bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using MODIS Land Surface Temperatures for Permafrost Thermal Modeling in Beiluhe Basin on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau
Authors: Li Anyuan , Xia Caichu , Bao Chunyan , Yin Guoan
Published: September 2019

It is essential to monitor the ground temperature over large areas to understand and predict the effects of climate change on permafrost due to its rapid warming on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau (QTP). Land surface temperature (LST) is an important parameter for the energy budget of permafrost environments. Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) LST products are especially valuable for detecting permafrost thermal dynamics across the QTP. This study presents a comparison of MODIS-LST values with in situ near-surface air temperature (Ta), and ground surface temperature (GST) obtained from 2014 to 2016 at five sites in Beiluhe basin, a representative permafrost region on the QTP. Furthermore, the performance of the thermal permafrost model forced by MODIS-LSTs was studied. Averaged LSTs are found to strongly correlated with Ta and GST with R2 values being around 0.9. There is a significant warm bias (4.43–4.67 °C) between averaged LST and Ta, and a slight warm bias (0.67–2.66 °C) between averaged LST and GST. This study indicates that averaged MODIS-LST is supposed to be a useful data source for permafrost monitoring. The modeled ground temperatures and active-layer thickness have a good agreement with the measurements, with a difference of less than 1.0 °C and 0.4 m, respectively.
Industrial Applications of Terahertz Sensing: State of Play
Authors: Naftaly Mira , Vieweg Nico , Deninger Anselm
Published: September 2019

This paper is a survey of existing and upcoming industrial applications of terahertz technologies, comprising sections on polymers, paint and coatings, pharmaceuticals, electronics, petrochemicals, gas sensing, and paper and wood industries. Finally, an estimate of the market size and growth rates is given, as obtained from a comparison of market reports.
Continuous Distant Measurement of the User’s Heart Rate in Human-Computer Interaction Applications
Authors: Przybyło Jaromir
Published: September 2019

In real world scenarios, the task of estimating heart rate (HR) using video plethysmography (VPG) methods is difficult because many factors could contaminate the pulse signal (i.e., a subjects’ movement, illumination changes). This article presents the evaluation of a VPG system designed for continuous monitoring of the user’s heart rate during typical human-computer interaction scenarios. The impact of human activities while working at the computer (i.e., reading and writing text, playing a game) on the accuracy of HR VPG measurements was examined. Three commonly used signal extraction methods were evaluated: green (G), green-red difference (GRD), blind source separation (ICA). A new method based on an excess green (ExG) image representation was proposed. Three algorithms for estimating pulse rate were used: power spectral density (PSD), autoregressive modeling (AR) and time domain analysis (TIME). In summary, depending on the scenario being studied, different combinations of signal extraction methods and the pulse estimation algorithm ensure optimal heart rate detection results. The best results were obtained for the ICA method: average RMSE = 6.1 bpm (beats per minute). The proposed ExG signal representation outperforms other methods except ICA (RMSE = 11.2 bpm compared to 14.4 bpm for G and 13.0 bmp for GRD). ExG also is the best method in terms of proposed success rate metric (sRate).
A Dynamic Access Probability Adjustment Strategy for Coded Random Access Schemes
Authors: Sun Jingyun , Liu Rongke , Paolini Enrico
Published: September 2019

In this paper, a dynamic access probability adjustment strategy for coded random access schemes based on successive interference cancellation (SIC) is proposed. The developed protocol consists of judiciously tuning the access probability, therefore controlling the number of transmitting users, in order to resolve medium access control (MAC) layer congestion states in high load conditions. The protocol is comprised of two steps: Estimation of the number of transmitting users during the current MAC frame and adjustment of the access probability to the subsequent MAC frame, based on the performed estimation. The estimation algorithm exploits a posteriori information, i.e., available information at the end of the SIC process, in particular it relies on both the frame configuration (residual number of collision slots) and the recovered users configuration (vector of recovered users) to effectively reduce mean-square error (MSE). During the access probability adjustment phase, a target load threshold is employed, tailored to the packet loss rate in the finite frame length case. Simulation results revealed that the developed estimator was able to achieve remarkable performance owing to the information gathered from the SIC procedure. It also illustrated how the proposed dynamic access probability strategy can resolve congestion states efficiently.
A Shallow Convolutional Learning Network for Classification of Cancers Based on Copy Number Variations
Authors: AlShibli Ahmad , Mathkour Hassan
Published: September 2019

Genomic copy number variations (CNVs) are among the most important structural variations. They are linked to several diseases and cancer types. Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. Several studies were conducted to investigate the causes of cancer and its association with genomic changes to enhance its management and improve the treatment opportunities. Classification of cancer types based on the CNVs falls in this category of research. We reviewed the recent, most successful methods that used machine learning algorithms to solve this problem and obtained a dataset that was tested by some of these methods for evaluation and comparison purposes. We propose three deep learning techniques to classify cancer types based on CNVs: a six-layer convolutional net (CNN6), residual six-layer convolutional net (ResCNN6), and transfer learning of pretrained VGG16 net. The results of the experiments performed on the data of six cancer types demonstrated a high accuracy of 86% for ResCNN6 followed by 85% for CNN6 and 77% for VGG16. The results revealed a lower prediction accuracy for one of the classes (uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC)). Repeating the experiments after excluding this class reveals improvements in the accuracies: 91% for CNN6 and 92% for Res CNN6. We observed that UCEC and ovarian serous carcinoma (OV) share a considerable subset of their features, which causes a struggle for learning in the classifiers. We repeated the experiment again by balancing the six classes through oversampling of the training dataset and the result was an enhancement in both overall and UCEC classification accuracies.
Structural and Functional Sensing of Bio-Tissues Based on Compressive Sensing Spectral Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Yi Luying , Guo Xiangyu , Sun Liqun , Hou Bo
Published: September 2019

In this paper, a full depth 2D CS-SDOCT approach is proposed, which combines two-dimensional (2D) compressive sensing spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (CS-SDOCT) and dispersion encoding (ED) technologies, and its applications in structural imaging and functional sensing of bio-tissues are studied. Specifically, by introducing a large dispersion mismatch between the reference arm and sample arm in SD-OCT system, the reconstruction of the under-sampled A-scan data and the removal of the conjugated images can be achieved simultaneously by only two iterations. The under-sampled B-scan data is then reconstructed using the classic CS reconstruction algorithm. For a 5 mm × 3.2 mm fish-eye image, the conjugated image was reduced by 31.4 dB using 50% × 50% sampled data (250 depth scans and 480 spectral sampling points per depth scan), and all A-scan data was reconstructed in only 1.2 s. In addition, we analyze the application performance of the CS-SDOCT in functional sensing of locally homogeneous tissue. Simulation and experimental results show that this method can correctly reconstruct the extinction coefficient spectrum under reasonable iteration times. When 8 iterations were used to reconstruct the A-scan data in the imaging experiment of fisheye, the extinction coefficient spectrum calculated using 50% × 50% data was approximately consistent with that obtained with 100% data.
Sensitivity Enhancement of a Concave Shaped Optical Fiber Refractive Index Sensor Covered with Multiple Au Nanowires
Authors: Pathak A. K. , Rahman B. M. A. , Singh V. K. , Kumari S.
Published: September 2019

In the present paper, a new kind of concave shaped refractive index sensor (CSRIS) exploiting localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) is proposed and numerically optimized. The LSPR effect between polaritons and the core guided mode of designed CSRIS is used to enhance the sensing performance. The sensor is characterized for two types of sensing structures coated with gold (Au) film and Au nanowires (AuNWs), respectively. The influence of structural parameters such as the distance (D) of the concave shaped channel (CSC) from the core, the diameter of the nanowire (dn) and the size (s) of the CSC are investigated here. In comparison to Au film, the AuNWs are shown to significantly enhance the sensitivity and the performance of the designed sensor. An enhanced sensitivity of 4471 nm/RIU (refractive index unit) is obtained with AuNWs, for a wide range of analytes refractive index (na) varying between 1.33 to 1.38. However, for conventional Au film; the sensitivity of 808.57 nm/RIU is obtained for the same range of analytes.
Indoor Crowd 3D Localization in Big Buildings from Wi-Fi Access Anonymous Data
Authors: Kamińska-Chuchmała Anna , Graña Manuel
Published: September 2019

Indoor crowd localization and counting in big public buildings pose problems of infrastructure deployment, signal processing, and privacy. Conventional approaches based on optical cameras, either in the visible or infrared range, received signal strength in wireless networks, sound or chemical sensing in sensor networks need careful calibration, noise removal, and sophisticated data processing to achieve results in limited scenarios. Moreover, personal data protection is a growing concern, so that detection methods that preserve the privacy of people are highly desirable. The aim of this paper is to provide a technique that may generate estimations of the localization of people in a big public building using anonymous data from already-deployed Wi-Fi infrastructure. We present a method applying geostatistical techniques to the access data acquired from Access Points (AP) in an open Wi-Fi network. Specifically, only the time series of the number of accesses per AP is required. Geostatistical methods produce a 3D high-quality spatial distribution representation of the people inside the building based on the interaction of their mobile devices with the APs. We report encouraging results obtained from data acquired at a building of Wroclaw University of Science and Technology.
Design and Implementation of a Narrow-Band Intersatellite Network with Limited Onboard Resources for IoT
Authors: Yoon Zizung , Frese Walter , Briess Klaus
Published: September 2019

Satellite networks are inevitable for the ubiquitous connectivity of M2M (machine to machine) and IoT (internet of things) devices. Advances in the miniaturization of satellite technology make networks in LEO (Low Earth Orbit) predestined to serve as a backhaul for narrow-band M2M communication. To reduce latency and increase network responsivity, intersatellite link capability among nodes is a key component in satellite design. The miniaturization of nodes to enable the economical deployment of large networks is also crucial. Thus, this article addresses these key issues and presents a design methodology and implementation of an adaptive network architecture considering highly limited resources, as is the case in a nanosatellite (≈10 kg) network. Potentially applicable multiple access techniques are evaluated. The results show that a time division duplex scheme with session-oriented P2P (point to point) protocols in the data link layer is more suitable for limited resources. Furthermore, an applicable layer model is defined and a protocol implementation is outlined. To demonstrate the technical feasibility of a nanosatellite-based communication network, the S-NET (S band network with nanosatellites) mission has been developed, which consists of four nanosatellites, to demonstrate multi-point crosslink with 100 kbps data rates over distances up to 400 km and optimized communication protocols, pushing the technological boundaries of nanosatellites. The flight results of S-NET prove the feasibility of these nanosatellites as a space-based M2M backhaul.
Performance Evaluation of Reverse Logistics: Opportunities for Future Research
Authors: Voigt Derek , Casarotto Filho Nelson , Macedo Mayara Atherino , Braga Thais Guerra , da Rocha Rodrigo Ulisses Garbin
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to analyze the characteristics of the scientific research that approaches Reverse Logistics (RL) from the perspective of Performance Evaluation (PE). For this purpose, ProKnow-C was used to select 21 articles to compose a Bibliographical Portfolio (BP). Among the results, we mention Govindan, Sarkis, Zhu and Lai as prominent authors. By analyzing the articles, it was perceived that most of them perform the RL and PE fields separately and present tools that consider the alignment of the indicators with the strategy. Also, the articles lack of a structured PE process that could serve as a subsidy to the practice of logistics management. The results present that there is a theoretical gap in the literature of a PE model of RL.
Impact of Game-Based Learning on Understanding Lean Construction Principles
Authors: Herrera Rodrigo F. , Sanz M. Amalia , Montalbán-Domingo Laura , García-Segura Tatiana , Pellicer Eugenio
Published: September 2019

Lean philosophy introduces a new approach for maximizing value while minimizing waste, facilitating sustainable practices at the same time. Companies have become aware of these improvements and are demanding students well formed in Lean concepts. However, to meet this demand, universities must adapt their curricula to include courses that use alternative teaching methods to connect to real contexts. This paper seeks to analyze the benefits of lecture- and game-based learning for developing students’ understanding of Lean Construction Principles. A case study is carried out in the “Lean Construction” course of the Master of Planning and Management in Civil Engineering of the Universitat Politècnica de València. A combination of a traditional lecture and three simple games is applied. Descriptive statistics, the Mann–Whitney U-test, and the Wilcoxon test are performed to analyze the impact of each activity on the understanding of each Lean Construction Principle. Results highlight the importance of combining the lecture class with multiple games to effectively impart knowledge about Lean principles and their application in the construction industry. In addition, they emphasize the importance of selecting the game according to the Lean principle to be taught.
Consumer Perceptions Related to Clothing Repair and Community Mending Events: A Circular Economy Perspective
Authors: Diddi Sonali , Yan Ruoh-Nan
Published: September 2019

While research focusing on clothing repair and community mending events as part of sustainable clothing consumption practices has been conducted in some developed European countries (e.g., the U.K. and the Netherlands), little research has examined consumer clothes mending/repairing behavior in a U.S. context. The purpose of this study was to explore U.S. consumers’ specific barriers and motivations to engage in clothing repair and their likelihood to participate in clothes mending and community mending events. An intercept survey approach was used to administer a questionnaire to participants who were attendees at three different events in a mid-sized city in Colorado, U.S. across a two-week time span. Data were collected from 254 participants. Path analysis was conducted to test four sets of hypotheses. The results suggested that consumers’ perceived barriers negatively influenced their mending frequency. Consumer’s perceived motivations positively influenced their attitudes toward mending, their mending frequency, and sustainable post-consumption clothing behaviors (SPCBs). Furthermore, participants’ attitudes toward mending, mending frequency, and their SPCBs positively influenced their intentions to mend clothes and to participate in community mending events. The current study advances the understanding of US consumers’ clothes mending behaviors and provides critical implications for local governments and education systems.
Advancing Water Sustainability in Megacities: Comparative Study of São Paulo and Delhi Using a Social-Ecological System Framework
Authors: Aggarwal Rimjhim M. , Haglund LaDawn
Published: September 2019

In this paper, we frame the problem of urban water sustainability in megacities as a social-ecological system (SES) to examine the underlying coupling of social and ecological factors and processes. Based on our empirical research of two major megacities of the global south, São Paulo and Delhi, we have developed an urban water SES module within the broader SES framework proposed by Ostrom. The module’s multilevel nested structure consists of the following four subsystems: water resource and infrastructure, settlements, governance, and actors. A distinct advantage of our module is that it enables us to capture the plurality of settlements patterns (from formal to informal settlements), actor networks, and governance patterns found in cities of the global south and how these uniquely shape and are shaped by the process of rapid urbanization. We use this module as: (a) an analytical tool to identify the different variables and processes within each subsystem, which through their interactions, have influenced the trajectory of water systems in these cities; (b) a diagnostic tool in a comparative setting to examine why desired goals in terms of service delivery and/or governance were achieved (or not); and (c) a prescriptive tool to identify cross-learnings and practical lessons.
Optimizing Multimodal Transportation Routes Considering Container Use
Authors: Chen Dandan , Zhang Yong , Gao Liangpeng , Thompson Russell G.
Published: September 2019

This study focuses on the route selection problem of multimodal transportation: When facing a shortage of containers, a transport plan must be designed for freight forwarders that realizes the optimal balance between transportation time and transportation cost. This problem is complicated by two important characteristics: (1) The use of containers is related to transport routes, and they interact with each other; and (2) Different types of containers should be used in different time ranges for different modes of transportation. To solve this problem, we establish a multi-objective optimization model for minimizing the total transportation time, transportation cost and container usage cost. To solve the multi-objective programming model, the normalized normal constraint method (NNCM) is used to obtain Pareto solutions. We conducted a case study considering the transportation of iron ore in Panzhihua City, Sichuan Province. The results demonstrate that using railway containers and railway transportation as much as possible in route selection can effectively solve the problem of container shortage and balance transportation time and transportation cost.
Evolutionary Assessment of the Ecological Governance under the Metropolitan Background: Evidence from Chongming Eco-Island, Shanghai, China
Authors: Sheng Rong , Lin Tuo
Published: September 2019

Just as its general theoretical foundation does, the quantitative evaluation of ecological governance does not have a sound research compilation. This study aims to construct the ecological governance evaluation model and determine the indicator weights, premised on quantitative methods. The evaluation model is expected to embody the new features of the contemporary ecological governance, especially the metropolitan background and regional functions. Given the previous studies and conceptualizations, it is proposed based on (1) fundamental socio-economic development, (2) ecological environment quality, (3) ecological governance and innovation, and (4) regional interconnected functions. The model covers multiple index layers and various indicators, and the entropy weight method is applied to obtain the weights. The results of the specific case in Chongming show the indicator of the number of beds for old-age nursing homes in urban and rural areas, the area of real afforestation, the number of approvals in the project environmental assessment and the freight volume have the biggest weights in each of the four aspects respectively. The level of ecological governance in Chongming Island has been continuously improving, especially in 2015 and 2016, with increases doubling or tripling those of the previous two years. The index values of the four aspects generally showed an upward trend. The comprehensive social economic level and the regional interconnected level continue to grow. The levels of ecological environment quality and the ecological governance and innovation fluctuated in 2013 and 2014, but returned to growth in 2015, and increased significantly in 2016.
Intellectual Capital, Technological Innovation and Firm Performance: Evidence from China’s Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Xu Jian , Shang Yue , Yu Weizhen , Liu Feng
Published: September 2019

Intellectual capital (IC) is considered to be a main driver of organizational success in the knowledge economy. This study examines the impacts of three IC components, including human capital (HC), structural capital (SC), and relational capital (RC), on technological innovation and firm performance. Data are collected from 1112 manufacturing listed companies in China during 2013–17. Using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), the results show that HC and SC exert a positive impact on firm performance while RC has a negative impact; SC has a positive influence on technological innovation while HC has a negative influence; technological innovation can enhance the firm’s performance. In addition, technological innovation partially mediates the relationship between SC and firm performance. This study will bridge the gap in research by investigating the impacts of IC components on technological innovation and firm performance in developing countries.
Is the Current Trend of Income Inequality Sustainable?
Authors: Choi Sungmun
Published: September 2019

Rising income inequality has become a major concern for policymakers and academic researchers. Very high levels of income inequality may result in serious social, political, and economic problems. In this paper, I analyze the trend of Gini index, which is the most commonly used measure for income inequality, to see if the current trend is sustainable in the long run for OECD and major non-OECD countries. Specifically, I use autoregressive time series models to test the sustainability of income inequality. I first analyze the Gini index to see if the time series is stationary and has a steady-state value below 1. If the series has a unit root, I take the first difference and check if the first difference is stationary and has a 0 or negative steady-state value. Results show that while many countries show signs of sustainability, there are a few countries that do not.
An Empirical Examination of Sustainable Supply Chain Risk and Integration Practices: A Performance-Based Evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Syed Muzzammil Wasim , Li Ji Zu , Junaid Muhammad , Ye Xue , Ziaullah Muhammad
Published: September 2019

In today’s emerging environment sustainable supply chain risks play a vital role in firms’ performance more than ever, because risks tend to disrupt sustainable operations, which ultimately reduces a firm’s performance, but these risks can be managed through supply chain integration practices, which leads to higher firms’ performance. Therefore, this paper examines the relationship between sustainable supply chain risks, supply chain integration, and firm’s financial performance. This study employs 296 survey observations along with financial data of published annual statements to estimate the quantitative causal-effects of three dimensions of sustainable supply chain risks on supply chain integration and financial performance. The findings of the study suggest that sustainable internal business process risks, sustainable supply risks, and sustainable demand risks have a negative relationship with supply chain integration. Furthermore, results of the study explored that all the three supply chain integration practices have a positive impact on firms’ financial performance, which suggests that implementing supply chain integration practices reduces the effect of supply chain risks and increases the firm’s performance.
The Effect of Airport Self-Service Characteristics on Passengers’ Perceived Value, Satisfaction, and Behavioral Intention: Based on the SOR Model
Authors: Kim Jong-Hyeon , Park Jin-Woo
Published: September 2019

This paper analyzes the effects of airport self-service characteristics on behavioral intention through the perceived values and satisfaction in passengers based on the Stimulus-Organism-Response (SOR) model. For this purpose, a survey was conducted with passengers having used self-service technologies (SSTs) at Incheon International Airport. A total of 400 questionnaires were then analyzed using structural equation modeling. Four SST factors—functionality, enjoyment, customization, and convenience—were found to have significant effects on behavioral intention through the perceived values and customer satisfaction. As for the moderating effects of self-efficacy and waiting time, significant differences were found in the effects of the airport self-service characteristics. The results of this study are expected to be useful as basic data to aid strategies to develop and improve SSTs at Incheon International Airport.
Evaluation Model and Empirical Study on the Competitiveness of the County Silicon Crystal Industry
Authors: Pan Yujie , Peng Ke , Peng Hongxia , Zhang Jing , Zeng Min , Huang Changsheng
Published: September 2019

The silicon crystal industry is an emerging industry that uses silicon ore to obtain crystalline silicon and silicon micropower through processing. The China silicon crystal industry generally suffers from poor market supervision and low added-value products, which decreases the industry’s competitiveness and affects overall economic development. This study used the SWOT–PEST model to analyze the internal and external factors, constructed the county competitiveness evaluation index system with four dimensions and 20 variables, and used the gray correlation evaluation model to conduct empirical research on data on the competitiveness of the silicon crystal industry in Suichuan and in another three counties. Compared with the industrial competitiveness in the other three counties, the competitiveness in Suichuan County is still relatively low, but it has been increasing rapidly in recent years. The silicon crystal industry in Suichuan County has great advantages, such as resource endowment, energy, and policy support. The main factors affecting the competitiveness of the silicon crystal industry in Suichuan County are the number of brands, the situation of foreign exports, and the output of silicon products. Therefore, Suichuan County should adjust the silicon crystal industry based on these evaluation results to promote the sustainable development of this industry.
Assessing Sustainability in Rural Water Supply Systems in Developing Countries Using a Novel Tool Based on Multi-Criteria Analysis
Authors: Domínguez Isabel , Oviedo-Ocaña Edgar Ricardo , Hurtado Karen , Barón Andrés , Hall Ralph P.
Published: September 2019

Rural water supply systems (RWSS) in developing countries typically have deficiencies that threaten their sustainability. This research used Multi-Criteria Analysis and the Analytical Hierarchy Process to identify indicators that can be used to assess the sustainability of RWSS. The assessment tool developed is composed of 17 attributes with 95 quantifiable indicators. The tool enables the assessment of the sustainability of RWSS, using data collected through semi-structured interviews, social cartography, technical inspection, household surveys, and water monitoring. The tool was applied in a case study of a RWSS in the Andean region of Colombia, illustrating a participatory, holistic, and structured assessment that provided a single sustainability measure for the system (3.0/5.0). The tool’s completeness is represented by its extensive attributes and indicators that deliver a robust baseline on the state of a system, help identify improvement strategies, and monitor system performance over time that can assists rural community organizations with RWSS management.
From Top–Down Regulation to Bottom–Up Solutions: Reconfiguring Governance of Agricultural Nutrient Loading to Waters
Authors: Belinskij Antti , Iho Antti , Paloniitty Tiina , Soininen Niko
Published: September 2019

Animal agriculture is shifting toward larger farms and regional agglomerations in many countries. In step with this development, manure nutrients have started accumulating regionally, and are leading to increasing eutrophication problems. Nevertheless, the same trend may also prompt innovations in manure treatment. For example, Valio Ltd (the largest dairy processer in Finland) is planning a network of facilities that would remove water from manure, fraction the nutrients in it, and produce biogas from the excess methane. One of the main hurdles in developing this technology is that the current regulatory framework does not support a shift from diffuse loading, which is seen in the traditional application of manure on fields, to point-source loading; the regulations may even prevent such a change. This article analyzes a governance framework that addresses this dilemma in EU–Finland, and discusses how the governance described could curtail the nutrient loading of agriculture to waters. The approach is based on adaptive governance theory. We argue that traditional top–down regulation, which emphasizes food security, contains serious shortcomings when it comes to managing agricultural nutrient loading to waters, and that the current regulatory framework does not necessarily have the adaptive capacity to facilitate new, bottom–up solutions for manure treatment. Interestingly, the strict water quality requirements of the EU Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) open new windows of opportunity for such solutions, and thus for improving the overall sustainability of animal agriculture.
Assessing the Vulnerabilities of Current and Future Production Systems in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Naqvi Syed Asif Ali , Nadeem Abdul Majeed , Iqbal Muhammad Amjed , Ali Sadia , Naseem Asia
Published: September 2019

Mankind is in peril and there are many reasons for this; however, climate change precedes all other reasons. Problems of poor farming communities are augmented due to the menace of climate change. This study endeavors to determine the effect on farming communities of both climate change and a situation without climate change. To carry out the study, three different districts were selected (Rawalpindi, Chakwal, and Layyah). Impact of the climate vagaries on per capita income, farm returns, and poverty of the respondents was taken into consideration. To achieve pathways analysis, regional representative agricultural pathways were used. The decision support system for agrotechnology transfer (DSSAT) crop growth model was employed for wheat-related simulations. The tradeoff analysis model for multidimensional impact assessment (TOA-MD) model was used for economic analysis. The results lend credence to the aforementioned nuisance of climate change, as the findings which came through were negatively affecting farm returns, per capita income, and poverty of the farmers. The negative impact applies to both current and future production systems. Farmers are up against the wall because of climate change and they will have to adopt new innovations to raise their productivity.
Red deer (Cervus elaphus) Did Not Play the Role of Maintenance Host for Bluetongue Virus in France: The Burden of Proof by Long-Term Wildlife Monitoring and Culicoides Snapshots
Authors: Rossi Sophie , Balenghien Thomas , Viarouge Cyril , Faure Eva , Zanella Gina , Sailleau Corinne , Mathieu Bruno , Delécolle Jean-Claude , Ninio Camille , Garros Claire , Gardès Laëtitia , Tholoniat Christophe , Ariston Agnès , Gauthier Dominique , Mondoloni Stevan , Barboiron Aurélie , Pellerin Maryline , Gibert Philippe , Novella Corinne , Barbier Stéphane , Guillaumat Etienne , Zientara Stéphan , Vitour Damien , Bréard Emmanuel
Published: September 2019

Bluetongue virus (BTV) is a Culicoides-borne pathogen infecting both domestic and wild ruminants. In Europe, the Red Deer (Cervus elaphus) (RD) is considered a potential BTV reservoir, but persistent sylvatic cycle has not yet been demonstrated. In this paper, we explored the dynamics of BTV1 and BTV8 serotypes in the RD in France, and the potential role of that species in the re-emergence of BTV8 in livestock by 2015 (i.e., 5 years after the former last domestic cases). We performed 8 years of longitudinal monitoring (2008–2015) among 15 RD populations and 3065 individuals. We compared Culicoides communities and feeding habits within domestic and wild animal environments (51,380 samples). Culicoides diversity (>30 species) varied between them, but bridge-species able to feed on both wild and domestic hosts were abundant in both situations. Despite the presence of competent vectors in natural environments, BTV1 and BTV8 strains never spread in RD along the green corridors out of the domestic outbreak range. Decreasing antibody trends with no PCR results two years after the last domestic outbreak suggests that seropositive young RD were not recently infected but carried maternal antibodies. We conclude that RD did not play a role in spreading or maintaining BTV in France.
Impact of Maternal Immunity on Congenital Cytomegalovirus Birth Prevalence and Infant Outcomes: A Systematic Review
Authors: Coppola Tiziana , Mangold Jesse F. , Cantrell Sarah , Permar Sallie R.
Published: September 2019

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is the leading non-genetic cause of sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), and efforts are geared towards prevention through vaccine development. Transmission rates following primary maternal infection occur at rates of 30–40%, however reported placental rates upon non-primary maternal infection is reported to be less than <4%. There is significant debate about whether this reduction in transmission rate is due to pre-existing maternal immunity, which could identify possible immunologic targets for vaccines. To address this question, we performed a systemic review of the literature using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. We identified cohort studies in high CMV seroprevalent (>80%) areas or in developing regions that examined a cohort of at least 50 infants for congenital CMV acquisition. We identified 19 articles that met criteria and were further categorized based on pre-conception serology, maternal seroprevalence, or previously known seroprevalence. Birth prevalence rates ranged from 0.4% to 6% (median 1.1%), with the studies reporting on clinical outcome (16/19 studies) noting the majority of infected infants as asymptomatic. We also utilized a recent study that differentiated primary maternal infections from chronic infections in a highly seropositive population to calculate a placental transmission rate in women with pre-existing immunity compared to that of no pre-existing immunity. This work confirms a low cCMV birth prevalence in highly seropositive populations, indicates via a calculated placental transmission rate that the CMV placental transmission rate is lower in non-primary infection than that of primary infection, and reveals gaps in data for further research aiming to identify targets for vaccine development.
Sertoli Cell Tumor (SCT) in a Captive Black Bear (Ursus americanus)
Authors: Elfadl Ahmed K. , Park SunYoung , Ullah H M Arif , Youn Soong-Hee , Chung Myung-Jin , Son Ji-Yoon , Lee Jae-Yeong , Lee Seoung-Woo , Lee A-Rang , Baek Su-Min , Jeon Sul-Gi , Lee Eun-Joo , Hong Il-Hwa , Park Jin-Kyu , Jeong Kyu-Shik
Published: September 2019

A black bear of 29-year-old (Ursus americanus) died unexpectedly in captivity without any gross lesions or clinical signs. We identified a firm, lobulated, yellowish tan, and well-circumscribed mass embedded inside the testicular tissue at the time of necropsy. The tumor sections exhibited soft necrotic and hemorrhagic areas beneath its capsule. Histologically, the tumor comprised Sertoli cells arranged in tubules and solid sheets supported by prominent fibrous connective tissues. The Sertoli cells were positive for vimentin and ER-β expression, whereas it showed negative staining for inhibin-α, cytokeratin 19, and S-100. To the best of our knowledge, this is the rare case report of testicular Sertoli cell tumor in black bear.
Exploring an Alternative Configuration of the Hydroclimatic Modeling Chain, Based on the Notion of Asynchronous Objective Functions
Authors: Ricard Simon , Sylvain Jean-Daniel , Anctil François
Published: September 2019

This study explores an alternative configuration of the hydroclimatic modeling chain around the notion of asynchronous objective-function (AOF). AOFs are calibration criteria purposely ignoring the correlation between observed and simulated variables. Within the suggested alternative configuration, the hydrologic model is being forced and calibrated with bias corrected climate variables over the reference period instead of historical meteorological observations. Consequently, the alternative configuration circumvent the redundant usage of climate observation operated within conventional configurations for statistical post-processing of simulated climate variables and calibration of the hydrologic model. AOFs optimize statistical properties of hydroclimatic projections, preserving the sequence of events imbedded within the forcing climate model. Both conventional and alternative configurations of the hydroclimatic modeling chain are implemented over a mid-size nivo-pluvial catchment located in the Saint-Lawrence Valley, Canada. The WaSiM-ETH hydrological model is forced with a bias-corrected member of the Canadian Regional Climate Model Large Ensemble (CRCM5-LE). Five AOFs are designed and compared to the common Kling-Gupta efficiency (KGE) metric. Forced with observations, AOFs tend to provide a hydrologic response comparable to KGE during the nival season and moderately degraded during the pluvial season. Using AOFs, the alternative configuration of the hydroclimatic modeling chain provides more coherent hydrologic projections relative to a conventional configuration.
Comparaison du niveau des prix de la consommation en France et à l'étranger
Authors: Devaux Andrée
Published: September 2019

Sur la base des travaux effectués par les organismes internationaux, des comparaisons approximatives des niveaux des prix peuvent être tentées sous trois angles différents : consommation nationale des pays, consommation propre à des familles de salariés, consommation particulière de catégories à revenus plus élevés (fonctionnaires internationaux). Compte tenu des réserves qu'appellent les méthodes d'enquête et de calcul, les résultats, actualisés à la fin de 1959, montrent que, sous l'angle de la consommation nationale, les prix français sont, dans l'ensemble, inférieurs aux prix belges, à peu près égaux aux prix britanniques, un peu plus hauts que les prix italiens, mais sensiblement supérieurs aux prix allemands et néerlandais. Si l'on considère les consommations des familles de travailleurs, on ne relève pas de différences très marquées entre les prix de la France et ceux des autres pays du Marché Commun, à l'exclusion cependant des Pays-Bas, où la vie est nettement meilleur marché, mais les prix français paraissent, sous cet angle, plus élevés que les prix britanniques. Enfin pour les fonctionnaires internationaux, le coût de la vie à Paris serait du même ordre qu'à Rome, mais plus cher qu'à Bruxelles, La Haye et Londres. Le niveau des prix alimentaires français, considéré sous l'angle de la consommation nationale, paraît très inférieur à celui des États-Unis et des pays européens, sauf les Pays-Bas. Pour les travailleurs, le niveau des prix de l'alimentation semble à peu près du même ordre en France, en Allemagne et en Belgique} il est un peu plus élevé en Italie et très supérieur en Suisse et en Suède, un peu plus bas, au contraire, au Royaume- Uni, et très inférieur aux Pays-Bas.

Si les loyers sont moins chers en France, le chauffage, l'éclairage et l'équipement ménager font en général ressortir des niveaux de prix plus hauts que ceux des pays étrangers ; il en est de même, dans une moindre mesure cependant, pour l'habillement.

De quelques essais tentés pour mesurer le pouvoir d'achat comparé des consommateurs, il paraît ressortir que celui-ci est à peu près égal en France et en Allemagne. Dans les pays Scandinaves, au Royaume- Uni et en Belgique, le pouvoir d'achat des consommateurs serait supérieur à celui de la France ; il parait au contraire un peu moins élevé aux Pays-Bas et en Autriche, et très inférieur en Italie.
Les intentions d'achats des ménages d'après une enquête réalisée en juin 1960 par l'I.N.S.E.E.
Authors: Coste Hubert
Published: September 2019

Cette enquête est la cinquième d'une série d'enquêtes par sondage effectuées par l'I.N.S.E.E. dans le cadre de ses études de conjoncture. Elle a été effectuée en juin auprès d'un échantillon de 7.000 ménages représentatifs de la population française.

Les principaux résultats portent sur les achats récents et les intentions d'achats d'automobiles et d'appareils électro-ménagers et sur quelques points d'ordre financier.

En ce qui concerne l'automobile, les résultats de cette enquête sont légèrement moins favorables que ceux de l'enquête de février 1960. Les livraisons à l'automne sur le marché intérieur seraient en légère baisse par rapport aux livraisons de l'automne 1959. Au total les immatriculations de voitures neuves au cours de l'année 1960 seraient en hausse de 5,5 % environ par rapport à celles de 1959.

Les intentions d'achat d'appareils électro-ménagers ont peu varié par rapport à l'enquête précédente t les achats du deuxième semestre 1960 devraient être en hausse sur ceux du deuxième semestre 1959 ; l'attitude des consommateurs est en effet plus favorable à l'achat que l'an dernier.

La partie financière de l'enquête confirme l'amélioration de la confiance à l'égard du franc constatée lors des deux précédentes enquêtes. La situation financière des ménages apparaît en léger progrès, et les ménages continuent à prévoir une amélioration prochaine de cette situation.
Le revenu de l'agriculture en France pour la campagne 1959-1960
Authors: Démeret P.
Published: September 2019

Augmentation des recettes due à l'accroissement de certaines productions (blé, viande, produits de basse-cour) et à la hausse des prix à la production. Légère augmentation des dépenses (progression de la consommation des engrais, diminution des achats de matériel). Accroissement du pouvoir d'achat global de l'agriculture par rapport à la campagne 1958-1959.
L'évolution économique de la Sarre jusqu'à son rattachement à la République fédérale
Authors: Remlinger Michel
Published: September 2019

Cette étude traite de l'économie de la Sarre pendant son rattachement à la France. Son but essentiel est de rassembler les statistiques disponibles en matière de population, production, commerce, finances et revenus.

Dans un article ultérieur, il sera question des enseignements que l'on peut tirer, d'ores et déjà, du retour de la Sarre à l'Allemagne et de son effet sur les rapports commerciaux entre la France, l'Allemagne et la Sarre qui continue à offrir des possibilités exceptionnelles de commerce pour notre pays.
La situation et les perspectives dans l'industrie en novembre 1960, d'après les chefs d'entreprise
Authors: Gervaiseau Pierre
Published: September 2019

II ressort des réponses des chefs d'entreprise consultés en novembre par l'I.N.S.E.E. que la production industrielle a poursuivi sa progression au cours des mois précédant l'enquête et qu'elle devrait continuer à augmenter durant les mois d'hiver. La demande dans l'ensemble était modérément croissante. Dans les industries de production de biens de consommation elle s'était améliorée. La demande en provenance de l'étranger a baissé durant les mois précédant l'enquête par suite du ralentissement des achats étrangers d'automobiles et d'acier. Les stocks de produits fabriqués ont eu plutôt tendance à baisser sauf dans l'automobile. Le carnet de commandes des industries productrices de biens d'équipement poursuivait sa progression. Les entreprises étaient en mesure de produire davantage sans avoir besoin de faire appel à un personnel supplémentaire, aucun goulot sérieux n'interdisant un développement modéré de la production. On a constaté une certaine augmentation des effectifs, les horaires restant stables. Pour l'hiver, les industriels prévoyaient dans l'ensemble une légère augmentation des effectifs. Les programmes d'investissements pour 1961 n'étaient pas encore connus de façon précise au moment de l'enquête ; la tendance était en général à l'accroissement par rapport à l'année 1960 notamment dans la production des métaux, dans les industries mécaniques et électriques et la chimie.

Les prix des produits industriels ne devraient augmenter que d'une façon très modérée durant l'hiver. Les taux de salaires au cours des mois précédant l'enquête avaient augmenté assez généralement ; le rythme d'augmentation devrait être du même ordre que celui constaté durant l'année 1960.
Les fluctuations du prix du lait à la production
Authors: Vernier Alphonse
Published: September 2019

On a cherché, dans cette étude, en interrogeant les agriculteurs, à déterminer dans quelle mesure le prix du lait fixé par décision du gouvernement était respecté. Si de nombreux agriculteurs sont mieux payés en réalité qu'ils ne le seraient par la stricte application des textes, 30% à 45 % d'entr'eux sont cependant payés sensiblement au-dessous du prix fixé ; il semble par ailleurs que les prix pratiqués et les prix observés aient suivi, au cours des années récentes, une évolution sensiblement parallèle.