bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermodulation Linearity in High-k/Metal Gate 28 nm RF CMOS Transistors
Authors: Li Zhen , Niu Guofu , Liang Qingqing , Imura Kimihiko
Published: September 2015

This paper presents experimental characterization, simulation, and Volterra series based analysis of intermodulation linearity on a high-k/metal gate 28 nm RF CMOS technology. A figure-of-merit is proposed to account for both VGS and VDS nonlinearity, and extracted from frequency dependence of measured IIP3. Implications to biasing current and voltage optimization for linearity are discussed.
Swirling Combustor Energy Converter: H2/Air Simulations of Separated Chambers
Authors: Minotti Angelo , Teofilatto Paolo
Published: September 2015

This work reports results related to the “EU-FP7-HRC-Power” project aiming at developing micro-meso hybrid sources of power. One of the goals of the project is to achieve surface temperatures up to more than 1000 K, with a ∆T ≤ 100 K, in order to be compatible with a thermal/electrical conversion by thermo-photovoltaic cells. The authors investigate how to reach that goal adopting swirling chambers integrated in a thermally-conductive and emitting element. The converter consists of a small parallelepiped brick inside two separated swirling meso-combustion chambers, which heat up the parallelepiped, emitting material by the combustion of H2 and air at ambient pressure. The overall dimension is of the order of cm. Nine combustion simulations have been carried out assuming detailed chemistry, several length/diameter ratios (Z/D = 3, 5 and 11) and equivalence ratios (0.4, 0.7 and 1); all are at 400 W of injected chemical power. Among the most important results are the converter surfaces temperatures, the heat loads, provided to the environment, and the chemical efficiency. The high chemical efficiency, h > 99.9%, is due to the relatively long average gas residence time coupled with the fairly good mixing due to the swirl motion and the impinging air/fuel jets that provide heat and radicals to the flame.
Variability of Stand Structures and Development in Old-Growth Forests in the Pacific Northwest, USA
Authors: Park Pil , Oliver Chadwick
Published: September 2015

The forest stand structure class “old-growth” has previously been qualitatively described as having several distinct “sub-structures.” Species composition, diameter distribution, and other structural features commonly associated with old-growth in the Pacific Northwest are quite variable. We determined which quantitative stand structure variables are commonly found together using the Spearman correlation and non-metric multidimensional analysis. Some features were more commonly found together than others, indicating different old-growth stand types, or sub-structures. Cluster analysis classified the old-growth forests into four groups: Douglas-fir dominance, shade tolerant species dominance, and intermediate groups. The intermediate groups were split by the density of large logs and large shade tolerant trees. The old-growth sub-structures appear to change from one to another as the old forest develops.
A Pilot Investigation of the Relationship between Climate Variability and Milk Compounds under the Bootstrap Technique
Authors: Milani Mohammad , Hense Andreas , Rahmani Elham , Ploeger Angelika
Published: September 2015

This study analyzes the linear relationship between climate variables and milk components in Iran by applying bootstrapping to include and assess the uncertainty. The climate parameters, Temperature Humidity Index (THI) and Equivalent Temperature Index (ETI) are computed from the NASA-Modern Era Retrospective-Analysis for Research and Applications (NASA-MERRA) reanalysis (2002–2010). Milk data for fat, protein (measured on fresh matter bases), and milk yield are taken from 936,227 milk records for the same period, using cows fed by natural pasture from April to September. Confidence intervals for the regression model are calculated using the bootstrap technique. This method is applied to the original times series, generating statistically equivalent surrogate samples. As a result, despite the short time data and the related uncertainties, an interesting behavior of the relationships between milk compound and the climate parameters is visible. During spring only, a weak dependency of milk yield and climate variations is obvious, while fat and protein concentrations show reasonable correlations. In summer, milk yield shows a similar level of relationship with ETI, but not with temperature and THI. We suggest this methodology for studies in the field of the impacts of climate change and agriculture, also environment and food with short-term data.
Suicide Communication on Social Media and Its Psychological Mechanisms: An Examination of Chinese Microblog Users
Authors: Cheng Qijin , Kwok Chi , Zhu Tingshao , Guan Li , Yip Paul
Published: September 2015

Background: This study aims to examine the characteristics of people who talk about suicide on Chinese microblogs (referred to as Weibo suicide communication (WSC)), and the psychological antecedents of such behaviors. Methods: An online survey was conducted on Weibo users. Differences in psychological and social demographic characteristics between those who exhibited WSC and those who did not were examined. Three theoretical models were proposed to explain the psychological mechanisms of WSC and their fitness was examined by Structural Equation Modeling (SEM). Results: 12.03% of our respondents exhibited WSC in the past 12 months. The WSC group was significantly younger and less educated, preferred using blogs and online forums for expressing themselves, and reported significantly greater suicide ideation, negative affectivity, and vulnerable personality compared to non-WSC users. SEM examinations found that Weibo users with higher negative affectivity or/and suicidal ideation, who were also using blogs and forums more, exhibited a significantly higher possibility of WSC. Conclusion: Weibo users who are at greater suicide risk are more likely to talk about suicide on Weibo. WSC is a sign of negative affectivity or suicide ideation, and should be responded to with emotional support and suicide prevention services.
Land Cover Mapping Analysis and Urban Growth Modelling Using Remote Sensing Techniques in Greater Cairo Region—Egypt
Authors: Megahed Yasmine , Cabral Pedro , Silva Joel , Caetano Mário
Published: September 2015

This study modeled the urban growth in the Greater Cairo Region (GCR), one of the fastest growing mega cities in the world, using remote sensing data and ancillary data. Three land use land cover (LULC) maps (1984, 2003 and 2014) were produced from satellite images by using Support Vector Machines (SVM). Then, land cover changes were detected by applying a high level mapping technique that combines binary maps (change/no-change) and post classification comparison technique. The spatial and temporal urban growth patterns were analyzed using selected statistical metrics developed in the FRAGSTATS software. Major transitions to urban were modeled to predict the future scenarios for year 2025 using Land Change Modeler (LCM) embedded in the IDRISI software. The model results, after validation, indicated that 14% of the vegetation and 4% of the desert in 2014 will be urbanized in 2025. The urban areas within a 5-km buffer around: the Great Pyramids, Islamic Cairo and Al-Baron Palace were calculated, highlighting an intense urbanization especially around the Pyramids; 28% in 2014 up to 40% in 2025. Knowing the current and estimated urbanization situation in GCR will help decision makers to adjust and develop new plans to achieve a sustainable development of urban areas and to protect the historical locations.
Metabolite Profiling of Diverse Rice Germplasm and Identification of Conserved Metabolic Markers of Rice Roots in Response to Long-Term Mild Salinity Stress
Authors: Nam Myung , Bang Eunjung , Kwon Taek , Kim Yuran , Kim Eun , Cho Kyungwon , Park Woong , Kim Beom-Gi , Yoon In
Published: September 2015

The sensitivity of rice to salt stress greatly depends on growth stages, organ types and cultivars. Especially, the roots of young rice seedlings are highly salt-sensitive organs that limit plant growth, even under mild soil salinity conditions. In an attempt to identify metabolic markers of rice roots responding to salt stress, metabolite profiling was performed by 1H-NMR spectroscopy in 38 rice genotypes that varied in biomass accumulation under long-term mild salinity condition. Multivariate statistical analysis showed separation of the control and salt-treated rice roots and rice genotypes with differential growth potential. By quantitative analyses of 1H-NMR data, five conserved salt-responsive metabolic markers of rice roots were identified. Sucrose, allantoin and glutamate accumulated by salt stress, whereas the levels of glutamine and alanine decreased. A positive correlation of metabolite changes with growth potential and salt tolerance of rice genotypes was observed for allantoin and glutamine. Adjustment of nitrogen metabolism in rice roots is likely to be closely related to maintain the growth potential and increase the stress tolerance of rice.
Consequences of Ultra-Violet Irradiation on the Mechanical Properties of Spider Silk
Authors: Lai Wee , Goh Kheng
Published: September 2015

The outstanding combination of high tensile strength and extensibility of spider silk is believed to contribute to the material’s toughness. Thus, there is great interest in engineering silk for biomedical products such as suture or implants. Additionally, over the years, many studies have also sought to enhance the mechanical properties of spider silk for wider applicability, e.g., by irradiating the material using ultra-violet radiation. However, the limitations surrounding the use of ultra-violet radiation for enhancing the mechanical properties of spider silk are not well-understood. Here, we have analyzed the mechanical properties of spider silk at short ultra-violet irradiation duration. Specimens of spider silk were subjected to ultra-violet irradiation (254-nm wavelength, i.e. UVC) for 10, 20, and 30 min, respectively, followed by tensile test to rupture to determine the strength (maximum stress), extensibility (rupture strain), and toughness (strain energy density to rupture). Controls, i.e., specimens that did not received UVC, were also subjected to tensile test to rupture to determine the respective mechanical properties. One-way analysis of variance reveals that these properties decrease significantly (p < 0.05) with increasing irradiation duration. Among the three mechanical parameters, the strength of the spider silk degrades most rapidly; the extensibility of the spider silk degrades the slowest. Overall, these changes correspond to the observed surface modifications as well as the bond rupture between the peptide chains of the treated silk. Altogether, this simple but comprehensive study provides some key insights into the dependence of the mechanical properties on ultra-violet irradiation duration.
Microfluidic Induced Controllable Microdroplets Assembly in Confined Channels
Authors: Wang Juan , Jin Mingliang , He Tao , Zhou Guofu , Shui Lingling
Published: September 2015

We report on the microfluidic induced monodispersed microdroplet generation and assembly in confined microchannels. Two and three dimensional close-packed droplet lattices were obtained in microfluidic devices by adjusting the channel geometry, the fluidic flow rates and the monodispersed droplet size. The droplet packing was mainly caused by the volumetric effect and capillarity in confined microchannels. Polymerizable fluids were also investigated to demonstrate the effect of fluidic properties on the microdroplet generation and assembly, which could find interesting applications in the future. This approach would be helpful to fundamentally understand the mechanism of self-assembly process of particles in confined microstructures, and practically be applied in sensing and energy storage devices.
Insecticidal and Nematicidal Activities of Novel Mimosine Derivatives
Authors: Nguyen Binh , Chompoo Jamnian , Tawata Shinkichi
Published: September 2015

Mimosine, a non-protein amino acid, is found in several tropical and subtropical plants, which has high value for medicine and agricultural chemicals. Here, in continuation of works aimed to development of natural product-based pesticidal agents, we present the first significant findings for insecticidal and nematicidal activities of novel mimosine derivatives. Interestingly, mimosinol and deuterated mimosinol (D-mimosinol) from mimosine had strong insecticidal activity which could be a result of tyrosinase inhibition (IC50 = 31.4 and 46.1 μM, respectively). Of synthesized phosphoramidothionate derivatives from two these amino alcohols, two compounds (1a and 1b) showed high insecticidal activity (LD50 = 0.5 and 0.7 μg/insect, respectively) with 50%–60% mortality at 50 μg/mL which may be attributed to acetylcholinesterase inhibition. Compounds 1a and 1b also had strong nematicidal activity with IC50 = 31.8 and 50.2 μM, respectively. Our results suggest that the length of the alkyl chain and the functional group at the C5-position of phosphoramidothionates derived from mimosinol and d-mimosinol are essential for the insecticidal and nematicidal activities. These results reveal an unexplored scaffold as new insecticide and nematicide.
Integrated Microwave Photonic Isolators: Theory, Experimental Realization and Application in a Unidirectional Ring Mode-Locked Laser Diode
Authors: Heck Martijn , Srinivasan Sudharsanan , Davenport Michael , Bowers John
Published: September 2015

A novel integrated microwave photonic isolator is presented. It is based on the timed drive of a pair of optical modulators, which transmit a pulsed or oscillating optical signal with low loss, when driven in phase. A signal in the reverse propagation direction will find the modulators out of phase and, hence, will experience high loss. Optical and microwave isolation ratios were simulated to be in the range up to 10 dB and 20 dB, respectively, using parameters representative for the indium phosphide platform. The experimental realization of this device in the hybrid silicon platform showed microwave isolation in the 9 dB–22 dB range. Furthermore, we present a design study on the use of these isolators inside a ring mode-locked laser cavity. Simulations show that unidirectional operation can be achieved, with a 30–50-dB suppression of the counter propagating mode, at limited driving voltages. The potentially low noise and feedback-insensitive operation of such a laser makes it a very promising candidate for use as on-chip microwave or comb generators.
Possible Roles of Strigolactones during Leaf Senescence
Authors: Yamada Yusuke , Umehara Mikihisa
Published: September 2015

Leaf senescence is a complicated developmental process that involves degenerative changes and nutrient recycling. The progress of leaf senescence is controlled by various environmental cues and plant hormones, including ethylene, jasmonic acid, salicylic acid, abscisic acid, cytokinins, and strigolactones. The production of strigolactones is induced in response to nitrogen and phosphorous deficiency. Strigolactones also accelerate leaf senescence and regulate shoot branching and root architecture. Leaf senescence is actively promoted in a nutrient-poor soil environment, and nutrients are transported from old leaves to young tissues and seeds. Strigolactones might act as important signals in response to nutrient levels in the rhizosphere. In this review, we discuss the possible roles of strigolactones during leaf senescence.
A Techno-Economic Comparison between Two Methanol-to-Propylene Processes
Authors: Jasper Sarah , El-Halwagi Mahmoud
Published: September 2015

The significant increase in natural/shale gas production in the US is causing major changes in the chemical and petrochemical markets. These changes include the increased supply of methanol and the decreased supply of propylene. As such, there are promising opportunities for methanol-to-propylene processes in the US. This paper provides a top-level techno-economic analysis of two pathways: methanol to olefins (MTO) and methanol to propylene (MTP). Base-case scenarios are simulated using ASPEN Plus to obtain the key mass and energy balances as well as design data. For each process, two scenarios are considered for the feedstock: buying methanol versus making it from natural gas. The return on investment (ROI) is calculated for both processes under broad ranges of the prices of natural gas, methanol, and products. In addition to the techno-economic analysis, the CO2 emissions are evaluated and compared.
Cultural Editing for Linking City, Culture and Society
Authors: Okano Hiroshi
Published: September 2015

City, Culture and Society (Elsevier) aims to stimulate a new interdisciplinary paradigm that embraces multiple perspectives and applies this paradigm to the urban imperative that defines the century. The journal is looking at an academic audience, but is also seeking new readers, such as those working in the public sector, those employed in the private sector, those who contribute to international organizations, and so on. The paper considers one methodological viewpoint for promoting interdisciplinary studies by using the concept—cultural editing—and shows some new horizons for urban studies.
Modeling and Analysis of a Low-Voltage DC Distribution System
Authors: Han Joon , Oh Yun-Sik , Gwon Gi-Hyeon , Kim Doo-Ung , Noh Chul-Ho , Jung Tack-Hyun , Lee Soon-Jeong , Kim Chul-Hwan
Published: September 2015

It is well known that the Low-Voltage DC (LVDC) distribution system is a promising topology as a future smart distribution system due to its high efficiency and reliability. However, there are still some challenges in the construction and implementation of an LVDC system. For practical application of the LVDC system, therefore, it is necessary to perform any simulation in advance by considering various conditions that can occur in an LVDC system. In order to provide a foundation for analyzing a DC system, this paper presents an LVDC distribution system model including essential components such as power electronic devices, Distributed Energy Resource (DER), and Energy Storage System (ESS), which can be considered for implementation in an LVDC system using Electro-Magnetic Transient Program (EMTP) software. Moreover, an analysis of the characteristic in both the steady state and the transient state is conducted in an LVDC distribution system.
Valuation of Index-Linked Cash Flows in a Heath–Jarrow–Morton Framework
Authors: Alm Jonas , Lindskog Filip
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we study the valuation of stochastic cash flows that exhibit dependence on interest rates. We focus on insurance liability cash flows linked to an index, such as a consumer price index or wage index, where changes in the index value can be partially understood in terms of changes in the term structure of interest rates. Insurance liability cash flows that are not explicitly linked to an index may still be valued in our framework by interpreting index returns as so-called claims inflation, i.e., an increase in claims cost per sold insurance contract. We focus primarily on the case when a deep and liquid market for index-linked contracts is absent or when the market price data are unreliable. Firstly, we present an approach for assigning a monetary value to a stochastic cash flow that does not require full knowledge of the joint dynamics of the cash flow and the term structure of interest rates. Secondly, we investigate in detail model selection, estimation and validation in a Heath–Jarrow–Morton framework. Finally, we analyze the effects of model uncertainty on the valuation of the cash flows and how forecasts of cash flows and interest rates translate into model parameters and affect the valuation.
Mapping Aquatic Vegetation in a Tropical Wetland Using High Spatial Resolution Multispectral Satellite Imagery
Authors: Whiteside Timothy , Bartolo Renée
Published: September 2015

Vegetation plays a key role in the environmental function of wetlands. The Ramsar-listed wetlands of the Magela Creek floodplain in Northern Australia are identified as being at risk from weeds, fire and climate change. In addition, the floodplain is a downstream receiving environment for the Ranger Uranium Mine. Accurate methods for mapping wetland vegetation are required to provide contemporary baselines of annual vegetation dynamics on the floodplain to assist with analysing any potential change during and after minesite rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to develop and test the applicability of geographic object-based image analysis including decision tree classification to classify WorldView-2 imagery and LiDAR-derived ancillary data to map the aquatic vegetation communities of the Magela Creek floodplain. Results of the decision tree classification were compared against a Random Forests classification. The resulting maps showed the 12 major vegetation communities that exist on the Magela Creek floodplain and their distribution for May 2010. The decision tree classification method provided an overall accuracy of 78% which was significantly higher than the overall accuracy of the Random Forests classification (67%). Most of the error in both classifications was associated with confusion between spectrally similar classes dominated by grasses, such as Hymenachne and Pseudoraphis. In addition, the extent of the sedge Eleocharis was under-estimated in both cases. This suggests the method could be useful for mapping wetlands where statistical-based supervised classifications have achieved less than satisfactory results. Based upon the results, the decision tree method will form part of an ongoing operational monitoring program.
Evaluation of Airborne Lidar Elevation Surfaces for Propagation of Coastal Inundation: The Importance of Hydrologic Connectivity
Authors: Poppenga Sandra , Worstell Bruce
Published: September 2015

Detailed information about coastal inundation is vital to understanding dynamic and populated areas that are impacted by storm surge and flooding. To understand these natural hazard risks, lidar elevation surfaces are frequently used to model inundation in coastal areas. A single-value surface method is sometimes used to inundate areas in lidar elevation surfaces that are below a specified elevation value. However, such an approach does not take into consideration hydrologic connectivity between elevation grids cells resulting in inland areas that should be hydrologically connected to the ocean, but are not. Because inland areas that should drain to the ocean are hydrologically disconnected by raised features in a lidar elevation surface, simply raising the water level to propagate coastal inundation will lead to inundation uncertainties. We took advantage of this problem to identify hydrologically disconnected inland areas to point out that they should be considered for coastal inundation, and that a lidar-based hydrologic surface should be developed with hydrologic connectivity prior to inundation analysis. The process of achieving hydrologic connectivity with hydrologic-enforcement is not new, however, the application of hydrologically-enforced lidar elevation surfaces for improved coastal inundation mapping as approached in this research is innovative. In this article, we propagated a high-resolution lidar elevation surface in coastal Staten Island, New York to demonstrate that inland areas lacking hydrologic connectivity to the ocean could potentially be included in inundation delineations. For inland areas that were hydrologically disconnected, we evaluated if drainage to the ocean was evident, and calculated an area exceeding 11 ha (~0.11 km2) that could be considered in inundation delineations. We also assessed land cover for each inland area to determine the type of physical surfaces that would be potentially impacted if the inland areas were considered as part of a coastal inundation. A visual analysis indicated that developed, medium intensity and palustrine forested wetland land cover types would be impacted for those locations. This article demonstrates that hydrologic connectivity is an important factor to consider when inundating a lidar elevation surface. This information is needed for inundation monitoring and management in sensitive coastal regions.
Map as a Service: A Framework for Visualising and Maximising Information Return from Multi-ModalWireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Hammoudeh Mohammad , Newman Robert , Dennett Christopher , Mount Sarah , Aldabbas Omar
Published: September 2015

This paper presents a distributed information extraction and visualisation service, called the mapping service, for maximising information return from large-scale wireless sensor networks. Such a service would greatly simplify the production of higher-level, information-rich, representations suitable for informing other network services and the delivery of field information visualisations. The mapping service utilises a blend of inductive and deductive models to map sense data accurately using externally available knowledge. It utilises the special characteristics of the application domain to render visualisations in a map format that are a precise reflection of the concrete reality. This service is suitable for visualising an arbitrary number of sense modalities. It is capable of visualising from multiple independent types of the sense data to overcome the limitations of generating visualisations from a single type of sense modality. Furthermore, the mapping service responds dynamically to changes in the environmental conditions, which may affect the visualisation performance by continuously updating the application domain model in a distributed manner. Finally, a distributed self-adaptation function is proposed with the goal of saving more power and generating more accurate data visualisation. We conduct comprehensive experimentation to evaluate the performance of our mapping service and show that it achieves low communication overhead, produces maps of high fidelity, and further minimises the mapping predictive error dynamically through integrating the application domain model in the mapping service.
Development of Environmentally Sustainable Methods for Treatment of Domestic Wastewater and Handling of Sewage Sludge on Yap Island
Authors: Rouse Joseph
Published: September 2015

A survey was conducted of the wastewater treatment systems and related sludge handling practices on the island of Yap, in the Federated States of Micronesia, to assist in identifying areas where further work would be merited to improve on effectiveness and sustainability. A detailed inventory was made of communal septic tanks as found at health centers and schools. Though most of these septic tanks appeared to be functional, there were concerns due to some units being positioned within the tidal zone, covered over with vegetation, or out of reach of the pump truck. Furthermore, the centralized wastewater treatment plant on Yap provides only primary treatment consisting of a limited removal of suspended solids. Thus, only partially treated sewage is being discharged to the bay. Excess sludge is drawn from the treatment plant on a quarterly basis, which local farmers regularly make use of as fertilizer for crop application without adequate treatment. As an immediate target for further study and pilot testing, exploring the use of an attached-growth process as an inexpensive retrofit to enhance the effectiveness of the treatment plant is proposed. In addition, the benefits of implementing a composting program for recycle of waste sludge in a safe manner and developing a framework for management of septic tanks are discussed.
Soil Degradation: Will Humankind Ever Learn?
Authors: Karlen Douglas , Rice Charles
Published: September 2015

Soil degradation is a global problem caused by many factors including excessive tillage, inappropriate crop rotations, excessive grazing or crop residue removal, deforestation, mining, construction and urban sprawl. To meet the needs of an expanding global population, it is essential for humankind to recognize and understand that improving soil health by adopting sustainable agricultural and land management practices is the best solution for mitigating and reversing current soil degradation trends. This research editorial is intended to provide an overview for this Special Issue of Sustainability that examines the global problem of soil degradation through reviews and recent research studies addressing soil health in Africa, Australia, China, Europe, India, North and South America, and Russia. Two common factors—soil erosion and depletion of soil organic matter (SOM)—emerge as consistent indicators of how “the thin layer covering the planet that stands between us and starvation” is being degraded. Soil degradation is not a new problem but failing to acknowledge, mitigate, and remediate the multiple factors leading to it is no longer a viable option for humankind. We optimistically conclude that the most promising strategies to mitigate soil degradation are to select appropriate land uses and improve soil management practices so that SOM is increased, soil biology is enhanced, and all forms of erosion are reduced. Collectively, these actions will enable humankind to “take care of the soil so it can take care of us”.
The Customer Citizenship Behaviors of Food Blog Users
Authors: Chen Kaung-Hwa , Hsieh Kuo-Jung , Chang Feng-Hsiang , Chen Nai-Chia
Published: September 2015

Compared with previous studies that have focused on customers’ behavioral intentions or the factors that influence purchase behaviors on blogs or discussion boards, in this study, we examine the factors of independent food blogs or discussion boards that influence users’ customer citizenship behaviors. Six food blogs were selected based on the flow rate and food diaries. 323 Subjects were chosen from the blog user population and then interviewed to develop the data needed for this study. The results indicate that psychological needs, customer satisfaction, and customer-company identification positively affect customer citizenship behaviors. High satisfaction of customer-orientation is a critical management strategy on food blogs. This study adapts physically existing organizational behavior theory through appropriate inference and modification for virtual community. Unlike past studies that focused on customer purchase intention, this study emphasizes customer value and social media of the virtual community.
Factors Influencing the Behavioural Intention towards Full Electric Vehicles: An Empirical Study in Macau
Authors: Lai Ivan , Liu Yide , Sun Xinbo , Zhang Hao , Xu Weiwei
Published: September 2015

This study examines the factors that influence individual intentions towards the adoption of full electric vehicles. A sample including 308 respondents was collected on the streets of Macau. The collected data were analysed by confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling. The results demonstrate that environmental concerns and the perception of environmental policy are antecedent factors of the perception of full electric vehicles, which influences the behavioural intention to purchase full electric vehicles. This study also finds that the perception of economic benefit is one of the key factors influencing the adoption of full electric vehicles. Vehicle operators seek economic benefits from future long-term fuel savings, high energy efficiency, and cheap electricity. Thus, a government striving to promote low-carbon transportation needs to scale up its efforts to enhance citizens’ environmental concerns and to establish proper environmental policy as well as to provide long-term financial and strategic support for electric vehicles.
Honokiol, a Lignan Biphenol Derived from the Magnolia Tree, Inhibits Dengue Virus Type 2 Infection
Authors: Fang Chih-Yeu , Chen Siang-Jyun , Wu Huey-Nan , Ping Yueh-Hsin , Lin Ching-Yen , Shiuan David , Chen Chi-Long , Lee Ying-Ray , Huang Kao-Jean
Published: September 2015

Dengue is the most widespread arbovirus infection and poses a serious health and economic issue in tropical and subtropical countries. Currently no licensed vaccine or compounds can be used to prevent or manage the severity of dengue virus (DENV) infection. Honokiol, a lignan biphenol derived from the Magnolia tree, is commonly used in Eastern medicine. Here we report that honokiol has profound antiviral activity against serotype 2 DENV (DENV-2). In addition to inhibiting the intracellular DENV-2 replicon, honokiol was shown to suppress the replication of DENV-2 in baby hamster kidney (BHK) and human hepatocarcinoma Huh7 cells. At the maximum non-toxic dose of honokiol treatment, the production of infectious DENV particles was reduced >90% in BHK and Huh7 cells. The underlying mechanisms revealed that the expression of DENV-2 nonstructural protein NS1/NS3 and its replicating intermediate, double-strand RNA, was dramatically reduced by honokiol treatment. Honokiol has no effect on the expression of DENV putative receptors, but may interfere with the endocytosis of DENV-2 by abrogating the co-localization of DENV envelope glycoprotein and the early endosomes. These results indicate that honokiol inhibits the replication, viral gene expression, and endocytotic process of DENV-2, making it a promising agent for chemotherapy of DENV infection.
Increased Prevalence of Diastolic Heart Failure in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Correlates with Active Disease, but Not with Treatment Type
Authors: Schau Thomas , Gottwald Michael , Arbach Olga , Seifert Martin , Schöpp Maren , Neuß Michael , Butter Christian , Zänker Michael
Published: September 2015

Objective.

Although heart failure (HF) is a major cause of premature mortality, there is little information regarding its prevalence and associated risk factors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In this study, we evaluated the prevalence of HF in a community-based RA cohort. Further, we investigated the effect of RA activity and present treatment on HF rate and cardiac structure.

Methods.

A diagnostic workup for HF according to the European Society of Cardiology recommendations was performed in 157 patients with RA fulfilling the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism criteria (68% women, age 61 ± 13 yrs) from our outpatient clinic and in 77 age- and sex-matched controls.

Results.

The prevalence of HF in patients with RA (24%) was unexpectedly high and differed significantly from the control sample (6%, p = 0.001). Diastolic HF was the dominant type (23% vs 6%), and clinical symptoms alone were of low diagnostic value. Active RA (28-joint Disease Activity Score ≥ 2.6: OR 3.4, 95% CI 1.3–9.8) was an independent risk factor of HF, as well as systemic inflammation (erythrocyte sedimentation rate > 16 mm/h: OR 5.4, 95% CI 2.1–16; C-reactive protein > 10 mg/l: OR 2.6, 95% CI 0.8–8.0) and RA duration > 10 years (OR 2.6, 95% CI 1.2–5.8). HF in RA was associated with concentric hypertrophy (48% vs 17%, p < 0.001) and reduced longitudinal strain (−17.2% vs −19.7%, p < 0.001). However, the prevalence of HF was equivalent between the treatment groups [conventional synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARD) 25%, tumor necrosis factor inhibitors 22%, other biological DMARD 27%].

Conclusion.

Recognition of all diastolic HF in RA requires a complex diagnostic approach. Active rather than inactive RA places patients at a higher risk for HF, whereas influence of RA treatment on HF risk needs to be elucidated in further studies.
Eyelid Lacerations Due to Dog Bite in Children
Authors: Sadiq Mohammad Ali A. , Corkin Frances , Mantagos Iason S.
Published: September 2015

Purpose:

To evaluate the nature and extent of lacrimal apparatus injury in children after eyelid laceration from a dog bite.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of all eyelid lacerations treated between 1990 and 2012 at Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, was conducted. Seventy-three patients who sustained an eyelid laceration due to dog bite were identified and were matched 5:1 with a randomly selected cohort of 365 patients from the group of 1,177 patients who had sustained eyelid lacerations from other causes during the same time period.

Results:

Of the 73 patients who sustained an eyelid laceration due to a dog bite, 26 (35.62%) had damage to the lacrimal apparatus. This was statistically significant when compared to patients who sustained eyelid lacerations from other causes, in which 13 (3.56%) patients had damage to the lacrimal apparatus (
P
< .000001). The inferior canaliculus was the most commonly involved site of lacrimal apparatus trauma as a result of a dog bite. Success was defined as lack of epiphora at the time of the last follow-up. Early surgical management of eyelid lacerations with lacrimal apparatus involvement had a success rate of 82%.

Conclusions:

Eyelid lacerations due to dog bites have a greater prevalence of involvement of the lacrimal apparatus and especially the inferior canaliculus than lacerations due to other causes in children. Clinicians should have a high index of suspicion for lacrimal apparatus involvement and be prepared for surgical repair, if indicated.

[
J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus.
2015;52(6):360–363.]
Patti Smith: Aging, fandom, and libido
Authors: Lavin Maud
Published: September 2015

This essay traces a lifelong fandom of Patti Smith in light of issues of aging, femininity, and libido. It also considers the paucity of transformative images in Western mass culture and its fandoms of aging women. Personal narrative is brought into play, fans' experiences throughout the life cycle are referenced, and gender issues are emphasized.
"Transmedia storytelling and the new era of media convergence in higher education," by Stavroula Kalogeras
Authors: Morrissey Katherine E.
Published: September 2015

Review of Stavroula Kalogeras. Transmedia storytelling and the new era of media convergence in higher education. New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2014. Hardcover, $100 (276p) ISBN 978-1137388360.
transformative world of winter fashion in a Nunavik village
Authors: Stoffer Jasmin Aurora
Published: September 2015

An essay/observation of the traditional winter clothing that has been created recently by some of the Inuit of Kuujjuaraapik, Nunavik. Also includes interviews.
Works in progress
Authors: Editor TWC
Published: September 2015

This issue showcases the depth and breadth of fan studies and promises the continuation of an already thriving interdisciplinary subfield. It is so much more than we ever could have hoped a decade ago.
Periódicos Científicos da Ciência da Informação: os títulos indexados na WoS
Authors: Schwarz Rodrigues Rosângela , Stubert Daniela
Published: September 2015

Este artículo estudia las revistas en el campo de Ciencias de la Información indexadas en la Web of Science (WoS). Los objetivos específicos son: a) describir las características editoriales de las revistas indexadas en la Web of Science (WoS). b) indicar el tipo de acceso; c) identificar qué títulos están indexados en DOAJ. El método utilizado se basea en la investigación descriptiva y exploratoria. Los resultados muestran 84 revistas indexadas en la WoS en 2012, 9 títulos de libre acceso, pero sólo 6 indexadas en DOAJ. La entidad editorial predominante son los editores comerciales, con 56 títulos (67% del total), y la publicación trimestral es la más común. La mayoría (62,1%) de las revistas tienen un factor de impacto entre 0 a 0,999 y sólo 2 títulos tienen factor de impacto superior a 4,999, y sus editores son de los Estados Unidos y de los Países Bajos. Reflexiona sobre la condición de Ciencias de la Información de ser el área de conocimiento con la percepción más evidente de la cuestión del acceso y el costo de las revistas científicas, y presentar una cantidad muy representativa de títulos de editoras comerciales, equivalente de las entidades editoriales en el escenario general, en la que los títulos de acceso abierto se deben a una condición geográfica, con una proporción mayor en Brasil.

[pt] Este artigo estuda os periódicos da área da Ciência da Informação indexados na Web of Science (WoS). Os objetivos específicos são: a) descrever as características editoriais dos periódicos da Ciência da Informação indexados na base Web of Science; b) apontar o tipo de acesso; e c) identificar quais títulos estão indexados no DOAJ. A metodologia é pesquisa descritiva e exploratória. Os resultados mostram 84 periódicos indexados na base Web of Science, no ano de 2012, 9 títulos de acesso aberto, estando apenas 6 indexados no DOAJ. O tipo de entidade editorial predominante são as editoras comerciais, com 56 títulos (67% do total), e a periodicidade trimestral é a que fica em evidência. A maioria (62,1%) dos periódicos possui fator de impacto entre 0 a 0,999; apenas 2 títulos apresentam fator de impacto acima de 4,999, e seus editores são dos Estados Unidos e da Holanda. Reflete ainda sobre a condição da Ciência da Informação ser a área do conhecimento com a percepção mais evidente da questão do acesso e dos custos de periódicos científicos e apresentar uma quantidade muito significativa de títulos de editoras comerciais, equivalente ao cenário geral, na qual os títulos em acesso aberto se devem a uma condição geográfica, com uma proporção maior no Brasil.
A computer program for finding a general distribution function of several sets of random data (Univac 1108-calcomp 663-fortran V)
Authors: Soukup J
Published: September 2015

Two programs are given for finding a common general distribution. The programs are designed according a new procedure published separately. The common cumulative function is approximated by a truncated Fourier series with coefficients that are polynomials of the
parameters. Such an approximation is very flexible and does not depend on any standard type of distribution. The programs were successfully applied in geochemistry and geophysics, but the programs can be used almost generally in every applied science.
Geology of Port-aux-Basques map area, Newfoundland
Authors: Gillis J W
Published: September 2015

Port aux Basques area comprises soft Carboniferous sediments in the northwest part and harder, pre - Carboniferous metamorphic and crystal line rocks in the central and eastern parts. The age of the latter rocks is uncertain but some may be as old as Precambrian
and others as young as Devonian, These rocks and the structural geology of the area are briefly described in this paper.
Mononeuritis multiplex in acquired amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia
Authors: Khan Firosh , Shehna Abdulkhader , Mukundan Lekha
Published: September 2015

Mononeuritis multiplex involves inflammation of two or more nerves, typically in unrelated parts of the body. It has been well described in bleeding disorders like idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) and Hemophilia. Acquired amegakaryocytic thrombocytopenia (AAT) is a bleeding diathesis characterized by thrombocytopenia but with reduced number of megakaryocytes in the bone marrow, as against ITP. Though AAT is a well described entity, peripheral nervous system manifestations have not been described so far. We report a young man who has presented with bleeding diathesis and mononeuritis multiplex due to AAT. The mechanism of development of mononeuritis multiplex and treatment options are discussed.
Pediatric stiff-person syndrome with renal failure
Authors: Kumar M. Veerendra , Savida P.
Published: September 2015

Stiff-person syndrome (SPS) is an autoimmune neuronitis with progressive myoclonus and stiffness. It is a rare but treatable disorder with few case reports in children. SPS is due to autoantibodies against the enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase which is present in neuronal and nonneuronal tissues. This is the case report of an 8-year-old boy with clinical and investigational features suggestive of SPS with associated myoglobin-induced renal failure, who completely recovered with treatment.
A toe that pointed the wrong way: An unusual presentation of tetanus
Authors: Chatterjee Krishnarpan , Ghosh Anirban , Sengupta Rimi Som
Published: September 2015

We report the case of a 15-year-old girl who was initially diagnosed to have a striatal toe. Her condition progressed and she later developed clinical features consistent with tetanus. History of blunt trauma to nose was elicited retrospectively. Antimicrobial therapy with metronidazole and both active and passive immunization was started immediately. The patient went on to make a complete recovery.
Spinal cord compression secondary to vertebral echinococcosis
Authors: Sahlu Abat , Mesfin Brook , Tirsit Abenezer , Wester Knut
Published: September 2015

We describe a patient with progressive lower limb weakness and paresthesia 3 days after falling from a considerable height. Magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography revealed collapsed Th2 and Th3 vertebrae. A tuberculous (TB) spondylitis was suspected, and anti-TB medication was started however with no clinical improvement. She was referred to our center and operated. A 3 level discectomy and 2 level corpectomy were performed with iliac bone grafting and anterior plating via an anterior cervical approach. The patient developed an esophagocutaneous fistula that was repaired and cured. The biopsy specimen showed a hydatid cyst of the vertebra as the cause of the lesion. After the result, she was started on oral albendazole. At follow-up nearly 4 months after surgery, the patient had regained significant power in her lower limbs with a muscular strength of 5/5 in both legs, thus making it possible to walk without support.
Benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes: Relationship between type of seizures and response to medication in a Greek population
Authors: Gkampeta Anastasia , Fidani Liana , Zafeiriou Dimitrio , Pavlou Evangelos
Published: September 2015

Purpose: Benign epilepsy with centrotemporal spikes (BECTS) is considered to be the most common childhood epileptic syndrome. We studied the relationship between the type of seizures and response to medication in a Greek population. Materials and Methods: We studied 60 neurodevelopmentally normal children diagnosed with BECTS. Children were subdivided into three groups, based on type of seizures: Group A comprised 32 children with generalized tonic-clonic seizures, Group B 19 children with focal seizures and Group C 9 children with focal seizures with secondary generalization. All patients in the present study were started on an antiepileptic medication after the third seizure (sodium valproate, carbamazepine, and oxcarbazepine), and we studied the response to medication. Results: 10 from 13 (76.92%) of patients in Group A, 13 from 15 (86.66%) patients in Group B, and all 6 patients (100%) in Group C started carbamazepine or oxcarbazepine had a favorable respond. Similarly, 16 from 19 (84.2%) of patients in Group A, 3 from 4 patients (75%) in Group B, and 1 from 3 patients (33.3%) in Group C, started sodium valproate responded well to medication. Conclusions: The majority of children responded well to the first antiepileptic treatment and had a favorable outcome, regardless of type of seizures. 88.3% of children became seizure free by 1 or 2 years after seizure onset. These findings are indicative that the type of seizures has no major effect neither in response to antiepileptic treatment or in the final outcome. Further research in a larger number of children is needed.