bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pengaruh Kompensasi, Kepuasan Kerja Dan Kemampuan Kerja Terhadap Kinerja Pegawai Di Kantor Pelayanan Pajak Pratama Medan Polonia
Authors: Nanda Ananda Fitriani Dewi , Purwita Sari
Published: August 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh kompensasi, kepuasan kerja dan kemampuan kerja secara parsial dan secara bersamaan terhadap kinerja pegawai di Kantor Pelayanan Pajak Pratama Medan Polonia dengan populasi sebanyak 95 orang, dan sampel penelitian sebanyak 93 orang. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan wawancara, kuesioner dan dokumentasi. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis regresi berganda dengan menggunakan program komputer IMB Statistik for Product and Service Solution (SPSS) versi 24. Berdasarkan hasil analisis diperoleh kompensasi berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja pegawai Kantor Pelayanan Pajak Pratama Medan Polonia, hal ini didukung hasil analisis t hitung > t-tabel (2,938 > 1,987) pada n = 93 pada taraf sifgifikansi 95%. Kepuasan kerja berpengaruh berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja pegawai Kantor Pelayanan Pajak Pratama Medan Polonia, hal ini didukung analisis t hitung > t-tabel (2,128 > 1,987) pada n = 93 pada taraf signifikansi 95%. Kemampuan kerja berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap kinerja pegawai Kantor Pelayanan Pajak Pratama Medan Polonia, hal ini didukung analisis t hitung > t-tabel (3,335 > 1,987) pada n = 93 dengan taraf sifgnifikan 95%. Nilai F-hitung > F tabel (16,396 > 2,71) hal ini menyatakan bahwa secara bersama-sama (multiple) terdapat pengaruh positif dan signifikan kompensasi, kepuasan kerja dan kemampuan kerja terhadap kinerja pegawai Kantor Pelayanan Pajak Pratama Medan Polonia. 
 
Kata kunci : Kompensasi, Kepuasan Kerja, Kemampuan kerja, kinerja pegawai.
Perceived Leadership Integrity, Job Satisfaction, and Work Engagement on Johor Bharu’s Primary School Teachers: A Concept Paper
Authors: Yek Yew Ing , Loo Fung Lan
Published: August 2024

The leadership, integrity, ethics, and values of the headmaster at school come with numerous benefits not only to himself but also to teachers, students, stakeholders, and the school organization. School teachers who are engaged in their work are those who feel energetic, dedicated, and absorbed by their work. These engaged school teachers work hard (vigor), are involved (dedicated), feel happily engrossed (absorbed) in their work, and will remain in their job consistently. Furthermore, a headmaster who able to encourage job satisfaction on teachers will promote advances and consistently advantageous changes in the school. The purpose of this study is to investigate the mediating effect that job satisfaction contributes in the relationship between perceived leadership integrity and work engagement among Johor Bharu’s primary school teachers. This quantitative study intends to reveal a significant relationship between perceived leadership integrity, work engagement, and job satisfaction among Johor Bharu's primary school teachers. Data will collect from current primary school teachers by using a structured questionnaire. The outcomes of this study also aim to clarify how job satisfaction serves as a mediator between perceived leadership integrity and work engagement among Johor Bharu’s primary school teachers.
Exploring strategies promoting interprofessional collaborative practice in spinal cord injury rehabilitation at a private South African hospital group
Authors: McLaggan K , Lister H , Filies G C
Published: August 2024

Background. Implementing an interprofessional collaborative practice (IPCP) in hospitals improves health outcomes, enhances patient safety and reduces length of stay by optimising resource utilisation. Although this approach was desired at a private hospital group in South Africa (SA), the specific strategies for clinical guidelines and capacity management pertaining to spinal cord injury (SCI) patients and the implementation of IPCP were unknown.
Objective. To explore strategies for implementing clinical guidelines and capacity management for SCI rehabilitation to promote IPCP in a private hospital group in SA.
Method. This exploratory descriptive qualitative study included participants who were selected through purposive sampling. The participants comprised 11 staff from various disciplines and management of the private hospital group, one local and one international expert in IPCP. Three online focus groups (n=13) were conducted, involving three to five participants. The transcriptions were analysed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s framework.
Results. Interprofessional communication and tools as well as capacity development were three emergent themes from the data. Strategies pertaining to communication methods, digitisation, visual displays, patient care information, educational information and education of healthcare workers were suggested to promote IPCP.
Conclusion. These findings from the emergent themes could assist in implementing and integrating an IPCP approach into the rehabilitation service. Further research assessing the efficacy of implementing the IPCP strategies and digital platform would be beneficial.
Using games to clarify interprofessional roles and build a repository of curricula activities
Authors: Dreyer A
Published: August 2024

Background. Game-based learning has emerged as an exciting innovation for teaching and learning outcomes. Educators have built engaging and immersive experiences which help students learn about the health professions and roles, by integrating game theory and gamification. Learning about these roles will help students collaborate more effectively in the future. Educators can create a dynamic learning experience for their students by introducing gaming aspects into instructional activities. Artificial intelligence (AI) could be leveraged to accelerate the broader use of these technologies in teaching and learning.
Methods. An interactive computer-based game was designed for interprofessional education and teaching, to identify the roles of nine healthcare professions.
Results. In the development of the game, six of the learning principles namely identity, interaction, production, customisation, challenge and consolidation and pleasantly frustrating, are applied from conceptualisation of the game and throughout the game, to ensure that gameplay and learning is achieved.
Conclusion. The use of games can be a powerful tool to clarify interprofessional roles, and this contribution supports the building of a repository of curricula activities that incorporate games and can be valuable for educators looking to enhance their teaching methods. Overall, incorporating games into interprofessional education has the potential to improve learning outcomes and prepare future healthcare professionals for collaborative practice. Educators and institutions alike need to consider the benefits of using games as part of their educational strategies.
Virtual interprofessional education for the African continent: AFRI-VIPE
Authors: Showstark M , Wiss A C , Joosten‐Hagye D , Sappio E M , Slusser M , Cavezza R , Nyathi N , Nyoni C N , Filies G C , Pattershall‐Geide J , Embry E , Zschaebitz E , Mcginnis P , Resnik C , An I , Delawala F , Pitout H , Schweickerdt L , Muller J , Africa L , Kholvadia A , Ntsekhe T , Tshotetsi L , Ricks E , Biernacki P
Published: August 2024

This article details how multiple universities came together in 2019 during the Africa Interprofessional Education Network (AfrIPEN) conference in Nairobi, Kenya, to create an interprofessional, multi-continent, multi-university opportunity to give their students an asynchronous and synchronous virtual interprofessional experience through a programme known as VIPE (virtual interprofessional education). The programme, which was created after the conference, was entitled AFRI-VIPE (Africa virtual interprofessional education). From that conference, four AFRI-VIPE events have been implemented to date. Asynchronous material was created, and synchronous sessions were held that utilised problem-based learning to reinforce the Interprofessional Education Collaborative (IPEC) core competencies. Students’ competency attainment was assessed using the Interprofessional Collaborative Competencies Attainment Survey (ICCAS), and analysis of those data showed significant improvements across all six interprofessional subscales for students at both North American- and African-based institutions, as well as across professional groups. All data were kept anonymous. Challenges experienced during AFRI-VIPE included the difference in time zones, student attrition, connectivity and survey response rates. Through their participation in the VIPE model, students and facilitators from a variety of countries and professions appreciated the opportunity to learn with, from and about other students through exposure to authentic case studies.
Prediction of PM2.5 concentration based on a CNN-LSTM neural network algorithm
Authors: Bai Xuesong , Zhang Na , Cao Xiaoyi , Chen Wenqian
Published: August 2024

Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is a major air pollutant affecting human survival, development and health. By predicting the spatial distribution concentration of PM2.5, pollutant sources can be better traced, allowing measures to protect human health to be implemented. Thus, the purpose of this study is to predict and analyze the PM2.5 concentration of stations based on the integrated deep learning of a convolutional neural network long short-term memory (CNN-LSTM) model. To solve the complexity and nonlinear characteristics of PM2.5 time series data problems, we adopted the CNN-LSTM deep learning model. We collected the PM2.5data of Qingdao in 2020 as well as meteorological factors such as temperature, wind speed and air pressure for pre-processing and characteristic analysis. Then, the CNN-LSTM deep learning model was integrated to capture the temporal and spatial features and trends in the data. The CNN layer was used to extract spatial features, while the LSTM layer was used to learn time dependencies. Through comparative experiments and model evaluation, we found that the CNN-LSTM model can achieve excellent PM2.5 prediction performance. The results show that the coefficient of determination (R2) is 0.91, and the root mean square error (RMSE) is 8.216 µg/m3. The CNN-LSTM model achieves better prediction accuracy and generalizability compared with those of the CNN and LSTM models (R2 values of 0.85 and 0.83, respectively, and RMSE values of 11.356 and 14.367, respectively). Finally, we analyzed and explained the predicted results. We also found that some meteorological factors (such as air temperature, pressure, and wind speed) have significant effects on the PM2.5 concentration at ground stations in Qingdao. In summary, by using deep learning methods, we obtained better prediction performance and revealed the association between PM2.5 concentration and meteorological factors. These findings are of great significance for improving the quality of the atmospheric environment and protecting public health.
The Generalized Torelli Problem through the geometry of the Gauss map
Authors:   , Rahausen Rodríguez Sebastián Andrés
Published: August 2024

Given a non-hyperelliptic curve C of genus g and 1<n<g-1, in this work we prove that the generic fiber of the Gauss map on W_n has one element and we characterize its multiple locus. Assuming that C doesn't have a linear system of dimension k+1 and degree n+k+1, for 0<k<n<g-1, we solve the problem of reconstructing each linear system of dimension k and degree n+k, and the dual hypersurface of the image of its associated morphism, through information encoded in the Gauss map. For this purpose we introduce the notion of (n+k)-intersection loci and we study their dimensions. In the hyperelliptic case we prove that the image of the Gauss map is a union of sets whose closures are birational to their complete linear systems of dimension k and degree n+k, for each 0<k<n+1<g+1, and that these also contain a copy of the dual hypersurface of the image of its associated morphism. From the case k=n we deduce that the closure of the image of the Gauss map is birational to the n-dimensional projective space.We also prove the existence of points in W_n such that their images on the Kummer variety of their Jacobian aren't in general position, i.e., they lie on a multisecant. For this purpose we use the Gunning multisecant formula. We then study some relations between these multisecant points and the Gauss map on W_n, in both cases non-hyperelliptic and hyperelliptic.
Understanding Farmers’ Intentions to Adopt Organic Farming in India
Authors: Shelar Rahul , Deshmukh Sandeep , Warawadekar Santosh , Jadhav Suraj
Published: August 2024

This research paper explores the dynamics of organic farming adoption among farmers in the Konkan region of India, focusing on the districts of Ratnagiri and Raigad. Against the backdrop of the pivotal role the agricultural sector plays in India's economy, the study employs an ex-post-facto research design to investigate the intentions, attitudes, and perceived capabilities of 150 organic farmers across diverse cropping systems. The findings reveal a nuanced landscape of motivations, ranging from a desire for toxin-free food to cultural preservation. Farmers' attitudes towards organic agriculture, influenced by health considerations and social networks, underscore the complex interplay between traditional practices and modern influences. Moreover, the study delves into the perceived marketability of organic products, highlighting factors such as consumer willingness to pay premiums and the competitive advantage of organic over conventional produce. As India grapples with the need for sustainable agricultural practices, the study sheds light on the multifaceted factors influencing the adoption of organic farming and provides insights essential for policy formulation and sustainable agricultural development.
Evaluating the Effects of Public Debt on Sri Lanka’s Economic Growth: A Short-term and Long-term Perspective
Authors: U.L. Milhana , J.M.A. Jayawickrama
Published: August 2024

Aims: The objective of this paper is to examine whether public debt enhances economic growth in Sri Lanka by separating debt into domestic and external debt.
Study Design:  The paper adopts the Keynesian demand-side model to estimate GDP on demand-side and supply-side factors such as domestic debt, external debt, gross fixed capital formation (investment in short), labour force, general price level, money supply, government spending and trade openness. In a model where debt causes investment, public debt effects are netted out from investment by removing the estimated investment effects of domestic and external debt.
Duration of Study: quarterly data from Q1 2010 to Q1 2023 are utilized to trace the long-term and the short-term effects of domestic and external debt on GDP.
Methodology: The ARDL method of estimation is used and the model is estimated in double log form so that estimated parameters reflect output elasticities. A general to specific modelling approach is adopted to find the best suited model. 
Results: Variables such as government spending, money supply, general price level and labour force are not relevant while domestic debt, external debt, investment (debt effects netted out) and trade openness are significant in describing GDP. The long-term domestic debt elasticity of GDP is 0.588 while short-term domestic debt elasticity (sum of contemporaneous and lag effects) is about 0.63. The cumulative effects of domestic debt on GDP tappers off to 0.60 in the long-run. The result suggests negative impacts (-0.272 and -0.254) of external debt on the economic growth in short-term and long-term respectively. The negative effect of external debt can be justified if recent external borrowings have been used to repay loans taken to finance war and unproductive projects.
Conclusion: The paper finds that the domestic public debt creates relatively strong positive effects on GDP in the short-term and the long-term. Contrary to the expectations, the effects of external debt on GDP have become negative both in the short-term and the long-term. The paper also finds that debt effects on GDP have been significantly reduced when debt effect-ridden investment variable is included in the regression in place of debt-effect netted out investment. Thus, this study recommends researchers to carry out further research on why the effects of external debt on GDP become negative. Further, it recommends policy makers to use both domestic and external debt to finance public investment and productivity enhancement projects rather than borrowing merely for the purpose of consumption and repaying of existing debt.
Performance Measurement System Design for Integrated Thinking: Evidence from Japanese Electric Utility Providers
Authors: Massmann Kevin
Published: August 2024

Asian companies are increasingly practicing integrated reporting to create long-term economic, environmental, and social value for investors and other stakeholders. To accomplish such value creation, far-reaching changes in strategies, management control systems, and governance are required, which is achieved through a management approach called integrated thinking. However, findings from previous studies indicate barriers in designing performance measurement systems, leading to misalignment between strategies and managers' decision-making. Therefore, this research study aims to expand existing knowledge on integrated reporting by (1) developing a conceptual framework for the characteristics of performance measurement systems to support integrated thinking and (2) analyzing the current status of performance measurement systems used by Japanese electric utility providers.
To support integrated thinking, performance measurement systems should contain multidimensional and connected key performance indicators with quantitative target values and action plans that are integrated into the management reward system. By utilizing primary data, the most recent integrated reports of all 11 Japanese electric utility providers were analyzed trough a manual content analysis and percentage analysis. On average, the requirements of performance measurement system design are fulfilled to a degree of 56 %, while the lowest degree being 39 % and the highest degree being 75 %. In most cases, companies use multidimensional key performance indicators with incomplete target values and vaguely defined action plans. Key performance indicators are insufficiently connected and integrated with rewards systems, indicating the outside-in approach of integrated reporting. Larger companies that explicitly refer to the  Framework tend to use more sophisticated performance measurement systems. The findings suggest several areas for improvement, such as connectivity between KPIs as well as further integrating non-financial KPIs with the rewards system.
Knowledge Level of Caregivers on Immunization for Children (under-5 Years) in Nigeria
Authors: Orofuke Ngozi G. , Ighosewe Ayirioritse Peace , Ofonakara Uzochukwu , Elusoji Christiana I. , Ofilia Charles C. , Otutua Michael O. , Ohanme Eugene O.
Published: August 2024

Background: Families, especially mothers are the major role players with regard to their children’s immunization. This study empirically Knowledge Level of Caregivers on Immunization for Children under-5 years in Delta North Senatorial District of Delta State, Nigeria.
Materials and Methods: A well self-structured questionnaires drawn from caregivers of under-5 children who were disposed to immunization in the nine (9) local government areas in Delta North senatorial district was used. However, the questionnaires were distributed to 3843 caregivers across the Nine (9) local government areas under study but the researcher was able to successfully retrieve 3624, representing 94% of the sample size.. Two major hypotheses were tested using analysis of variance (ANOVA) regression analysis with the aid of SPSS.
Results: The data showed that 3030, representing about 85.0% of the respondents were mothers while the remaining 544 (15.0%) were male (fathers) with under-5 children in Delta North Senatorial District The findings shows that the knowledge level of caregivers, and enablers are respectively statistically significant in the immunization of under-5 children in Delta North senatorial district of Delta State, Nigeria. 
Conclusion: It is therefore concluded that for the immunization to becomes successfully performed caregivers must have basic or advanced education and training to avoid the an increased mortality rate of death to children below five (5) years old.
Morphological and Structural Characterization of Algae-Based Nanoformulation
Authors: Vasanth V  , Senguttuvan K. , S Navaneetha Krishnan , B Karthick Mani Bharathi , Nazary Prety Rekha , M Ashwin Niranjan , Garai Ishita , Harika Kama Ramya , R Ashick Rajah , Bora Nilav Ranjan
Published: August 2024

In the present study, confirmation of Spirulina platensis-mediated TiO2NPs formation was indicated by a noticeable shift in hue from white to light yellow. TEM analysis revealed the presence of irregularly distributed nanoparticles with sizes between 50 and 60 nm, while TEM analysis further disclosed a hexagonal structure. EDAX analysis identified elemental composition, with titanium peaks appearing at 4.5 to 5 keV, carbon peaks at 0.5 keV, oxygen peaks at 0.4 to 1.0 keV, silica peaks at 1.7 to 2.0 keV, zinc peaks at 8.0 keV, copper peaks at 7 keV, potassium peaks at 4 keV, phosphorus peaks at 3 keV, and iron peaks at 6 keV. These comprehensive findings confirm the successful synthesis of well-defined Spirulina platensis-mediated TiO2 nanoparticles and provide valuable insights into their structural and elemental characteristics.
Analysis of Epidemiological Data on Childhood Tuberculosis in the City of São Paulo From 2015 to 2023: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Souza Marina Haber de , Hirata Geovana Neves , Souza Thais Ferreira de , Monteiro Maria Clara Chaves , Pinto Ysadora Maria Rodrigues , Virgolino Rodrigo Rodrigues , Lima Vitor Hugo Auzier
Published: August 2024

Childhood tuberculosis remains an important public health challenge, especially in densely populated urban areas. This study aimed to analyse the correlation between demographic density and the incidence of childhood tuberculosis in the city of São Paulo over the last years. For this purpose, a systematic statistical methodological approach was used, and epidemiological data were collected and analyzed from several sources to identify patterns and trends in the incidence of the disease. The analysis revealed that areas with greater population density had higher rates of childhood tuberculosis, confirming the hypothesis that urban agglomeration facilitates the transmission of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Additionally, seasonal and temporal fluctuations in incidence were identified, related to factors such as public health interventions and changes in tuberculosis control policies. It was therefore concluded that, although significant advances have been made in controlling the disease, there is still a need for specific and continuous strategies for areas of high population density. This study also contributes to a better understanding of the dynamics of childhood tuberculosis in São Paulo and emphasised the importance of integrated public policies to mitigate the impact of the disease in childhood.
Enhancing Concrete with Ultrafine Fly Ash: Mechanical Strength and Frost Resistance
Authors: Zhang Yuqi
Published: August 2024

Fly ash, a byproduct collected from the flue gas of coal combustion, serves as an effective additive in concrete. It offers environmental benefits by converting waste into a valuable resource, thus promoting energy conservation, emission reduction, and waste utilization. Additionally, fly ash enhances the mechanical properties and frost durability of concrete. Commonly used as a partial substitute for cement, it helps conserve resources. However, its use may compromise early strength and durability, which limits its applications. The transformation of raw fly ash into ultrafine fly ash through mechanical grinding increases its fineness and specific surface area, thereby boosting its reactivity and micro-aggregate effects. This process produces denser C-S-H gel and optimizes the concrete microstructure. Research shows that although ultrafine fly ash may slightly reduce early concrete strength, it significantly enhances long-term strength, with a 10% substitution improving early compressive strength by 20.2% and later strength by 13.7%. However, excessive fly ash content can reduce frost resistance, with an optimal substitution level at 25% significantly enhancing this property compared to standard concrete. Blending ultrafine fly ash with other mineral admixtures further boosts mechanical properties and frost durability. Challenges include increased processing costs and early strength deficiencies, along with the necessity to control heavy metal content for environmental and health safety. Future research should aim to optimize fly ash particle distribution and reactivity, develop cost-effective production methods, and blend fly ash with other minerals to improve concrete’s mechanical and frost resistance properties, thus expanding its potential applications.
Palliative Care Knowledge among Physicians in King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross Section Study
Authors: Jey Abdulelah Ahmed , Ghanem Hafez , Bakhsh Alaa , Alyamani Feras
Published: August 2024

Aims: To estimate the level of understanding of non-palliative physicians regarding the palliative approach and to identify areas of weakness in their management of advanced terminal symptoms.
Study Design: An observational study was conducted among physicians at a single center using a cross-sectional design.
Location and Duration of Study: King Abdullah Medical City, Makkah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Methodology: The sample size was determined using ROA software based on the number of physicians. A validated survey was used from a comparable study conducted in Vietnam. The data was transmitted via an electronic iteration of the authorized survey.
Statistical significance will be assessed using a significance level of P < 0.05 and a confidence range of 95%.
Results: The study included a sample size of 80 individuals, with the highest proportion (37.5%) belonging to the age group of 31-40 years. The findings revealed that 57.5% of the participants have knowledge about comprehensive and appropriate palliative care. The study found significant positive correlations between healthcare provider practices and education (r: 0.360, P <0.001), as well as comprehensive Palliative Care Practices (r: 0.476, P <0.001). A negative correlation was seen between knowledge and belief of end- of-life (r = -0.358, P <0.001). Statistically significant correlations were observed between knowledge of palliative care and age (p =0.028), degree (P <0.001), and clinical practice area (P =0.004). The pain management category showed a significant positive correlation with healthcare providers and practices (r: 0.316, P =0.004).
Conclusion: The findings revealed that physicians possessed insufficient knowledge in the areas of pain management and palliative care. Knowledge levels are associated with age, educational attainment, and beliefs about end-of-life care. The study recommended the implementation of additional specialized facilities and the establishment of more efficient palliative care education programs.
Contact Lenses
Authors: Lai Yu‐Chin , Wilson Alan C. , Zantos Steve G. , by Staff Updated
Published: September 2014

Contact lenses are small, hemispherical‐shaped optical devices placed in contact with the transparent tissue at the front of the eye called the cornea. The capillary attraction of the liquid tear layer between the contact lens and the cornea and the partial coverage of the lens by the eyelids prevent contact lenses from being dislodged. All contact lenses can be divided according to the wearing modality. There are two types of general categories of contact lenses soft and rigid gas permeable. There are extended wear lenses available for overnight or for up to 30 days. Disposable lenses are to be used once and then discarded. Contact lenses also are divided into the type of vision problem for which they provide optical correction, ie, myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, sand astigmatism. Contact lenses are manufactured by molding or spin casting. Poly(methyl methacrylate) was the first plastic to be used as a hard lens. Most of today's lenses are made of silicone hydrogels. Tinted lenses are used for cosmetic purposes. Colorants used have to be FDA approved. Contact lens wearers must be aware of the possibility of infection from microbes. Strict cleaning schedules must be followed. Contact lenses are now being investigated for other purposes than vision correction. Disease monitoring, drug delivery, and filtering of light are newer uses.
Isoprene
Authors: Lybarger Hugh M. , by Staff Updated
Published: September 2014

Isoprene is a colorless, volatile liquid that is soluble in most hydrocarbons, but is practically insoluble in water. The isoprene unit exists extensively in nature. It is found in terpenes, camphors, Vitamin A and K, chlorophyll and other compounds isolated from plants and animals. Isoprene is highly reactive and its reactions are similar to those of butadiene. Russia dominates the world in terms of high purity isoprene capacity, production, and consumption. A principal route for the production of isoprene is recovery from ethylene by‐products streams. High purity isoprene is used almost in its entirety to produce polyisoprene. Isoprene emissions play an dominant role in atmospheric chemistry.
Liquid Crystals
Authors: Bisoyi Hari Krishna , Li Quan
Published: September 2014

Liquid crystals have become quintessential materials in our daily life. The creation of a multibillion dollar liquid crystal display (LCD) industry for information displays demonstrates how great economic prosperity can evolve from a pure curiosity‐driven academic research endeavor. Today, the number ofLCDs on our planet even surpasses its population. Display devices using liquid crystals as the active components like mobile phones, computer and television screens, projectorsetc. have enhanced the quality and comfort of people's life and have drastically revolutionized the way that we present information. In this chapter, we will discuss “Liquid Crystals”, the mysterious and fascinating state of matter. After a brief introduction of their scientific and technological significance, we describe what liquid crystals are and how to identify them followed by a brief history. Then, different liquid crystalline phase structures formed by different classes of materials are presented. The chapter is concluded by briefly highlighting the practical and potential applications of different classes of liquid crystals.
Sorbic Acid
Authors: Dorko Catherine L. , Ford George T. , Baggett Madelyn S. , Behling Alison R. , Carmen Harold E. , by Staff Updated
Published: September 2014

Sorbic acid is a white crystalline solid first isolated by hydrolysis of the oil distilled from unripened mountain ash berries. Interest in sorbic acid was minimal until it was discovered that sorbic acid has antimicrobial effects. Sorbic acid is widely used in food having a pH of 6.5 or below, where control of bacteria, molds, and yeasts is essential for safe and economical food storage. Most sorbic acid is produced by the reaction of crotonaldehdye and malonic acid in pyridine. Sorbic acid can be applied to food by any of several methods and includes direct addition, dipping or spraying with an aqueous sorbate solution, dusting with sorbate powder, or addition to food packaging materials. Sorbic acid as a preservative may release to the environment through various waste streams. Details are given for sorbic acid in margarine, wine, dairy products, seafood, fruit and vegetable products, bakery products,meat and poultry and animal feeds. Sorbic acid is considered generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use in food.
Smart Gels
Authors: Bag Dibyendu S. , Saxena Arvind K.
Published: September 2014

Stimuli‐responsive gels are known as smart gels. Such gels respond adaptively to a variety of external stimulation. Different classes of smart gels, according to the name of the stimulus, are thermoresponsive, pH‐responsive, photoresponsive, electroresponsive, magnetoresponsive gels, chemically activated gels, and others. Such smart gel materials are discussed in this article along with their synthesis, characterization, properties, and various applications such as drug delivery systems, thermoresponsive cell culture dishes, microfluidic gel photovoltaics, etc. The advantages and disadvantages of electroactive gels have been discussed for their application as actuators. Microporous and superporous gels, microgels/nanogels, shape‐memory and self‐healing gels, and fullerene (C60)‐containing nanostructured smart polymers/gels are also depicted in this article. The state‐of‐the‐art research and development of smart gels along with the opportunities and challenges of this emerging field of research are highlighted in this article.
Electron and Hole Mobility in Semiconductor Devices
Authors: Ghibaudo Gérard , Rafhay Quentin
Published: September 2014

Carrier mobility in a semiconductor is one of the most important parameters for the operation of electronic devices. Actually, the mobility measures the ability of free carriers (electrons or holes) to move in the material as it is subjected to an external electric field. The magnitude of the mobility directly impacts on the device performance since it determines the operation speed through the transit time across the device, the circuit operating frequency, or the sensitivity in magnetic sensors.

In this article, the basic aspects of electronic transport in a semiconductor will be addressed, first with a special emphasis on the mobility behavior. Then a brief review of the transport properties for Silicon and GaAs will be presented owing to typical electron and hole mobility data for majority and minority carriers. Finally, some specific mobility results for field effect transistors such as Si MOSFETs, GaAs heterostructure field effect transistors (HFET) as well as GaAs and Ge based MOSFETs will be discussed.
Fast Fourier Transforms in Electromagnetics
Authors: Le‐Wei Li Joshua , Guo Lan‐Wei
Published: September 2014

This Chapter review the fast Fourier transform (FFT) technique and its application to computational electromagnetics, especially to the fast solver algorithms including the Conjugate Gradient Fast Fourier Transform (CG‐FFT) method, Precorrected Fast Fourier Transform (pFFT) method, Adaptive Integral Method (AIM), Greens Function Interpolation with FFT (GI‐FFT) method and Integral Equations with FFT (IE‐FFT) method. The basic ideas used in the FFT applications are addressed while the brief introduction to integral equation method is conducted. The general formulation and procedure in the integral equation method, surface integral equations, volume integral equations, solutions to integral equations, and their implementations of fast Fourier transform algorithm are also briefed together with fast convolution using fast Fourier transform. Fast integral equation method developed based on fast Fourier transform are reviewed where conjugate gradient fast Fourier transform method, and precorrected fast Fourier transform method (where projection operators and interpolation operators are also highlighted), adaptive integral method, Greens function interpolation with FFT approach and integral equations with FFT method are also described. While the matching schemes for gradients of Green's functions are addressed, accuracy and complexity, memory requirement and computational cost, and error controls and estimations are also discussed.
Microwave Metamaterial Circuits
Authors: Vendik Irina
Published: September 2014

Electromagnetic metamaterials are usually defined as artificial effectively homogeneous structures with specific properties, that cannot be observed in natural materials. Different approaches are used for a description of the fundamental electromagnetic properties of metamaterials and the practical realization of these materials as well. Among them, the transmission line (TL) approach gives an efficient design tool for microwave applications. A conventional TL with the positive phase velocity behaves as a right‐handed transmission line (RH TL). An artificial RH TL is formed as a ladder network of capacitors connected in shunt and series inductors. The dual transmission line is designed as a ladder network of inductors connected in shunt and series capacitors. This line has the negative phase velocity and is referred to as the left‐handed transmission line (LH TL). A backward wave propagates along the LH TL, which can be considered as the one‐dimensional metamaterial. A more general model of an LH TL is the composite right/left handed (CRLH) structure. Many interesting features can be observed when a combination of RH TL and LH TL is used. The most important feature of the LH and RH TLs is that their dispersion characteristics are described by different equations. That can be used for many beneficial applications. Different combinations of LH and RH TLs are used for a design of miniature microwave devices with improved performance and enlarged functionality. Among them are microwave resonators and filters, microwave power divider/combiners, and microwave phase shifters. Multiband devices and tunable and reconfigurable microwave circuits are also under consideration.
Poly(2‐oxazoline)s
Authors: Verbraeken Bart , Lava Kathleen , Hoogenboom Richard
Published: September 2014

Research in the field of poly(2‐oxazoline)s (PAOx) is rapidly expanding as this polymer class combines high synthetic versatility and biocompatibility, opening up the way to highly functional (biocompatible) materials. PAOx are prepared by living cationic ring‐opening polymerization (CROP) of 2‐oxazolines. The variety of 2‐oxazoline monomers that are readily available or can easily be synthesized allows for tuning of polymer properties and introduction of diverse functionalities. Moreover, thanks to the living nature of CROP, well‐defined polymers with narrow molar mass distribution and high end group fidelity can be obtained. This article covers all aspects of PAOx ranging from the synthesis of 2‐oxazoline monomers, via in‐depth discussion on the CROP mechanism to the synthesis and properties of functional PAOx (co)polymers. The presented research demonstrates that owing to their structural adaptability and the so‐called “stealth” behavior, PAOx are well suited for a range of biomedical applications, including polymer therapeutics, scaffolds for three‐dimensional cell culture, surface modification, matrix excipient for solid dispersions, and antimicrobial agents.
Earth Observation Plan Focuses on User Needs and Measurements
Authors: Showstack Randy
Published: September 2014

The White House's new U.S. National Plan for Civil Earth Observations focuses on user needs and measurements while defining a framework for constructing a balanced portfolio of Earth observations and observing systems, officials with the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) said at a 4 September forum about the plan.
Human activities drive warming trend in the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Wendel JoAnna
Published: September 2014

Researchers have found that because of human activities, the Pacific Northwest has warmed 0.6°C–0.8°C since the beginning of the 20th century. These findings appear in a new paper published 5 May in the Journal of Climate (doi:10.1175/JHM‐D‐13‐0167.1).
Resources for Computational Geophysics Courses
Authors: Keers Henk , Rondenay Stéphane , Harlap Yaël , Nordmo Ivar
Published: September 2014

An important skill that students in solid Earth physics need to acquire is the ability to write computer programs that can be used for the processing, analysis, and modeling of geophysical data and phenomena. Therefore, this skill (which we call “computational geophysics”) is a core part of any undergraduate geophysics curriculum. In this Forum, we share our personal experience in teaching such a course.
Detecting Near‐Field Tsunamis off the Coast of British Columbia
Authors: Insua Tania Lado , Moran Kate
Published: September 2014

Geological and historical records of the coast of British Columbia (BC) and orally transmitted legends from the First Nations in the area indicate the recurrence of tsunamis in this region. Recent studies show a 40% to 80% probability of a local earthquake occurring in the next 50 years over the Cascadia subduction zone, generating a tsunami run‐up higher than 1.5 meters. Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) operates ocean observatories off the west coast of BC. Smart Oceans BC is a new multifaceted program to support coastal communities and decision makers by leveraging the unique capabilities of ONC's advanced cabled ocean observatories to inform public safety, marine safety, and environmental monitoring.
Schmandt Receives 2013 Keiiti Aki Young Scientist Award: Response
Authors: Schmandt Brandon
Published: September 2014

I appreciate Karen's generous words, and I am sincerely honored to receive this year's Aki Award. I would like to acknowledge that my research has been enabled by excellent mentors and colleagues and by a unique community of scientists. I was particularly lucky to wander into Gene Humphrey's office as a first‐year graduate student with a curiosity about western U.S. tectonics and seismology. Gene always matched my energy and enthusiasm and allowed me to find my path. Later, as a postdoc, I benefited from a similarly flexible and supportive environment in the Seismo Lab at Caltech. I also feel fortunate to be part of the seismology community. It is a special community that will strive to collect a world‐class data set, such as the EarthScope seismic data, and then openly put those data in the hands of any eager scientist. This unselfish and open‐minded perspective is a great motivation for me, and I expect it is for many young scientists. I am excited for the future as a member of the seismology community.
Upper mantle tomography in the northwestern Pacific region using triplicated P waves
Authors: Takeuchi Nozomu , Kawakatsu Hitoshi , Tanaka Satoru , Obayashi Masayuki , Chen Y. John , Ning Jieyuan , Grand Steve P. , Niu Fenglin , Ni James , Iritani Rryohei , Idehara Koki , Tonegawa Takashi
Published: September 2014

We conducted delay time tomography of the upper mantle beneath the northwestern Pacific using P data from NorthEast China Extended SeiSmic Array, F‐net, and nearby available stations. To improve resolution and accuracy in the vicinity of mantle discontinuities, we extracted traveltimes of both initial and secondary phases observed at triplication distances by using a waveform fitting technique. Compared with the model obtained by using only the initial phase, the resolution just above the 410 km discontinuity is especially improved, and low‐velocity anomalies beneath the Changbai Volcano are clearly observed down to the 410 km discontinuity. Compared with previous models, low‐velocity anomalies atop the 410 are more pronounced. The results of this study together with the previous receiver function analysis provide further support that we have hot material beneath the Changbai Volcano.
Energy transfer between wind waves and low‐frequency oscillations on a fringing reef, Ipan, Guam
Authors: Péquignet Anne‐Christine N. , Becker Janet M. , Merrifield Mark A.
Published: September 2014

Field observations from a Guam fringing reef are used to examine the cross‐reef energy exchange between high‐frequency sea and swell (SS) and low‐frequency infragravity (IG) and far infragravity (fIG) waves. Energetic SS waves (significant wave heights 2–4 m) break at the outer reef, leading to weak (<1 m) conditions on the shallow reef flat. As SS waves shoal on the reef face before breaking, IG and fIG energy fluxes both increase through nonlinear energy transfer from the SS waves. In contrast, through the surf zone, the IG energy flux decreases whereas fIG flux increases. The decrease in IG energy flux through the surf zone is attributed to breaking SS waves working against the incident bound IG wave energy, which dominates breakpoint forced IG waves, yielding a net flux decrease. In contrast, fIG energy flux increases through the surf zone, consistent with breakpoint forcing and the absence of an energetic bound fIG component on the reef face. IG and fIG energy fluxes decay on the shallow reef flat due primarily to frictional dissipation, with tidal modulations attributed to nonlinear conversion and friction. Forcing at fIG frequencies may lead to a normal mode response on the reef with comparable incoming and outgoing fIG energy fluxes at the outer reef flat, depending on water level over the reef flat and the degree of frictional dissipation.
On Cognition, Need, and Action: How Working Memory and Need for Cognition Influence Leisure Activities
Authors: Therriault David J. , Redifer Jenni L. , Lee Christine S. , Wang Ye
Published: September 2014

The present study examined the relationships among college students' need for cognition (NFC), their working memory capacity, and their preferred leisure activities. Results indicated that scoring higher on the NFC scale was related to participants engaging in cognitively higher load leisure activities (e.g., writing) than lower load leisure activities (e.g., watching TV). We did not find a relationship between participants' cognitive ability (as measured by an attentional capacity task) and their choice of leisure activities. In sum, personal dispositions contributed to the choice and complexity of people's leisure activities, whereas cognitive ability did not. These findings provide a theoretical framework for further exploring the relationships between disposition, cognition, and action. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
1H‐ and 13C‐NMR spectroscopic study of chemical equilibria in the system acetaldehyde + water
Authors: Scheithauer Andreas , von Harbou Erik , Hasse Hans , Grützner Thomas , Rijksen Christiaan , Zollinger Daniel , Thiel Werner R.
Published: September 2014

Acetaldehyde is an important intermediate in the chemical industry and often used in mixtures with water. These mixtures are reactive multicomponent systems, as acetaldehyde forms oligomers with water. Quantitative studies of the resulting speciation are scarce in the literature and limited to the formation of the smallest oligomer, ethane‐1,1‐diol. Therefore, in the present work, a comprehensive study of chemical equilibria in mixtures of acetaldehyde and water was carried out by quantitative 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR spectroscopy. The study covers temperatures between 275 and 338 K and overall acetaldehyde mole fractions between about 0.05 and 0.95 mol/mol. The peak assignment is given for both the 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR spectra. From the speciation data, obtained from the peak area fractions, numbers for the chemical equilibrium constants of the oligomer formation are obtained and a correlation is presented. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 177–187, 2015
Kinetics of formation of oil‐in‐water emulsions using in situ rheo‐optical measurements
Authors: Covis Rudy , Marie Emmanuelle , Durand Alain , Baravian Christophe
Published: September 2014

The kinetics of mechanical emulsification in vane geometry was investigated using an original rheo‐optic device. Hexadecane‐in‐water micronic emulsions were prepared using a nonionic polymeric surfactant (Brij700®) as stabilizer. The viscosity of aqueous phase was adjusted using a commercial viscosifier (Emkarox®) which ensured Newtonian behavior to the continuous phase. The influences of two variables (rotational speed and oil volume fraction) on the kinetics of droplet fragmentation were examined in detail. Rotational speed was varied between 50 and 100 rad s−1 and had a strong effect on the kinetics of emulsion formation which was discussed on the basis of droplet fragmentation by shear forces. On the contrary, oil volume fraction (between 20 and 60% v/v) showed no marked effect, which appeared as an important result for scale‐up considerations. A theoretical description of fragmentation mechanism was proposed and experimental results were compared to calculated values. © 2014 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 277–284, 2015