bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climate change impact on crop production in Central Asian Countries
Authors: Viter Anna , Zsarnóczai Sándor J. , Vasa László
Published: December 2015

Increased risk due to global warming has already become embedded in agricultural decision making in Central Asia and uncertainties are projected to increase even further. Agro-ecology and economies of Central Asia are heterogeneous and very little is known about the impact of climate change at the subnational levels. The bio-economic farm model is used for ex-ante assessment of climate change impacts at sub-national levels in Central Asia. The bio-economic farm model is calibrated to ten farming systems in Central Asia based on the household survey and crop growth experiment data. The production uncertainties and the adaptation options of agricultural producers to changing environments are considered paramount in the simulations. Very large differences in climate change impacts across the studied farming systems are found. The positive income gains in large-scale commercial farms in the northern regions of Kazakhstan and negative impact in small-scale farms in arid zones of Tajikistan are likely to happen. Producers in Kyrgyzstan may expect higher revenues but also higher income volatilities in the future. Agricultural producers in Uzbekistan may benefit in the near future but may lose their income in the distant future. The negative impacts could be further aggravated in arid zones of Central Asia if irrigation water availability decline due to climate change and water demand increase in upstream regions. The scenario simulations show that market liberalization and improved commodity exchange between the countries have very good potential to cope with the negative consequences of climate change.

JEL classification: Q11, Q18
More insurance subsidies for European farmers – is it needed?
Authors: Lóránt Anna , Farkasné Fekete Maria
Published: December 2015

In addition to traditional sources of uncertainties, such as market price volatility and animal and plant health-related risks, the impacts of climate change have recently become a major concern in the agricultural sector throughout the world. Insurance has been commonly proposed as a key instrument in farm risk management, and agricultural insurance schemes have become more widespread both in developed and developing countries. We conducted a case study in the UK to investigate farmers’ risk perception and willingness to pay for crop insurance by using contingent valuation method (CVM). Similarly to the experience from developing countries, we found that farmers are less willing to pay for insurance, however they do take actions to reduce their risks. While these results suggest that the provision of premium subsidies to European farmers can be justified; in order to avoid counter-productive policy outcomes, one may consider the introduction of a risk-based approach in agricultural risk management.

JEL classification: Q14
Integrating environment economy to project management
Authors: Lakatosné Szuhai Györgyi , Poór József
Published: December 2015

Environmental sustainability is a horizontal issue that appears at all level of economic activities and private life. Due to the increasing complexity of regulations, particularly in case of EU funded developments, all the projects need to meet a lot of criteria on environment protection issues. These activities include the conduction of environmental studies, data collection, future emission estimations, improving social attitude, acquiring necessary permissions and environment friendly equipment and finally all the administrative activities to monitor everything mentioned previousThe project management organization increasingly needs a special expertise to meet all the requirements no matter what is the original scope of the project. The study collects different type of knowledge and expertise to manage environment economic issues during project management on four different categories, such as legal, technical, financial or human. The summary of the different type of knowledge provides logical conclusion on how the project management organization should meet the challenges of climate change in terms of daily work and organizational operations.

JEL classification: O22
Job Contract at Birth of the First Child as a Predictor of Women’s Labor Market Attachment: Trajectory Analyses over 11 Years
Authors: Peutere Laura , Vahtera Jussi , Kivimäki Mika , Pentti Jaana , Virtanen Pekka
Published: December 2015

There is a lot of evidence that pre-birth employment and access to parental leave are important predictors of mothers’ labor market attachment after childbirth. This register-based study from Finland aimed to analyze in which ways the type of job contract (none, temporary, or permanent) at the start of maternity leave predicts labor market attachment in the long term. The mother cohorts were followed up for 11 years. Labor market attachment was analyzed with latent class growth analysis, which makes it possible to identify subgroups with differing track and level of development. Lack of employment and having a temporary contract at baseline were associated with slower and weaker labor market attachment irrespective of mother’s age, socioeconomic status, and subsequent births. These findings suggest that the polarization of women into the core and periphery of the labor market structure tends to continue after the birth of the first child. Temporary employment might be an obstacle for having rights for a job-protected family leave and have long-term consequences on the continuity of employment and the division of paid and unpaid work in the family.
Managing Organized Insecurity: The Consequences for Care Workers of Deregulated Working Conditions in Elderly Care
Authors: Ede Lene , Rantakeisu Ulla
Published: December 2015

Part-time work is more than twice as common among women than men in Sweden. New ways of organizing working hours to allow for more full-time jobs have been introduced for care workers in elderly care, which means unscheduled working hours based on the needs of the workplace. The aim of the study is to analyze how the organization of the unscheduled working hours affect employees’ daily lives and their possibility to provide care. The Classic Grounded Theory method was used in a secondary analysis of interviews with employees and managers in Swedish municipal elderly care. The implementation of unscheduled working hours plunged employees into a situation of managing organized insecurity. This main concern for the care workers involved a cyclic process of first having to be available for work because of economic and social obligations to the employer and the co-workers, despite sacrifices in the private sphere. Then, they had to be adaptable in relation to unknown clients and co-workers and to the employer, which means reduced possibilities to provide good care. Full-time jobs were thus created through requiring permanent staff to be flexible, which in effect meant eroded working conditions with high demands on employee adaptability. Solving the part-time problem in elderly care by introducing unscheduled working hours may in effect be counter-productive.
Changing Structures and Women’s Role as Labor Force
Authors: Gonäs Lena , Tyrkkö Arja
Published: December 2015

The objective of this paper is to analyze changes in the development of women’s role as labor force over a 40-year period. This is done by presenting research results that concern the restructuring of the labor market over different time periods. The empirical material is from the 1960s, the heyday of the Swedish model; from the 1980s, the period that economic historians label the third industrial revolution; and from the 1990s, a period labeled the new working life that is covering the reorganization of the public sector. For the first period results from restructuring in the shipyard industry are presented as well as employment outcomes for single individuals. This industry was male dominated with very few women employed, but regional policy measures were implemented to reach a latent female labor force. The second period is covered by a study of closures and cutbacks in different industries in Sweden during 1982–1983. The proportion of women employed in the industries studied was around one third and employment outcomes had a specific gendered pattern. Women did to a lower extent than men get new permanent jobs. Permanent temporariness was introduced as a concept to describe their labor market situation. The recession that one decade later hit both female- and male-dominated sectors is illustrated by a study of the relations between labor market attachment, working life, and family conditions. The material comes from a regional research program based on a questionnaire and on register data on incomes from 1990 to 1999. The paper analyzes several areas related to work and outside of work that indicate a gendered pattern of multidimensional subordination and an increased polarization in terms of both gender and class. In conclusion, the 40 years has been a period of dramatic change in women’s situation as labor force. In times of restructuring they often entered into precarious job situations or unemployment. Women’s double burden proved remarkably resilient when explaining gender differences in employment and working conditions.
From Emancipation through Employment to Emancipation through Entrepreneurship: An Analysis of the Special Labor Market Initiatives (BRYT) and Tax Deduction for Domestic Services (RUT) in Sweden
Authors: Kvist Elin , Overud Johanna
Published: December 2015

Debates on gender equality policy in Sweden assume that women’s labor market participation is central to gender equality and should be promoted via special initiatives and programs. This paper examines how gender equality discourses have changed over time, analyzing Swedish state labor market policy in the 1980s and 1990s, special labor market initiatives to eliminate gender segregation and encourage nontraditional gendered work choices, and contemporary state subsidies for paid domestic work (i.e., tax deduction for domestic services). Critically interpreting these reforms reveals consistencies and continuities in how labor market participation is viewed as the key promoter of gender equality, revealing transformations in how gender equality is understood and constructed. A transition is discernible from state-funded programs and reforms to governmental agencies/authorities and state subsidies to promote enterprise and the growth of specific labor market sectors.
Turn to Practice Within Working Life Studies
Authors: Buch Anders , Andersen Vibeke , Klemsdal Lars
Published: December 2015

What does practice theory and practice-based studies have to offer working life studies? This is the seminal question this special issue poses. In seven articles, researchers with an affiliation to Nordic working life studies and with a background in practice theory illustrate and reflect on how practice theoretical approaches can help working life studies in better understanding work practices and the material, technological, economic, organizational, and societal conditions that shape and are shaped by these practices. In addition, this issue contains three reviews of recent practice theoretical volumes that strive to theorize (work) practices and assess the merits of practice theoretical perspectives.
How the Turn to Practice may contribute to Working Life Studies
Authors: Gherardi Silvia
Published: December 2015

Working life studies and practice-based studies have a common interest for work, and how work is accomplished in situated working conditions. The turn to practice may contribute to renew the study of work. The main concern of a practice-based approach to working practices is to understand the logic of the situation and the performance of action as practical knowledge, which connects working with organizing and knowing with practicing. The article will first illustrate the basic assumptions of an approach to working practices based on a post-humanist practice theory and second it will focus on a specific contribution from it. I shall argue that a practice approach to innovation as a continuous process contributes to a better understanding of how working practices change or persist. In fact, the study of work in situation is not only descriptive in its purpose, but it is also intended to yield practical outcomes for empowering practitioners in their attachment to practicing.
After Practice: A Personal Reflection
Authors: Czarniawska Barbara
Published: December 2015

My text contains more questions than answers, and the answers are only speculative. My first question is: ‘Whose turn to practice took place in 2001?’ The text contains a short review of various meanings of the term in different disciplines. From there I move to the second question, which I find especially relevant for my discipline: management and organization studies. ‘Is ‘reflective practitioner’ an oxymoron?’ I set Niklas Luhmann against Donald Schön in my search for an answer. The third question is: ‘How can bridges between practitioners and theoreticians of management be (re)built?’
Painful Hips and a Nodular Neck: Bilateral Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Leading to the Diagnosis of Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia
Authors: Gladstein Aharon Z. , van Dijck Stephanie , Wasserman Jonathan D. , Howard Andrew
Published: December 2015

Case:

A twelve-year-old slender white girl underwent pinning of a slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) on both the right and left sides. The bilateral nature of the disease and her slender build prompted consideration of an underlying predisposition. She was referred for medical evaluation, which resulted in the identification of medullary thyroid carcinoma.

Conclusion:

This report highlights the importance of recognizing atypical presentations of SCFE and the necessity for investigation of associated comorbid diagnoses. As with this case, atypical SCFE may represent the sentinel event leading to identification of underlying systemic illness and therefore may present an opportunity for early intervention.
Intraosseous Pseudotumor After Knee Viscosupplementation
Authors: Arenas Antonio , Lopez-Blasco Jose Javier , Fernandez Pilar
Published: December 2015

Case:

A sixty-eight-year-old woman with osteoarthritis in the right knee who had received a single injection of a commercial hyaluronic acid preparation presented with an intraosseous mass that had not appeared in previous imaging studies. Open biopsy and curettage was performed, and a reactive pseudotumor related to viscosupplementation was diagnosed. At the last follow-up fourteen months after surgery, the patient had experienced no recurrence of the lesion.

Conclusion:

Viscosupplementation is considered a conservative treatment option for early-stage knee osteoarthritis. To the best of our knowledge, this complication, namely an intraosseous mass, has not been described previously in the literature.
Acidizing Sandstone Reservoirs With Aluminum-Based Retarded Mud Acid
Authors: Ji Qin , Zhou Lijun , Nasr-El-Din Hisham
Published: December 2015

Aluminum chloride (AlCl3) has been used as a retarding agent for mud acid for a long time; its applications are studied in the laboratory and tested in the field. The theory and mechanism of AlCl3 retardation were investigated in many works involving mud acidizing and reservoir-permeability enhancement. This paper furthers this investigation with solubility tests, coreflood tests, and 19F nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to better understand the mechanism of AlCl3 working as a retarding agent in mud acid. The reactivity of Al-based retarded mud acid (15 wt% HCl, 1.5 wt% HF, and 5 wt% AlCl3·6H2O) with clay minerals and sandstones at different conditions has not been examined fully. To enhance the acid performance and to minimize formation damage, a systematic investigation of the interactions between the Al-based retarded mud acid and clay minerals in sandstone reservoirs is provided in this study. Furthermore, for the first time, 19F NMR spectroscopy was used to follow the reactions of Al-based retarded mud acid with clay minerals.

Solubility tests were performed to evaluate the retardation of the Al-based retarded mud acid when reacted with kaolinite, bentonite, and illite. Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) and 19F NMR were used to analyze the concentrations of key cations and components in the supernatant, whereas the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) techniques were used to identify the reaction products and to explore the possibility of the presence of any precipitation. Coreflood tests of sandstone cores were also conducted.

This study shows that AlCl3 can retard the reaction of hydrofluoric acid (HF) with kaolinite, bentonite, or illite at 75 and 200 °F in Al-based retarded mud acid. Even with 5 wt% AlCl3·6H2O added in the acid system, no AlF3 precipitate was observed in any of the solubility tests. 19F NMR results showed that AlF4− and AlF3 were the only Al-F species existing in the spent Al-based retarded mud acid. H2SiF6 and HSiF5 were also identified. Coreflood tests showed significant permeability improvement to Berea sandstone when Al-based retarded mud acid was used, and the enhancement diminished when the temperature increased to 300 °F. Computed-tomography (CT) scan showed deeper penetration of Al-based retarded mud acid than mud acid at 75 °F, and the penetration reduced when temperature increased to 200 °F. On the basis of these results, new mechanisms were developed to better understand the reaction of Al-based retarded mud acid and clay minerals.
A Semianalytical Approach for Obtaining Type Curves of Multiple-Fractured Horizontal Wells With Secondary-Fracture Networks
Authors: Chen Zhiming , Liao Xinwei , Zhao Xiaoliang , Lv Sanbo , Zhu Langtao
Published: December 2015

In naturally fractured reservoirs, complex fracture systems can easily develop along a horizontal wellbore during hydraulic fracturing. In the fracture systems, multiple, discrete secondary fractures are connected to the multiple-fractured horizontal well (MFHW). Because of the fracture complexity, most studies about performance forecast of such MFHWs highly depend on numerical simulators.

In this paper, a new semianalytical approach is proposed to overcome the challenge to analyze the pressure behavior of MFHWs in complex-fracture systems. First, a mathematical model for MFHWs with secondary-fracture networks is established. Then, with Gauss elimination and the Stehfest numerical algorithm (Stehfest 1970), the transient-pressure solution of the mathematical model is solved, and type curves of MFHWs with secondary-fracture networks are obtained. After that, model validation and sensitivity analysis are conducted.

It is found that the presented approach can rapidly and accurately generate type curves of MFHWs with secondary-fracture networks. This work provides very meaningful references for reservoir engineers in fracturing evaluations as well as performance estimations of MFHWs in naturally fractured reservoirs.
Improvement of the Performance of an Electrocoagulation Process System Using Fuzzy Control of pH
Authors: Demirci Yavuz , Pekel Lutfiye Canan , Altinten Ayla , Alpbaz Mustafa
Published: December 2015

The removal efficiencies of electrocoagulation (EC) systems are highly dependent on the initial value of pH. If an EC system has an acidic influent, the pH of the effluent increases during the treatment process; conversely, if such a system has an alkaline influent, the pH of the effluent decreases during the treatment process. Thus, changes in the pH of the wastewater affect the efficiency of the EC process. In this study, we investigated the dynamic effects of pH. To evaluate approaches for preventing increases in the pH of the system, the MATLAB/Simulink program was used to develop and evaluate an on‐line computer‐based system for pH control. The aim of this work was to study Proportional‐Integral‐Derivative (PID) control and fuzzy control of the pH of a real textile wastewater purification process using EC. The performances and dynamic behaviors of these two control systems were evaluated based on determinations of COD, colour, and turbidity removal efficiencies.
Effect of Copper and Other Trace Metal Addition to Pulp and Paper Wastewater
Authors: Barnett Jason , Richardson Desmond , Stack Karen , Lewis Trevor
Published: December 2015

Porous pots were used to mimic, on a laboratory scale, an industrial activated sludge plant from a thermomechanical pulp and newsprint paper mill. Trace metal additions of Ca, Co, Cu, Fe(III), and Mg were found to improve chemical oxygen demand removal from 82% to 86 to 87%. Copper (0.1 to 1.0 mg/L) was also found to be beneficial in significantly inhibiting the growth of filamentous bacteria, contributing to a reduction of 20 to 45% in sludge volume index (SVI) with improved settleability and decreased bulking. However, at levels of 1.0 mg/L and higher, the concentration of Cu in the porous pot effluent would potentially exceed guidelines for receiving waters. The fate and impact of Cu was affected by the presence of other trace metals, in particular Mg and Ca. The addition of Mg or Ca along with 0.5 mg/L Cu increased the amount of Cu in the aqueous phase to levels that would potentially exceed government environmental guidelines. Calcium addition was also found to inhibit the effect of Cu in reducing filamentous bacteria and SVI.
Expanding DEMON Sidestream Deammonification Technology Towards Mainstream Application
Authors: Wett B. , Podmirseg S.M. , Gómez‐Brandón M , Hell M. , Nyhuis G. , Bott C. , Murthy S.
Published: December 2015

A cross‐Atlantic R&D‐cooperation involving three large utilities investigated the feasibility of mainstream deammonification—the application of partial nitritation/anammox for full‐plant treatment of municipal wastewater at ambient temperatures. Two major process components have been implemented, 1) bioaugmentation of aerobic‐ and anaerobic ammonia oxidizers (AOB and AMX) from the DEMON‐sidestream sludge liquor treatment to the mainstream and 2) implementation of hydrocyclones to select for anammox granules and retain them in the system. Different operation modes have been tested at laboratory‐ and pilot‐scale in order to promote the short‐cut (more direct anammox route) in nitrogen removal metabolism. At the full‐scale installation at Strass WWTP, stable repression of nitrite oxidizing biomass (NOB) has been achieved for several months. Significant anammox enrichment in the mainstream has been monitored while high efficiency in the sidestream‐process has been maintained (96% annual average ammonia removal).
The Comparative Effectiveness of Diabetes Prevention Strategies to Reduce Postpartum Weight Retention in Women With Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: The Gestational Diabetes’ Effects on Moms (GEM) Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Ferrara Assiamira , Hedderson Monique M. , Brown Susan D. , Albright Cheryl L. , Ehrlich Samantha F. , Tsai Ai-Lin , Caan Bette J. , Sternfeld Barbara , Gordon Nancy P. , Schmittdiel Julie A. , Gunderson Erica P. , Mevi Ashley A. , Herman William H. , Ching Jenny , Crites Yvonne , Quesenberry Charles P.
Published: December 2015

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of diabetes prevention strategies addressing postpartum weight retention for women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) delivered at the health system level: mailed recommendations (usual care) versus usual care plus a Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP)–derived lifestyle intervention.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This study was a cluster randomized controlled trial of 44 medical facilities (including 2,280 women with GDM) randomized to intervention or usual care. The intervention included mailed gestational weight gain recommendations plus 13 telephone sessions between 6 weeks and 6 months postpartum. Primary outcomes included the following: proportion meeting the postpartum goals of 1) reaching pregravid weight if pregravid BMI <25.0 kg/m2 or 2) losing 5% of pregravid weight if BMI ≥25.0 kg/m2; and pregravid to postpartum weight change.

RESULTS

On average, over the 12-month postpartum period, women in the intervention had significantly higher odds of meeting weight goals than women in usual care (odds ratio [OR] 1.28 [95% CI 1.10, 1.47]). The proportion meeting weight goals was significantly higher in the intervention than usual care at 6 weeks (25.5 vs. 22.4%; OR 1.17 [1.01, 1.36]) and 6 months (30.6 vs. 23.9%; OR 1.45 [1.14, 1.83]). Condition differences were reduced at 12 months (33.0 vs. 28.0%; OR 1.25 [0.96, 1.62]). At 6 months, women in the intervention retained significantly less weight than women in usual care (mean 0.39 kg [SD 5.5] vs. 0.95 kg [5.5]; mean condition difference −0.64 kg [95% CI −1.13, −0.14]) and had greater increases in vigorous-intensity physical activity (mean condition difference 15.4 min/week [4.9, 25.8]).

CONCLUSIONS

A DPP-derived lifestyle intervention modestly reduced postpartum weight retention and increased vigorous-intensity physical activity.
Karl Polayni, Market Economy and Economic Liberalisation in Nepal
Authors: Pandey Krishna P.
Published: December 2015

This review essay is a short account for Karl Polanyi’s alternative interpretation of the world economic history that largely relies on the comparative analysis of two forms of economic exchanges; non-market and market. The replacement of reciprocity and redistribution produced by the market economy based on the principles of profit making, gain and competition, in which money has a central role, is the key argument that Polanyi brings into consideration. His notion of market economy that is self-regulating by its very nature has been synonymous with the free market practice under economic liberalization policy adopted by the capitalist societies nowadays. Despite his projection of the collapse of the market economy in the future, it is gaining ground along with frequent adjustments, adaptations and compromises with other dynamics of society, which could be considered as a new form of embeddedness. The essay raises few analytical issues embeddedness from Nepal’s exercise of market economy on the backdrop of Polanyi’s notion of self-regulating market.Crossing the Border: International Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies Vol.3(1) 2015: 11-20
Cultural Change and Human Behavior: Evolution or Development?
Authors: Fave Antonella Delle , Massimini Fausto
Published: December 2015

The study of cultures in today’s world has become a major academic exercise. There are many challenges and problems for human beings that are created by the relationship between cultural inheritance and individuals, namely, through modernization and globalization processes. ! e immediate outcomes of these challenges and problems are ethnic conflicts, cultural clash and other cultural competitions. In order to maintain peace in the world and foster the mutual cooperation among the individuals, each individual has to be an active participant in the attainment of a sustainable development of the whole human system. The main focus of this paper, thus, is to analyze human behavior, as a way of understanding underlying powers of the interplay of biology and culture. Crossing the Border: International Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies Vol.3(1) 2015: 41-52
Arsenic Contamination in the Deep and Shallow Groundwater of Bara District, Nepal
Authors: Kayastha Sadhana Pradhanang
Published: December 2015

Groundwater is the main source of drinking water in the Tarai region of Nepal. Communities depend on drinking water of dug wells and tube wells. Altogether thirty six groundwater samples were randomly collected from dug wells and tube wells of Bara District, during pre-monsoon in 2012. The depths of the wells, ranged from 10 to 70 m. Atomic Absorption Spectrometer (AAS), were used to measure the concentration of arsenic. About 50% of tube wells exceeded permissible values of WHO guideline (10 ppb), but 12.5 % tube wells exceeded permissible values of Nepal interim standard of arsenic (50 ppb). The risk of arsenic is high because the contaminated water has been continuously used for cooking, drinking and other purposes. This alarming situation therefore calls for measures to mitigate the problem.Crossing the Border: International Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies Vol.3(1) 2015: 65-70
Sexual Transgression for Power and Identity: A Glimpse on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night
Authors: Sharma Radha Devi
Published: December 2015

Crossing social restrictions for identity and status is often the act of dissatisfying group in every society. Shakespearean society which was basically patriarchal and male-dominate set strict restrictions to impose on women’s sphere. However, the suppressed women’s voice sometimes denied the social restrictions in different ways as cross-dressing going beyond the boundary of women’s sexuality. Cross-dressing as sexual transgression was often committed in the actual life of English Renaissance and also in the literary world for independent identity, power and authority. In this regard, this article tries to explore on the sexual transgression committed by the main female character, Viola in the play Twelfth Night to get identity and fulfill her inner desire challenging the socially prescribed norms of gender and sexuality. Crossing the Border: International Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies Vol.3(1) 2015: 71-80
Historical Analysis of Tunnel Approach Displacements with Satellite Remote Sensing
Authors: Hoppe Edward J. , Kweon Young-Jun , Bruckno Brian S. , Acton Scott T. , Bolton Lauren , Becker Andrew , Vaccari Andrea
Published: December 2015

Historical displacements of tunnel boat sections at the approaches to the Monitor–Merrimac Memorial Bridge–Tunnel (MMMBT) in Virginia were investigated as a potential reason for ongoing seawater infiltration. Archived data collected from December 2001 to March 2010 by the Radarsat-1 Earth-orbiting radar satellite were analyzed. Millimetric precision was achieved in displacement measurements over an area of approximately 100 km2, including the MMMBT and adjacent regions of Suffolk and Newport News, Virginia. Data consisting of 42 radar acquisitions were processed by using the interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) differential technique. Additional statistical analyses were conducted on selected points of interest. Results of the historical analysis of satellite radar remote sensing data indicated no significant displacements of the tunnel boat sections during the study period. The annual displacement rate precision of the tunnel boat sections was estimated to be ±1 mm/year at the 95th percentile confidence level. Thus, settlement of the constructed islands was unlikely to have been a reason for the ongoing water infiltration.
Modified Unconfined Compression Testing System to Characterize Stress–Strain Behavior of Unsaturated Soils at Low Confining Stresses
Authors: Li Lin , Zhang Xiong
Published: December 2015

In geotechnical and pavement engineering, many projects involve shallow, unsaturated soil with low confining stress. Suction-controlled triaxial tests usually are used to investigate stress–strain behavior (i.e., deformation and strength) in such soils. However, because they require significant modifications to the conventional apparatus used to test saturated soils and are time-consuming to perform, the tests cannot be justified for time-sensitive engineering projects. A modified unconfined compression testing system is presented to investigate the stress–strain behavior of unsaturated soils at low confining stresses. Negative air pressure (i.e., vacuum) provides the low confining pressure required for the tests, and high-suction tensiometers are used to monitor variations in the soil matric suction during testing. A photogrammetric method is used to reconstruct the three-dimensional model of unsaturated soil specimens, from which total and localized volume changes are calculated. Methods are proposed for unsaturated shear strength analysis. A series of tests was carried out to demonstrate the use of the modified unconfined compression testing system to evaluate the stress-strain behavior of unsaturated soil under different confining stresses. Results indicated that the newly developed modified unconfined compression testing system was a cost-effective method for the rapid evaluation of stress–strain behavior of unsaturated soils under low confining stresses.
Evaluation of the Safety Effectiveness of the Conversion of Two-Lane Roadways to Four-Lane Divided Roadways
Authors: Ahmed Mohamed M. , Abdel-Aty Mohamed , Park Juneyoung
Published: December 2015

This paper uses various observational before–after analyses to evaluate the safety effectiveness of widening urban and rural two-lane to four-lane divided roadways. The methods range from simple (naive) before–after, before–after with comparison group, empirical Bayes (EB), and Bayesian approach. The EB method requires safety performance functions (SPFs) to be calibrated; the simple SPF based on annual average daily traffic (AADT) is used widely. In this paper, two sets of negative binomial models are calibrated: the full SPF model, which uses various explanatory covariates, and the simple SPF, which uses AADT only. The preliminary results from the calibrated models indicate that the SPF is pivotal in the EB method; the more accurate the models, the more pragmatic the evaluation of the safety effectiveness of a treatment. The proposed method of using the full SPF in the EB method is recommended over the conventional EB observational before–after. To obtain more reliable estimates, the Bayesian before–after approach is performed. The Bayesian bivariate Poisson–lognormal approach provides comparable results and may have several advantages over the EB technique. The results from this paper indicate that the conversion from two-lane roadways to four-lane divided roadways results in a notable reduction in fatal and injury crashes of more than 63% on urban roadways and 45% on rural roadways. Conversion to a four-lane divided roadway produces a higher reduction in total and property damage only crashes in urban areas than it did in rural areas. In addition, the safety effects of the conversion appear to be more effective on roadway segments in urban areas with a high AADT value.
Assessment of ice flow dynamics in the zone close to the calving front of Antarctic ice shelves
Authors: Wearing Martin G. , Hindmarsh Richard C.A. , Worster M. Grae
Published: December 2015

We investigate the relationship between four ice-shelf characteristics in the area close to the calving front: ice flow speed, strain rate, ice thickness and shelf width. Data are compiled for these glaciological parameters at the calving fronts of 22 Antarctic ice shelves. Clarification concerning the viscous supply of ice to the calving front is sought following the empirical calving law of Alley and others (2008), derived from a similar but smaller dataset, and the scaling analysis of Hindmarsh (2012). The dataset is analysed and good agreement is observed between the expected theoretical scaling and geophysical data for the flow of ice near the calving front in the case of ice shelves that are laterally confined and have uniform rheology. The lateral confinement ensures flow is aligned in the along-shelf direction, and uniform rheological parameters mean resistance to flow is provided by near-stationary ice in the grounded margins. In other cases, the velocity is greater than predicted, which we attribute to marginal weakening or the presence of ice tongues.
En Chine, l'environnement entre dans le droit positif
Authors: Deprimoz Jacques
Published: December 2015

Peu nombreux sont les Européens qui connaissent la loi chinoise d'orientation sur la protection de l'environnement datant du 26 décembre 1989. Cette chronique en distingue les cinq chapitres respectivement consacrés à une définition de l'environnement, aux missions dévolues aux organismes gouvernementaux chargés de fixer des normes de qualité, aux mesures de protection imposées aux entreprises polluantes, aux règles de prévention à observer et aux sanctions administratives, voire judiciaires consécutives aux infractions constatées au plan national ou régional.
La sauvegarde de l'environnement antarctique, quarante ans après le traité originel ou l'émergence d'une conscience écologique
Authors: Leroux Emilia
Published: December 2015

Le droit de l'Antarctique correspond à des normes liées à un milieu unique. Certaines de ces normes élaborées en commun entrent parfois en conflit avec des normes de droit international classique. Le régime de l'Antarctique est fondé sur un régime fonctionnel (coopération scientifique, démilitarisation, inspection) conçu, selon le préambule du Traité de Washington, dans l'intérêt et le progrès de l'humanité tout entière. Le Protocole de Madrid souhaite une approche globale intégrée de l'environnement. Cependant, les problèmes cruciaux liés directement à la présence de l'homme sur ce continent, comme l'implantation des bases scientifiques exigeant une gestion rigoureuse des déchets et plus récemment le tourisme, font craindre pour la protection de l'environnement antarctique. Il incombe à l'ensemble des Etats parties de prendre des réglementations adaptées aux nouvelles agressions du milieu.
Evolution du droit à la qualité de la vie. De la protection de la santé à la promotion du bien-être
Authors: Steichen Pascale
Published: December 2015

La notion de qualité de vie a évolué. Centrée au départ sur la satisfaction des besoins essentiels, au premier rang desquels figure le droit à la vie et le droit à la santé, elle s'oriente aujourd'hui vers la prise en compte d'autres objectifs qui intègrent davantage le bien-être des individus. L'évolution est flagrante en droit de l'environnement où les situations de pollution sont appréhendées par la Cour européenne des droits de l'homme, indépendamment de leur répercution sur la santé, à partir du moment où elles affectent la sensibilité des personnes. A cet égard, la référence de plus en plus fréquente à la notion de « dignité humaine » permet également de donner un contenu « qualitatif » à la protection de l'être humain dans tous les aspects liés à sa vie sociale.
Virtual Reality to Assess and Treat Lower Extremity Disorders in Post-stroke Patients
Authors: Oliva-Pascual-Vaca A. , Kiper P. , Rodríguez-Blanco C. , Agostini M. , Turolla A. , Luque-Moreno C.
Published: December 2015

Introduction: This article is part of the Focus Theme of Methods of Information in Medicine on “Methodologies, Models and Algorithms for Patients Rehabilitation”. Objectives: To identify support of a virtual reality system in the kinematic assessment and physiotherapy approach to gait disorders in individuals with stroke. Methods: We adapt Virtual Reality Rehabilitation System (VRRS), software widely used in the functional recovery of the upper limb, for its use on the lower limb of hemiplegic patients. Clinical scales have been used to relate them with the kinematic assessment provided by the system. A description of the use of reinforced feedback provided by the system on the recovery of deficits in several real cases in the field of physiotherapy is performed. Specific examples of functional tasks have been detailed, to be considered in creating intelligent health technologies to improve post-stroke gait. Results: Both participants improved scores on the clinical scales, the kinematic parameters in leg stance on plegic lower extremity and walking speed > Minimally Clinically Important Difference (MCID). Conclusion: The use of the VRRS software attached to a motion tracking capture system showed their practical utility and safety in enriching physiotherapeutic assessment and treatment in post-stroke gait disorders.
Self-organization of gold nanoparticles on silanated surfaces
Authors: Kyaw Htet H , Al-Harthi Salim H , Sellai Azzouz , Dutta Joydeep
Published: December 2015

The self-organization of monolayer gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) on 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES)-functionalized glass substrate is reported. The orientation of APTES molecules on glass substrates plays an important role in the interaction between AuNPs and APTES molecules on the glass substrates. Different orientations of APTES affect the self-organization of AuNps on APTES-functionalized glass substrates. The as grown monolayers and films annealed in ultrahigh vacuum and air (600 °C) were studied by water contact angle measurements, atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, UV–visible spectroscopy and ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy. Results of this study are fundamentally important and also can be applied for designing and modelling of surface plasmon resonance based sensor applications.
Smart molecules for imaging, sensing and health (SMITH)
Authors: Smith Bradley D
Published: December 2015

This autobiographical review provides a personal account of the author’s academic journey in supramolecular chemistry, including brief summaries of research efforts in membrane transport, molecular imaging, ion-pair receptors, rotaxane synthesis, squaraine rotaxanes, and synthtavidin technology. The article concludes with a short perspective of likely future directions in biomedical supramolecular chemistry.
Justice écologique et adaptation au changement climatique : le cas des petits territoires insulaires
Authors: Berthe Alexandre , Ferrari Sylvie
Published: December 2015

Cet article étudie les politiques d’adaptation au changement climatique dans le cas des petits territoires insulaires. Il permet d’identifier des situations de justice associées à des espaces insulaires soumis à l’élévation du niveau des mers. En considérant l’exemple d’un État constitué de deux îles, puis celui d’un monde à deux États insulaires, l’analyse des principes de justice est réalisée à partir de deux approches de la justice – une justice située et une justice globale. Finalement, en réunissant les dimensions intragénérationnelle et intergénérationnelle de la justice, le cadre d’une justice écologique globale est proposé.
Prevalence of Advance Directives Among Older Adults Admitted to Intensive Care Units and Requiring Mechanical Ventilation
Authors: Gamertsfelder Elise M. , Seaman Jennifer Burgher , Tate Judith , Buddadhumaruk Praewpannarai , Happ Mary Beth
Published: December 2015

Because older adults are at high risk for hospitalization and potential decisional incapacity, advance directives are important components of pre-hospital advanced care planning, as they document individual preferences for future medical care. The prevalence of pre-hospital advance directive completion in 450 critically ill older adults requiring mechanical ventilation from two Mid-Atlantic hospitals is described, and demographic and clinical predictors of pre-hospital advance directive completion are explored. The overall advance directive completion rate was 42.4%, with those in older age groups (75 to 84 years and 85 and older) having approximately two times the odds of completion. No significant differences in the likelihood of advance directive completion were noted by sex, race, or admitting diagnosis. The relatively low prevalence of advance directive completion among older adults with critical illness and high mortality rate (24%) suggest a need for greater awareness and education. [
Journal of Gerontological Nursing, 42
(4), 34–41.]
Shared Curriculum Model: A Promising Practice for Education Transformation
Authors: Close Liz , Gorski Mary Sue , Sroczynski Maureen , Farmer Pat , Wortock Jean
Published: December 2015

Background:

The shared curriculum model is one of four successful models of academic progression identified through a consensus-building process facilitated by The Future of Nursing: Campaign for Action, with support from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, AARP, and the AARP Foundation.

Method:

Seamless academic progression from the associate degree in nursing (ADN) to the baccalaureate degree in nursing (BSN) is achieved either by simultaneously revising both ADN and BSN curricula or by making targeted adjustments in ADN or BSN curricula to create a unified academic progression. Systematic vetting and definitive agreement on nursing prerequisites and corequisites, general education courses, nursing major content, and general degree requirements are necessary to ensure coordinated degree progression. A standardized set of expectations for beginning professional practice and for unique baccalaureate nursing knowledge ensures vital nursing content across the ADN-to-BSN continuum.

Results:

Examples of state and regional ADN-to-BSN progression programs using the shared curriculum model are highlighted.

Conclusion:

The shared curriculum model is a promising practical and sustainable approach to seamless ADN-to-BSN academic progression. [
J Nurs Educ
. 2015;54(12):677–682.]
Evaluation of Patients' Satisfaction With Nursing Students' Care on a Perinatology Ward
Authors: Oskay Ümran , Güngör Ilkay , Basgöl Sükran
Published: December 2015

Background:

The aim of this study was to evaluate patient satisfaction with the care provided by nursing students on a perinatology ward.

Method:

The sample for this descriptive study included 210 patients. Data were collected using an interview form and the Turkish version of the Oncology Patients' Perceptions of the Quality of Nursing Care Scale-Short Form.

Results:

According to the mean scores for all subscales in the instrument, patients were highly satisfied with the care they received from the nursing students. Multivariate analysis revealed that the reason for hospitalization was found to be the most statistically significant factor affecting patient perceptions of quality of care.

Conclusion:

A high level of satisfaction with the care provided by nursing students indicates that the students were able to meet the patients' needs, which may serve as an indicator of the quality of nursing education and quality of care provided by future nurses. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(12):696–703.]
Engagement and Creation of Professional Identity in Undergraduate Nursing Students: A Convention-Style Orientation Event
Authors: Burkhardt Melanie Sue , Gower Shelley , Flavell Helen , Taplin John
Published: December 2015

Background:

In an innovative event that challenged traditional orientation programs, the Curtin University School of Nursing and Midwifery brought together nursing students, academic and student support staff, and health industry representatives. This unique whole-of-school convention consisted of sessions tailored to each student year group and aimed to promote nursing identity, highlight leadership opportunities, and showcase employer pathways.

Method:

To evaluate the event, a survey approach was used to collect quantitative data via questionnaire and qualitative data via open-ended questions from first-year students (
n
= 113), staff (
n
= 24), and industry representatives (
n
= 14).

Results:

Students, staff, and industry evaluations indicated a successful event that achieved its goals, including student engagement and motivation and community building.

Conclusion:

This orientation model could be used as a basis for institution-wide engagement activities. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(12):712–715.]