bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An improved method for determining microbially available phosphorus in drinking water
Authors: Wen Gang , Deng Qin , Huang Ting-Lin , Ma Jun
Published: March 2016

Microbially available phosphorus (MAP) is the labile phosphorus that is readily assimilated by microorganisms, which is linearly correlated to bacterial re-growth in drinking water in some regions. The conventional MAP bioassay for drinking water was originally developed by Markku based on the growth potential of Pseudomonas fluorescens P17 (P17). However, the bioassay bears some demerits, such as time-consuming and labor-intensive enumeration. For convenience, an alternative method based on a similar principle was developed to assess the content of MAP in drinking water, in which natural microbial consortium was used as inoculum instead of pure culture P17, cell number was counted using flow cytometry (FCM), and cultivation at 30 °C was adopted. Natural microbial consortium is able to efficiently utilize organic phosphorus and exhibit high sensitivity since more cells are produced per μg P utilized. FCM is a rapid method to count all bacteria growing in drinking water. With incubation temperature increasing up to 30 °C, there is a shorter test period (64 h), excellent sensitivity and better utilization efficiency for organic phosphorus. The results show that the developed bioassay is sensitive, time-saving and easily operated.
Nanoscale zero-valent iron incorporated with nanomagnetic diatomite for catalytic degradation of methylene blue in heterogeneous Fenton system
Authors: Zha Yiming , Zhou Ziqing , He Haibo , Wang Tianlin , Luo Liqiang
Published: March 2016

Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) incorporated with nanomagnetic diatomite (DE) composite material was prepared for catalytic degradation of methylene blue (MB) in heterogeneous Fenton system. The material was constructed by two facile steps: Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles were supported on DE by chemical co-precipitation method, after which nZVI was incorporated into magnetic DE by liquid-phase chemical reduction strategy. The as-prepared catalyst was characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, magnetic properties measurement and nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherm measurement. The novel nZVI@Fe3O4-diatomite nanocomposites showed a distinct catalytic activity and a desirable effect for degradation of MB. MB could be completely decolorized within 8 min and the removal efficiency of total organic carbon could reach to 90% after reaction for 1 h.
Modelling runoff on ceramic tile roofs using the kinematic wave equations
Authors: Silveira A. , Abrantes J. R. C. B. , de Lima J. L. M. P. , Lira L. C.
Published: March 2016

Generally, roofs are the best candidates for rainwater harvesting. In this context, the correct evaluation of the quantity and quality of runoff from roofs is essential to effectively design rainwater harvesting systems. This study aims to evaluate the performance of a kinematic wave based numerical model in simulating runoff on sloping roofs, by comparing the numerical results with the ones obtained from laboratory rainfall simulations on a real-scale Lusa ceramic tile roof. For all studied slopes, simulated discharge hydrographs had a good adjust to observed ones. Coefficient of determination and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency values were close to 1.0. Particularly, peak discharges, times to peak, peak durations and runoff volumes were very well simulated.
Congestion Risk Evaluation and Precaution of Passenger Flow in Metro Stations
Authors: Lu Kai , Han Baoming
Published: March 2016

Given the security problems of the urban rail transportation, this paper proposes a methodology for congestion
risk evaluation and precaution in order to guarantee the safety of passengers and improve the operation efficiency in metro
stations. To begin with, we selected the retention rate of the platform, the waiting rate of the ticket gate and the transfer
efficiency as the indexes for the station congestion precaution system and created models to calculate the threshold
respectively. By reasonably combining these three indexes, a congestion warning level function was set up to evaluate the
congestion risk and determine the warning level. The characteristics of the proposed model are its quick decision results
and ease of handling. With the determined warning level, some strategies are suggested to relieve the pressure. Finally, a
practical application in Beijing’s GuoMao metro station was performed to verify the feasibility and practicability of the
proposed congestion precaution model.
Experimental viscosity measurements of biodiesels at high pressure
Authors: Schaschke C.J.
Published: March 2016

The viscosity of biodiesels of soybean and rapeseed biodiesels blended with
mineral diesel fuel were measured at pressures of up to 200 MPa. Using a
falling sinker-type viscometer reproducible viscosity data were obtained
based on the time taken for a sinker to descend a fixed distance down an
enclosed tube under the influence of gravity. Measurements were taken using
pressures which correspond to those of interest in automotive common rail
diesel engines, and at temperatures of between 25?C and 80?C. In all cases,
the viscosity of the biodiesel blends were found to increase exponentially
for which the blends were noted as being more viscous than pure mineral
fuels. A pressure-freezing effect was not observed for the blends.
Potential of the City of Belgrade’s urban areas and establishment of institutional, strategic and planning framework for utilization of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency within the City of Belgrade
Authors: Lalosevic Marija , Komatina Mirko , Milos Marko , Kanacki Filip
Published: March 2016

The paper analyzes the potential of renewable energy sources within the area
of City of Belgrade, and explores the possibilities of their further
implementation in the field of renewable energy sources and energy
efficiency, in line with mandatory EU Directives. A synergetic approach has
been proposed in the recommendations for the implementation of goals/targets
and policies in the fields of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency
in the City of Belgrade. They put an emphasis on the importance of
implementation of the strategic documents of the City. Recommendations on
have been provided regarding the required institutional preconditions that
have to be met in order for these goals to be achieved, as well as urbanistic
and building design-related measures/standards in achieving energy
efficiency.
Individualization concept in housing architecture
Authors: Stoiljkovic Branislava , Petkovic-Grozdanovic Natasa , Jovanovic Goran
Published: March 2016

Although single-family housing in the city is considered higher quality and
preferred type of housing, housing crisis, as a permanent actual problem in
the world, requires adequate solutions. In this sense, housing in
multi-family housing buildings can be considered as a necessity (social,
moral, economic, etc.), but in fact, now and in the future, it is the main
form of housing construction which can give the solution for housing
problems. However, to make this housing type more attractive and acceptable
to the occupants, it is necessary to improve it by the implementation of
individualization modalities, and in that way make its qualities much closer
to the preferred single-family housing.
Comparative analysis of design methods of transversally loaded diaphragms
Authors: Bonic Zoran , Prolovic Verka , Romic Nikola , Davidovic Nebojsa , Zlatanovic Elefterija
Published: March 2016

Reinforced concrete diaphragms are in-built supporting structures constructed
directly in the ground. They are intended for reception of lateral soil
pressures, and due to the thickness-height ratio they belong to the group of
deformable structures. The paper presents different design methods of
transversally loaded diaphragms as well as constitutive soil models which can
be used on this occasion. For comparison of the described methods, one
example of design of reinforced-concrete diaphragm with the analysis of
obtained results was done. The diaphragm is firstly treated using classical
analytical methods, and then using the numerical methods based on the concept
of problem discretization using finite differences method and the STRESS,
TOWER and PLAXIS software. The goal of the paper is as accurate prediction of
the diaphragm and surrounding soil behavior as possible, as well as finding
of the relevant impacts required for the design.
Vegetation Change After 65 Years of Grazing and Grazing Exclusion
Authors: Courtois Danielle R. , Perryman Barry L. , Hussein Hussein S. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

The Nevada Plots exclosure system was constructed in 1937 following passage of the Taylor Grazing Act to assess long-term effects of livestock grazing on Nevada rangelands. A comparison of vegetation characteristics inside and outside exclosures was conducted during 2001 and 2002 at 16 sites. Data analysis was performed with a paired t test. Out of 238 cover and density comparisons between inside and outside exclosures at each site, 34 (14% of total) were different (P 0.05). Generally, where differences occurred, basal and canopy cover were greater inside exclosures and density was greater outside. Shrubs were taller inside exclosures at 3 sites grazed by sheep (Ovis aries). Perennial grasses showed no vertical height difference. Aboveground plant biomass production was different at only 1 site. Plant community diversity inside and outside exclosures were equal at 11 of 16 sites. Species richness was similar at all sites and never varied 4 species at any site. Few changes in species composition, cover, density, and production inside and outside exclosures have occurred in 65 years, indicating that recovery rates since pre-Taylor Grazing Act conditions were similar under moderate grazing and grazing exclusion on these exclosure sites.
Controls on Willow Cutting Survival in a Montane Riparian Area
Authors: Gage Edward A. , Cooper David J. ,   Society for Range Management
Published: March 2016

To provide information to guide restoration of montane riparian willow communities, we investigated factors influencing the survival of prerooted and unrooted mountain willow (Salix monticola Bebb) cuttings in 2 degraded montane riparian areas in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado. We planted cuttings across a gradient of water table depths and soil textures and evaluated their survival using logistic regression analysis. Our results indicate that depth to groundwater was a critical factor influencing survival of both rooted and unrooted cuttings. We found that few cuttings (7.8% rooted, 3.9% unrooted) survived where summer water table depths exceeded approximately 90 cm. Soil texture was not a significant factor in our logistic models, potentially because of low silt and clay fractions in our plots. Rooted cuttings survived at a higher rate than unrooted cuttings after 1 (55.8% vs. 36.5%, P < 0.001) and 2 (44.5% vs. 26.1%, P < 0.001) years of growth. We conclude that, when combined with appropriate hydrologic data, the use of rooted cuttings represents an effective technique to restore and revegetate degraded montane riparian ecosystems.
Multi-band asymmetric transmission and mutual conversion in near-infrared band
Authors: Zhai Xiao-Min , Yao Li-Fang , Wang Hui-Bo , Dong Jian-Feng
Published: March 2016

A bilayered chiral structure with double split-ring resonators on both sides of the dielectric substrate is proposed, which can achieve asymmetric transmission of both linearly and circularly polarized waves propagating forward and backward in near-infrared band, in contrast to previously reported chiral structures that can realize asymmetric transmission of either linearly or circularly polarized waves only. In addition, numerical simulation results demonstrate that our scheme can realize multi-band asymmetric transmission with a mutual conversion(x-to-y, and y-to-x) of linearly polarized electromagnetic waves for one propagating direction only. The realization of the multi-band asymmetric transmission can be attributed to the combination of two independently coaxial split-ring metallic structures. The physical mechanism of linearly polarized wave conversion and asymmetric transmission based on currents distribution and electric fields is also analyzed in detail, respectively.
Adult education and reflexive activation: prioritising recognition, respect, dignity and capital accumulation
Authors: Tuama Séamus Ó
Published: March 2016

The economic crisis that emerged in 2008 put great stress on the so-called European project. The economic downturn put additional pressure on economically and educationally marginalised populations, who continue to experience high levels of unemployment and lower levels of access to societal goods. Activation is seen as one of the main strategies to combat unemployment. The EU also recognises a systemic shift in the nature of work, such that individuals will have several transitions between work and education during their careers. This is a significant societal level challenge that will likely pose greater stress on groups and individuals that are marginalised socially, educationally and economically. To deliver better long-term outcome it is necessary to adopt reflexive activation approaches. Reflexive activation is one in which unemployed people actively co-design the proposed resolutions. It is also embedded in a societal context. It is cognisant of citizenship, autonomy and human rights and leans towards traditional adult education values. The model of reflexive activation explored here is infused with understandings emerging from Schuller’s three types of capital and theories of recognition, respect and dignity developed by Honneth and others.
Bayesian Calibration of Generalized Pools of Predictive Distributions
Authors: Casarin Roberto , Mantoan Giulia , Ravazzolo Francesco
Published: March 2016

Decision-makers often consult different experts to build reliable forecasts on variables of interest. Combining more opinions and calibrating them to maximize the forecast accuracy is consequently a crucial issue in several economic problems. This paper applies a Bayesian beta mixture model to derive a combined and calibrated density function using random calibration functionals and random combination weights. In particular, it compares the application of linear, harmonic and logarithmic pooling in the Bayesian combination approach. The three combination schemes, i.e., linear, harmonic and logarithmic, are studied in simulation examples with multimodal densities and an empirical application with a large database of stock data. All of the experiments show that in a beta mixture calibration framework, the three combination schemes are substantially equivalent, achieving calibration, and no clear preference for one of them appears. The financial application shows that the linear pooling together with beta mixture calibration achieves the best results in terms of calibrated forecast.
Progress on Low-Temperature Pulsed Electron Deposition of CuInGaSe2 Solar Cells
Authors: Mazzer Massimo , Rampino Stefano , Gombia Enos , Bronzoni Matteo , Bissoli Francesco , Pattini Francesco , Calicchio Marco , Kingma Aldo , Annoni Filippo , Calestani Davide , Cavallari Nicholas , Thottapurath Vijayan Vimalkumar , Lomascolo Mauro , Cretì Arianna , Gilioli Edmondo
Published: March 2016

The quest for single-stage deposition of CuInGaSe2 (CIGS) is an open race to replace very effective but capital intensive thin film solar cell manufacturing processes like multiple-stage coevaporation or sputtering combined with high pressure selenisation treatments. In this paper the most recent achievements of Low Temperature Pulsed Electron Deposition (LTPED), a novel single stage deposition process by which CIGS can be deposited at 250 °C, are presented and discussed. We show that selenium loss during the film deposition is not a problem with LTPED as good crystalline films are formed very close to the melting temperature of selenium. The mechanism of formation of good ohmic contacts between CIGS and Mo in the absence of any MoSe2 transition layers is also illustrated, followed by a brief summary of the measured characteristics of test solar cells grown by LTPED. The 17% efficiency target achieved by lab-scale CIGS devices without bandgap modulation, antireflection coating or K-doping is considered to be a crucial milestone along the path to the industrial scale-up of LTPED. The paper ends with a brief review of the open scientific and technological issues related to the scale-up and the possible future applications of the new technology.
Perceived Organizational Support Impacts on the Associations of Work-Family Conflict or Family-Work Conflict with Depressive Symptoms among Chinese Doctors
Authors: Hao Junhui , Wang Jiana , Liu Li , Wu Wei , Wu Hui
Published: March 2016

As a common mental disorder, depressive symptoms had been studied extensively all over the world. However, positive resources for combating depressive symptoms among Chinese doctors were rarely studied. Our study aimed to investigate the relationships between work-family conflict (WFC) and family-work conflict (FWC) with depressive symptoms among Chinese doctors. Meanwhile, the role of perceived organizational support (POS) in this association was explored at an organizational level. The investigation was conducted between March and April 2014. Questionnaires that measured WFC, FWC, depressive symptoms and POS were distributed to 1200 doctors in Shenyang, China. The final study subjects were 931 doctors (effective response rate: 77.6%). In all analyses, male and female doctors were analyzed separately because of possible gender differences. Hierarchical linear regression analyses were used to examine the moderating role of POS. Baron and Kenny’s technique and asymptotic and resampling strategies were used to explore the mediating role of POS on the associations of WFC or FWC with depressive symptoms. WFC and FWC had positive relations with depressive symptoms among doctors. POS played a partial mediating role on the correlation of FWC with depressive symptoms among male doctors, and POS played a partial mediating role on the correlation of WFC with depressive symptoms among female doctors. POS had a positive moderating effect on the relationship between WFC and depressive symptoms among doctors. WFC and FWC could aggravate doctors’ depressive symptoms, and POS, as an organizational resource, could fight against doctors’ depressive symptoms. When POS functioned as a mediator, FWC had a negative effect on POS, which could increase male doctors’ depressive symptoms, and WFC had a negative effect on POS, which could increase female doctors’ depressive symptoms. In the meantime, POS, as a moderator, could enhance the effects of WFC on depressive symptoms.
Semantic Specification of Data Types for a World of Open Data
Authors: Ma Xiaogang , Erickson John , Zednik Stephan , West Patrick , Fox Peter
Published: March 2016

Data interoperability is an ongoing challenge for global open data initiatives. The machine-readable specification of data types for datasets will help address interoperability issues. Data types have typically been at the syntactical level such as integer, float and string, etc. in programming languages. The work presented in this paper is a model design for the semantic specification of data types, such as a topographic map. The work was conducted in the context of the Semantic Web. The model differentiates the semantic data type from the basic data type. The former are instances (e.g., topographic map) of a specific data type class that is defined in the developed model. The latter are classes (e.g., Image) of resource types in existing ontologies. A data resource is an instance of a basic data type and is tagged with one or more specific data types. The implementation of the model is given within an existing production data portal that enables one to register specific data types and use them to annotate data resources. Data users can obtain explicating assumptions or information inherent in a dataset through the specific data types of that dataset. The machine-readable information of specific data types also paves the way for further studies, such as dataset recommendation.
Discovery of Dual ETA/ETB Receptor Antagonists from Traditional Chinese Herbs through in Silico and in Vitro Screening
Authors: Wang Xing , Zhang Yuxin , Liu Qing , Ai Zhixin , Zhang Yanling , Xiang Yuhong , Qiao Yanjiang
Published: March 2016

Endothelin-1 receptors (ETAR and ETBR) act as a pivotal regulator in the biological effects of ET-1 and represent a potential drug target for the treatment of multiple cardiovascular diseases. The purpose of the study is to discover dual ETA/ETB receptor antagonists from traditional Chinese herbs. Ligand- and structure-based virtual screening was performed to screen an in-house database of traditional Chinese herbs, followed by a series of in vitro bioassay evaluation. Aristolochic acid A (AAA) was first confirmed to be a dual ETA/ETB receptor antagonist based intracellular calcium influx assay and impedance-based assay. Dose-response curves showed that AAA can block both ETAR and ETBR with IC50 of 7.91 and 7.40 μM, respectively. Target specificity and cytotoxicity bioassay proved that AAA is a selective dual ETA/ETB receptor antagonist and has no significant cytotoxicity on HEK293/ETAR and HEK293/ETBR cells within 24 h. It is a feasible and effective approach to discover bioactive compounds from traditional Chinese herbs using in silico screening combined with in vitro bioassay evaluation. The structural characteristic of AAA for its activity was especially interpreted, which could provide valuable reference for the further structural modification of AAA.
Phenolic Profile and Biological Activities of the Pepino (Solanum muricatum) Fruit and Its Wild Relative S. caripense
Authors: Herraiz Francisco , Villaño Débora , Plazas Mariola , Vilanova Santiago , Ferreres Federico , Prohens Jaime , Moreno Diego
Published: March 2016

The pepino (Solanum muricatum) is an edible and juicy fruit native to the Andean region which is becoming increasingly important. However, little information is available on its phenolic composition and bioactive properties. Four pepino varieties (37-A, El Camino, Puzol, and Valencia) and one accession (E-7) of its close wild relative S. caripense were characterized by HPLC-DAD-MSn/ESI. Twenty-four hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives were detected (5 to 16 compounds per variety or accession), with differences of more than two-fold for their total content among the materials studied. The major phenolics in the pepino varieties were chlorogenic acids and derivatives, while in S. caripense a caffeoyl-synapoyl-quinic acid was the major compound. The in vitro antioxidant capacity (DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl hydrate), ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity), and TRC (total reducing capacity) tests) was higher in S. caripense. Pepino and S. caripense extracts were not toxic for RAW 264.7 macrophage cells, and the raw extracts inhibited NO production of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated macrophages by 36% (El Camino) to 67% (37-A). No single variety ranked high simultaneously for hydroxycinnamic acids content, antioxidant activity and biological activity. We suggest the screening of large collections of germplasm or the use of complementary crosses between Puzol (high for hydroxycinnamic acids and biological activity) and S. caripense E-7 (high for antioxidant activity) to select and breed pepino varieties with enhanced properties.
Hepatic Stellate Cells and microRNAs in Pathogenesis of Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Kitano Mio , Bloomston P.
Published: March 2016

microRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by either blocking translation or inducing degradation of target mRNA. miRNAs play essential roles in diverse biological and pathological processes, including development of hepatic fibrosis. Hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a central role in development of hepatic fibrosis and there are intricate regulatory effects of miRNAs on their activation, proliferation, collagen production, migration, and apoptosis. There are multiple differentially expressed miRNAs in activated HSCs, and in this review we aim to summarize current data on miRNAs that participate in the development of hepatic fibrosis. Based on this review, miRNAs may serve as biomarkers for diagnosis of liver disease, as well as markers of disease progression. Most importantly, dysregulated miRNAs may potentially be targeted by novel therapies to treat and reverse progression of hepatic fibrosis.
Effect of Chromium on Corrosion Behavior of P110 Steels in CO2-H2S Environment with High Pressure and High Temperature
Authors: Sun Jianbo , Sun Chong , Lin Xueqiang , Cheng Xiangkun , Liu Huifeng
Published: March 2016

The novel Cr-containing low alloy steels have exhibited good corrosion resistance in CO2 environment, mainly owing to the formation of Cr-enriched corrosion film. In order to evaluate whether it is applicable to the CO2 and H2S coexistence conditions, the corrosion behavior of low-chromium steels in CO2-H2S environment with high pressure and high temperature was investigated using weight loss measurement and surface characterization. The results showed that P110 steel suffered localized corrosion and both 3Cr-P110 and 5Cr-P110 steels exhibited general corrosion. However, the corrosion rate of 5Cr-P110 was the highest among them. The corrosion process of the steels was simultaneously governed by CO2 and H2S. The outer scales on the three steels mainly consisted of FeS1−x crystals, whereas the inner scales on Cr-containing steels comprised of amorphous FeS1−x, Cr(OH)3 and FeCO3, in contrast with the amorphous FeS1−x and FeCO3 mixture film of P110 steel. The more chromium the steel contains, the more chromium compounds the corrosion products contain. The addition of chromium in steels increases the uniformity of the Cr-enriched corrosion scales, eliminates the localized corrosion, but cannot decrease the general corrosion rates. The formation of FeS1−x may interfere with Cr-enriched corrosion scales and lowering the corrosion performance of 3Cr-P110 and 5Cr-P110 steels.
Surface Morphology and Tooth Adhesion of a Novel Nanostructured Dental Restorative Composite
Authors: Salerno Marco , Loria Patrizia , Matarazzo Giunio , Tomè Francesco , Diaspro Alberto , Eggenhöffner Roberto
Published: March 2016

Recently, a novel dental restorative composite based on nanostructured micro-fillers of anodic porous alumina has been proposed. While its bulk properties are promising thanks to decreased aging and drug delivery capabilities, its surface properties are still unknown. Here we investigated the surface morphology and the adhesion to tooth dentin of this composite as prepared. For comparison, we used two commercial composites: Tetric EVO Flow (Ivoclar) and Enamel HRi Plus (Micerium). The surface morphology was characterized by atomic force microscopy and the adhesion strength by tensile tests. The experimental composite is rougher than the commercial composites, with root mean square roughness of ~549 nm against 170–511 nm, and presents an adhesion strength of ~15 MPa against 19–21 MPa. These results show at the same time some proximity to the commercial composites, but also the need for optimization of the experimental material formulation.
Beyond the Canon: Within-Plant and Population-Level Heterogeneity in Jasmonate Signaling Engaged by Plant-Insect Interactions
Authors: Li Dapeng , Baldwin Ian , Gaquerel Emmanuel
Published: March 2016

Plants have evolved sophisticated communication and defense systems with which they interact with insects. Jasmonates are synthesized from the oxylipin pathway and act as pivotal cellular orchestrators of many of the metabolic and physiological processes that mediate these interactions. Many of these jasmonate-dependent responses are tissue-specific and translate from modulations of the canonical jasmonate signaling pathway. Here we provide a short overview of within-plant heterogeneities in jasmonate signaling and dependent responses in the context of plant-insect interactions as illuminated by examples from recent work with the ecological model, Nicotiana attenuata. We then discuss means of manipulating jasmonate signaling by creating tissue-specific jasmonate sinks, and the micrografting of different transgenic plants. The metabolic phenotyping of these manipulations provides an integrative understanding of the functional significance of deviations from the canonical model of this hormonal pathway. Additionally, natural variation in jasmonate biosynthesis and signaling both among and within species can explain polymorphisms in resistance to insects in nature. In this respect, insect-guided explorations of population-level variations in jasmonate metabolism have revealed more complexity than previously realized and we discuss how different “omic” techniques can be used to exploit the natural variation that occurs in this important signaling pathway.
Systematic Limitations in Concentration Analysis via Anomalous Small-Angle X-ray Scattering in the Small Structure Limit
Authors: Goerigk Guenter , Lages Sebastian , Huber Klaus
Published: March 2016

Anomalous small angle scattering measurements have been applied to diluted solutions of anionic polyacrylates decorated by specifically-interacting Pb2+ cations, revealing partial collapse of the polyacrylate into pearl-like subdomains with a size on the order of a few nanometers. From the pure-resonant scattering contribution of the Pb2+ cations, and from subsequent analysis of the resonant-invariant, the amount of Pb2+ cations condensed onto the polyanions with respect to the total amount of Pb2+ cations in the solvent was estimated. In order to scrutinize systematic limitations in the determination of the chemical concentrations of resonant scattering counterions in the collapsed phase, Monte Carlo simulations have been performed. The simulations are based on structural confinements at variable size in the range of few nanometers, which represent the collapsed subdomains in the polyanions. These confinements were gradually filled to a high degree of the volume fraction with resonant scattering counterions giving access to a resonant-invariant at a variable degree of filling. The simulations revealed in the limit of small structures a significant underestimation of the true degree of filling of the collapsed subdomains when determining chemical concentrations of Pb2+ cations from the resonant invariant.
Nonlinear Time Series and Neural-Network Models of Exchange Rates between the US Dollar and Major Currencies
Authors: Allen David , McAleer Michael , Peiris Shelton , Singh Abhay
Published: March 2016

This paper features an analysis of major currency exchange rate movements in relation to the US dollar, as constituted in US dollar terms. Euro, British pound, Chinese yuan, and Japanese yen are modelled using a variety of non-linear models, including smooth transition regression models, logistic smooth transition regressions models, threshold autoregressive models, nonlinear autoregressive models, and additive nonlinear autoregressive models, plus Neural Network models. The models are evaluated on the basis of error metrics for twenty day out-of-sample forecasts using the mean average percentage errors (MAPE). The results suggest that there is no dominating class of time series models, and the different currency pairs relationships with the US dollar are captured best by neural net regression models, over the ten year sample of daily exchange rate returns data, from August 2005 to August 2015.
Regional Scale Rain-Forest Height Mapping Using Regression-Kriging of Spaceborne and Airborne LiDAR Data: Application on French Guiana
Authors: Fayad Ibrahim , Baghdadi Nicolas , Bailly Jean-Stéphane , Barbier Nicolas , Gond Valéry , Hérault Bruno , El Hajj Mahmoud , Fabre Frédéric , Perrin José
Published: March 2016

LiDAR data has been successfully used to estimate forest parameters such as canopy heights and biomass. Major limitation of LiDAR systems (airborne and spaceborne) arises from their limited spatial coverage. In this study, we present a technique for canopy height mapping using airborne and spaceborne LiDAR data (from the Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS)). First, canopy heights extracted from both airborne and spaceborne LiDAR were extrapolated from available environmental data. The estimated canopy height maps using Random Forest (RF) regression from airborne or GLAS calibration datasets showed similar precisions (~6 m). To improve the precision of canopy height estimates, regression-kriging was used. Results indicated an improvement in terms of root mean square error (RMSE, from 6.5 to 4.2 m) using the GLAS dataset, and from 5.8 to 1.8 m using the airborne LiDAR dataset. Finally, in order to investigate the impact of the spatial sampling of future LiDAR missions on canopy height estimates precision, six subsets were derived from the initial airborne LiDAR dataset. Results indicated that using the regression-kriging approach a precision of 1.8 m on the canopy height map was achievable with a flight line spacing of 5 km. This precision decreased to 4.8 m for flight line spacing of 50 km.
Corporate Sustainability and Shareholder Wealth—Evidence from British Companies and Lessons from the Crisis
Authors: Gómez-Bezares Fernando , Przychodzen Wojciech , Przychodzen Justyna
Published: March 2016

This study examines the impact of corporate sustainability (CS) on stock market returns for FTSE 350 companies over the period 2006–2012. We find that an investment strategy that bought shares in companies with balanced financial, social, and environmental activities would have earned an annual four-factor alpha for a value-weighted portfolio of 3.54% per year during the sample period and 2.98% above industry benchmarks. In addition, we find that CS is negatively correlated with stock return volatility, and investing in companies with CS not only generates higher returns during peak phases, but also diminishes shareholders’ losses during bear phases. We have also carried out an additional, out-of-the-sample analysis for the years 2013–2015 which confirmed our results.
Cinq années de droit international de l'environnement (1996-2000)
Authors: Kiss Alexandre
Published: March 2016

Au cours des cinq dernières années, le droit international de l'environnement a continué à se développer dans les principaux secteurs : la protection du milieu marin, des eaux continentales, de l'atmosphère et de la diversité biologique. Grâce à la convention de codification portant sur le droit des utilisations des cours d'eau internationaux à des fins autres que la navigation, désormais chacun des secteurs est couronné par un instrument proclamant des principes généraux. La méthode transversale qui vise à fonder la réglementation sur les substances polluantes a connu d'importants développements avec des traités réglementant les mouvements internationaux des produits chimiques et avec l'extension de l'exigence d'un consentement préalable en connaissance de cause. Une nouvelle tendance fonde la réglementation non plus sur la protection des secteurs ou le contrôle des substances dangereuses, mais sur les activités humaines en général. La reconnaissance du rôle des acteurs non étatiques et l'application de règles du droit international de l'environnement par la Cour internationale de justice ont également contribué au développement de cette nouvelle branche du droit international.
Pollen—Tiny and ephemeral but not forgotten: New ideas on their ecology and evolution
Authors: Williams Joseph H. , Mazer Susan J.
Published: March 2016

Ecologists and evolutionary biologists have been interested in the functional biology of pollen since the discovery in the 1800s that pollen grains encompass tiny plants (male gametophytes) that develop and produce sperm cells. After the discovery of double fertilization in flowering plants, botanists in the early 1900s were quick to explore the effects of temperature and maternal nutrients on pollen performance, while evolutionary biologists began studying the nature of haploid selection and pollen competition. A series of technical and theoretic developments have subsequently, but usually separately, expanded our knowledge of the nature of pollen performance and how it evolves. Today, there is a tremendous diversity of interests that touch on pollen performance, ranging from the ecological setting on the stigma, structural and physiological aspects of pollen germination and tube growth, the form of pollen competition and its role in sexual selection in plants, virus transmission, mating system evolution, and inbreeding depression. Given the explosion of technical knowledge of pollen cell biology, computer modeling, and new methods to deal with diversity in a phylogenetic context, we are now more than ever poised for a new era of research that includes complex functional traits that limit or enhance the evolution of these deceptively simple organisms.
Regiodefined synthesis of brominated hydroxyanthraquinones related to proisocrinins
Authors: Roy Joyeeta , Mal Tanushree , Jana Supriti , Mal Dipakranjan
Published: March 2016

Dibromobenzoisofuranone 12, synthesized in six steps, was regiospecifically annulated with 5-substituted cyclohexenones 13/36 in the presence of LiOt-Bu to give brominated anthraquinones 14/38 in good yields. Darzens condensation of 30 was shown to give chain-elongated anthraquinone 32. Alkaline hydrolysis of 38 furnished 39 representing desulfoproisocrinin F.
EXTREME BRIGHTNESS TEMPERATURES AND REFRACTIVE SUBSTRUCTURE IN 3C 273 WITH RADIOASTRON
Authors: Johnson Michael D. , Kovalev Yuri Y. , Gwinn Carl R. , Gurvits Leonid I. , Narayan Ramesh , Macquart Jean-Pierre , Jauncey David L. , Voitsik Peter A. , Anderson James M. , Sokolovsky Kirill V. , Lisakov Mikhail M.
Published: March 2016

Earth–space interferometry with RadioAstron provides the highest direct angular resolution ever achieved in astronomy at any wavelength. RadioAstron detections of the classic quasar 3C 273 on interferometric baselines up to 171,000 km suggest brightness temperatures exceeding expected limits from the “inverse-Compton catastrophe” by two orders of magnitude. We show that at 18 cm, these estimates most likely arise from refractive substructure introduced by scattering in the interstellar medium. We use the scattering properties to estimate an intrinsic brightness temperature of

, which is consistent with expected theoretical limits, but which is ∼15 times lower than estimates that neglect substructure. At 6.2 cm, the substructure influences the measured values appreciably but gives an estimated brightness temperature that is comparable to models that do not account for the substructure. At

, the substructure does not affect the extremely high inferred brightness temperatures, in excess of

. We also demonstrate that for a source having a Gaussian surface brightness profile, a single long-baseline estimate of refractive substructure determines an absolute minimum brightness temperature, if the scattering properties along a given line of sight are known, and that this minimum accurately approximates the apparent brightness temperature over a wide range of total flux densities.
THE UBIQUITOUS PRESENCE OF LOOPLIKE FINE STRUCTURE INSIDE SOLAR ACTIVE REGIONS
Authors: Wang Y.-M.
Published: March 2016

Although most of the solar surface outside active regions (ARs) is pervaded by small-scale fields of mixed polarity, this magnetic “carpet” or “junkyard” is thought to be largely absent inside AR plages and strong network. However, using extreme-ultraviolet images and line-of-sight magnetograms from the Solar Dynamics Observatory, we find that unipolar flux concentrations, both inside and outside ARs, often have small, loop-shaped Fe ix 17.1 and Fe xii 19.3 nm features embedded within them, even though no minority-polarity flux is visible in the corresponding magnetograms. Such looplike structures, characterized by horizontal sizes of ∼3–5 Mm and varying on timescales of minutes or less, are seen inside bright 17.1 nm moss, as well as in fainter moss-like regions associated with weaker network outside ARs. We also note a tendency for bright coronal loops to show compact, looplike features at their footpoints. Based on these observations, we suggest that present-day magnetograms may be substantially underrepresenting the amount of minority-polarity flux inside plages and strong network, and that reconnection between small bipoles and the overlying large-scale field could be a major source of coronal heating both in ARs and in the quiet Sun.
THE FIRST X-RAY IMAGING SPECTROSCOPY OF QUIESCENT SOLAR ACTIVE REGIONS WITH NuSTAR
Authors: Hannah Iain G. , Grefenstette Brian W. , Smith David M. , Glesener Lindsay , Krucker Säm , Hudson Hugh S. , Madsen Kristin K. , Marsh Andrew , White Stephen M. , Caspi Amir , Shih Albert Y. , Harrison Fiona A. , Stern Daniel , Boggs Steven E. , Christensen Finn E. , Craig William W. , Hailey Charles J. , Zhang William W.
Published: March 2016

We present the first observations of quiescent active regions (ARs) using the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR), a focusing hard X-ray telescope capable of studying faint solar emission from high-temperature and non-thermal sources. We analyze the first directly imaged and spectrally resolved X-rays above 2 keV from non-flaring ARs, observed near the west limb on 2014 November 1. The NuSTAR X-ray images match bright features seen in extreme ultraviolet and soft X-rays. The NuSTAR imaging spectroscopy is consistent with isothermal emission of temperatures 3.1–4.4 MK and emission measures 1–8 × 1046 cm−3. We do not observe emission above 5 MK, but our short effective exposure times restrict the spectral dynamic range. With few counts above 6 keV, we can place constraints on the presence of an additional hotter component between 5 and 12 MK of

cm−3 and

cm−3, respectively, at least an order of magnitude stricter than previous limits. With longer duration observations and a weakening solar cycle (resulting in an increased livetime), future NuSTAR observations will have sensitivity to a wider range of temperatures as well as possible non-thermal emission.
Observations on the life-history traits of the North American parasitoidPhasgonophora sulcataWestwood (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae) attackingAgrilus planipennis(Coleoptera: Buprestidae) in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Roscoe Lucas E. , Barry Lyons D. , Smith Sandy M.
Published: March 2016

Under laboratory and field conditions in Ontario, Canada, we explored the natural history ofPhasgonophora sulcataWestwood (Hymenoptera: Chalcididae), an indigenous solitary endoparasitoid ofAgrilus planipennisFairmaire (Coleoptera: Buprestidae) in North America. AdultP. sulcataemergence was ~20.2–23.9 days after host emergence at 21°C, withP. sulcatafemales emerging an ~5.4–5.8 days before males. Females also represented 61.8 and 67.0% of emerging adults in the two years sampled. Mean adult longevities for males and females ofP. sulcatawere 23.8±1.10 and 28.9±1.11 days at 21°C, respectively. Mean potential fecundity ofP. sulcataat emergence was 55.7±2.9 eggs per female. Based on adult emergence, parasitism at two sites varied from 11.7% to 34.4%. Adult parasitoids were first observed in the field in early June, with peak capture occurring in late June. Parasitism rates inA. planipennis-infested ash trees was not affected by tree height below 360 cm, whereas parasitism was not observed at heights>360 cm. Our results suggest that although mass rearing will be challenging, observed parasitism rates in conjunction with temporal and spatial synchrony indicate that indigenousP. sulcatamay be an important source of mortality forA. planipennispopulations.
Use of consumer wireless devices by South Africans with severe communication disability
Authors: Bornman Juan , Bryen Diane Nelson , Moolman Enid , Morris John
Published: March 2016

Background: Advancements in wireless technology (e.g. cell phones and tablets) have opened new communication opportunities and environments for individuals with severe communication disabilities. The advancement of these technologies poses challenges to ensuring that these individuals enjoy equal access to this increasingly essential technology. However, a paucity of research exists. Objectives: To describe the nature and frequency with which South African adults with severe communication disabilities have access to and use wireless devices, as well as the types of activities for which wireless devices are used. Method: Survey research was conducted with 30 individuals who use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) technology using the Survey of User Needs Questionnaire developed in the United States, and localized to the South African context. Results: All participants, despite their limited education, unemployment and low economic status, owned and/or used mainstream wireless devices. Slightly more than half of the participants (53.3%) needed adaptations to their wireless devices. Advantages of using wireless devices were highlighted, including connecting with others (through using text messaging, social networking, making plans with others, sharing photos and videos with friends), for leisure activities (e.g. listening to music, watching videos, playing games), and for safety purposes (e.g. to navigate when lost, using the device when in trouble and needing immediate assistance). Conclusion: These wireless devices offer substantial benefits and opportunities to individuals with disabilities who rely on AAC in terms of independence, social participation, education and safety/security. However, they still do not enjoy equal opportunity to access and use wireless devices relative to the non-disabled population.
A Second-Order Finite Difference Method for Two-Dimensional Fractional Percolation Equations
Authors: Guo Boling , Xu Qiang , Zhu Ailing
Published: March 2016

A finite difference method which is second-order accurate in time and in space is proposed for two-dimensional fractional percolation equations. Using the Fourier transform, a general approximation for the mixed fractional derivatives is analyzed. An approach based on the classical Crank-Nicolson scheme combined with the Richardson extrapolation is used to obtain temporally and spatially second-order accurate numerical estimates. Consistency, stability and convergence of the method are established. Numerical experiments illustrating the effectiveness of the theoretical analysis are provided.
The Hamiltonian Field Theory of the Von Mises Wave Equation: Analytical and Computational Issues
Authors: Cherubini Christian , Filippi Simonetta
Published: March 2016

The Von Mises quasi-linear second order wave equation, which completely describes an irrotational, compressible and barotropic classical perfect fluid, can be derived from a nontrivial least action principle for the velocity scalar potential only, in contrast to existing analog formulations which are expressed in terms of coupled density and velocity fields. In this article, the classicalHamiltonian field theory specifically associated to such an equation is developed in the polytropic case and numerically verified in a simplified situation. The existence of such a mathematical structure suggests new theoretical schemes possibly useful for performing numerical integrations of fluid dynamical equations. Moreover it justifies possible new functional forms for Lagrangian densities and associated Hamiltonian functions in other theoretical classical physics contexts.