bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of electricity technical losses on Ghana's economy: a simulation evaluation
Authors: Abrokwa Kennedy Kwabena , Dramani John Bosco , Bhattarai Keshab
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the effects of electricity distribution inefficiencies in Ghana's electricity sector on output, consumption and investments. Inefficiencies are considered as losses in transmission and distribution channels from the generator to the final consumer of energy leading to supply–demand mismatch (shortages and blackouts). We assume that, a high inefficiency reflects high electricity cost in the sector. A simple dynamic version of the Ramsey growth model is developed, providing analytical solutions and applying simulations to evaluate the economic cost. Results from the simulations show that, electricity shortages and blackouts reduce output, consumption and investments in the economy. Improvements in energy technologies for generating and distributing electricity can offset the negative impacts and improve efficiency in the sector.
Evaluating the GDP–energy consumption nexus for the ASEAN‐5 countries using nonlinear ARDL model
Authors: Kisswani Khalid M.
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the GDP–energy consumption nexus for five Asian countries (ASEAN‐5) during the 1971–2013 period by estimating the asymmetric long‐run as well as short‐run effects in a cointegration framework. We apply the recently developed nonlinear autoregressive distributed lags (NARDL) model of Shinet al. () for individual country‐by‐country analysis. Meanwhile, we employ the pooled mean group (PMG) estimator of Pesaran and Smith () and Pesaranet al. () for the ASEAN‐5 countries pooled as a panel set. The empirical results, in case of country‐by‐country, show long‐run asymmetry for Singapore and Thailand only, when considering structural breaks. However, the panel analysis confirms asymmetry for the sample data. Finally, the causality tests employed show mixed results for both set‐ups: country‐by‐country and panel sample.
Innate lymphoid cells and parasites: Ancient foes with shared history
Authors: Neill D. R. , Fallon P. G.
Published: December 2017

This special issue of Parasite Immunology charts the rapid advances made in our understanding of the myriad interactions between innate lymphoid cells and parasites and how these interactions have shaped our evolutionary history. Here, we provide an overview of the issue and highlight key findings from studies in mice and man.
How Sustainable Is Big Data?
Authors: Corbett Charles J.
Published: December 2017

The rapid growth of “big data” provides tremendous opportunities for making better decisions, where “better” can be defined using any combination of economic, environmental, or social metrics. This essay provides a few examples of how the use of big data can precipitate more sustainable decision‐making. However, as with any technology, the use of big data on a large scale will have some undesirable consequences. Some of these are foreseeable, while others are entirely unpredictable. This essay highlights some of the sustainability‐related challenges posed by the use of big data. It does not intend to suggest that the advent of big data is an undesirable development. However, it is not too early to start asking what the unwanted repercussions of the big data revolution might be.
Relationships between bryophyte production and substrate properties in restored milled peatlands
Authors: Purre Anna‐Helena , Ilomets Mati
Published: December 2017

The relationship between the small‐scale distribution pattern of bryophyte biomass on restored milled peatlands and substrate properties (e.g. moisture, pH, nutrients, and their ratios) was studied. Substrate properties may determine the species composition of bryophyte communities that have developed in such areas. Two experimental sites were established in northern Estonia where the moss‐layer‐transfer technique had been used for the revegetation of abandoned peatfields for almost a decade before sampling. Diaspores of Sphagnum species common on bogs were distributed in these sites. After 7 years one site was mainly dominated by Sphagnum whereas true mosses (Polytrichum strictum, Aulacomnium palustre, and Pleurozium schreberi) were abundant in the other site. Three moss groups were distinguished: Sphagnum, P. strictum, and other mosses based on cluster analysis. The biomass of Sphagnum was related to peat moisture and potassium content. For P. strictum the N/K ratio was important, and the production of A. palustre grew with the increase in the N/P ratio of peat. It was concluded that peat properties played an important role in the formation and development of bryophyte communities on revegetated peatfields on a small scale (<0.1 ha).
Evaluation of the Influenza Risk Reduction from Antimicrobial Spray Application on Porous Surfaces
Authors: Chabrelie Alexandre , Mitchell Jade , Rose Joan , Charbonneau Duane , Ishida Yoshiki
Published: December 2017

Antimicrobial spray products are used by millions of people around the world for cleaning and disinfection of commonly touched surfaces. Influenza A is a pathogen of major concern, leading to up to 49,000 deaths and 114,000 hospitalizations per year in the United States alone. One of the recognized routes of transmission for influenza A is by transfer of viruses from surfaces to hands and subsequently to mucous membranes. Therefore, routine cleaning and disinfection of surfaces is an important part of the environmental management of influenza A. While the emphasis is generally on spraying hard surfaces and laundering cloth and linens with high temperature machine drying, not all surfaces can be treated in this manner. The quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) approach was used to develop a stochastic risk model for estimating the risk of infection from indirect contact with porous fomite with and without surface treatment with an antimicrobial spray. The data collected from laboratory analysis combined with the risk model show that influenza A infection risk can be lowered by four logs after using an antimicrobial spray on a porous surface. Median risk associated with a single touch to a contaminated fabric was estimated to be 1.25 × 10−4 for the untreated surface, and 3.6 × 10−8 for the treated surface as a base case assumption. This single touch scenario was used to develop a generalizable model for estimating risks and comparing scenarios with and without treatment to more realistic multiple touch scenarios over time periods and with contact rates previously reported in the literature. The results of this study and understanding of product efficacy on risk reduction inform and broaden the range of risk management strategies for influenza A by demonstrating effective risk reduction associated with treating nonporous fomites that cannot be laundered at high temperatures.
Factors associated with anterior open bite in children with developmental disabilities
Authors: de Castilho Lia Silva , Abreu Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães , Pires e Souza Luiz Gustavo de Almeida , Romualdo Leiliane Teresinha de Almeida , Souza e Silva Maria Elisa , Resende Vera Lúcia Silva
Published: December 2017

Aim: To investigate factors associated with anterior open bite in individuals aged from 2 to 33 years with developmental disabilities. Design: This is a cross‐sectional study. A total of 271 dental records were examined. The anterior open bite analyzed was determined based on clinic exam. These variables were also analyzed: gender, age, education level of mother, International Code of Diseases (ICD), mouth breathing, use of anticonvulsant drugs, hyperkinesis, pacifier use, thumb sucking, seizure, and involuntary movements. For the purposes of analysis, the individuals were categorized as being with and without anterior open bite. Variables with a p‐value of < 0.25 in the bivariate analysis were incorporated into the logistic regression models. Results: Mouth breathers had a 2.60‐fold (95% CI: 1.35–5.01) greater chance of exhibiting anterior open bite than nasal breathers. Pacifier users are more likely to have an anterior open bite (3.32‐fold, 95% CI: 1.62–6.77). Individuals with reported involuntary movements had a 2.66‐fold (95% CI: 1.26–5.63) greater chance of exhibiting anterior open bite. Users of anticonvulsants drugs had a 3.05 (95% CI: 1.57–5.92) greater chance of showing anterior open bite. Conclusion: Involuntary movements, mouth breathing, using anticonvulsant drugs, and using pacifier are factors associated with anterior open bite in patients with developmental disabilities.
Oral manifestations and dentofacial anomalies in β‐thalassemia major children in Dubai (UAE)
Authors: Al‐Raeesi Sheikha , Kowash Mawlood , Hassan Amar , Al‐Halabi Manal
Published: December 2017

Aims

The purpose of this study was to identify special oral and dentofacial manifestations of β‐thalassemia major (ΒTM) in Emarati children in Dubai (UAE).

Materials and methods

A total of 38 (ΒTM) and 76 healthy Emirati children were recruited. An oral examination was conducted to determine dmft/DMFT indices, Simplified Oral Hygiene Index, occlusal anomalies, dentofacial, and soft‐tissue abnormalities.

Results

ΒTM children had significantly higher DMFT compared to the healthy controls (p‐value, 0.017). The Met Need Index (MNI) and the Restorative Index (RI) were lower in the ΒTM group but without statistical significance. Calculus Index (CI) was found to be significantly higher in ΒTM children (p‐value, 0.002). The proportion of gingivitis was significantly lower in the ΒTM group (p‐value, 0.009). ΒTM children had significantly higher proportion of retained primary teeth (p‐value, 0.001) and gingival pigmentation compared with healthy controls (p‐value, 0.001). BTM children did not have any statistically significant difference in the Angle molar classiication compared to the control. Interestigly, a significantly higher proportion of transverse cross bite was found in the control subjects compared to the BTM group (p‐value, 0.004).

Conclusions

Significantly higher DMFT, retained primary teeth, gingival pigmentation, and CI was found in the BTM group compared to the controls while significantly lower gingivitis index and transverse cross bite was seen in the BTM group.
Meteoric diagenesis and dedolomite fabrics in precursor primary dolomicrite in a mixed carbonate–evaporite system
Authors: Hauck Tyler E. , Corlett Hilary J. , Grobe Matthias , Walton Erin L. , Sansjofre Pierre
Published: December 2017

Dedolomitization is a common diagenetic process in shallow burial environments and is often associated with sulphates in mixed carbonate‐evaporite successions. In these settings, elevated Ca2+/Mg2+ ratios necessary for dedolomitization result from the dissolution of sulphate phases by the incursion of undersaturated groundwater. Reported dedolomite textures from other studies are varied, but the most prevalent is a rhombic texture interpreted to result from the partial to complete pseudomorphic replacement of secondary dolomite rhombs formed in the burial diagenetic realm. In this study of primary cryptocrystalline to finely crystalline dolomicrites in the Prairie Evaporite Formation of north‐eastern Alberta, dedolomitization has resulted in sutured to loosely packed mosaics of dedolomite that range from subhedral to distinctly euhedral (rhombic) crystal fabrics; however, no prior aggrading neomorphism producing dolomite rhombs is evident in the precursor dolomicrites. Non‐pseudomorphic dedolomitization of the dolomicrites results in textures that include rhombic dedolomite crystals with cloudy cores comprising remnant dolomicrite and clear rims. These textures are similar to those observed in the pseudomorphic dedolomitization of secondary dolomite rhombs. The Prairie Evaporite Formation of north‐eastern Alberta has experienced extensive karstification near the erosional margin of the sedimentary succession. Dedolomitization of dolomicrites occurs in marker beds within the Prairie Evaporite succession associated with evaporite karstification. Along with stratigraphic and petrographic considerations, stable isotope results support the interpretation of a shallow dedolomitization event influenced by meteoric waters derived from the basin margin. Negative δ18O and low δ13C values (averages of −13·6‰VPDB and 0·5‰VPDB, respectively) of the dedolomite, compared with those of the primary dolomicrite (averages of −6·0‰VPDB and 1·2‰VPDB, respectively), point to isotopically light diagenetic fluids. These results show that rhombic dedolomite textures can form through shallow, non‐pseudomorphic dedolomitization of dolomicrites by meteoric fluids in the presence of sulphates, with resulting textures that are similar to the pseudomorphic dedolomitization of secondary dolomite rhombs.
Waypoints for Evaluating Big Science*
Authors: Bianco William , Gerhart Donald , Nicolson‐Crotty Sean
Published: December 2017

As illustrated by the articles in this volume, there are considerable gaps in the measurement of research productivity/innovation for programs enabled by large initial and ongoing infrastructure investments. Such programs include NASA's International Space Station, DOE's National Ignition Facility, NSF's Polar Program, and CERN's Large Hadron Collider. The enormous sums spent on these projects are often justified by predictions about their contributions to knowledge, the economy, or innovation. But at virtually any point in the lifecycle of a Big Science program, it is not easy to explain to the public, elected officials, and scientists whose proposals were rejected why the program is a compelling investment, given that all of the aforementioned benefits will emerge only over time—if at all.
The International Space Station: Collaboration, Utilization, and Commercialization*
Authors: Ruttley Tara M. , Robinson Julie A. , Gerstenmaier William H.
Published: December 2017

Objective

This article explores the many factors that have been involved in International Space Station (ISS) on‐orbit utilization activities, and the approaches that the National Aeronautics and Space Administration is taking to evaluate, communicate, and maximize the value of these activities.

Methods

A review of the initiatives, stakeholders, vehicle assembly, science and technology outcomes, and benefits to Earth and space exploration illustrates the evolving nature of this unique microgravity research platform.

Results

The ISS partnership works together to implement many strategic approaches to maximizing the ISS platform so that the full potential of this laboratory is realized.
On the identification of an effective cross section for a cruciform specimen
Authors: Härtel M. , Pfeiffer S. , Schmaltz S. , Söhngen B. , Kulawinski D. , Willner K. , Henkel S. , Biermann H. , Wagner M. F.‐X.
Published: December 2017

Biaxial tensile testing of sheet metals is becoming increasingly popular for sheet metal forming. Determining equivalent stresses in biaxial tensile specimens is more complicated than in conventional uniaxial tensile specimens. In the present study, we compare four different approaches to calculate effective stresses during biaxial tensile loading of a cruciform specimen: (a) partial unloading method, where stresses are determined based on force–strain curves; (b) identification with uniaxial tensile testing; (c) an analysis of equivalent biaxial tests; and (d) numerical simulations. Considering experimental results for an AA1050 aluminium alloy and for a low‐carbon steel DC06, we show that, for the cruciform sample studied here, two methods do not yield physically reasonable results: The uniaxial approach does not properly take into account the effect of transverse loading, and the equivalent biaxial approach exhibits uncertainties in strain measurement data. The most comprehensible approach is the numerical method, because it also yields detailed information about the local stress and strain states. The numerical results are in excellent agreement with the partial unloading method in terms of the initial flow stress and of effective stress–strain curves for strains up to 0.02, with both methods predicting a similar effective cross section of 18.0 mm2 for the considered specimen.
A novel HLA‐B allele: HLA‐B*40:241
Authors: Zheng J. W. , Shen W. , Sun Y. , Xie J. H. , Xiang D.
Published: December 2017

The HLA‐B*40:241 allele differs from B*40:01:01 by 1 nucleotide substitution at position 691.
Characterization of two new HLA‐B alleles, HLA‐B*07:299 and HLA‐B*35:350
Authors: Balas A. , Alenda R. , López‐Hernández R. , Sánchez‐García F. , Vicario J. L.
Published: December 2017

Two novel HLA‐B alleles, B*07:299 and B*35:350, were characterized by genomic full‐length sequencing.
Three‐dimensional indoor network accessibility auditing for floor plan design
Authors: Dao Thi Hong Diep , Thill Jean‐Claude
Published: December 2017

Built environments have played an increasingly important and complex role in contemporary cities in the face of the significant number of discretionary and non‐discretionary event‐based activities that take place indoors, and the great variety of three‐dimensional designs that indoor spaces have grown to assume. However, intelligent tools that can assist designers to achieve high accessibility, particularly for large and complex buildings, are still underdeveloped. This article presents an innovative custom computer‐based design tool, dubbed FloorplanAAU (floor plan accessibility auditing), that couples GIS data modeling, indoor traversable network accessibility analysis, and interactive three‐dimensional visualization for built environments, to interactively evaluate and audit floor plans for high accessibility. The proposed method contributes to the success of applying GIS and transportation geography concepts to establish computational tools toward intelligent design and assessment of built environments.
Tools of the crook‐ infection strategies of fungal plant pathogens
Authors: Rodriguez‐Moreno Luis , Ebert Malaika K. , Bolton Melvin D. , Thomma Bart P.H.J.
Published: December 2017

Fungi represent an ecologically diverse group of microorganisms that includes plant pathogenic species able to cause considerable yield loses in crop production systems worldwide. In order to establish compatible interactions with their hosts, pathogenic fungi rely on the secretion of molecules of diverse nature during host colonization to modulate host physiology, manipulate other environmental factors or provide self‐defence. These molecules, collectively known as effectors, are typically small secreted cysteine‐rich proteins, but may also comprise secondary metabolites and sRNAs. Here, we discuss the most common strategies that fungal plant pathogens employ to subvert their host plants in order to successfully complete their life cycle and secure the release of abundant viable progeny.
Unrelated donor choices for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in Canada: an evaluation of factors influencing donor selection
Authors: Greco‐Stewart Valerie , Kiernan Jeffrey , Killeen Donna , Haun Sherry , Mercer Dena , Young Kimberly , Liwski Robert S. , Allan David S.
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND

Utilization of unrelated donors and cord blood units (CBUs) for allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation continues to increase. Understanding the practices of donor selection by transplant centers is critical for unrelated donor registries and cord blood banks to optimize registry composition and inventory to meet patient need.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Unrelated donor and CBU selection practices of Canadian transplant centers served by Canadian Blood Services' OneMatch Stem Cell & Marrow Network (OM) were reviewed, including HLA match level, locus of disparity, age, sex, and product choice (donor vs. CBU).

RESULTS

HLA‐matched donors within OM and/or international (INT) registries were preferentially investigated, underscoring the primary importance of HLA matching. In the case of HLA‐mismatched donors, HLA‐A disparities were most common while DRB1 mismatches were least common. Advanced age, sex, and lack of donor availability were the most frequent reasons that high‐probability OM donors were overlooked in favor of INT donors. High‐probability 10 of 10 HLA‐matched female donors from OM were often avoided in favor of INT male donors. Use of female donors, however, increased in cases restricted to more HLA‐disparate donor options. Caucasian patients were more likely to find 10 of 10 matched donors, whereas use of mismatched donors and CBUs were more prevalent among non‐Caucasian patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Recruitment and retention of young, male donors from diverse ethnic backgrounds may increase the usage of histocompatible OM donors for patients in need.
A multicentre study investigating vital sign changes occurring in complicated and uncomplicated transfusions
Authors: Gehrie E. A. , Roubinian N. H. , Chowdhury D. , Brambilla D. J. , Murphy E. L. , Gottschall J. L. , Wu Y. , Ness P. M. , Strauss R. G. , Hendrickson J. E. ,   the NHLBI Recipient Epidemiology‐Donor Evaluation Study (REDS‐III)
Published: December 2017

Background and Objectives

Many hospitals require transfusions to be discontinued when vital signs stray from predetermined ranges, regardless of clinical symptoms. Variations in vital signs may be unrelated to transfusion, however, and needlessly stopping a transfusion may delay medical care while increasing donor exposures and healthcare costs. We hypothesized that a detailed study of vital sign changes associated with transfusion of blood product by component, including those associated with potential reactions (complicated) and those deemed to be uncomplicated, would establish a useful framework of reference for treating clinicians and transfusion services alike.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective electronic record review of transfusion service and transfusion recipient data was completed on 3852 inpatient transfusion episodes over a 6‐month period at four academic tertiary care hospitals across the United States. Vital signs pre‐ and post‐transfusion were recorded by trained clinical research nurses. Serious reactions were adjudicated by a panel of transfusion medicine experts.

Results

In both uncomplicated transfusions (n = 3765) and those including an adverse reaction (n = 87), vital sign fluctuations were generally modest. Compared to uncomplicated transfusions, transfusions complicated by febrile reactions were associated with higher pretransfusion temperature and higher pretransfusion pulse rates. Episodes of transfusion circulatory overload were associated with higher pretransfusion respiration rates compared to uncomplicated transfusions.

Conclusion

Most transfusions are associated with only modest changes in vital signs. Pretransfusion vital signs may be an important yet previously understudied predictor of vital sign changes during transfusion. The optimal role of vital sign assessment during blood transfusion deserves further study.
The First U.S. Study on Nurses’ Evidence‐Based Practice Competencies Indicates Major Deficits That Threaten Healthcare Quality, Safety, and Patient Outcomes
Authors: Melnyk Bernadette Mazurek , Gallagher‐Ford Lynn , Zellefrow Cindy , Tucker Sharon , Thomas Bindu , Sinnott Loraine T. , Tan Alai
Published: December 2017

Background

Tremendous variability in EBP persists throughout the United States even though research supports that implementation of EBP leads to high‐quality cost‐effective care. Although the first set of EBP competencies for nurses was published in 2014, the state of EBP competency in U.S. nurses is currently unknown.

Aims

The purposes of this study were to: (a) describe the state of EBP competency in nurses across the United States; and (b) determine important factors associated with EBP competency.

Methods

A cross‐sectional descriptive study was conducted that gathered data from an anonymous online survey of practicing nurses throughout the U.S. Measures tapped EBP knowledge, beliefs, culture, mentorship, implementation, and reported competency for each of the 13 EBP competencies for practicing nurses and an additional 11 competencies for advanced practice nurses.

Results

A total of 2,344 nurses completed the survey from 19 hospitals or healthcare systems. Overall, the nurses reported that they were not yet competent in meeting any of the 24 EBP competencies. Younger nurses and those with higher levels of education reported higher EBP competency (p < .001). The EBP competency scores were not significantly different between nurses in Magnet and non‐Magnet designated organizations (p = .28). There were strong positive associations between EBP competency with EBP beliefs (r = .66) and EBP mentorship (r = .69), a moderate positive association between EBP competency and EBP knowledge (r = .43), and a small positive association between EBP competency and culture (r = .29).

Linking Evidence to Action

There is a tremendous need to enhance nurses’ skills so that they achieve competency in EBP in order to ensure the highest quality of care and best population health outcomes. Academic programs should ensure competency in EBP in students by the time of graduation and healthcare systems should set it as an expectation and standard for all clinicians.
Calculation of the acoustical properties of triadic harmonies
Authors: Cook Norman D.
Published: December 2017

The author reports that the harmonic “tension” and major/minor “valence” of pitch combinations can be calculated directly from acoustical properties without relying on concepts from traditional harmony theory. The capability to compute the well-known types of harmonic triads means that their perception is not simply a consequence of learning an arbitrary cultural “idiom” handed down from the Italian Renaissance. On the contrary, for typical listeners familiar with diatonic music, attention to certain, definable, acoustical features underlies the perception of the valence (modality) and the inherent tension (instability) of three-tone harmonies.
Iodine intake from supplements and diet during pregnancy and child cognitive and motor development: the INMA Mother and Child Cohort Study
Authors: Murcia Mario , Espada Mercedes , Julvez Jordi , Llop Sabrina , Lopez-Espinosa Maria-Jose , Vioque Jesus , Basterrechea Mikel , Riaño Isolina , González Llucia , Alvarez-Pedrerol Mar , Tardón Adonina , Ibarluzea Jesús , Rebagliato Marisa
Published: December 2017

Background

The effect of mild-to-moderate maternal iodine deficiency on the neuropsychological development of their offspring is uncertain. We aimed to assess the association between iodine status during pregnancy and the cognitive and motor development of children at 4–5 years.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study in four Spanish regions with recruitment of pregnant women between 2003 and 2008 and follow-up of their children up to 4–5 years (mean (SD)=4.8 (0.6)). Cognitive and motor function was assessed in 1803 children using the McCarthy Scales of Children’s Abilities. Dietary iodine and supplementation were measured through questionnaires twice during pregnancy. Urinary iodine concentration (UIC) was measured in spot samples. The residuals of a regression of UIC against creatinine were used to define a variable corrected for creatinine (UIC~Cr).

Results

Neither iodine supplements nor iodised salt consumption or maternal UIC were associated with cognitive or motor function. After adjusting for creatinine, children of women with UIC~Cr <100 µg/L had 3.93 (95% CI −6.18 to –1.69) general cognitive scores lower than the reference (150–249 µg/L). Dietary iodine was inversely associated with motor scores and milk but not other dairy products or seafood consumption accounted for this association (beta: −1.36; 95% CI −2.12 to –0.61; per one daily milk serving).

Conclusions

We found an association between low maternal urinary iodine and lower cognitive scores in childhood, although only when corrected for creatinine, adding to the evidence that iodine deficiency may have potential harmful effects on neurodevelopment. Iodine supplementation does not appear to improve child’s neurodevelopment at 4–5 years.
Abstract measure algebras over homogeneous spaces of compact groups
Authors: Ghaani Farashahi Arash
Published: December 2017

This paper presents a systematic study for abstract Banach measure algebras over homogeneous spaces of compact groups. Let [Formula: see text] be a closed subgroup of a compact group [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] be the left coset space associated to the subgroup [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text]. Also, let [Formula: see text] be the Banach measure space consists of all complex measures over [Formula: see text]. Then we introduce the abstract notions of convolution and involution over the Banach measure space [Formula: see text].
Donating money is not the only way to sustain cooperation in public goods game
Authors: Chen Tong , Wu Zheng-Hong , Wang Le
Published: December 2017

Most of the previous studies research cooperation mainly based on donating money in social public goods games. Owing to the lack of income, some people prefer to donate time instead of money to promote the activity, in our daily life. Motivated by this fact, we here investigate the influence of the encouragement of donating time on the evolution of cooperation based on village opera. In our study, we set up two models: one is money-only model (MOM). Donating money is the only choice in MOM. The other is money–time model (MTM). Besides donating money, donating time is an alternative in MTM. Through numerical simulations, we find that compared to MOM, MTM has a faster speed to reach cooperation equilibrium and cost advantage to sustain the same cooperation level, without the effects of income, reputation, satisfaction, emotion and maximum nonmonetary input. However, it should be noted that MTM is better than MOM in a moderate interval of general budget [Formula: see text]. Our results provide stark evidence that the encouragement of donating time can promote and sustain cooperation better than only donating money.
Statistical dynamics of regional populations and economies
Authors: Huo Jie , Wang Xu-Ming , Hao Rui , Wang Peng
Published: December 2017

Quantitative analysis of human behavior and social development is becoming a hot spot of some interdisciplinary studies. A statistical analysis on the population and GDP of 150 cities in China from 1990 to 2013 is conducted. The result indicates the cumulative probability distribution of the populations and that of the GDPs obeying the shifted power law, respectively. In order to understand these characteristics, a generalized Langevin equation describing variation of population is proposed, which is based on the correlations between population and GDP as well as the random fluctuations of the related factors. The equation is transformed into the Fokker–Plank equation to express the evolution of population distribution. The general solution demonstrates a transition of the distribution from the normal Gaussian distribution to a shifted power law, which suggests a critical point of time at which the transition takes place. The shifted power law distribution in the supercritical situation is qualitatively in accordance with the practical result. The distribution of the GDPs is derived from the well-known Cobb–Douglas production function. The result presents a change, in supercritical situation, from a shifted power law to the Gaussian distribution. This is a surprising result–the regional GDP distribution of our world will be the Gaussian distribution one day in the future. The discussions based on the changing trend of economic growth suggest it will be true. Therefore, these theoretical attempts may draw a historical picture of our society in the aspects of population and economy.
Stein-Rule Combination Forecasting on RFID Based Supply Chain
Authors: Wang WenJie , Xu Qi , Fan Dandan
Published: December 2017

Radio frequency identification technology has been applied in many fields, especially in logistics operations and supply chain management. Supply chain coordination among partners, which is the core part of supply chain management, can be more practical and effective through sharing real-time product data along the supply chain tracked by RFID technology. This paper focused on the study of the supply chain collaborative forecasting process by sharing RFID real-time data. The collaborative forecasting process among supply chain partners based on the sharing RFID product data is discussed for product demand decision in the paper at first. Then, a Stein-rule combination-forecasting model is proposed to integrate the forecasting knowledge and coordinate forecasting process between the retailers and manufactures shared the RFID data in the supply chain. Moreover, in order to enhance collaborative forecasting precision an error correction combination-forecasting model is discussed. Finally, the outcomes of mathematics simulation verify that the forecast combinations with Stein-rule estimation rules and error correction algorithms are effective to improve forecast precision and coordinate RFID-based supply chain.
Confinement/deconfinement phase transition in SU (3) Yang–Mills theory in view of dual superconductivity
Authors: Shibata Akihiro , Kondo Kei-Ichi , Kato Seikou , Shinohara Toru
Published: December 2017

In the preceeding works, we have given a non-Abelian dual superconductivity picture for quark confinement, and demonstrated the numerical evidences on the lattice. In this talk, we discuss the confinement and deconfinement phase transition at finite temperature in view of the dual superconductivity. We investigate chromomagnetic monopole currents induced by chromoelectric flux in both confinement and deconfinement phase by the numerical simulations on a lattice at finite temperature, and discuss the role of the chromomagnetic monopole in the confinement/deconfinement phase transition.
Separating dijet resonances using the color discriminant variable
Authors: Simmons E. H. , Chivukula R. S. , Ittisamai P. , Vignaroli N.
Published: December 2017

Color-singlet and color-octet vector bosons predicted in theories beyond the Standard Model have the potential to be discovered as dijet resonances at the LHC. A color-singlet resonance that has leptophobic couplings needs further investigation to be distinguished from a color-octet one. In previous work, we introduced a method for discriminating between the two kinds of resonances when their couplings are flavor-universal, using measurements of the dijet resonance mass, total decay width and production cross-section. Here, we describe two extensions of that work. First, we broaden the method to the case where the vector resonances have flavor non-universal couplings, by incorporating measurements of the heavy-flavor decays of the resonance. Second, we apply the method to separating vector bosons from color-octet scalars and excited quarks.
Null hypersurfaces in de Sitter and anti-de Sitter cosmologies
Authors: Hogan P. A.
Published: December 2017

The study of gravitational waves in the presence of a cosmological constant has led to interesting forms of the de Sitter and anti-de Sitter line elements based on families of null hypersurfaces. The forms are interesting because they focus attention on the geometry of null hypersurfaces in spacetimes of constant curvature. Two examples are worked out in some detail. The first originated in the study of collisions of impulsive gravitational waves in which the post-collision spacetime is a solution of Einstein’s field equations with a cosmological constant, and the second originated in the generalization of plane fronted gravitational waves with parallel rays to include a cosmological constant.
Relationship between Bondi–Sachs quantities and source of gravitational radiation in asymptotically de Sitter spacetime
Authors: He Xiaokai , Jing Jiliang , Cao Zhoujian
Published: December 2017

Gravitational radiation plays an important role in astrophysics. Based on the fact that our universe is expanding, the gravitational radiation when a positive cosmological constant is presented has been studied along with two different ways recently, one is the Bondi–Sachs (BS) framework in which the result is shown by BS quantities in the asymptotic null structure, the other is the perturbation approach in which the result is presented by the quadrupoles of source. Therefore, it is worth to interpret the quantities in asymptotic null structure in terms of the information of the source. In this paper, we investigate this problem and find the explicit expressions of BS quantities in terms of the quadrupoles of source in asymptotically de Sitter spacetime. We also estimate how far away the source is, the cosmological constant may affect the detection of the gravitational wave.
Steady state of isolated systems versus microcanonical ensemble in cell model of particle creation and annihilation
Authors: Gazdzicki M. , Gorenstein M. I. , Fronczak A. , Fronczak P. , Mackowiak-Pawlowska M.
Published: December 2017

A simple model of particle creation and annihilation in an isolated assembly of particles with conserved energy and fixed volume, the Cell Model (CM), is formulated. With increasing time, particle number distribution, obtained by averaging over many systems, approaches a time-independent, steady state (SS) distribution. Dependence of the SS distribution on creation and annihilation conditional reaction probabilities is studied. The results obtained for the SS are compared with predictions of statistical mechanics within the microcanonical ensemble (MCE). In general, the predictions of both models are different. They agree only if the creation and annihilation conditional reaction probabilities are equal. This condition also results in the detailed balance in the SS.
EXPLORING THE ROLE OF VERTICAL HETEROGENEITY IN THE STABILIZATION OF PLANKTONIC ECOSYSTEMS UNDER EUTROPHICATION
Authors: AZZALI IRENE , MOROZOV ANDREW , VENTURINO EZIO
Published: December 2017

Understanding plankton dynamics in marine and lake ecosystems under eutrophication is currently a hot topic in the literature. Simple theoretical models predict appearance of large amplitude oscillations of species densities in nutrient-rich waters; however, such predictions do not always correspond to field observations. Recent models taking into account heterogeneity of the growth rate of phytoplankton and active food-searching behavior of zooplankton demonstrated that grazers can efficiently control phytoplankton densities at low values even for a high nutrient stock. In this paper, we extend the previous modeling findings on the role of fast-moving plankton grazers by exploring a more realistic case where the limiting nutrient is a dynamical variable. Thus, the growth of phytoplankton across the water column depends on both light attenuation and dynamical depletion of nutrients. We also consider a more realistic scenario of a depth-dependent vertical turbulent diffusion. Most of the previous results on stabilization of planktonic ecosystems still hold; however, some alternative mechanisms of bloom suppression can also be possible. In particular, we demonstrate that the foraging of zooplankton according to the ideal free distribution (IFD) of food (which was previously considered to be a crucial condition for stabilization) may be less stabilizing than random foraging of zooplankton. We also show that stable top-down control in the ecosystem would be highly dependent on values of vertical diffusion and on the nutrient concentration in deep layers.
AVIAN INFLUENZA A H7N9 VIRUS HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED IN CHINA
Authors: ZHANG XINAN , ZOU LAN , CHEN JING , FANG YILE , HUANG JICAI , ZHANG JINHUI , LIU SANHONG , FENG GUANGTING , YANG CUIHONG , RUAN SHIGUI
Published: December 2017

In March 2013, a novel avian-origin influenza A H7N9 virus was identified among human patients in China and a total of 124 human cases with 24 related deaths were confirmed by May 2013. From November 2013 to July 2017, H7N9 broke out four more times in China. A deterministic model is proposed to study the transmission dynamics of the avian influenza A H7N9 virus between wild and domestic birds and from birds to humans, and is applied to simulate the open data on numbers of the infected human cases and related deaths reported from March to May 2013 and from November 2013 to June 2014 by the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. The basic reproduction number [Formula: see text] is estimated and sensitivity analysis of [Formula: see text] in terms of model parameters is performed. Taking into account the fact that it broke out again from November 2014 to June 2015, from November 2015 to July 2016, and from October 2016 to July 2017, we believe that H7N9 virus has been well established in birds and will likely cause regular outbreaks in humans again in the future. Control measures for the future spread of H7N9 include (i) reducing the transmission opportunities between wild birds and domestic birds, (ii) closing or monitoring the retail live-poultry markets in the infected areas, and (iii) culling the infected domestic birds in the epidemic regions.
THEORETICAL STUDY ON STRESS SENSITIVITY OF FRACTAL POROUS MEDIA WITH IRREDUCIBLE WATER
Authors: LEI GANG , DONG ZHENZHEN , LI WEIRONG , WEN QINGZHI , WANG CAI
Published: December 2017

The couple flow deformation behavior in porous media has drawn tremendous attention in various scientific and engineering fields. However, though the coupled flow deformation mechanism has been intensively investigated in the last decades, the essential controls on stress sensitivity are not determined. It is of practical significance to use analytic methods to study stress sensitivity of porous media. Unfortunately, because of the disordered and extremely complicated microstructures of porous media, the theoretical model for stress sensitivity is scarce. The goal of this work is to establish a novel and reasonable quantitative model to determine the essential controls on stress sensitivity. The predictions of the theoretical model, derived from the Hertzian contact theory and fractal geometry, agree well with the available experimental data. Compared with the previous models, our model takes into account more factors, including the influence of the water saturation and the microstructural parameters of the pore space. The proposed models can reveal more mechanisms that affect the coupled flow deformation behavior in fractal porous media. The results show that the irreducible water saturation increases with the increase of effective stress, and decreases with the increased rock elastic modulus (or increased power law index) at a given effective stress. The effect of stress variation on porosity is smaller than that on permeability. Under a given effective stress, the normalized permeability (or the normalized porosity) becomes smaller with the decrease of rock elastic modulus (or the decrease of power law index). And a lower capillary pressure will correspond to an increased rock elastic modulus (or an increased power law index) under a given water saturation.
3D FINITE ELEMENT MODELING FOR ESTIMATING KEY MACHINABILITY ASPECTS IN TURNING OF COMMERCIALLY PURE TITANIUM
Authors: KHAN AKHTAR , MAITY KALIPADA
Published: December 2017

The present work aims at numerical approximation in combination with experimental validation of some of the important performance measures in turning of commercially pure titanium (CP-Ti) with uncoated carbide inserts. A three-dimensional (3D) finite element model was developed based on Lagrangian criterion. Simulation of the turning operation was performed using DEFORM 3D software in order to approximate the responses viz. feed force ([Formula: see text], radial force ([Formula: see text], tangential force ([Formula: see text], flank wear (Vb) and machining temperature ([Formula: see text]. Usui’s tool wear model was used to predict the flank wear. Morphology of the free and back surfaces of the chips was examined under a field emission electron microscope (FESEM). Turning experiments were carried out on a heavy duty lathe equipped with a 3D dynamometer. Secondly, a quadratic model was acquired for all the aforementioned quality characteristics using response surface methodology (RSM). Analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was performed to confirm the adequacy of the developed quadratic model. The results obtained from simulation and quadratic model were compared with the experimental data sets. Finally, an error analysis was done to determine the percentage inaccuracy of both the models. The percentage error for all the turning responses, was observed within 6% which showed the satisfactoriness of the proposed approximation tools. However, the simulation model exhibited lower prediction error when compared with the quadratic counterpart.
THE ROLE OF Br AS DOPANT ON THE STRUCTURAL AND CHARGE TRANSPORT PROPERTIES IN CH3NH3PbI3−x−yBrxClyMIXED-HALIDE PEROVSKITE FOR HYBRID SOLAR CELLS
Authors: WANG JINFENG , ZHAO BENGUANG , ZHU LEI , SONG JIAN
Published: December 2017

A series of CH3NH3PbI[Formula: see text]BrxClymixed-halide perovskite were fabricated as light harvesters for organic–inorganic planar heterojunction perovskite solar cells (PSCs). This paper aimed at investigating the morphology and structural properties of Br doped mixed-halide perovskites and the influence on the corresponding photovoltaic performances. We found that Br incorporation in an I/Cl-based structure dramatically improved the charge transport within the perovskite layer. The average efficiency of the planar device was 13.6% with a minimal standard deviation of [Formula: see text] 1.53% and best efficiency as high as 15.13% was achieved. Moreover, the device showed superior stability over 20 days with little degradation [Formula: see text]9% when stored under ambient conditions, indicating the outstanding performances of planar heterojunction solar cells based on this material. The results highlight the crucial role of the Br doping on the performance of the PSCs and pave the way for further progress on this field.
Generation of quasi-single-mode twin-beam states in the high-intensity domain
Authors: Allevi Alessia , Chesi Giovanni , Bondani Maria
Published: December 2017

Single-mode quantum optical states represent an interesting resource for the implementation of quantum information protocols. Here, we address the generation of twin-beam (TWB) states characterized by a quasi-single-mode thermal statistics. In more detail, the selection procedure leading to single-mode states is achieved with a strong filtering applied to intense TWBs generated in a single crystal by parametric downconversion. We investigate the role of pump power in the production of the single-mode states and compare the results obtained with nonlinear crystals having different lengths.
Sampled-data design for sliding mode control based on various robust specifications in open quantum system
Authors: Ji Yinghua , Ju-Ju Hu , Jian-Hua Huang , Qiang Ke
Published: December 2017

Due to the influence of decoherence, the quantum state probably evolves from the initial pure state to the mixed state, resulting in loss of fidelity, coherence and purity, which is deteriorating for quantum information transmission. Thus, in quantum engineering, quantum control should not only realize the transfer and track of quantum states through manipulation of the external electromagnetic field but also enhance the robustness against decoherence. In this paper, we aim to design a control law to steer the system into the sliding mode domain and maintain it in that domain when bounded uncertainties exist in the system Hamiltonian. We first define the required control performance by fidelity, degree of coherence and purity in terms of the uncertainty of the Hamiltonian in Markovian open quantum system. By characterizing the required robustness using a sliding mode domain, a sampled-data design method is introduced for decoherence control in the quantum system. Furthermore, utilizing the sampled data, a control scheme has been designed on the basis of sliding mode control, and the choice of sampling operator and driving of quantum state during the sampling by the Lyapunov control method are discussed.