bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Global Trade in Phosphate Rock within a Partial Equilibrium Framework
Authors: Khabarov Nikolay , Obersteiner Michael
Published: May 2018

Against the background of combined population and consumption growth, the global sustainable development agenda foresees limits to the expansion of agricultural land. The application of fertilizer is necessary to replenish soil nutrients and keep crop yields high. Phosphate rock (PR) is the main raw material for the production of commercial phosphorus fertilizers. The international PR market is highly concentrated in terms of reserves and supply: a few countries export the major share of all PR traded globally. As many countries are highly dependent on phosphorus import, the modeling of international PR trade and thus exploration of what-if scenarios is of great interest. For modeling purposes, we employ the partial equilibrium framework. The model is driven by a subset of the United Nations (UN) Comtrade database at a yearly time step spanning the period 1997–2016. The only inputs to the model are slope coefficients of demand–supply curves. The transportation costs are internalized by creating a costs ensemble on the basis of historical data. While reasonably sensitive to its inputs, the model fits very well to reported global annual traded quantities and prices and considerably improves per-trade-partner quantity estimates as compared to simple period-averaging approaches. This is the first application of a partial equilibrium approach to global PR market modeling, including validation.
Symmetry Breakings in Dual-Core Systems with Double-Spot Localization of Nonlinearity
Authors: Zegadlo Krzysztof B. , Hung Nguyen Viet , Ramaniuk Aleksandr , Trippenbach Marek , Malomed Boris A.
Published: May 2018

We introduce a dual-core system with double symmetry, one between the cores, and one along each core, imposed by the spatial modulation of local nonlinearity in the form of two tightly localized spots, which may be approximated by a pair of ideal delta-functions. The analysis aims to investigate effects of spontaneous symmetry breaking in such systems. Stationary one-dimensional modes are constructed in an implicit analytical form. These solutions include symmetric ones, as well as modes with spontaneously broken inter-core and along-the-cores symmetries. Solutions featuring the simultaneous (double) breaking of both symmetries are produced too. In the model with the ideal delta-functions, all species of the asymmetric modes are found to be unstable. However, numerical consideration of a two-dimensional extension of the system, which includes symmetric cores with a nonzero transverse thickness, and the nonlinearity-localization spots of a small finite size, produces stable asymmetric modes of all the types, realizing the separate breaking of each symmetry, and states featuring simultaneous (double) breaking of both symmetries.
Detection of Specific ZIKV IgM in Travelers Using a Multiplexed Flavivirus Microsphere Immunoassay
Authors: Taylor Carmel T. , Mackay Ian M. , McMahon Jamie L. , Wheatley Sarah L. , Moore Peter R. , Finger Mitchell J. , Hewitson Glen R. , Moore Frederick A.
Published: May 2018

Zika virus (ZIKV) has spread widely in the Pacific and recently throughout the Americas. Unless detected by RT-PCR, confirming an acute ZIKV infection can be challenging. We developed and validated a multiplexed flavivirus immunoglobulin M (IgM) microsphere immunoassay (flaviMIA) which can differentiate ZIKV-specific IgM from that due to other flavivirus infections in humans. The flaviMIA bound 12 inactivated flavivirus antigens, including those from ZIKV and yellow fever virus (YFV), to distinct anti-flavivirus antibody coupled beads. These beads were used to interrogate sera from patients with suspected ZIKV infection following travel to relevant countries. FlaviMIA results were validated by comparison to the ZIKV plaque reduction neutralization test (PRNT). The results highlight the complexity of serological ZIKV diagnosis, particularly in patients previously exposed to or vaccinated against other flaviviruses. We confirmed 99 patients with ZIKV infection by a combination of RT-PCR and serology. Importantly, ZIKV antibodies could be discriminated from those ascribed to other flavivirus infections. Serological results were sometimes confounded by the presence of pre-existing antibodies attributed to previous flavivirus infection or vaccination. Where RT-PCR results were negative, testing of appropriately timed paired sera was necessary to demonstrate seroconversion or differentiation of recent from past infection with or exposure to ZIKV.
Simplified Direct Water Footprint Model to Support Urban Water Management
Authors: Fialkiewicz Wieslaw , Burszta-Adamiak Ewa , Kolonko-Wiercik Anna , Manzardo Alessandro , Loss Andrea , Mikovits Christian , Scipioni Antonio
Published: May 2018

Water resources conservation corresponding to urban growth is an increasing challenge for European policy makers. Water footprint (WF) is one of the methods to address this challenge. The objective of this study was to develop a simplified model to assess the WF of direct domestic and non-domestic water use within an urban area and to demonstrate its effectiveness in supporting new urban water management strategies and solutions. The new model was tested on three Central European urban areas with different characteristics i.e., Wroclaw (Poland), Innsbruck (Austria), and Vicenza (Italy). Obtained WFs varied from 291 dm3/(day∙capita) in Wroclaw, 551 dm3/(day∙capita) in Vicezna to 714 dm3/(day∙capita) in Innsbruck. In addition, WF obtained with the proposed model for the city of Vicenza was compared with a more complex approach. The results proved the model to be robust in providing reasonable results using a small amount of data.
Effects of Land Cover Change on Urban Floods and Rainwater Harvesting: A Case Study in Sharjah, UAE
Authors: Shanableh Abdallah , Al-Ruzouq Rami , Yilmaz Abdullah Gokhan , Siddique Mohsin , Merabtene Tarek , Imteaz Monzur Alam
Published: May 2018

In this study, multi-temporal satellite images combined with rainfall data and field observations were used to assess the spatial and temporal changes in urban flooding and urban water harvesting potential in the coastal city of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates (UAE) during the period from 1976 to 2016. During the study period, the population increased by approximately 14-fold with about a 4-fold increase in built areas. Being in a hot, dry region with average rainfall of about 100 mm/year, the city did not invest in a comprehensive drainage infrastructure. As a result, the frequency, extent and risk associated with urban floods increased significantly. The expansion of built areas progressively increased the impervious land cover in the city, decreasing the minimum precipitation required to generate runoff by approximately 32% and significantly increasing the runoff coefficient. In parallel to rapid urbanization, the urban rainwater harvesting potential significantly increased over 1976–2016. Urban flood maps were generated using three thematic factors: excess rain, land elevation and land slope. The flood maps were confirmed by locating urban flood locations in the field using GPS. This study demonstrates the impact of urbanization through assessing the relationship between urbanization, runoff, local floods and rainwater harvesting potential in Sharjah and provides a basis for developing sustainable urban storm water management practices for the city and similar cities.
The Cell versus the System: Standardization challenges for electricity storage devices
Authors: Bossche P. , Van Mulders F. , Verbrugge B. , Omar N. , Culcu H. , Van Mierlo J.
Published: May 2018

The introduction of new electricity storage components such as electric double-layer capacitors or lithium batteries creates the necessity for relevant and reliable standards to assess components’ performance and safety. Technical committees within international standardization bodies such as IEC and ISO have thus increased the intensity of standardization work on the matter. The paper will describe current work on the matter, concentrating on the characteristic action points where standardization work is needed.
Front-and-Rear-Wheel-Independent-Drive-Type Electric Vehicle (FRID EV) with Compatible Driving Performance and Safety
Authors: Mutoh Nobuyoshi
Published: May 2018

This paper focuses on a front-and-rear-wheel-independent-drive-type-electric vehicle (FRID EV) which is being developed as the next generation EV with ideal characteristics of driving performance and safety. The FRID EV development work has included studying the driving performance and safety of all types of propulsion systems. Since the FRID EV has propulsion systems which can control the driving and braking torques of the front and rear wheels independently, various outstanding and indispensable functions are produced. Three functions which EVs developed until now could not have are shown here analytically and experimentally. The first is the failsafe function under which vehicles continue running without any unexpected sudden stops, even if one of the propulsion systems fails. The second is the function for performing efficient acceleration and deceleration on all roads by suitably distributing the driving or braking torques to the front and rear wheels according to the road surface conditions. The third is the function for ensuring safe running on bad roads, i. e., low µ-roads like frozen roads, by simultaneously controlling slip ratios of the front and rear wheels in consideration of load movement. These are functions are unique to the FRID EV and they have not be realized previously in any gasoline engine-powered car, hybrid car or conventional electric vehicle.
Overview of the Taiwan EV National Promotion Program Driven by Clean Zone Policy
Authors: Shu Jet , Wu Jim , Wang James , Jiang Jinn-Feng , Feng Lin , Wang Yung-Miao , Kun Chang
Published: May 2018

There have more than 14 million units of motorcycle in Taiwan, and the motorcycle’s exhaust emission has become one of the causes of air pollution in urban areas. To improve the air quality in urban areas and also seek the business opportunity from the new EV industry, the Taiwanese government starts regulating sales of gasoline motorcycle in 2009 to replace the less competitive 50cc engine motorcycles by e-Scooter of the light electric vehicles (LEV). The government also earmarks NT$1.6 billion (US$49.7 million) over the next four years to subsidize buyers of 2-wheelers electric scooters (2W e-Scooter) with the feature of the advanced Li-Ion battery system. As part of this effort, the Industrial Development Bureau (IDB) of Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) formulated standards for e-Scooter’s performance and safety to bring up 8,000 units of 2W e-Scooter in 2009, and to 100,000 by the end of 2012. This is the first phase of the EV national program, and next phase will be focus on the EV fleet promotion driven by the clean zone policy to be discussed hereafter. As most of the experts predicted, EV won’t be popular in next few years till the industry finds the good cost-performance battery solution. Hence, the government should lead the policy like the zero exhaust emission zone, clean zone, to demonstrate the clean and efficient transportation by employing EV solutions. The demonstration from the e-Scooter of LEV, utility van, and mid-size bus will accumulate the fleet operation experiences including the usage scenarios, the effectiveness of the business model, and the product performance. These are crucial for the participated industry to establish the products’ interface and standards, for the local government to build up the charging infrastructure system to promote an EV as a convenient and efficient transportation system, and also for industry to develop a series of the competitive EV niche products in Taiwan for the global markets. The in-depth discussion of this clean zone plot will be discussed in this paper.
DEVELOPMENT OF HONDA FCX
Authors: Takano Jun , Kaji Hayato , Yoshida Hiromichi , Nagoshi Kentaro
Published: May 2018

Honda has been researching and developing fuel cell to resolve issues we face such as air pollution and energy conservation. In October 2003, Honda announced the original fuel cell stack, and in November 2004 delivered the Honda FCX to New York State. In addition, Honda developed FCX CLARITY that is applied with technology of next generation fuel cell system and the body. And we started to deliver the FCX CLARITY for an individual user as a lease sale in July 2008.Honda could get various knowledge and experience about fuel cell stack by running FCX at the various regions, and it becomes clear about some problems of durability. This paper describes the durability of the FCX fuel cell stack.
Promotion Strategy of Electric Scooters in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Bing-Ming , Suen Shiow-Huey , Jang Jason
Published: May 2018

Owing to the GHG emission and fossil fuel consumption made by the vast amount of motorcycles, Taiwan Government raised the strategy to promote a hundred thousand electric scooters on road in four years. Electric scooter nowadays becomes much acceptable and marketable than ever by adopting detachable lithium-ion battery pack which makes the vehicle lighter to handle, and not necessarily rely on charging infrastructure. However, due to the safety issue of lithium-ion battery, the IDB (Industrial Development Bureau) of MOEA in Taiwan draws up a subsidization program that the detachable lithium-ion battery pack is mandatory required and need to pass safety test of TES-0B-01-01 (Lithium-ion battery pack test method of Taiwan Electric Scooter, based on BATSO-01) which includes electrical, mechanical and environmental tests. In parallel, the performance shall also meet target value set for different categories of vehicle.
Potential reductions of CO2 emissions due to the landside accessibility of Brussels Airport through adapted policy measures and use of electric vehicles
Authors: Matheys J. , Sergeant N. , Timmermans J.-M. , Boureima F.-S. , Wynen V. , Van Mierlo J.
Published: May 2018

Besides its airborne operations, the landside accessibility of an airport also induces a burden on the environment. In this paper, the current environmental situation of the passenger and employee transport to and from Brussels Airport is analyzed. The different landside access modes to the airport are inventoried and their shares of traffic and emissions are illustrated. To reduce CO2 and other emissions, a cluster of measures (consisting of a transition towards hybrid and battery electric vehicles, a modal shift away from internal combustion engine passenger cars and some accompanying political interventions) needs to take place. An estimation of the current CO2 emissions related to the landside accessibility of the airport is performed and a set of potential improvements, including the introduction of hybrid and battery electric vehicles, are described. It appears that, especially when they are combined, the suggested measures can save over 30% percent of the CO2 emissions due to the landside mobility of the airport.
A Comparative Study of 12 Electrically Assisted Bicycles
Authors: Timmermans Jean-Marc , Matheys Julien , Lataire Philippe , Van Mierlo Joeri , Cappelle Jan
Published: May 2018

A sample of 12 electric bicycles offered on the Belgian and Italian markets was the subject of a comparative quality and performance study. This sample contains electric bicycles of different price categories and with different drive technologies. This paper describes the test program that was used for the study and reveals the differences that were observed between the test samples. The electric bicycles were tested on the road in the Brussels region. An appreciation of the electric traction offered by the bicycle in different situations was given: electrical assistance at start, on a flat road, when riding uphill and when decelerating or braking with the bicycle. The vehicle’s driving range under real driving conditions, was determined for the different electric bicycles. Also the electricity consumption when recharging the traction battery was measured and allowed to make an analysis of the cost for driving an electric bicycle. An environmental analysis (well-to-wheel) was made of the electric bicycles and put against the environmental impact of a thermal moped and an electric scooter.
Equivalent Circuit Analysis of Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motor Considering Magnetic saturation
Authors: Jung Jae-Woo , Lee Jeong-Jong , Kwon Soon-O , Hong Jung-Pyo , Member Senior , Kim IEEE
Published: May 2018

Generally, design of the parts of an automobile is restricted by space especially components assembled in the engine room. Therefore traction motor for hybrid electric vehicle is designed by interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM). The IPMSM has high power density and efficiency because it generates not only magnetic torque but also reluctance torque. However, IPMSM is difficult to design due to magnetic saturation and lots of analysis methods are required. Equivalent circuit analysis (ECA) is one of the design methods of IPMSM and it is generally used for characteristics analysis. Using the ECA, we can calculate the characteristics quickly. However, ECA can not estimate line current exactly because of saturation of magnetic core and flux weakening control. In order to perform the ECA exactly, calculation of parameters such as phase resistance, d- and q-axis inductance and no-load linkage flux are important. The phase resistance is simply calculated by using linear equation which is geometrical problem. However, dand q-axis inductance is nonlinear problem which is varied with current level and current angle. Therefore, nonlinear finite element analysis is necessary. Conventional ECA is considered only d- and q-axis inductance profile but no-load linkage flux is considered as constant value. However, no-load linkage flux of IPMSM is also varied according to current level and current angle similar with d- and q-axis inductance profile. Therefore, no-load linkage flux profile which is calculated case of current level and current angle should be considered in the ECA. In this paper, the calculation method of no-load linkage flux profile is introduced firstly and then characteristic of specific model is analyzed with proposed method. The result of line current from improved ECA is compared with experimental result and result of conventional ECA.
Electric vehicles – A model based assessment of future market prospects and environmental impacts
Authors: Mock Peter , Hülsebusch Dirk , Ungethüm Jörg , Schmid Stephan
Published: May 2018

Assessing future market prospects and environmental impacts of electric vehicles requires taking into account the competitive situation with regard to established conventional vehicle propulsion technologies. The Modelica library AlternativeVehicles is used to analyse energy consumption of battery (BEV), extended range electric (EREV) as well as fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles (FCHEV). Costs of technical measures for enhancing conventional vehicles, as well as cost curves for batteries and fuel cells are assessed. Using a newly developed model, VECTOR21, customer purchase decision is modeled to derive future market shares of propulsion technologies and fuels, taking into account energy consumption, energy prices and taxation as relevant influencing factors. Two different scenarios demonstrate the dependency of future market prospects on a set of general conditions. With electricity and hydrogen being produced from renewable energy sources, as well as implementation of strict regulations regarding CO2, BEV and FCHEV could achieve a market share of up to approx. 65 % on the German new passenger car market by 2030. CO2 emissions of the vehicle stock could be reduced by approx. 65 % in this scenario. In a less ambitious scenario a market share of approx. 20 % is seen for BEV, with no application of FCHEV in the long run. CO2 emissions of the vehicle stock could be reduced by approx. 40 % in this scenario.
Adaptation and optimization of a linear generator for a hybrid vehicle concept
Authors: Rinderknecht Frank , Herzog Hans-Georg
Published: May 2018

This publication deals with the optimization of a linear generator (LG) intended for use in a hybrid power train design for a vehicle. The system in which the LG is integrated is called free-piston linear generator (FPLG). The free-piston linear generator is able to convert chemical energy into electrical energy by using a combustion process. By optimization of the LG it is possible to reduce the fuel consumption significantly. In this publication the function and the characteristics of the free-piston linear generator will be explained first. Then the surrounding system and its effect on the FPLG and the linear generator will be pictured. This is important for the understanding of the adaptation and optimization of the linear generator to the system. After this the way of the optimization and adaptation process is pictured. It is based on a 2-D and a 3-D FEA model which is controlled by a database software. After the presentation of the calculated results a comparison between the calculation and a physically existing linear generator is presented. In the next chapter the expected fuel consumption based on a systemsimulation is illustrated. At the end of the publication a summary is given.
Approach of a Predictive, Cybernetic Power Distribution Management
Authors: Kohler Tom , Froeschl Joachim , Bertram Christiane , Buecherl Dominik , Herzog Hans-Georg
Published: May 2018

In recent years the trend of an increasing electrification was observable in automotive engineering. That yields an increase in both the total power and the short-term power peaks. Because of the high currents, it is becoming difficult to guarantee voltage stability in the 12 V power net and the danger of voltage instability increases. This paper deals with the development of a holistic system approach in order to actively balance the power distribution in the vehicles power net. In contrast to other solutions, the system is doing without additional components and topological modifications. However, the mobile environment makes some demands to the power distribution management system like the short resources, lack of fast real-time communication, or the complex power distribution topology of the wiring harness. Within this work it is pointed out that a cybernetic approach is well-suited to the application in vehicles. Transferring the ideas of other cybernetic management systems, for instance in business administration, to a vehicle’s energy and power management results in principles as the detachment of object and steering layer, the introduction of a hierarchy, the principle of subsidiarity, and the development of an interaction interface between the system and its environment. By using these principles, the complex power distribution management task can be managed by lean and efficient systemswell-suited for the application in vehicles.
Crashworthiness of Electric Vehicles
Authors: Sakurai Toshiaki , Suzuki Takanobu
Published: May 2018

This paper describes the crashworthiness of electric vehicles when the vehicle has alterations from a gasoline engine to an electric motor. The crashworthiness is dependent on the crushable length of the frame and the center of gravity. It is presumed that the transfer of the center of gravity has the disadvantage in a crash.
Design of Power System Control in Hybrid Electric Vehicle
Authors: Liu Van
Published: May 2018

This paper proposes a design of power system control in the hybrid electric vehicle. It adopts the isolated DC/DC power converter as the front-end fuel cell and Lithium-ion battery to supply constant voltage. By micro-controller to detect the hybrid power output, and the low-pressure hydrogen storage temperature, and the adjustment of the power output ratio to provide the energy for loading balance. The results can obtain the overall performance of electric vehicle. It is important to avoid the excessive usage of hydrogen fuel which causes the phenomenon of storage tank freezing and fuel cell or Lithium-ion batteries abnormal situation. Display the working data of hybrid power system can achieve the capability of instant surveillance. For the loading under consideration, the fuel cell and Lithium-ion battery can supply stable voltage output. Copyright Form of EVS25.
Feasibility of a Pan-Canadian Network of DC Fast Charging Stations for EVs
Authors: Ducharme Pierre , Kargas Catherine
Published: May 2018

In the Summer and Fall 2015, the authors studied the business case for investing in a Direct Current Fast Charging (DCFC) infrastructure in Canada for the benefit of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment. This paper summarizes our research findings in four areas: Cost of DCFCs, expected utilization of DCFCs, benefits and co-benefits of DCFC stations, evaluation of the business case for DCFCs across Canada.
Two-motor, Two-axle Traction System for Full Electric Vehicle
Authors: Rossi Claudio , Pontara Davide , Bertoldi Marco , Casadei Domenico
Published: May 2018

The paper deals with the description of a low voltage, two-battery pack, two-motor, two-axle powertrain configuration for a full performance compact electric car. It gives an analytical method for selecting the two different drives for front and rear axle, a performance and economical evaluation criteria for choosing the low voltage active components and gives details about the power stage layout of the traction inverter.
Results of Plug-In Hybrid Medium-Duty Truck Demonstration and Evaluation Program
Authors: Kosowski Mark , Dunckley Jamie , Bowermaster Dan
Published: May 2018

The Plug-In Hybrid Medium-Duty Truck Demonstration and Evaluation Program was sponsored by the United States Department of Energy (DOE) using American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) funding as well as the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD). The purpose of the program was to develop a path to mitigate plug-in hybrid vehicle technology to medium-duty vehicles by demonstrating and evaluating in diverse applications. The program allows the fleets to develop interest in the technology. The 62 participants have deployed these vehicles into the field with their operators to achieve real—life experience with the vehicles in 23 different states. A total of 296 vehicles were delivered to the field prior to July 2015. This paper provides the results from the analysis of the data generated by these vehicles.
Lyn Okse: An Electric Utility Vehicle with Off-Highway Capability
Authors: Leonhardt Eric , James Paul
Published: May 2018

Designed by students and faculty at Western Washington University’s Vehicle Research Institute, the Lyn Okse (“Lightning Ox”) electric vehicle targets the needs of the campus Facilities Management organization’s grounds crews, maintenance and skilled-trades workers. The vehicle combines Neighborhood Electric Vehicle capability with a large cockpit to encourage the replacement of US Department of Transportation Class 1 trucks (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating less than 2679 kg) while reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Vehicle user interface design was developed in collaboration with Facilities staff using student conducted focal follows and ethnography. User experience aimed to identify current use, current vehicle limitations and imagined future use in three contexts; loading, driving and worksite operation. The two passenger vehicle features a cab-forward design to limit wheelbase length to less than 2489 mm while maintaining a minimum 1829 mm cargo bed length and an 8 m curb-to-curb turning circle.
Influence of In-Wheel Motors Weight on a Swing-Arm Dynamic, Evaluation of Ride Comfort and Handling
Authors: Brest Jean-S´ebastien , Gimbert Yoann
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a model aiming at describing the influence of an additional mass on an urban vehicle. The impact of an in-wheel motor on the road holding performances and vehicle comfortableness, for which criteria have been defined, has been studied on a swingarm and compared to a standard configuration (vertical suspension). Simulations have been carried out using Matlab Simulink and a comparison has been made using several obstacles as well as different types of roads.
Winning Approach: Selection Criteria for Competitive Battery Powered Racing Vehicles
Authors: Håkansson Eva , Dubé Bill
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a systematic approach for optimal selection of race discipline and race format to develop a battery powered racing vehicle that is competitive with internal combustion vehicles. The main limitation for battery powered vehicles is the mass of the battery that grows directly with race duration, and the break-even point is currently around 10 minutes. However, battery powered vehicles have other advantages such as indifference to altitude, superior traction control, and moldability of the drivetrain for aerodynamic advantage or for optimal weight distribution, making them highly competitive in certain disciplines such as land speed racing and hill climb.
Reducing the Peak-to-average Power Ratio for Electric Vehicles using Hybrid Energy Storage Systems (HESS)
Authors: Sun Li , Zhang Nong
Published: May 2018

In this paper, a simple but innovative algorithm is developed to effectively reduce peak-to-average power ratio for electric vehicles powered by battery pack (BP) alone under real-life load fluctuation. A convertersupercapacitor pack (SP) coupled Hybrid Energy Storage topology upon which such algorithm is deployed is proposed to divert excess power that would otherwise damage BP into SP via power converter (PC) in a regulated fashion. Along with the algorithm itself, a simplified HESS model is also developed in Matlab to validate such algorithm and simulation results prove its effectiveness across various real-life drive cycles with significantly extended battery lifecycle.
Modeling the Demand for Renting Electric Vehicles in Canada: A Stated Preference Choice Approach
Authors: Dimatulac Terence , Maoh Hanna
Published: May 2018

The introduction of electric vehicles (EV) is considered by many as an effective solution to alleviate petroleum dependency; however, the number of EVs in the current market remains scarce despite of its potential benefits. Many studies have been conducted to identify and assess various factors that significantly affect EV ownership. In contrary, little has been done regarding the potential EV adoption for commercial fleets. This paper addresses this limitation by focusing on rental vehicles. It is found that rental cost, vehicle attributes (e.g. maximum range and recharging time), and attitudinal statements have significant effect on EV rental choice.
Robust midgap states in band-inverted junctions under electric and magnetic fields
Authors: Díaz-Fernández Álvaro , del Valle Natalia , Domínguez-Adame Francisco
Published: May 2018

Several IV–VI semiconductor compounds made of heavy atoms, such as Pb1−xSnxTe, may undergo band-inversion at the L point of the Brillouin zone upon variation of their chemical composition. This inversion gives rise to topologically distinct phases, characterized by a change in a topological invariant. In the framework of the k·p theory, band-inversion can be viewed as a change of sign of the fundamental gap. A two-band model within the envelope-function approximation predicts the appearance of midgap interface states with Dirac cone dispersions in band-inverted junctions, namely, when the gap changes sign along the growth direction. We present a thorough study of these interface electron states in the presence of crossed electric and magnetic fields, the electric field being applied along the growth direction of a band-inverted junction. We show that the Dirac cone is robust and persists even if the fields are strong. In addition, we point out that Landau levels of electron states lying in the semiconductor bands can be tailored by the electric field. Tunable devices are thus likely to be realizable, exploiting the properties studied herein.
URBANISTIKOS PROFESINIO DISKURSO RAIDA SPECIALIZUOTOJE SPAUDOJE TARPUKARIO LIETUVOS RESPUBLIKOJE (1918–1940) / EVOLUTION OF THE PROFESSIONAL DISCOURSE OF URBAN PLANNING IN THE SPECIALIZED PRESS IN THE INTERWAR LITHUANIAN REPUBLIC (1918–1940)
Authors: LAURINAITIS Paulius Tautvydas
Published: May 2018

Urban planning in the interwar Lithuanian republic is still lacking a wider research. National school of the discipline was developing in difficult conditions, without most of the needed resources. A theoretical and critical basis was developing parallelly, which was in search of it’s own ideal model of urban planning. Article looks at the genesis of theoretical aspect of urban planning in the interwar specialized periodical press, reviews different periods of it’s development and tries to find the main problems it faced and the ideals it favored. Throughout the research the development of urban planning theory is split into four distinct chronological periods, that correlated with physical processes. The big break was the new generation of those interested in urban planning – the 30’s saw emergence of criticism of chaotic development processes that were taking place in Lithuanian cities and also the new ideas that were reminiscence of theoretical tendencies of contemporary Europe. A wider form of theoretical discourse has formed until the start of occupations, that could be seen as a rudimentary polemic field of national school of urban planning. The idea of garden city can be seen as a constant of the whole interwar period, which, while varied from author to author, nevertheless always included the main, simplified elements of the simplified concept.
Antenatal Deworming and Materno-Perinatal Outcomes in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Akpan Ubong Bassey , Asibong Udeme , Okpara Henry Chima , Monjok Emmanuel , Etuk Saturday
Published: May 2018

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that administration of anthelmintic drugs in pregnancy can reduce the incidence of maternal anaemia; however, data on other maternal and perinatal outcomes are limited.AIM: This study was therefore conducted to evaluate the direct impact of mass deworming on delivery and perinatal outcome.MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 560 healthy pregnant women in their second trimester were randomised to receive a single dose of oral mebendazole (500 mg) and placebo. Each participant received the standard dose of iron supplement and malaria prophylaxis. They were followed up to delivery and immediate postpartum period to document the possible impact on maternal and perinatal outcomes.RESULTS: The prevalence of anaemia at term, 37 weeks gestation and above, among the treatment arm was 12.6% compared with 29.9% in the placebo arm (p < 0.001). Caesarean section rates was higher in the treated group and the placebo (p = 0.047).There were no statistically significant differences in incidences of postpartum haemorrhage (p = 0.119), Puerperal, pyrexia (p = 0.943), low birth weight (p = 0.556) asphyxia (p = 0.706) and perinatal death (p = 0.621).CONCLUSION: Presumptive deworming during the antenatal period can significantly reduce the incidence of peripartum anaemia. However, more studies may be needed to prove any positive perinatal outcome.
Notulae to the Italian flora of algae, bryophytes, fungi and lichens: 3
Authors: Ravera Sonia , Cogoni Annalena , Vizzini Alfredo , Aleffi Michele , Assini Silvia , Barcella Matteo , von Brackel Wolfgang , Caporale Stefania , Fačkovcová Zuzana , Filippino Giorgia , Gheza Gabriele , Gigante Daniela , Paoli Luca , Potenza Giovanna , Poponnessi Silvia , Prosser Filippo , Puntillo Domenico , Puntillo Michele , Venanzoni Roberto
Published: May 2018

In this contribution, new data concerning bryophytes, fungi and lichens and of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records and confirmations for the bryophyte generaDicranodontium,Fontinalis,LophocoleaandRiccia, the fungal genusDiplolaeviopsis, the lichen generaAgonimia,Cladonia,Protoparmelia,Rhizocarpon, andScytinium.
Population structure of Erythronium dens-canis L. (Liliaceae) in the northern Apennines (Italy)
Authors: Pupillo Paolo , Astuti Giovanni
Published: May 2018

Relationships between age, time of emergence, and leaf traits of individuals were investigated in a population of Erythroniumdens-canis L. in a hilly woodland area named Farneto-C, near Bologna, Italy. In 2015, 591 individuals were counted, 19 of which were flowering (FLO), 442 were mature non-flowering (MNF) and 130 were juveniles (JUV). FLO emerged at the end of February, whereas most MNF and JUV appeared at the middle and end of March, respectively. The mean aboveground survivorship of MNF was 24 days. Most MNF had large, oval to shield-shaped leaves with red-brown mottling, whereas most JUV leaves were smaller, usually oblong or lanceolate with a rough maculation or none. These results suggest that both timing of emergence and leaf shape are related to the age of the bulb. Based on leaf background, plants were classified into three major types with a likely genetic basis in the 2015 and 2016 surveys (the latter limited to FLO): a dominant silvery type (SLV, 62–74%), silvery-and-green type (S&G, 23–32%), and a less frequent vivid-green type (GRN, 3–5%). Several subtypes were also identified, but only one was dominant within each type. The three basic patterns appear to be phenotypically stable and no differences between MNF and FLO were found; once the juvenile stage has passed, each plant produces the same leaf type year after year. In addition, our results on the discoloration time-course of red-brown spots suggest that the functional role of leaf mottling is not related to pollinator attraction. Instead, leaf mottling could play a role in camouflage against herbivores.The observed massive grazing on flowers, more than leaves, could explain why the frequency of mature individuals was biased towards the non-flowering ones.
Notulae to the Italian flora of algae, bryophytes, fungi and lichens: 4
Authors: Ravera Sonia , Vizzini Alfredo , Cogoni Annalena , Aleffi Michele , Assini Silvia , Bergamo Decarli Giovanni , Bonini Ilaria , von Brackel Wolfgang , Cheli Francesco , Darmostuk Valeriy , Fačkovcová Zuzana , Gavrylenko Lyubov , Gheza Gabriele , Guttová Anna , Mayrhofer Helmut , Nascimbene Juri , Paoli Luca , Poponnessi Silvia , Potenza Giovanna , Prosser Filippo , Puddu Davide , Puntillo Domenico , Rigotti Diego , Sguazzin Francesco , Tatti Alessia , Venanzoni Roberto
Published: May 2018

In this contribution, new data concerning bryophytes, fungi and lichens of the Italian flora are presented. It includes new records and confirmations for the bryophyte generaCampylopus,Paludella,Tortula, andConocephalum, the fungal generaAgonimia,Buelliella,Entorrhiza,Filicupula,Poronia, andSporisorium, the lichen generaCladonia,Dibaeis,Lasallia, andRhizocarpon.
A multi-access identification key based on colour patterns in ladybirds (Coleoptera, Coccinellidae)
Authors: Jouveau Séverin , Delaunay Mathilde , Vignes-Lebbe Régine , Nattier Romain
Published: May 2018

An identification key based on French ladybird colouration is proposed for the tribes Chilocorini, Coccinellini, and Epilachnini. These tribes were chosen based on their relatively limited species diversity, as well as their large size and high colour diversity, making them easy to observe and collect. The identification key runs on Xper3 software, which allows the building of structured knowledge bases and online free-access keys. The online interactive Xper key is available at http://french-ladybird.identificationkey.fr.
Spies and security: Assessing the impact of animated videos on intelligence services in school children
Authors: Díaz-Fernández Antonio-M. , del-Real-Castrillo Cristina
Published: May 2018

Making the work of security organizations known to school children is a means of mitigating feelings of insecurity provoked by the diffusion of information on terrorist attacks in communications media and through social media. Whilst there is a longer tradition of projects to educate school children on the police and the armed forces, no comparable projects have been found on the intelligence services. With the objective of filling this gap, the authors designed and produced two animated educational videos for Spanish school children on the Spanish intelligence service: The National Intelligence Center (CNI). In this paper, the impact of the videos is measured in relation to the knowledge, the stereotypes, and the attitudes of school children towards the CNI. To do so, two questionnaires were administered to 1,092 school children aged 8 and 12, before and after viewing the videos. The results of the questionnaire prior to screening the videos showed that the school children held no knowledge of the intelligence services, and expressed highly developed stereotypes, and moderately negative attitudes towards them. Student-t tests for related samples were used to confirm the responses, on the basis of which it was found that the videos modified both knowledge and stereotyping, as well as attitudes towards the CNI. Specifically, following the screenings the knowledge of the school children improved, stereotyping diminished, and positive attitudes increased.

Dar a conocer a los escolares las organizaciones de seguridad es un medio para reducir la inseguridad generada por la difusión de los atentados terroristas en los medios de comunicación y redes sociales. Mientras que hay una mayor tradición en proyectos para educar a los escolares sobre la policía y los militares, no se han encontrado proyectos análogos sobre los servicios de inteligencia. Con el objetivo de suplir esta carencia, los autores diseñaron y produjeron dos vídeos animados educativos destinados a escolares españoles sobre el servicio de inteligencia español, el Centro Nacional de Inteligencia (CNI). Este artículo mide cuál es el impacto de los vídeos en el conocimiento, los estereotipos y las actitudes de los escolares hacia el CNI. Para ello, se aplicaron dos cuestionarios a 1.092 escolares de 8 a 16 años, antes y después de la visualización de los vídeos. Los resultados previos a la visualización mostraron un conocimiento nulo, alto grado de estereotipos y actitudes moderadamente negativas hacia los servicios de inteligencia. Se comprobaron las respuestas mediante pruebas T para muestras relacionadas, a partir de las cuales se obtuvo que los vídeos modificaban el conocimiento, los estereotipos y las actitudes hacia el CNI. Específicamente, tras la visualización mejoró el conocimiento de los escolares, disminuyó el grado de estereotipos y aumentaron las actitudes positivas.
Problematic uses of ICTs among young people in their personal and school life
Authors: Rodríguez-Gómez David , Castro Diego , Meneses Julio
Published: May 2018

Studies on ICT use in education usually focus on ICT’s contribution to training processes. However, scarce research has concentrated on the problematic use of ICT among young people in the school context, and most of it approaches the problem from a psychopathological perspective. The purpose of this paper, in contrast, is to analyse problematic ICT use among young people in their personal and school setting. The methodology involved applying a questionnaire to a sample of 1,052 youths aged between 12 and 18 years old. The study starts with a univariate and bivariate descriptive analysis. Subsequently, three Poisson regression models were developed to evaluate the contribution of several predictor variables to the three types of problematic uses identified in their sphere, learning processes and classroom relationships. Results show a relationship between problematic ICT use in personal and school settings, with older youths who use smartphones (the) most likely to engage in this type of behaviour. The use of mobile technology largely explains the problematic behaviour in the use of ICT among young people in personal and school contexts, which justifies the need to promote actions contributing to more responsible use of this type of technology in all areas of their personal, school and social life.

Los estudios sobre el uso de las TIC en educación suelen analizar su contribución a los procesos formativos. Son escasas las investigaciones centradas en los usos problemáticos de las TIC que realizan los jóvenes en el contexto escolar y, la mayoría, lo abordan desde una perspectiva psicopatológica. El propósito del presente artículo es analizar los usos problemáticos de las TIC entre jóvenes en su ámbito personal y escolar. La metodología consistió en la aplicación de un cuestionario a 1.052 jóvenes de entre 12 y 18 años. El estudio se inicia con un análisis univariante y bivariante. Posteriormente, se desarrollan tres modelos de regresión de Poisson para valorar la contribución de diversas variables predictoras sobre tres tipos de usos problemáticos identificados en: el ámbito personal, los procesos de aprendizaje y las relaciones de aula. Los resultados muestran una relación entre los usos problemáticos en el ámbito personal y escolar, siendo los chicos de mayor edad y que utilizan intensivamente los «smartphones» los que más probabilidades tienen de incurrir en este tipo de comportamientos. El uso de la tecnología móvil explica en gran medida las conductas inadecuadas en el uso de las TIC en los ámbitos personal y escolar entre los jóvenes, lo que justifica la necesidad de promover actuaciones que contribuyan a un uso más responsable de este tipo de tecnología en todos los ámbitos de su vida personal, escolar y social.
Neuron-Specific HuR-Deficient Mice Spontaneously Develop Motor Neuron Disease
Authors: Sun Kevin , Li Xiao , Chen Xing , Bai Ying , Zhou Gao , Kokiko-Cochran Olga N. , Lamb Bruce , Hamilton Thomas A. , Lin Ching-Yi , Lee Yu-Shang , Herjan Tomasz
Published: May 2018

Human Ag R (HuR) is an RNA binding protein in the ELAVL protein family. To study the neuron-specific function of HuR, we generated inducible, neuron-specific HuR-deficient mice of both sexes. After tamoxifen-induced deletion of HuR, these mice developed a phenotype consisting of poor balance, decreased movement, and decreased strength. They performed significantly worse on the rotarod test compared with littermate control mice, indicating coordination deficiency. Using the grip-strength test, it was also determined that the forelimbs of neuron-specific HuR-deficient mice were much weaker than littermate control mice. Immunostaining of the brain and cervical spinal cord showed that HuR-deficient neurons had increased levels of cleaved caspase-3, a hallmark of cell apoptosis. Caspase-3 cleavage was especially strong in pyramidal neurons and α motor neurons of HuR-deficient mice. Genome-wide microarray and real-time PCR analysis further indicated that HuR deficiency in neurons resulted in altered expression of genes in the brain involved in cell growth, including trichoplein keratin filament–binding protein, Cdkn2c, G-protein signaling modulator 2, immediate early response 2, superoxide dismutase 1, and Bcl2. The additional enriched Gene Ontology terms in the brain tissues of neuron-specific HuR-deficient mice were largely related to inflammation, including IFN-induced genes and complement components. Importantly, some of these HuR-regulated genes were also significantly altered in the brain and spinal cord of patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Additionally, neuronal HuR deficiency resulted in the redistribution of TDP43 to cytosolic granules, which has been linked to motor neuron disease. Taken together, we propose that this neuron-specific HuR-deficient mouse strain can potentially be used as a motor neuron disease model.