bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Linear gyrokinetic particle-in-cell simulations of Alfvén instabilities in tokamaks
Authors: Biancalani A. , Bottino A. , Briguglio S. , Könies A. , Lauber Ph. , Mishchenko A. , Poli E. , Scott B. D. , Zonca F.
Published: January 2016

The linear dynamics of Alfvén modes in tokamaks is investigated here by means of the global gyrokinetic particle-in-cell code ORB5, within the NEMORB project. The model equations are shown and the local shear Alfvén wave dispersion relation is derived, recovering the continuous spectrum in the incompressible ideal MHD limit. A verification and benchmark analysis is performed for continuum modes in a cylinder and for toroidicity-induced Alfvén Eigenmodes. Modes in a reversed-shear equilibrium are also investigated, and the dependence of the spatial structure in the poloidal plane on the equilibrium parameters is described. In particular, a phase-shift in the poloidal angle is found to be present for modes whose frequency touches the continuum, whereas a radial symmetry is found to be characteristic of modes in the continuum gap.
High order magnetic optics for high dynamic range proton radiography at a kinetic energy of 800 MeV
Authors: Sjue S. K. L. , Mariam F. G. , Merrill F. E. , Morris C. L. , Saunders A.
Published: January 2016

Flash radiography with 800 MeV kinetic energy protons at Los Alamos National Laboratory is an important experimental tool for investigations of dynamic material behavior driven by high explosives or pulsed power. The extraction of quantitative information about density fields in a dynamic experiment from proton generated images requires a high fidelity model of the proton imaging process. It is shown that accurate calculations of the transmission through the magnetic lens system require terms beyond second order for protons far from the tune energy. The approach used integrates the correlated multiple Coulomb scattering distribution simultaneously over the collimator and the image plane. Comparison with a series of static calibration images demonstrates the model’s accurate reproduction of both the transmission and blur over a wide range of tune energies in an inverse identity lens that consists of four quadrupole electromagnets.
Time history prediction of direct-drive implosions on the Omega facility
Authors: Laffite S. , Bourgade J. L. , Caillaud T. , Delettrez J. A. , Frenje J. A. , Girard F. , Glebov V. Yu. , Joshi T. , Landoas O. , Legay G. , Lemaire S. , Mancini R. C. , Marshall F. J. , Masse L. , Masson-Laborde P. E. , Michel D. T. , Philippe F. , Reverdin C. , Seka W. , Tassin V.
Published: January 2016

We present in this article direct-drive experiments that were carried out on the Omega facility [T. R. Boehly et al., Opt. Commun. 133, 495 (1997)]. Two different pulse shapes were tested in order to vary the implosion stability of the same target whose parameters, dimensions and composition, remained the same. The direct-drive configuration on the Omega facility allows the accurate time-resolved measurement of the scattered light. We show that, provided the laser coupling is well controlled, the implosion time history, assessed by the “bang-time” and the shell trajectory measurements, can be predicted. This conclusion is independent on the pulse shape. In contrast, we show that the pulse shape affects the implosion stability, assessed by comparing the target performances between prediction and measurement. For the 1-ns square pulse, the measured neutron number is about 80% of the prediction. For the 2-step 2-ns pulse, we test here that this ratio falls to about 20%.
Application and comparison of band gap narrowing models for passivated phosphorus doped silicon surfaces
Authors: Kimmerle Achim , Greulich Johannes , Haug Halvard , Wolf Andreas
Published: January 2016

In this work, the recently proposed band-gap narrowing model by Yan and Cuevas [J. Appl. Phys. 114, 044508 (2013)] is evaluated by simulations of the recombination pre-factor J0 of highly phosphorus doped, passivated crystalline silicon surfaces, which are particularly relevant for solar cell applications. The results were fitted to experimental J0 data measured on a large range of samples exhibiting different dopant profiles and passivation coatings, both for planar and textured surfaces. For each sample, the surface recombination velocity parameter Sp was extracted by fitting the simulation results to the experimental data. We show that the Yan and Cuevas' model developed for Fermi-Dirac statistics leads to a smooth and monotonically increasing curve for Sp as a function of the surface dopant concentration Nsurf, for both investigated passivation layers. We provide a parameterization for this relation and compare the findings with those obtained with the widely used model by Schenk [J. Appl. Phys. 84, 3684 (1998)]. On the other hand, we show that the apparent band gap narrowing of Yan and Cuevas developed for use with Boltzmann statistics cannot be used to describe the experimental data, requiring unphysical negative Sp values for high Nsurf.
A novel laser-induced fluorescence scheme for Ar-I in a plasma
Authors: Short Zachary D. , Siddiqui M. Umair , Henriquez Miguel F. , McKee John S. , Scime Earl E.
Published: January 2016

Here we describe a novel infrared laser-induced fluorescence scheme for the 1s2 state of Ar-I using an 841.052 nm (vacuum) Sacher tunable diode laser oscillator and compare it to an established 667.913 nm (vacuum) 1s4-pumping Ar-I LIF scheme using a master oscillator power amplifier laser [A. M. Keesee et al. Rev. Sci. Instrum. 75, 4091 (2004)]. The novel scheme exhibits a significantly greater signal-to-noise ratio for a given injected laser power than the established scheme. We argue that this is caused by less intense spontaneous Ar-I radiation near the LIF emission wavelength for the 1s2 scheme as compared to the 1s4 scheme. In addition we present an updated iodine cell spectrum around the 1s4 LIF scheme pump wavelength.
Dynamic non-reciprocal meta-surfaces with arbitrary phase reconfigurability based on photonic transition in meta-atoms
Authors: Shi Yu , Fan Shanhui
Published: January 2016

We introduce a distinct class of dynamic non-reciprocal meta-surfaces with arbitrary phase-reconfigurability. This meta-surface consists of an array of meta-atoms, each of which is subject to temporal refractive index modulation, which induces photonic transitions between the states of the meta-atom. We show that arbitrary phase profile for the outgoing wave can be achieved by controlling the phase of the modulation at each meta-atom. Moreover, such dynamic meta-surfaces exhibit non-reciprocal response without the need for magneto-optical effects. The use of photonic transition significantly enhances the tunability and the possible functionalities of meta-surfaces.
Bright source of indistinguishable photons based on cavity-enhanced parametric down-conversion utilizing the cluster effect
Authors: Ahlrichs Andreas , Benson Oliver
Published: January 2016

We present a bright, simple-to-setup, single-mode source of indistinguishable photon pairs at the cesium D1-line with a bandwidth of about 100 MHz. The source is based on degenerate, cavity enhanced spontaneous parametric down-conversion utilizing the cluster effect. The setup relies on a microcontroller-based digital locking system. A brightness of 1.1×103/(s  mW) detected, indistinguishable photon pairs could be measured.
Dynamic atomic layer epitaxy of InN on/in +c-GaN matrix: Effect of “In+N” coverage and capping timing by GaN layer on effective InN thickness
Authors: Yoshikawa Akihiko , Kusakabe Kazuhide , Hashimoto Naoki , Hwang Eun-Sook , Itoi Takaomi
Published: January 2016

The growth front in the self-organizing and self-limiting epitaxy of ∼1 monolayer (ML)-thick InN wells on/in +c-GaN matrix by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) has been studied in detail, with special attention given to the behavior and role of the N atoms. The growth temperatures of interest are above 600 °C, far higher than the typical upper critical temperature of 500 °C in MBE. It was confirmed that 2 ML-thick InN wells can be frozen/inserted in GaN matrix at 620 °C, but it was found that N atoms at the growth front tend to selectively re-evaporate more quickly than In atoms at temperatures higher than 650 °C. As a result, the effective thickness of inserted InN wells in the GaN matrix at 660–670 °C were basically 1 ML or sub-ML, even though they were capped by a GaN barrier at the time of 2 ML “In+N” coverage. Furthermore, it was found that the N atoms located below In atoms in the dynamic atomic layer epitaxy growth front had remarkably weaker bonding to the +c-GaN surface.
Direct imaging of radio-frequency modes via traveling wave magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Tonyushkin A. , Deelchand D. K. , Van de Moortele P.-F. , Adriany G. , Kiruluta A.
Published: January 2016

We demonstrate an experimental method for direct 2D and 3D imaging of magnetic radio-frequency (rf) field distribution in metal-dielectric structures based on traveling wave (TW) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at ultra-high field (>7 T). The typical apparatus would include an ultra-high field whole body or small bore MRI scanner, waveguide elements filled with MRI active dielectrics with predefined electric and magnetic properties, and TW rf transmit-receive probes. We validated the technique by obtaining TW MR images of the magnetic field distribution of the rf modes of circular waveguide filled with deionized water in a 16.4 T small-bore MRI scanner and compared the MR images with numerical simulations. Our MRI technique opens up a practical non-perturbed way of imaging of previously inaccessible rf field distribution of modes inside various shapes metal waveguides with inserted dielectric objects, including waveguide mode converters and transformers.
Robust high pressure stability and negative thermal expansion in sodium-rich antiperovskites Na3OBr and Na4OI2
Authors: Wang Yonggang , Wen Ting , Park Changyong , Kenney-Benson Curtis , Pravica Michael , Yang Wenge , Zhao Yusheng
Published: January 2016

The structure stability under high pressure and thermal expansion behavior of Na3OBr and Na4OI2, two prototypes of alkali-metal-rich antiperovskites, were investigated by in situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction techniques under high pressure and low temperature. Both are soft materials with bulk modulus of 58.6 GPa and 52.0 GPa for Na3OBr and Na4OI2, respectively. The cubic Na3OBr structure and tetragonal Na4OI2 with intergrowth K2NiF4 structure are stable under high pressure up to 23 GPa. Although being a characteristic layered structure, Na4OI2 exhibits nearly isotropic compressibility. Negative thermal expansion was observed at low temperature range (20–80 K) in both transition-metal-free antiperovskites for the first time. The robust high pressure structure stability was examined and confirmed by first-principles calculations among various possible polymorphisms qualitatively. The results provide in-depth understanding of the negative thermal expansion and robust crystal structure stability of these antiperovskite systems and their potential applications.
Electro-mechanical response of top-gated LaAlO3/SrTiO3
Authors: Bi Feng , Huang Mengchen , Bark Chung-Wung , Ryu Sangwoo , Lee Sanghan , Eom Chang-Beom , Irvin Patrick , Levy Jeremy
Published: January 2016

LaAlO3/SrTiO3 heterostructures are known to exhibit a sharp, hysteretic metal-insulator transition (MIT) with large enhanced capacitance near depletion. To understand the physical origin of this behavior, the electromechanical response of top-gated LaAlO3/SrTiO3 heterostructures is probed using two simultaneous measurement techniques: piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) and capacitance spectroscopy. The observed hysteretic PFM responses show strong correlation with the capacitance signals, suggesting an interfacial carrier-mediated structural distortion associated with the gate-tuned MIT. In addition, the frequency dependence of the capacitance enhancement in LaAlO3/SrTiO3 is found to be well-matched to local PFM measurements. Our experimental results provide a fuller understanding of the top-gate tuned MIT in oxide heterostructure, which could be helpful for the development of future oxide-based nanoelectronics.
Communication: Electrical rectification of C59N: The role of anchoring and doping sites
Authors: Tawfik Sherif Abdulkader , Cui X. Y. , Ringer S. P. , Stampfl C.
Published: January 2016

Based on the nonequilibrium Green’s function formalism and density-functional theory, we investigate the onset of electrical rectification in a single C59N molecule in conjunction with gold electrodes. Our calculations reveal that rectification is dependent upon the anchoring of the Au atom on C59N; when the Au electrode is singly bonded to a C atom (labeled here as A), the system does not exhibit rectification, whereas when the electrode is connected to the C–C bridge site between two hexagonal rings (labeled here as B), transmission asymmetry is observed, where the rectification ratio reaches up to 2.62 at ±1 V depending on the N doping site relative to the anchoring site. Our analysis of the transmission mechanism shows that N doping of the B configuration causes rectification because more transmission channels are available for transmission in the B configuration than in the A configuration.
GPS collars are more efficient when collecting high-frequency data
Authors: McGregor H. W. , Legge S. M. , Jones M. E. , Johnson C. N.
Published: January 2016

Selecting an appropriate fix schedule has a pivotal role when using GPS collars. On the basis of deployments of GPS collars on 35 cats, we report on an often overlooked consideration: that GPS units are more efficient collecting data at high frequencies (15 min between fixes in this study) than low frequencies (>2 h between fixes).
Sensing surface morphology of biofibers by decorating spider silk and cellulosic filaments with nematic microdroplets
Authors: Aguirre Luis E. , de Oliveira Alexandre , Seč David , Čopar Simon , Almeida Pedro L. , Ravnik Miha , Godinho Maria Helena , Žumer Slobodan
Published: January 2016

Significance

Biological microfibers are remarkable materials with diverse structural and mechanical properties, such as high wear-resistance, elasticity, and biodegradability. However, with current techniques, there are few robust ways to sense the surface properties of the fibers, which crucially affect the organization of the fibers and their interactions with the surrounding material. In this paper, we show that surfaces of diverse biofibers, including spider silks and cellulosic fibers, can be easily sensed by depositing droplets of a nematic fluid onto the fibers. The droplets reveal the surface properties of the fibers via their optical images, notably showing also the fiber chirality. Further, the droplets are used to study the entanglement of biofibers, as a route toward novel biological and bioinspired materials.
Unstable FoxP3
+
T regulatory cells in NZW mice
Authors: Dépis Fabien , Kwon Ho-Keun , Mathis Diane , Benoist Christophe
Published: January 2016

Significance

FoxP3
+
regulatory T (Treg) cells are essential controllers of immune and autoimmune responses. Their homeostatic balance integrates genetic and environmental inputs, which result in marked interindividual variation in their proportions in mice and humans. The instability of Treg cells and of the lineage-determining factor FoxP3 observed here in the NZW strain, accompanied by low sensitivity to trophic cytokines and network-level dysregulation of the Treg transcriptional signature, has implications for our understanding and potential therapeutic handling of Treg-linked disease—autoimmune or neoplastic.
Predictable grammatical constructions
Authors: Lucas Sandra
Published: January 2016

My aim in this paper is to provide evidence from diachronic linguistics for the view that some predictable units are entrenched in grammar and consequently in human cognition in a way that makes them functionally and structurally equal to nonpredictable grammatical units, suggesting that these predictable units should be considered grammatical constructions on a par with the nonpredictable constructions. Frequency has usually been seen as the only possible argument speaking in favor of viewing some formally and semantically fully predictable units as grammatical constructions. However this paper presents evidence from historical linguistics, and more specifically diachronic arguments of a syntactic nature, to support the argument of frequency. I demonstrate that contrary to other Medieval Greek future periphrases, the Early Medieval Greek form [méllo(‘I am about to’) INFINITIVE (INF)] was both semantically and formally predictable. Despite this difference, [mélloINF], like the other future periphrases, seems to be highly entrenched in the cognition (and grammar) of Early Medieval Greek language users, and consequently a grammatical construction. The syntactic evidence speaking in favor of [mélloINF] as a grammatical construction consists in the following features: 1) [mélloINF] is more resistant to restructuring than many other verbal periphrases with an INF; and 2) in LBG [mélloINF] seems to have grammaticalized — as one of its uses — a specialized function embedded in subjunctives, in whichméllowas semantically empty. Both these developments indicate that despite being both formally and semantically predictable, [mélloINF] was highly entrenched in EBG grammar.
Clitic doubling and differential object marking
Authors: David Oana
Published: January 2016

This work follows the progression of a grammatical construction that unifies the Romanian accusative preposition pe with a coreferential pronominal clitic, together forming the cd-pe construction. On the basis of historical texts, it is argued that these two grammatical phenomena evolved into a clause-level construction with a dedicated semantics and pragmatics in the modern language. A corpus analysis illustrates how cd-pe won out against a competitor pe-only construction that persisted until as recently as the early 20th century, and which is still retained in some dialects and registers. The broader scope is to refocus the discussion of clitic doubling on pragmatic motivators in light of diachronic constructionalization processes, and to reflect on the nature of similar clitic doubling phenomena evident in other Romance languages in terms of the entrenchment of language-specific constructionalization processes.
Measure words, plurality, and cross-linguistic variation
Authors: Mathieu Eric , Zareikar Gita
Published: January 2016

In the context of Borer’s (2005) theory of nominal classification, the aim of this paper is to explain why measure words in some languages (English, French, Hebrew) necessarily take an -s(two bottles of milkversus*two bottle of milk)while in other languages (Azeri, Persian, Ojibwe) measure words can surface without plural marking (the equivalent oftwo bottle of milkis grammatical). If we assume-sin English-type languages is responsible for division in measure constructions (as in Borer 2005), we face the following puzzle: What is responsible for division in Azeri-type languages in the absence of the plural? We argue that, for a number of reasons, it cannot be the numeral (two)and propose that division is performed, in the absence of a plural, by measure words themselves (as in Chierchia 1998; Stavrou 2003; Acquaviva 2008, among others). We argue that whether or not plural marking appears on the measure word depends on a higher projection that expresses the counting function (distinct from the classifying/measuring function, Rothstein 2010b). Measure constructions thus provide evidence for the idea that, in addition to the dividing plural, we need a higher, counting plural, bolstering the hypothesis that the plural comes in many flavours (Acquaviva 2008; Harbour 2008; Wiltschko 2008, 2012; Butler 2012; Mathieu 2012, 2013, 2014).
Two types of wh-exclamatives
Authors: Nouwen Rick , Chernilovskaya Anna
Published: January 2016

We study a particular aspect of the semantics of matrix wh-exclamatives. In particular, we focus on the relation between fairly straightforward morpho-syntactic properties of such structures and the kind of scalar meanings they express. We identify two types of wh-exclamatives: two distinct types of structures with two distinct types of scalar meaning. Languages differ with respect to which wh expressions serve in which of the two types.
Environmental resources and the hotel industry: the case of Slovenia.
Authors: Mihalič T.
Published: January 2016

This chapter explores the capacity of environmental resources to become a competitive advantage for the hotel industry, making an application to Slovenia. The chapter investigates whether hotel managers perceive environmental management techniques as a competitive factor of this business, and the level of priority they confer to these tools. The distinction between the actions of environmental quality management (EQM) and environmental impact management (EIM) is also investigated. In this context, the competitive advantage factor (CAF) model is expanded by a new factor, the environmental management and EQM and EIM components. The model is tested empirically in the case of the Slovenian hotel industry. The investigation provides a benchmark to measure the competitive advantages provided by environmental management techniques.
Understanding the seasonal concentration of tourist arrivals: the case of the south of Spain.
Authors: Cisneros-Martínez J. D. , Fernández-Morales A.
Published: January 2016

This chapter analyses the seasonal concentration of tourism in the region of Andalusia, southern Spain, over the period 1999-2013. Employing microdata based on tourist surveys, segments of visitors showing a clear counter-seasonal behaviour are identified. In particular, the chapter focuses on establishing the role that cultural tourism can play in confronting the seasonality of demand, attracting new visitors in low-season periods to the five coastal destinations under study.
Socio-economic profile of sustainable tourists and expenditure at destinations: a local-based analysis in Andalusia, Spain.
Authors: Cárdenas-García P. J. , Pulido-Fernández J. I.
Published: January 2016

This chapter studies the profile of sustainable tourists and the expenditure patterns at destinations, using data from a survey of 1180 tourists who visited Andalusia, Spain, during 2013. The study begins by identifying the profile of a 'sustainable tourist'. Then, by means of a regression model, the determinants of expenditure are estimated on the basis of the sociodemographic characteristics of such sustainable tourists. The analysis is developed for particular destinations inside this region, the mid-sized cities. The chapter concludes by establishing a number of tourism policy proposals aimed at improving the tourism management of emerging mid-sized urban cultural destinations.
Facing the challenges of sustainability: the case of Bulgarian tourism.
Authors: Stankova M.
Published: January 2016

This chapter reviews the broader challenges of defining sustainability issues for a particular destination, in this case that of an emerging tourism country in Europe, Bulgaria. The search for an increasing level of revenues and development in an emerging destination is confronted in this chapter, along with the necessary sustainability issues that should be guiding the tourism life cycle of the destination. The review of previous experiences and the current situation underlines the need for the conscious and purposeful cooperation of all stakeholders, notably through the development of sustainable tourism strategic initiatives.
Transport simulations of the pre–thermal–quench phase in ASDEX Upgrade massive gas injection experiments
Authors: Fable E. , Pautasso G. , Lehnen M. , Dux R. , Bernert M. , Mlynek A.
Published: January 2016

The pre–thermal–quench (PTQ) phase of the massive gas injection (MGI) scenario to terminate the tokamak plasma discharge is studied by means of one-dimensional (1D) transport simulations. This phase is characterized by the cold–front penetration in the hot plasma after the gas has been released from the valves, and before the actual thermal quench takes place, with consequent plasma disruption at lower stored energy. The comparison between the simulations and the ASDEX Upgrade (AUG) experiments allows to gain insight in the observed dependencies and time scales. Despite the genuine three-dimensional structure of the problem, it is shown that the 1D simulations are already giving experimentally relevant answers, the reason for which will be discussed in detail. Influence of unknown parameters and simplifying assumptions are also discussed.
2D Doppler backscattering using synthetic aperture microwave imaging of MAST edge plasmas
Authors: Thomas D.A. , Brunner K.J. , Freethy S.J. , Huang B.K. , Shevchenko V.F. , Vann R.G.L.
Published: January 2016

Doppler backscattering (DBS) is already established as a powerful diagnostic; its extension to 2D enables imaging of turbulence characteristics from an extended region of the cut-off surface. The Synthetic Aperture Microwave Imaging (SAMI) diagnostic has conducted proof-of-principle 2D DBS experiments of MAST edge plasma. SAMI actively probes the plasma edge using a wide (±40° vertical and horizontal) and tuneable (10–34.5 GHz) beam. The Doppler backscattered signal is digitised in vector form using an array of eight Vivaldi PCB antennas. This allows the receiving array to be focused in any direction within the field of view simultaneously to an angular range of 6–24° FWHM at 10–34.5 GHz. This capability is unique to SAMI and is a novel way of conducting DBS experiments. In this paper the feasibility of conducting 2D DBS experiments is explored. Initial observations of phenomena previously measured by conventional DBS experiments are presented; such as momentum injection from neutral beams and an abrupt change in power and turbulence velocity coinciding with the onset of H-mode. In addition, being able to carry out 2D DBS imaging allows a measurement of magnetic pitch angle to be made; preliminary results are presented. Capabilities gained through steering a beam using a phased array and the limitations of this technique are discussed.
A quick guide to light microscopy in cell biology
Authors: Thorn Kurt
Published: January 2016

Light microscopy is a key tool in modern cell biology. Light microscopy has several features that make it ideally suited for imaging biology in living cells: the resolution is well-matched to the sizes of subcellular structures, a diverse range of available fluorescent probes makes it possible to mark proteins, organelles, and other structures for imaging, and the relatively nonperturbing nature of light means that living cells can be imaged for long periods of time to follow their dynamics. Here I provide a brief introduction to using light microscopy in cell biology, with particular emphasis on factors to be considered when starting microscopy experiments.
Intermittency of energy dissipation in Alfvénic turbulence
Authors: Zhdankin Vladimir , Boldyrev Stanislav , Chen Christopher H. K.
Published: January 2016

We investigate the intermittency of energy dissipation in Alfvénic turbulence by considering the statistics of the coarse-grained energy dissipation rate, using direct measurements from numerical simulations of magnetohydrodynamic turbulence and surrogate measurements from the solar wind. We compare the results to the predictions of the log-normal and log-Poisson random cascade models. We find that, to a very good approximation, the log-normal model describes the probability density function for the energy dissipation over a broad range of scales, but does not accurately describe the scaling exponents of the moments. The log-Poisson model better describes the scaling exponents of the moments, while the comparison with the probability density function is not straightforward.
Seeing double: the frequency and detectability of double-peaked superluminous supernova light curves
Authors: Nicholl M. , Smartt S. J.
Published: January 2016

The discovery of double-peaked light curves in some superluminous supernovae (SLSNe) offers an important new clue to their origins. We examine the published photometry of all Type Ic SLSNe, finding 14 objects with constraining data or limits around the time of explosion. Of these, eight (including the already identified SN 2006oz and LSQ14bdq) show plausible flux excess at the earliest epochs, which deviate by 2–9σ from polynomial fits to the rising light curves. Simple scaling of the LSQ14bdq data show that they are all consistent with a similar double-peaked structure. PS1-10pm provides multicolour UV data indicating a temperature of Tbb = 25000 ± 5000 K during the early ‘bump’ phase. We find that a double-peak cannot be excluded in any of the other six objects, and that this behaviour may be ubiquitous. The homogeneity of the observed bumps is unexpected for interaction-powered models. Engine-powered models can explain the observations if all progenitors have extended radii or the central engine drives shock breakout emission several days after the supernova explosion.
Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Anatomic Variations in the Sacral Hiatus
Authors: Kim Dae Hyun , Park Jung Hyun , Lee Sang Chul
Published: January 2016

Study Design.

Prospective study

Objective.

The aim of this study was to evaluate variations in the sacral hiatus based on ultrasonographic images.

Summary of Background Data.

Caudal epidural injection is commonly used for the treatment of lower back pain, but blind injections commonly lead to mistakes made at the injection site due to anatomic variations in the sacral hiatus.

Methods.

A total of 339 patients with low back pain or sciatica were studied using a linear-array ultrasound transducer. The transducer was placed at the sacral cornua and the distance between the bilateral cornua and the width of the sacrococcygeal ligament between the bilateral cornua were measured in the transverse view. The transducer was also placed between the two cornua and the distance between the skin and posterior sacral bony surface was measured, including the depth of the subcutaneous fat, in the longitudinal view. The surface distance was then measured from the natal cleft to the apex of the sacral hiatus.

Results.

The mean distance between the bilateral cornua was 18.1 ± 3.2 mm and mean width of the sacrococcygeal ligament was 10.5 ± 2.6 mm. The mean diameter of the sacral canal was 6.8 ± 2.5 mm but 6 of 339 patients (1.8%) found less than 2 mm. The mean surface distance from the natal cleft to the apex of the sacral hiatus was 29.3 ± 12.3 mm. The distance between the sacral hiatus and the natal cleft ranged from −2.0 to 75.0 mm.

Conclusion.

We believe that the variations found in the surface distance from the natal cleft to the sacral hiatus are significant for caudal epidural injection. However, the other measurements may also have clinical importance in this area.

Level of Evidence: 3
Rapid and Specific Diagnosis of Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis by Immunostaining of Tissues and Aspirates With Anti-MPT64
Authors: Purohit Manju R. , Sviland Lisbet , Wiker Harald , Mustafa Tehmina
Published: January 2016

Background:

Extrapulmonary tuberculosis (EPTB) constitutes about 15% to 20% of all cases of tuberculosis (TB). The confirmation of EPTB has always been a challenge to laboratory personnel. We aim to evaluate the diagnostic potential of immunostaining with anti-MPT64 in various EPTB specimens.

Materials and Methods:

We studied a total of 51 TB cases and 38 non-TB control specimens comprising of fine-needle aspirates and formalin-fixed biopsies. These were investigated using a combination of the Ziehl-Neelsen method, the Lowenstein-Jensen culture, immunostaining with anti-MPT64 and anti-BCG, and nested-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for IS6110. Results of all the tests were compared using nested-PCR as the gold standard.

Results:

Diagnostic validation of immunostaining for anti-MPT64 was performed using nested-PCR as the gold standard. The overall sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for immunostaining with anti-MPT64 were 100%, 97%, 97%, and 100%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Immunostaining using anti-MPT64 is a rapid and sensitive method for establishing an early and specific diagnosis of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The technique is simple to be incorporated into routine pathology laboratories.
Distribution of Pancreatic Polypeptide–secreting Endocrine Cells in Nondiabetic and Diabetic Cases
Authors: Śliwińska-Mossoń Mariola , Milnerowicz Halina
Published: January 2016

The aim of the study was to demonstrate the effects of cigarette smoking and ongoing inflammation in chronic pancreatitis on the functioning of pancreatic polypeptide (PP)-secreting cells and to determine the relationship between the occurrence of an increased number of PP cells in the pancreas, the change in their location, and the intensity of their inflammatory changes in the course of pancreatitis and diabetes. Samples of tissues from healthy persons and from patients were verified histopathologically, and then PP was localized by immunohistochemical staining using the monoclonal anti-human PP antibody. The histopathologic evaluation of the hormone expression intensity in tissue sections was carried out using the semiquantitative method and was calculated with digital image analysis. The present study showed a very strong PP expression in the pancreatic tissue (especially in the head of the pancreas) derived from smoking patients with diabetes. The increase in the percentage of cells in the PP islets, between the acinar cells in smoking patients with diabetes and a statistically significant increase in the expression of PP, indicates a pancreatic endocrine dysfunction and suggests that cigarette smoking has a negative impact on the organ’s efficiency. Because of its properties, the PP appears to be a useful marker of the endocrine insufficiency of the pancreas and a specific prognostic parameter of developing diabetes due to chronic pancreatitis.
IMP3 Immunoreactivity is More Sensitive Than AMACR in Detecting Dysplastic Epithelium and Early Adenocarcinoma in Barrett Esophagus
Authors: Gadara Manoj R. , Gonzalez Maria , Cartun Richard W. , Ligato Saverio
Published: January 2016

Context:

α-methylacyl coenzyme A racemase (AMACR) and insulin-like growth factor-II mRNA-binding protein 3 (IMP3) are 2 markers helpful in detecting difficult cases of dysplasia in Barrett esophagus (BE). However, no comparison studies have been performed to assess their performance in the same patient population.

Objectives:

The aim of our study was to compare the immunohistochemical expression of IMP3 and AMACR in dysplastic lesions and early adenocarcinoma (EAC) arising in BE and evaluate their sensitivity and specificity.

Design:

A total of 98 cases [BE negative for dysplasia, n=24; indefinite for dysplasia (BE-IND), n=18; low-grade dysplasia (LGD), n=24; high-grade dysplasia (HGD), n=16; and EAC, n=16] were immunostained for AMACR and IMP3 and evaluated for the degree, the extent, and the intensity of staining.

Results:

No immunoreactivity for AMACR or IMP3 was observed in all 24 cases of BE negative for dyplasia. One of 18 (5.5%) cases of BE-IND was positive for IMP3, but all were negative for AMACR. AMACR and IMP3 were positive in 16.7% versus 41.7 % of the cases with BE-LGD, 25% versus 62.5% of BE-HGD, and 62.5% versus 93.7% of EAC, respectively. The sensitivity of AMACR and IMP3 for the detection of dysplasia in BE is 16.7% and 41.7% for LGD, 25% and 62.5% for HGD, and 62.5% and 93.7% in EAC, respectively. The specificity is 100% for both markers. In addition, a comparison of the intensity of reactivity shows a better result with IMP3 (36/98, 36.7%) than with AMACR (18/98, 18.4%) (P<0.001).

Conclusions:

IMP3 has a similar specificity, but a better sensitivity, intensity, and extent of reactivity in comparison with AMACR, and may be used as an alternative to AMACR, in support of the diagnosis of BE-dysplasia and EAC.
Analysing granulated brown sugar – panela – market in Western Honduras
Authors: Rodríguez-Entrena Macario , Salazar-Ordóñez Melania , Cordón-Pedregosa Rosa , Cardenas Jose L.
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– Starting from a territorial development project in Western Honduras (Copán and Ocotepeque), farmers aimed to increase and add value to agricultural production by producing and commercializing granulated brown sugar (panela). The Western Honduras sugar market was studied, from the supply and demand side, in order to particularly understand consumer preference which is considered a key to increase smallholder farmers’ income in rural areas.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research included a qualitative study by means of six visits for observation and data compilation to stores, four face-to-face open semi-structured interviews with store owners and a focus group with local producers to acquire a global picture of the main regional sugar market characteristics from the supply side. Moreover a quantitative analysis applying a Choice Experiment to study consumer preferences was performed acquiring higher knowledge from the demand side.

Findings

– First, it was found that Honduras sugar market could be experiencing monopolistic practices and white sugar to 9 lempiras per pound was the most popular product according to the qualitative study. Second, for consumers who knew dulce de panela, granulated brown sugar was preferred over refined white sugar. Consumers who had a high level of education, came from rural areas, considered brown sugar to be healthier and read nutritional information were more prone to consume granulated brown sugar. On the other hand, the estimated selling price was around 16 lempiras/pound, but consumers were willing to pay at the most 11.59 lempiras/pound. Nevertheless, market share simulation showed a market niche to comercialize granulated brown sugar – panela.

Originality/value

– This research is of academics, farmers and policy makers value. There are no studies analyzing consumer behavior regarding granulated brown sugar in Honduras. The results provide information about the previous steps which need to be given for smallholders in order to commercialize this novelty product; and it stressed the necessity of highlighting health claims on panela which would involve political actions.
Edible insects and young adults in a north-east Italian city an exploratory study
Authors: Balzan Stefania , Fasolato Luca , Maniero Serena , Novelli Enrico
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the readiness of young Italian people to consume insects and the psychosocial determinants associated with edible insect consumption, in order to evaluate whether insect-based food could be an alternative food source.

Design/methodology/approach

– An explorative study was conducted, using focus group interviews as the technique for data collection. In total, 32 consumers, aged 20-35 years took part in five focus group interviews.

Findings

– Significant determinants comprised appearance, farming and sustainability. Participants’ willingness to eat insect-based food is dependent on the form in which the products are presented to them. Crustaceans were frequently mentioned as a comparison in terms of distaste. Lack of practice in preparation was a major barrier to consumption. To expand consumption participants suggested an active role for public health institutions. Even though with some uncertainty, there are some people prepared to consume insects.

Research limitations/implications

– Due to the restricted size of the sample survey, the findings are considered as exploratory research. Further investigation is required among other young adults in order to delineate promotional strategies.

Originality/value

– There is a lack of information regarding the willingness to consume edible insects in Italy. Due to the restricted size of the sample survey, the findings are considered as exploratory research. Further investigation is required among other young adults in order to delineate promotional strategies.
Gaps and barriers along the North Carolina agri-food value chain
Authors: Kline Carol S. , Joyner Leah Elizabeth , Kirchoff Jon F , Crawford Alleah , Jilcott Pitts Stephanie , Wall-Bassett Elizabeth , Gurganus Christine , Dunning Rebecca
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to formulate an exhaustive list of the issues, gaps, and barriers at each level of the agri-food value chain in North Carolina (NC), and second, to identify the issues of greatest importance to its members.

Design/methodology/approach

– This research employed the Delphi technique in two stages of input. The first round of input was designed to create a comprehensive list of issues for each of nine “stages” of the agri-food value chain. In round two, the issues were prioritized.

Findings

– The top ten responses of each stage were aggregated into themes that represent the most critical issues identified by respondents: connectedness within the value chain, access to markets and marketing, affordability/availability of food and food distribution, farm profitability, societal awareness, and education about healthy, local food, and supporting institutions.

Originality/value

– The findings could be used by practitioners to inspire innovation in food-related products, programs, processes, organization, and marketing. The findings can help farmers, institutions, food distributors, policy makers, and other members of the agri-food value chain to make decisions about food distribution and access in NC and in other states facing similar issues and circumstances. The findings of this research also have further reaching implications, such as the connectivity of members along the agri-food value chain, the impact of a strong agri-food value chain on agritourism and the potential value of state marketing initiatives.
Postharvest losses of cabbages from retail to consumer and the socio-economic and environmental impacts
Authors: Munhuweyi Karen , Opara Umezuruike Linus , Sigge Gunnar
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to quantify the incidence of postharvest losses of cabbage at retail purchase and during consumer simulated storage.

Design/methodology/approach

– Physical losses, changes in quality and nutritional value were determined using produce from three different retail outlets in South Africa. Economic losses and the environment impact associated with postharvest losses of cabbage were estimated.

Findings

– After seven days in storage, high incidence of postharvest losses occurred, ranging from 12 per cent under cold storage to 46 per cent under ambient conditions. These losses were equivalent to over R10 million (∼US$1 million) per annum, while the equivalent wasted fresh water was estimated to be sufficient to meet the needs of over 217,000 per annum.

Research limitations/implications

– Study was only conducted in one town and to get the real impact of the losses the research should cover a wider coverage area.

Originality/value

– Cabbage is one of the most widely consumed vegetables globally and this is the first research effort to quantify the magnitude of postharvest losses. A multi-parameter approach was applied to estimate the socio-economic and environmental impacts of losses.
The impact of communication channels on mobile banking adoption
Authors: Tran Huong Thi Thanh , Corner James
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the distinct effects of different communication channels, particularly interpersonal networks, social media, and mass media on customer beliefs and usage intention in a mobile banking (MB) context.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study employed a combination of both qualitative and quantitative research approaches with an exploratory sequential research design in two major phases: focus groups; and a large-scale survey among 183 New Zealand young adults.

Findings

– The most significant influential factor of usage intention was perceived usefulness, followed by perceived credibility and perceived costs. Face-to-face communication with bank staff and close acquaintances was perceived as the most reliable and persuasive sources of banking-related information. Moreover, mass channels were considered to be more important and trustworthy than social media in the MB sector. The research results revealed that the current status of MB diffusion in New Zealand is in the latter stages (Late Majority and Laggards) of the innovation diffusion cycle.

Practical implications

– In light of the research findings, bank marketers can make the right decisions on marketing actions to promote MB effectively as well as develop appropriate communication policies to speed up the consumer decision process. Researchers and allied industries (e.g. mobile commercial services) could also gain benefits from applying these results to understand the impact of communication channels on consumer perceptions and behaviours towards new technology acceptance.

Originality/value

– The research outcomes have served to broaden the knowledge into the distinguishing influences of major communication channels on customers’ beliefs and intention to adopt new banking services.
Students reach beyond expectations with cafeteria style grading
Authors: Arendt Anne , Trego Angela , Allred Jonathan
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to show that cafeteria style grading actually provides a course structure which encourages students to go beyond expectations.

Design/methodology/approach

– Three instructors offered a total of 13 sections of a general education science class called “Fundamentals of Technology” from January 2012 to December 2013 using a cafeteria-style grading method. This means students get to choose to do those assignments, quizzes or tests that appeal to their own learning interests or styles and do not need to complete all the assignments to get an A grade. Rather, they complete those assignments desired in order to earn the applicable points. This paper researches the combined results of over 400 students to assess the success of cafeteria style grading.

Findings

– These instructors found that half the students overall obtain an A grade and 9 percent of all students actually go above and beyond the requirements of an A grade by at least 5 percent. Actually, about 4 percent of students complete more than is required by an additional 10 percent or more.

Originality/value

– Cafeteria style grading is a little researched methodology for student assessment. The research shows that cafeteria style grading actually provides a course structure which encourages students to go beyond expectations.
Exploring gender harassment among university teachers and researchers
Authors: Muhonen Tuija
Published: January 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the prevalence of gender harassment and how it is related to different organisational factors, ill-health and job satisfaction among women and men working as university teachers and researchers.

Design/methodology/approach

– A web questionnaire was conducted in a university college in South Sweden. The final sample consisted of 322 participants, 186 women and 136 men.

Findings

– The results showed that gender harassment was more prevalent among women than men, and among senior lecturers and professors than lecturers. Gender harassment was associated with high job demands, less fair leadership style of the immediate manager and job dissatisfaction for both women and men. For women, there was also an association between gender harassment, ill-health and gender of the immediate manager. For men, poorer social organisational climate was related to gender harassment, but contrary to women, gender harassment was not related to the gender of the immediate manager.

Research limitations/implications

– Even though the research was conducted only in one university, the results imply that gender harassment can have negative consequences for teachers and researchers. As the immediate manager’s leadership style seems to be associated with the occurrence of gender harassment, universities should take this into consideration in their leadership programs.

Originality/value

– The paper highlights gender harassment, a subtle form of sexual harassment, among university teachers and researchers.