bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tribological Behavior of Spark Plasma Sintered Aluminum-Graphene Composites at Room and Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Rengifo Sara , Zhang Cheng , Harimkar Sandip , Boesl Benjamin , Agarwal Arvind
Published: January 2017

This study examines the role of Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) as a solid lubricant additive to aluminum. Pure Al and Al-2 vol % GNP pellets are sintered by Spark Plasma Sintering (SPS). Their tribological properties are evaluated by a ball-on-disk tribometer at room temperature (RT) and high temperature (200 °C). Al-2 vol % GNP composite displayed poor densification (91%) and low hardness, resulting in poor wear resistance as compared to pure Al. However GNP addition resulted in a lower coefficient of friction (COF) as compared to pure aluminum at both temperatures. The results demonstrated that GNPs contribute to reducing COF by forming a protective tribolayer. GNPs also play a unique role in reducing oxygen ingress at 200 °C. It is concluded that the packing density of a starting powder blend of Al-GNP needs to be improved by using irregular shaped aluminum powder mixed with both larger and smaller GNPs. This would result in greater densification and improve wear rate while maintaining low COF.
Monitoring of Calcite Precipitation in Hardwater Lakes with Multi-Spectral Remote Sensing Archives
Authors: Heine Iris , Brauer Achim , Heim Birgit , Itzerott Sibylle , Kasprzak Peter , Kienel Ulrike , Kleinschmit Birgit
Published: January 2017

Calcite precipitation is a common phenomenon in calcium-rich hardwater lakes during spring and summer, but the number and spatial distribution of lakes with calcite precipitation is unknown. This paper presents a remote sensing based method to observe calcite precipitation over large areas, which are an important prerequisite for a systematic monitoring and evaluation of restoration measurements. We use globally archived satellite remote sensing data for a retrospective systematic assessment of past multi-temporal calcite precipitation events. The database of this study consists of 205 data sets that comprise freely available Landsat and Sentinel 2 data acquired between 1998 and 2015 covering the Northeast German Plain. Calcite precipitation is automatically identified using the green spectra and the metric BGR area, the triangular area between the blue, green and red reflectance value. The validation is based on field measurements of CaCO3 concentrations at three selected lakes, Feldberger Haussee, Breiter Luzin and Schmaler Luzin. The classification accuracy (0.88) is highest for calcite concentrations ≥0.7 mg/L. False negative results are caused by the choice of a conservative classification threshold. False positive results can be explained by already increased calcite concentrations. We successfully transferred the developed method to 21 other hardwater lakes in Northeast Germany. The average duration of lakes with regular calcite precipitation is 37 days. The frequency of calcite precipitation reaches from single time detections up to detections nearly every year. False negative classification results and gaps in Landsat time series reduce the accuracy of frequency and duration monitoring, but in future the image density will increase by acquisitions of Sentinel-2a (and 2b). Our study tested successfully the transfer of the classification approach to Sentinel-2 images. Our study shows that 15 of the 24 lakes have at least one phase of calcite precipitation and all events occur between May and September. At the lakes Schmaler Luzin and Feldberger Haussee, we illustrated the influence of ecological restoration measures aiming at nutrient reduction in the lake water on calcite precipitation. Our study emphasizes the high variance of calcite precipitation in hardwater lakes: each lake has to be monitored individually, which is feasible using Landsat and Sentinel-2 time series.
Altered Precipitation and Flow Patterns in the Dunajec River Basin
Authors: Kędra Mariola
Published: January 2017

This study analyzes changes in long-term patterns of precipitation and river flow, as well as changes in their variability over the most recent 60 years (1956–2015). The study area is situated in the mountain basin of the Dunajec River, encompassing streams draining the Tatra Mountains in southern Poland. The focus of the study was to evaluate how regional warming translates into precipitation changes in the studied mountain region, and how changes in climate affect sub-regional hydrology. Monthly time series of precipitation measured at several sites were compared for two 30-year periods (1986–2015 versus 1956–1985). The significance of the difference between the periods in question was evaluated by means of the Wilcoxon signed rank test with the Bonferroni correction. The identified shifts in precipitation for 6 months are statistically significant and largely consistent with the revealed changes in river flow patterns. Moreover, significant differences in precipitation variability were noted in the study area, resulting in a significant decrease in the repeatability of precipitation over the most recent 30 years (1986–2015). Changes in the variability of the river flow studied were less visible in this particular mountain region (while significant for two months); however, the overall repeatability of river flow decreased significantly at the same rate as for precipitation.
The Impact of Tourism Advertising on Corporate Attitudes and Tourism Intentions: Country and Corporation Interactions in the Halo Effect and Public Diplomacy
Authors: Jin Young Ju , Min Wonjung , Yoo Jae-Woong
Published: January 2017

This study examines the halo effect of advertising a tourism destination overseas on attitudes toward its corporations and the public diplomacy efforts of the private sector on tourist intentions to visit. Three types of advertiser were identified (country, company, and mixed country/company).
The respective dependent variables were corporate attitudes and tourism intentions. An international comparison was undertaken drawing upon university students from South Korea and Chile. Partial halo and public diplomacy effects were observed, with joint country/company advertisements proving
to be more effective than advertising conducted by a single country or corporation. Theoretical and practical implications are suggested, along with potential limitations of the study.
How Do Leisure Constraints Influence the Revisit Intentions of Music Festival Visitors?
Authors: Nuijten Maikel , De Rooij Pieter , Snoeckx Laurent
Published: January 2017

Leisure constraints affecting participation can be divided into intrapersonal, interpersonal, and structural constraints. Only a few studies in the event industry have investigated the role of leisure constraints. These studies show different effects of leisure constraints on participation.
The purpose of this article is to examine the influence of leisure constraints on revisit intention regarding music festivals. This study is of quantitative nature and utilizes survey research. A sample of 1,063 respondents was used within the analyses, measuring the influence of perceived
constraints on revisit intention. The results show that intrapersonal constraints (a lack of importance and interest) and structural constraints (travel time, a lack of time, costs, and a lack of satisfaction with the festival area) significantly influence revisit intention. In line with results
from other leisure industries, intrapersonal constraints show the strongest effects. Interpersonal constraints do not affect revisit intentions. Music festivals should ideally maintain a high level of engagement with the visitors throughout the year to ensure continuous involvement.
The Use of Sina Weibo and Twitter by International Luxury Hotels
Authors: Wen Wu , Clark Melissa , Kang Bomi , Fine Monica
Published: January 2017

Social media is a valuable marketing tool in the hospitality and tourism industry. Microblogging sites (social media sites comprised of concise, frequent posts) have allowed customers to discuss brands online with other customers across the globe. Focusing on the international luxury hotel segment, this article compares Twitter in the US and Sina Weibo in China. We collected data from both sites using content analysis and analyzed it using independent chi-square tests. The results suggest that luxury hotels communicated their messages and brand images differently through Twitter and Sina Weibo and provided additional promotion activities on Sina Weibo to attract customers in China.
Does Korean Drama Have a Real Influence? An Analysis of Malaysia Outbound Tourists to South Korea
Authors: Teh Pek Yen , Goh Hong Ching
Published: January 2017

Korea has recently emerged as one of the top tourism destinations in the world, and a catalyst of its rapidly developing tourism industry is Korean drama. Studies on Korean tourism, which focus on sociocultural and gender-related issues, as well as audience behaviors, have been conducted
in the Asian region. However, these studies have been geographically limited to monoethnic countries only. As one of the countries contributing to Korea's inbound tourism, Malaysia experienced a significant increase of tourists visiting Korea. Hence, this study aims to identify the motivation
segmentation and overall satisfaction level among Malaysian tourists visiting Korea. Specifically, the study aims to identify the influence of Korean drama in their overall experience. A questionnaire-based survey of these tourists was conducted in Seoul City, and cluster analysis was applied
to derive motivation segmentation from the collected data. Afterwards, a characteristic comparison was accomplished between drama- and non-drama-watching tourists. Finally, the overall satisfaction of tourists was determined. Results showed three types of motivation segmentation and revealed
characteristic differences between the drama- and non-drama-watching tourists. Furthermore, these segmented motivations manifested significant differences in terms of overall satisfaction. In general, Malaysian tourists perceived Korea as a place for family and social bonding, as well as for
relaxation and cultural exploration. Interestingly, Korean drama did not influence the overall tourist satisfaction, although it serves as a cultural platform through which tourists gained familiarity with the destination prior to the trip.
Intranational Travel, Traveling Professional Workers, and Familiarization with a New Home
Authors: Tran My Nguyen Diem , Weaver Adam
Published: January 2017

This article examines the relationship between the intranational travel behavior of traveling professional workers (TPWs) and their familiarization with the host country, Vietnam, as their new home. A total of 34 interviews were conducted with TPWs in the hospitality and tourism industries
in Da Nang and Hoi An. The research found that the intranational travel behavior of TPWs is related to their familiarization with the host country as their new home. In particular, the intranational travel motivations of TPWs reveal their desire to become familiar with a new home. Intranational
travel patterns such as choice of destination, activities undertaken, and volume of travel have an impact on a TPW's familiarization with a new home as do intranational travel experiences. The results of this study suggest that TPWs represent a residential international travel market and use
intranational travel for a specific purpose: adapting to a new (temporary or permanent) home. Recommendations are made for TPWs, local marketers, and future research.
Obtaining and doping of InAs-QD/GaAs(001) nanostructures by ion beam sputtering
Authors: Chebotarev Sergei N , Pashchenko Alexander S , Lunin Leonid S , Zhivotova Elena N , Erimeev Georgy A , Lunina Marina L
Published: January 2017

The features of InAs quantum dots obtained on GaAs(001) single-crystal substrates by ion-beam sputtering were investigated. It has been shown that in the range of ion energies of 150 to 200 eV at a temperature of 500 °C and a beam current of 120 µA InAs quantum dots with average dimensions below 15 nm and a surface density of 1011 cm−2 are formed. The technique of controlled doping of InAs/GaAs nanostructures using a SnTe solid-state source was proposed. It has been established that a maximum donor concentration of 8.7·1018 cm−3 in the GaAs spacer layer is reached at an evaporation temperature of 415 °С. At the same time, impurity accumulation in the growth direction was observed. We have shown that increasing the impurity doping of the GaAs barrier layer increases the intensity of photoluminescence peaks of the ground state and the first excited state of the InAs quantum dots.
Graphene–polymer coating for the realization of strain sensors
Authors: Bonavolontà Carmela , Aramo Carla , Valentino Massimo , Pepe Giampiero , De Nicola Sergio , Carotenuto Gianfranco , Longo Angela , Palomba Mariano , Boccardi Simone , Meola Carosena
Published: January 2017

In this work we present a novel route to produce a graphene-based film on a polymer substrate. A transparent graphite colloidal suspension was applied to a slat of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA). The good adhesion to the PMMA surface, combined with the shear stress, allows a uniform and continuous spreading of the graphite nanocrystals, resulting in a very uniform graphene multilayer coating on the substrate surface. The fabrication process is simple and yields thin coatings characterized by high optical transparency and large electrical piezoresitivity. Such properties envisage potential applications of this polymer-supported coating for use in strain sensing. The electrical and mechanical properties of these PMMA/graphene coatings were characterized by bending tests. The electrical transport was investigated as a function of the applied stress. The structural and strain properties of the polymer composite material were studied under stress by infrared thermography and micro-Raman spectroscopy.
Synthesis of multi-lactose-appended β-cyclodextrin and its cholesterol-lowering effects in Niemann–Pick type C disease-like HepG2 cells
Authors: Motoyama Keiichi , Nishiyama Rena , Maeda Yuki , Higashi Taishi , Ishitsuka Yoichi , Kondo Yuki , Irie Tetsumi , Era Takumi , Arima Hidetoshi
Published: January 2017

Niemann–Pick type C (NPC) disease, characterized by intracellular accumulation of unesterified cholesterol and other lipids owing to defects in two proteins NPC1 and NPC2, causes neurodegeneration and other fatal neurovisceral symptoms. Currently, treatment of NPC involves the use of 2-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD). HP-β-CD is effective in the treatment of hepatosplenomegaly in NPC disease, albeit at a very high dose. One of the methods to reduce the required dose of HP-β-CD for treatment of NPC is to actively targeting hepatocytes with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD). The aim of the present study was to synthesize a novel multi-lactose-appended β-CD (multi-Lac-β-CD) and to evaluate its cholesterol-lowering effect in U18666A-treated HepG2 (NPC-like HepG2) cells. Further, the study aimed at delivering β-CD to hepatocytes via cholesterol-accumulated HepG2 cells, and indicated that the newly synthesized multi-Lac-β-CD had an average degree of substitution of lactose (DSL) of 5.6. This newly synthesized multi-Lac-β-CD was found to significantly decrease the concentration of intracellular cholesterol with negligible cytotoxicity as compared to HP-β-CD. An increased internalization of TRITC-multi-Lac-β-CD (DSL 5.6) as compared to TRITC-HP-β-CD was observed in NPC-like HepG2 cells. Further, the dissociation constant of peanut lectin with multi-Lac-β-CD (DSL5.6) was found to be extremely low (2.5 × 10−8 M). These results indicate that multi-Lac-β-CD (DSL5.6) diminished intracellular cholesterol levels in NPC-like HepG2 cells via asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGPR)-mediated endocytosis.
CHARACTERIZATION OF THE INNER DISK AROUND HD 141569 A FROM KECK/NIRC2 L-BAND VORTEX CORONAGRAPHY
Authors: Mawet Dimitri , Choquet Élodie , Absil Olivier , Huby Elsa , Bottom Michael , Serabyn Eugene , Femenia Bruno , Lebreton Jérémy , Matthews Keith , Gonzalez Carlos A. Gomez , Wertz Olivier , Carlomagno Brunella , Christiaens Valentin , Defrère Denis , Delacroix Christian , Forsberg Pontus , Habraken Serge , Jolivet Aissa , Karlsson Mikael , Milli Julien , Pinte Christophe , Piron Pierre , Reggiani Maddalena , Surdej Jean , Catalan Ernesto Vargas
Published: January 2017

HD 141569 A is a pre-main sequence B9.5 Ve star surrounded by a prominent and complex circumstellar disk, likely still in a transition stage from protoplanetary to debris disk phase. Here, we present a new image of the third inner disk component of HD 141569 A made in the L′ band (3.8 μm) during the commissioning of the vector vortex coronagraph that has recently been installed in the near-infrared imager and spectrograph NIRC2 behind the W.M. Keck Observatory Keck II adaptive optics system. We used reference point-spread function subtraction, which reveals the innermost disk component from the inner working distance of ≃23 au and up to ≃70 au. The spatial scale of our detection roughly corresponds to the optical and near-infrared scattered light, thermal Q, N, and 8.6 μm PAH emission reported earlier. We also see an outward progression in dust location from the L′ band to the H band (Very Large Telescope/SPHERE image) to the visible (Hubble Space Telescope (HST)/STIS image), which is likely indicative of dust blowout. The warm disk component is nested deep inside the two outer belts imaged by HST-NICMOS in 1999 (at 406 and 245 au, respectively). We fit our new L′-band image and spectral energy distribution of HD 141569 A with the radiative transfer code MCFOST. Our best-fit models favor pure olivine grains and are consistent with the composition of the outer belts. While our image shows a putative very faint point-like clump or source embedded in the inner disk, we did not detect any true companion within the gap between the inner disk and the first outer ring, at a sensitivity of a few Jupiter masses.
KEPLER-108: A MUTUALLY INCLINED GIANT PLANET SYSTEM
Authors: Mills Sean M. , Fabrycky Daniel C.
Published: January 2017

The vast majority of well studied giant-planet systems, including the solar system, are nearly coplanar, which implies dissipation within a primordial gas disk. However, intrinsic instability may lead to planet–planet scattering, which often produces non-coplanar, eccentric orbits. Planet scattering theories have been developed to explain observed high-eccentricity systems and also hot Jupiters; thus far their predictions for mutual inclination (I) have barely been tested. Here we characterize a highly mutually inclined (°), moderately eccentric () giant planet system: Kepler-108. This system consists of two approximately Saturn-mass planets with periods of approximately 49 and 190 days around a star with a wide (∼300 au) binary companion in an orbital configuration inconsistent with a purely disk migration origin.
THE NEXT GENERATION VIRGO CLUSTER SURVEY. XXII. SHELL FEATURE EARLY-TYPE DWARF GALAXIES IN THE VIRGO CLUSTER*
Authors: Paudel Sanjaya , Smith Rory , Duc Pierre-Alain , Côté Patrick , Cuillandre Jean-Charles , Ferrarese Laura , Blakeslee John P. , Boselli Alessandro , Cantiello Michele , Gwyn S. D. J. , Guhathakurta Puragra , Mei Simona , Mihos J. Christopher , Peng Eric W. , Powalka Mathieu , Sánchez-Janssen Rúben , Toloba Elisa , Zhang Hongxin
Published: January 2017

The Next Generation Virgo Cluster Survey is a deep (with a 2σ detection limit μ

g
 = 29 mag arcsec−2 in the g-band) optical panchromatic survey targeting the Virgo cluster from its core to virial radius, for a total areal coverage of 104 square degrees. As such, the survey is well suited for the study of galaxies’ outskirts, haloes, and low surface brightness features that arise from dynamical interactions within the cluster environment. We report the discovery of extremely faint (μ

g
 > 25 mag arcsec−2) shells in three Virgo cluster early-type dwarf galaxies: VCC 1361, VCC 1447, and VCC 1668. Among them, VCC 1447 has an absolute magnitude M

g
 = −11.71 mag and is the least massive galaxy with a shell system discovered to date. We present a detailed study of these low surface brightness features. We detect between three and four shells in each of our galaxies. Within the uncertainties, we find no evidence of a color difference between the galaxy main body and shell features. The observed arcs of the shells are located up to several effective radii of the galaxies. We further explore the origin of these low surface brightness features with the help of idealized numerical simulations. We find that a near equal mass merger is best able to reproduce the main properties of the shells, including their quite symmetric appearance and their alignment along the major axis of the galaxy. The simulations provide support for a formation scenario in which a recent merger, between two near-equal mass, gas-free dwarf galaxies, forms the observed shell systems.
BINARY BLACK HOLES IN DENSE STAR CLUSTERS: EXPLORING THE THEORETICAL UNCERTAINTIES
Authors: Chatterjee Sourav , Rodriguez Carl L. , Rasio Frederic A.
Published: January 2017

Recent N-body simulations predict that large numbers of stellar black holes (BHs) could at present remain bound to globular clusters (GCs), and merging BH–BH binaries are produced dynamically in significant numbers. We systematically vary “standard” assumptions made by numerical simulations related to, e.g., BH formation, stellar winds, binary properties of high-mass stars, and IMF within existing uncertainties, and study the effects on the evolution of the structural properties of GCs, and the BHs in GCs. We find that variations in initial assumptions can set otherwise identical initial clusters on completely different evolutionary paths, significantly affecting their present observable properties, or even affecting the cluster’s very survival to the present. However, these changes usually do not affect the numbers or properties of local BH–BH mergers. The only exception is that variations in the assumed winds and IMF can change the masses and numbers of local BH–BH mergers, respectively. All other variations (e.g., in initial binary properties and binary fraction) leave the masses and numbers of locally merging BH–BH binaries largely unchanged. This is in contrast to binary population synthesis models for the field, where results are very sensitive to many uncertain parameters in the initial binary properties and binary stellar-evolution physics. Weak winds are required for producing GW150914-like mergers from GCs at low redshifts. LVT151012 can be produced in GCs modeled both with strong and weak winds. GW151226 is lower-mass than typical mergers from GCs modeled with weak winds, but is similar to mergers from GCs modeled with strong winds.
THE PANCHROMATIC HUBBLE ANDROMEDA TREASURY. XVII. EXAMINING OBSCURED STAR FORMATION WITH SYNTHETIC ULTRAVIOLET FLUX MAPS IN M31*
Authors: Lewis Alexia R. , Simones Jacob E. , Johnson Benjamin D. , Dalcanton Julianne J. , Skillman Evan D. , Weisz Daniel R. , Dolphin Andrew E. , Williams Benjamin F. , Bell Eric F. , Fouesneau Morgan , Kapala Maria , Rosenfield Philip , Schruba Andreas
Published: January 2017

We present synthetic far- and near-ultraviolet (

FUV

and

NUV

) maps of M31, both with and without dust reddening. These maps were constructed from spatially resolved star formation histories (SFHs) derived from optical Hubble Space Telescope imaging of resolved stars, taken as part of the Panchromatic Hubble Andromeda Treasury program. We use stellar population synthesis modeling to generate synthetic UV maps with a spatial resolution of ∼100 pc (∼24 arcsec), projected. When reddening is included, these maps reproduce all of the main morphological features in the GALEX imaging, including rings and large star-forming complexes. The predicted UV flux also agrees well with the observed flux, with median ratios between the modeled and observed flux of

log

10

(

f

FUV

syn

/

f

FUV

obs

)
=
0.03
±
0.24

and

log

10

(

f

NUV

syn

/

f

NUV

obs

)
=
−
0.03
±
0.16

in the

FUV

and

NUV

, respectively. This agreement is particularly impressive given that we used only optical photometry to construct these UV maps. Having verified the synthetic reddened maps, we use the dust-free maps to examine properties of obscured flux and star formation. We compare our dust-free and reddened maps of

FUV

flux with the observed GALEX

FUV

flux and

FUV

+ 24 μm flux to examine the fraction of obscured flux. We find that the maps of synthetic flux require that ∼90% of the

FUV

flux in M31 is obscured by dust, while the GALEX -based methods suggest that ∼70% of the

FUV

flux is absorbed by dust. This 30% increase in the estimate of the obscured flux is driven by significant differences between the dust-free synthetic

FUV

flux and that derived when correcting the observed

FUV

flux for dust absorption with 24 μm emission observations. The difference is further illustrated when we compare the SFRs derived from the

FUV

+ 24 μm flux with the 100 Myr average SFR from the CMD-based SFHs. We find that the 24 μm corrected

FUV

flux underestimates the SFR by a factor of 2.3–2.5, depending on the chosen calibration. This discrepancy could be reduced by allowing for variability in the weight applied to the 24 μm data, as has been recently suggested in the literature.
ON THE ORIGIN OF THE NEAR-INFRARED EMISSION FROM THE NEUTRON-STAR LOW-MASS X-RAY BINARY GX 9+1*
Authors: van den Berg Maureen , Homan Jeroen
Published: January 2017

We have determined an improved position for the luminous persistent neutron-star low-mass X-ray binary and atoll source GX 9+1 from archival Chandra X-ray Observatory data. The new position significantly differs from a previously published Chandra position for this source. Based on the revised X-ray position we have identified a new near-infrared (NIR) counterpart to GX 9+1 in K

s
-band images obtained with the PANIC and FourStar cameras on the Magellan Baade Telescope. NIR spectra of this

mag star, taken with the FIRE spectrograph on the Baade Telescope, show a strong Br γ emission line, which is a clear signature that we discovered the true NIR counterpart to GX 9+1. The mass donor in GX 9+1 cannot be a late-type giant, as such a star would be brighter than the estimated absolute K

s
magnitude of the NIR counterpart. The slope of the dereddened NIR spectrum is poorly constrained due to uncertainties in the column density N
H and NIR extinction. Considering the source’s distance and X-ray luminosity, we argue that N
H likely lies near the high end of the previously suggested range. If this is indeed the case, the NIR spectrum is consistent with thermal emission from a heated accretion disk, possibly with a contribution from the secondary. In this respect, GX 9+1 is similar to other bright atolls and the Z sources, whose NIR spectra do not show the slope that is expected for a dominant contribution from optically thin synchrotron emission from the inner regions of a jet.
Osvaldo Soriano : La crónica del tiempo presente
Authors: Ponce Néstor
Published: January 2017

A sus plantas rendido un león, novela de Osvaldo Soriano publicada en 1986, es representativa de la poética del autor. Juega con la ironía, el humor, pero se refiere a temas políticos de actualidad (el peronismo, la dictadura militar, la guerra de Malvinas, como es el caso en el texto que nos ocupa), con una distancia crítica y satírica que plantea preguntas al lector. El lenguaje de Soriano es apretado, concentrado. Planta una situación y la desarrolla. Narra el horror y nos pone enfrente de los dramas cotidianos.
Unilateral demodicidosis of face mimicking Hansens disease
Authors: Vashisht Deepak , Singh Jatinder , Baveja Sukriti , Tiwari Rohit , Bhatnagar Anuj
Published: January 2017

Demodicosis is a common parasitic infection of the hair follicles and the pilosebaceous unit by the Demodex mites viz. Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis. Infection by this parasite is common among immunocompromised and elderly. We report a case of facial Demodicosis which presented like atypical rosacea with a gradually progressing swelling and redness on right side of face which was initially diagnosed as a case of Hansen’s disease. Skin biopsy revealed follicular dilatation with presence of Demodex mite along with intense perifollicular lymphomononuclear infiltrate. Patient was treated with oral tab Ivermectin 12 mg stat along with topical gel metronidazole twice daily to which he responded favourably.
Enhanced recovery after surgery: Neuroanaesthetic perspective
Authors: Mishra Rajeeb , Kapoor Indu , Mahajan Charu , Prabhakar Hemanshu
Published: January 2017

Enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) is a systematic multimodal perioperative care aimed at reducing the immense surgical stress of the patient and thereby facilitating early recovery. This is basically a multidiscipline, multimodal integrated approach in patient care and it integrates the basic knowledge in a more streamlined fashion, which ultimately improves the outcome of surgery. This article reviews the various aspects of ERAS, and its implementation in neurosurgical practice as some concepts of ERAS may not be applicable in the setting of neurosurgery.
Awareness during anaesthesia for surgery requiring evoked potential monitoring: A pilot study
Authors: Korula Pritish , Mariappan Ramamani , James Justin , Kumar Prashant , Korula Grace
Published: January 2017

Background: Evoked potential monitoring such as somatosensory-evoked potential (SSEP) or motor-evoked potential (MEP) monitoring during surgical procedures in proximity to the spinal cord requires minimising the minimum alveolar concentrations (MACs) below the anaesthetic concentrations normally required (1 MAC) to prevent interference in amplitude and latency of evoked potentials. This could result in awareness. Our primary objective was to determine the incidence of awareness while administering low MAC inhalational anaesthetics for these unique procedures. The secondary objective was to assess the adequacy of our anaesthetic technique from neurophysiologist’s perspective. Methods: In this prospective observational pilot study, 61 American Society of Anesthesiologists 1 and 2 patients undergoing spinal surgery for whom intraoperative evoked potential monitoring was performed were included; during the maintenance phase, 0.7–0.8 MAC of isoflurane was targeted. We evaluated the intraoperative depth of anaesthesia using a bispectral (BIS) index monitor as well as the patients response to surgical stimulus (PRST) scoring system. Post-operatively, a modified Bruce questionnaire was used to verify awareness. The adequacy of evoked potential readings was also assessed. Results: Of the 61 patients, no patient had explicit awareness. Intraoperatively, 19 of 61 patients had a BIS value of above sixty at least once, during surgery. There was no correlation with PRST scoring and BIS during surgery. Fifty-four out of 61 patient’s evoked potential readings were deemed ‘good’ or ‘fair’ for the conduct of electrophysiological monitoring. Conclusions: This pilot study demonstrates that administering low MAC inhalational anaesthetics to facilitate evoked potential monitoring does not result in explicit awareness. However, larger studies are needed to verify this. The conduct of SSEP electrophysiological monitoring was satisfactory with the use of this anaesthetic technique. However, the conduct of MEP monitoring was satisfactory, only in patients with Nurick Grade 1 and 2. The MEP response was poor in patients with Nurick Grade 4 and 5.
Wolff–Parkinson–White syndrome: Implications for an anaesthesiologist
Authors: Udaybhaskar Vinaya , Sreemayee C. , Ingley Prasad
Published: January 2017

Wolff–Parkinson–White (WPW) syndrome is an electrical conduction abnormality of the heart that can induce potentially fatal arrhythmias at intermittent intervals. The induction and maintenance of general anaesthesia for a patient with WPW syndrome are risky due to the triggering capability of arrhythmias by various drugs and instrumentation. We hereby present the case of a 28-year-old male with previous cardiac illness, admitted for neurosurgical procedure, with drug-controlled WPW syndrome. The pre-operative optimisation, intraoperative scrutiny and vigil, along with readiness of standby medications and defibrillator made the ingress and egress from general anaesthesia uneventful. Thus, the potential dangers of WPW syndrome can be circumvented with watchful preparedness and meticulous monitoring.
Contextual and Psychosocial Determinants of Effective Handwashing Technique: Recommendations for Interventions from a Case Study in Harare, Zimbabwe
Authors: Friedrich Max N. D. , Binkert Marc E. , Mosler Hans-Joachim
Published: January 2017

Handwashing has been shown to considerably reduce diarrhea morbidity and mortality. To decontaminate hands effectively, the use of running water, soap, and various scrubbing steps are recommended. This study aims to identify the behavioral determinants of effective handwashing. Everyday handwashing technique of 434 primary caregivers in high-density suburbs of Harare, Zimbabwe, was observed and measured as an 8-point sum score of effective handwashing technique. Multiple linear and logistic regression analyses were performed to predict observed handwashing technique from potential contextual and psychosocial determinants. Knowledge of how to wash hands effectively, availability of a handwashing station with functioning water tap, self-reported frequency of handwashing, perceived vulnerability, and action planning were the main determinants of effective handwashing technique. The models were able to explain 39% and 36% of the variance in overall handwashing technique and thoroughness of handscrubbing. Memory aids and guided practice are proposed to consolidate action knowledge, and personalized risk messages should increase the perceived vulnerability of contracting diarrhea. Planning where, when, and how to maintain a designated place for handwashing with sufficient soap and water is proposed to increase action planning. Since frequent self-reported handwashing was associated with performing more effective handwashing technique, behavior change interventions should target both handwashing frequency and technique concurrently.
Influence of the pfmdr1 Gene on In Vitro Sensitivities of Piperaquine in Thai Isolates of Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Mungthin Mathirut , Watanatanasup Ekularn , Sitthichot Naruemon , Suwandittakul Nantana , Khositnithikul Rommanee , Ward Stephen A.
Published: January 2017

Piperaquine combined with dihydroartemisinin is one of the artemisinin derivative combination therapies, which can replace artesunate–mefloquine in treating uncomplicated falciparum malaria in Thailand. The aim of this study was to determine the in vitro sensitivity of Thai Plasmodium falciparum isolates against piperaquine and the influence of the pfmdr1 gene on in vitro response. One hundred and thirty-seven standard laboratory and adapted Thai isolates of P. falciparum were assessed for in vitro piperaquine sensitivity. Polymorphisms of the pfmdr1 gene were determined by polymerase chain reaction methods. The mean and standard deviation of the piperaquine IC50 in Thai isolates of P. falciparum were 16.7 ± 6.3 nM. The parasites exhibiting chloroquine IC50 of ≥ 100 nM were significantly less sensitive to piperaquine compared with the parasite with chloroquine IC50 of < 100 nM. No significant association between the pfmdr1 copy number and piperaquine IC50 values was found. In contrast, the parasites containing the pfmdr1 86Y allele exhibited significantly reduced piperaquine sensitivity. Before nationwide implementation of dihydroartemisinin–piperaquine as the first-line treatment in Thailand, in vitro and in vivo evaluations of this combination should be performed especially in areas where parasites containing the pfmdr1 86Y allele are predominant such as the Thai–Malaysian border.
Adaptive Diversification Between Yellow Fever Virus West African and South American Lineages: A Genome-Wide Study
Authors: Li Yan , Yang Zexiao
Published: January 2017

Yellow fever virus (YFV) has emerged as the causative agent of a vector-borne disease with devastating mortality in the tropics of Africa and the Americas. YFV phylogenies indicate that the isolates collected from West Africa, East and Central Africa, and South America cluster into different lineages and the virus spread into the Americas from Africa. To determine the nature of genetic variation accompanying the intercontinental epidemic, we performed a genome-wide evolutionary study on the West African and South American lineages of YFV. Our results reveal that adaptive genetic diversification has occurred on viral nonstructural protein 5 (NS5), which is crucially required for viral genome replication, in the early epidemic phase of these currently circulating lineages. Furthermore, major amino acid changes relevant to the adaptive diversification generally cluster in different structural regions of NS5 in a lineage-specific manner. These results suggest that YFV has experienced adaptive diversification in the epidemic spread between the continents and shed insights into the genetic determinants of such diversification, which might be beneficial for understanding the emergence and re-emergence of yellow fever as an important global public health issue.
Recrudescence of Plasmodium falciparum in a Primigravida After Nearly 3 Years of Latency
Authors: Al Hammadi Ahmed , Mitchell Michael , Abraham George M. , Wang Jennifer P.
Published: January 2017

We present a case of a primigravid woman who presented with Plasmodium falciparum nearly 3 years after she last visited a malaria-endemic region. We review the literature to identify case reports of recrudescent P. falciparum malaria during pregnancy, including those with prolonged latency. Reports of recrudescence of P. falciparum during pregnancy are limited. Plasmodium falciparum infection can persist for years. Recrudescence can occur with waning of immunity following departure from endemic areas. Pregnancy, particularly the primigravid state, is a risk factor for severe infection.
The Use of Confessionary Evidence under the Counter-Terrorism Laws of Sri Lanka
Authors: Chandrasekaram Visakesa
Published: January 2017

For more than three decades, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) fought a gruesome war for independence against the majoritarian Sinhalese government of Sri Lanka. Even as the government fought LTTE on the battlefield, it also pursued a legal war through the enactment of counterterrorism laws that permitted indefinite detention and the use of confessions as sole evidence. This book applies theoretical insights from the work of philosophers such as Carl Schmitt, Giorgio Agamben, and Michel Foucault to the Sri Lankan context to examine the conflicting narratives relating to these laws produced by both sides in the conflict.
Study of the footprints of short-term variation in XCO2 observed by TCCON sites using NIES and FLEXPART atmospheric transport models
Authors: Belikov Dmitry A. , Maksyutov Shamil , Ganshin Alexander , Zhuravlev Ruslan , Deutscher Nicholas M. , Wunch Debra , Feist Dietrich G. , Morino Isamu , Parker Robert J. , Strong Kimberly , Yoshida Yukio , Bril Andrey , Oshchepkov Sergey , Boesch Hartmut , Dubey Manvendra K. , Griffith David , Hewson Will , Kivi Rigel , Mendonca Joseph , Notholt Justus , Schneider Matthias , Sussmann Ralf , Velazco Voltaire A. , Aoki Shuji
Published: January 2017

Abstract. The Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON) is a network of ground-based Fourier transform spectrometers (FTSs) that record near-infrared (NIR) spectra of the sun. From these spectra, accurate and precise observations of CO2 column-averaged dry-air mole fractions (denoted XCO2) are retrieved. TCCON FTS observations have previously been used to validate satellite estimations of XCO2; however, our knowledge of the short-term spatial and temporal variations in XCO2 surrounding the TCCON sites is limited. In this work, we use the National Institute for Environmental Studies (NIES) Eulerian three-dimensional transport model and the FLEXPART (FLEXible PARTicle dispersion model) Lagrangian particle dispersion model (LPDM) to determine the footprints of short-term variations in XCO2 observed by operational, past, future and possible TCCON sites. We propose a footprint-based method for the collocation of satellite and TCCON XCO2 observations and estimate the performance of the method using the NIES model and five GOSAT (Greenhouse Gases Observing Satellite) XCO2 product data sets. Comparison of the proposed approach with a standard geographic method shows a higher number of collocation points and an average bias reduction up to 0.15 ppm for a subset of 16 stations for the period from January 2010 to January 2014. Case studies of the Darwin and Reunion Island sites reveal that when the footprint area is rather curved, non-uniform and significantly different from a geographical rectangular area, the differences between these approaches are more noticeable. This emphasises that the collocation is sensitive to local meteorological conditions and flux distributions.
Modeling biogenic and anthropogenic secondary organic aerosol in China
Authors: Hu Jianlin , Wang Peng , Ying Qi , Zhang Hongliang , Chen Jianjun , Ge Xinlei , Li Xinghua , Jiang Jingkun , Wang Shuxiao , Zhang Jie , Zhao Yu , Zhang Yingyi
Published: January 2017

Abstract. A revised Community Multi-scale Air Quality (CMAQ) model with updated secondary organic aerosol (SOA) yields and a more detailed description of SOA formation from isoprene oxidation was applied to study the spatial and temporal distribution of SOA in China in the entire year of 2013. Predicted organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon and volatile organic compounds agreed favorably with observations at several urban areas, although the high OC concentrations in wintertime in Beijing were under-predicted. Predicted summer SOA was generally higher (10–15 µg m−3) due to large contributions of isoprene (country average, 61 %), although the relative importance varies in different regions. Winter SOA was slightly lower and was mostly due to emissions of alkane and aromatic compounds (51 %). Contributions of monoterpene SOA was relatively constant (8–10 %). Overall, biogenic SOA accounted for approximately 75 % of total SOA in summer, 50–60 % in autumn and spring, and 24 % in winter. The Sichuan Basin had the highest predicted SOA concentrations in the country in all seasons, with hourly concentrations up to 50 µg m−3. Approximately half of the SOA in all seasons was due to the traditional equilibrium partitioning of semivolatile components followed by oligomerization, while the remaining SOA was mainly due to reactive surface uptake of isoprene epoxide (5–14 %), glyoxal (14–25 %) and methylglyoxal (23–28 %). Sensitivity analyses showed that formation of SOA from biogenic emissions was significantly enhanced due to anthropogenic emissions. Removing all anthropogenic emissions while keeping the biogenic emissions unchanged led to total SOA concentrations of less than 1 µg m−3, which suggests that manmade emissions facilitated biogenic SOA formation and controlling anthropogenic emissions would result in reduction of both anthropogenic and biogenic SOA.
WRF-Chem model simulations of a dust outbreak over the central Mediterranean and comparison with multi-sensor desert dust observations
Authors: Rizza Umberto , Barnaba Francesca , Miglietta Mario Marcello , Mangia Cristina , Di Liberto Luca , Dionisi Davide , Costabile Francesca , Grasso Fabio , Gobbi Gian Paolo
Published: January 2017

Abstract. In this study, the Weather Research and Forecasting model with online coupled chemistry (WRF-Chem) is applied to simulate an intense Saharan dust outbreak event that took place over the Mediterranean in May 2014. Comparison of a simulation using a physics-based desert dust emission scheme with a numerical experiment using a simplified (minimal) emission scheme is included to highlight the advantages of the former. The model was found to reproduce well the synoptic meteorological conditions driving the dust outbreak: an omega-like pressure configuration associated with a cyclogenesis in the Atlantic coasts of Spain. The model performances in reproducing the atmospheric desert dust load were evaluated using a multi-platform observational dataset of aerosol and desert dust properties, including optical properties from satellite and ground-based sun photometers and lidars, plus in situ particulate matter mass concentration (PM) data. This comparison allowed us to investigate the model ability in reproducing both the horizontal and the vertical displacement of the dust plume, as well as its evolution in time. The comparison with satellite (MODIS-Terra) and sun photometers (AERONET) showed that the model is able to reproduce well the horizontal field of the aerosol optical depth (AOD) and its evolution in time (temporal correlation coefficient with AERONET of 0.85). On the vertical scale, the comparison with lidar data at a single site (Rome, Italy) confirms that the desert dust advection occurs in several, superimposed "pulses" as simulated by the model. Cross-analysis of the modeled AOD and desert dust emission fluxes further allowed for the source regions of the observed plumes to be inferred. The vertical displacement of the modeled dust plume was in rather good agreement with the lidar soundings, with correlation coefficients among aerosol extinction profiles up to 1 and mean discrepancy of about 50 %. The model–measurement comparison for PM10 and PM2.5 showed a good temporal matching, although it revealed a marked overestimation of PM10 and PM2.5 (of the order of 70 % during the dust peak). For PM10, it was also possible to investigate the accordance between the model- and the measurement-based dust PM10, this confirming the model PM10 overestimation to be related to over-predicted dust mass up to a factor of 140 %. In all the model–measurement comparisons performed, the enhanced capabilities of the physics-based emission scheme with respect to its simplified, minimal version were evident and are documented.
Technical note: Boundary layer height determination from Lidar for improving air pollution episode modelling: development of new algorithm and evaluation
Authors: Yang Ting , Wang Zifa , Zhang Wei , Gbaguidi Alex , Sugimoto Nubuo , Wang Xiquan , Matsui Ichiro , Sun Yele
Published: January 2017

Abstract. Predicting air pollution events in low atmosphere over megacities requires thorough understanding of the tropospheric dynamic and chemical processes, involving notably, continuous and accurate determination of the boundary layer height (BLH). Through intensive observations experimented over Beijing (China), and an exhaustive evaluation existing algorithms applied to the BLH determination, persistent critical limitations are noticed, in particular over polluted episodes. Basically, under weak thermal convection with high aerosol loading, none of the retrieval algorithms is able to fully capture the diurnal cycle of the BLH due to pollutant insufficient vertical mixing in the boundary layer associated with the impact of gravity waves on the tropospheric structure. Subsequently, a new approach based on gravity wave theory (the cubic root gradient method: CRGM), is developed to overcome such weakness and accurately reproduce the fluctuations of the BLH under various atmospheric pollution conditions. Comprehensive evaluation of CRGM highlights its high performance in determining BLH from Lidar. In comparison with the existing retrieval algorithms, the CRGM potentially reduces related computational uncertainties and errors from BLH determination (strong increase of correlation coefficient from 0.44 to 0.91 and significant decrease of the root mean square error from 643 m to 142 m). Such newly developed technique is undoubtedly expected to contribute to improve the accuracy of air quality modelling and forecasting systems.