bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter-Basin Water Transfer Green Supply Chain Equilibrium and Coordination under Social Welfare Maximization
Authors: Chen Zhisong , Pei Lingling
Published: April 2018

The inter-basin water transfer (IBWT) projects have quasi-public-welfare characteristics, whose operations should take into account the water green level (WGL) and social welfare maximization (SWM). This paper explores the interactions between multiple stakeholders of an IBWT green supply chain through the game-theoretic and coordination research approaches considering the government’s subsidy to the WGL improvement under the SWM. The study and its findings complement the IBWT literature in the area of the green supply chain and social welfare maximization modeling. The analytical modeling results with and without considering the SWM are compared. A numerical analysis for a hypothetical IBWT green supply chain is conducted to draw strategic insights from this study. The research results indicate that (1) If the SWM is not considered, coordination strategy could effectively improve the operations performances of the IBWT supply chain and its members, the consumers’ surplus, and the social welfare when compared with the equilibrium strategy; (2) If the SWM is considered, the IBWT green supply chain and its members have a strong intention to adopt the equilibrium strategy to gain more profits, while the government has a strong intention to encourage the IBWT green supply chain and its members to adopt the coordination strategy to maximize social welfare with a smaller public subsidy; (3) The government’s subsidy policy should be designed and provided to encourage the IBWT green supply chain and its members to improve WGL and pursue the SWM, and a subsidy threshold policy can be designed to maximize social welfare with a lower subsidy budget: only when the IBWT green supply chain and its members adopt the coordination strategy can they get a subsidy from the government.
An Extension of Neutrosophic AHP–SWOT Analysis for Strategic Planning and Decision-Making
Authors: Abdel-Basset Mohamed , Mohamed Mai , Smarandache Florentin
Published: April 2018

Every organization seeks to set strategies for its development and growth and to do this, it must take into account the factors that affect its success or failure. The most widely used technique in strategic planning is SWOT analysis. SWOT examines strengths (S), weaknesses (W), opportunities (O) and threats (T), to select and implement the best strategy to achieve organizational goals. The chosen strategy should harness the advantages of strengths and opportunities, handle weaknesses, and avoid or mitigate threats. SWOT analysis does not quantify factors (i.e., strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) and it fails to rank available alternatives. To overcome this drawback, we integrated it with the analytic hierarchy process (AHP). The AHP is able to determine both quantitative and the qualitative elements by weighting and ranking them via comparison matrices. Due to the vague and inconsistent information that exists in the real world, we applied the proposed model in a neutrosophic environment. A real case study of Starbucks Company was presented to validate our model.
Reflections on Teaching System Dynamics Modeling to Secondary School Students for over 20 Years
Authors: Fisher Diana M.
Published: April 2018

This paper contains the description of a successful system dynamics (SD) modeling approach used for almost a quarter-century in secondary schools, both in algebra classes and in a year-long SD modeling course. Secondary school students have demonstrated an ability to build original models from the news, write technical papers explaining their models, and present a newfound understanding of dynamic feedback behavior to an audience. The educational learning theory and instructional methods used for both the algebra and modeling courses are detailed, with examples. Successful student SD modeling experiences suggest the SD approach can expand the sophistication of topics that secondary school students can understand.
Role of the ERK1/2 Signaling Pathway in the Replication of Junín and Tacaribe Viruses
Authors: Brunetti Jesús E. , Foscaldi Sabrina , Quintana Verónica M. , Scolaro Luis A. , López Nora , Castilla Viviana
Published: April 2018

We have previously shown that the infection of cell cultures with the arenaviruses Junín (JUNV), Tacaribe (TCRV), and Pichindé promotes the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) and that this activation is required for the achievement of a productive infection. Here we examined the contribution of ERK1/2 in early steps of JUNV and TCRV multiplication. JUNV adsorption, internalization, and uncoating were not affected by treatment of cultured cells with U0126, an inhibitor of the ERK1/2 signaling pathway. In contrast, U0126 caused a marked reduction in viral protein expression and RNA synthesis, while JUNV RNA synthesis was significantly augmented in the presence of an activator of the ERK1/2 pathway. Moreover, U0126 impaired the expression of a reporter gene in a TCRV-based replicon system, confirming the ability of the compound to hinder arenavirus macromolecular synthesis. By using a cell-based assay, we determined that the inhibitor did not affect the translation of a synthetic TCRV-like mRNA. No changes in the phosphorylation pattern of the translation factor eIF2α were found in U0126-treated cells. Our results indicate that U0126 impairs viral RNA synthesis, thereby leading to a subsequent reduction in viral protein expression. Thus, we conclude that ERK1/2 signaling activation is required for an efficient arenavirus RNA synthesis.
Accounting for Space—Quantification of Cell-To-Cell Transmission Kinetics Using Virus Dynamics Models
Authors: Kumberger Peter , Durso-Cain Karina , Uprichard Susan , Dahari Harel , Graw Frederik
Published: April 2018

Mathematical models based on ordinary differential equations (ODE) that describe the population dynamics of viruses and infected cells have been an essential tool to characterize and quantify viral infection dynamics. Although an important aspect of viral infection is the dynamics of viral spread, which includes transmission by cell-free virions and direct cell-to-cell transmission, models used so far ignored cell-to-cell transmission completely, or accounted for this process by simple mass-action kinetics between infected and uninfected cells. In this study, we show that the simple mass-action approach falls short when describing viral spread in a spatially-defined environment. Using simulated data, we present a model extension that allows correct quantification of cell-to-cell transmission dynamics within a monolayer of cells. By considering the decreasing proportion of cells that can contribute to cell-to-cell spread with progressing infection, our extension accounts for the transmission dynamics on a single cell level while still remaining applicable to standard population-based experimental measurements. While the ability to infer the proportion of cells infected by either of the transmission modes depends on the viral diffusion rate, the improved estimates obtained using our novel approach emphasize the need to correctly account for spatial aspects when analyzing viral spread.
A Review of Current Research and Knowledge Gaps in the Epidemiology of Shiga Toxin-Producing Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. in Trinidad and Tobago
Authors: Persad Anil K. , LeJeune Jeffrey
Published: April 2018

Salmonella and Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli are two of the main causes of foodborne disease globally, and while they have been implicated as possible causes of foodborne disease within the Caribbean region, the actual incidence is unknown. Trinidad and Tobago, one of the larger countries in the Caribbean, has an estimated annual foodborne disease burden of over 100,000 cases and, similar to other countries, the etiology of most of these cases is unknown. Both pathogens can reside as part of the normal gastrointestinal microflora of many wild and domestic animals, with animals acting as reservoirs, spillover hosts, or dead-end hosts. Carriage in animal species can be asymptomatic or, in the case of Salmonella in particular, there may be clinical manifestation in animals, which resemble the disease seen in humans. In this review, we will focus on the epidemiology of these two foodborne pathogens in Trinidad and Tobago and identify any knowledge gaps in the published literature. The filling of this critical knowledge void is essential for the development and implementation of appropriate mechanisms to reduce the dissemination and transmission of these pathogens, not only in Trinidad and Tobago, but also in the wider Caribbean.
Indicator Values of Emergent Vegetation in Overgrowing Lakes in Relation to Water and Sediment Chemistry
Authors: Lawniczak-Malińska Agnieszka E. , Achtenberg Krzysztof
Published: April 2018

Lake overgrowth is one of the mechanisms affecting the gradual disappearance of lakes in the temperate zone caused by excessive eutrophication of waters. The aim of this study was to assess the possibility of using helophytes as bioindicators of lake overgrowth based on long-term changes based on the cartographic maps studies (1911–2012) and field analyses of plant form growth cover (2012–2014). Additionally, water and sediment chemistry in overgrowing lakes were investigated. The study comprised a total of 33 eutrophic lakes characterized by varying degrees of vegetation development. Based on discriminant analysis, four groups of lakes with diverse degrees of vegetation growth were distinguished. The group comprising the most overgrown water bodies was found to have the greatest percentage of helophytes, with a considerable proportion of submerged and floating-leaved macrophytes. Based on a review of archival materials, lakes which currently exhibit the highest degree of overgrowth were shown to have been affected by intensive littoral growth for over 100 years, which confirms bioindicator properties of helophytes in the assessment of the degree of lake overgrowth. In addition, lakes with the highest rate of overgrowth were characterized by a high content of nitrogen in sediment, with a concurrent high concentration of potassium.
Shared decision-making (SHARE-D) for healthy behaviour change: a feasibility study in general practice
Authors: Cupples Margaret E , Cole Judith A , Hart Nigel D , Heron Neil , McKinley Michelle C , Tully Mark A
Published: April 2018

Background

Effective interventions are needed to support health behaviour change for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention. Decision tools encourage behaviour change but their effectiveness when used in shared decision-making with health professionals (HPs) is unknown.

Aim

To test the feasibility of using a novel, paper-based tool for shared decision-making in initiating behaviour change.

Design & setting

A feasibility study in five general practices in Northern Ireland.

Method

Adults with, or at high risk of, CVD were invited to discuss their diet and physical activity (PA) with an HP. Using a paper-based decision aid in shared decision-making about behaviour change, their capabilities, opportunities, and motivation were considered. Diet and PA were assessed at baseline, 1, and 3 months using the Dietary Instrument for Nutritional Education (DINE) and the Recent Physical Activity Questionnaire (RPAQ); accelerometers measured PA at baseline and 3 months. Semi-structured interviews, analysed thematically, explored participants’ and HPs’ views of the process.

Results

The positive response rate to study invitation was 28% (45/162); 23 were recruited (aged 43–74 years; 50% male; <40% met diet or PA recommendations); and 87% (20/23) completed the study. All interviewees valued the tool’s structure, succinct content, and facilitation of discussion. HPs’ sharing of relevant personal experience encouraged behaviour change; social responsibilities, health conditions, and beliefs restricted change. HPs’ workloads prohibited the tool’s routine use.

Conclusion

Recruitment and completion rates suggest that using a novel, paper-based tool in shared decision-making for behaviour change is feasible. HPs’ workloads constrain its use in practice, but qualitative findings indicate its potential value. Cross-sector collaborative exploration of sustainable models to promote behaviour change is needed.
Surface characterization of nanoparticles using near-field light scattering
Authors: Yoo Eunsoo , Liu Yizhong , Nwasike Chukwuazam A , Freeman Sebastian R , DiPaolo Brian C , Cordovez Bernardo , Doiron Amber L
Published: April 2018

The effect of nanoparticle surface coating characteristics on colloidal stability in solution is a critical parameter in understanding the potential applications of nanoparticles, especially in biomedicine. Here we explored the modification of the surface of poly(ethylene glycol)-coated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (PEG-SPIOs) with the synthetic pseudotannin polygallol via interpolymer complexation (IPC). Changes in particle size and zeta potential were indirectly assessed via differences between PEG-SPIOs and IPC-SPIOs in particle velocity and scattering intensity using near-field light scattering. The local scattering intensity is correlated with the distance between the particle and waveguide, which is affected by the size of the particle (coating thickness) as well as the interactions between the particle and waveguide (related to the zeta potential of the coating). Therefore, we report here the use of near-field light scattering using nanophotonic force microscopy (using a NanoTweezerTM instrument, Halo Labs) to determine the changes that occurred in hydrated particle characteristics, which is accompanied by an analytical model. Furthermore, we found that altering the salt concentration of the suspension solution affected the velocity of particles due to the change of dielectric constant and viscosity of the solution. These findings suggest that this technique is suitable for studying particle surface changes and perhaps can be used to dynamically study reaction kinetics at the particle surface.
Against a unified treatment of obligatory presupposition trigger effects
Authors: Aravind Athulya , Hackl Martin
Published: April 2018

This paper examines bi-sentential sequences where additive presupposition triggers (e.g. too, again) seem to be obligatory in the second sentence. We present linguistic and experimental evidence against treating these obligatory additivity effects as uniformly following from Maximize Presupposition! (Heim 1991). We propose that the environments giving rise to these effects involve a discourse move that corrects for over-restrictive assumptions about the domain in the immediately preceding move. Crucially, the second move must be compatible with the first. General considerations about how the discourse unfolds, in conjunction with a principle that sentences are interpreted exhaustively by default, make it so that two sentences in such sequences are mutually inconsistent in the absence of the additive.
Two kinds of perspective taking in narrative texts
Authors: Hinterwimmer Stefan
Published: April 2018

In this paper, I argue for the existence of two distinct kinds of protagonists’ perspective taking in narrative texts. The first, Free Indirect Discourse, represents conscious thoughts or utterances of protagonists and involves context shifting: All context-sensitive expressions with the exception of pronouns and tenses are interpreted with respect to the fictional context of some salient protagonist (Schlenker 2004; Sharvit 2008; Eckardt 2014, Maier 2015). The second, which I dub viewpoint shifting, does not necessarily represent conscious thoughts or utterances and it does not involve context shifting. Rather, a situation is described as it is perceived by a salient protagonist or in a way that reflects the doxastic state of such a protagonist, not with respect to the Common Ground (CG) of narrator and reader. While FID is only available at the root level, i.e. at the speech act level, viewpoint shifting is available at the level of finite matrix clauses.
Probabilistic language in indicative and counterfactual conditionals
Authors: Lassiter Daniel
Published: April 2018

This paper analyzes indicative and counterfactual conditionals that have in their consequents probability operators: probable, likely, more likely than not, 50% chance and so on. I provide and motivate a unified compositional semantics for both kinds of probabilistic conditionals using a Kratzerian syntax for conditionals and a representation of information based on Causal Bayes Nets. On this account, the only difference between probabilistic indicatives and counterfactuals lies in the distinction between conditioning and intervening. This proposal explains why causal (ir)relevance is crucial for probabilistic counterfactuals, and why it plays no direct role in probabilistic indicatives. I conclude with some complexities related to the treatment of backtracking counterfactuals and subtleties revealed by probabilistic language in the revision procedure used to create counterfactual scenarios. In particular, I argue that certain facts about the interaction between probability operators and counterfactuals motivate the use of Structural Equation Models (Pearl 2000) rather than the more general formalism of Causal Bayes Nets.
Asymmetry in presupposition projection: The case of conjunction
Authors: Mandelkern Matthew , Zehr Jérémy , Romoli Jacopo , Schwarz Florian
Published: April 2018

Is the basic mechanism behind presupposition projection fundamentally asymmetricor symmetric? This is a basic question for the theory of presupposition, and alsobears on broader issues concerning the source of asymmetries observed in naturallanguage: are these simply rooted in superficial asymmetries of language use—language use unfolds in time, which we experience as fundamentally asymmetric—or can they be, at least in part, directly referenced in linguistic knowledge andrepresentations? In this paper we aim to make progress on these questions byexploring presupposition projection across conjunction, which has typically beentaken as a central piece of evidence that presupposition projection is asymmetric.As a number of authors have recently pointed out, however, whether or not thisconclusion is warranted is not clear once we take into account independent issues ofredundancy. Building on previous work by Chemla & Schlenker (2012) and Schwarz(2015), we approach this question experimentally by using an inference task whichcontrols for redundancy and presupposition suspension. We find strong evidence forleft-to-right filtering across conjunctions, but no evidence for right-to-left filtering,suggesting that, at least as a default, presupposition projection across conjunction isindeed asymmetric.
OSSOS. VIII. The Transition between Two Size Distribution Slopes in the Scattering Disk
Authors: Lawler S. M. , Shankman C. , Kavelaars J. J. , Alexandersen M. , Bannister M. T. , Chen 陳英 Ying-Tung 同 , Gladman B. , Fraser W. C. , Gwyn S. , Kaib N. , Petit J.-M. , Volk K.
Published: April 2018

The scattering trans-Neptunian Objects (TNOs) can be measured to smaller sizes than any other distant small-body population. We use the largest sample yet obtained, 68 discoveries, primarily by the Outer Solar System Origins Survey (OSSOS), to constrain the slope of its luminosity distribution, with sensitivity to much fainter absolute H-magnitudes than previous work. Using the analysis technique in Shankman et al., we confirm that a single slope for the H-distribution is not an accurate representation of the scattering TNOs and Centaurs, and that a break in the distribution is required, in support of previous conclusions. A bright-end slope of α

b
 = 0.9 transitioning to a faint-end slope α

f
of 0.4–0.5 with a differential number contrast c from 1 (a knee) to 10 (a divot) provides an acceptable match to our data. We find that break magnitudes H

b
of 7.7 and 8.3, values both previously suggested for dynamically hot Kuiper Belt populations, are equally non-rejectable for a range of α

f
and c in our statistical analysis. Our preferred divot H-distribution transitions to α

f
 = 0.5 with a divot of contrast c = 3 at H

b
 = 8.3, while our preferred knee H-distribution transitions to α

f
 = 0.4 at H

b
 = 7.7. The intrinsic population of scattering TNOs required to match the OSSOS detections is 3 × 106 for H

r
 < 12, and 9 × 104 for H

r
 < 8.66 (D ≳ 100 km), with Centaurs having an intrinsic population two orders of magnitude smaller.
Equilibrium Solutions of the Logarithmic Hamiltonian Leapfrog for the N-body Problem
Authors: Minesaki Yukitaka
Published: April 2018

We prove that a second-order logarithmic Hamiltonian leapfrog for the classical general N-body problem (CGNBP) designed by Mikkola and Tanikawa and some higher-order logarithmic Hamiltonian methods based on symmetric multicompositions of the logarithmic algorithm exactly reproduce the orbits of elliptic relative equilibrium solutions in the original CGNBP. These methods are explicit symplectic methods. Before this proof, only some implicit discrete-time CGNBPs proposed by Minesaki had been analytically shown to trace the orbits of elliptic relative equilibrium solutions. The proof is therefore the first existence proof for explicit symplectic methods. Such logarithmic Hamiltonian methods with a variable time step can also precisely retain periodic orbits in the classical general three-body problem, which generic numerical methods with a constant time step cannot do.
New Constraints on Turbulence and Embedded Planet Mass in the HD 163296 Disk from Planet–Disk Hydrodynamic Simulations
Authors: Liu 刘尚 Shang-Fei 飞 , Jin 晋 Sheng 升 , Li 李 Shengtai 胜台 , Isella Andrea , Li 李 Hui 晖
Published: April 2018

Recent Atacama Large Millimeter and Submillimeter Array (ALMA) observations of the protoplanetary disk around the Herbig Ae star HD 163296 revealed three depleted dust gaps at 60, 100, and 160 au in the 1.3 mm continuum as well as CO depletion in the middle and outer dust gaps. However, no CO depletion was found in the inner dust gap. To examine the planet–disk interaction model, we present results of 2D two fluid (gas + dust) hydrodynamic simulations coupled with 3D radiative transfer simulations. To fit the high gas-to-dust ratio of the first gap, we find that the Shakura–Sunyaev viscosity parameter α must be very small (

) in the inner disk. On the other hand, a relatively large α (

) is required to reproduce the dust surface density in the outer disk. We interpret the variation of α as an indicator of the transition from an inner dead zone to the outer magnetorotational instability (MRI) active zone. Within ∼100 au, the HD 163296 disk’s ionization level is low, and non-ideal magnetohydrodynamic effects could suppress the MRI, so the disk can be largely laminar. The disk’s ionization level gradually increases toward larger radii, and the outermost disk (

au) becomes turbulent due to MRI. Under this condition, we find that the observed dust continuum and CO gas line emissions can be reasonably fit by three half-Jovian-mass planets (0.46, 0.46, and

) at 59, 105, and 160 au, respectively.
Bucculatrix brunnella sp. n. (Lepidoptera, Bucculatricidae) from Sicily and Sardinia
Authors: Tokár Zdenko , Laštůvka Aleš
Published: April 2018

Bucculatrixbrunnellasp. n. is described from Sicily and Sardinia. The male of the new species is characterized by the almost monochrome ochreous brown forewing. It may resemble the monochrome form of B.cristatella (Zeller, 1839), but the colour of the forewing of the latter species is pale ochreous grey. The female of the new species is slightly smaller, paler and with more conspicuous pattern on the forewing than those of the male. B.brunnellasp. n. differs markedly in the male genitalia from other known Bucculatrix species. The immature stages are unknown. The male and female adults, and genitalia of both sexes, are figured and a distribution map is provided.
Two new species of the genus Xanthochlorus from China (Diptera, Dolichopodidae, Xanthochlorinae)
Authors: Qilemoge  , Chang Wencheng , Yang Ding
Published: April 2018

The subfamily Xanthochlorinae comprises a single genus Xanthochlorus, and is rare in collections. Previously, there were four known species in the genus Xanthochlorus from China. In this paper, the species of the Xanthochlorus from China are reviewed. The following two species from Gansu Province of China are described as new to science: Xanthochlorusgansuensis sp. n. and Xanthochlorustewoensis sp. n. A key to species of the Xanthochlorus from China is provided.
A new species of Neopanorpa with an extremely long notal organ from Sichuan, China (Mecoptera, Panorpidae)
Authors: Wang Meng , Hua Bao-Zhen
Published: April 2018

Neopanorpasetigerasp. n.is described and illustrated from Sichuan, China. It is characterized by an extremely long notal process, a well-developed postnotal organ, and a pair of setiferous gonostyli. This is the second species ofNeopanorpavan der Weele with an extremely long notal organ in Sichuan. A key to Sichuan species ofNeopanorpais provided.
Les avatars du mot diaspora : du lien créé par le malheur commun à une catégorie de l’action publique
Authors: Barou Jacques
Published: April 2018

Le terme diaspora est d’un usage de plus en plus répandu pour désigner des populations immigrées ou issues d’immigrations plus ou moins anciennes. Cet usage « commun » d’un concept forgé par plusieurs décennies de recherche académique dans le champ des sciences humaines est révélateur des évolutions du monde contemporain.
La difficile émergence du marché de la prestation de services sociologiques
Authors: Akermann Grégori
Published: April 2018

Résumé Alors que de nombreux sociologues vendent des prestations de services à des commanditaires, ce marché reste peu analysé. Dans cet article nous décrivons le marché de la commande publique de sociologie. Situées à trois niveaux d'action, les demandes sont rarement spécifiquement adressées aux sociologues. Au-delà de rares demandes en sociologie urbaine ou en sociologie des organisations, elles concernent généralement des méthodes en sciences humaines et sociales ou des interventions de professionnels avec qui préexistent des liens. Nos analyses nous amènent à conclure qu'aujourd'hui encore, le marché de la sociologie n'existe pas en tant que tel, ou bien de manière très limitée.
La recherche sociologique contractuelle comme expérience du rapport des institutions à la réflexivité
Authors: Demailly Lise
Published: April 2018

Résumé Les processus de recherche contractuelle permettent d'éclairer les rapports entre la sociologie et ses publics. L'article s'appuie sur plusieurs situations empiriques de recherche contractuelle auxquelles l'auteur a participé comme responsable ou co-responsable. Il décrit les processus de commande et de négociation des contrats, le degré de contrôle de la production sociologique, les caractéristiques des travaux produits, et les modes de réception et d'usage des résultats. L'auteur montre que, pour diverses raisons, les institutions commanditaires ne manifestent pas toutes les mêmes visées envers la sociologie, les mêmes pratiques de respect ou de méfiance envers le sociologue, ni la même prise en compte pratique ou politique de son travail. Mais, au-delà de la diversité des recherches contractuelles, on peut constater que le rapport institutions/sociologie change depuis une dizaine d'années et devient, de la part des institutions, nettement plus instrumentalisé.
L'intervention sociologique en association
Authors: Bucolo Elisabetta , Haeringer Joseph
Published: April 2018

Résumé Dans le contexte gestionnaire des années 1990, de nombreuses associations ont été à l'origine de demandes d'intervention sociologique. Elles sont tiraillées entre une internalisation de la « raison gestionnaire et managériale » et une résistance à l'égard du « managérialisme ». Les apports des sociologues sont perçus comme une ressource critique susceptible d'explorer des modèles alternatifs à ceux qui leurs sont prescrits par les régulations de contrôle et de normalisation émanant des autorités de tutelle, déterminantes dans l'attribution et l'affectation des fonds. Dans ce texte, nous rendrons compte d'une démarche de recherche associant sociologues et dirigeants associatifs, qui a posé les bases d'une méthodologie d'intervention en association. Puis nous explorerons deux types de demandes d'intervention : la demande d'expertise, inscrite dans un cadre réglementaire imposé aux associations, et la demande d'accompagnement qui requiert de définir ce cadre avec les parties prenantes en présence. Nous faisons l'hypothèse que ces démarches impliquent un repositionnement de l'expertise sollicitée ainsi que de la demande initiale formulée par les dirigeants.
Irritability and Parenting Styles in Adolescents With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: A Controlled Study
Authors: Uçar Halit Necmi , Vural Ayşe Pınar
Published: April 2018

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects functioning of the family, decreasing interactions and loyalty and increasing conflict between adolescents with ADHD and their families. Irritable mood and difficulties with emotional dysregulation are common in children with ADHD. The objective of the current study was to assess levels of irritability in adolescents with ADHD using self- and parent-report scales, and investigate the relationship between irritability levels and parental attitudes. A total of 47 adolescents with ADHD and 39 adolescents with typical development participated in the current study. Findings demonstrated that higher levels of parent-reported irritability were associated with decreased egalitarian attitudes in the ADHD group. Although other parental attitudes were not associated with self- and parent-reported irritability, evaluation of the relationship between parental attitudes and irritability in adolescents with ADHD, which can guide diagnosis and treatment of ADHD, is of critical importance. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 56
(9), 33–43.]
Biosorption of Uranium Heavy Metals
Authors: Rathoure Ashok K. , Mishra Sudhanshu , Tripathi Sandeep
Published: April 2018

Uranium is a seriously threatening heavy metal because of its high toxicity and radioactivity. Uranium contaminates surface and groundwater. Metal removed from aqueous solutions often leads to effective metal concentration. Apart from the slow natural process of metal mineralization, removal of heavy metals is attained when the metal becomes concentrated at a point that it is either returned to the process or resold. Physical adsorption takes place due to van-der Waals' forces. Conventional methods used for uranium removal are expensive and produce huge amount of sludge (consists of toxic substances) which blockade the membrane. In this chapter, uranium removal by biosorption method is discussed. Uranium removal is attained by the use of either living microorganisms (bacteria, algae, and fungi) or their dead biomasses.
Demethylation of Arsenic and Nickel From Tannery Effluent
Authors: Khade Shankar Mukundrao , Srivastava Suresh Kumar
Published: April 2018

The tanning Industry is considered to be a major source of pollution and tannery wastewater in particular is a potential environmental concern. Wastewaters produced by tanneries contain high concentration of inorganic and organic pollutant. The pollutants of concern within the tanning industry include Azodyes, Cadmium compounds, Cobalt, Copper, Antimony, Barium, Lead, Selenium, Mercury, Zinc, Arsenic, Polychlorinated Biphyenls (PCB), Nickel, Formaldehyde resins, and Pesticides residues. Because tannery wastewater contains a complexity of pollutants including chromium and chlorinated phenols as indicated earlier, it is vital to dissect the toxic nature of such wastewater both to understand its environmental impacts and identify potential remediation strategies. Furthermore, there are strict regulations imposed for the environmental control of pollutants such as heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants. In this chapter, the authors discuss the demethylation process of Arsenic and Nickel from Tannery Effluent.
Role of Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) for Bioremediation of Heavy Metals
Authors: Chaudhary Khushboo , Khan Suphiya
Published: April 2018

The heavy metal pollution problem is all over the world. Plant growth promoting bacteria (PGPB) has transformed heavy metals present in the soil, which removes and minimizes their toxic effects. This chapter highlights the role of PGPB for remediation of heavy metals, their mechanism of action, and their applications approach of hyperaccumulation. Further, it also highlights the role of uptake and detoxification of metals by cellular mechanisms which facilitate the bioremediation of heavy metals from contaminated areas. Bacteria may also enhance nutrient uptake, increasing plant growth and defenses while diminish heavy metals intake and their toxic effects. Therefore, this chapter focuses on the mechanisms by which microorganisms can mobilize or immobilize metals in soils and the bioremediation strategies are addressed for the improvement of phytoextraction as an innovative process for enhancement of heavy metals removal from soil.
Technological Interventions in Management of Hg Contaminated Water
Authors: Abrol Vidushi , Mallubhotla Sharada , Jaglan Sundeep
Published: April 2018

Rising cases of environmental mercury hazards has led to a need for cost-effective mercury treatment techniques. Extensive use of mercury from ancient times has resulted in water contamination that may require remediation. Mercury contamination is tedious to treat and may pose a risk to human health and the environment. To deal with this threat of mercury contamination, industrial wastes and wastewaters containing mercury requires treatment for its removal and immobilization. This chapter provides a synopsis of the availability, performance, and technologies for management of mercury in water. It covers the innovative methods to treat the mercury contamination like biosorption. In this chapter, the technological aspects available for the mercury treatment technologies are reviewed. It describes the theory, design, and operation of the technologies; provides information on commercial availability and use; and includes data on performance, where available.
Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals in Vicinity of Industrially Polluted Sites Through Ferns
Authors: Kumari Alka
Published: April 2018

This chapter deals with screening of native Pteridophytes (ferns) in the vicinity of fly ash (FA) contaminated areas of National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) in Kanti and Kahalgaon, Bihar, India. These ferns were used for phytoremediation of heavy metals in the aforementioned areas. The metal tolerance ability and diversity of the native ferns were examined on several diversity indices (population density, concentration of dominance, heterogeneity, equitability) and the results were compared with reference site (nearby forests). The present data revealed that 11 species of ferns (10 terrestrial and 1 climbing fern) had rich frequency distribution and better performance on FA sites. The results also revealed that all ferns had accumulated significant metal content in their tissues. However, metal content was varied in different fern species. Effect of FA on photosynthetic pigments were also analyzed and compared with the reference site. The results of the above study suggest the suitability and usefulness of these ferns for reclamation of FA contaminated wastelands.
Interaction of Heavy Metal Ions With Nanomaterials
Authors: Khan Suphiya , Kumari Sonu
Published: April 2018

Increasing water pollution due to heavy metals is a major global concern, and favorable remediation techniques are required. Heavy metal contamination affects both flora and fauna as it enters the food web. The development of nanotechnology and novel nanomaterials production has attracted researchers worldwide. Both carbon- and metal-based nanomaterials proved great adsorbents for heavy metal remediation because of their unique properties such as thermal and chemical stability and high surface. Novel green route for nanomaterials synthesis make the nanomaterials production an environmentally friendly, low cost, and user-friendly approach. This chapter reviews the heavy metal pollution causes and utilization of different nanomaterials for the remediation process.
Nanoparticles for Bioremediation of Heavy Metal Polluted Water
Authors: Dutta Rajiv , Sahai Pragati
Published: April 2018

The process of bioremediation can be intrinsic or natural attenuation, where the process of remediation happens on its own, or it can be extrinsic or bio-stimulated when it is incited with help of some growth productive conditions like addition of fertilizers or nanoparticles, the smallest active particles on the earth. Nanoparticles are charged entities with low activation energy and exhibiting quantum effects making the chemical reaction between the nanoparticle and surrounding feasible in lesser time, and they also exhibit surface plasmon resonance that helps in identification of toxic material in surrounding. Apart from these properties, their different shapes and sizes help in designing the environmental cleanup process as per the suitable conditions and requirements. Polluted water treatment is being done with the help of nanoparticles due to their property of being highly profitable as adsorbents and for filtration purposes.
Nanobiotechnology for Bioremediation
Authors: Jagdale Swati , Hable Asawaree , Chabukswar Aniruddha
Published: April 2018

Nanobiotechnology is the combination of nanotechnology and biotechnology. Bioremediation is defined as a waste management technique that involves use of organisms to remove or neutralize pollutants from a contaminated site. This involves no use of chemicals and it allows waste to get recycled; this process has evolved as one of the most important methods. Remediation of contaminants using existing conventional technology is neither effective nor efficient in environmental cleanup. Techniques developed from nanobiotechnology can detect, control, and remediate pollutants by acting as sensors. Use of nanomaterials has less toxic effects and this will not only reduce consumption time but also reduce cost. Nanoparticles developed by using microbial systems provide green nanotechnology and help in keeping the environment clean. Green nanotechnology needs to develop to make cleaner environment with great ecological balance on earth. This chapter deals with traditional methods of bioremediation, methods in nanobiotechnology, and future aspects.
City to City Partnerships and Implications for Local Government Operations
Authors: Bandauko Elmond , Bobo Tinashe
Published: April 2018

International city cooperation of sister city partnerships has become one of the important strategies to improve urban competitiveness, promote city development and urban development, as well as to create partnerships that can promote city agendas. Cities across the world have implemented or are implementing the concept of twinning, in which one urban local authority can partner with other local authorities in the world. Several studies have been done on international city cooperation especially in the European context. However, there is a paucity of knowledge on city twinning in Zimbabwe. This chapter seeks to examine the implications on local government operations through the twinning concept, using Harare and Munich as units of analysis. Overall, Harare has since twinned with Munich, in which the two cities cooperate in the areas of human capital development, capacity building, and information technology for cities. This development has seen Harare registering some improvements in terms of local government operations.
Rural Urban Youth Delinquency in Zimbabwe, the Nexus
Authors: Dodo Obediah , Mwale Christine
Published: April 2018

Zimbabwe's urban areas have been experiencing an alarming increase in violence and crime compared to the rural areas. This study explored the motivation for youth violence and crime in both rural and urban areas. Qualitatively, it compares youth-inflicted violence in the rural, Chikomba and Guruve against the urban areas, Seke urban, and Borrowdale, between 2000 and 2016. Eighty participants were drawn from a cross-section of the population. Theoretical underpinnings of the argument are derived from implicit theories held by the generality of Zimbabweans with regards to rural and urban youth. Data were collected from literature spanning from 1980-2016. Latent content analysis was employed to analyze data. The study established that while there is crime and violence in the two settings, the gravity and nature varies according to influences like poverty levels, level and rate of development, literacy levels, and motivating incentives from the third parties among others.
The Political Economy of Land and Urban Development
Authors: Bvochora Kudzanai , Kusena Bernard
Published: April 2018

Many urban areas which have sprouted around the world owe their economic and social origins in growth points and market centers. Situated about 15 kilometers south-east of Harare, Epworth became one of Zimbabwe's largest peri-urban settlements due to the combined effect of demographic, political, and socioeconomic factors, among others. This chapter interrogates the various forces behind this unprecedented population growth. It demonstrates the relationship between Epworth's ballooning population and the various pull and push factors of urbanization. For example, immigration contributed immensely to this rise, although natural increase in births also contributed fairly significantly. This chapter examines the impact of population dynamics and other variables that were linked to the rapid expansion of Epworth on the overall development processes, arguing that economic and social infrastructure became conditioned by such dynamics.
The Positive Deviance Approach as a Behavior Change Strategy for Promoting Sustainable Sanitation Practices Including Eliminating Open Defecation
Authors: Abalo Jannette
Published: April 2018

This chapter proposes the introduction of the positive deviance approach as a behavior change methodology for achieving sustainable sanitation in slums within Kampala city, Uganda. PD is an innovative public health strategy which promotes learning from people whose uncommon but successful behaviors allow them find better solutions to problem than peers with whom they face similar challenges. Adopting the application of PD by policy makers will allow for the examination of various sanitation achievements in communities with best practice and reciprocating in other areas.
Smart Healthcare Administration Over Cloud
Authors: Govinda K.  , Ramasubbareddy S.
Published: April 2018

Cloud computing is an emerging technology that is expected to support internet-scale critical applications, which could be essential to the healthcare sector. Its scalability, resilience, adaptability, connectivity, cost reduction, and high-performance features have high potential to lift the efficiency and quality of healthcare. With the widespread application of healthcare information and communication technology, constructing a stable and sustainable data sharing circumstance has attracted rapidly growing attention in both academic research area and the healthcare industry. Cloud computing is one of long dreamed visions of healthcare cloud (HC), which matches the need of healthcare workers, information sharing directly to various health providers over the internet, regardless of their location and the amount of data. This chapter proposes a cloud model for health information sharing and integration in HC and looks into the arising challenges in healthcare.
Swift Heavy Ion Synthesis and Modifications of Nanophosphors for Dosimetric Application
Authors: Som Sudipta , Dutta Somrita , Kumar Vijay , Swart Hendrik C.
Published: April 2018

Recently, there has been a huge demand for the experimental and theoretical efforts for the dosimetry of the ionizing radiation due to its diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. Different ionizing radiations include low ionizing radiation such as x-rays, γ-rays and densely ionizing radiation swift heavy ions (SHIs). When SHIs pass through a material, intense electronic excitations occur along the ion trajectory due to the inhomogeneous distribution of the energy inside the material. This internal disorder creates a large number of defects in the materials. The characterization of such defects provides material's technological importance for different practical applications in radiation dosimetry. Different luminescence behavior including thermoluminescence (TL) is the well-established and very sensitive technique for the characterization of the structural disorder and defects in solids. Therefore, this chapter deals with the basic concept of swift heavy ion and ion-induced modification for dosimetric applications.
Phosphors for Various Dosimetry Applications Derived by Different Synthesis Routes
Authors: Singh Jyoti , Bhadane Mahesh S. , Dubey Vikas , Dhole Sanjay Daga , Manam Jairam , Dahiwale Shailendra Satish
Published: April 2018

The chapter provides useful information about synthesis and characterization of dysprosium doped oxide and fluoride-based phosphors such as SrGd2O4, CaSO4, and CaF2. Various techniques (e.g., acid-recrystallization, chemical co-precipitation, and homogenous precipitation cum auto-combustion methods) were adopted to synthesize these phosphors for large-scale production. All the prepared phosphors were characterized by x-ray diffraction analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy techniques. The thermoluminescence (TL) studies were performed after different irradiation sources such as gamma rays, thermal neutrons, and low energy ions (H, Ar, and N), respectively. Linear dose responses were observed in a wide range of doses for all the samples. Various trapping parameters, namely order of kinetics, activation energy, and frequency factors, were calculated by using computerized glow curve deconvolution (CGCD) method.
Fabrication of Porous NiTi Alloy Using Organic Binders
Authors: Sharma Neeraj , Kumar Kamal
Published: April 2018

Nitinol has growing applications in aerospace industries, MEMS, and bio-medical industries due to its unique properties of pseudo-elasticity, bio-compatibility, and shape-memory effect. Behaviour of NiTi alloy can be changed by altering the composition, modifying the porosity, and applying external thermal and mechanical treatment. In this chapter, porous NiTi alloy with powder metallurgy is fabricated by varying the composition of polypropylene as an organic binder from 0% to 15%, and Young's modulus and porosity of porous alloy has been evaluated. The effect of process parameters—compaction pressure, sintering temperature, and sintering time—are evaluated using Taguchi L16 orthogonal array. These particles initially act as a binder but with the increase of temperature, the organic particles evaporate and create pores. With the increase of organic particle percentage, the porosity increases while Young's modulus decreases. SEM was used to characterize the fabricated porous NiTi alloy.
Textile-Reinforced Composites for the Automotive Industry
Authors: Sezgin Hande , Berkalp Omer Berk
Published: April 2018

In the last decades, automotive industry has especially focused on developing and applying new materials and technologies for enhancing the comfort and security levels in the vehicles, but on the other hand for reducing the weight of the means of transportation in order to decrease the energy consumption. In this concept, textile-reinforced composite structures come in possession of one of the most favored materials in the automotive industry by satisfying these demands. In this chapter, usage of textile-reinforced composites in the automotive industry has been elucidated under three main sections: textile reinforced composites for 1) automobiles, 2) mass transportation vehicles, and 3) trucks. The aim of this chapter is to discuss the subject in detail by giving technical information about particular vehicle parts and composite structures utilized in the automotive industry and academia.