bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Stakeholders in Urban Regeneration Projects. Case Study: Baia-Mare, Transylvania
Authors: Rădulescu Corina , Ştefan Ovidiu , Rădulescu Gheorghe , Rădulescu Adrian , Rădulescu Mihai
Published: March 2016

The process of regeneration of abandoned areas or deteriorated structures in the cities of Romania has become a strategy of urban-integrated development. Conversions and/or regeneration of facilities in the form of assets, with different destinations, are part of the new trend of urban regeneration and a strategy used to attract investment capital. The disappearance of mining industry sites in Maramures County, Romania, has allowed the expansion and planning of new spaces for public use and/or semipublic, and most cities have opened new development perspectives. The study is based on empirical research conducted on the brownfields of Baia-Mare City. This research investigates how stakeholders of an urban regeneration project can be more actively involved in the decision-making processes with regard to the strategic elements of the renewal project of Cuprom, as a former mining industry area. This research contributes to the development of the investigation of new types of knowledge of stakeholder analysis and improves the available practices for stakeholder salience. Social networks created and consolidated by stakeholders of an urban regeneration project are the object of analysis, evaluation, and monitoring of the equilibrium between project management and grant of resources and capital. This paper studies the salience of stakeholders of the SEPA-CUPROM project from Baia-Mare using the social networking approach. Visualization by graphical methods of social networking analysis is a useful instrument in the decision-making process of brownfield projects as part of sustainable strategies in Romania.
Assessment of Reservoir Water Quality Using Multivariate Statistical Techniques: A Case Study of Qiandao Lake, China
Authors: Gu Qing , Zhang Yao , Ma Ligang , Li Jiadan , Wang Ke , Zheng Kefeng , Zhang Xiaobin , Sheng Li
Published: March 2016

Qiandao Lake (Xin’an Jiang reservoir) plays a significant role in drinking water supply for eastern China, and it is an attractive tourist destination. Three multivariate statistical methods were comprehensively applied to assess the spatial and temporal variations in water quality as well as potential pollution sources in Qiandao Lake. Data sets of nine parameters from 12 monitoring sites during 2010–2013 were obtained for analysis. Cluster analysis (CA) was applied to classify the 12 sampling sites into three groups (Groups A, B and C) and the 12 monitoring months into two clusters (April-July, and the remaining months). Discriminant analysis (DA) identified Secchi disc depth, dissolved oxygen, permanganate index and total phosphorus as the significant variables for distinguishing variations of different years, with 79.9% correct assignments. Dissolved oxygen, pH and chlorophyll-a were determined to discriminate between the two sampling periods classified by CA, with 87.8% correct assignments. For spatial variation, DA identified Secchi disc depth and ammonia nitrogen as the significant discriminating parameters, with 81.6% correct assignments. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified organic pollution, nutrient pollution, domestic sewage, and agricultural and surface runoff as the primary pollution sources, explaining 84.58%, 81.61% and 78.68% of the total variance in Groups A, B and C, respectively. These results demonstrate the effectiveness of integrated use of CA, DA and PCA for reservoir water quality evaluation and could assist managers in improving water resources management.
DNA Aptamers against Taiwan Banded Krait α-Bungarotoxin Recognize Taiwan Cobra Cardiotoxins
Authors: Chen Ying-Jung , Tsai Chia-Yu , Hu Wan-Ping , Chang Long-Sen
Published: March 2016

Bungarus multicinctus α-bungarotoxin (α-Bgt) and Naja atra cardiotoxins (CTXs) share a common structural scaffold, and their tertiary structures adopt three-fingered loop motifs. Four DNA aptamers against α-Bgt have been reported previously. Given that the binding of aptamers with targeted proteins depends on structural complementarity, in this study, we investigated whether DNA aptamers against α-Bgt could also recognize CTXs. It was found that N. atra cardiotoxin 3 (CTX3) reduced the electrophoretic mobility of aptamers against α-Bgt. Analysis of the changes in the fluorescence intensity of carboxyfluorescein-labeled aptamers upon binding toxin molecules revealed that CTX3 and α-Bgt could bind the tested aptamers. Moreover, the aptamers inhibited the membrane-damaging activity and cytotoxicity of CTX3. In addition to CTX3, other N. atra CTX isotoxins also bound to the aptamer against α-Bgt. Taken together, our data indicate that aptamers against α-Bgt show cross-reactivity with CTXs. The findings that aptamers against α-Bgt also suppress the biological activities of CTX3 highlight the potential utility of aptamers in regard to the broad inhibition of snake venom three-fingered proteins.
Combined DECS Analysis and Next-Generation Sequencing Enable Efficient Detection of Novel Plant RNA Viruses
Authors: Yanagisawa Hironobu , Tomita Reiko , Katsu Koji , Uehara Takuya , Atsumi Go , Tateda Chika , Kobayashi Kappei , Sekine Ken-Taro
Published: March 2016

The presence of high molecular weight double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) within plant cells is an indicator of infection with RNA viruses as these possess genomic or replicative dsRNA. DECS (dsRNA isolation, exhaustive amplification, cloning, and sequencing) analysis has been shown to be capable of detecting unknown viruses. We postulated that a combination of DECS analysis and next-generation sequencing (NGS) would improve detection efficiency and usability of the technique. Here, we describe a model case in which we efficiently detected the presumed genome sequence of Blueberry shoestring virus (BSSV), a member of the genus Sobemovirus, which has not so far been reported. dsRNAs were isolated from BSSV-infected blueberry plants using the dsRNA-binding protein, reverse-transcribed, amplified, and sequenced using NGS. A contig of 4,020 nucleotides (nt) that shared similarities with sequences from other Sobemovirus species was obtained as a candidate of the BSSV genomic sequence. Reverse transcription (RT)-PCR primer sets based on sequences from this contig enabled the detection of BSSV in all BSSV-infected plants tested but not in healthy controls. A recombinant protein encoded by the putative coat protein gene was bound by the BSSV-antibody, indicating that the candidate sequence was that of BSSV itself. Our results suggest that a combination of DECS analysis and NGS, designated here as “DECS-C,” is a powerful method for detecting novel plant viruses.
Monuments funéraires des XIIIème, XIVème, XVème et XVIème siècles à Lille et dans ses environs immédiats
Authors: Oursel Hervé
Published: March 2016

A partir des descriptions de VEpigraphie du Nord et de quelques autres documents, il est possible de se faire une idée assez précise d'une partie importante des 471 monuments funéraires dénombrés à Lille et dans les agglomérations contiguè's pour la période gothique. Les lames de cuivre avec un dessin gravé en creux représentent environ un tiers de ceux que l'on peut identifier. On y voit les défunts soit en pied soit agenouillés devant une figure de dévotion (Vierge à l'Enfant, Christ en croix, Sainte Trinité). La même iconographie se retrouve dans les tombeaux taillés en ronde bosse ou en simple relief dans la pierre de Tournai, la pierre blanche du pays ou même le marbre, mais certains de ces monuments sculptés offraient une figuration tout à fait exceptionnelle comme le cortège funèbre (seigneur de Lannoy 1 1492). Enfin, d'autres épitaphes consistaient en verrières ou tableaux peints.
Le forum de Bavay. Campagne de fouilles 1991
Authors: Loridant Frédéric , Bloemendaal Laura , Duflot Laurent
Published: March 2016

La campagne de fouilles 1991 sur le forum de Bavay a porté sur le grand portique sud et l'aile sud des cryptoportiques. Dans le portique, on commence à discerner les différents états de construction. Son organisation architecturale reste encore à préciser, mais on sait maintenant qu'il y a eu de profonds remaniements entre le premier état et les suivants. Son occupation tardive est encore très mal connue à cause des nombreuses perturbations récentes. La fouille du dépotoir de l'aile sud des cryptoportique a continué et la datation tardive proposée (fin IVe siècle, Ier tiers du Ve siècle) est confirmée par le matériel découvert (céramique germanique, molettes d'Argonne).
Bavay : le site de la Maison de retraite
Authors: Loridant Frédéric , Bloemendaal Laura
Published: March 2016

En amont de la construction de la future Maison de retraite de Bavay au sud-est de la ville actuelle, une fouille archéologique a été faite sur une surface d'environ 200 m2. Elle a permis de découvrir les fondations d'une partie d'un habitat détruit dans la première moitié du IIIe siècle. Cette chronologie est fournie par la céramique. En comparant la datation proposée pour l'arasement de cet habitat avec d'autres fouilles effectuées en différents points de Bavay (hormis la zone contiguë au forum), il est intéressant de constater qu'il y a une destruction des installations domestiques dès la 1ère moitié du IIIe siècle, sans reconstruction postérieure.
Deux nouveaux Osiris dans le nord de la Gaule
Authors: Bricault Laurent
Published: March 2016

Per toeval werden twee nummievormige Osirisbeelden ontdekt die in 1890 opgegraven werden in de merovingische begraafplaats te Wanquetin (Pas-de-Calais). Men kende daarvoor slechts vijf vondsten in de streek. Een beeldje komt waarschijnlijk uit Beneden-Egypte en kan gedateerd worden in het Late Rijk of in de Ptolemeische periode. Het tweede zou der plaatse kunnen vervaardigd zijn en uit de gallo-romeinse tijd dateren. Zij maken deel uit van de vele aegyptiaca die in merovingische graven in Norman¬ die en Picardie aangetroffen werden. Zij getuigen van de — nu al goed gedokumenteerde — aantrek-kingskracht van de oosterse godsdiensten op de Germaannse volksgroepen die in het Romeinse Rijk binnendrongen. Het magische en beschermende karakter van de Osirisbeelden heeft waarschijnlijk geleid tot hun gebruik als grafgift in de merovingische tijd.
Du billet de congé au carnet d'apprentissage : les archives des livrets d'employés et d'ouvriers (XVIe-XIXe siècle)
Authors: Delsalle Paul
Published: March 2016

Cet article présente d'abord les origines lointaines du livret ouvrier, puis, par une approche typologique, les différents documents liés de près au livret ouvrier.

Ayant déjà consacré diverses études sur ce sujet, nous en dressons ici une synthèse provisoire, en attirant l'attention des historiens et des archivistes sur ce qui constitue, indéniablement, une des plus belles sources d'histoire économique et sociale de la période contemporaine, car chaque livret est un carnet de vie.

Nous mettons d'abord l'accent sur le billet de congé, ancêtre du livret, déjà attesté à la fin du XVIe siècle et non pas créé en 1740, 1749, ou 1781 comme on le pensait.

Nous évoquons ensuite les pièces qui s'y rapportent et l'exploitation qu'on peut en faire. Pour l'histoire économique et sociale, nous insistons surtout sur la possibilité d'études axées sur les profils de carrière. Chemin faisant, à la lumière de travaux récents, nous attirons l'attention sur les nouvelles perspec- tives de recherche. Il serait plus juste d'utiliser le terme «carnet d'employé» ; l'appellation «livret ouvrier» a en effet des conséquences non négligeables sur l'historiographie car beaucoup d'historiens pensent qu'il ne concerne que les ouvriers. Or, il est riche pour la connaissance des domestiques, des servantes, des artisans du bâtiment, etc.
BROADBAND OBSERVATIONS OF THE GAMMA-RAY EMITTING NARROW LINE SEYFERT 1 GALAXY SBS 0846+513
Authors: Paliya Vaidehi S. , Rajput Bhoomika , Stalin C. S. , Pandey S. B.
Published: March 2016

We present the results of our broadband study of the γ-ray emitting narrow line Seyfert 1 (NLSy1) galaxy SBS 0846+513 (z = 0.585). This includes multiband flux variations, γ-ray spectral analysis, broadband spectral energy distribution (SED) modeling, and intranight optical variability (INOV) observations carried out over six nights between 2012 November and 2013 March using the 2 m Himalayan Chandra Telescope and the 1.3 m telescope at Devasthal, India. Multiple episodes of flaring activity are seen in the γ-ray light curve of the source which are also reflected in the observations at lower frequencies. A statistically significant curvature is noticed in the seven years averaged γ-ray spectrum, thus indicating its similarity with powerful flat spectrum radio quasars (FSRQs). Modeling the SEDs with a one-zone leptonic emission model hints that the optical UV spectrum is dominated by synchrotron radiation, whereas inverse Compton scattering of broad line region photons reproduces the γ-ray part of the SEDs. The source was found to be variable on all the six nights of optical observations with a variation of ∼0.3 mag within a single night, coinciding with a high γ-ray activity state. The observed large amplitude INOV clearly indicates the presence of a closely aligned beamed relativistic jet in SBS 0846+513. Our broadband study supports the recent claims in literature that γ-ray emitting NLSy1 galaxies are similar to blazars and constitute the low black hole mass counterparts to FSRQs.
THE MATRYOSHKA DISK: KECK/NIRC2 DISCOVERY OF A SOLAR-SYSTEM-SCALE, RADIALLY SEGREGATED RESIDUAL PROTOPLANETARY DISK AROUND HD 141569A
Authors: Currie Thayne , Grady Carol A. , Cloutier Ryan , Konishi Mihoko , Stassun Keivan , Debes John , Marel Nienke van der , Muto Takayuki , Jayawardhana Ray , Ratzka Thorsten
Published: March 2016

Using Keck/NIRC2

(3.78 μm) data, we report the direct imaging discovery of a scattered-light-resolved, solar-system-scale residual protoplanetary disk around the young A-type star HD 141569A, interior to and concentric with the two ring-like structures at wider separations. The disk is resolved down to ∼0.″25 and appears as an arc-like rim with attached hook-like features. It is located at an angular separation intermediate between that of warm CO gas identified from spatially resolved mid-infrared spectroscopy and diffuse dust emission recently discovered with the Hubble Space Telescope. The inner disk has a radius of ∼39 au, a position angle consistent with north up, and an inclination of i ∼ 56o and has a center offset from the star. Forward modeling of the disk favors a thick torus-like emission sharply truncated at separations beyond the torus’s photocenter and heavily depleted at smaller separations. In particular, the best-fit density power law for the dust suggests that the inner disk dust and gas (as probed by CO) are radially segregated, a feature consistent with the dust trapping mechanism inferred from observations of “canonical” transitional disks. However, the inner disk component may instead be explained by radiation pressure-induced migration in optically thin conditions, in contrast to the two stellar companion/planet-influenced ring-like structures at wider separations. HD 141569A’s circumstellar environment—with three nested, gapped, concentric dust populations—is an excellent laboratory for understanding the relationship between planet formation and the evolution of both dust grains and disk architecture.
SPECTRAL AND IMAGING OBSERVATIONS OF A WHITE-LIGHT SOLAR FLARE IN THE MID-INFRARED
Authors: Penn Matt , Krucker Säm , Hudson Hugh , Jhabvala Murzy , Jennings Don , Lunsford Allen , Kaufmann Pierre
Published: March 2016

We report high-resolution observations at mid-infrared wavelengths of a minor solar flare, SOL2014-09-24T17:50 (C7.0), using Quantum Well Infrared Photodetector cameras at an auxiliary of the McMath-Pierce telescope. The flare emissions, the first simultaneous observations in two mid-infrared bands at 5.2 and

with white-light and hard X-ray coverage, revealed impulsive time variability with increases on timescales of ∼4 s followed by exponential decay at ∼10 s in two bright regions separated by about

. The brightest source is compact, unresolved spatially at the diffraction limit (

at

). We identify the IR sources as flare ribbons also seen in white-light emission at 6173 Å observed by SDO/HMI, with twin hard X-ray sources observed by Reuven Ramaty High Energy Solar Spectroscopic Imager, and with EUV sources (e.g., 94 Å) observed by SDO/AIA. The two infrared points have nearly the same flux density (f

ν
, W m−2 Hz) and extrapolate to a level of about an order of magnitude below that observed in the visible band by HMI, but with a flux of more than two orders of magnitude above the free–free continuum from the hot (∼15 MK) coronal flare loop observed in the X-ray range. The observations suggest that the IR emission is optically thin; this constraint and others suggest major contributions from a density less than about

cm−3. We tentatively interpret this emission mechanism as predominantly free–free emission in a highly ionized but cool and rather dense chromospheric region.
SPATIALLY RESOLVED SPECTROSCOPY OF A BALMER-DOMINATED SHOCK IN THE CYGNUS LOOP: AN EXTREMELY THIN COSMIC-RAY PRECURSOR?
Authors: Katsuda Satoru , Maeda Keiichi , Ohira Yutaka , Yatsu Yoichi , Mori Koji , Aoki Wako , Morihana Kumiko , Raymond John C. , Ghavamian Parviz , Lee Jae-Joon , Shimoda Jiro , Yamazaki Ryo
Published: March 2016

We present high-resolution long-slit spectroscopy of a Balmer-dominated shock in the northeastern limb of the Cygnus Loop with the Subaru high dispersion spectrograph. By setting the slit angle along the shock normal, we investigate variations of the flux and profile of the Hα line from preshock to postshock regions with a spatial resolution of ∼4 × 1015 cm. The Hα line profile can be represented by a narrow (28.9 ± 0.7 km s−1) Gaussian in a diffuse region ahead of the shock, i.e., a photoionization precursor, and narrow (33.1 ± 0.2 km s−1) plus broad (130–230 km s−1) Gaussians at the shock itself. We find that the width of the narrow component abruptly increases up to 33.1 ± 0.2 km s−1, or 38.8 ± 0.4 km s−1 if we eliminate projected emission originating from the photoionization precursor, in an unresolved thin layer (≲4 × 1015 cm at a distance of 540 pc) at the shock. We show that the sudden broadening can be best explained by heating via damping of Alfvén waves in a thin cosmic-ray (CR) precursor, although other possibilities are not fully ruled out. The thickness of the CR precursor in the Cygnus Loop (a soft gamma-ray emitter) is an order of magnitude thinner than that in Tycho’s Knot g (a hard gamma-ray emitter), which may be caused by the different energy distribution of accelerated particles between the two sources. In this context, systematic studies might reveal a positive correlation between the thickness of the CR precursor and the hardness of the CR energy distribution.
First record of Puerulus mesodontus Chan, Ma & Chu, 2013 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Achelata, Palinuridae) from south of Java, Indonesia
Authors: Wardiatno Yusli , Hakim Agus , Mashar Ali , Butet Nurlisa , Adrianto Luky , Farajallah Achmad
Published: March 2016

Three specimens of Puerulus mesodontus Chan, Ma & Chu, 2013 (Crustacea, Decapoda, Achelata, Palinuridae) were collected from Palabuhanratu Bay, southern Java, Indonesia. There is no previous record on the presence of the species in Indonesia. This finding represents the first record of this species in Java, Indonesia, and confirms that the species is present in the Indian Ocean. The morphological characters of the species are described.

This paper contains a new distribution record of a lobster species from Indonesian waters.
Determining the Optimum Material for an Endodontic Prefabricated Parallel Post Using a Sub-Problem Approximation Method
Authors: Helal Wasim M.K. , Shi Dong Yan
Published: March 2016

One of the most widely used techniques in present-day in order to save teeth is endodontic treatment (ET). Nowadays, a post or a dowel is widely used in the tooth treatment process. The aims of the current investigation are to: (1) evaluate the stress distribution surrounding the endodontic prefabricated parallel post (EPPP), gutta-percha, and dentin with six types of post materials, and (2) determine the optimum material of an EPPP. Six post materials: (1) carbon fibre post (CFP), (2) gold (G), (3) gold alloy (GA), (4) titanium (T), (5) titanium alloy (TA), and (6) stainless steel (SS) were selected in the present work. In order to evaluate the stress distribution surrounding the EPPP, gutta-percha, and dentin with different post materials, the finite element analysis (FEA) is adopted. After that, the sub-problem approximation method was used in order to investigate the optimum material of an EPPP. The results obtained indicate that the optimum elastic characteristics for the EPPP, elastic modulus (E), and Poisson’s ratio (υ) equal to 185 GPa and 0.245, respectively.
Degenerative vs Rigidity on Mitral Valve Leaflet Using Fluid Structure Interaction (FSI) Model
Authors: Mohd Adib Mohd Azrul Hisham , Mohd Hasni Nur Hazreen
Published: March 2016

The objectives of this study are to observe the deformation of mitral leaflet in systole condition and compare the rigidity of heart valve leaflet during systole and diastole conditions. Two-dimensional model of the mitral valve leaflet with ventricle were created using fluid structure interaction model in computational simulations. The result shows rigidity of heart valve leaflet always opposite to degeneration and the simulated displacement models corresponded to normal deformation in physical heart valve in systole condition. Modeling simulation techniques are very useful in the study of degenerative heart valve and the findings would allow us to optimize feature and geometries to reduced deformation of heart valve failure.
VSC Adsorption Capability of Layered Double Hydroxide Containing Iron
Authors: Yokogawa Yoshiyuki , Namba Shota , Sano Hiroya , Namba Shota , Fujii Kazuo , Morita Yuki , Hotta M. , Doi Yutaka
Published: March 2016

Most etiology of bad breath is often concerned with gram-negative anaerobic bacteri, and pharmacotherpy using pharmaceutical drugs should be effective but limited, because bacteria at deep periodontal pocket may be sterilized but cannot be washed out and the malodorous compounds remain. The absorbents for the malodorous compound such as volatile sulfur compounds (VSC), hydrogen sulfide (H2S), are expected to prevent the teeth from decaying and peiodontics disease. The VSC adsorption capabilities of layered double hydroxides, of which composition is A1-xBx(OH)2Cx/n·mH2O, where A and B are Mg and Fe ions, and C are carbonate (CO32- : MgFe HTCO3) and chlorine (Cl - : MgFe HTCl) ions in aqueous medium was studied by GC/FPD. The concentration of H2S rapidly decrease to less than 15% for first 1 hours of soaking in H2S water and fell to 0% in 4-5 h when the MgFe HTCO3 and MgFe HTCl were used. The iron ion was not detected in the H2S water after soaking for 18 hours.The MgFe HTCO3 and MgFe HTCl are expected to be likely adsorbent for the fast removal of VSC from the mouth.
Silica Functionalized Magnesium Ferrite Nanocomposites for Potential Biomedical Applications: Preparation, Characterization and Enhanced Colloidal Stability Studies
Authors: Ehi-Eromosele Cyril O. , Ita Benedict I. , Iweala Emeka E.J. , Ogunniran Kehinde O. , Adekoya Joseph A. , Siyanbola Tolutope O.
Published: March 2016

Magnetic nanocomposite material composed of silica coated MgFe2O4 for potential biomedical applications were synthesized by a two-step chemical method including solution combustion synthesis, followed by silica coatings of the ferrite nanoparticles. The effects of silica coatings on the structural, morphological and magnetic properties were comprehensively investigated using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FESEM), energy dispersive absorption x-ray (EDAX), Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetric analysis and differential thermal analysis (TG–DTA) and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The colloidal behaviour of coated MNPs in physiological saline medium like water or phosphate buffer saline (PBS) was also studied by zeta potential measurements. The XRD patterns indicate that the crystalline structure is single cubic spinel phase and the spinel structure is retained after silica coating. Also, after silica coating, the crystallite size (from Scherrer formula) decreases from 53 to 47 nm. The magnetic results show that MgFe2O4 MNPs (bare and silica coated) is ferrimagnetic at room temperature. Zeta potential studies revealed that there is enhanced colloidal stability of MgFe2O4 MNPs after silica coating in aqueous media which is an applicable potential in biomedical applications.
Green Crystallization and Characterization of Copper Oxide (CuO) Nanoparticles Using Anacardium occidentale Shell Liquid and their Biomedical Applications
Authors: Velmurugan P. , Jang S.H. , Hong S.C. , Yi P.I. , Jung E.S. , Park J.S. , Sivakumar S.
Published: March 2016

For the first time, we describe the production of nanocrystalline CuO particles using cashew nut shell liquid (CNSL). The effects of CSNL dosage, reaction duration, and concentrations on copper reduction and nanoparticle formation were studied. The resulting nanoparticles were characterized using TEM, XRD and FTIR analysis. The syntheses of nano-sized CuO NPs were confirmed via TEM and XRD and show the presence of well-dispersed CuO NPs ranging from 15 to 20 nm. The results confirm that CuO nanocrystals have high antibacterial efficacy and hence have great potential in the preparation of drugs against bacteria.
Optoelectronics of Stochiometrically Controlled Palladium Telluride Quantum Dots
Authors: Masikini Milua , Ndangili Peter M. , Ikpo Chinwe O. , Feleni Usisipho , Douman Samantha F. , Sidwaba Unathi , Waryo Tesfaye , Baker Priscilla Gloria Lorraine , Iwuoha Emmanuel Iheanyechukwu
Published: March 2016

Water dispersed PdTe semiconducting nanocrystals were synthesized and stabilised with 3-mercaptopropionic acid (3-MPA). HRTEM studies revealed the formation of spherical nanoparticles of average size ~4 nm with good crystallinity. UV-visible spectral analysis and band gap measurements confirmed that the nanocrystals are indeed semiconductors. This semiconducting characteristic was supported by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) data which gave Bode plots with absolute frequency and a maximum frequency phase angle values of 38.3° and 75°, respectively. Electroanalysis of the film on glassy carbon electrode (GCE) verified the retention of the ability of Pd to adsorb hydrogen on its surface as well as absorb hydrogen within its lattice.
Socio-demographic analysis of Festival Entrepreneurs in South Africa
Authors: Jonker E , Saayman M
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this article is to examine the socio-demographic differences between entrepreneurs at National Arts festivals in South Africa. Language, and specifically Afrikaans, English and African languages, was used as the dependent variable. The Klein Karoo National Arts Festival (KKNK) in Oudtshoorn and the Grahamstown National Arts Festival (GNAF) are the two largest arts festivals in South Africa. The research was conducted by means of a questionnaire survey (N=500). The data from KKNK and GNAF were combined and factor analyses were applied to determine the role and attributes of entrepreneurs. Cross-tabulation analyses were used to illustrate the comparison of language with socio-demographical variables (marital status, qualification, province, family business, personal attributes, business premises and resourcefulness) and the role and attributes of entrepreneurs. In addition, the association of language with independent variables was examined by means of one-way ANOVA for the three language groups. Findings suggest that there are significant differences in festival entrepreneurs from different cultures (languages), especially in terms of socio-demographic variables such as marital status, education, province, business and personal attributes (resourcefulness).

Keywords and phrases: Klein Karoo National Arts Festival, Grahamstown National Arts Festival, festival entrepreneur, factor analysis, cross-tabulation analysis, ANOVA, entrepreneurs, language
The status of strategic planning in Small and Medium Enterprises: Priority of afterthought?
Authors: Thompson Corrinne , Bounds Maria , Goldman Geoff
Published: March 2016

Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are faced will many challenges, and the development of a sound strategy for the SME could define how these challenges are met which, in turn, could mean the difference between success or failure of the enterprise. If a sound strategy is major contributing factor to the success of a small business, but the evidence of sound strategic management (as taught in universities and business schools) is not present in successful SME’s, one could question the way strategic management is conceptualised. The study thus aims to gather a greater understanding of strategic management – and strategy formulation practices in particular – within SME’s. The study employed a qualitative, descriptive design with semi-structured interviews conducted with 12 SME owners in Gauteng. Findings reveal that the majority of participants were in favour of and supported the notion of having a strategy for small and medium enterprises, but none of them made reference to a formal process regarding strategy formation.

Key words: Strategy; strategy formulation, small and medium businesses; planning; qualitative research
Financial management practices in successful Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)
Authors: Wolmarans Hendrik Petrus , Meintjes Quentin
Published: March 2016

Although the success of small, medium and micro enterprises (SMEs) is extremely important for the South African economy, their failure rate is amongst the highest in the world; some researchers estimate as high as 90 percent. Research has shown that the lack of financial management skills and application of financial management practices are some of the biggest factors contributing to SME failure. However, it is not clear from the literature which of these skills and practices are more important than others. This study aims to fill this gap by determining which financial management skills are relevant for successful SMEs. A survey was done on a sample of owner-managers of successful SMEs who had been asked, firstly, whether they performed different financial management practices and, secondly, how frequently they performed these in their companies. The study concludes that practices regarding working capital as well as profitability are much more relevant than those regarding a balance sheet or strategic finance. Similarly, financial practices related to cash flow and decision making are more relevant than those related to planning or analysing. It may be true, due to the high risk and volatile environment of SMEs, as well as the challenges that are often underestimated, that financial practices which academics regard as important are not always implemented by these companies.  This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge as it determines the relative relevance and frequency of use of financial management practices by successful SMEs.

KEY WORDS

Small and medium enterprises, Financial management practices, Successful SMEs, Entrepreneurship education
Autophagy Induction Protects against 7-Oxysterol-induced Cell Death via Lysosomal Pathway and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Yuan Xi-Ming , Sultana Nargis , Siraj Nabeel , Ward Liam J. , Ghafouri Bijar , Li Wei
Published: March 2016

7-Oxysterols are major toxic components in oxidized low-density lipoprotein and human atheroma lesions, which cause lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP) and cell death. Autophagy may function as a survival mechanism in this process. Here, we investigated whether 7-oxysterols mixed in an atheroma-relevant proportion induce autophagy, whether autophagy induction influences 7-oxysterol-mediated cell death, and the underlying mechanisms, by focusing on cellular lipid levels, oxidative stress, and LMP in 7-oxysterol-treated macrophages. We found that 7-oxysterols induced cellular lipid accumulation, autophagy dysfunction, and cell death in the form of both apoptosis and necrosis. Exposure to 7-oxysterols induced autophagic vacuole synthesis in the form of increased autophagy marker microtubule-associated protein 1A/1B-light chain 3 (LC3) and LC3-phosphatidylethanolamine conjugate (LC3-II) and autophagic vacuole formation. This led to an accumulation of p62, indicating a reduction in autophagic vacuole degradation. Importantly, autophagy induction significantly reduced 7-oxysterol-mediated cell death by diminishing LMP and oxidative stress. Moreover, autophagy induction minimized cellular lipid accumulation induced by 7-oxysterols. These findings highlight the importance of autophagy in combating cellular stress, LMP, and cell death in atherosclerosis. Therefore, activation of the autophagy pathway may be a potential therapeutic strategy for prevention of necrotic core formation in atherosclerotic lesions.
The South African Constitutional Court's Use of Foreign Precedent in Matters of Religion: Without Fear or Favour?
Authors: Rautenbach Christa
Published: March 2016

Since its establishment in 1994, the South African Constitutional Court has been quite fearless in its citation of foreign precedents in its reasoning. Compared with that of similar adjudicative institutions elsewhere, the constitutional reasoning of the South African Constitutional Court is still in its infancy, but it has nevertheless earned itself high praise among observers worldwide. The Court has in particular been commended for some ground-breaking and courageous judgments which it handed down without casting either argumentative rigour or judicial self-restraint to the winds. Since its establishment in 1994 the Constitutional Court has cited foreign cases quite extensively. Although these cases deal with all matters of the law, especially human rights issues, the Constitutional Court's use of foreign cases in the area of religion is noteworthy.
Against this background, this contribution remarks on the propensity of the Constitutional Court to look beyond its borders to deals with issues of religion within South Africa. The ultimate question is whether the notion of transjudicialism in the case of religion is detrimental to the reputation of the South African Constitutional Court or whether it is a characteristic of a court which is confident enough that its independence will remain intact in spite of its looking elsewhere for answers.
Procurement Under the Uncitral Model Law: A Southern Africa Perspective
Authors: De la Harpe SP (Stephen) le R
Published: March 2016

In Africa, economic integration, realised through regional integration, is seen as one of the driving factors that will improve the lives of its people. To enable regionalisation, economic growth and to unlock the potential of Africa its infrastructure will have to be improved. Infrastructure will on the whole be realised through public procurement. The stages for opening up procurement markets, referred to by Yukins and Schooner, is discussed and it is concluded that the states in SADC is still in the initial stages of opening its public procurement markets for regional competition. Although COMESA is not yet in full compliance with all four the stages great strides have been made and have elements of all stages been addressed. Because of the influence the Model Law has already played in COMESA, and the rest of Africa, it would be contra productive should SADC not take the same route as COMESA. If regard is had to the four categories of procurement rules that serves as barriers to national procurement markets, as set out by Arrowsmith it is clear that all of these are present in most SADC member states. Also in the case of COMESA these barriers still exist albeit to a lesser extent. What is necessary is a phased approach to address all of these barriers. This will be possible under the UNCITRAL Model Law as the 2011 Model Law does provide for the possibility of complying with international obligations and for states to allow for socio economic objectives in their procurement regimes. There can be little doubt that the 1994 Model Law has already had a marked influence on public procurement regulation in Africa and that the 2011 Model Law will in future continue to do so. Public procurement is essential for economic development and is the integration and harmonisation thereof on a regional basis the first step In this regard SADC, and especially South Africa, has an important role to play.
Cloete Murray v Firstrand Bank Ltd T/A Wesbank [2015] ZASCA 39 (case note)
Authors: Laubscher M
Published: March 2016

AFRIKAANSE OPSOMMING: In die appèlsaak Cloete Murray and another v FirstRand Bank Ltd wat onlangs deur die Appèlhof beslis is, het die benadering tot die interpretasie van wetgewing weereens in die kollig beland. Die hof in hierdie aangeleentheid het benadruk dat die beginpunt as dit kom by die interpretasie van wetgewing, behoort altyd die taal van die spesifieke wetgewing, ordonnansie of bepaling wees. Dit moet gebruik word te same met die konteks waarbinne die wetgewing geskep en gevorm is, asook die doel van die bepaling en die agtergrond waarbinne die bepaling geskep is. Indien die taal van die spesifieke bepaling ŉ onvermoë toon om die betekenis te ondersteun waarvoor geargumenteer word, behoort laasgenoemde nie aanvaar te word nie. Artikel 39(2) van die Grondwet kan ook net gebruik word om die waardes van die Grondwet te ondersteun gedurende wetsuitleg indien dit nie in die proses die taal van die spesifieke bepaling onnodig belas nie. Op grond hiervan het die hof die appellante se argumente vir ŉ wyer interpretasie van artikel 133(1) van die Maatskappywet 71 van 2008 verwerp en beslis ten gunste van die Respondent.

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ENGLISH SUMMARY: The approach to the interpretation of statutes once again received attention in the recent case Cloete Murray and another v FirstRand Bank Ltd which was decided in the Supreme Court of Appeal. The court , in this matter, emphasized the fact that when it comes to the interpretation of statutes, the starting point should always be the specific language of the statute, ordinance or section. This should be used together with the context within which the statute, ordinance or section has been created , as well as the purpose or objective of the statute, ordinance or section , and the background within which the statute, ordinance or section has been created. If the language of the specific statute, ordinance or section reflects an inability to support the specific meaning that is being argued, the latter should not be accepted. Section 39 (2) of the Constitution can also only be used to support and foster the values of the Constitution during interpretation if in the process of interpretation it does not unnecessarily burden the language of the specific statute or section. Based on this approach the court rejected the appellants’ appeal for a wider interpretation of section 133 (1) of the Companies Act 71 of 2008 , and therefore found in favour of the Respondent.
“Corrective Rape" of Lesbians in the Era of Transformative Constitutionalism in South Africa
Authors: Koraan R , Geduld A
Published: March 2016

There have been numerous incidents of “corrective” rape of lesbians in recent years. This article examines the adequacy of the existing South African legal framework to deal with incidents of “corrective” rape against the background of transformative constitutionalism. The various definitions of transformative constitutionalism and an understanding of heteronormativity are explored. The article proceeds to examine “corrective” rape and concludes with suggestions as to how legislation should make provision for “corrective” rape.
Synergy of stereo cloud top height and ORAC optimal estimation cloud retrieval: evaluation and application to AATSR
Authors: Fisher Daniel , Poulsen Caroline A. , Thomas Gareth E. , Muller Jan-Peter
Published: March 2016

Abstract. In this paper we evaluate the impact on the cloud parameter retrievals of the ORAC (Optimal Retrieval of Aerosol and Cloud) algorithm following the inclusion of stereo-derived cloud top heights as a priori information. This is performed in a mathematically rigorous way using the ORAC optimal estimation retrieval framework, which includes the facility to use such independent a priori information. Key to the use of a priori information is a characterisation of their associated uncertainty. This paper demonstrates the improvements that are possible using this approach and also considers their impact on the microphysical cloud parameters retrieved. The Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (AATSR) instrument has two views and three thermal channels, so it is well placed to demonstrate the synergy of the two techniques. The stereo retrieval is able to improve the accuracy of the retrieved cloud top height when compared to collocated Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO), particularly in the presence of boundary layer inversions and high clouds. The impact of the stereo a priori information on the microphysical cloud properties of cloud optical thickness (COT) and effective radius (RE) was evaluated and generally found to be very small for single-layer clouds conditions over open water (mean RE differences of 2.2 (±5.9) microns and mean COD differences of 0.5 (±1.8) for single-layer ice clouds over open water at elevations of above 9 km, which are most strongly affected by the inclusion of the a priori).
Controlled weather balloon ascents and descents for atmospheric research and climate monitoring
Authors: Kräuchi Andreas , Philipona Rolf , Romanens Gonzague , Hurst Dale F. , Hall Emrys G. , Jordan Allen F.
Published: March 2016

Abstract. In situ upper-air measurements are often made with instruments attached to weather balloons launched at the surface and lifted into the stratosphere. Present-day balloon-borne sensors allow near-continuous measurements from the Earth's surface to about 35 km (3–5 hPa), where the balloons burst and their instrument payloads descend with parachutes. It has been demonstrated that ascending weather balloons can perturb the air measured by very sensitive humidity and temperature sensors trailing behind them, particularly in the upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS). The use of controlled balloon descent for such measurements has therefore been investigated and is described here. We distinguish between the single balloon technique that uses a simple automatic valve system to release helium from the balloon at a preset ambient pressure, and the double balloon technique that uses a carrier balloon to lift the payload and a parachute balloon to control the descent of instruments after the carrier balloon is released at preset altitude. The automatic valve technique has been used for several decades for water vapor soundings with frost point hygrometers, whereas the double balloon technique has recently been re-established and deployed to measure radiation and temperature profiles through the atmosphere. Double balloon soundings also strongly reduce pendulum motion of the payload, stabilizing radiation instruments during ascent. We present the flight characteristics of these two ballooning techniques and compare the quality of temperature and humidity measurements made during ascent and descent.
Predicting carbon dioxide and energy fluxes across global FLUXNET sites with regression algorithms
Authors: Tramontana Gianluca , Jung Martin , Camps-Valls Gustau , Ichii Kazuhito , Raduly Botond , Reichstein Markus , Schwalm Christopher R. , Arain M. Altaf , Cescatti Alessandro , Kiely Gerard , Merbold Lutz , Serrano-Ortiz Penelope , Sickert Sven , Wolf Sebastian , Papale Dario
Published: March 2016

Abstract. Spatial-temporal fields of land-atmosphere fluxes derived from data-driven models can complement simulations by process-based Land Surface Models. While a number of strategies for empirical models with eddy covariance flux data have been applied, a systematic intercomparison of these methods has been missing so far. In this study, we perform a cross-validation experiment for predicting carbon dioxide (CO2), latent heat, sensible heat and net radiation fluxes, in different ecosystem types with eleven machine learning (ML) methods from four different classes (kernel methods, neural network, tree methods, and regression splines). We employ two complementary setups: (1) eight days average fluxes based on remotely sensed data, and (2) daily mean fluxes based on meteorological data and mean seasonal cycle of remotely sensed variables. The pattern of predictions from different ML and setups were very consistent. There were systematic differences in performance among the fluxes, with the following ascending order: net ecosystem exchange (R2 < 0.5), ecosystem respiration (R2 > 0.6), gross primary production (R2 > 0.7), latent heat (R2 > 0.7), sensible heat (R2 > 0.7), net radiation (R2 > 0.8). ML methods predicted very well the across sites variability and the seasonal cycle (R2 > 0.7) of the observed fluxes, while the eight days deviations from the mean seasonal cycle were not well predicted (R2 < 0.5). Fluxes were better predicted at forested and temperate climate sites than at ones growing in extreme climates or less representated in training data (e.g. the tropics). The large ensemble of ML based models evaluated will be the basis of new global flux products.
The 1-way on-line coupled model system MECO(n) – Part 4: Chemical evaluation (based on MESSy v2.52)
Authors: Mertens Mariano , Kerkweg Astrid , Jöckel Patrick , Tost Holger , Hofmann Christiane
Published: March 2016

Abstract. For the first time a simulation incorporating tropospheric and stratospheric chemistry using the newly developed MECO(n) model system is performed. MECO(n) is short for MESSyfied ECHAM and COSMO model nested n-times. It features an on-line coupling of the COSMO-CLM model, equipped with the Modular Earth Submodel System (MESSy) interface (called COSMO/MESSy), with the global atmospheric chemistry model ECHAM5/MESSy for Atmospheric Chemistry (EMAC). This on-line coupling allows a consistent model chain with respect to chemical and meteorological boundary conditions from the global scale down to the regional kilometre scale. A MECO(2) simulation incorporating one regional instance over Europe with 50 km resolution and a one instance over Germany with 12 km resolution is conducted for the evaluation of MECO(n) with respect to tropospheric gas-phase chemistry. The main goal of this evaluation is to ensure, that the chemistry related MESSy submodels and the on-line coupling with respect to the chemistry are correctly implemented. This evaluation is a prerequisite for the further usage of MECO(n) in atmospheric chemistry related studies. Results of EMAC and the two COSMO/MESSy instances are compared with satellite-, ground-based- and aircraft in situ observations, focusing on ozone, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide. Further the methane lifetimes in EMAC and the two COSMO/MESSy instances are analysed in view of the tropospheric oxidation capacity. From this evaluation we conclude that the chemistry related submodels and the on-line coupling with respect to the chemistry are correctly implemented. In comparison with observations both, EMAC and COSMO/MESSy, show strengths and weaknesses. Especially in comparison to aircraft in situ observations COSMO/MESSy shows very promising results. However, the amplitude of the diurnal cycle of ground-level ozone measurements is underestimated. Most of the differences between COSMO/MESSy and EMAC can be attributed to differences in the dynamics of both models, which is subject to further model developments.