bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase equilibria modelling of blueschist and eclogite from the Sanbagawa metamorphic belt of southwest Japan reveals along‐strike consistency in tectonothermal architecture
Authors: Weller O. M. , Wallis S. R. , Aoya M. , Nagaya T.
Published: June 2015

The Sanbagawa metamorphic belt of southwest Japan is one of the type localities of subduction‐related high‐P metamorphism. However, variable pressure–temperature (P–T) paths and metabasic assemblages have been reported for eclogite units in the region, leading to uncertainty about the subduction zone paleo‐thermal structure and associated tectonometamorphic conditions. To analyse this variation, phase equilibria modelling was applied to the three main high‐P metabasic rock types documented in the region – glaucophane eclogite, barroisite eclogite and garnet blueschist – with modelling performed over a range of P, T, bulk rock H2O and bulk rock ferric iron conditions using thermocalc. All samples are calculated to share a common steep prograde P–T path to similar peak conditions of ∼16–20 kbar and 560–610 °C. The results establish that regional assemblage variation is systematic, with the alternation in peak amphibole phase due to peak conditions overlapping the glaucophane–barroisite solvus, and bulk composition effects stabilizing blueschist v. eclogite facies assemblages at similar P–T conditions. Furthermore, the results reveal that a steep prograde P–T path is common to all eclogite units in the Sanbagawa belt, indicating that metamorphic conditions were consistent along strike. All localities are compatible with predictions made by a ridge approach model, which attributes eclogite facies metamorphism and exhumation of the Sanbagawa belt to the approach of a spreading ridge.
Integrative Review of Co‐Occurring Symptoms Across Etiologies of Chronic Liver Disease and Implications for Symptom Management Research and Practice
Authors: An Kyungeh , Jallo Nancy , Menzies Victoria , Kinser Patricia , Robins Jo Lynne W. , Starkweather Angela
Published: June 2015

Purpose

Chronic liver disease affects over 30 million people worldwide, and despite advances in medical management that have increased survival, a majority of these individuals report multiple symptoms that severely impair function and quality of life. The purpose of this integrative review was to examine and summarize the current literature focused on self‐reported symptoms in individuals with chronic liver disease in order to inform the development and delivery of symptom management strategies in clinical practice.

Design and Methods

Combinations of search terms related to the symptom experience were used to search three electronic databases. Inclusion criteria were empirical studies that measured self‐reported symptoms in populations with chronic liver disease published in English between 2003 and 2014. The literature search initially yielded 112 results; 26 quantitative studies met the inclusion criteria.

Findings and Conclusions

The symptom of fatigue was commonly reported across chronic liver disease populations and was often found to co‐occur with other distressing symptoms, including depression, sleep disturbance, pain, cognitive impairment, and dizziness associated with autonomic dysfunction. Due to the high prevalence and persistence of these “core” symptoms, the use of core symptom measures integrated longitudinally across populations would inform the development and delivery of symptom management interventions as well as enhance the ability of nurses to incorporate population‐level symptom management programs.

Clinical Relevance

Nurses play an important role in symptom assessment and may use the findings from the integrative review to incorporate core symptom measures across chronic liver disease populations and advance the development and delivery of symptom management interventions.
Change at the Checkout: Tracing the Impact of a Process Innovation
Authors: Basker Emek
Published: June 2015

Barcode scanners, introduced in the early 1970's, were a foundational process innovation in the grocery supply chain. By 1984 scanners had been installed in 10% of food stores in the U.S. Fixed‐effect analysis of city‐level price data shows that scanners reduced prices of groceries by at least 1.4% in their first decade. The results are consistent with prior estimates of labor saving by scanners. Early adopters and adopters in states that imposed fewer restrictions on complementary process innovations contributed disproportionately to the price decreases.
BRAF V600E and loss of heterozygosity assessment in benign oralneural tumours
Authors: Rodrigues Leonardo Nogueira , Correa GefterThiago Batista , Diniz Marina Gonçalves , Galvão Clarice Ferreira , Gomes Carolina Cavaliéri , Gomez Ricardo Santiago
Published: June 2015

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate loss of heterozygosity (LOH) and to assess BRAF V600E mutation in oral neurofibromas, palisaded encapsulated neuromas (PEN) and schwannomas.

Methods

Six oral neurofibroma, 5 PEN and 3 schwannoma samples were included in the study. LOH was assessed using polymorphic microsatellite markers at chromosome regions 3p (marker D3S1029), 9p (markers D9S171, D9S162, D9S157), 11q (marker D11S1369), and 17p (markers AFM238WF2 and P53), and results were evaluated after capillary electrophoresis. BRAF mutation encoding V600E was assessed by real‐time PCR with a specific TaqMan probe to detect the T>A transversion at position c.1799.

Results

LOH occurred at chromosomes 3p (marker D3S1029), 11q (D11S1369) and 17p (AFM238WF2 and P53). LOH occurred in 2/6 neurofibromas, 2/5 PEN and in none of the 3 schwannoma samples. The 6 neurofibromas, 2/2 PEN evaluated and the 3 schwannomas were BRAF wild type.

Conclusion

According to our results, oral benign peripheral nerve sheath tumours have a low LOH rate, but P53 locus alteration is occasionally found. Additionally, BRAF V600E mutation is either not relevant to the molecular pathogenesis of this group of lesions of the oral cavity, or may occur at very low rates.
Effect of periodontal surgery on oral health‐related quality of life in patients who have completed initial periodontal therapy
Authors: Makino‐Oi A. , Ishii Y. , Hoshino T. , Okubo N. , Sugito H. , Hosaka Y. , Fukaya C. , Nakagawa T. , Saito A.
Published: June 2015

Background and Objective

Patient‐centered assessments are particularly important in periodontal treatment in which their concerns may differ from the traditional clinical endpoints. However, information is limited regarding the influence of periodontal surgery on patients' quality of life (QoL). The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of surgical periodontal therapy on the oral health‐related QoL of patients who have received initial periodontal therapy.

Methods

A three‐center prospective clinical study design was used, with the study participants comprising patients with moderate to severe periodontitis. Following initial periodontal therapy, the participants received either surgical or non‐surgical periodontal treatment. The Oral Health‐related Quality of Life Model for Dental Hygiene (OHRQL instrument), was used to assess participants' oral health‐related QoL at each periodontal assessment interval: baseline (phase I), after initial therapy (phase II) and after surgery or during supportive periodontal therapy (phase III).

Results

Seventy‐six patients (26 non‐surgery, 50 surgery) completed the third phase of OHRQL assessment and were subjected to data analysis. From phase II to III, an improvement was achieved in all clinical parameters (p < 0.05–0.001) in the surgery group, whereas no such improvement was observed in the non‐surgery group. In both groups, a significant difference in total OHRQL score was noted between phases I and III (p < 0.001 for surgery and p < 0.05 for non‐surgery). The OHRQL domain scores for pain and eating/chewing function showed a significant improvement between these time points. However, no further significant improvement in OHRQL scores was achieved from phase II to III.

Conclusion

A significant improvement in oral health‐related QoL was noted between phases I and III in the surgery and non‐surgery groups. Such improvement was less pronounced in the non‐surgery vs. the surgery group. From phase II to III, neither surgery nor non‐surgical treatment yielded significant improvement in oral health‐related QoL.
Effectiveness of triple therapy with simeprevir for chronic hepatitis C genotype 1b patients with prior telaprevir failure
Authors: Ogawa E. , Furusyo N. , Dohmen K. , Kajiwara E. , Kawano A. , Nomura H. , Takahashi K. , Satoh T. , Azuma K. , Nakamuta M. , Koyanagi T. , Kotoh K. , Shimoda S. , Hayashi J. ,   The Kyushu University Liver Disease Study (KULDS) Group
Published: June 2015

Favourable efficacy and safety profiles for simeprevir in combination with pegylated interferon alpha (PEG‐IFNα) and ribavirin (triple therapy) have been shown in clinical trials. This study was carried out to evaluate the effectiveness of simeprevir‐based triple therapy for patients with prior telaprevir treatment failure. This multicentre, observational cohort consisted of 345 consecutive Japanese patients infected with HCV genotype 1b, including 20 who had experienced telaprevir‐based triple therapy. Amino acid substitutions in the NS3/4A region were identified by direct sequencing at the time of relapse or breakthrough in treatment with telaprevir and at the initiation of treatment with simeprevir. Patients were stratified according to prior response to PEG‐IFNα and ribavirin. Of the 20 patients with telaprevir treatment failure, 10 (50.0%) achieved sustained virological response at week 12 after the end of treatment (SVR12). For patients treatment naïve [3/4 (75.0%)] or with prior relapse [1/1 (100%)] or partial response [5/6 (83.3%)] to PEG‐IFNα and ribavirin, almost all achieved SVR12, mainly because of the improvement of treatment adherence, especially to direct‐acting antiviral agent and ribavirin. However, of the nine patients with prior null response to PEG‐IFNα and ribavirin, only one (11.1%) achieved SVR12, despite all having received an adequate treatment dosage, and five (55.6%) achieved rapid virological response. The treatment outcome of simeprevir‐based triple therapy for HCV genotype 1b patients with prior telaprevir failure depended on the prior response to PEG‐IFNα and ribavirin. For patients with prior null response to PEG‐IFNα and ribavirin, retreatment with simeprevir‐based triple therapy is not a useful option.
What the Humean Should Say About Entanglement
Authors: Bhogal Harjit , Perry Zee
Published: June 2015

Tim Maudlin has influentially argued that Humeanism about laws of nature stands in conflict with quantum mechanics. Specifically Humeanism implies the principle Separability: the complete physical state of a world is determined by the intrinsic physical state of each space‐time point. Maudlin argues Separability is violated by the entangled states posited by QM. We argue that Maudlin only establishes that a stronger principle, which we call Strong Separability, is in tension with QM. Separability is not in tension with QM. Moreover, while the Humean requires Separability to capture the core tenets of her view, there's no Humean‐specific motivation for accepting Strong Separability. We go on to give a Humean account of entangled states which satisfies Separability. The core idea is that certain quantum states depend upon the Humean mosaic in much the same way as the laws do. In fact, we offer a variant of the Best System account on which the systemization procedure that generates the laws also serves to ground these states. We show how this account works by applying it to the example of Bohmian Mechanics. The 3N‐dimensional configuration space, the world particle in it and the wave function on it are part of the best system of the Humean mosaic, which consists of N particles moving in 3‐dimensional space. We argue that this account is superior to the Humean account of Bohmian Mechanics defended by Loewer and Albert, which takes the 3N‐dimensional space, and its inhabitants, as fundamental.
Leadership and the psychosocial work environment in old age care
Authors: Lundgren Dan , Ernsth‐Bravell Marie , Kåreholt Ingemar
Published: June 2015

Aims and objectives

To study leadership factors and their associations with psychosocial work environmental among nursing assistants who are engaged in old age care and to analyse (i) differences in the assessment of leadership factors and the assessment of psychosocial work environmental in nursing homes and home help services and (ii) the association between the psychosocial work environment and factors that are related to leadership in nursing homes and home help services.

Background

Leadership factors are an important element of the psychosocial work environment in old age care. The physical distance between leaders and nursing assistants is larger in home help services than in nursing homes. Therefore, it is important to study leadership separately in nursing homes and home help services.

Design

Assessments from 844 nursing assistants in nursing homes and 288 in home help services (45 nursing homes and 21 home help service units) were analysed.

Methods

The data were analysed using linear regression. Age, gender, number of staff at the unit, number of years at the current working unit and educational level were controlled in Model 1. Summarised indexes that were based on all independent variables except the main independent variable were additionally controlled in Model 2.

Results

Psychosocial work environment was related to leadership factors, but stronger associations occurred more frequently in nursing homes than in home help services. Empowering leadership, support from superiors, the primacy of human resources and control over decisions were associated with higher assessments on all the variables that were related to the psychosocial work environment in both the nursing homes and home help services.

Conclusions

Organisational differences in conducting leadership in old age care must be considered. Some leadership characteristics are better prerequisites for creating and maintaining a positive psychosocial work environment for nursing assistants in nursing homes and home help services.

Implications for practice

Due to the differences in organisational settings, it is important to consider the differences in prerequisites in conducting leadership. To influence nursing assistants' performance and to increase quality in old age care in the long term, appropriate leadership is necessary.
IFN‐γ mediates early B‐cell loss in experimental African trypanosomosis
Authors: Cnops J. , De Trez C. , Bulte D. , Radwanska M. , Ryffel B. , Magez S.
Published: June 2015

African trypanosomes infect humans and animals throughout the African continent. These parasites maintain chronic infections by various immune evasion strategies. While antigenic variation of their surface coat is the most studied strategy linked to evading the host humoral response, African trypanosomes also induce impaired B‐cell lymphopoiesis, the destruction of the splenic B‐cell compartment and abrogation of protective memory responses. Here we investigate the mechanism of follicular B‐cell destruction. We show that during infection follicular B cells undergo apoptosis, correlating to enhanced Fas death receptor surface expression. Investigation of various type 1 cytokine knockout mice indicates a crucial role of IFN‐γ in the early onset of FoB cell destruction. Indeed, both IFN‐γ−/− and IFN‐γR−/− mice are protected from trypanosomosis‐associated FoB cell depletion, exhibiting an inhibition of B‐cell apoptosis as well as a reduced activation of FoB cells during the first week post‐infection. The data presented herein offer new insights into B‐cell dysfunctioning during experimental African trypanosome infections.
Identification of new morphological differences between Chinese and Caucasian faces and influence of BMI on these characteristics
Authors: Machard A. , Jomier M. , Hottelart D. , Vié K.
Published: June 2015

Background

Concepts of beauty are more and more globalised leading to the homogenisation of the physical appearance. It is therefore important to identify morphological characteristics of ethnic groups. We compare faces from Chinese and Caucasian women, identify morphological differences that were not documented yet and study the influence of BMI on these differences.

Methods

The study was carried on groups of 60 women: a Chinese and a Caucasian group. Both included two equal sub‐groups: normal BMI and higher BMI. Face widths were measured from individual pictures and from reconstructed average faces obtained using a new reconstruction algorithm. Cheek/chin and neck/chin angles were determined from individual pictures. Topography of the cheekbone and temple face was determined by fringe projection technique. Ultrasound analysis allows measurements of hypodermis thickness.

Results

Our innovative average face reconstruction algorithm produced images of a yet unequalled quality with width characteristics similar to those of individual pictures. Analysis shows that faces of Chinese women are larger and rounder. They present other differences that were so far unidentified. Finally, overweight impacts differently Chinese and Caucasian women faces and has greater influence on Chinese women faces.
Rare cause of jaundice in a post liver transplant patient
Authors: She W.H. , Chok K.S.H. , Lo R.C.L. , Chan S.C. , Lo C.M.
Published: June 2015

A hepatitis B virus carrier suffering from acute flare of chronic hepatitis B infection underwent deceased‐donor liver transplantation. He was put on the immunosuppressive agent tacrolimus. On routine follow‐up, he was found to have abnormal liver function. Computed tomography scan of the abdomen did not show any dilatation of the biliary system. Liver biopsy showed scattered microabscesses, and a microgranuloma was detected. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiography was performed and a biliary anastomotic stricture (BAS) was noted. In addition, the Chinese liver fluke, Clonorchis sinensis, was discovered. Balloon dilatation and stenting were performed. The patient was given a course of praziquantel. His liver function improved and normalized. We present the case of a liver transplant recipient with cholangitis caused by C. sinensis infestation and infection and biliary obstruction resulting from BAS.
Improvement of plateletpheresis via technical modification on the MCS+
Authors: Zhou Q. , Yu X. , Liu L. , Cai Y.
Published: June 2015

Background

With the advantage of easy operation and high reliability, Haemonetics multicomponent collection system (MCS+) is widely used as a blood cell separator in clinical application.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of technical parameter modification as utilised on the MCS+ to improve the quality of platelet yielded as well as donor comfort.

Methods

After informed consent, a total of 118 donors, well matched for baseline parameters, were included in the study from December 2012 to April 2013. Sixty‐one donors underwent single‐dose plateletpheresis (SDP), and the other 57 donors underwent double‐dose plateletpheresis (DDP) before and after technical modification on the MCS+, respectively, according to the manufacturer's instructions. The procedures were evaluated, focusing on whole blood processed (WBP), processing time (PT) and number of cycles were measured, as well as the quality of products.

Results

No severe adverse reaction was found during donation. WBP, PT and number of cycles after modification were all reduced significantly in both SDP and DDP groups (P < 0·01). In addition, 80·51 % (95 in 118) of the total post‐modification products were qualified, presenting with high quality. Besides, the comfort of donors was also improved probably because of the reduced PT.

Conclusion

Adjustment of the relevant technical parameters on MCS+ could produce a beneficial effect on the procedure measures and ensure a high‐quality platelet production.
Treatment of corneal squamous cell carcinoma using topical 1% 5‐fluorouracil as monotherapy
Authors: Dorbandt Daniel M. , Driskell Elizabeth A. , Hamor Ralph E.
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this report is to discuss the use of topical 1% 5‐fluorouracil as a sole therapy for canine corneal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). A 12‐year‐old castrated male pug was evaluated for a well‐demarcated, central, 3 mm in diameter, pale pink, raised, right corneal mass. An incisional biopsy was obtained using a #64 beaver blade after topical anesthesia and without sedation. A definitive diagnosis of corneal SCC was obtained after histopathologic evaluation of the biopsy. Topical 1% 5‐fluorouracil ointment was applied to the right eye four times daily for 2 weeks followed by no treatment for 2 weeks, then treatment again twice daily for 2 weeks. The cornea remained free of recurrence 10 months after cessation of treatment. In dogs affected with corneal SCC, topical 1% 5‐fluorouracil monotherapy may be a viable and cost‐effective treatment option with minimal side effects. This chemotherapy agent may also have an effect on corneal pigmentation. Chronic cyclosporine therapy did not contribute to the pathogenesis of corneal SCC in the case described.
A case study of evidence for showing ‘no net loss’ of bird biodiversity in a development project
Authors: Murata Natsuki , Feest Alan
Published: June 2015

Given the development of global pressures on habitats and biodiversity, it is important that developments are accompanied with a compensation element leading to ‘no net loss’. We show how (using a standardised sampling process) a statistical assessment of the biodiversity quality of the target organisms (birds) in a compensatory provision can be shown to be a compensation or not. We used the example of the Cardiff Bay Barrage (Wales) where a bay was inundated and compensation site at Newport Gwent Levels (Wales) created. Bird data for the Cardiff Bay prior to the inundation and for Newport following inundation of Cardiff Bay were analysed to create a series of biodiversity quality indices and these were compared statistically. The analysis showed the compensation habitat was better than the original. Results were poor for Dunlin and Redshank, already subject to regional decline in the Severn Estuary and estuaries in NW Europe.
Outright Cash Purchase of Capital Assets and Enterprise Profitability in Nigeria: A Reflection on the Construction Industry
Authors: Nwanyanwu Loveday A.
Published: June 2015

This paper examines the influence of capital assets acquired outrightly by cash on enterprise profitability from the perspective of construction companies. Data were obtained by means of questionnaire. Analyses were performed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s product moment coefficient of correlation. Results of descriptive statistics indicate 61.11% preference for acquisition of capital assets by outright cash purchase. Correlation analysis reveals a statistically significant moderate positive relationship between capital assets acquired out rightly through cash payment and net profit. Own capital assets acquired by outright cash purchase improves net profit performance of construction companies. Companies in the construction sector should aim at investing in capital assets through outright cash purchase instead of hiring or leasing.
Optical cone beam tomography of Cherenkov‐mediated signals for fast 3D dosimetry of x‐ray photon beams in water
Authors: Glaser Adam K. , Andreozzi Jacqueline M. , Zhang Rongxiao , Pogue Brian W. , Gladstone David J.
Published: June 2015

Purpose:

To test the use of a three‐dimensional (3D) optical cone beam computed tomography reconstruction algorithm, for estimation of the imparted 3D dose distribution from megavoltage photon beams in a water tank for quality assurance, by imaging the induced Cherenkov‐excited fluorescence (CEF).

Methods:

An intensified charge‐coupled device coupled to a standard nontelecentric camera lens was used to tomographically acquire two‐dimensional (2D) projection images of CEF from a complex multileaf collimator (MLC) shaped 6 MV linear accelerator x‐ray photon beam operating at a dose rate of 600 MU/min. The resulting projections were used to reconstruct the 3D CEF light distribution, a potential surrogate of imparted dose, using a Feldkamp–Davis–Kress cone beam back reconstruction algorithm. Finally, the reconstructed light distributions were compared to the expected dose values from one‐dimensional diode scans, 2D film measurements, and the 3D distribution generated from the clinical Varian ECLIPSE treatment planning system using a gamma index analysis. A Monte Carlo derived correction was applied to the Cherenkov reconstructions to account for beam hardening artifacts.

Results:

3D light volumes were successfully reconstructed over a 400 × 400 × 350 mm3 volume at a resolution of 1 mm. The Cherenkov reconstructions showed agreement with all comparative methods and were also able to recover both inter‐ and intra‐MLC leaf leakage. Based upon a 3%/3 mm criterion, the experimental Cherenkov light measurements showed an 83%–99% pass fraction depending on the chosen threshold dose.

Conclusions:

The results from this study demonstrate the use of optical cone beam computed tomography using CEF for the profiling of the imparted dose distribution from large area megavoltage photon beams in water.
Validation of a New Counter for Direct Observation of Physical Activity in Parks
Authors: Han Bing , Cohen Deborah A. , Derose Kathryn Pitkin , Marsh Terence , Williamson Stephanie , Raaen Laura
Published: June 2015

Purpose:

This study aims to examine the reliability of a 12-button counter to simultaneously assess physical activity (PA) by age and gender subgroups in park settings.

Methods:

A total of 1,160 pairs of observations were conducted in 481 target areas of 19 neighborhood parks in the great Los Angeles, California, area between June 2013 and March 2014. Interrater reliability was assessed by Pearson’s correlation, intra-class correlation (ICC), and agreement probability in metabolic equivalents (METs). Cosine similarity was used to check the resemblance of distributions among age and gender categories. Pictures taken in a total of 112 target areas at the beginning of the observations were used as a second reliability check.

Results:

Interrater reliability was high for the total METs and METs in all age and gender categories (between 0.82 and 0.97), except for male seniors (correlations and ICC between 0.64 and 0.77, agreement probability 0.85 to 0.86). Reliability was higher for total METs than for METs spent in moderate-to-vigorous PA. Correlation and ICC between observers’ measurement and picture-based counts are also high (between 0.79 and 0.94).

Conclusion:

Trained observers can reliably use the 12-button counter to accurately assess PA distribution and disparities by age and gender.
The genetic legacy of more than a century of stocking trout: a case study in Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado, USA
Authors: Love Stowell Sierra M. , Kennedy Christopher M. , Beals Stower C. , Metcalf Jessica L. , Martin Andrew P.
Published: June 2015

Human introductions can obscure the diversity and distribution of native biota; hybridization with and replacement by introduced congeners is a primary conservation threat, particularly in salmonids. Cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii) are an important component of biodiversity in the American West, and all recognized subspecies are targets for state and federal conservation efforts. Rocky Mountain National Park (RMNP) in northern Colorado is a microcosm of trout introductions that happened worldwide. We used a combination of extensive stocking records and molecular genetic data to ask whether native trout populations persist despite stocking and whether patterns in the distribution of cutthroat trout clades could be explained by source and intensity of stocking. Nearly 15 million cutthroat trout were stocked into RMNP from a mosaic of sources in the 20th century. A single lineage of cutthroat trout was historically native to each side of the Continental Divide in RMNP, but we detected at least five divergent clades of cutthroat trout in 34 localities on both sides of the Divide. The distribution of lineages was predicted by stocking pressure and source but not by which lineage was historically native. The future of mixed and non-native cutthroat trout populations in RMNP poses a substantial conservation challenge.
The effects of salmon abundance and run timing on the performance of management by emergency order
Authors: Adkison Milo D. , Cunningham Curry J.
Published: June 2015

We examine the effect of uncertainty in salmon run abundance and run timing on the ability of managers to achieve escapement goals using in-season regulation of fishery openings using a detailed model of the arrival of salmon and operation of the fishery, the information available to managers, and managers’ behavior. We supplement this management strategy evaluation by examining historical management performance of sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) fisheries from Bristol Bay, Alaska. We find that uncertainty about run timing exacerbates the effects of uncertainty about salmon abundance. Early-arriving small runs and late-arriving large runs are especially problematic, as they produce in-season data that mimic that of a typically sized run with average run timing. Managers faced with an early-arriving small run will tend to overharvest the fish, particularly the earliest-arriving component. Managers faced with a late-arriving large run will tend to underharvest the fish, and harvest the latest-arriving components at a higher rate. This differential harvest of early or late components of the run is important because it might reduce the genetic diversity of the stock, thus reducing its future productivity.
Small changes in species composition despite stand-replacing bark beetle outbreak in Picea abies mountain forests
Authors: Fischer Anton , Fischer Hagen S. , Kopecký Martin , Macek Martin , Wild Jan
Published: June 2015

In the mid-1990s, a Spruce Bark Beetle (Ips typographus L.) outbreak affected the Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) forests in the higher elevations of the Bavarian Forest National Park in Germany. To monitor the effect of this large-scale disturbance on the understory vegetation, a series of permanent plots was established in 1998. Until 2000, most of the trees of the spruce-dominated forests at elevations > 1.100 m a.s.l. died. To explore the long-term vegetation development after the disturbance, we resurveyed these plots in 2010. We hypothesised that as a consequence of the stand-replacing disturbance, (i) species composition would change substantially, (ii) shade-tolerant forest species would be replaced by light-demanding species, and (iii) the expansion of the light-demanding species would homogenize species composition. Comparing the 1998 and 2010 situations, we found that species composition did not change substantially after the dieback of the tree layer, shade-tolerant species survived, light-demanding species increased only marginally, and vegetation heterogeneity did not change. The main reason is the missing forest floor disruption: there is no open space emerging for species to establish when trees die standing. As a consequence, a dramatic change in ecosystem structure (loss of the whole canopy layer) is not necessarily connected with a general change in species composition.
Managing tree plantations as novel socioecological systems: Australian and North American perspectives
Authors: Lindenmayer David , Messier Christian , Paquette Alain , Hobbs Richard J.
Published: June 2015

Novel ecosystems occur when new combinations of species appear within a particular biome. They typically result from direct human activity, environmental change, or the impacts of introduced species. In this paper, we argue that considering commercial tree plantations as novel ecosystems has the potential to help policy makers, resource managers, and conservation biologists better deal with the challenges and opportunities associated with managing plantations for multiple purposes at both the stand and landscape scales. We outline five inter-related issues associated with managing tree plantations, which are arguably the largest form of terrestrial novel ecosystem worldwide. This is to ensure that these areas contribute significantly to critical ecosystem services, including biodiversity conservation, in addition to their wood production role. We suggest that viewing tree plantations as novel socioecological systems may free managers from a narrow stand-based perspective and having to compare them with natural forest stands. This can help promote the development of management principles that better integrate plantations into the larger landscape so that their benefits are maximized and their potential negative ecological effects are minimized.
On the extension of unitary group isomorphisms of unital UHF-algebras
Authors: Al-Rawashdeh Ahmed
Published: June 2015

H. Dye showed that an isomorphism between the (discrete) unitary groups in two factors not of type In is implemented by a linear (or a conjugate linear) *-isomorphism of the factors. If φ is an isomorphism between the unitary groups of two unital C*-algebras, it induces a bijective map θφ between the sets of projections. For certain UHF-algebras, we construct an automorphism φ of their unitary group, such that θφ does not preserve the orthogonality of projections. For a large class of unital finite C*-algebras, we show that θφ is always an orthoisomorphism. If φ is a continuous automorphism of the unitary group of a UHF-algebra A, we show that φ is implemented by a linear or a conjugate linear *-automorphism of A.
THE RELATIVE CONTRIBUTIONS OF DOMESTIC AND FOREIGN DIRECT INVESTMENTS AND EXPORTS TO MALAYSIA'S ECONOMIC GROWTH
Authors: TANG CHOR FOON , TAN EU CHYE
Published: June 2015

The objective of this study is to assess the roles of domestic direct investment, foreign direct investment and exports as catalysts of Malaysia's economic growth using cointegration and Granger causality test techniques. To address the dynamics in the growth relationships, the study also performs time-varying regression and variance decomposition analyses. It covers the quarterly sample period from 1991:Q1 to 2010:Q2. The econometric results suggest that all the three variables have a positive impact on economic growth and thus are catalytic to economic growth. However, the growth effect of domestic direct investment is more stable than that of the other two growth determinants. Contrary to earlier empirical studies, the variance decomposition analysis herein reveals that domestic direct investment is the most important determinant of growth in the long-run (L-R) compared to exports and foreign direct investment.
ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND GROWTH: NEW EVIDENCE FROM A NON-LINEAR PANEL AND A SAMPLE OF DEVELOPING COUNTRIES
Authors: OMAY TOLGA , APERGIS NICHOLAS , ÖZÇELEBI HÜLYA
Published: June 2015

This paper investigates the relationship between economic growth and energy consumption through non-linear causality tests. Eight developing countries from Europe and Central Asia spanning the period 1993 to 2008 are selected for the purpose of panel empirical analysis. Panel unit root and panel cointegration tests with and without considering cross section dependency (CD) problems are implemented. Next, linear panel cointegration tests are employed and, finally, a two-regime Dynamic Panel Smooth Transition Vector Error Correction (PSTRVEC) model is estimated for testing the presence of non-linear short- and long-run causality. To this end, a new estimator, called the Dynamic Non-linear Pooled Common Correlated Effect Estimator (DNPCCEE) is proposed. The empirical findings indicate that short and long-run causalities are regime-dependent.
FACTORS AFFECTING TAX EVASION: DO INTEREST RATE AND REGIONAL EFFECTS MATTER?
Authors: HSU YI-CHUNG , LEE CHIEN-CHIANG
Published: June 2015

This paper empirically investigates the relationship among the tax evasion and local disposal income, unemployment rate and demographic variables by using 20 municipalities in Taiwan with the official interior, latest, and wider range of panel data over the period from 1998 to 2011. The main findings support the positive impact of disposal income on tax evasion, while unemployment rate has a negative impact. Among the interest rate effect models, if policy-makers want to hinder the extension of tax evasion, they should reduce the interest rate. Furthermore, government not only applies fiscal policy but also applies monetary policy for improving tax evasion. In our regional effect model, we have found evidence on a positive impact of the demographic structure variables on tax evasion except social expenditure of local government. We have also found clear evidence on the positive impact in South and East areas on tax evasion in the regional effect model. Moreover, both interest rate and regional factors have an influence on tax evasion.
Neutrino masses and SO10 unification
Authors: Minkowski P.
Published: June 2015

We present the embedding of the SM gauge group in SO10, a simple, compact unifying gauge group, with each of the three basic spin 1/2 families forming a unitary, irreducible 16-dimensional representation of spin10, which is complex, i.e. chiral. Subtle differences to the mixed representations of SU5, contained in the SO10 scheme, are pointed out. These have consequences for neutrino flavors, which become paired in a light [Formula: see text]-active doublet mode and a heavy SM singlet mode, one [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text]-pair per family.
Boundary conditions for conformally coupled scalar in AdS4
Authors: Oh Jae-Hyuk
Published: June 2015

We consider conformally coupled scalar with [Formula: see text] coupling in [Formula: see text] and study its various boundary conditions on AdS boundary. We have obtained perturbative solutions of equation of motion of the conformally coupled scalar with power expansion order by order in [Formula: see text] coupling [Formula: see text] up to [Formula: see text] order. In its dual CFT, we get 2, 4 and 6 point functions by using this solution with Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions via AdS/CFT dictionary. We also consider marginal deformation on AdS boundary and get its on-shell and boundary effective actions.
Non-anticommutative quantum gravity
Authors: Moffat J. W.
Published: June 2015

A calculation of the one loop gravitational self-energy graph in non-anticommutative quantum gravity reveals that graviton loops are damped by internal momentum dependent factors in the modified propagator and the vertex functions. The non-anticommutative quantum gravity perturbation theory is finite for matter-free gravity and for matter interactions.
Background independence, gauge invariance and equations of motion for closed string modes
Authors: Sathiapalan B.
Published: June 2015

In an earlier paper, gauge invariant and background covariant equations for closed string modes were obtained from the exact Renormalization Group of the world sheet theory. The background metric (but not the physical metric) had to be flat and hence the method was not manifestly background independent. In this paper, the restrictions on the background metric are relaxed. A simple prescription for the map from loop variables to space–time fields is given whereby for arbitrary backgrounds the equations are generally covariant and gauge invariant. Extra terms involving couplings of the curvature tensor to (derivatives of) the Stueckelberg fields have to be added. The background metric can thus be chosen to be the physical metric without any restrictions. This method thus gives manifestly background independent equations of motion for both open and closed string modes.
Decay constants and masses of light tensor mesons (JP = 2+)
Authors: Khosravi R. , Hatami D.
Published: June 2015

The masses and decay constants of the light tensor mesons were calculated with quantum numbers [Formula: see text] in the framework of the QCD sum rules in the standard model. The non perturbative contributions up to dimension-5 are considered as important terms of the operator product expansion.
Kinetic-energy-driven superconductivity in cuprate superconductors
Authors: Feng Shiping , Lan Yu , Zhao Huaisong , Kuang Lülin , Qin Ling , Ma Xixiao
Published: June 2015

Superconductivity in cuprate superconductors occurs upon charge-carrier doping Mott insulators, where a central question is what mechanism causes the loss of electrical resistance below the superconducting (SC) transition temperature? In this paper, we attempt to summarize the basic idea of the kinetic-energy-driven SC mechanism in the description of superconductivity in cuprate superconductors. The mechanism of the kinetic-energy-driven superconductivity is purely electronic without phonons, where the charge-carrier pairing interaction in the particle–particle channel arises directly from the kinetic energy by the exchange of spin excitations in the higher powers of the doping concentration. This kinetic-energy-driven d-wave SC-state is controlled by both the SC gap and quasiparticle coherence, which leads to that the maximal SC transition temperature occurs around the optimal doping, and then decreases in both the underdoped and overdoped regimes. In particular, the same charge-carrier interaction mediated by spin excitations that induces the SC-state in the particle–particle channel also generates the normal-state pseudogap state in the particle–hole channel. The normal-state pseudogap crossover temperature is much larger than the SC transition temperature in the underdoped and optimally doped regimes, and then monotonically decreases upon the increase of doping, eventually disappearing together with superconductivity at the end of the SC dome. This kinetic-energy-driven SC mechanism also indicates that the strong electron correlation favors superconductivity, since the main ingredient is identified into a charge-carrier pairing mechanism not from the external degree of freedom such as the phonon but rather solely from the internal spin degree of freedom of the electron. The typical properties of cuprate superconductors discussed within the framework of the kinetic-energy-driven SC mechanism are also reviewed.
Doping effects in p- and n-type layers of 390-nm InGaN DQW lasers
Authors: Alahyarizadeh Gh. , Amirhoseiny M. , Hassan Z.
Published: June 2015

The performance characteristics of deep violet InGaN laser diodes (LDs) are theoretically studied with the effects of doping concentrations in p- and n-type layers. Comprehensive study on output performance characteristics such as output power, threshold current, slope efficiency, DQE, and optical intensity, as well as on several internal parameters such as quantum well (QW) carrier densities, electron and hole current densities of deep violet InGaN double quantum well (DQW) lasers, have been done. The simulation results indicate that output power of LD is increased by increasing doping concentration in both n- and p-type layers. it can be due to increased carrier current densities and consequently increased radiative recombination. The results also indicate decrease in slope efficiency and DQE with increasing doping concentration. This situation can be caused by increasing nonradiative recombinations, such as Auger recombination inside and outside the active region, current overflow from the active region, and optical losses. Increasing current overflow from the active region also causes an increase in threshold current. Using higher doping concentration in n-type layers results in increase in electron current density in the n-side and consequently, higher electron flow in the active region. It causes an increase in higher radiative recombination and a higher need for holes and consequently, a higher hole current density in p-type layers. As well as, optical intensity of LDs is increased by increasing the doping concentration.
The effects of Bi4Ti3O12 interfacial ferroelectric layer on the dielectric properties of Au/n-Si structures
Authors: Gökçen Muharrem , Yıldırım Mert
Published: June 2015

Au/n-Si metal-semiconductor (MS) and Au/Bi4Ti3O12/n-Si metal-ferroelectric-semiconductor (MFS) structures were fabricated and admittance measurements were held between 5 kHz and 1 MHz at room temperature so that dielectric properties of these structures could be investigated. The ferroelectric interfacial layer Bi4Ti3O12 decreased the polarization voltage by providing permanent dipoles at metal/semiconductor interface. Depending on different mechanisms, dispersion behavior was observed in dielectric constant, dielectric loss and loss tangent versus bias voltage plots of both MS and MFS structures. The real and imaginary parts of complex modulus of MFS structure take smaller values than those of MS structure, because permanent dipoles in ferroelectric layer cause a large spontaneous polarization mechanism. While the dispersion in AC conductivity versus frequency plots of MS structure was observed at high frequencies, for MFS structure it was observed at lower frequencies.
Hadron formation from interaction among quarks
Authors: Tan Z. G. , Yang C. B.
Published: June 2015

This paper deals with the hadronization process of quark system. A phenomenological potential is introduced to describe the interaction between a quark pair. The potential depends on the color charge of those quarks and their relative distances. Those quarks move according to classical equations of motion. Due to the color interaction, coloring quarks are separated to form color neutral clusters which are supposed to be the hadrons.
Towards E-Commerce Use for Pro-Poor Tourism Promotion: Local Providers' ICT Training Needs in Tanzania
Authors: Masele Juma James
Published: June 2015

Although e-commerce and related technologies are regarded as tourism business' natural partners, opportunities emanating from their use may not be fully realized unless users are equipped with required information and communication technologies (ICT) knowledge. A need for capacity building is thus critical to providing developing countries with opportunities to capitalize on the opportunities offered by ICT. This study was carried in Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania to investigate ICT training level and current ICT training needs among the micro-small and medium tourism enterprises (MSMTEs). Using snowballing non-probability sampling technique, data was collected from willing 69 MSMTEs. While quantitative data was analyzed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS), descriptive answers were contently summarized. Activities identified include tour operating, souvenirs, Tingatinga drawings, Maasi carvings, boutique selling, hotel operation, animal zoos, backpacking and information services provision. Areas that revealed importance and urgency for training include internet usage, purchasing and selling products via the Internet, basic web designing and maintenance and troubleshooting. Others are basic software applications such as Microsoft word, spreadsheet, report processing and presentation. Need for government support in laying out infrastructure, supportive policies that favor sponsored trainings and subsidized investments in ICT was exposed as important ingredients for tourism competitive advantages.
Frequency Versus Effect — Obstacles to Innovation and Their Relationship to Innovation Self-Efficacy
Authors: Karlsson Anna , Stetler Katarina Lund
Published: June 2015

A vast number of studies analyze the effects of obstacles to innovation but often neglect the operational level in the organizational hierarchies, although this level is known to power innovation. This study explores how the operative level and first-level managers in two large R&D organizations perceive innovation obstacles. Beyond investigating the mere frequency of the obstacle, we also study their effect on employees' innovation self-efficacy. While time-related obstacles are the most frequently identified ones at both firms, they are not significantly related to a decrease in innovation self-efficacy. Instead we find that obstacles referring to organizational culture, goals and strategies, as well as project portfolio management, are significantly related to lower levels of innovation self-efficacy.