intrusion models with real-time databases for simulation, graphical user interfaces, and streaming displays of results. The results from PRISM-2 showed that a 31-cm and 62-cm increase in sea level reduced the daily availability of freshwater supply to a coastal municipal intake by 4% and 12% of the time, respectively. Future climate change projections by a global circulation model showed a seasonal change in salinity intrusion events from the summer to the fall for the majority of events.
The experimental
in-situ
study of gas migration in crystalline rock with a focus on the EDZ
Authors: Svoboda Jiri , Smutek Jan
Published: February 2015

Centre of Experimental Geotechnics (CEG) participated in the FORGE project within WP4, which was focused on disturbed host rock formations. The Czech deep radioactive repository concept envisages crystalline rock as the host rock environment; therefore the CEG concentrated on such formations. Large-scale gas injection tests were carried out in Josef Underground Laboratory as part of the project aiming to study the behaviour of both the excavation damaged/disturbed zone (EDZ) and the undisturbed rock environment. The project schedule involved the performance of a large number of tests at various pressure levels and flow rates and in different parts of the rock mass. The various phenomena were studied employing gas injection test techniques using both single- and double-packer equipment. The tests performed revealed a significant difference in terms of gas permeability between the EDZ and the undisturbed rock mass. An investigation of the influence of the effect of pressure on gas permeability was also performed in order to study the process of the opening and closing of fractures (pathway dilation).
Cooperation, coordination and team issues in disaster management: the need for a holistic and integrated approach
Authors: Parkash Surya
Published: February 2015

Disaster management requires not only efficient technical, administrative, financial and legal systems within the affected community but also a strong political, socio-cultural and ethical framework. Although it is possible to improve the systems through the implementation of guidelines, plans, procedures, codes and other regulatory measures, it is difficult to change the attitude of the individuals, community, executives and the political leaders that affects the working environment and functional capabilities of these systems. In such situations, ethical practices and moral values play an important role in positively nurturing the environment. The experiences often reveal a lack of good cooperation, coordination and team spirit among different stakeholders, leading to unnecessary delays and inaction or wrong actions for disaster management. The approach is mostly ad-hoc, isolated and uncoordinated. There is hardly any networking, linkage and coordination to work in a multidisciplinary and integrated manner. However, the recent policies and strategies related to disaster risk reduction are now focusing on a systematic way of coordination, linkage and networking for sharing information on resources, knowledge and practices. This paper illustrates the relevant issues with examples from some popular stories/poems that will help the reader to understand the significance of these issues.
BCI Promises in Emotional Involvement in Music and Games
Authors: Folgieri Raffaella , Zampolini Roberto
Published: February 2015

The reliability of commercial non-invasive BCI (brain computer Interface) devices and the lower cost of these EEG-based systems, as well as the equipment's portability, determined the increasing interest in their application in different research fields. The latter feature makes BCI devices particularly suited for entertainment applications, especially given the possibility to detect the mental state of the users. The relationship between emotions and entertainment is obvious, as is the influence of music in human emotional states. While BCI devices represent a challenge in gaming motion control, they have been successfully applied in music production [Dan et al. 2009] and composition [Hamadicharef et al. 2010]. In our previous work [Conscious and unconscious music from the brain in press] we focused on conscious production of music notes with the aim of developing a prototype for applications in entertainment. In this work we trace the state-of-the art of our research and present our opinion on possible applications of the preliminary results.
Using a Combination of Micro--Computed Tomography, CAD and 3D Printing Techniques to Reconstruct Incomplete 19th-Century Cantonese Chess Pieces
Authors: Laycock S. D. , Bell G. D. , Corps N. , Mortimore D. B. , Cox G. , May S. , Finkel I.
Published: February 2015

As scanning technologies improve new approaches to digitizing cultural heritage artefacts emerge. The use of micro--computed tomography (micro-CT) presents an interesting approach as it is capable of high-resolution scans of not just the surface of the artifact but also the intricate internal structures and volumes leading to more complete digitization than is possible with traditional surface laser scanning techniques. In this work, we investigate the potential to digitize heritage artifacts using micro-CT and focus on the methods of interacting with the datasets to create digital restorations of broken and incomplete pieces before printing physical replicas using 3D printing technology. We visualize the virtual models with clear identification of the new portions added by a digital artist with reference to existing pieces and archives.
Design Techniques for Planning Navigational Systems in 3-D Video Games
Authors: Moura Dinara , El-Nasr Magy Seif
Published: February 2015

Navigation is an essential element of many high-budget games (known as AAA titles). In such products, players are expected to walk through and interact with aesthetically rich 3-D spaces. Therefore, designers should provide meaningful information to guide the users within a challenging environment. While there has been much research on both games and 3-D environments, there is very little research investigating design techniques used to guide players through 3-D game worlds. This paper is focused on proposing a set of navigational patterns or techniques currently used in commercial 3-D action-adventure titles. These design techniques are composed of [a] 21 patterns used to aid navigation, [b] three level design choices affecting navigation, and [c] eight game mechanics related to navigation. We uncovered these design techniques through a detailed analysis of 21 3-D action-adventure games. This contribution has several important facets. First, the set of design techniques and terminology proposed here can be used as a training construct to teach 3-D game and environment design. Second, it can also be used as a toolset for designers. Third, it will provide an important start for a formal vocabulary that can be used by designers and researchers discussing navigation in 3-D games.
Estimation in Step-Stress Accelerated Life Tests for Power Generalized Weibull Distribution with Progressive Censoring
Authors: Mohie EL-Din M. M. , Abu-Youssef S. E. , Ali Nahed S. A. , Abd El-Raheem A. M.
Published: February 2015

Based on progressive censoring, step-stress partially accelerated life tests are considered when the lifetime of a product follows power generalized Weibull distribution. The maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) and Bayes estimates (BEs) are obtained for the distribution parameters and the acceleration factor. In addition, the approximate and bootstrap confidence intervals (CIs) of the estimators are presented. Furthermore, the optimal stress change time for the step-stress partially accelerated life test is determined by minimizing the asymptotic variance of MLEs of the model parameters and the acceleration factor. Simulation results are carried out to study the precision of the MLEs and BEs for the parameters involved.
Associations of Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Intake with Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Harris Margaret , Farrell Vanessa , Houtkooper Linda , Going Scott , Lohman Timothy
Published: February 2015

A secondary analysis of cross-sectional data was analyzed from 6 cohorts (Fall 1995–Fall 1997) of postmenopausal women (n=266;56.6±4.7years) participating in the Bone Estrogen Strength Training (BEST) study (a 12-month, block-randomized, clinical trial). Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured at femur neck and trochanter, lumbar spine (L2–L4), and total body BMD using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA). Mean dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) intakes were assessed using 8 days of diet records. Multiple linear regression was used to examine associations between dietary PUFAs and BMD. Covariates included in the models were total energy intake, body weight at year 1, years after menopause, exercise, use of hormone therapy (HT), total calcium, and total iron intakes. In the total sample, lumbar spine and total body BMD had significant negative associations with dietary PUFA intake atP<0.05. In the non-HT group, no significant associations between dietary PUFA intake and BMD were seen. In the HT group, significant inverse associations with dietary PUFA intake were seen in the spine, total body, and Ward’s triangle BMD, suggesting that HT may influence PUFA associations with BMD. This study is registered with clinicaltrials.gov, identifier:NCT00000399.
C2-Stably Limit Shadowing Diffeomorphisms
Authors: Lee Manseob , Park Junmi
Published: February 2015

Letfbe a diffeomorphism on aC∞closed surface. In this paper, we show that iffhas theC2-stably limit shadowing property, then we have the following: (i)fsatisfies the Kupka-Smale condition; (ii) ifP(f)is dense in the nonwandering setΩ(f) and if there is a dominated splitting onPs(f), thenfsatisfies both AxiomAand the strong transversality condition.
Sarcomatoid (Spindle Cell) Carcinoma of Tongue: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Reyes Montserrat , Pennacchiotti Gina , Valdes Fabio , Montes Rodrigo , Veloso Marcelo , Matamala Maria Angélica , Zanolli Luis , Rojas-Alcayaga Gonzalo
Published: February 2015

Sarcomatoid Carcinoma (SC) is an unusual and aggressive variant of squamous cell carcinoma, which frequently recurs and metastasizes; for this reason, the right diagnosis is very important. It is considered to be a biphasic tumor made up of cells from squamous and spindle cells carcinoma with a sarcomatous aspect, but of epithelial origin. The diagnosis often represents a clinical-pathological challenge where the study with immunohistochemical technique (IHC) is key to the histopathological diagnosis. The reported cases related to oral mucosa are limited. In this work we present two SC cases where the use of IHC allowed us to achieve a conclusive diagnosis.
Improved RSSI Positioning Algorithm for Coal Mine Underground Locomotive
Authors: Ge Bin , Wang Kai , Han Jianghong , Zhao Bao
Published: February 2015

Aiming at the large positioning errors of traditional coal mine underground locomotive, an improved received signal strength indication (RSSI) positioning algorithm for coal mine underground locomotive was proposed. The RSSI value fluctuates heavily due to the poor environment of coal mine underground. The nodes with larger RSSI value corrected by Gaussian-weighted model were selected as beacon nodes. In order to reduce the positioning error further, the estimated positions of the locomotives were corrected by the weighted distance correction method. The difference between actual position and estimated position of beacon node was regarded as the positioning error and was given a corresponding weight. The results of simulation show that the positioning accuracy of Gaussian-weighted model is better than statistical average model and Gaussian model and it has a high positioning accuracy after correcting positioning error correction. In the 10 m of communication range, positioning error can be maintained at 0.5 m.
A Comparative Numerical Study of the Spectral Theory Approach of Nishimura and the Roots Method Based on the Analysis of BDMMAP/G/1 Queue
Authors: Maity Arunava , Gupta U. C.
Published: February 2015

This paper considers an infinite-buffer queuing system with birth-death modulated Markovian arrival process (BDMMAP) with arbitrary service time distribution. BDMMAP is an excellent representation of the arrival process, where the fractal behavior such as burstiness, correlation, and self-similarity is observed, for example, in ethernet LAN traffic systems. This model was first apprised by Nishimura (2003), and to analyze it, he proposed a twofold spectral theory approach. It seems from the investigations that Nishimura’s approach is tedious and difficult to employ for practical purposes. The objective of this paper is to analyze the same model with an alternative methodology proposed by Chaudhry et al. (2013) (to be referred to as CGG method). The CGG method appears to be rather simple, mathematically tractable, and easy to implement as compared to Nishimura’s approach. The Achilles tendon of the CGG method is the roots of the characteristic equation associated with the probability generating function (pgf) of the queue length distribution, which absolves any eigenvalue algebra and iterative analysis. Both the methods are presented in stepwise manner for easy accessibility, followed by some illustrative examples in accordance with the context.
pVHL/HIF-Regulated CD70 Expression Is Associated with Infiltration of CD27+ Lymphocytes and Increased Serum Levels of Soluble CD27 in Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Ruf Melanie , Mittmann Christiane , Nowicka Anna M. , Hartmann Arndt , Hermanns Thomas , Poyet Cédric , van den Broek Maries , Sulser Tullio , Moch Holger , Schraml Peter
Published: February 2015

Purpose: CD70, a member of the TNF ligand superfamily, has been shown frequently overexpressed in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). The mechanisms of CD70′s upregulation and its role in ccRCC are unknown.

Experimental Design: CD70 expression was immunohistochemically analyzed in 667 RCCs and RCC metastases. Von Hippel–Lindau gene (VHL) mutations, expression patterns of VHL protein (pVHL), hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) α, and several HIF targets were studied in tissues and cell lines and correlated with CD70 overexpression. Gene promoter analysis was performed to confirm CD70 as HIF target gene. Consecutive tissue sections were immunostained to reveal the relation between CD70-expressing RCCs and tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes positive for the CD70 receptor (CD27). CD70-mediated release of soluble CD27 in RCC was assessed by coculture experiments and sera analysis of patients with RCC.

Results: Elevated CD70 expression was seen in 80% of primary tumors and metastases of ccRCC and correlated with dysregulation of the pVHL/HIF pathway. In vitro analyses demonstrated that CD70 upregulation is driven by HIF. Furthermore, CD27+ lymphocytes preferentially infiltrate CD70-expressing ccRCCs. CD70-dependent release of soluble CD27 in cocultures may explain the high CD27 levels observed in sera of patients with CD70-expressing ccRCC. The combination of lymphocyte infiltration and CD70 expression in RCC was associated with worse patient outcome.

Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate that in ccRCC, CD70 expression is regulated by HIF as a consequence of pVHL inactivation. Increased serum levels of CD27 suggest the existence of CD70-expressing ccRCC, thus representing a potential serum marker for patients suffering from this disease. Clin Cancer Res; 21(4); 889–98. ©2015 AACR.
Fyn in Neurodevelopment and Ischemic Brain Injury
Authors: Knox Renatta , Jiang Xiangning
Published: February 2015

The Src family kinases (SFKs) are nonreceptor protein tyrosine kinases that are implicated in many normal and pathological processes in the nervous system. The SFKs Fyn, Src, Yes, Lyn, and Lck are expressed in the brain. This review will focus on Fyn, as Fyn mutant mice have striking phenotypes in the brain and Fyn has been shown to be involved in ischemic brain injury in adult rodents and, with our work, in neonatal animals. An understanding of Fyn's role in neurodevelopment and disease will allow researchers to target pathological pathways while preserving protective ones.
Effect of Bronchodilators on Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 s in Preterm-Born Participants Aged 5 and Over: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kotecha Sarah J. , Edwards Martin O. , Watkins W. John , Lowe John , Henderson A. John , Kotecha Sailesh
Published: February 2015

Background and Objectives: Preterm-born participants are at risk of long-term deficits in percentage predicted forced expiratory volume in 1 s (%FEV1). Since it is unclear if these deficits respond to bronchodilators, we systematically reviewed the evidence for reversibility of deficits in %FEV1 by bronchodilators in preterm-born participants. Design: Studies reporting a change in %FEV1 in response to bronchodilator treatment in preterm-born participants at ≥5 years of age, with or without a term-born control group, were identified. The quality of studies was assessed by adapted tools. Due to considerable heterogeneity between studies, formal meta-analysis was not possible. Results: From 8,839 titles, 22 studies were identified after an updated search in May 2013. Twenty-one studies assessed the response to a single inhaled dose of a bronchodilator, and 1 study assessed longer-term effects. Most studies observed decreased %FEV1 in preterm-born participants compared with controls. Most studies observed improved %FEV1 after a single dose of bronchodilator, with the largest improvements noted in those with bronchopulmonary dysplasia, who had greater deficits of %FEV1 when compared with preterm and term controls. One long-term study investigated a 2-week terbutaline administration, but the initial FEV1 after a single dose did not show a change in %FEV1 of ≥15%, but 5/29 (17%) children had an increased %FEV1 of ≥10%. Conclusions: In this systematic review, disparate studies were identified. Although single doses of bronchodilators appear to improve the FEV1 in the short term, further studies are required to assess their longer-term benefits not only on airway obstruction, but also their effect on respiratory symptoms.
Improvement of Resistant Hypertension by Nocturnal Hemodialysis in a Patient with End-Stage Kidney Disease
Authors: Tang Xiaojing , Hu Xiaohong , Mei Changlin , Yu Shengqiang
Published: February 2015

Resistant hypertension is a common and refractory complication of hemodialysis (HD) patients and is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Here we present a case of resistant hypertension treated successfully by nocturnal HD. A 63-year-old female with end-stage kidney disease was hospitalized for severe headache, objective vertigo and persistent vomiting for 1 month on February 6, 2012. She had been on intermittent HD for 3 months, and her blood pressure maintained 200-240/100-130 mm Hg even after using 7 kinds of antihypertensive drugs including olmesartan, benazepril, nitrendipine, arotinolol, terazosin, clonidine and torasemide. A CT of the abdomen revealed a mild hyperplasia of the left adrenal gland (fig. 1). However, plasma renin, angiotensin and aldosterone were all within the normal range. Nocturnal extended HD was initiated with a blood flow rate of 150 ml/min and a dialysis time of 7 h. After 3 months of nocturnal HD, all symptoms were relieved and her systolic blood pressure started to decrease by 10-20 mm Hg. Six months later, the predialysis blood pressure was decreased to 140-160/90-100 mm Hg and the antihypertensive drugs were reduced to 4 kinds. Meanwhile, the blood biochemical parameters including hemoglobin, serum calcium, phosphate and parathyroid hormone were all controlled well during 2 years of treatment. This case indicates that nocturnal extended HD is probably a promising and effective choice for resistant hypertension in HD patients.
Igualdad de género en las instituciones educativas de la primera infancia brasileña
Authors: Finco Daniela
Published: February 2015

En el presente artículo propongo un debate sobre las políticas de igualdad y el contexto de la formación docente para actuar en la educación infantil, analizando cómo el género está presente en las políticas públicas y en la formación de docentes que actúan en la primera etapa de la educación básica brasileña, en las guarderías y en los jardines de infancia. Un enfoque sobre el campo de la educación infantil y género apunta a los desafíos de la aplicación práctica de los principios de igualdad de género y ciudadanía que aseguren el reconocimiento de nuevos valores relacionados con la masculinidad y la feminidad, señalados por las políticas públicas nacionales e internacionales.
A Smart Break? College Tenure Interruption and Graduating Student Outcomes
Authors: Routon P. Wesley , Walker Jay K.
Published: February 2015

Using data from a longitudinal survey of college students from over 400 institutions, we examine the impacts of occupational internship programs and voluntary academic leave on returning academic achievement, post-college ambitions, and general facets of the college experience. Previous literature on college internships has focused on labor market effects and the literature on academic leave has emphasized its causes. Much less has been done to analyze effects of these occurrences on collegiate outcomes. College internships are found to have a positive effect on grades, increase desires to work full-time or attend graduate school immediately following graduation, and slightly increase ambitions to have administrative responsibilities and be financially well off. Voluntary academic leave is found to have only negative effects on collegiate outcomes, including study habits and academic achievement upon return. Implied policy implications are that colleges and universities should champion internship programs but discourage college tenure interruption for other reasons.
Messengers of Bad News or Bad Apples? Student Debt and College Accountability
Authors: Darolia Rajeev
Published: February 2015

Student loan debt and defaults have been steadily rising, igniting public worry about the associated public and private risks. This has led to controversial regulatory attempts to curb defaults by holding colleges, particularly those in the for-profit sector, increasingly accountable for the student loan repayment behavior of their students. Such efforts endeavor to protect taxpayers against the misuse of public money used to encourage college enrollment and to safeguard students against potentially risky human capital investments. Recent policy proposals penalize colleges for students’ poor repayment performance, raising questions about institutions’ power to influence this behavior. Many of the schools at risk of not meeting student loan default measures also disproportionately enroll low-income, nontraditional, and financially independent students. Policy makers therefore face the challenge of promoting the efficient use of public funds and protecting students while also encouraging access to higher education.
The genital area of Halacaridae (Acari), life stages and development of morphological characters and implication on the classification
Authors: BARTSCH ILSE
Published: February 2015

The genital region of juvenile and adult halacarid genera is described. Larvae are expected to be present in all, protonymphs at least in the majority of the genera. Two of the marine genera have three nymphal instars, in the others one or two nymphal instars are suppressed. Adults of marine species have one, two or three pairs of genital acetabula; intrageneric differences in the number of acetabula are present but rare. Derived from the number of perigenital setae and genital acetabula, in most genera it is the deutonymph which is suppressed, in a few others the tritonymph. Adults of species with two nymphal stages have either two or three pairs of acetabula, those with a single nymphal stage have either one or two pairs of acetabula. Two genera may lack the protonymphal stage, but more material is needed to prove the absence. The present-day classification is outlined and supplemented. Anomalohalacarus and Arenihalacarus are both assigned to the Anomalohalacarinae. The Halixodinae include Agaue, Bradyagaue and Halixodes, the knowledge of Australacarus and Colobocerasides is sparse, but they may have to be incorporated in the Halixodinae. The subfamily Halacarinae includes a single genus, namely Halacarus.
An annotated checklist of the Recent non-marine ostracods (Ostracoda: Crustacea) from Italy
Authors: PIERI VALENTINA , MARTENS KOEN , MEISCH CLAUDE , ROSSETTI GIAMPAOLO
Published: February 2015

We present an updated checklist of non-marine ostracods from Italy. Data were obtained from the published literature up to April 2013 and new collections carried out in 18 out of 20 Italian regions. Altogether, 1665 ostracod samples were collected from 1241 new sites visited between 1981 and 2013. Sites were selected to encompass the most widespread types of freshwater aquatic habitats (i.e., pools, ponds, peat bogs, springs and streams, etc.). This field study led to the identification of 89 ostracod species. Five additional taxa remained at the generic level because only few (juvenile) individuals were available or the material was damaged. Of particular interest is the occurrence of four species new to Italy: Candonocypris novaezelandiae, Eucypris elongata, Ilyocypris getica and I. hartmanni. In addition, three putative new species (Pseudolimnocythere sp., Candona sp.1 and Eucypris sp.1) are left in open nomenclature.                         After synonymising several species and removing invalid taxa reported in the literature, the updated checklist now includes 152 species and 5 taxa identified at supraspecific level, belonging to 57 genera and 12 families (Candonidae, Cyprididae, Cytherideidae, Darwinulidae, Ilyocyprididae, Notodromadidae, Limnocytheridae, Leptocytheridae, Loxochonchidae, Hemicytheridae, Xestoleberididae and Entocytheridae). For each species, its distribution in Italy and its bibliographic records (including synonyms) for Italy are provided.
The Simulated Structure and Evolution of a Quasi-Idealized Warm-Season Convective System with a Training Convective Line
Authors: Peters John M. , Schumacher Russ S.
Published: February 2015

This study details the development and use of an idealized modeling framework to simulate a quasi-stationary heavy-rain-producing mesoscale convective system (MCS). A 36-h composite progression of atmospheric fields computed from 26 observed warm-season heavy-rain-producing training line/adjoining stratiform (TL/AS) MCSs was used as initial and lateral boundary conditions for a numerical simulation of this MCS archetype.

A realistic TL/AS MCS initiated and evolved within a simulated mesoscale environment that featured a low-level jet terminus, maximized low-level warm-air advection, and an elevated maximum in convective available potential energy. The first stage of MCS evolution featured an eastward-moving trailing-stratiform-type MCS that generated a surface cold pool. The initial system was followed by rearward off-boundary development, where a new line of convective cells simultaneously redeveloped north of the surface cold pool boundary. Backbuilding persisted on the western end of the new line, with individual convective cells training over a fixed geographic region. The final stage was characterized by a deepening and southward surge of the cold pool, accompanied by the weakening and slow southward movement of the training line. The low-level vertical wind shear profile favored kinematic lifting along the southeastern cold pool flank over the southwestern flank, potentially explaining why convection propagated with (did not propagate with) the former (latter) outflow boundaries.

The morphological features of the simulated MCS are common among observed cases and may, therefore, be generalizable. These results suggest that they are emergent from fundamental features of the large-scale environment, such as persistent regional low-level lifting, and with the vertical environmental wind profile characteristic to TL/AS systems.
Arctic Warming Induced by Tropically Forced Tapping of Available Potential Energy and the Role of the Planetary-Scale Waves
Authors: Baggett Cory , Lee Sukyoung
Published: February 2015

One of the challenging tasks in climate science is to understand the equator-to-pole temperature gradient. The poleward heat flux generated by baroclinic waves is known to be central in reducing the equator-to-pole temperature gradient from a state of radiative–convective equilibrium. However, invoking this relationship to explain the wide range of equator-to-pole temperature gradients observed in past climates is challenging because baroclinic waves tend to follow the flux–gradient relationship such that their poleward heat flux is proportional to the equator-to-pole temperature gradient and zonal available potential energy (ZAPE). With reanalysis data, the authors show the existence of poleward heat transport by planetary-scale waves that are independent of the flux–gradient relationship and baroclinic instability. This process arises from a forced tapping of atmospheric ZAPE by planetary-scale waves that are triggered by enhanced tropical convection over the Pacific warm pool region. The Rossby waves excited by this tropical convection propagate northeastward over the Pacific Ocean and constructively interfere with the climatological stationary waves at higher latitudes. During polar night, when the current warming is most rapid, the forced tapping of ZAPE by planetary-scale waves produces a substantially greater warming than that by the synoptic-scale eddy fluxes that presumably arise from baroclinic instability.
Personality characteristics in childhood and outcomes in adulthood: Findings from a 30 year longitudinal study
Authors: Newton-Howes Giles , Horwood John , Mulder Roger
Published: February 2015

Objective:

Personality has been associated with a variety of outcomes in adulthood. Most of the literature related to mental state disorder and personality is cross sectional.

Methods:

Data from more than 900 participants of the Christchurch Health and Development Study (CHDS) were examined. Extroversion and neuroticism were measured at 14 years old and social outcomes at age 30. The presence of mental state disorder between 18-30 years old was identified. Multiple potential confounders in childhood were included in the analysis.

Results:

Neuroticism at fourteen was significantly correlated with multiple environmental exposures whereas extroversion had relatively few associations. Regression analysis found that neuroticism at 14 predicted depression, anxiety, suicidality and overall mental health problems at 30 as well as poor self-esteem but not relationship quality or wellbeing. Extroversion at 14 predicted alcohol and drug dependence and overall mental health problems, but also predicted improved social wellbeing, self-esteem and relationship quality at 30.

Conclusions:

In this analysis extroversion interacts with significantly fewer environmental factors than neuroticism in predicting adult outcomes. Neuroticism at 14 years predicts poorer mental health outcomes in adulthood. Extroversion in childhood may be a protective factor in the development of mental disorder other than alcohol use disorders. Extroverted adolescents have more positive social outcomes at 30 years.
Capital Flows, Asset Prices and Output in Emerging Market Economies
Authors: Nag Ranjanendra Narayan , Baksi Sayan , Majumder Sayantan Bandhu
Published: February 2015

In this article we construct a simple open-economy macro model to examine how capital flows, monetary policy and dividend policies of firms influence asset prices, economic activity and inflation. In this model, we consider a three-asset framework based on domestic money, domestic equity and foreign bonds under flexible exchange rate. The model is based on the assumptions of imperfect asset substitutability and absence of sterilization. The model also incorporates an aggregate supply function in the presence of wage indexation. The model can apply to a large class of emerging market economies which have embarked on a programme of liberalization of the financial sector in general and stock market in particular.
Towards a Revised GATT/WTO Special and Differential Treatment Regime for Least Developed and Developing Countries
Authors: Sibanda Omphemetse S.
Published: February 2015

The envisaged benefits of the special and differential treatment (S&DT) is that developed countries will provide a supportive environment to least-developed countries (LDCs) through amongst others: providing preferential access to their markets; providing technical and other assistance which would permit them to meet their WTO obligations; developed countries implementing WTO associated agreements subject to conscious and positive consideration of interests of LDCs; LDCs given the privilege of more time to meet their obligations under WTO agreements. However, the asymmetry that exists as regards developed countries and LDCs in terms of the levels of development reveals some inefficiencies of the application of S&DT regime. The current S&DT system needs be revised.
An Evaluation of Indian Manufacturing Exports Performance
Authors: Padhi Satya Prasad
Published: February 2015

The article, following Young (1928), maintains that the incentives to the growth of firms that is based on providing incentives for further scope of division of labour and narrow specializations in intermediate goods is the best way to promote exports, which would be associated with greater dynamism of the manufacturing sector. It adopts an empirical framework to highlight the conditions that indicate such incidence of dynamism, which could permit both higher wages to more skilled labour force and higher returns to the firms. It shows that there is a slowing down of such dynamism, which can explain the decreasing share of manufacturing exports to total exports in recent times, which is also an indicator of lack of greater dynamism of the manufacturing sector.
Social solidarity, social work and Chinese people
Authors: Shardlow Steven M , Rochelle Tina L
Published: February 2015

Differences in social solidarity among Chinese in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom have been identified from two linked studies. Significant differences emerged between the two Chinese communities. Notably, respondents in Hong Kong reported a higher sense of belonging to their community, greater engagement with the provision of care for others and made a greater contribution to the lives of others than did UK Chinese respondents. Consideration about construction and delivery of social services is discussed.
A Freirean analysis of Kazakhstani social work education
Authors: Koenig Terry L , Spano Richard , Kaufman David , Leiste Matthew R , Tynyshbayeva Ane , Madyarbekov Gani , Makhadiyeva Assem Karataevna
Published: February 2015

The authors examine their Kazakhstani social work teaching experiences. Key elements discussed include the history of Kazakhstani culture, language, family life; the view that the classroom is a microcosm of the larger society; and the role of language dominance in the Kazakhstani classroom. Five concepts provide a framework for analyzing our classroom experiences, including indigenization, internationalization, and three concepts from Paulo Freire (i.e. culture of silence, banking concept of education, and critical consciousness). This framework provides students with ways to awaken to social consciousness, to analyze oppression, and to participate in actions to change society.
Workfare in the undemocratic states: The case of China
Authors: Chan Chak Kwan , Ngok Kinglun
Published: February 2015

This article examines the problems caused by workfare in China. It is found that China’s public assistance scheme is managed mainly by volunteers and government officials who do not necessarily possess relevant qualifications. Also, welfare claimants’ benefits can be ceased without going through a rigorous procedure; they can hardly challenge the decisions of the authority because China’s judicial system is interfered by central and local senior officials. This article concludes that workfare is a product of Western democratic countries; its implementation in undemocratic states will only increase power abuses among welfare bureaucrats and threaten the rights of claimants.
Social work ethics in India: A call for the development of indigenized ethical standards
Authors: Reamer Frederic G , Nimmagadda Jayashree
Published: February 2015

In recent years, various professional associations in social work and regulatory bodies worldwide have engaged in ambitious efforts to draft and implement comprehensive ethics guidelines, standards, and education. For a variety of complex reasons, the social work profession in India has lagged behind developments in many other nations. The purpose of this article is to assess the current status of social work ethics in India, review relevant developments throughout the world, and present a blueprint to guide the development of much-needed indigenous ethical standards and education in India.
Galatians 3.10-12: Assumptions and Argumentation
Authors: Hunn Debbie
Published: February 2015

To follow Paul’s argument in Gal. 3.10-12 requires resolving the controversy over whether he makes the implicit assumption in v. 10 that no one is able to keep the law. The contention of this article is that Paul does not build upon this idea as a presupposition, because his argument would then rest on a concept that his audience denies. Instead, he proves this point in vv. 11-12 on the basis of an implicit assumption that he shares with his readers: the law either justiﬁes or condemns; there is no third option. Because the law does not justify anyone, it therefore condemns everyone under it; the people it condemns are exactly the people who break it.
Paul’s Freedom and Moses’ Veil: Moral Freedom and the Mosaic Law in 2 Corinthians 3.1–4.6 in Light of Philo
Authors: Keddie G. Anthony
Published: February 2015

Whereas 2 Cor. 3.1–4.6 is traditionally understood as a polemic against Judaeans and the Mosaic law, a close examination of its rhetoric of moral freedom in light of nearly contemporaneous philosophers, and Philo of Alexandria in particular, necessitates a different conclusion. As part of his self-depiction as a sophos, Paul critiques Moses’ mediation of the law by invoking Stoic philosophical traditions which relativize slavery and freedom and assert that written codes of law are insufﬁcient for freedom in order to claim that Moses limited divine revelation. In this way, Paul casts Moses’ mediation as a foil for his mediation of the gospel, which allegedly does not limit revelation but affords freedom apart from the written law. Paul never castigates the law or Judaeans; instead, he critiques Mosaic mediation in order to bolster his own authority as a mediator of divine revelation.
The Social Relationships of Gospel Writers: New Insights from Inscriptions Commending Greek Historiographers
Authors: Last Richard
Published: February 2015

Scholarship traditionally situates the social lives of NT gospel writers exclusively within the Jesus movement and local Christ groups, showing inadequate consideration for how the literary abilities of gospel writers might have provided the basis for social interaction and group formation with Greeks, Romans and Judeans of common occupations and/or cultural interests. In order to provide a fuller portrait of the social and historical setting of gospel literature, this article explores the ranges of social activities practiced, and networks developed, by comparable writers—broadly, Greek historiographers. Data from the epigraphy about the social practices of historiographers help to provide controls for speculations about the setting of NT gospel composition, and raise new questions about this literature possibly emerging from networks and guilds forged between people of similar scribal professions and/or cultural interests that cut through ancient Christianity rather than originating from within the Jesus movement exclusively. Scholarship on the social setting of the Q Gospel (i.e., scribal networks) and the Gospel of Thomas (i.e., philosophical formations) has made arguments in this direction on the basis of other evidence, and that model appears most historically plausible for the narrative gospels, as well.