bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of impurity doping in gapped bilayer graphene
Authors: Han Qi , Yan Baoming , Jia Zhenzhao , Niu Jingjing , Yu Dapeng , Wu Xiaosong
Published: October 2015

Impurity doping plays a pivotal role in semiconductor electronics. We study the doping effect in a two-dimensional semiconductor, gapped bilayer graphene. By employing in situ deposition of calcium on the bilayer graphene, dopants are controllably introduced. Low temperature transport results show a variable range hopping conduction near the charge neutrality point persisting up to 50 K, providing evidence for the impurity levels inside the gap. Our experiment confirms a predicted peculiar effect in the gapped bilayer graphene, i.e., formation of in-gap states even if the bare impurity level lies in the conduction band. The result provides perspective on the effect of doping and impurity levels in semiconducting bilayer graphene.
Optimum design of an off-grid hybrid renewable energy system for an office building
Authors: Ataei Abtin , Nedaei Mojtaba , Rashidi Reza , Yoo Changkyoo
Published: October 2015

Although much attention has been paid to the utilization of hybrid renewable energy systems for either commercial buildings or residential ones, rare studies dealt with the application of off-grid hybrid renewable energy systems for commercial buildings. This paper presents a comprehensive study on the techno-economic performance of a stand-alone hybrid photovoltaic (PV)-wind-battery system for an office building located in Tehran, Iran. The Hybrid Optimization Model for Electric Renewables model was used to investigate the optimal design options and the techno-economic viability of the hybrid renewable energy system installed in that building. The proposed hybrid system based on renewable resources was designed to electrify the restrooms of the building. An optimal system configuration was chosen based on the total net present cost (NPC) and cost of energy (COE). The simulation results demonstrated that the optimum structure for the hybrid system for the primary load demand of 5.6 kW h per day, consists of 3 kW PV modules, 1 kW wind turbine, 1 kW inverter, and sixteen 200 A h batteries. The total NPC of such a system was estimated to be $21 132, while the COE was $1.543 per kW h. In addition, the proposed hybrid energy system could provide 2733 kW h additional electricity to the office building. Furthermore, in the last part of this research, a sensitivity analysis for different parameters such as primary load, wind speed, global solar radiation, interest rate, total NPC, cost of electricity, number of batteries and total electrical production was performed to demonstrate and elaborate the effect of each decision variable on the configuration of the optimum hybrid system. It became clear that two hybrid system configurations, i.e., PV-Wind-Battery and PV-Battery systems, are suggested as the most economical and feasible alternatives and have wide range of usage for different load demand values. Additionally based on the change in the initial design parameters such as wind speed, global solar radiation, load demand, and the real interest rate, a comparison between these two hybrid systems in terms of the total NPC, COE, electrical production, excess electricity, and grid extension distance has been made to investigate the effect of each decision variable on the optimal combination and the techno-economic viability of the hybrid renewable energy system.
Geometrical optimization of microstripe arrays for microbead magnetophoresis
Authors: Henriksen Anders Dahl , Rozlosnik Noemi , Hansen Mikkel Fougt
Published: October 2015

Manipulation of magnetic beads plays an increasingly important role in molecular diagnostics. Magnetophoresis is a promising technique for selective transportation of magnetic beads in lab-on-a-chip systems. We investigate periodic arrays of exchange-biased permalloy microstripes fabricated using a single lithography step. Magnetic beads can be continuously moved across such arrays by combining the spatially periodic magnetic field from microstripes with a rotating external magnetic field. By measuring and modeling the magnetophoresis properties of thirteen different stripe designs, we study the effect of the stripe geometry on the magnetophoretic transport properties of the magnetic microbeads between the stripes. We show that a symmetric geometry with equal width of and spacing between the microstripes facilitates faster transportation and that the optimal period of the periodic stripe array is approximately three times the height of the bead center over the microstripes.
Wind tunnel and numerical performance analysis of multi-storey vertical axis wind turbines
Authors: Malge Abhijeet , Pawar Prashant
Published: October 2015

Vertical Axis Wind Turbines (VAWTs) are becoming popular due to low capital and operating cost. Most of the research on the VAWT is related to power coefficient improvement. Self-starting wind speed performance of the VAWT is another important performance factor which helps in improving overall power performance due to the increase in overall operating period. In this study, an innovative multi-storey turbine model is proposed to improve the self-starting wind speed performance. The self-starting wind speed performances of a three-storey VAWT model is measured in wind tunnel which is further compared with the performances of the one-storey and two-storey turbines. Other performance parameters like maximum torque and power coefficients are also measured in wind tunnel and compared with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulated model results. CFD models of all three turbines are developed using FLUENT Software which uses k–ω Shear Stress Transportation turbulence model. CFD analysis also provides detailed insight about turbine performances, viz., lift coefficients and drag coefficients, velocity distribution, and pressure distribution. This analysis brings out the advantage of three-storey VAWT which gives minimum value of self-starting wind speed of 2 m/s as compared to two-storey and one-storey turbines of 3.3 m/s and 7 m/s, respectively. Further, this study brings out comparison of other performance parameters of three models.
Waveguide splitting and squeezing in zero-index metamaterials embedded with defects
Authors: Ding Erliang , Wang Yangyang , Liu Xiaozhou , Gong Xiufen
Published: October 2015

This paper theoretically investigates the reflective properties of splitting and squeezing devices based on a zero-index metamaterial (ZIM) waveguide embedded with defects. This structure can guarantee no reflections, making it possible to build reflectionless splitters and squeezers. Moreover, the proposed theory has been used to couple input and output waveguides with different cross sections and to achieve an arbitrary angle of exotic transmission. The proposed defect structure can offer potential advances in cloaking, splitting, and squeezing technologies without restricting the object’s shape. Active control of exotic transmission can occur by incorporating tunable parameters into the defects and the ZIM.
Remarkable magnetic enhancement of type-M hexaferrite of barium in polystyrene polymer
Authors: El-Sayed Adly H. , Hemeda O. M. , Tawfik A. , Hamad M. A.
Published: October 2015

We demonstrate that the promising effect of inclusion of single magnetic-domain type-M hexaferrite of barium (BaM) particles in polystyrene (PS) polymer (BaM/PS weight ratio = 2/1). The results show that the coercivity of BaM particles remarkably increases from 714 to 3772 Oe and remanence increases from 2.07 to 5.41 emu.g−1 when they embedded into PS. Moreover, magnetic coercivity and squareness of the BaM-PS are significantly larger, and is comparable with corresponding values of other BaM-polymer composites. Therefore, BaM-PS composite enforce itself as the modern potential materials with tendency of replacing existing composite materials in several applications.
Evidence of quantum correction to conductivity and variable range hopping conduction in nano-crystalline Cu3N thin film
Authors: Sahoo Guruprasad , Jain Mahaveer K.
Published: October 2015

We have investigated the temperature dependent carrier transport properties of nano-crystalline copper nitride thin films synthesized by modified activated reactive evaporation. The films, prepared in a Cu-rich growth condition are found to be highly disordered and the carrier transport in these films is mainly attributed to the impurity band conduction. We have observed that no single conduction mechanism is appropriate to elucidate the carrier transport in the entire temperature range of 20 – 300 K. Therefore, we have employed different conduction mechanisms in different temperature regimes. The carrier transport of the films in the low temperature regime (20 – 150 K) has been interpreted by implementing quantum correction to the conductivity. In the high temperature regime (200 – 300 K), the conduction mechanism has been successfully analyzed on the basis of Mott’s variable range hopping mechanism. Furthermore, it can be predicted that copper ions present at the surface of the crystallites are responsible for the hopping conduction mechanism.
Interpreting patterns of population change in koalas from long-term datasets in Coffs Harbour on the north coast of New South Wales
Authors: Lunney Daniel , Predavec Martin , Miller Indrie , Shannon Ian , Fisher Mark , Moon Chris , Matthews Alison , Turbill John , Rhodes Jonathan R.
Published: October 2015

We examined a long-term, repeat dataset for the koala population within Coffs Harbour Local Government Area. Analyses of these data have led to the conclusion that, following a perceived population decline in the 1980s, the koala population of Coffs Harbour has endured between 1990 and 2011 and showed no evidence of a precipitous decline during this period. Rather, the population change is best characterised as stable to slowly declining. This conclusion appears to contradict a common view of recent koala population declines on the north coast of New South Wales. There are four possible explanations for the population’s apparent stability: that conservation efforts and planning regulations have been effective; that surviving adults are persisting in existing home ranges in remnant habitat; that the broader Coffs Harbour population is operating as a ‘source and sink’ metapopulation; and/or that the standard survey methods employed are not sufficiently sensitive to detect small population changes. These findings do not mean there is no need for future conservation efforts aimed at koalas in Coffs Harbour; however, such efforts will need to better understand and account for a koala population that can be considered to be stable to slowly declining.
Boron deficiency in pasture based on subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum L.) is linked to symbiotic malfunction
Authors: Hamilton Leo J. , Reed Kevin F. M. , Leach Elainne M. A. , Brockwell John
Published: October 2015

Field and glasshouse experiments confirmed the occurrence of boron (B) deficiency in subterranean clover (Trifolium subterraneum L.) pasture in eastern Victoria. Diminished productivity was linked to the small-seededness of clover and the poor effectiveness of clover root-nodule bacteria (rhizobia, Rhizobium leguminosarum bv. trifolii). Productivity, especially of clover and clover seed, increased following applications of up to 6 kg B ha–1 (P < 0.001). The response was delayed, occurring several years after the initial application of B, unless the land was resown with fresh clover seed inoculated with an effective strain of rhizobia. B deficiency in the nodulated legume induced conditions within the plant and or its rhizobia that led to impaired nitrogen (N2) fixation. Glasshouse research indicated that populations of soil-borne rhizobia taken from B-deficient soils were poorly effective in N2 fixation and that rhizobia from soils growing subterranean clover cv. Leura were significantly less effective (P < 0.05) than rhizobia from a soil growing cv. Mt Barker. Additionally, subterranean clover seed generated in B-deficient soils was at least one-third smaller than the seed of commercial seed but responded to inoculation with effective rhizobia. This indicated that any symbiotic malfunction of clover from B-deficient soils was not due to an inability to respond to nitrogen per se. On the other hand, cv. Leura from B-deficient soils fixed significantly less N2 than commercial cv. Leura when each was inoculated with rhizobia from B-deficient soils.
Holocentromeres inRhynchosporaare associated with genome-wide centromere-specific repeat arrays interspersed among euchromatin
Authors: Marques André , Ribeiro Tiago , Neumann Pavel , Macas Jiří , Novák Petr , Schubert Veit , Pellino Marco , Fuchs Jörg , Ma Wei , Kuhlmann Markus , Brandt Ronny , Vanzela André L. L. , Beseda Tomáš , Šimková Hana , Pedrosa-Harand Andrea , Houben Andreas
Published: October 2015

Significance

Holocentric chromosomes are characterized by kinetochore activity along each sister chromatid. Although the kinetochore structure seems to be well conserved, as in monocentric organisms, the organization of holocentromeres is still elusive, and no centromeric repeat has been found associated with centromeric histone H3 variant-positive centromeric nucleosomes for any holocentric organism studied hitherto. We demonstrate that holocentrics of the sedge (Cyperaceae)Rhynchospora puberapossess different classes of centromere-specific repeats. Holocentromeres are composed of multiple centromeric units interspersing the gene-containing chromatin, and, as a functional adaption, a cell-cycle–dependent shuffling of centromeric units results in the formation of functional (poly)centromeres during cell division. The genome-wide distribution of centromeric repeat arrays interspersing the euchromatin provides a previously unidentified type of centromere organization.
The influx of Zimbabweans into South Africa: a crisis of governance that spills over
Authors: de Jager Nicola , Musuva Catherine
Published: October 2015

Post-apartheid South Africa has experienced its largest in-flow of migrants since the start of the crisis in Zimbabwe almost two decades ago from which Zimbabwe has yet to recover. This article aims to analyse the origins of the increased influx of Zimbabweans into South Africa, as well as consider the South African government’s response. Following an examination of the origins of the crisis, this article argues that while there are multiple dimensions to the crisis, it is ultimately a crisis of governance. It contends that poor policy decisions have negatively impacted on the economy and supports this with Zimbabwe’s scoring in the Ibrahim Index of African Governance since 2000. The article then attributes the mass exodus of Zimbabweans to the governance crisis and describes the mixed nature of Zimbabwean migration into South Africa since 2000. Thereafter, it analyses the South African government’s response towards Zimbabwean migration, which was initially slow and influenced by its foreign policy towards Zimbabwe, which failed to recognize a crisis of governance. It concludes that following the 2013 elections, Zimbabwe may yet slide further backwards and fail to stem the tide of migration.
Autophagy protects against de novo formation of the [PSI+] prion in yeast
Authors: Speldewinde Shaun H. , Doronina Victoria A. , Grant Chris M.
Published: October 2015

Prions are self-propagating, infectious proteins that underlie several neurodegenerative diseases. The molecular basis underlying their sporadic formation is poorly understood. We show that autophagy protects against de novo formation of [ PSI+], which is the prion form of the yeast Sup35 translation termination factor. Autophagy is a cellular degradation system, and preventing autophagy by mutating its core components elevates the frequency of spontaneous [ PSI+] formation. Conversely, increasing autophagic flux by treating cells with the polyamine spermidine suppresses prion formation in mutants that normally show a high frequency of de novo prion formation. Autophagy also protects against the de novo formation of another prion, namely the Rnq1/[ PIN+] prion, which is not related in sequence to the Sup35/[ PSI+] prion. We show that growth under anaerobic conditions in the absence of molecular oxygen abrogates Sup35 protein damage and suppresses the high frequency of [ PSI+] formation in an autophagy mutant. Autophagy therefore normally functions to remove oxidatively damaged Sup35, which accumulates in cells grown under aerobic conditions, but in the absence of autophagy, damaged/misfolded Sup35 undergoes structural transitions favoring its conversion to the propagatable [ PSI+] form.
Introduction
Authors: Bernier Mark
Published: October 2015

The first chapter provides an introduction to the central topic of the book, namely, that hope plays a crucial role in Kierkegaard’s narrative: the self is in despair, and faith provides the only means through which we can overcome this condition. Hope, it is suggested, essentially belongs to this narrative. A brief account is given of how Kierkegaard’s pseudonymous authorship will be treated, as well as the organization of the study. First, the nature of the Kierkegaardian self is examined, followed by the condition of despair. This reveals that the nature of despair involves an unwillingness to hope. Next, hope itself is examined, which placed hope as an essential element in the task of the self. Finally, the discussion turns to the relation between hope and faith. Faith, it is seen, involves the willingness to hope, as contrasted with despair’s unwillingness to hope.
Perturbation Methods
Authors: Ruban Anatoly I.
Published: October 2015

Chapter 1 discusses the mathematical aspects of the asymptotic theory. It starts with basic definitions, using for this purpose the so-called coordinate asymptotic expansions. Then the chapter turns to asymptotic analysis of integrals and describe, among others, the method of steepest descent. However, the main attention is with parametric asymptotic expansions. These are used in a wide variety of fluid–dynamic problems, for which purpose a number of asymptotic techniques has been developed. We discuss in Chapter 1 the method of matched asymptotic expansions, the method of multiple scales, the method of strained coordinates, and the WKB method.
Strong TCR-mediated signals suppress integrated stress responses induced by KDELR1 deficiency in naive T cells
Authors: Kamimura Daisuke , Arima Yasunobu , Tsuruoka Mineko , Jiang Jing-jing , Bando Hidenori , Meng Jie , Sabharwal Lavannya , Stofkova Andrea , Nishikawa Naoki , Higuchi Kotaro , Ogura Hideki , Atsumi Toru , Murakami Masaaki
Published: October 2015

KDEL receptor 1 (KDELR1) regulates integrated stress responses (ISR) to promote naive T-cell survival in vivo . In a mouse line having nonfunctional KDELR1, T-Red (naive T-cell reduced) mice, polyclonal naive T cells show excessive ISR and eventually undergo apoptosis. However, breeding T-Red mice with TCR-transgenic mice bearing relatively high TCR affinity rescued the T-Red phenotype, implying a link between ISR-induced apoptosis and TCR-mediated signaling. Here, we showed that strong TCR stimulation reduces ISR in naive T cells. In mice lacking functional KDELR1, surviving naive T cells expressed significantly higher levels of CD5, a surrogate marker of TCR self-reactivity. In addition, higher TCR affinity/avidity was confirmed using a tetramer dissociation assay on the surviving naive T cells, suggesting that among the naive T-cell repertoire, those that receive relatively stronger TCR-mediated signals via self-antigens survive enhanced ISR. Consistent with this observation, weak TCR stimulation with altered peptide ligands decreased the survival and proliferation of naive T cells, whereas stimulation with ligands having higher affinity had no such effect. These results suggest a novel role of TCR-mediated signals in the attenuation of ISR in vivo .
Accelerating the two-point and three-point galaxy correlation functions using Fourier transforms
Authors: Slepian Zachary , Eisenstein Daniel J.
Published: October 2015

Though Fourier transforms (FTs) are a common technique for finding correlation functions, they are not typically used in computations of the anisotropy of the two-point correlation function (2PCF) about the line of sight in wide-angle surveys because the line-of-sight direction is not constant on the Cartesian grid. Here we show how FTs can be used to compute the multipole moments of the anisotropic 2PCF. We also show how FTs can be used to accelerate the 3PCF algorithm of Slepian & Eisenstein. In both cases, these FT methods allow one to avoid the computational cost of pair counting, which scales as the square of the number density of objects in the survey. With the upcoming large data sets of Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument, Euclid, and Large Synoptic Survey Telescope, FT techniques will therefore offer an important complement to simple pair or triplet counts.
Recurrent Aeromonas Bacteremia Due to Contaminated Well Water
Authors: Katz Morgan J. , Parrish Nicole M. , Belani Anusha , Shah Maunank
Published: October 2015

Although they are ubiquitous to aquatic environments, Aeromonas species have traditionally been considered nonvirulent; however, in the past 30 years, they have emerged as important human pathogens that can cause a wide spectrum of disease. In this study, we describe a case of recurrent Aeromonas bacteremia in an immunocompetent patient, and this exposure was linked to the patient's home well water supply.
Spectra of hybrid synchrotron emission in hot black hole winds
Authors: Hayakawa Ken , Fukue Jun
Published: October 2015

We solve radiative transfer to obtain the hybrid synchrotron spectra from a hot, optically thin black hole wind, by integrating the radiative transfer equation in the comoving frame and considering the relativistic effect of wind flow as well as the emission and absorption along the line-of-sight. We find two primary characteristics in the hybrid model: (1) a shoulder at low frequencies and (2) a power-law tail at high frequencies. Even if only 10−4 of the total electron energy is injected as non-thermal electrons, higher luminosity can be produced compared to the pure thermal model. Thus, there is a large difference between the pure thermal model and the hybrid one. In addition, as the wind velocity becomes large, the thermal peak of the comoving spectra shifts toward the high-frequency regime, due to the relativistic Doppler effect. As the wind velocity increases, on the other hand, the thermal peak of the observed spectra shifts toward the low-frequency regime, due to the redshifted part in the far side and limb side.
The Diagnostic Accuracy of Gluteal Trigger Points to Differentiate Radicular From Nonradicular Low Back Pain
Authors: Adelmanesh Farhad , Jalali Ali , Shirvani Armin , Pakmanesh Kambiz , Pourafkari Marina , Raissi Gholam R. , Shir Yoram
Published: October 2015

Objectives:

Low back pain (LBP) is highly prevalent and costly to the society. Previous studies have shown an association between radicular LBP and trigger points (TrPs) in the superior-lateral quadrant of the gluteal area (GTrP). The objective of current study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of GTrP to predict nerve root involvement among patients with LBP.

Materials and Methods:

In a prospective, diagnostic accuracy study 325 consecutive patients with LBP were recruited. At first step, patients were evaluated for the presence or absence of the GTrP. A different investigator, blinded to the GTrP findings, then performed history taking and physical examination. Subsequently, all patients underwent a lumbar spine magnetic resonance imaging and, when indicated, electrodiagnostic tests. On the basis of the clinical and ancillary tests findings, a multidisciplinary panel of experts (the “reference standard”), blinded to the GTrP evaluation, allocated patients to radicular versus nonradicular LBP groups. The agreement between the GTrP findings, as a diagnostic test and the reference standard allocation was evaluated in a 2 by 2 contingency table.

Results:

The specificity of the GTrP test was 91.4% and its sensitivity was 74.1%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.827 (0.781 to 0.874). Positive likelihood ratio was 8.62 and negative likelihood ratio was 0.28. Positive and negative predictive values were 91.9% and 72.7%, respectively.

Discussion:

As a clinical finding, TrPs in superior-lateral quadrant of gluteal area are highly specific indicators for radicular LBP. Incorporating these TrPs evaluation in routine physical examination of patients with LBP could decrease the need for more costly, time-consuming, and invasive diagnostic tests.
Clinical Outcomes of a Pharmacy-Led Blood Factor Stewardship Program
Authors: Trueg Anne O. , Lowe Christopher , Kiel Patrick J.
Published: October 2015

To report the results of a pharmacist-directed blood factor stewardship program targeting off-label utilization designed to limit use to established organizational guidelines in high-risk populations. Prospective evaluation of recombinant factor VIIa and prothrombin complex concentrate orders beginning June 2013 through May 2014 and a matched retrospective cohort from June 2012 to May 2013. Matched cohorts were evaluated for 28-day mortality, change in international normalized ratio (INR), adverse events, concurrent blood product use, and cost savings. Forty-two orders for blood factor were ordered between June 2013 and May 2014, 70 orders in the year before (N = 112). Twenty eight–day mortality was not different between the cohorts: 53.9% versus 50% (P = 0.77). Blood factor use with underlying liver failure and active bleeding was strongly associated with 28-day mortality: odds ratio (95% confidence interval), 2.9 (1.5–7.14) and 2.91 (0.01–2.91), respectively. Blood products dispensed increased over the year with plasma products the most significant (1 vs. 4 P = 0.004). All other clinical outcomes were nonsignificant. An annual cost savings of $375,539 was achieved, primarily through a significant reduction in recombinant factor VIIa and avoidance in high-risk patients. Use of off-label blood factors can be controlled through a pharmacist-led stewardship program. Twenty eight–day mortality was not different between the 2 cohorts; however, identification of risk factors for death associated with blood factor use allows for restriction in high-risk populations, creates a discussion of futile care, and yields cost savings.
Percussive tool use by Taï Western chimpanzees and Fazenda Boa Vista bearded capuchin monkeys: a comparison
Authors: Visalberghi Elisabetta , Sirianni Giulia , Fragaszy Dorothy , Boesch Christophe
Published: October 2015

Percussive tool use holds special interest for scientists concerned with human origins. We summarize the findings from two field sites, Taï and Fazenda Boa Vista, where percussive tool use by chimpanzees and bearded capuchins, respectively, has been extensively investigated. We describe the ecological settings in which nut-cracking occurs and focus on four aspects of nut-cracking that have important cognitive implications, namely selection of tools, tool transport, tool modification and modulation of actions to reach the goal of cracking the nut. We comment on similarities and differences in behaviour and consider whether the observed differences reflect ecological, morphological, social and/or cognitive factors. Both species are sensitive to physical properties of tools, adjust their selection of hammers conditionally to the resistance of the nuts and to transport distance, and modulate the energy of their strikes under some conditions. However, chimpanzees transport hammers more frequently and for longer distances, take into account a higher number of combinations of variables and occasionally intentionally modify tools. A parsimonious interpretation of our findings is that morphological, ecological and social factors account for the observed differences. Confirmation of plausible cognitive differences in nut-cracking requires data not yet available.
Limestone percussion tools from the late Early Pleistocene sites of Barranco León and Fuente Nueva 3 (Orce, Spain)
Authors: Barsky Deborah , Vergès Josep-María , Sala Robert , Menéndez Leticia , Toro-Moyano Isidro
Published: October 2015

In recent years, there is growing interest in the study of percussion scars and breakage patterns on hammerstones, cores and tools from Oldowan African and Eurasian lithic assemblages. Oldowan stone toolkits generally contain abundant small-sized flakes and their corresponding cores, and are characterized by their structural dichotomy of heavy- and light-duty tools. This paper explores the significance of the lesser known heavy-duty tool component, providing data from the late Lower Pleistocene sites of Barranco León and Fuente Nueva 3 (Orce, Spain), dated 1.4–1.2 Myr. Using quantitative and qualitative data from the large-sized limestone industries from these two major sites, we present a new methodology highlighting their morpho-technological features. In the light of the results, we discuss the shortfalls of extant classificatory methods for interpreting the role of percussive technology in early toolkits. This work is rooted in an experimental program designed to reproduce the wide range of percussion marks observed on the limestone artefacts from these two sites. A visual and descriptive reference is provided as an interpretative aid for future comparative research. Further experiments using a variety of materials and gestures are still needed before the elusive traces yield the secrets of the kinds of percussive activities carried out by hominins at these, and other, Oldowan sites.
The abundance of large, piscivorous Ferox Trout (Salmo trutta) in Loch Rannoch, Scotland
Authors: Thorne Alastair , MacDonald Alasdair I. , Thorley Joseph L.
Published: October 2015

Background

Ferox Trout are large, long-lived piscivorous Brown Trout (Salmo trutta). Due to their exceptionally large size, Ferox Trout are highly sought after by anglers while their life-history strategy, which includes delayed maturation, multiphasic growth and extended longevity, is of interest to ecological and evolutionary modelers. However, despite their recreational and theoretical importance, little is known about the typical abundance of Ferox Trout.

Methods

To rectify this situation a 16 year angling-based mark-recapture study was conducted on Loch Rannoch, which at 19 km2is one of the largest lakes in the United Kingdom.

Results

A hierarchical Bayesian Jolly-Seber analysis of the data suggest that if individual differences in catchability are negligible the population of Ferox Trout in Loch Rannoch in 2009 was approximately 71 fish. The results also suggest that a single, often unaccompanied, highly-experienced angler was able to catch roughly 8% of the available fish on an annual basis.

Discussion

It is recommended that anglers adopt a precautionary approach and release all trout with a fork length ≥ 400 mm caught by trolling in Loch Rannoch. There is an urgent need to assess the status of Ferox Trout in other lakes.
Sorting algorithms for single-particle imaging experiments at X-ray free-electron lasers
Authors: Bobkov S. A. , Teslyuk A. B. , Kurta R. P. , Gorobtsov O. Yu. , Yefanov O. M. , Ilyin V. A. , Senin R. A. , Vartanyants I. A.
Published: October 2015

Modern X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) operating at high repetition rates produce a tremendous amount of data. It is a great challenge to classify this information and reduce the initial data set to a manageable size for further analysis. Here an approach for classification of diffraction patterns measured in prototypical diffract-and-destroy single-particle imaging experiments at XFELs is presented. It is proposed that the data are classified on the basis of a set of parameters that take into account the underlying diffraction physics and specific relations between the real-space structure of a particle and its reciprocal-space intensity distribution. The approach is demonstrated by applying principal component analysis and support vector machine algorithms to the simulated and measured X-ray data sets.
Crystal structure of {2-[({2-[(2-aminoethyl)amino]ethyl}imino)methyl]-6-hydroxyphenolato-κ4N,N′,N′′,O1}(nitrato-κO)copper(II) ethanol 0.25-solvate
Authors: Noor Shabana , Kumar Sarvendra , Sabir Suhail , Seidel Rüdiger W. , Goddard Richard
Published: October 2015

In the crystal structure of the title mononuclear CuIIcomplex, [Cu(C11H16N3O2)(NO3)]·0.25C2H5OH, the complex molecules are linked by N—H...O and O—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming a dimer with an approximate non-crystallographic twofold rotation axis of symmetry. In the monomeric unit, the Cu2+ion exhibits a distorted square-pyramidal configuration, whereby the anionic [HL]−Schiff base ligand binds in a tetradentate fashionviathe O and the three N atoms which all are approximately coplanar. The O atom of a nitrate anion occupies the fifth coordination site, causing the CuIIatom to move slightly out of the approximate basal plane toward the bound nitrate group. The structure exhibits disorder of the ethanol solvent molecule.
Real-virtual interaction in AR assembly simulation based on component contact handling strategy
Authors: Wang X. , Ong S.K. , Nee A.Y.C.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to propose and implement an integrated augmented-reality (AR)-aided assembly environment to incorporate the interaction between real and virtual components, so that users can obtain a more immersive experience of the assembly simulation in real time and achieve better assembly design.

Design/methodology/approach

– A component contact handling strategy is proposed to model all the possible movements of virtual components when they interact with real components. A novel assembly information management approach is proposed to access and modify the information instances dynamically corresponding to user manipulation. To support the interaction between real and virtual components, a hybrid marker-less tracking method is implemented.

Findings

– A prototype system has been developed, and a case study of an automobile alternator assembly is presented. A set of tests is implemented to validate the feasibility, efficiency, accuracy and intuitiveness of the system.

Research limitations/implications

– The prototype system allows the users to manipulate and assemble the designed virtual components to the real components, so that the users can check for possible design errors and modify the original design in the context of their final use and in the real-world scale.

Originality/value

– This paper proposes an integrated AR simulation and planning platform based on hybrid-tracking and ontology-based assembly information management. Component contact handling strategy based on collision detection and assembly feature surfaces mating reasoning is proposed to solve component degree of freedom.
Workspace, dexterity and dimensional optimization of microhexapod
Authors: Rouhani E. , Nategh M. J.
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study the workspace and dexterity of a microhexapod which is a 6-degrees of freedom (DOF) parallel compliant manipulator, and also to investigate its dimensional synthesis to maximize the workspace and the global dexterity index at the same time. Microassembly is so essential in the current industry for manufacturing complicated structures. Most of the micromanipulators suffer from their restricted workspace because of using flexure joints compared to the conventional ones. In addition, the controllability of micromanipulators inside the whole workspace is very vital. Thus, it is very important to select the design parameters in a way that not only maximize the workspace but also its global dexterity index.

Design/methodology/approach

– Microassembly is so essential in the current industry for manufacturing complicated structures. Most of the micromanipulators suffer from their restricted workspace because of using flexure joints compared to the conventional ones. In addition, the controllability of micromanipulators inside the whole workspace is very vital. Thus, it is very important to select the design parameters in a way that not only maximize the workspace but also its global dexterity index.

Findings

– It has been shown that the proposed procedure for the workspace calculation can considerably speed the required calculations. The optimization results show that a converged-diverged configuration of pods and an increase in the difference between the moving and the stationary platforms’ radii cause the global dexterity index to increase and the workspace to decrease.

Originality/value

– The proposed algorithm for the workspace analysis is very important, especially when it is an objective function of an optimization problem based on the search method. In addition, using screw theory can simply construct the homogeneous Jacobian matrix. The proposed methodology can be used for any other micromanipulator.
Modeling the impact of distance between offices and borrowers on agricultural loan volume
Authors: Witte Taylor , DeVuyst Eric A , Whitacre Brian , Jones Rodney
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– Farm Credit is a major provider of credit to agricultural producers in Oklahoma and nationally. The decision to place a new Farm Credit office reduces borrower search and travel costs and should increase loan volume. The purpose of this paper is to model the new loan volume as function of distance from east central Oklahoma county centroids to Farm Credit offices. The model is then used to predict the impact of placing new offices in underserved areas.

Design/methodology/approach

– County aggregate new loan volume is regressed on distances to Farm Credit branch and field offices and other variables expected to impact agricultural loan volume. The estimated model is used to predict new loan volume impact of adding additional branch and field offices in counties that did not have these offices. Confidence intervals are used to measure the significance of predicted loan volumes.

Findings

– Distances from county centroids to both branch and field offices were found to significantly reduce new loan volume. The results were used to simulate the addition of new branch and field offices. The simulation predicted the added annual new loan volume associated with office additions.

Practical implications

– Using spatial models, Farm Credit of east central Oklahoma and other agricultural lenders can better plan for expansion (or consolidation). These models indicate counties where annual new loan volume will likely be higher (or lower for consolidation) than other nearby counties. The result can be improved borrower access and system financial performance.

Originality/value

– While spatial modeling has been utilized in other sectors, little has been done relative to agricultural credit access and impact on loan volume. The model here explicitly models the impact that distance to Farm Credit offices have on annual new loan volume.
Farm household risk balancing: implications for policy from an EU perspective
Authors: Wauters Erwin , de Mey Yann , van Winsen Frankwin , Van Passel Steven , Vancauteren Mark , Lauwers Ludwig
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– Building on the risk balancing theory and on recent discussions the appropriateness of using farm income maximization as behavioural assumption, this paper extends the risk balancing framework by accounting for business-household interactions. The purpose of this paper is to theoretically introduce the concept of farm household risk balancing, a theoretical framework in which the farm household sets a constraint on the total household-level risk and balances farm-level and off-farm-level risk.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper argues that the risk behaviour of farmers is better understood by considering risk at the household level. Using an analytical framework, equations are derived linking the farm activities, off-farm activities, consumption and business and private liquidity.

Findings

– The framework shows that a farm household that wants to minimize the risk that total household cash flow falls below consumption needs, may exhibit a wide variety of behavioural responses to changes in the policy and economic environment.

Social implications

– The framework suggests multiple ways for policy makers and individual farmers to support risk management.

Originality/value

– Risk management is at the core of the agricultural policy and it is of paramount importance to be able to understand behavioural responses to market and policy instruments. This paper contributes to that by suggesting that the focus of current risk analysis and management studies may be too narrowly focused at the farm level.
Social religiosity: concept and measurement across divergent cultures
Authors: Mathur Anil , Barak Benny , Zhang Yong , Lee Keun S. , Yoo Boonghee , Ha Jeeyeon
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to develop a scale to measure social religiosity (SR) and assess its measurement invariance across different cultures.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research relied on samples from China (n=486), India (n=377), Japan (n=362), Korea (n=386), and the USA (n=580). The invariance process involved carrying out a series of confirmatory factor analyses with progressively more restrictive constraints.

Findings

– Results show the SR scale to be reliable and valid across culturally and religiously diverse countries. Implications of the findings are also discussed.

Originality/value

– Based on Katz (1988) this is a new scale to measure SR and its measurement invariance is assessed across culturally divergent countries.
Factors obstructing intentions to trust and purchase products online
Authors: Kaur Gurjeet , Khanam Quareshi Tahira
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore reasons for not buying products through online. The study also tries to explain the relationship between intentions to trust (IT) and online purchase intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

– Data were collected through well-structured instrument, distributed to 226 students of Masters of Business Administration and Masters of Computer Applications departments of a north Indian University. Confirmatory Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modelling were used to analyse the data and to test the formulated hypotheses.

Findings

– The results of the study highlight that 90 per cent of the respondents are aware about online shopping sites but only 38 per cent are online buyers of various products. Major reasons for not shopping are lack of security, absence of physical examination and testing of products, lack of product’s complete information, unattractive visual displays and layouts, etc. However, it is observed that nearly 79 per cent respondents have positive intentions to buy products online in near future.

Research limitations/implications

– There is a need to study actual online buying behaviour. Also, models like Technology Acceptance Model and Diffusion of Innovation have not been studied. As the study was confined to students only, it can be replicated to other age group consumer segments and extended to other emerging economies as well. There is a need to take into consideration some other important dimensions in the future studies, namely, predictability, familiarity, third party certification, attitude, ease of use, perceived risk, etc., for the better analysis of behaviour.

Practical implications

– E-vendors must properly implement money back guarantee schemes when there is non-delivery of ordered goods, provide dispute resolution system, instil confidence in customers, highlight security, privacy policy, display contacts details, etc., to increase customers’ IT and purchase products online.

Originality/value

– The paper identifies the factors that obstruct customer to purchase products online. More particularly, in Indian context the present study makes valuable contribution as the Indians have been reported to be techno phobic and uncertainty avoidant.
Remunerating non-executive directors with stock options: who is ignoring the regulator?
Authors: Seamer Michael , Melia Adrian
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to investigate the incidence of remunerating Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)-listed non-executive directors (NEDs) with options and to determine whether companies that fail to adhere to NED remuneration recommendations share a common corporate governance profile. Despite corporate regulators condemning the practice of remunerating NEDs with stock options, there is a paucity of evidence regarding its prevalence in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

– Focusing on ASX400 companies during 2008, a series of hypotheses relating NED stock option remuneration and corporate governance are tested using logistic regression.

Findings

– The study shows that the prevalence and quantum of NED option payments during 2008 was considerable with 73 of the ASX400 companies, including options in NED remuneration (option payers). Comparison of the corporate governance characteristics of option payers to that of a matched control group (non-option payers) highlighted both the existence and independence of the remuneration committee as critical in ensuring NED remuneration practices comply with regulator recommendations.

Research limitations/implications

– These results provide regulators and stakeholder groups with additional evidence to continue to call for corporate governance reforms to ensure that corporate remuneration practices are in the best interest of shareholders.

Originality/value

– This study is the first to highlight the extent to which Australian-listed company NED remuneration practices fail to comply with regulator recommendations and adds to the limited research on remuneration committee effectiveness.
Nursing experiences of clinical governance implementation: a qualitative study
Authors: Sadeghi-Bazargani Homayoun , Tabrizi Jafar Sadegh , Saadati Mohammad , Hassanzadeh Roya , Alizadeh Gisoo
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– Clinical governance (CG) was used as a driver to improve safety and quality of healthcare. CG implementing is a change in health system and all the stakeholders must be participating. The purpose of this paper is to study nurses’ experience about CG movement in Tabriz hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

– A qualitative study using Focus Group Discussions (FGD) was done. Purposeful Sampling was used to select the objectives including 65 participants. Actually seven FGD’s were held. Content analysis was used to extract the meaningful themes.

Findings

– It is revealed that nurses are the focal point in CG implementation in hospitals. Low commitment of managers and lack of physicians’ contribution was experienced by nurses. However, personnel education and development and patient safety have got more attention. Blame culture and increased work stress was reported as challenges.

Originality/value

– CG as a change in healthcare system, especially in low- and middle-income countries, is faced by several challenges and its implementation would have different experiences. Nursing staff, the major group in hospitals, would be having interesting experiences through CG. Their practical opinions could guide the policy makers to employ proper plans to effectively implement CG. Considering the result of this study in practice would lead to improve CG implementation.
Clinical Governance Review 20:4
Authors: MacVane Phipps Fiona
Published: October 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide a quick overview of the current journal content.

Design/methodology/approach

– A review of five papers.

Findings

– The review section brings together the differing aspects of clinical governance discussed in the current journal.

Originality/value

– The review section enables readers to prioritise articles with the most relevance for their needs or particular fields of healthcare.