bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personal aggrandizement: an insight into Ben Enwonwu’s privilege position in the evolution of Nigerian art
Authors: Oladesu Johnson O.
Published: July 2016

This paper titled Personal Aggrandizement: An Insight into Ben Enwonwu’s Privilege Position in the Evolution of Nigerian Art, looks at the first trained artists. How the artists were classified by their styles either in the naturalistic, the abstract or the expressive imageries. The study examines and compares the contributions of some Nigerian artists like Aina Onabolu, Ben Enwonwu, T. A Fasuyi and B. Akinbola who were one time privileged to have held a post as an adviser to the Federal Government of Nigeria. An interview with Professor Jimo Akolo revealed another dimension to the paper.
From colonialism to neo-colonialism, Christianity in cultural demythologization and ecological crises in the Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Ijaola Samson Oluwatope
Published: July 2016

The ecological crises in the Niger Delta area of Nigeria is not unconnected to several factors, ranging from degradation and pollution; induced as a result of trade with Europe and eventual commercialization of the area by western countries. But all these were not to be if not for the demythologization of the traditional ecological myths through western Christianity. The active role of the missionaries made them accomplices in opening-up of the area to subsequent ecological crises. The paper therefore, aims to establish the argument that the demythologization of the myths that preserve the Niger Delta environment preceded and gave the way for ecological crises that are prevalent in Niger Delta area. The trend of the demythologization observed from the colonial to neo-colonial period, is therefore, instructive in the search for solution for the ecological crises in the Niger Delta area. Findings further shows that the myths were more effective than the government laws and policies on the protection of the environment, and that Christianity has found a replacement for these myths. Using both literal criticism approach the paper suggest a replacement of the myths by a combination of government and Christian efforts being a dominant religion in the area.Keywords: Colonialism, Christianity, Demythologization, Ecological Crises, Neo-colonialism
Writing anxiety: an affective filter for essay writing instruction among ESL students in Ibadan
Authors: Fakeye David O. , Ohia IN
Published: July 2016

This study which adopted the descriptive research design investigated the relationship between writing anxiety and students’ achievement in essay writing. SS2 Students from six schools in Ibadan Metropolis were used for the study. The instruments used were Essay Writing Achievement Test(r=0.81) and Writing Anxiety Questionnaire(r=0.86). Data collected were analysed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation at 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed a negative significant relationship between writing anxiety and students’ achievement in essay writing. This implies that the higher the writing anxiety, the lower the achievement in essay writing. It was therefore recommended among others that the teaching and learning of essay writing in classroom should be devoid of unnecessary tension and stress so as not to heighten students’ anxiety in essay writing. Also, English language teachers should devise any means of reducing writing anxiety among students so they can write better essays.
Three-dimensional free vibration analysis of thick laminated circular plates
Authors: Khare Sumit , Mittal N.D.
Published: July 2016

In this communication, a numerical analysis regarding free vibration of thick laminated circular plates, having free, clamped as well as simply-supported boundary conditions at outer edges of plates is presented. The employment of finite element is made in this communication. The finite element methodology operates on the basis of three-dimensional theory of elasticity and was employed to assess the natural frequencies for laminated circular plates of various thickness-to-outer radius ratios. The first five natural modes of flexural vibrations for different boundary conditions are presented in pictorial forms. Verification of the accuracy of the results was made using the necessary convergence analysis and checked using literature results.Keywords: Laminated Composite Circular Plate; Natural Frequency; Mode Shape; Finite Element Method
Developing an Algorithm to Detect Early Childhood Obesity in Two Tertiary Pediatric Medical Centers
Authors: Brady Cassandra , Namjou Bahram , Kennebeck Stephanie , Bickel Jonathan , Patibandla Nandan , Ni Yizhao , Van Driest Sara , Chen Lixin , Roach Ashton , Cobb Beth , Kirby Jacqueline , Denny Josh , Bailey-Davis Lisa , Williams Marc , Marsolo Keith , Solti Imre , Holm Ingrid , Harley John , Kohane Isaac , Savova Guergana , Crimmins Nancy , Lingren Todd , Thaker Vidhu
Published: July 2016

The objective of this study is to develop an algorithm to accurately identify children with severe early onset childhood obesity (ages 1–5.99 years) using structured and unstructured data from the electronic health record (EHR).

Childhood obesity increases risk factors for cardiovascular morbidity and vascular disease. Accurate definition of a high precision phenotype through a standardize tool is critical to the success of large-scale genomic studies and validating rare monogenic variants causing severe early onset obesity.

Rule based and machine learning based algorithms were developed using structured and unstructured data from two EHR databases from Boston Children’s Hospital (BCH) and Cincinnati Children’s Hospital and Medical Center (CCHMC). Exclusion criteria including medications or comorbid diagnoses were defined. Machine learning algorithms were developed using cross-site training and testing in addition to experimenting with natural language processing features.

Precision was emphasized for a high fidelity cohort. The rule-based algorithm performed the best overall, 0.895 (CCHMC) and 0.770 (BCH). The best feature set for machine learning employed Unified Medical Language System (UMLS) concept unique identifiers (CUIs), ICD-9 codes, and RxNorm codes.

Detecting severe early childhood obesity is essential for the intervention potential in children at the highest long-term risk of developing comorbidities related to obesity and excluding patients with underlying pathological and non-syndromic causes of obesity assists in developing a high-precision cohort for genetic study. Further such phenotyping efforts inform future practical application in health care environments utilizing clinical decision support.

Citation: Lingren T, Thaker V, Brady C, Namjou B, Kennebeck S, Bickel J, Patibandla N, Ni Y, Van Driest SL, Chen L, Roach A, Cobb B, Kirby J, Denny J, Bailey-Davis L, Williams MS, Marsolo K, Solti I, Holm IA, Harley J, Kohane IS, Savova G, Crimmins N. Developing an algorithm to detect early childhood obesity in two tertiary pediatric medical centers.
Five-year records of Total Mercury Deposition flux at GMOS sites in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres
Authors: Sprovieri Francesca , Pirrone Nicola , Bencardino Mariantonia , D'Amore Francesco , Angot Helene , Barbante Carlo , Brunke Ernst-Günther , Arcega-Cabrera Flor , Cairns Warren , Comero Sara , Diéguez María del Carmen , Dommergue Aurélien , Ebinghaus Ralf , Feng Xin Bin , Fu Xuewu , Garcia Patricia Elizabeth , Gawlik Bernd Manfred , Hageström Ulla , Hansson Katarina , Horvat Milena , Kotnik Jože , Labuschagne Casper , Magand Olivier , Martin Lynwill , Mashyanov Nikolay , Mkololo Thumeka , Munthe John , Obolkin Vladimir , Islas Martha Ramirez , Sena Fabrizio , Somerset Vernon , Spandow Pia , Vardè Massimiliano , Walters Chavon , Wängberg Ingvar , Weigelt Andreas , Yang Xu , Zhang Hui
Published: July 2016

Abstract. The atmospheric deposition of mercury (Hg) occurs via several mechanisms including dry and wet scavenging by precipitation events. In an effort to understand the atmospheric cycling and seasonal depositional characteristics of Hg, wet deposition samples were collected for approximately five years at 17 selected GMOS monitoring sites located in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres in the framework of the Global Mercury Observation System (GMOS) project. Total mercury (THg) exhibited annual and seasonal patterns in Hg wet deposition samples. Inter-annual differences in total wet deposition are mostly linked with precipitation volume, with the greatest deposition flux occurring in the wettest years. This data set provides a new insight into baseline concentrations of THg concentrations in precipitation worldwide, particularly in regions, such as the Southern Hemisphere and tropical areas where wet deposition as well as atmospheric Hg species were not investigated before, opening the way for future and additional simultaneous measurements across the GMOS network as well as new findings in future modeling studies.
PHIPS–HALO: the airborne Particle Habit Imaging and Polar
Scattering probe – Part 1: Design and operation
Authors: Abdelmonem Ahmed , Järvinen Emma , Duft Denis , Hirst Edwin , Vogt Steffen , Leisner Thomas , Schnaiter Martin
Published: July 2016

Abstract. The number and shape of ice crystals present in mixed-phase and ice clouds influence the radiation properties, precipitation occurrence and lifetime of these clouds. Since clouds play a major role in the climate system, influencing the energy budget by scattering sunlight and absorbing heat radiation from the earth, it is necessary to investigate the optical and microphysical properties of cloud particles particularly in situ. The relationship between the microphysics and the single scattering properties of cloud particles is usually obtained by modelling the optical scattering properties from in situ measurements of ice crystal size distributions. The measured size distribution and the assumed particle shape might be erroneous in case of non-spherical ice particles. There is a demand to obtain both information correspondently and simultaneously for individual cloud particles in their natural environment. For evaluating the average scattering phase function as a function of ice particle habit and crystal complexity, in situ measurements are required. To this end we have developed a novel airborne optical sensor (PHIPS-HALO) to measure the optical properties and the corresponding microphysical parameters of individual cloud particles simultaneously. PHIPS-HALO has been tested in the AIDA cloud simulation chamber and deployed in mountain stations as well as research aircraft (HALO and Polar 6). It is a successive version of the laboratory prototype instrument PHIPS-AIDA. In this paper we present the detailed design of PHIPS-HALO, including the detection mechanism, optical design, mechanical construction and aerodynamic characterization.
Multi-year GNSS monitoring of atmospheric IWV over Central and South America for climate studies
Authors: Bianchi Clara Eugenia , Mendoza Luciano Pedro Oscar , Fernández Laura Isabel , Natali María Paula , Meza Amalia Margarita , Moirano Juan Francisco
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Atmospheric water vapour has been acknowledged as an essential climate variable. Weather prediction and hazard assessment systems benefit from real-time observations, whereas long-term records contribute to climate studies. Nowadays, ground-based global navigation satellite system (GNSS) products have become widely employed, complementing satellite observations over the oceans. Although the past decade has seen a significant development of the GNSS infrastructure in Central and South America, its potential for atmospheric water vapour monitoring has not been fully exploited. With this in mind, we have performed a regional, 7-year-long and homogeneous analysis, comprising 136 GNSS tracking stations, obtaining high-rate and continuous observations of column-integrated water vapour and troposphere zenith total delay. As a preliminary application for this data set, we have estimated local water vapour trends, their significance, and their relation with specific climate regimes. We have found evidence of drying at temperate regions in South America, at a rate of about 2 % per decade, while a slow moistening of the troposphere over tropical regions is also weakly suggested by our results. Furthermore, we have assessed the regional performance of the empirical model GPT2w to blindly estimate troposphere delays. The model reproduces the observed mean delays fairly well, including their annual and semi-annual variations. Nevertheless, a long-term evaluation has shown systematical biases, up to 20 mm, probably inherited from the underlying atmospheric reanalysis. Additionally, the complete data set has been made openly available as supplementary material.
An Explicit GIS-Based River Basin Framework for Aquatic Ecosystem Conservation in the Amazon
Authors: Venticinque Eduardo , Forsberg Bruce , Barthen B. Ronaldo , Petry Paulo , Hess Laura , Mercado Armando , Canãs Carlos , Montoya Mariana , Durigan Carlos , Goulding Michael
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Despite large-scale infrastructure development, deforestation, mining and petroleum exploration in the Amazon Basin, relatively little attention has been given to the management scale required for the protection of wetlands, fisheries and other aspects of aquatic ecosystems. This is due, in part, to the enormous size, multinational composition and interconnected nature of the Amazon River system, but also to the absence of an adequate spatial model for integrating data across the entire Amazon Basin. In this data article we present a spatially uniform multi-scale GIS framework that was developed especially for the analysis, management and monitoring of various aspects of aquatic systems in the Amazon Basin. The Amazon GIS-Based River Basin Framework is accessible as an ESRI geodatabase at https://knb.ecoinformatics.org/#view/doi:10.5063/F1BG2KX8.
Looking beyond general metrics for model comparison – lessons from an international model intercomparison study
Authors: de Boer-Euser Tanja , Bouaziz Laurène , De Niel Jan , Brauer Claudia , Dewals Benjamin , Drogue Gilles , Fenicia Fabrizio , Grelier Benjamin , Nossent Jiri , Pereira Fernando , Savenije Hubert , Thirel Guillaume , Willems Patrick
Published: July 2016

Abstract. International collaboration between research institutes and universities is a promising way to reach consensus on hydrological model development. Although comparative studies are very valuable for international cooperation, they do often not lead to very clear new insights regarding the relevance of the modelled processes. We hypothesise that this is partly caused by model complexity and the comparison methods used, which focus too much on a good overall performance instead of focusing on specific events. In this study, we use an approach that focuses on the evaluation of specific events and characteristics. Eight international research groups calibrated their hourly model on the Ourthe catchment in Belgium and carried out a validation in time for the Ourthe catchment and a validation in space for nested and neighbouring catchments. The same protocol was followed for each model and an ensemble of best performing parameter sets was selected. Although the models showed similar performances based on general metrics (i.e. Nash–Sutcliffe Efficiency), clear differences could be observed for specific events. The results illustrate the relevance of including a very quick flow reservoir preceding the root zone storage to model peaks during low flows and including a slow reservoir in parallel with the fast reservoir to model the recession for the Ourthe catchment. This intercomparison enhanced the understanding of the hydrological functioning of the catchment and, above all, helped to evaluate each model against a set of alternative models.
Mangrove forest against dyke-break-induced tsunami on rapidly subsiding
coasts
Authors: Takagi Hiroshi , Mikami Takahito , Fujii Daisuke , Esteban Miguel , Kurobe Shota
Published: July 2016

Abstract. Thin coastal dykes typically found in developing countries may suddenly collapse due to rapid land subsidence, material ageing, sea-level rise, high wave attack, earthquakes, landslides, or a collision with vessels. Such a failure could trigger dam-break tsunami-type flooding, or “dyke-break-induced tsunami”, a possibility which has so far been overlooked in the field of coastal disaster science and management. To analyse the potential consequences of one such flooding event caused by a dyke failure, a hydrodynamic model was constructed based on the authors' field surveys of a vulnerable coastal location in Jakarta, Indonesia. In a 2 m land subsidence scenario – which is expected to take place in the study area after only about 10–20 years – the model results show that the floodwaters rapidly rise to a height of nearly 3 m, resembling the flooding pattern of earthquake-induced tsunamis. The depth–velocity product criterion suggests that many of the narrow pedestrian paths behind the dyke could experience strong flows, which are far greater than the safe limits that would allow pedestrian evacuation. A couple of alternative scenarios were also considered to investigate how such flood impacts could be mitigated by creating a mangrove belt in front of the dyke as an additional safety measure. The dyke-break-induced tsunamis, which in many areas are far more likely than regular earthquake tsunamis, cannot be overlooked and thus should be considered in disaster management and urban planning along the coasts of many developing countries.
Análisis de seguridad y productividad del suministro de energía eléctrica en el sistema eléctrico de Nicaragua en el periodo comprendido desde el año 2010 hasta el 2018
Authors: Blanco-Orozco Napoleón Vicente , Zúniga-González Carlos Alberto , Torres Jaime , Arce-Díaz Eduardo , Martínez-Andrade Erick , Dios-Palomares Rafaela , Quiros-Madrigal Olman José , Rueda-Hernández Mauricio José
Published: July 2016

El propósito de este estudio fue el de estudiar la seguridad y productividad del suministro de energía eléctrica en el sistema eléctrico de Nicaragua en el periodo desde el año 2010 hasta el 2018 utilizando el Indicador Stirling, indicador margen de reserva, indicador pérdida del mayor generador, el indicador de concentración de mercado y herramienta metodológica de análisis envolvente de datos (DEA) y los índices de Malmquist. Se estudió el comportamiento del sector energético de Nicaragua, en el periodo 2005 – 2013. Como resultado del indicador Stirling se obtuvo, que Nicaragua en estos momentos cuenta con seguridad en el sistema eléctrico, Del indicador margen de reserva se obtuvo como resultado, que el nivel de seguridad desde el punto de evaluación de este indicador el sistema cuenta con la suficiente seguridad como para no incurrir en afectaciones a los consumidores finales, Como resultado del indicador pérdida del mayor generador (LU), concluye en que se posee un sistema seguro. Por otra parte, El índice de concentración de mercado mostro que Nicaragua no posee un mercado energético competitivo. En la evaluación de productividad del uso de recursos energéticos se encontró que solo el uso de biomasa presenta un ritmo promedio anual de crecimiento de productividad.
Notas sobre o mínimo existencial e sua interpretação pelo STF no âmbito do controle judicial das políticas públicas com base nos direitos sociais
Authors: Sarlet Ingo Wolfgang , Zockun Carolina Zancaner
Published: July 2016

O direito (e garantia) a um mínimo existencial para uma vida digna tem sido presença constante no debate acadêmico e jurisdicional pátrio, seja no plano dos Tribunais Superiores, seja nas instâncias ordinárias. Nessa perspectiva, destaca-se o papel do Supremo Tribunal Federal, que, ao longo dos últimos anos, especialmente desde os anos 2000, tem recorrido reiteradamente à noção de mínimo existencial em diversos contextos, especialmente no domínio dos direitos fundamentais sociais. Pretende-se, após uma breve digressão sobre a origem e conteúdo do mínimo existencial, analisar, à luz de alguns exemplos, o papel da jurisdição constitucional na sua intepretação e aplicação, explorando alguns julgados do STF sobre o tema, recorrendo também, ainda que em caráter ilustrativo, ao direito constitucional estrangeiro, com destaque para o alemão.
Influence of thinning intensity and canopy type on Scots pine stand and growth dynamics in a mixed managed forest
Authors: Primicia Irantzu , Artázcoz Rubén , Imbert Juan-Bosco , Puertas Fernando , Traver María-del-Carmen , Castillo Federico-José
Published: July 2016

Aim of the study: We analysed the effects of thinning intensity and canopy type on Scots pine growth and stand dynamics in a mixed Scots pine-beech forest. Area of the study: Western Pyrenees. Material and methods: Three thinning intensities were applied in 1999 (0, 20 and 30% basal area removed) and 2009 (0, 20 and 40%) on 9 plots. Within each plot, pure pine and mixed pine-beech patches are distinguished. All pine trees were inventoried in 1999, 2009 and 2014. The effects of treatments on the tree and stand structure variables (density, basal area, stand and tree volume), on the periodic annual increment in basal area and stand and tree volume, and on mortality rates, were analysed using linear mixed effects models. Main Results: The enhancement of tree growth was mainly noticeable after the second thinning. Growth rates following thinning were similar or higher in the moderate than in the severe thinning. Periodic stand volume annual increments were higher in the thinned than in the unthinned plots, but no differences were observed between the thinned treatments. We observed an increase in the differences of the Tree volume annual increment between canopy types (mixed < pure) over time in the unthinned plots, as beech crowns developed. Research highlights: Moderate thinning is suggested as an appropriate forest practice at early pine age in these mixed forests, since it produced higher tree growth rates than the severe thinning and it counteracted the negative effect of beech on pine growth observed in the unthinned plots.Keywords: competition; Fagus sylvatica L.; Pinus sylvestris L.; forest management; mortality; Mediterranean forest.
Short communication. Tomography as a method to study umbrella pine (Pinus pinea) cones and nuts
Authors: Nunes Alexandra , Pereira Helena , Tomé Margarida , Silva Joao , Fontes Luis
Published: July 2016

Aim of study: Umbrella or stone pine (Pinus pinea) nuts are one of the most valuable and expensive non-wood forest products in Portugal. The increasing market and landowner's interest resulted on a high expansion of plantation areas. This study tests the feasibility of using tomography to characterize pine cones and nuts.Area of study: The research was carried out in pine stand, with nine years, grafted in 2011, on Herdade of Machoqueira do Grou, near Coruche, in Portugal’s central area.Material and Methods: Starting in June 2015, ten pine cones in their final stage of development, were randomly monthly collected, and evaluated with tomography equipment commonly used in clinical medicine, according to Protocol Abdomen Mean. A sequence of images corresponding to 1mm-spaced cross-sections were obtained and reconstructed to produce a 3D model. The segmented images were worked using free image processing software, like RadiAnt Dicom Viewer, Data Viewer and Ctvox.Main results: The cone’s structures were clearly visible on the images, and it was possible to easily identify empty pine nuts. Although expensive, tomography is an easy and quick application technique that allows to assess the internal structures, through the contrast of materials densities, allowing to estimate pine nut’s size and empty nut’s proportion. By analysis of ninety images, it was obtained, an estimated mean value of 25.5 % empty nuts.Research highlights: Results showed the potential of tomography as a screening tool to be used in industry and research areas, for analysis and diagnostic of stone pine cone’s structures.Keywords: pine cone; pine nuts; stone pine; tomography; CAT.Abbreviations: CAT: computerized axial tomography; 3D: three dimensional; HU: Hounsfield Units.
Rooting of Mugo pine (Pinus mugo) cuttings as affected by IBA, NAA and planting substrate
Authors: Sedaghathoor Shahram , Kayghobadi Saghi , Tajvar Yahya
Published: July 2016

Aim of study: The effect of planting substrate and concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) and naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) hormones was studied on the rooting of mugo pine cuttings.Area of study: The research was carried out in Rasht city, Guilan province, Iran.Material and Methods: Both hormones (IBA and NAA) were applied at four concentrations of 0, 1000, 2000 and 4000 mg/l. Planting substrates included sand, perlite, cocopeat, sand + perlite, and sand + cocopeat (1:1).Main results: The highest rooting percentage (55%) was obtained under the trilateral treatment a2b4c1 (sand × 4000 mg/l NAA × 1000 mg/l IBA). Sand + cocopeat was found to be the best rooting substrate.Research highlights: It is recommended to apply sand with 4000 mg/l and 1000mg/l concentration of experimental hormones (NAA and IBA, respectively).Keywords: auxin; rooting; Pinus mugo; vegetative propagation.
Resource Communication. Temporal optimization of fuel treatment design in blue gum (Eucalyptus globulus) plantations
Authors: Martin Ana , Botequim Brigite , Oliveira Tiago M. , Ager Alan , Pirotti Francesco
Published: July 2016

Aim of study: This study was conducted to support fire and forest management planning in eucalypt plantations based on economic, ecological and fire prevention criteria, with a focus on strategic prioritisation of fuel treatments over time. The central objective was to strategically locate fuel treatments to minimise losses from wildfire while meeting budget constraints and demands for wood supply for the pulp industry and conserving carbon.Area of study: The study area was located in Serra do Socorro (Torres Vedras, Portugal, covering ~1449 ha) of predominantly Eucalyptus globulus Labill forests managedcultivated for pulpwood by The Navigator Company.Material and methods: At each of four temporal stages (2015-2018-2021-2024) we simulated: (1) surface and canopy fuels, timber volume (m3 ha-1) and carbon storage (Mg ha-1); (2) fire behaviour characteristics, i.e. rate of spread (m min-1), and flame length (m), with FlamMap fire modelling software; (3) optimal treatment locations as determined by the Landscape Treatment Designer (LTD).Main results: The higher pressure of fire behaviour in the earlier stages of the study period triggered most of the spatial fuel treatments within eucalypt plantations in a juvenile stage. At later stages fuel treatments also included shrublands areas. The results were consistent with observations and simulation results that show high fire hazard in juvenile eucalypt stands.Research highlights: Forest management planning in commercial eucalypt plantations can potentially accomplish multiple objectives such as augmenting profits and sustaining ecological assets while reducing wildfire risk at landscape scale. However, limitations of simulation models including FlamMap and LTD are important to recognise in studies of long term wildfire management strategies.Keywords: Eucalypt plantations; Fire hazard; FlamMap; fuel treatment optimisation; Landscape Treatment Designer; wildfire risk management.
Workplace Spirituality, Job Satisfaction and Organizational Citizenship Behaviors: A Theoretical Model
Authors: Belwalkar Shibani , Vohra Veena
Published: July 2016

Workplace spirituality has steadily been gaining attention in the last couple of years. Many researchers have investigated the role of “workplace spirituality” with the aim of generating research data that would firmly entrench this construct as vital in the workplace. This article proposes the relationships between workplace spirituality, job satisfaction and organizational citizenship behaviors. It examines the relationship between three workplace spirituality components–meaning and purpose in work, recognition of an inner life or spirit and interconnectedness with the various forms in which organizational citizenship behaviours manifest, mediated by the job satisfaction experienced by the employees. This study can provide significant inputs to promote managerial effectiveness, change management, leadership, holistic performance and growth of organizations, through environments which promote workplace spirituality.
Innovation on Wheels in Emerging Economies: Lessons from Auto MNC’s Experience
Authors: Sharmelly Rifat
Published: July 2016

Emerging economies (EEs) are increasingly being considered as new sources of growth and innovation opportunities for global auto multinational companies. Many multinational companies from developed countries are eager to prosper in these economies. However, the crucial challenge that companies face today is to identify what precisely are the approaches required to serve mass market customers in EEs. In this research, the case study of a foreign auto multinational operating in India has been utilized. Focusing on the product innovation for the Indian masses with the creation of the most affordable car ‘Figo’ from the reputed auto multinational Ford, this analysis reveal the importance of engaging same set of suppliers in trust based, recurrent collaborative linkages to enhance the innovative performance. In addition, ensuring an effective value-for-money proposition is needed to achieve innovations with required affordability and acceptability criteria. Furthermore, experimenting with modules and resultant learning about markets are needed to enhance the innovative performance. With the suggested testable propositions, this study has significant theoretical contributions as well as implications for managers of aspiring companies intending to serve EEs.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in Poland—A Need for Population-Based Epidemiological Studies
Authors: Zejda Jan , Brożek Grzegorz
Published: July 2016

A recent monograph “Lung Diseases” issued by the National Medical Publisher (PZWL) in relation with the XXIV Conference of the Polish Thoracic Society (Wisła, 7−10 May 2016) includes a number of state-of-art papers addressing key pulmonological issues [...]
Fatigue Syndrome in Sarcoidosis
Authors: Górski Witold , Piotrowski Wojciech
Published: July 2016

Sarcoidosis is an inflammatory disease of unknown etiology. Most commonly it results in the formation of non-caseating granulomas in intrathoracic lymph nodes and lung parenchyma, but the clinical course and picture may be complicated by extrapulmonary involvement and many non-respiratory signs and symptoms which are directly related to the disease. In addition, sarcoidosis patients may suffer from a plethora of symptoms of uncertain or unknown origin. Fatigue is one of these symptoms, and according to some authors it is reported by the majority of patients with active sarcoidosis, but also by a smaller proportion of patients with inactive sarcoidosis, or even with complete clinical and radiological remission. Therefore the term fatigue syndrome is frequently used to name this clinical problem. The definition of fatigue syndrome in sarcoidosis is imprecise and the syndrome is usually recognized by use of validated questionnaires. In this review the uptodate knowledge in this field was presented and different challenges connected with this syndrome were described.
Energy as Power—Gazprom, Gas Infrastructure, and Geo-governmentality in Putin’s Russia
Authors: Tynkkynen Veli-Pekka
Published: July 2016

This study unfolds the normalizing narrative that is constructed via theGazifikatsiia Rossiipromotional video released by Gazprom. The analysis reveals that the practiced geo-governmentality ofgazifikatsiiaderives its power from geographical imaginaries of Russia. This bipartite energopower and geo-governmentality receives its essence from the positive and negative materialities of hydrocarbons, the ability to do both “good” and “bad”, which unfolds the way the non-human is embedded in the construction of the social. This construction lumps together the material-nationalistic energy imagination, such as Russia as an energy Superpower, with universal goals such as economic growth and modernization, but also with values such as conservative gender roles. The rationalities and practices ofgazifikatsiiageo-governmentality function in and combine several scales:the subjectis tied toterritoriesandthe nationvia gas, the subject is made responsible for the biosecurity ofthe population,andthe globalis harnessed in legitimizing the reliance on gas.
Tobramycin and Beta-Lactam Antibiotic Use in Cystic Fibrosis Exacerbations: A Pharmacist Approach
Authors: Zobell Jeffery T. , Epps Kevin , Kittell Frederick , Sema Clarissa , McDade Erin J. , Peters Stacy J. , Duval Mariela A. , Pettit Rebecca S.
Published: July 2016

OBJECTIVES: Survey suggests that recommended doses and dosage regimens for antipseudomonal antibiotics for the treatment of acute pulmonary exacerbations in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients are not used, and one way to address these disparities is the involvement of pharmacists who are dedicated to CF. This is the first survey specifically designed for pharmacists at Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF)–accredited centers to identify how tobramycin and antipseudomonal beta-lactams are being used. The purpose of this survey is to quantify this information and to promote future study to allow for implementation of tobramycin and beta-lactam dosage and monitoring standardization.

METHODS: An anonymous national cross-sectional survey of pharmacists that are affliated with CFF-accredited programs was performed using Qualtrics.com.

RESULTS: The survey had a 48.5% response rate. Most pediatric pharmacists (78.6%) report using extended-interval tobramycin dosage. The most common reported starting dosage was 10 mg/kg every 24 hours; most centers aim for a maximum serum concentration (Cmax) between 20 and 40 mg/L (78.6%). A total of 26 adult pharmacists reported using extended-interval dosage (96%), using an initial dosage of 10 mg/kg/day. The most common parameters used to adjust dosage were Cmax and area under the curve (AUC; 31%); the Cmax goal was 20 to 40 mg/L (84.2%). Most respondents (79%) report using beta-lactams in combination with tobramycin. Extended-infusion and continuous-infusion beta-lactams were used more in adults than pediatric patients.

CONCLUSIONS: Most CF pharmacists report using extended-interval tobramycin. With the information from this survey, the establishment of future consensus recommendations by pharmacists for optimal and consistent tobramycin and antipseudomonal beta-lactam dosage and monitoring strategies needs to be considered.
Reducing HIV‐related risk and mental health problems through a client‐centred psychosocial intervention for vulnerable adolescents in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Jani Nrupa , Vu Lung , Kay Lynnette , Habtamu Kassahun , Kalibala Samuel
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Ethiopia is experiencing an increasingly urban HIV epidemic, alongside a rise in urban adolescent migration. Adolescent migrants are often confronted by unique social challenges, including living in a difficult environment, abuse and mental health problems. These issues can increase adolescents’ vulnerability to HIV and compromise their capacity to protect themselves and others from HIV. We piloted and assessed the effects of a targeted psychosocial intervention to reduce mental health problems and improve HIV‐related outcomes among migrant adolescents in Addis Ababa.

Methods

A pre‐ and post‐comparison design was used in a cohort of 576 female and 154 male migrant adolescents aged 15 to 18 years in Addis Ababa receiving services from two service delivery organizations, Biruh Tesfa and Retrak. We implemented a three‐month client‐centred, counsellor‐delivered psychosocial intervention, based on findings from formative research among the same target population, to address participants’ increased vulnerability to HIV. The intervention package comprised individual, group and creative arts therapy counselling sessions. Key outcome indicators included anxiety, depression, aggressive behaviour, attention problems, social problems, knowledge of HIV, safer sex practices and use of sexual health services. Longitudinal data analysis (McNemar test and random effects regression) was used to assess changes over time in key indicators by gender.

Results

For females, aggressive behaviour decreased by 60% (adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.4 (0.25 to 0.65)) and any mental health problem decreased by 50% (AOR: 0.5 (0.36 to 0.81)) from baseline to end line. In addition, knowledge of HIV increased by 60% (AOR: 1.6 (1.08 to 2.47)), knowledge of a place to test for HIV increased by 70% (AOR: 1.7 (1.12 to 2.51)) and HIV testing increased by 80% (AOR: 1.8 (1.13 to 2.97)). For males, HIV knowledge increased by 110% (AOR: 2.1 (1.1 to 3.94)), knowledge of a place to test for HIV increased by 290% (AOR: 3.9 (1.02 to 14.9)), HIV testing increased by 630% (AOR: 7.3 (2.6 to 20.7)) and use of sexual health services increased by 220% (AOR: 3.2 (1.62 to 6.27)). We did not find any significant reduction in mental health problems among male adolescents.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that a psychosocial intervention was associated with increased knowledge and uptake of HIV and sexual health services among both male and female migrant adolescents and with reduced mental health problems among female adolescents. Mental health problems varied significantly for male and female adolescents, suggesting that future interventions should be tailored to address their different needs and would benefit from intensive follow‐up efforts.
Results from a rapid national assessment of services for the prevention of mother‐to‐child transmission of HIV in Côte d'Ivoire
Authors: Granato S Adam , Gloyd Stephen , Robinson Julia , Dali Serge A , Ahoba Irma , Aka David , Kouyaté Seydou , Billy Doroux A , Kalibala Samuel , Koné Ahoua
Published: July 2016

Introduction

Loss‐to‐follow‐up (LTFU) in the prevention of mother‐to‐child HIV transmission (PMTCT) programmes can occur at multiple stages of antenatal and follow‐up care. This paper presents findings from a national assessment aimed at identifying major bottlenecks in Côte d'Ivoire's PMTCT cascade, and to distinguish characteristics of high‐ and low‐performing health facilities.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study, based on a nationally representative sample of 30 health facilities in Côte d'Ivoire used multiple data sources (registries, patient charts, patient booklets, interviews) to determine the magnitude of LTFU in PMTCT services. A composite measure of retention – based on child prophylaxis, maternal treatment and infant testing – was used to identify high‐ and low‐performing sites and determine significant differences using Student's t‐tests.

Results

Among 1,741 pregnant women newly recorded as HIV‐positive between June 2011 and May 2012, 43% had a CD4 count taken, 77% received appropriate prophylaxis and 70% received prophylaxis intended for their infant. During that time, 1,054 first infant HIV tests were recorded. A conservative rate of adherence to antiretroviral therapy was estimated at 50% (n=219 patient charts). Significant differences between high‐ and low‐performing sites included: duration of time elapsed between HIV testing and CD4 results (29.5 versus 56.3 days, p=0.001); and density (number per 100 first antenatal care visits) of full‐time physicians (6.7 versus 1.7, p=0.04), laboratory technicians (2.3 versus 0.7, p=0.046), staff trained in PMTCT (10.7 versus 4.7, p=0.01), and staff performing patient follow‐up activities (7.9 versus 2.5, p=0.02). Key informants highlighted staff presence and training, the availability of medical supplies and equipment (i.e., on‐site CD4 machine), and the adequacy of infrastructure (i.e., space and ventilation) as perceived key factors positively and negatively impacting retention in care.

Conclusions

Patient LTFU occurred throughout the PMTCT cascade from maternal to infant testing, with retention scores ranging from 0.10 to 0.83. Sites that scored higher had more dedicated and trained frontline health workers, and emphasised patient follow‐up through outreach and the reduction of delays in care. Strategies to improve patient retention and decrease transmission should emphasise patient tracking systems that utilise critical human resources to both improve data quality and increase direct patient follow‐up.
A erradicação do Aedes aegypti: febre amarela, Fred Soper e saúde pública nas Américas (1918-1968)
Authors: Magalhães Rodrigo Cesar da Silva
Published: July 2016

O livro analisa a Campanha Continental para a Erradicação do Aedes aegypti, o primeiro e mais duradouro programa internacional de erradicação já implementado. Lançada em 1947 sob os auspícios da Organização Sanitária Pan-Americana (OSP), então dirigida pelo médico norte-americano Frederick Soper, ela dava continuidade à Campanha Mundial de Erradicação da Febre Amarela, oficialmente iniciada em 1918, após o término da Primeira Guerra Mundial, pela Fundação Rockefeller. A Campanha Continental sintetizava importantes transformações do pós-Segunda Guerra Mundial e sinalizava um novo padrão de relacionamento das organizações internacionais e do governo norte-americano com os países da América Latina, especialmente o Brasil, com maior preponderância destes. O livro nos oferece uma análise original dos esforços envidados no passado recente e subsídios para realizarmos com sucesso este enfrentamento no presente - a recente epidemia causada pelo vírus Zika coloca novamente na ordem do dia o combate sem tréguas ao mosquito Aedes aegypti, também responsável pela transmissão da dengue e da febre chikungunya.
Subretinal mononuclear phagocytes induce cone segment loss via IL-1β
Authors: Eandi Chiara M , Charles Messance Hugo , Augustin Sébastien , Dominguez Elisa , Lavalette Sophie , Forster Valérie , Hu Shulong Justin , Siquieros Lourdes , Craft Cheryl Mae , Sahel José-Alain , Tadayoni Ramin , Paques Michel , Guillonneau Xavier , Sennlaub Florian
Published: July 2016

Photo-transduction in cone segments (CS) is crucial for high acuity daytime vision. For ill-defined reasons, CS degenerate in retinitis pigmentosa (RP) and in the transitional zone (TZ) of atrophic zones (AZ), which characterize geographic atrophy (GA). Our experiments confirm the loss of cone segments (CS) in the TZ of patients with GA and show their association with subretinal CD14+mononuclear phagocyte (MP) infiltration that is also reported in RP. Using human and mouse MPs in vitro and inflammation-prone Cx3cr1GFP/GFP mice in vivo, we demonstrate that MP-derived IL-1β leads to severe CS degeneration. Our results strongly suggest that subretinal MP accumulation participates in the observed pathological photoreceptor changes in these diseases. Inhibiting subretinal MP accumulation or Il-1β might protect the CS and help preserve high acuity daytime vision in conditions characterized by subretinal inflammation, such as AMD and RP.
Surface-tension-tailored aqueous ink for low-temperature deposition of high-k HfO2 thin film
Authors: Han Sun Woong , Lee Keun Ho , Yoo Young Bum , Park Jee Ho , Song Kie Moon , Baik Hong Koo
Published: July 2016

In this paper, solution-based deposition of HfO2 thin film at low temperature was demonstrated. By using aqueous HfCl4 solution, the precursor was effectively decomposed with low annealing temperature of 150 °C. Thus it is preferable to use this solution for dielectric coating on flexible substrates. To achieve conformal coating on substrate, formic acid as a cosolvent was added to aqueous ink solution to reduce surface tension of the solution. Due to improved coating quality of HfO2 thin film, the fabricated HfO2 gate dielectric shows reliable breakdown characteristics and low leakage current.
Electrically controlled optical-mode switch for fundamental mode and first order mode
Authors: Imansyah Ryan , Tanaka Tatsushi , Himbele Luke , Jiang Haisong , Hamamoto Kiichi
Published: July 2016

We have proposed an optical mode switch, the principle of which is based on the partial phase shift of injected light; therefore, one important issue is to clarify the proper design criteria for the mode combiner section. We focused on the bending radius of the S-bend waveguide issue that is connected to the multi mode waveguide in the Y-junction section that acts as mode combiner. Long radius leads to undesired mode coupling before the Y-junction section, whereas a short radius causes radiation loss. Thus, we simulated this mode combiner by the beam-propagation method to obtain the proper radius. In addition, we used a trench pin structure to simplify the fabrication process into a single-step dry-etching process. As a result, we successfully fabricated an optical-mode switch with the bending radius R = 610 µm. It showed the successful electrical mode switching and the achieved mode crosstalk was approximately −10 dB for 1550 nm wavelength with the injection current of 60 mA (5.7 V).
Reservoir computing with a slowly modulated mask signal for preprocessing using a mutually coupled optoelectronic system
Authors: Tezuka Miwa , Kanno Kazutaka , Bunsen Masatoshi
Published: July 2016

Reservoir computing is a machine-learning paradigm based on information processing in the human brain. We numerically demonstrate reservoir computing with a slowly modulated mask signal for preprocessing by using a mutually coupled optoelectronic system. The performance of our system is quantitatively evaluated by a chaotic time series prediction task. Our system can produce comparable performance with reservoir computing with a single feedback system and a fast modulated mask signal. We showed that it is possible to slow down the modulation speed of the mask signal by using the mutually coupled system in reservoir computing.
Synthesis and characterization of Sb-doped ZnO microspheres by pulsed laser ablation
Authors: Nagasaki Fumiaki , Shimogaki Tetsuya , Tanaka Toshinobu , Ikebuchi Tatsuya , Ueyama Takeshi , Fujiwara Yuki , Higashihata Mitsuhiro , Nakamura Daisuke , Okada Tatsuo
Published: July 2016

We succeeded in synthesizing antimony (Sb)-doped zinc oxide (ZnO) microspheres by ablating a sintered ZnO target containing Sb in air. The structural properties of the microspheres were investigated by Raman scattering studies. The Zn–Sb related local vibrational mode (LVM) was detected around 238 cm−1. Room-temperature photoluminescence (PL) properties of the microspheres were investigated under cw and pulsed laser excitations, and ultraviolet (UV) emission and whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) lasing were observed from the microspheres. Furthermore, a p–n heterojunction was formed between a single Sb-doped ZnO microsphere and an n-Al-doped ZnO thin film, and a good rectifying property with a turn-on voltage of approximately 1.8 V was observed in the current–voltage (I–V) characteristics across the junction.
Morphological analysis of dendrites and spines by hybridization of ridge detection with twin support vector machine
Authors: Wang Shuihua , Chen Mengmeng , Li Yang , Shao Ying , Zhang Yudong , Du Sidan , Wu Jane
Published: July 2016

Dendritic spines are described as neuronal protrusions. The morphology of dendritic spines and dendrites has a strong relationship to its function, as well as playing an important role in understanding brain function. Quantitative analysis of dendrites and dendritic spines is essential to an understanding of the formation and function of the nervous system. However, highly efficient tools for the quantitative analysis of dendrites and dendritic spines are currently undeveloped. In this paper we propose a novel three-step cascaded algorithm–RTSVM— which is composed of ridge detection as the curvature structure identifier for backbone extraction, boundary location based on differences in density, the Hu moment as features and Twin Support Vector Machine (TSVM) classifiers for spine classification. Our data demonstrates that this newly developed algorithm has performed better than other available techniques used to detect accuracy and false alarm rates. This algorithm will be used effectively in neuroscience research.