bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DETECTING DISASTER DAMAGE FROM 2015 TYPHOON ETAU BY THE COMBINED USE OF DIFFERENT SAR SATELLITES
Authors: Honda Kenichi , Fujihira Kei , Asada Norichika , Fukushima Ayumi , Mushiake Naruo
Published: June 2016

Abstract. In this study, focusing on the flood damages in Joso City in Ibaraki Prefecture, we estimated the extent of inundation using multiple SAR satellites and examined their varied results depending on observational bands. We further examined the potential utilization of combined different SAR data for initial responses to disasters. For classification of the inundated areas, a binary classification was used with a threshold of backscatter coefficient and the difference in backscatter coefficient between the usual condition and the situation after the breach. In the extraction of inundation after the breach of the levee, COSMO-SkyMed showed the accuracy of 72.6%, while ALOS-2 PALSAR-2 indicated the accuracy of 66.1%. The extent of inundation were extracted by difference of backscatter coefficient using the data taken by Sentinel-1 and ALOS-2 PALSAR-2 before the breach of the levee, and the comparison analysis results showed that the extent of inundation expanded after the breach of the levee. From the above results, we graded the characteristics of the satellites by their observational bands and spatial resolution.
Approaches to calibrate in-situ capacitance soil moisture sensors and some of their implications
Authors: Archer N. A. L. , Rawlins B. R. , Machant B. P. , Mackay J. D. , Meldrum P. I.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Capacitance probes are increasingly being used to monitor volumetric water content (VWC) in field conditions and are provided with in-built factory calibrations so they can be deployed at a field site without the requirement for local calibration. These calibrations may not always have acceptable accuracy and therefore to improve the accuracy of such calibrations soil-specific laboratory or field calibrations are required. In some cases, manufacturers suggest calibration is undertaken on soil in which the structure has been removed (through sieving or grinding), whilst in other cases manufacturers suggest structure may be retained. The objectives of this investigation were to (i) demonstrate the differences in laboratory calibration of the sensors using both structured and unstructured soils, (ii) compare moisture contents at a range of suctions with those predicted from soil moisture release curves for their texture classes (iii) compare the magnitude of errors for field measurements of soil moisture based on the original factory calibrations and the laboratory-based calibrations using structured soil. Grinding and sieving clay soils to  50 % water to the ground and sieved soil samples, dielectric values to VWC > 50 % were observed to be significantly lower than using undisturbed soil cores taken from the field and therefore undisturbed soil cores were considered to be better to calibrate capacitance probes. Generic factory calibrations for most soil sensors have a range of measurement from 0 to 50 %, which is not appropriate for the studied clay-rich soil, where ponding can occur during persistent rain events, which are common in temperate regions.
RM Pressfit® Cup: Good Preliminary Results at 5 to 8 Years Follow-Up for 189 Patients
Authors: Erivan Roger , Eymond Gabriel , Villatte Guillaume , Mulliez Aurélien , Myriam Galvin , Descamps Stéphane , Boisgard Stéphane
Published: June 2016

Aim

The RM Classic® cup shows very good results. The RM Pressfit® cup has an equatorial pressfit; it is a monoblock implant without metalback. The aim of this study was to evaluate retrospectively the survival of this implant, monitoring patients for at least 5 years in all consecutive cases operated in our centre.

Methods

Between February 2006 and December 2008, our department performed 189 consecutive nonselected primary total hip arthroplasties using the RM® Pressfit cup, and all of these were included in the study. The operative technique involved an anterolateral approach. The latest follow-up evaluation was performed at a minimum of 5 years after the index arthroplasty.

Results

The mean follow-up was 6.5 years (5-8 years). We had preoperative information for 186 of the 189 patients. 102 patients were seen in consultation (54.0%), 46 (24.3%) patients were contacted by phone, 37 (19.6%) patients died, and 4 patients (2.1%) were lost for unknown reasons. Of the 189 arthroplasties, 6 (3.2%) required revision; 4 (2.1%) for infection, 1 (0.5%) for significant haematoma with persistent deglobulisation and 1 (0.5%) for periprosthetic calcification during the 5 to 8 years following the operation. No hip was revised because of aseptic loosening. The mean annual wear rate based on the last follow-up at 5 years minimum was 0.065 mm per year. We observed no migration, 1 femoral loosening and no acetabular loosening.

Conclusions

Our study finds a good survival rate which is compatible with the 94% at 20 years with RM Classic®. These results are suggestive but must be confirmed with long-term studies.
Anodic Oxidation as a Means to Produce Memristive Films
Authors: Diamanti Maria Vittoria , Pisoni Riccardo , Cologni Andrea , Brenna Andrea , Corinto Fernando , Pedeferri MariaPia
Published: June 2016

Purpose

In the past few years there has been growing interest in memristive devices. These devices rely on thin metal oxide films with a peculiar structure and composition, making precise control of oxide features vital. To this end, anodic oxidation allows a very large range of oxides to be formed on the surface of valve metals, whose thickness, structure and functional properties depend on the process parameters introduced. This work reports how memristive anodic oxides were obtained on titanium and other valve metals, such as niobium and tantalum.

Methods

Anodic oxidation was performed on valve metals by immersion in H2SO4 or H3PO4 electrolytes and application of voltages ranging from 10 to 90 V. The memristive behavior was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry.

Results

The behavior of differently grown oxides was compared to identify the best conditions to achieve good memristive performances. High voltages were identified as not suitable due to the excessive oxide thickness, while below 20 V the film was not thick and uniform enough to give a good response. Surface preparation also played a major role in the observation of memristive properties.

Conclusions

Optimal surface preparation and anodizing conditions were seen to give high memristive perfomances on both titanium and niobium oxides, while on tantalum oxides no reproducibility was achieved.
Evaluation of Physical Properties of a Nanocomposite after Aging, Bleaching and Staining
Authors: Gouveia Thayla H.N. , Públio Juliana C. , Ambrosano Gláucia M.B. , Paulillo Luís A.M.S. , Aguiar Flávio H.B. , Lima Débora A.N.L.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

The objective of the in vitro study was to assess the effect accelerated artificial aging, bleaching agents and coffee staining on the color, gloss, roughness and microhardness of a nanocomposite.

Materials and Methods

120 (7 × 2 mm) were prepared and randomly divided into 2 groups (n = 60) depending on the aging. Each group was further subdivided into 6 subgroups (n = 10) according to the bleaching and staining as follows: 10% carbamide peroxide (10% CP), 10% CP + staining, 35% hydrogen peroxide (35% HP), 35% HP + staining, without bleaching treatment (WB) and WB + staining. Scanning electron microscopy was performed for qualitative analysis of the resin surface. Data were submitted to 3-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test for multiple comparisons. As for ∆E, multiple comparisons were performed by using Tukey's and Dunnett's tests (α = 0.05).

Results

The bleaching reduced significantly the microhardness of the nanocomposite in without aging groups. All physical properties were found to be negatively changed after the aging process, with bleaching treatment with 10% CP increasing significantly the roughness and loss of gloss compared to the 35% HP. Staining reduced microhardness of both with and without aging nanocomposite as well as the color of the former ( E>25), a significantly different result compared to controls.

Conclusions

The bleaching reduced the microhardness of the nanocomposite, whereas the aging process changed all the properties studied. The bleaching favored extrinsic staining of the with aging nanocomposite.
Function Evaluation of Asphalt Mixture with Industrially Produced BOF Slag Aggregate
Authors: Zhao Meiling , Wu Shaopeng , Chen Zongwu , Li Chao
Published: June 2016

Background

Laboratory research suggested that basic oxygen furnace (BOF) slag-based asphalt mixture was a functional material. However, the BOF slag aggregate's quality was difficult to control when it was heavily used in entity engineering.

Aims

The primary objective of this research was to evaluate the functional performances of asphalt mixture containing BOF slag coarse aggregate (BSCA), which was from an industrialized production line.

Methods

Limestone mixture was a control group. The Marshall method was first adopted to design asphalt mixtures. The performances of limestone asphalt mixture and BOF slag asphalt mixture including fatigue failure resistance and moisture stability were then evaluated and compared.

Results

Results showed that the asphalt mixture containing BSCA possessed better durability, which meant the quality of BSCA from industrialized production lines was well controlled and this BSCA can be heavily used in entity engineering.
Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1 Expression Predicts Osteosarcoma Patients’ Survival: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ouyang Yurong , Li Hui , Bu Jie , Li Xiaoyang , Chen Zhuoyuan , Xiao Tao
Published: June 2016

Osteosarcoma, the most common primary bone malignancy, is characterized by easily relapsing and metastasizing. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) plays an essential role in tumorigenesis, affecting tumor metabolism, differentiation, angiogenesis, proliferation and metastasis, and has been found to be associated with survival in patients with osteosarcoma. The possible prognostic value of HIF-1 was investigated in many studies, but the results were inconsistent. We therefore conducted a meta-analysis to elucidate the correlation of HIF-1 expression, analyzed by immunohistochemistry in osteosarcoma tissues, with prognosis. The association degree was assessed by calculation of the hazard ratio (HR) and risk ratio (RR) with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Follow-up information was available for 486 patients from 7 studies. The results showed that high HIF-1 expression was associated with a worse prognosis when compared to low or undetectable HIF-1 expression, with an HR of 3.67 (95% CI 2.24-5.99; p<0.001) for overall survival (OS) and an RR of 3.72 (95% CI 2.26-6.13; p<0.001) for OS. The RR of 2.55 for disease-free survival (DFS) did not show any obvious relationship between a high level of HIF-1 and DFS (95% CI 0.95-6.87; p = 0.064). The stability of this result was tested by sensitivity analysis and no significant change was detected. This meta-analysis suggests that HIF-1 is an effective prognostic biomarker to predict OS in patients with osteosarcoma.
Preoperative Vessel Mapping in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients - a Center Experience
Authors: Barreto Patrícia , Almeida Paulo , de Matos Norton , Queirós José Alexandre , Pinheiro Joaquim , Silva Fernanda , Carvalho Telmo , Almeida Rui , Cabrita António
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Hemodialysis (HD) is the main treatment modality in stage 5 chronic kidney disease, and vascular access planning is a crucial step in the path to dialysis treatment. Beyond detailed patient history and physical examination, duplex ultrasound (DU) evaluation is essential in preoperative vascular mapping.

Methods

A retrospective descriptive nonrandomized study was performed and included 108 end-stage kidney disease patients referred from eight HD centers to be assessed for creation of an arteriovenous (AV) access (AV fistula or AV graft). We assessed primary failure, primary unassisted patency (PP) and primary assisted patency (PAP) rates and cumulative survival of AV accesses at 6 and 12 months.

Results

We created 86 AV accesses of which 79 (91.9%) were AV fistulas (AVFs) (29 distal AVFs, 49 proximal AVFs and 1 femorofemoral AVF) and 7 (8.1%) arteriovenous grafts (AVGs). Fifteen percent (15%) (n = 12) of primary failure occurred in the AVF group. Any case of primary failure was observed between AVGs. In the AVF group, PP at 6 months was 63.8% and at 12 months was 48.3%, PAP was 80.7% at 6 and 12 months. PP excluding primary failures was 73.0% and 55.3% at 6 and 12 months, respectively. The cumulative survival at 6 and 12 months was 80.7%. In the AVG group, PP at 6 months and 12 months was 66.7%, PAP and cumulative survival at 6 and 12 months were of 100%.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that preoperative vascular mapping with a patient-centered approach may be critical to achieve good outcomes allowing the increase in AVF access.
Hemodialysis Patients' Satisfaction and Perspectives on Complications associated with Vascular Access Related Interventions: Are We Listening?
Authors: Kosa Sarah D. , Bhola Cynthia , Lok Charmaine E.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

To understand the patient's perspective on complications associated with vascular access-related interventions.

Methods

A multi-stage comprehensive questionnaire of over 150 items was administered to 140 in-center hemodialysis patients in a large, Toronto-based academic-based facility from May 1, 2011 until July 1, 2014. The questionnaire was divided into three domains: physical complications, disruption to routine, and infection. For each of the 12 prespecified vascular access interventions, there were 9 items about the associated complications. The level of bother associated with complications was measured using a 5-point Likert scale.

Results

The mean Likert value (5 = extremely bothered) for the physical complications domain was highest for grafts at 1.92, followed closely by fistulas at 1.87, and catheters at 1.56. The mean Likert value for the “disruption of routine” domain was highest for catheters at 1.44, followed by grafts at 1.37, and fistulas at 1.33. For infectious complications of all vascular access-related interventions the mean Likert value was highest at 1.76 for catheters as compared to fistulas at 1.23 and grafts at 1.22.

Conclusions

For hemodialysis patients, the physical complications associated with needle cannulation of fistulas and grafts are a major source of dissatisfaction, while infectious complications, including catheter-related infections, are not a significant source of their concerns. Future research should focus on developing methods to effectively: (i) reduce the fear and pain associated with cannulation and (ii) educate patients about the risks associated with vascular access-related infection.
An Update of the Effect of Far Infrared Therapy on Arteriovenous Access in End-stage Renal Disease Patients
Authors: Chen Chun-Fan , Yang Wu-Chang , Lin Chih-Ching
Published: June 2016

The life qualities of end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients rely largely on adequate dialysis, and a well-functioning vascular access is indispensable for high quality hemodialysis. Despite the advancement of surgical skills and the optimal maintenance of arteriovenous fistula (AVF), malfunction of AVF is still frequently encountered and has great impact on the life of ESRD patients. Several medical, mechanical and genetic prognostic factors are documented to affect the patency of AVF and arteriovenous graft (AVG). Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is one of the genetic factors reported to play a role in cardiovascular disease and the patency of vascular access. Far infrared (FIR), a novel therapeutic modality, can not only conduct heat energy to AVF but also stimulate the non-thermal reactions mediated by HO-1. The use of FIR therapy significantly enhances the primary patency rate and maturation of AVF with fewer unfavorable adverse effects, and also achieves higher post-angioplasty patency rate for AVG. The only limitation in proving the effectiveness of FIR therapy in enhancing patency of AVF is that all the studies were conducted in Chinese people in Taiwan and thus, there is a lack of evidence and experience in people of other ethnicities.
Dilator-assisted Banding and Beyond: Proposing an Algorithm for Managing Dialysis Access-associated Steal Syndrome
Authors: Wang Shouwen , Asif Arif , Jennings William C.
Published: June 2016

Purpose

Dialysis access-associated steal syndrome (DASS) is a major complication of arteriovenous hemodialysis accesses. Although its underlying pathology is diverse, it is most often associated with excessive access flow. Dilator-assisted banding (DAB) is a simple flow-reduction technique that we described previously. This report is to illustrate the expansion of DAB and analyze the outcome of DAB in managing DASS.

Methods

From February 2011 to April 2015, 30 patients underwent DAB for DASS. Their relevant clinical data were retrospectively reviewed or prospectively collected, and further analyzed statistically.

Results

Of the 30 patients, 23 had an arteriogram and 3 required angioplasty ± stent placement for inflow artery stenosis. Besides intraluminal DAB (12/30), this report also included extraluminal DAB (14/30) and open fistula reduction plus DAB (4/30). After DAB, the severity scores of DASS were reduced from 2.8 ± 0.4 to 0.2 ± 0.4 for the fistula group (n = 24, p<0.001) and from 3.0 ± 0.0 to 1.2 ± 1.2 for the graft group (n = 6, p = 0.041). DAB was effective in all but two graft patients who subsequently underwent proximalization of arterial inflow (PAI) that resulted in resolution of DASS. During follow-up of 18.7 ± 14.5 months (range 1-50), all accesses remained functional. At 24-months post-DAB, the primary patency, primary-assisted patency and secondary patency rates of the fistula group were 72%, 91% and 100%, respectively.

Conclusions

DAB is a simple, effective and versatile approach for managing DASS. PAI may be employed for rescue or as primary choice when banding is ineffective. Based on our data and the literature, an algorithm is proposed for managing DASS.
Prospective Evaluation of the Learning Curve for Ultrasound-guided Peripheral Intravenous Catheter Placement
Authors: Stolz Lori A. , Cappa Anthony R. , Minckler Michael R. , Stolz Uwe , Wyatt Ryan G. , Binger Carl W. , Amini Richard , Adhikari Srikar
Published: June 2016

Introduction

It is unclear how many ultrasound-guided peripheral intravenous catheters (USG PIVC) one must place to become proficient at the procedure. The objective of this study was to determine the learning curve associated with PIVC placement and determine how many attempts are required for non-physician learners to reach proficiency.

Methods

This is a prospective observational study. Emergency department (ED) nurses and paramedics with competence in traditional PIVC placement underwent a USG PIVC placement training program. Their success or failure in placing USG PIVCs as part of patient care on ED patients with difficult IV access was monitored. Number of attempts (defined as one skin puncture) was recorded and success was defined as the ability to aspirate blood and flush saline. The probability of success over time was analyzed. Proficiency was defined a priori as 70% probability of success.

Results

Thirty-three providers with 1077 PIV access attempts on 796 patients over 1000 unique patient ED encounters were included in the study. Overall success rate for all providers was 88.24% (86.3%-90.2%). LOcally WEighted Scatter-plot Smoother (Lowess) smoothing and mixed effects logistic regression analysis both determined that a learner's probability of success would be greater than 70% after four USG PIVCs have been placed. Post hoc analysis for a more stringent 88% success rate resulted in 15 and 26 required attempts, respectively.

Discussion

After placement of four USG PIVCs, new learners of the procedure are capable of a greater than 70% success rate. A success rate of greater than 88% is achieved after 15 to 26 attempts.
Novel Endovascular Technique for Removal of Adherent PICC
Authors: Le Julie , Grigorian Areg , Chen Samuel , Kuo Isabella J. , Fujitani Roy M. , Kabutey Nii-Kabu
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) are a popular alternative to central venous lines. PICCs can provide reliable long-term access for intravenous fluids, antibiotics and total parenteral nutrition. Multiple factors can contribute to difficult PICC removal including adherent fibrin and thrombus formation around the catheter. We discuss a novel endovascular retrieval technique to remove tightly adherent PICCs.

Case presentation

A 42-year-old male with history of chronic pancreatitis requiring intravenous pain medications, presented with right upper extremity single lumen PICC that could not be removed by standard techniques. The PICC line had been in place for approximately three years and was no longer functioning appropriately. Ultrasonography demonstrated thrombus alongside the length of the PICC.

Results

In order to remove the PICC we utilized a novel endovascular technique. A 0.018” mandril wire was passed through the lumen of the PICC. Next, a puncture alongside the PICC was performed to place a 6 French (Fr) sheath. A snare was then maneuvered through the sheath and used to capture the tip of the mandril wire. The snare, mandril wire and PICC where withdrawn in unison, looping the PICC tip within the basilic vein. The tip of the PICC was positioned near the antecubital fossa. A small incision was performed to capture the tip of the PICC to remove the catheter.

Discussion

Tightly adherent PICCs can result after prolonged intraluminal dwell times. We describe a novel endovascular technique that can be utilized for safe and successful removal of difficult embedded PICCs.
Forord
Authors: Selmer Randi , Brenn Tormod
Published: June 2016

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Noen statistiske modeller innen romlig epidemiologi
Authors: Aamodt Geir
Published: June 2016

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Segurança no cuidado em cirurgias: onde estamos?
Authors: Grazziano Eliane da Silva
Published: June 2016

A temática sobre a segurança em cirurgia surgiu como meta do segundo desafio global lançado pela Aliança Mundial para a Segurança do Paciente, da Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS), entre 2007 e 2008, tendo como marco a campanha “Cirurgia Segura Salva Vidas”. Tal campanha teve como objetivo estimular os gestores de instituições hospitalares, bem como os profissionais de saúde, a mobilizarem esforços no sentido de elencar um padrão de práticas que: promovesse a segurança em cirurgia, fosse aplicável em qualquer parte do mundo e em diferentes cenários cirúrgicos, permitisse a mensuração de indicadores visando a promoção de vigilância epidemiológica. Desses esforços surgiram protocolos assistenciais e listas de verificação cirúrgica aplicáveis no intraoperatório. A lista de verificação mais conhecida é o Time Out, e sua utilização é um dos requisitos de várias instituições acreditadoras, dentre elas a The Joint Commission, que criou o seu protocolo universal. Os resultados satisfatórios da aplicação do Time Out são inegáveis e a cada dia mais profissionais de saúde envolvidos com o cenário cirúrgico estão mudando de hábito e “parando” para responder ao checklist e confirmar se aquele paciente a ser submetido a uma cirurgia é o paciente certo, se o procedimento a ser realizado é o correto, se o sítio cirúrgico a ser abordado é o correto, dentre outras importantes informações. Porém, outras atividades relacionadas ao procedimento anestésico cirúrgico, mas que não ocorrem no momento de início da cirurgia, são de suma importância para a promoção da segurança do paciente e devem ser valoradas. Podemos citar o gerenciamento da limpeza ambiental, a gestão de custos, o adequado processamento dos artigos de assistência à saúde, o dimensionamento adequado de pessoal no bloco cirúrgico, a capacitação permanente da equipe de enfermagem diante das novas tecnologias, a assistência de enfermagem na recuperação anestésica e a comunicação entre as equipes. Embora o desafio global “Cirurgia Segura Salva Vidas” tenha sido lançado há oito anos, percebe-se que ainda há um longo caminho a percorrer na promoção da segurança em cirurgia e, mais do que o preenchimento do checklist, os profissionais envolvidos com o ato anestésico-cirúrgico devem resgatar as origens de sua formação humanística e ética. Essa é uma tarefa de todos os envolvidos no processo: profissionais, educadores, pesquisadores, pacientes e gestores. Sugiro um questionamento simples, para verificar o quanto estamos colaborando para esse processo: “caso eu necessite de um procedimento anestésico-cirúrgico, o quanto me sentiria seguro em ser submetido a uma cirurgia em meu próprio local de trabalho?”.Profa. Dra. Eliane da Silva Grazziano Professora adjunta do Departamento de Enfermagem da UFSCar, São Paulo (SP), Brasil
Maturity Level of Rural Leaders in Selected Paddy Farming Technologies in Muda Agricultural Development Authority (MADA) -Malaysia
Authors: Aziz Masso Wisam Yako , Man Norsida
Published: June 2016

To provide good leadership it is necessary for individuals and groups to help bring a rural community to action. As the rural leaders play a function in important programs in agricultural extension. However, The study was conducted to determine the maturity of rural leaders based on maturity model theory towards agricultural technologies In Malaysia Paddy Farming, and explore the relationship between the selected characteristics of the respondents. Data were collected through personal interview from 260 randomly selected in muda agriculture development authority MADA area. A five point Likert scale was used to determine the maturity of rural leaders ranged from 1 = never to 5= always.The majority (63.1%) of the respondents had a moderate level of maturity. The correlation analysis between socio-demographic characteristics and maturity level show that there is a positive and significant relationship between variables age and years of experience in paddy farming, at 0.05 level of significance.
The Role of Natural Contradictions in Creation of Good and Evil Beliefs
Authors: Dadvar Abolghasem , Rouzbahani Roya
Published: June 2016

Natural elements play significant role in Iranian legends. Water, mountain, earth, sky, sun, moon, stars, wind, plants, animals, rain, and fire are among natural effective and mythopoeic forces. Generally, structure of Iranian myths is a kind of believe to dichotomy in nature, in human and in contradictory forces available in the world. One of the most important aspects of this contradiction is continuous battle between good and evil. Since Iran with diverse natural geography is the land of great conflicts, main issue in this research is determining the role of natural conflicts in creating good and evil beliefs in Iranian myths. In this study, data are gathered using documentary sources and research method is comparative, descriptive, and qualitative analyses. There is natural contradiction in every land in nature and natural geography. Results indicate that among different causes that lead to formation of myths, nature and its available conflicts have great role in creation of such beliefs. 
Sufficiency Economy Philosophy: A Holistic Approach to Economic Development and Mainstream Economic Thought
Authors: Mongsawad Prasopchoke , Thongpakde Nattapong
Published: June 2016

The theories of mainstream economics have been criticised for triggering periodic crises and fluctuations, as well as causing resource depletion and environmental degradation. Also, they are accused of worsening the problems of poverty and income distribution, while ignoring the well-being of people and social issues. The Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, bestowed by His Majesty, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, for Thai people in 1997 as a tool to cope with economic adversity, is an alternative way of viewing development. The essence of the Philosophy is that people should act with due consideration, and in moderation. The Philosophy emphasizes moral behaviour by people and society, which mainstream economic thought lacks. Incorporating such human behaviours as moderation and morality into economic decision making is sensible and yields different outcomes from the typical economic framework. Moderation serves as a tool to filter out greed and consumerist behaviour. Morality leads an individual to consider the consequence of his/her actions to others and to society. Together with the reasonableness concept implying non-excessive risk taking behaviour, under the Philosophy an economy will have reduced economic fluctuations, less likelihood of an economic crisis, and sustained quality growth. The Sufficiency Economy Philosophy will make its mark in the economic development arena as an alternative thought system that works for the people and the economy.
Factors that Influence the Intention to Adopt Halal Logistics Services among Malaysian SMEs: Formation of Hypotheses and Research Model
Authors: Mohamad Husny Zuhra Junaida Binti Ir , Mohammed Hussein Muhammad Zaly Shah Bin , Illyas Tan Mohd Iskandar Bin
Published: June 2016

This study was aim to understand the influence of adoption factors on the intention of adopting an innovation (Halal Logistics) among Malaysian Halal SMEs. This research employed a quantitative research design using survey research method. Four objectives were established. The first is to formulate a model that identifies the influence of adoption factors on innovation (Halal Logistics) adoption intention among Malaysian Halal SMEs. This was achieved through literature reviews and preliminary study. Five halal compliant logistics service providers (LSPs) were contacted through phone and email correspondences. Seven research hypotheses were derived and seven factors that influenced the innovation (Halal Logistics) adoption intention were identified: the presence of familiarity with innovation, status characteristics, position in social network as internal factors as well as benefit, geographical setting, societal culture and political condition as external factors. The second objective is to develop an instrument that can be used to measure the influence of adoption factors on adoption intention among Halal SMEs.
The Public Knowledge and Custom with the Inheritance Division According to Islamic Law
Authors: Syafei Oleh Zakaria
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this reseach is to determine Public Knowledge and Custom Toward The Division of Inheritance According to Islamic Law in Banjarsari Village,District of Cipocok Jaya, Serang City, Banten, Indonesiawhich in terms of respondents demographics is gender respondents. Theresearchwas conducted using a quantitative approach with descriptive and inferential methods, inferential methods using correlation analysis, T-test, and multiple regression analysis.The research data collection is using instrumentquestionwith Likert scale questions. The objects in this research are the people whom are around the VillageOffice Banjarsari, District Cipocok Jaya, SerangCity, Banten, Indonesia. Based on the results of research noted that general knowledge and customary inheritance in the community has the highest value it found a relationship between common knowledge and customary with inheritance division according to Islam. For that need the continuous efforts of the relevant parties (scholars, community leaders, and government) to provide insight and guidance as well as a clear idea of the inheritance division based on the teachings of the Islamic religion.
Courtship Initiation Behaviour in Online Personals
Authors: Bakar Kesumawati A.
Published: June 2016

A personal advertisement has two aims; to promote its author and to attract potential love interest. In addition to providing textual information about physical appearance, occupation and interests, accompanying images in personal ads create meanings that are instrumental in building imaginary relations between the advertiser and the readers. This paper explores the notions of body language and interpersonal attitude and courtship initiation behaviour in online personal ads. Using Kress & van Leeuwen’s Grammar of Visual Design (2006) and Mehrabian’s dominant and affiliative dimensions (1981) this study examines how interpersonal relations are represented through the embodiment of affiliative and non-affiliative attitudes in images. Analysis of 581 images reveals several common visual personas through specific clusters of bodily stance and facial articulation that are instrumental in creating and establishing represented affiliation between the participants in the images and the viewers. As such this study is a contribution to scholars working in the area of visual analysis, identity and social semiotics as it identifies non-verbal realizations of affiliative and non-affiliative attitudes and demonstrates their interaction through a corpus-based analysis of personal ad images.
Parenting Stress and Family Functioning of Commuter Family in Malaysia
Authors: Arshat Zarinah , Pai Farah Syuhada , Ismail Zanariah , Baharudin Rozumah
Published: June 2016

This study aims to determine relationship between parenting stress and family functioning as well as to explore the effects of gender on the aforementioned stress and functioning variables among commuter family. A total of 72 couples of commuter family were involved in this study. Result showed that higher parenting stress relate to less satisfactory family functioning. The study also revealed that there was no significance differences in perception on parenting stress and family functioning between husband and wife of commuter family. Government and non-government sectors can used the results of the study to provide programs that can help commuter families to deal and cope with the challenges. Finally, future research is needed to take in-depth look with other variable exists and replicated with different population.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Asian Social Science, Vol. 12, No. 7
Authors: Zhang Jenny
Published: June 2016

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Asian Social Science, Vol. 12, No. 7, 2016.
Social Interactions among Multi-Ethnic Students
Authors: Hashim Abdul Talib , Bakar Noor Insyiraah Abu , Mamat Nordin , Razali Abdul Rahim
Published: June 2016

Positive social interaction is a vital aspect of maintaining a harmonious condition, especially in Malaysia, a country which has a multiracial society. Therefore, this study was carried out to identify the patterns of social interactions among multiethnic students in national secondary schools in Malaysia. The respondents for this study comprise two school administrators, seven teachers and 20 students of various ethnicities. They were selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected through interview sessions either individually or in focus groups, observation and document analysis. The study’s findings showed that, there are five patterns of social interaction such as cooperation, exchange, competition, conflict and non-verbal communication among multiethnic students. Although there was conflict, the underlying causes of the conflict were not due to racial issues. As well as the five patterns of social interactions stated above, stereotypes were also reported among students. Despite conflicts and stereotypes, the students actively attempted to learn about other cultures and demonstrated attitudes of acceptance towards friends from other ethnic backgrounds. This indicates that the social interaction among students is still favorable and can be further improved through appropriate response. Additionally, based on these findings, a few recommendations were made regarding this issue.
Saudi Women’s Attitudes toward Physical Activity: An Interventional Approach to Improving Future Health
Authors: Al-Haramlah Ahmed Abdulrahman , Merza Haniah , Albakr Fawziah
Published: June 2016

The aim of this research was to provide evidence to support physical activity initiatives that improve the quality of life of women in Saudi Arabia. Research on Saudi women correlates higher incidence of obesity, diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, and osteoporosis to the lack of exercise in Saudi women’s lifestyle. Hence, this study uses an interventional approach to support efforts that encourage physical activity in Saudi women. A pilot sample of 80 females was interviewed to secure the validity and reliability of the preliminary instrument. The final version of the instrument, consists of (63) items, was distributed to a sample consists of 1233 females aged 15 and up from four main regions in KSA. The results indicate that awareness and positive attitudes toward physical activity exist. Improvement of quality of life can be as simple as lessening the practical impediments. Hopefully, this kind of evidence can better inform decision makers to be more proactive in providing government funded facilities.
Appreciation Pressures and Real Depreciation: The Experience with the Swiss Franc-Euro Exchange Rate Floor
Authors: Rotheli Tobias F.
Published: June 2016

We study the course of the Swiss price level during the recent episode where Switzerland enforced a floor on the Swiss Franc exchange rate relative to the Euro. Given the strong nominal upward pressure on the Swiss currency the introduced limit of 1.20 Francs per Euro led to a quasi-fixed exchange rate from 2011 until early 2015. This measure was specifically aimed at helping the firms of the Swiss export sector to compete internationally. A further reason for imposing this floor was the Swiss National Bank’s concern with deflationary pressures. Interestingly, it turned out that during the episode with a quasi-fixed exchange rate the Swiss price level came under downward pressure. We offer an analysis that helps to understand this depreciation of the Swiss currency in real terms which in fact contributed to the exchange rate floor being eventually abandoned. The article thus clarifies some intricate mechanisms affecting the choice of exchange rate policies which are so important for firms in the export sector. As a theoretical contribution (complementing the well-known Balassa-Samuelson analysis) the article presents a computable equilibrium model that explains real exchange rate variations with diverging trends in the productivity growth of the non-traded goods sectors of economies.
Analysis of Citrinin in Cereals, Red Yeast Rice Dietary Supplement, and Animal Feed by Immunoaffinity Column Cleanup and LC with Fluorescence Detection
Authors: Marley Elaine , Brown Phyllis , Leeman Dave , Donnelly Carol
Published: June 2016

The analysis of citrinin in various cereals (wheat, oats, maize, rice, and rye and multigrain breakfast cereal), red yeast rice (dietary supplement and traditional medicine), distillers dried grain with solubles, and barley (animal feed) was carried out using a citrinin immunoaffinity column (IAC) for sample cleanup before LC analysis with fluorescence detection (LC-fluorescence). To establish method performance characteristics, wheat was spiked with citrinin at levels of 10–200 μg/kg, whereas red yeast rice was spiked at levels of 100–3000 μg/kg. Methanol–water (75 + 25, v/v) was used for the extraction of cereals and animal feed, and extraction was with 100% methanol for red yeast rice. Cleanup used a commercial citrinin IAC, followed by LC-fluorescence (λex, 330 nm; λem, 500 nm). Recoveries ranged from 80 to 110%, with r from 0.7 to 4.3%. The LOQ for citrinin in both wheat and red yeast rice was 10 μg/kg, with an LOD of 3 μg/kg. Satisfactory performance was demonstrated in a proficiency testing exercise for a sample of maize contaminated with both citrinin and ochratoxin A. It was concluded that the commercial citrinin IAC was capable of providing an efficient and effective cleanup of complex food and feed matrixes to enable citrinin to be reliably determined with the specific LC-fluorescence system used.
Implementación de un método para alcanzar un paisaje resiliente mediante la ubicación apropiada de edificaciones rurales
Authors: Jeong Jin Su , García Moruno Lorenzo , González Gómez David , Carver Steve
Published: June 2016

Suitable location planning of rural buildings is a complex process to be in harmony with landscapes. This paper presents a multi-criteria spatial decision analysis approach using GIS techniques. The research aim is to evaluate the study area suitability to sustainably site tourism rural commercial buildings with landscapes. The criteria weights were decided by the authors with relevant literatures, regional polices and European Union (EU) directives and experts’ discussion. The results reveal the most suitable areas for siting them, not to find a single suitable solution. They explain the weighting flexibility strengths of the application in the decision making process.
La consubstantialité comme approche critique du droit : le rôle du droit civil québécois relativement aux apparentes contradictions dans la classe des femmes par rapport au droit du logement
Authors: Laperrière Marie-Neige
Published: June 2016

Cet article souhaite offrir de nouveaux outils épistémologiques et méthodologiques à la théorie critique du droit. Il expose en trois étapes comment le cadre conceptuel et méthodologique qu’offre la consubstantialité permet de mieux comprendre le rôle du droit positif dans la production et la reproduction dynamique des rapports sociaux. Pour illustrer cette approche, ce texte prend appui sur les apparentes contradictions qui traversent la situation des femmes en matière d’habitation. Certaines d’entre elles, dont principalement les femmes chefs d’une famille monoparentale et les femmes âgées, font partie des personnes qui connaissent le plus longtemps des besoins impérieux en matière de logement. À l’opposé, la montée de la popularité de la copropriété semble bénéfique et correspondre à certaines aspirations de liberté pour les femmes. Afin de mieux comprendre ce phénomène paradoxal, nous proposons l’usage de la méthode consubstantielle, qui permet une analyse croisée de l’action des rapports sociaux de classe et de sexe. Cette analyse sera appliquée à un objet précis, soit le Code civil du Québec.
Target-specific membrane potential dynamics of neocortical projection neurons during goal-directed behavior
Authors: Yamashita Takayuki , Petersen Carl CH
Published: June 2016

Goal-directed behavior involves distributed neuronal circuits in the mammalian brain, including diverse regions of neocortex. However, the cellular basis of long-range cortico-cortical signaling during goal-directed behavior is poorly understood. Here, we recorded membrane potential of excitatory layer 2/3 pyramidal neurons in primary somatosensory barrel cortex (S1) projecting to either primary motor cortex (M1) or secondary somatosensory cortex (S2) during a whisker detection task, in which thirsty mice learn to lick for water reward in response to a whisker deflection. Whisker stimulation in ‘Good performer’ mice, but not ‘Naive’ mice, evoked long-lasting biphasic depolarization correlated with task performance in S2-projecting (S2-p) neurons, but not M1-projecting (M1-p) neurons. Furthermore, S2-p neurons, but not M1-p neurons, became excited during spontaneous unrewarded licking in ‘Good performer’ mice, but not in ‘Naive’ mice. Thus, a learning-induced, projection-specific signal from S1 to S2 may contribute to goal-directed sensorimotor transformation of whisker sensation into licking motor output.
Improved n-channel Ge gate stack performance using HfAlO high-k dielectric for various Al concentrations
Authors: Kothari Shraddha , Joishi Chandan , Ghosh Sayantan , Biswas Dipankar , Vaidya Dhirendra , Ganguly Swaroop , Lodha Saurabh
Published: June 2016

We demonstrate improved Ge n-channel gate stack performance versus HfO2 using HfAlO high-k dielectric for a wide (1.5–33%) range of Al% and post-high-k-deposition annealing (PDA) at 400 °C. Addition of Al to HfO2 is shown to mitigate degradation of the GeO2/Ge interface during PDA. HfAlO stacks with an equivalent oxide thickness (EOT) of 8 nm and large Al% exhibit improved transistor mobility (1.8 times higher) and midgap D
it (2 times lower), whereas thin (1.9 nm) EOT HfAlO stacks show reduced gate leakage J
g (by 10 times) and D
it (by 1.5 times) and 1.6 times higher mobility for Al% as low as 1.5% at matched EOT.
Oil-in-water emulsion as fabrication platform for uniform plasmon-controlled two-dimensional metallic nanoparticle array
Authors: Kagawa Ryusuke , Takeyasu Nobuyuki , Kaneta Takashi , Takemoto Yoshito
Published: June 2016

Gold/silver nanoparticles were trapped at the oil/water interface of oil droplets dispersed in water. The metallic nanoparticles were self-assembled into a uniform two-dimensional large array structure through the aggregation and coalescence of the nanoparticle-covered oil droplets. The plasmon resonance of the array structure was tunable and a surface-enhanced Raman scattering measurement was performed with the silver nanoparticle array. The enhancement factor was ∼105 and enhanced Raman signals were observed over the whole array (

) with high reproducibility, which is an advantage of a self-assembly method using a liquid/liquid interface.
Magnetic activity of surface plasmon resonance using dielectric magnetic materials fabricated on quartz glass substrate
Authors: Narushima Kazuki , Ashizawa Yoshito , Brachwitz Kerstin , Hochmuth Holger , Lorenz Michael , Grundmann Marius , Nakagawa Katsuji
Published: June 2016

The magnetic activity of surface plasmons in Au/MFe2O4 (M = Ni, Co, and Zn) polycrystalline bilayer films fabricated on a quartz glass substrate was studied for future magnetic sensor applications using surface plasmon resonance. The excitation of surface plasmons and their magnetic activity were observed in all investigated Au/MFe2O4 films. The magnetic activity of surface plasmons of the polycrystalline Au/NiFe2O4 film was larger than those of the other polycrystalline Au/MFe2O4 films, the epitaxial NiFe2O4 film, and metallic films. The large magnetic activity of surface plasmons of the polycrystalline film is controlled by manipulating surface plasmon excitation conditions and magnetic properties.