bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining and Understanding the Development of Juvenile Delinquency from an Environmental, Sociological, and Theoretical Perspective
Authors: Barone Peter Arthur
Published: November 2016

This chapter purports that there are sociological environments, interactions and theoretical reasons as to why some juveniles, as they develop and mature in life, transform from being law abiding juveniles into law breaking juvenile delinquents. Information is presented in this chapter regarding the various environments juveniles live through and what they experience from the people functioning within these environments. There is an examination of how the people, who are models working and living in these environments, influence and shape the behavior of the juveniles. Various theories are presented and discussed as well as the relevance of their value in explaining how observation, processing of information, learning of observed behavior and then replication of behavior with positive reinforcement all contribute to the transformation of a juvenile into a juvenile delinquent.
Migrants and Effective Legal Representation in Criminal Cases via Legal Aid Systems
Authors: Sorvatzioti Demetra F.
Published: November 2016

The European countries are obliged to fulfill the provisions of the European Convention on human rights regarding the protection of the accused rights' and ensuring the principle of fair trial. Nowadays, because of the economic crisis more people are affected by poverty and many immigrants enter Europe. Poor and immigrants who break the law cannot afford to pay for the services of a lawyer and for the most of them the states provide legal aid assistance. This chapter indicates that in order to safeguard the accused rights' it is mandatory for the legal aid lawyer to defend the accused effectively, otherwise the protection is just formal and does not fulfill the substantive conventional obligation of the State for fair trial. It is proposed for the States to establish qualitative criteria for the legal aid lawyers. The voluntary character of the legal aid scheme imposes an imperative duty for the lawyers to ensure fair trial for the poor.
The Mass Incarceration of Undocumented Latinos/as in the Prison-Immigration Industrial Complex
Authors: Velasquez Roberto Jose
Published: November 2016

In this chapter, the authors discuss the current mass incarceration of Latinos/as in the United States. While Latinos/as have always been overrepresented in the criminal justice system, especially in relation to their population size, the number of Latinos/as, especially those who are undocumented, is now increasing at epidemic proportions in prison. Paralleling the Black experience about mass incarceration, which has its historical roots in slavery, the authors discuss impact of mass incarceration on the Latino/a community, and how mass incarceration places the Latino/a population at-risk for destruction of its community, most notably the family. The authors, who are primarily mental health professionals, share their concerns about how mass incarceration is tearing at the foundation of this community as it has in the African American community and is likely to have negative long-term, and perhaps permanent, effects that are yet to be known. While it is beyond of the scope of the chapter to discuss the specific assessment and treatment of Latino/a persons affected by mass incarceration, the authors do focus on problems that are arising in this community as a result of persons, especially parents, being incarceration because of undocumented status in the United States.
A Model for an Adaptive Hypermedia Learning System Based on Data Mining Technique
Authors: Lamia Mahnane , Hafidi Mohamed
Published: November 2016

Since the learning style of each learner is different. Adaptive hypermedia learning system (AHLS) must fit different learner's needs. A number of AHLS have been developed to support learning styles as a source for adaptation. However, these systems suffer from several problems, namely: less attention was paid to the relationship between learning styles and learning performance. This paper proposes an AHLS model based on learning styles and learning performance. On one hand, the developed prototype will assist a learner in accessing and using learning resources which are adapted according to his/her personal characteristics (in this case his/her learning style and level of knowledge). On the other hand, it will facilitate the learning content teacher in the creation of appropriate learning objects and their application to suitable pedagogical strategies.
E-Learning 2.0
Authors: Yuen Steve Chi-Yin , Yaoyuneyong Gallayanee
Published: November 2016

This paper presents a case study involving the design, development, and teaching of two online courses based on e-learning 2.0 concepts and use of social web tools and technologies. Guided by the connectivism theory of learning, the courses were designed to integrate e-learning through social media. Blogs, podcasts, social networking, social bookmarking, and Wikis were utilized as fundamental course components. Participants included students in two graduate-level online courses in instructional technology. Details of the design and construction of each course are examined, as well as impacts on students' learning experiences. Students' perceptions of social media as a tool to facilitate classroom community are discussed, as well as their feelings of connectedness and learning, and their opinions regarding teacher-student and student-student classroom interactions. Results show that students' experiences were very positive and that an e-learning 2.0 approach in online courses can enhance learner-to-instructor and learner-to-learner interaction, and increase students' perception of classroom community.
The Road to Intercultural Development and Internationalization
Authors: Jung Erica Jin
Published: November 2016

The post-secondary educational landscape is slowly becoming a backdrop for an increasing number of examples of efforts being made to establish intercultural development and internationalization at the university and college levels. Universities and colleges are responding to the increase in international student recruitment and to technological advancement both of which promote collaboration in research, teaching, and studying across borders. The growing demographic diversity has resulted in changes to how and what internationalization looks like in our post-secondary institutions and in higher education in general. This chapter explores four areas that are key to the process: buy-in from the Administration, support in the curricular arena, recognition for intercultural work of faculty members, and a more centralized mechanism and structure to help advance the internationalization agenda. Despite the progress made in Canada, these areas are still continuing to gain traction in higher education in other countries.
Internationalization and Intercultural Learning
Authors: Garson Kyra Dawne
Published: November 2016

This chapter presents the findings of a mixed-method study that sought to measure upper level students' intercultural development and their perceptions of intercultural learning in academic settings. Quantitative data was provided by participants (n=178) completing the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) and was analyzed to determine which demographic variables influenced IDI scores. Focus groups provided qualitative data to understand students' experiences learning in multicultural, academic environments. The results show significant overestimation of intercultural competence in the sample, which taken together with the student voice, provide a snapshot of intercultural learning and development across the disciplines. The findings clearly indicate a need for intentional pedagogy and curricular revision in order to prepare graduates as professionals and citizens in increasingly multicultural and globalized contexts.
Integrating Intercultural Competencies into the Professional Skills Curriculum
Authors: Taraban-Gordon Svitlana , Page Easton
Published: November 2016

Intercultural competence is increasingly seen by employers as a desirable graduate capability needed in today's diverse and intercultural workplace. This chapter reports on a curriculum intervention - a 20-hour online intercultural skills course - aimed at introducing a large number of undergraduate students enrolled in a co-operative education program to fundamental intercultural concepts and ideas. The chapter seeks to contribute to the literature on intercultural skill development by discussing the course model and its implementation, student perceptions of their level of intercultural competence prior to and after the course, and the challenges involved in the delivery of the course. The main purpose of the chapter is to discuss how courses and programs that aim to develop professional skills may offer a promising vehicle for fostering students' intercultural competence, particularly when these courses utilize online learning tools to enable greater access to intercultural learning.
Gender Divides in Higher Education
Authors: López Joaquín Santiago
Published: November 2016

Cultures differ in nature and intensity of differentiation between the sexes, gender, gender roles, gender-role ideologies and gender stereotypes, but gender differentiation exists universally. This chapter explores the awareness students of building-related degrees from different cultural backgrounds have gained about their capabilities as future professionals. More particularly, the chapter will analyze the acquisition and development of competencies that go beyond the technical skills demanded by most companies in the building industries (i.e. project management, safety control or computer-aided design). These additional skills seem to resonate with male-oriented meanings, especially for on-site jobs, although it appears that traditional gender associations have been dislodged in many contexts. To that end, a survey including competency choices was completed by a population of 100 students from different countries. Results from the study seem to point out that gender gaps have been bridged in many cases. When differences are observed, they do not account for the bulk of data, and are distributed randomly. This finding runs contrary to prior expectations about stereotyping in career choice and awareness of self-capacities.
The Common European Framework of Reference for Languages, the Intercultural Development Index, and Intercultural Communication Competence
Authors: Ragoonaden Karen
Published: November 2016

Given the inherent pluralism of Canadian society, the emphasis on intercultural communication competence (ICC) is a logical extension of second language education in the 21st century. This chapter explores the import of implementing the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) in Teacher Education. To support the development of ICC, the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI), a validated tool, was used to assess the intercultural communication competence of second language preservice teachers in Canada. The purpose of this discussion is to examine if teaching and learning about the CEFR in a Curriculum and Instruction course in the area of French as a second language can provide the necessary parameters to promote intercultural communication competence (ICC) of preservice language teachers. In order to assess ICC of preservice teachers, the Intercultural Development Index was administered during the Fall semester of a one year, Post-Baccalaureate Teacher Education Certification Program.
Collective Green Creativity and Eco-Innovation as Key Drivers of Sustainable Business Solutions in Organizations
Authors: Fields Ziska , Atiku Sulaiman Olusegun
Published: November 2016

The main objective of this chapter was to explore if collective green creativity and eco-innovation can create novel and sustainable business and management practices. A literature review approach was conducted on the link between collective creativity, innovation, and sustainable business practices. It was found that collective green creativity and eco-innovation can create sustainable business practices. The process starts with the creative individual which needs creative thinking skills, creative motivation, green mindfulness and green self-efficacy. A creative collective is then created using their creative intelligence and creative exchange to create a shared green vision. The creative collective requires green transformational leadership with access to green dynamic capabilities and resources to be effective in the business environment. This creative collective follows the six-step creative problem-solving process which enables the collective to create eco-innovation using an additional four steps. The end result is novel and sustainable business practices and solutions.
Empowerment of Communities to Address Impossible Problems
Authors: Shambaugh Neal
Published: November 2016

The traditional view of problem solving is that experts are best addressed to solve complex but narrow problems. Intelligent novices, who have broad backgrounds and the motivation to learn and propose unique solutions, is an untapped source of experience. People increasingly want to take ownership of their lives and address problems that range from the routine (e.g., financial planning, healthcare, education) to the catastrophic (e.g., natural disasters, pandemics, terrorism). Features of human societies and traits of problem solving in humans are discussed. Examples of international problem solving are provided. The chapter describes three approaches to community problem solving, including problem solving groups, community decision support systems, and portals.
Using Successful Cases to Promote Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Beachcroft-Shaw Harry , Ellis Debbie
Published: November 2016

The success of encouraging environmental sustainability by means of social marketing programs is partially determined by identifying certain actions that can favourably influence people's behaviours towards a more ecologically benign lifestyle. In this chapter, such actions (remodelling businesses and the economy by means of non-market capitals, social enterprises, and economic democracy; transforming food systems; renewable energy and energy reductions and simplifying lifestyles) are gleaned from a description of Cuba's transition period, the Findhorn Ecovillage and the BedZED development where greater levels of environmental sustainability have been attained. Associating the actions to social marketing theory reveals that they are well positioned to influence behaviours towards improved levels of environmental sustainability.
Evaluation of the Thermal Shock Fatigue Resistance of Cutting Tools Using a CO2 Pulse Laser Beam
Authors: Yamaguchi Kenji , Matsumoto Itaru , Fujita Tsuyoshi , Kondo Yasuo , Sakamoto Satoshi , Yamaguchi Mitsugu
Published: November 2016

It is well-known that a series of cracks sometimes gets initiated perpendicular to the cutting edges on the rake faces of brittle cutting tools made of materials such as cemented carbide, ceramics, and cermet under high-speed intermittent cutting. The tools used in intermittent cutting processes are exposed to elevated temperatures during cutting and then cool quickly during the noncutting time. Previous studies have suggested that such repeated thermal shocks generate thermal stress in the tool and that the thermal cracks are then propagated by thermal fatigue. Recently, high-speed machining techniques have attracted the attention of researchers. To apply new cutting tool materials to this machining process, it is important to evaluate their thermal shock fatigue resistances. During high-speed intermittent cutting, the frequency of thermal shocks becomes high and the action area of the thermal shocks is limited to the rake face of the tool. Therefore, conventional thermal shock resistance evaluation methods are unsuitable for this case. Consequently, the authors have developed a new experimental evaluation method using a CO2 laser beam. In this study, we irradiated cemented carbide and TiN cermet cutting tools with the CO2 pulse laser beam and gauged the effectiveness of the proposed thermal shock fatigue resistance evaluation method. The results show a correlation between the thermal shock due to the CO2 pulse laser beam and those due to the intermittent cutting experiments.
Dissimilar Materials Laser Welding between Stainless Steel 304 and Thermoplastics
Authors: Borrisutthekul Rattana , Saengsai Anchalee , Mitsomwang Pusit
Published: November 2016

Nowadays, dissimilar materials welding, especially between metal to plastics, has been become the hottest issue. The objective of the study is to investigate the effects of physical properties of plastics on the weldability and the quality of the dissimilar materials welding between SUS304 stainless steel and plastics. In experiment, the lap joint configuration with SUS304 put on the top was applied. The welding speed, focal position, and keeping period of weld after welding were varied. The results indicated that the decomposition temperature of plastics affected both weldability and quality of joint after welding. Moreover, crazing was a prominent property to be considered for long-term use of the dissimilar materials welding as the specimen could fracture by itself after a period of time without any application of the external load.
Fractal Study for Micro-Crack of Mud-Shale
Authors: Wang Ping , Qu Zhan , Cui Ying
Published: November 2016

The structure, distribution and evolution of micro-crack within the mud-shale are studied in this paper. The micro-fracture behavior of mud-shale has fractal characteristics. Fractal method is used to quantitative description of the damage evolution behavior of the mud-shale. The study shows that the variation of the fractal dimension in the domain of the bearing surface can reflect the internal damage evolution trend of the mud-shale. The fractal dimension has a nonlinear relationship with the applied stress.
Current and Future of Dry Centrifugal Granulation Process
Authors: Yu Peng Fei , Wang Shu Zhong
Published: November 2016

At present, water-quenching process takes the leading role in steel industry. Apparently, this method not only consumes lots of water, but also has little waste heat recovered, as well as the atmosphere polluted on account of releasing H2S etc. Dry centrifugal granulation ( DCG ) process, as an environmentally friendly method with high-efficiency heat recovery, draws more attentions in recent years,which is the optimum process, with smaller slag particle size (about 2mm), more glassy phase and higher recovery rate. After a thorough comparative analysis of the various research, the problem presented in this mothed is of vital importance for commercialization.
Mapping alien and indigenous vegetation in the KwaZulu-Natal Sandstone Sourveld using remotely sensed data
Authors: Odindi John , Mutanga Onisimo , Rouget Mathieu , Hlanguza Nomcebo
Published: November 2016

Background: The indigenous KwaZulu-Natal Sandstone Sourveld (KZN SS) grassland is highly endemic and species-rich, yet critically endangered and poorly conserved. Ecological threats to this grassland ecosystem are exacerbated by encroachment of woody plants, with severe negative environmental and economic consequences. Hence, there is an increasing need to reliably determine the extent of encroached or invaded areas to design optimal mitigation measures. Because of inherent limitations that characterise traditional approaches like field surveys and aerial photography, adoption of remotely sensed data offer reliable and timely mapping of landscape processes.Objectives: We sought to map the distribution of woody vegetation within the KZN SS using remote sensing approaches.Method: New generation RapidEye imagery, characterised by strategically positioned bands, and the advanced machine learning algorithm Random Forest (RF) were used to determine the distribution and composition of alien and indigenous woody vegetation within the KZN SS.Results: Results show that alien and indigenous encroachment and invasion could be mapped with over 86% accuracy whilst the dominant indigenous and alien tree species could be mapped with over 74% accuracy. These results highlight the potential of new generation RapidEye satellite data in combination with advanced machine learning technique in predicting the distribution of alien and indigenous woody cover within a grassland ecosystem. The successful discrimination of the two classes and the species within the classes can be attributed to the additional strategically positioned bands, particularly the red-edge in the new generation RapidEye image.Conclusion: Results underscore the potential of new generation RapidEye satellite data with strategically positioned bands and an advanced machine learning algorithm in predicting the distribution of woody cover in a grassland ecosystem.
Christian love in inter-religious perspectives
Authors: Kruger Kobus
Published: November 2016

The article approaches the phenomenon of love from a theoretical perspective in which the interconnectedness of religions is constitutive of every religion, including Christianity, in its relative singularity. It explores a historical context in which Christianity with its unique message of love does not stand alone among the religions of the world, and a theoretical context that could account for that historical context, without abandoning or diluting the Christian vision, but enriching it, adding depth to the notion ‘Christianity’ in its most essential sense. The argument is developed by first introducing seven religious perspectives on love. This is followed by metaphysical-mystical reflections in which the concept ‘Infinitude’ features. The argument proceeds concentrically outwards, starting from Christianity as centre, seen as one magnificent dewdrop reflecting an infinite net of interdependence.
Exploring the impact of economic and sociopolitical development on people’s health and well-being: A case study of the Karanga people in Masvingo, Zimbabwe
Authors: Chirongoma Sophia
Published: November 2016

Through an exploration of the collapse of the Zimbabwean health delivery systems during the period 2000–2010, this article examines the Karanga people’s indigenous responses to utano (health and well-being). The first section explores the impact of Zimbabwe’s economic and sociopolitical development on people’s health and well-being. The next section foregrounds the ‘agency’ of the Karanga community in accessing and facilitating health care, especially their utilisation of multiple healthcare providers as well as providing health care through indigenous remedies such as traditional medicine and faith-healing. In line with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3 which aspires to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages, the concluding section offers insights for developing an indigenous Karanga theology of utano utilising communal resources and illustrating that the concept of ‘development’ should not be confined to rigid Western development perspectives.
Eradication ofHelicobacter pyloriInfection Restores ki67, p53, and Cyclin D1 Immunoreactivity in the Human Gastric Epithelium
Authors: Triantafyllou Konstantinos , Papadopoulos Vasilios , Emanouil Theodoras , Gkolfakis Paraskevas , Damaskou Vasileia , Tziatzios Georgios , Panayiotides Ioannis G. , Vafiadis Irene , Ladas Spiros D.
Published: November 2016

Introduction

We evaluated the effect of Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication on p53, cyclin D1 expression, and cell proliferation in gastric mucosa.

Materials and Methods

We assessed p53, cyclin D1, and ki67 immunoexpression in gastric mucosa from 31 HP chronic gastritis patients and 12 controls. Reassessment was performed 6 months after successful HP eradication.

Results

Successful eradication resulted in significant decrease of p53 (1.53 ± 0.16 vs 0.83 ± 0.19, P = 0.01) and ki67 (9.84 ± 0.96 vs 4.77 ± 0.27, P < 0.001) staining in the antrum. Similarly, p53 immunoreactivity significantly decreased in the corpus (1.27 ± 0.20 vs 0.46 ± 0.15, P = 0.02), while there was a trend for decreased corpus cyclin D1 and ki67 expression (0.17 ± 0.07 vs 0.0, P = 0.08 and 8.71 ± 1.24 vs 5.85 ± 0.54, P = 0.09, respectively). Importantly, after successful HP eradication, the immunoreactivity of the studied parameters was similar to that of controls.

Conclusion

Successful HP infection eradication restores p53, cyclin D1, and ki67 immunoreactivity in the gastric mucosa to the level of controls.
A New Quasi-Monte Carlo Technique Based on Nonnegative Least Squares and Approximate Fekete Points
Authors: Bittante Claudia , De Marchi Stefano , Elefante Giacomo
Published: November 2016

The computation of integrals in higher dimensions and on general domains, when no explicit cubature rules are known, can be ”easily” addressed by means of the quasi-Monte Carlo method. The method, simple in its formulation, becomes computationally inefficient when the space dimension is growing and the integration domain is particularly complex. In this paper we present two new approaches to the quasi-Monte Carlo method for cubature based onnonnegative least squaresandapproximate Fekete points. The main idea is to use less points and especiallygood pointsfor solving the system of the moments.Good pointsare here intended as points with good interpolation properties, due to the strict connection between interpolation and cubature. Numerical experiments show that, in average, just a tenth of the points should be used mantaining the same approximation order of the quasi-Monte Carlo method. The method has been satisfactory applied to 2 and 3-dimensional problems on quite complex domains.
Adaptive Mixed GMsFEM for Flows in Heterogeneous Media
Authors: Chan Ho Yuen , Chung Eric , Efendiev Yalchin
Published: November 2016

In this paper, we present two adaptive methods for the basis enrichment of the mixed Generalized Multiscale Finite Element Method (GMsFEM) for solving the flow problem in heterogeneous media. We develop an a-posteriori error indicator which depends on the norm of a local residual operator. Based on this indicator, we construct an offline adaptive method to increase the number of basis functions locally in coarse regions with large local residuals. We also develop an online adaptive method which iteratively enriches the function space by adding new functions computed based on the residual of the previous solution and special minimum energy snapshots. We show theoretically and numerically the convergence of the two methods. The online method is, in general, better than the offline method as the online method is able to capture distant effects (at a cost of online computations), and both methods have faster convergence than a uniform enrichment. Analysis shows that the online method should start with a certain number of initial basis functions in order to have the best performance. The numerical results confirm this and show further that with correct selection of initial basis functions, the convergence of the online method can be independent of the contrast of the medium. We consider cases with both very high and very low conducting inclusions and channels in our numerical experiments.
Guest Editorial: Reinvigorating Project Management Research and Practice: Perspectives from the Non-Profit Sector
Authors: Lannon John , Walsh John
Published: November 2016

The genesis of this Special Issue was a conference on “Delivering Social Good: Managing Projects in the Non-Profit Sector” held at the University of Limerick in October 2014.  The diversity that exists within the broad non-profit sector became apparent at this event, as did its increasing projectification and the variety of organizational forms and models resulting from this trend. Tools, techniques, processes and practices inherited from the business world were described, as were methodologies adopted, adapted and specifically designed for work in areas like international development, humanitarian work and community settings. Insights into the lived experiences of project managers in the non-profit sector were also shared, as were a number of diverse conceptualisations of temporary organisations.
High-resolution airborne imaging DOAS-measurements of NO2
above Bucharest during AROMAT
Authors: Meier Andreas Carlos , Schönhardt Anja , Bösch Tim , Richter Andreas , Seyler André , Ruhtz Thomas , Constantin Daniel-Eduard , Shaiganfar Reza , Wagner Thomas , Merlaud Alexis , Van Roozendael Michel , Belegante Livio , Nicolae Doina , Georgescu Lucian , Burrows John Philip
Published: November 2016

Abstract. In this study we report on airborne imaging DOAS measurements of NO2 from two flights performed in Bucharest during the AROMAT campaign (Airborne ROmanian Meeasurements of Aerosols an Trace gases) in September 2014. These measurements were performed with the Airborne imaging Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) instrument for Measurements of Atmospheric Pollution (AirMAP) and provide nearly gapless maps of column densities of NO2 below the aircraft with a high spatial resolution of better than 100 m. The airmass factors, which are needed to convert the measured differential Slant Column Densities (dSCDs) to Vertical Column Densities (VCDs) have a strong dependence on the surface reflectance, which has to be accounted for in the retrieval. This is especially important for measurements above urban areas, where the surface properties vary strongly. As the instrument is not radiometrically calibrated, we have developed a method to derive the surface reflectance from measured intensities at the aircraft. This method is based on radiative transfer calculation with SCIATRAN and a reference area for which the surface reflectance is known. While surface properties are clearly seen in the NO2 dSCD results, this effect is successfully corrected for in the VCD results. Furthermore we investigate the influence of aerosols on the retrieval for a variety of aerosol profiles that were measured in the context of the AROMAT campaigns. The results of two research flights are presented which reveal distinct horizontal distribution patterns and strong spatial gradients of NO2 across the city. Pollution levels range from background values in the outskirts located upwind of the city to about 4 × 1016 molec cm−2 in the polluted city center. Validation against two co-located mobile car-DOAS measurements yields good agreement between the datasets with correlation cofficients of R = 0.94 and R = 0.85, respectively. Estimations on the NOx emission rate of Bucharest for the two flights yield emission rates of 15.1 ± 9.4 mol s−1 and 13.6 ± 8.4 mol s−1, respectively.
Assessing uncertainties in global cropland futures using a conditional probabilistic modelling framework
Authors: Engström Kerstin , Olin Stefan , Rounsevell Mark D. A. , Brogaard Sara , van Vuuren Detlef P. , Alexander Peter , Murray-Rust Dave , Arneth Almut
Published: November 2016

Abstract. We present a modelling framework to simulate probabilistic futures of global cropland areas that are conditional on the SSP (shared socio-economic pathway) scenarios. Simulations are based on the Parsimonious Land Use Model (PLUM) linked with the global dynamic vegetation model LPJ-GUESS (Lund–Potsdam–Jena General Ecosystem Simulator) using socio-economic data from the SSPs and climate data from the RCPs (representative concentration pathways). The simulated range of global cropland is 893–2380 Mha in 2100 (± 1 standard deviation), with the main uncertainties arising from differences in the socio-economic conditions prescribed by the SSP scenarios and the assumptions that underpin the translation of qualitative SSP storylines into quantitative model input parameters. Uncertainties in the assumptions for population growth, technological change and cropland degradation were found to be the most important for global cropland, while uncertainty in food consumption had less influence on the results. The uncertainties arising from climate variability and the differences between climate change scenarios do not strongly affect the range of global cropland futures. Some overlap occurred across all of the conditional probabilistic futures, except for those based on SSP3. We conclude that completely different socio-economic and climate change futures, although sharing low to medium population development, can result in very similar cropland areas on the aggregated global scale.
ENSO–cave drip water hydrochemical relationship: a 7-year dataset from south-eastern Australia
Authors: Tadros Carol V. , Treble Pauline C. , Baker Andy , Fairchild Ian , Hankin Stuart , Roach Regina , Markowska Monika , McDonald Janece
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Speleothems (cave deposits), used for palaeoenvironmental reconstructions, are deposited from cave drip water. Differentiating climate and karst processes within a drip-water signal is fundamental for the correct identification of palaeoenvironmental proxies and ultimately their interpretation within speleothem records. We investigate the potential use of trace element and stable oxygen-isotope (δ18O) variations in cave drip water as palaeorainfall proxies in an Australian alpine karst site. This paper presents the first extensive hydrochemical and δ18O dataset from Harrie Wood Cave, in the Snowy Mountains, south-eastern (SE) Australia. Using a 7-year long rainfall δ18O and drip-water Ca, Cl, Mg / Ca, Sr / Ca and δ18O datasets from three drip sites, we determined that the processes of mixing, dilution, flow path change, carbonate mineral dissolution and prior calcite precipitation (PCP) accounted for the observed variations in the drip-water geochemical composition. We identify that the three monitored drip sites are fed by fracture flow from a well-mixed epikarst storage reservoir, supplied by variable concentrations of dissolved ions from soil and bedrock dissolution. We constrained the influence of multiple processes and controls on drip-water composition in a region dominated by El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). During the El Niño and dry periods, enhanced PCP, a flow path change and dissolution due to increased soil CO2 production occurred in response to warmer than average temperatures in contrast to the La Niña phase, where dilution dominated and reduced PCP were observed. We present a conceptual model, illustrating the key processes impacting the drip-water chemistry. We identified a robust relationship between ENSO and drip-water trace element concentrations and propose that variations in speleothem Mg / Ca and Sr / Ca ratios may be interpreted to reflect palaeorainfall conditions. These findings inform palaeorainfall reconstruction from speleothems regionally and provide a basis for palaeoclimate studies globally, in regions where there is intermittent recharge variability.
Development of a solar concentrator with tracking system
Authors: Barbosa Flávia V. , Afonso João L. , Rodrigues Filipe B. , Teixeira José C. F.
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Solar Energy has been, since the beginning of human civilization, a source of energy that raised considerable interest, and the technology used for their exploitation has developed constantly. Due to the energetic problems which society has been facing, the development of technologies to increase the efficiency of solar systems is of paramount importance. The solar concentration is a technology that has been used for many years by the scientist, because this system enables the concentration of solar energy in a focus, which allows a significant increase in energy intensity. The receiver, placed at the focus of the concentrator, can use the stored energy to produce electrical energy through Stirling engine, for example, or to produce thermal energy by heating a fluid that can be used in a thermal cycle. The efficiency of solar concentrators can be improved with the addition of a dual axis solar tracker system which allows a significant increase in the amount of stored energy. In response to the aforementioned, this paper presents the design and construction of a solar dish concentrator with tracking system at low cost, the optical and thermal modelling of this system and a performance analysis through experimental tests. The experimental validation allows to conclude that the application of a tracking system to the concentrator is very important since a minimum delay of the solar radiation leads to important losses of system efficiency. On the other hand, it is found that the external factors can affect the final results which include the optical and geometrical properties of the collector, the absorptivity and the position of the receiver as well as the weather conditions (essentially the wind speed and clouds). Thus, the paper aims to present the benefits of this technology in a world whose the consumption of energy by fossil fuels is a real problem that society needs to face.
Spatial and temporal analysis of fatal off-piste and backcountry avalanche accidents in Austria with a comparison of results in Switzerland, France, Italy and the United States
Authors: Pfeifer Christian , Höller Peter , Zeileis Achim
Published: November 2016

Abstract. In this article we analyzed spatial and temporal patterns of fatal Austrian avalanche accidents caused by backcountry and off-piste skiers and snowboarders within the winter periods 1967/68–2010/11. The data were based on reports of the Austrian Board for Alpine Safety and reports of the information services of the federal states. Using the date and the location of the recorded avalanche accidents we were able to carry out spatial and temporal analyses applying generalized additive models and Markov random field models. As the result of the trend analysis we noticed an increasing trend of avalanche fatalities within the winter periods from 1967/68 to 2010/11, which is in contradiction to the widespread opinion that the number of fatalities is constant over time. Additionally, we compared Austrian results with results of Switzerland, France, Italy and the United States based on data from the International Commission of Alpine Rescue (ICAR). As the result of the spatial analysis we noticed two hotspots of avalanche fatalities ("Arlberg-Silvretta" and "Sölden"). Because of the increasing trend and the rather "narrow" regional distribution of the fatalities consequences on prevention of avalanche accidents were highly recommended.
Surface mass balance and water stable isotopes derived from firn cores on three ice rises, Fimbul Ice Shelf, Antarctica
Authors: Vega Carmen P. , Schlosser Elisabeth , Divine Dmitry V. , Kohler Jack , Martma Tõnu , Eichler Anja , Schwikowski Margit , Isaksson Elisabeth
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Three shallow firn cores were retrieved in the austral summers of 2011/12 and 2013/14 on the ice rises Kupol Ciolkovskogo (KC), Kupol Moskovskij (KM), and Blåskimen Island (BI), all part of Fimbul Ice Shelf (FIS) in western Dronning Maud Land (DML), Antarctica. The cores were dated back to 1958 (KC), 1995 (KM), and 1996 (BI) by annual layer counting using high-resolution oxygen isotope (δ18O) data, and by identifying volcanic horizons using non-sea-salt sulfate (nssSO42−) data. The water stable isotope records show that the atmospheric signature of the annual snow accumulation cycle is well preserved in the firn column, especially at KM and BI. We are able to determine the annual surface mass balance (SMB), as well as the mean SMB values between identified volcanic horizons. Average SMB at the KM and BI sites (0.68 and 0.70 mw. e. yr−1) was higher than at the KC site (0.24 mw. e. yr−1), and there was greater temporal variability as well. Trends in the SMB and δ18O records from the KC core over the period of 1958–2012 agree well with other previously investigated cores in the area, thus the KC site could be considered the most representative of the climate of the region. Cores from KM and BI appear to be more affected by local meteorological conditions and surface topography. Our results suggest that the ice rises are suitable sites for the retrieval of longer firn and ice cores, but that BI has the best preserved seasonal cycles of the three records and is thus the most optimal site for high-resolution studies of temporal variability of the climate signal. Deuterium excess data suggest a possible effect of seasonal moisture transport changes on the annual isotopic signal. In agreement with previous studies, large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns most likely provide the dominant influence on water stable isotope ratios preserved at the core sites.
Epidemiology of cleft lip with or without cleft palate in Thais
Authors: Ittiwut Rungnapa , Siriwan Pichit , Suphapeetiporn Kanya , Shotelersuk Vorasuk
Published: November 2016

Background

Oral clefts, including cleft lip (CL), CL with cleft palate (CL/CP), and cleft palate only (CPO), are among the most common birth defects, and if left untreated can cause significant morbidity. Causes are complex and involve both genetic and environmental factors. Several studies have demonstrated the highest prevalence of oral clefts being in Asian, white, and African populations. However, there have been very few epidemiological studies of oral clefts in Thais.

Objectives

To describe the epidemiology and factors associated with oral clefts in Thais.

Methods

This retrospective case-control observational study included individuals from numerous regions in Thailand. We reviewed data regarding 784 patients with an oral cleft collected in questionnaires as part of the Thai nationwide Smart Smile and Speech Project from 2006 to 2014. Data regarding patients with oral clefts were analyzed, and compared with data regarding 187 unaffected controls.

Results

Of 784 cases, CL/CP accounted for 59.8%, CPO 21.9%, and CL 18.3%. A family history of oral clefts was detected in all 3 types (P < 0.001). Maternal use of any drugs or herbal medicine not prescribed by physicians during pregnancy in cases of CPO (P = 0.049) and maternal consumption of alcohol during pregnancy in cases of CL/CP (P = 0.047) were significantly higher than that by mothers of controls.

Conclusions

CL/CP is the most common type of oral cleft. A family history of oral clefts, and maternal consumption of alcohol or nonprescribed drugs are positively associated with oral clefts in Thais.
Prenatal diagnosis and in utero treatment of severe congenital toxoplasmosis: a case report
Authors: Petpichetchian Chusana , Suntharasaj Thitima , Kor-Anantakul Ounjai
Published: November 2016

Background

Acute infection of pregnant women with Toxoplasma gondii can result in fetal transmission. When clinical abnormalities are evident by ultrasonography in late gestation, medical treatment may be attempted, but the data on outcomes are limited.

Objectives

To present a case of congenital fetal toxoplasmosis from Thailand and review the literature.

Methods

A woman presented at 31 weeks of gestation with severe bilateral ventriculomegaly, cardiomegaly, hepatosplenomegaly with intrahepatic hyperechogenicities, and polyhydramnios. Medical treatment with pyrimethamine, sulfadiazine and folinic acid was initiated. There was no improvement. Social, medical, ethical and legal issues were considered.

Results

Delivery was indicated at 34+2 weeks of gestation because of premature amniorrhexis. The neonate suffered from respiratory distress, meningitis, ventilator-associated pneumonia, and expired at age 11 days.

Conclusions

When fetal congenital toxoplasmosis is diagnosed late in pregnancy with severe ultrasonographic abnormalities, the neonatal outcome is poor despite in utero treatment with antibiotics.
Observer heterogeneity can be thought of as a confounding variable
Authors: Mirhaghi Amir
Published: November 2016

The study published in the April 2016 issue of Asian Biomedicine recruited 2 different sets of observers to perform triage assessments. We know that each observation is subjected to an error. The error has 2 varieties including interobserver variation and intraobserver variation. So effort must be devoted to reduce these errors. The methodology reported may suffer from both intraobserver and interobserver error substantially.
Celebrity Endorsement for Nonprofit Organizations: The Role of Experience-based Fit between Celebrity and Cause
Authors: Park Sun-Young
Published: November 2016

Although using celebrities to raise awareness and funds for social causes is a popular technique these days, little research has offered a theoretical explanation for the effects of a celebrity’s personal values on socially oriented communications. This paper, therefore, aims to investigate the role of celebrity experience with a cause, as well as the celebrity endorser’s association with the not-for-profit organizations, in determining the effectiveness of the celebrity’s endorsement of the cause. Results reveal that a celebrity’s personal experience with the endorsed cause positively influences consumers’ perceived congruence between the celebrity and the cause, attributions of the celebrity altruistic motives for the endorsement, perceptions of the celebrity credibility, and attitudes toward the celebrity and the nonprofit organization. Additionally, a celebrity associated with an organization as a founder compared to a spokesperson appears to yield more favorable perceptions of celebrity credibility and attitudes toward the celebrity and the organization. Finally, interesting interaction effects between the celebrity-cause fit and the celebrity’s association with the nonprofit organization emerged. Findings of the present study provide insights into the potential benefits and liabilities of using a celebrity to promote a social cause in the nonprofit sector.
Implementation of Visuals Arts (Fined and Applied Arts) as Vocational Programmes in Tertiary Institutions: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Anene Ogboji, Bernadine , Chijioke Onuoha, , Christopher Ibenegbu,
Published: November 2016

Over the years, Nigeria and indeed world leaders have been battling to combat the raging poverty and unemployment rates. Although vocational education has been identified as a panacea to these, significant studies reporting obstacles to the implementation of visuals arts as vocational education programs in tertiary institutions have remained grossly insufficient. This is the issues addressed in the study. Survey research design was adopted while 200 purposively selected art education and vocational education respondents from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, provided participated in the study. Among others, that the respondents agreed that the problems facing the implementation of visual art in tertiary institutions as a vocational education program range from poor awareness to lack of parental support. Further studies examine from students’ perceptive, on how best to implement visuals arts as vocational education programs are recommended.
Anthropological Perspective Study on the Muslims in Mysore City-India (Case study Shia Muslims)
Authors: Jafarpour Jalal
Published: November 2016

India, because of including a collection of religions and religious minorities altogether in itself, especially in this modern era, is a remarkable case of study and consideration. This study also, as an anthropological research and in order to get familiar with the religious identity of Muslims and Shias of Mysore in particular, has played its role. This project is a case study about the Shia Muslims in Mysore; it has also a historical look upon formation of cultural identity of Shias in India. During the reign of the Arab traders, they brought Islam into the South Indian state of Karnataka almost as soon as the faith was initiated in Arabia. Along with their faith, Muslims brought many products to the region. The Islamic presence and power in the state reached its greatest heights during the reigns of Hyder Ali and his son Tippu Sultan. Though killed by the British in 1799, Tippu Sultan was one of the only national leaders to defeat the British in battle and is still considered a hero for many Indians. The internal structure of Indian Muslims as a religio-ethnic group was quite complex. Shias Islam has deep-rooted influence in present and history of India from North to South with various Shia Muslim dynasties ruling Indian provinces from time to time.