bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Balancing bulk gas accumulation and gas output before and during lava fountaining episodes at Mt. Etna
Authors: Carbone Daniele , Zuccarello Luciano , Messina Alfio , Scollo Simona , Rymer Hazel 
Published: December 2015

AbstractWe focus on a sequence of 9 lava fountains from Etna that occurred in 2011, separated by intervals of 5 to 10 days. Continuous measurements allowed to discover the occurrence of gravity decreases before the onset of most fountaining episodes. We propose that the gravity changes are due to the pre-fountaining accumulation of a foam layer at shallow levels in the plumbing system of the volcano. Relying on the relationship between amount of gas trapped in the foam and amount of gas emitted during each episode, we develop a conceptual model of the mechanism controlling the passage from Strombolian to lava fountaining activity. Gas leakage from the foam layer during the late stages of its accumulation increases the gas volume fraction at upper levels, thus inducing a decrease of the magma-static pressure in the trapping zone and a further growth of the foam. This feedback mechanism eventually leads to the collapse of the foam layer and to the onset of lava fountaining. The possibility to detect the development of a foam layer at depth and to set quantitative constraints on the amount of trapped gas is important because of the implications for forecasting explosive eruptions and predicting their intensity.
Stanniocalcin-1 inhibits thrombin-induced signaling and protects from bleomycin-induced lung injury
Authors: Huang Luping , Zhang Lin , Ju Huiming , Li Qingtian , Pan Jenny Szu-Chin , Al-Lawati Zahraa , Sheikh-Hamad David 
Published: December 2015

AbstractThrombin-induced and proteinase-activated receptor 1 (PAR1)-mediated signaling increases ROS production, activates ERK and promotes inflammation and fibroblast proliferation in bleomycin-induced lung injury. Stanniocalcin-1 (STC1) activates anti-oxidant pathways, inhibits inflammation and provides cytoprotection; hence, we hypothesized that STC1 will inhibit thrombin/PAR1 signaling and protect from bleomycin-induced pneumonitis. We determined thrombin level and activity, thrombin-induced PAR-1-mediated signaling, superoxide generation and lung pathology after intra-tracheal administration of bleomycin to WT and STC1 Tg mice. Lungs of bleomycin-treated WT mice display: severe pneumonitis; increased generation of superoxide; vascular leak; increased thrombin protein abundance and activity; activation of ERK; greater cytokine/chemokine release and infiltration with T-cells and macrophages. Lungs of STC1 Tg mice displayed none of the above changes. Mechanistic analysis in cultured pulmonary epithelial cells (A549) suggests that STC1 inhibits thrombin-induced and PAR1-mediated ERK activation through suppression of superoxide. In conclusion, STC1 blunts bleomycin-induced rise in thrombin protein and activity, diminishes thrombin-induced signaling through PAR1 to ERK and inhibits bleomycin-induced pneumonitis. Moreover, our study identifies a new set of cytokines/chemokines, which play a role in the pathogenesis of bleomycin-induced lung injury. These findings broaden the array of potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of lung diseases characterized by thrombin activation, oxidant stress and inflammation.
Smartphone data usage: downlink and uplink asymmetry
Authors: Yang Bowei , Guo Weisi , Jin Yanliang , Wang Siyi 
Published: December 2015

Mobile phone usage has changed significantly over the past few years and smartphone data usage is still not well understood on a statistically significant scale. This Letter analyses 2.1 million smartphone usage data values and explore the current wireless downlink–uplink demand asymmetry for different time periods and across different radio access networks. The current data demand over 2G networks remains largely symmetric with strong temporal variations, whereas the demand over 3G networks is asymmetric with surprisingly weak temporal variations is shown here.
V2O5 nanoflowers assembled by nanorods as cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Huang Jianfeng , Qiao Xiaoning , Xu Zhanwei , Ouyang Haibo , Li Jiayin 
Published: December 2015

Three‐dimensional V2O5 nanoflowers (V2O5‐NFs) have been synthesised by a simple two‐step process, with a water bath method and thermal treatment. Each NF with the size of 2–3 μm is assembled by about 2000 nanorods and the diameter of each nanorod is around 80 nm. As cathode material for lithium‐ion batteries, the V2O5‐NFs exhibit high reversible capacities of 293 and 272 mAh g−1 at current densities of 30 and 100 mA g−1. Even at 600 mA g−1, they display a reversible capacity of 105 mAh g−1 with a capacity loss of 0.39% per cycle. The enhanced electrochemical properties are attributed to the self‐assemble nanostructure that allows for the reversible transport of Li+ without the disintegration of the structure.
Climate change vulnerability and adaptation strategies at farm-level: a retrospection.
Authors: Singh N. P. , Byjesh K. , Bantilan C. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

This chapter introduces current and future climatic implication on national, regional and sub-regional agro-socioeconomy. It focuses on the growing recognition of the climate change studies that are being considered inevitable. Authors argue that better understanding and assessment of adaptation and/or coping strategies at farm-level are prerequisite in the long-term development planning of the country or the region towards climate resiliency. The arguments were put forward to emphasize the vital link between agriculture, rural livelihoods and climate in the semi-arid tropics for the majority of the population in Asia and Africa. This chapter confines itself to various discourses on the past and present efforts on assessing impacts, adaptation and vulnerability to climate change particularly in the semi-arid tropics of Asia and Africa. It also discusses the global efforts on improving resilience against climatic risks in agricultural sector and also poor smallholder farmers of the semi-arid tropics. The chapter briefly reviews the current state of knowledge related to farmers' strategies and determinants of decision in the choice of adaptation at farm-level. The chapter further discusses the organization of the book and also identifies potential uses of the book and the audience for whom this information is valuable.
Changing climate - responding to the inevitable.
Authors: Singh N. P. , Byjesh K. , Bantilan C. , Rao V. U. M. , Venkateswarulu B. , Niranjan F. , Jayatilaka W. , Deb U. K. , Ha P. Q. , Suddhiyam P. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

This chapter depicts the trends and future predictions of climate, and current changing patterns of climatic parameters particularly temperature, rainfall and extreme events such as drought that are crucial in the semiarid environment. The trends in extreme events such as droughts, floods, etc., describe the perceptions and aspirations as conceived by the farmers and identifies determinants of adaptation decisions with respect to their livelihood assets, i.e. natural, financial, physical, social and human. This chapter also presents the comprehensive adaptation mapping of households belonging to different asset categories and further discusses, with evidence, the current status and possible trends in these assets contributing to the livelihood of the poor farmers in semi-arid tropics of six countries in Asia (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam and China).
Climate change and food security in Asia and Africa: agricultural futures.
Authors: Nedumaran S. , Jyosthnaa P. , Singh N. P. , Bantilan C. , Byjesh K. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

This chapter presents the regional level (Asia and Africa) projected impacts of climate change on yield, production, prices, net trade of major crops and food security through to 2050. It also presents the modelling framework that integrates the economic, crop and climate models to assess the impact of climate change scenarios and socioeconomic pathways in 2050 at the country level.
Evaluating adaptation options at crop level for climate change in the tropics of south Asia and west Africa.
Authors: Singh P. , Singh N. P. , Nedumaran S. , Bantilan C. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

Crop level adaptations to present and future climate are indispensable to farmers because their livelihood depends on crop-based income. Hence, quantifying impact and adaptation options at the field level is yet another important step in adaptation planning at farm-level. This chapter analyses the impact and plausible adaptations for the major crops of the semi-arid tropical region with illustrations from the selected study sites in Asia and Africa. The calibrated crop simulation models that simulate physical and physiological processes of plant growth were used for this purpose. Finally, the chapter evaluates plausible agronomic and genetic options that have the potential to adapt to climate changes in the tropical environments.
Scoping climate change adaptation strategies for smallholder farmers in East Africa - a multi-dimensional, multi-scenario impact assessment.
Authors: Claessens L. , Antle J. M. , Stoorvogel J. J. , Valdivia R. O. , Thornton P. K. , Herrero M. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

This chapter assesses the characteristics of current and future agricultural systems, land use, agricultural output, output price, cost of production, and farm and household size in response to climate change. This analysis also compared both current and projected future climate (2030), with and without adaptation, and for different socioeconomic scenarios (Representative Agricultural Pathways, RAPs) in two study areas in Kenya. A new approach to impact assessment, the Tradeoff Analysis Model for Multi-Dimensional Impact Assessment (TOA-MD) was adopted for this analysis, which simulated technology adoption and associated economic, environmental and social outcomes in a heterogeneous farm population for a regional impact assessment. These case studies yield new insights into the way that adaptation strategies could improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers operating in the mixed crop-livestock systems in East Africa.
Sustainable land and water management approaches in sub-Saharan Africa: farm-level analysis of climate change mitigation and adaptation from sub-Saharan Africa.
Authors: Ndjeunga J. , Zarafi M. A. , Nikiema A. , Traore P. S. , Amani A. , Mahamane S. , Ibro A. M. , Amadou S. , Nkonya E. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

Climate change is increasingly recognized as a worldwide phenomenon that impacts people's livelihoods in many ways. This is especially important in rural areas where households are heavily dependent on rainfed agriculture and natural resources in general for their livelihoods. Farmers' perception and the household level data were collected and analysed to understand the determinants of adaptation to climate change and the impacts of sustainable land and water management practices on agricultural productivity and climate change vulnerability. Rainfall has been showing a decreasing trend and increased variability so there have been new practices adopted by farmers to minimize the impact. Using the case study of Niger, this chapter explores the question of what drives adaptation to climate change in the region, including the adoption of land and water management practices using econometric analysis. Context-specific policy recommendations were drawn from the results that enhance the adaptation to climate change and reduce vulnerability through integrated land, water and soil management practices.
Sociological significance: enhancing resilience to climate change among communities.
Authors: Singh N. P. , Bantilan C. , Jayatilaka W. , Padmaja R. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

Interesting sociological dimensions of enhancing resilience to climate change among communities were observed for formulating viable policy interventions. This chapter applied a comprehensive approach appealing to principles, methodologies, tools, validation and evaluation techniques for understanding the social dimensions of responses and adaptation to climate change. The analyses were undertaken at the individual and systems level with particular attention to the role of networks. The case studies from India revealed deeper sociological insights on (i) farmers' perceptions of climate change or variability; (ii) binding constraints to adaptation and vulnerability; and (iii) coping mechanisms to enhance their adaptive capacity. Three case studies of the villages of Dokur, Kanzara and Shirapur in the semi-arid regions of India, complemented by comparable observations from three additional villages from the longitudinal Village Level Studies panel data (ICRISAT 2014), highlighted significant findings. The first is that farmers perceive climate variability rather than climate change. Second, the critical constraints are not just the lack of access to financial resources, but that human and social capital as well as institutional and governance challenges are equally binding. Lastly, collective action and institutional arrangements effectively mediate the adaptive capacity and resilience of communities to climate change.
Policy options towards climate resilience: agent-based assessment of farm households in West Africa.
Authors: Wossen T. , Nedumaran S. , Berger T. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

This chapter will present the impacts of farm-level adaptation strategies on farm household income and food security under the changing climate in Northern region of Ghana using a bio-economic modelling approach. The modeling approach captures the heterogeneity of important resources of farm households such as access to credits, irrigation and non-farm income sources under the context of climatic change.
Moving along adaptation pathways toward grass-root resilience: a synthesis.
Authors: Singh N. P. , Bantilan C. , Byjesh K. , Nedumaran S. , Rao V. U. M. , Venkateswarulu B. , Niranjan F. , Jayatilaka W. , Deb U. K. , Ha P. Q. , Suddhiyam P. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

This chapter reports on cross-country evidence from the micro (farm-level) analysis on impacts, adaptation and vulnerability to the ever-rising climate-related risks. It has also identified the common challenges across countries, as well as unique features within regions, countries and continents. The challenges include excessive stress on natural capital, increasing demand for physical and financial resources and social capital. Through extensive data collection and analysis it also identifies deficiencies in future planning and country-specific strategies, policies and programmes. These deficiencies and their implications for the future on the farm households are highlighted comprehensively in these selected countries of Asia and Africa.
Way forward - towards climate resilience.
Authors: Singh N. P. , Bantilan C. , Byjesh K. , Nedumaran S. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract

This chapter sketches out the intervention needs from the evidence evolved from the comprehensive analysis described in the previous chapters. The authors argue that there are innumerable entry points for interventions that should be in place through policies, and programmes to create an enabling environment to adapt effectively among the rural population in the arid and semi-arid tropics. This chapter summarizes the critical areas identified within the sustainable livelihood framework that has to be promoted relentlessly until the very objective of enhancing resilience is achieved. The current policies and support are blanket in nature and they resonate a high disconnect because they are aggregative, top down, highly macro-level approaches. Furthermore, they are often coupled with uncertainties and information gaps, thereby vitiating the mainstreaming of adaptation options that is crucial for these marginal environments of the developing world. A comprehensive policy recommendation will be discussed with reference to contexts of Asia and Africa.
Effects of Low Salinities on Osmoregulation, Growth, and Survival of Juvenile Gulf Killifish
Authors: Ramee Shane , Green Christopher , Allen Peter J 
Published: December 2015

Abstract
The Gulf Killifish Fundulus grandis, a popular baitfish, is a euryhaline fish species native to coastal estuaries of the Gulf of Mexico and the eastern coast of Florida. Established culture methods have relied on a saline water source but such methods have not been widely adapted by the commercial sector. Since this species is highly euryhaline, there is potential for freshwater culture via the utilization of established inland facilities. In order to assess the feasibility of inland culture, changes in Gulf Killifish hypo-osmotic tolerance throughout early growth were evaluated. Gulf Killifish were challenged with low salinity treatments of 0 (freshwater), 2.5, 5.0, and 7.5‰ at 2, 7, and 12 weeks posthatch for 4 weeks to determine growth, survival, gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity, and whole-body Na+ content. Gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity and whole-body ion samples were collected at 0, 2, 14, and 28 d posttransfer (dpt) for each age-group. Results indicated Gulf Killifish at 2 weeks posthatch grew and survived at 2.5‰ as well as at higher salinities, but growth was reduced in freshwater. At 7 and 12 weeks posthatch, freshwater survival and growth rates at 0‰ salinity were comparable with other salinity treatments. Gill Na+,K+-ATPase activity increased in Gulf Killifish that were transferred to freshwater at both 7 and 12 weeks posthatch. Whole-body Na+ content was higher in freshwater 28 dpt in the 2-week-posthatch age-group, and 14 dpt in the 7-week-posthatch age-group. There were few differences in Na+,K+-ATPase activity and whole-body Na+ content between salinity treatments in the 12-week-posthatch age-group. These results suggest Gulf Killifish develop hypo-osmotic tolerance at less than 2 weeks of age posthatch and culture in low salinities including freshwater will be more successful with fish older than 7 weeks of age.
Literal and Spiritual Births: Mary as Mother in Seventeenth-Century Women’s Writing
Authors: Brownlee Victoria 
Published: December 2015

AbstractMindful of the complex position of Christ’s mother, Mary, in post-Reformation Europe, this article examines how two women writers read Mary’s fleshly relationship with Christ. Reading the Bible typologically, Aemilia Lanyer and Dorothy Leigh determine that Mary’s material labor has spiritual consequences, because, in delivering Christ, she delivers God’s plan for salvation and inaugurates the new covenant. But, interpreting Marian maternity in this way, Lanyer’sSalve Deus Rex Judaeorumand Leigh’sThe Mothers Blessingalso suggest that the new covenant initiates a form of maternity that has sustained spiritual resonance for all women and has profound implications for the female writer.
Chronic Q-Fever (Coxiella burnetii) Causing Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm and Lumbar Osteomyelitis: A Case Report
Authors: Leahey P. Alexander , Tahan Steven R. , Kasper Ekkehard M. , Albrecht Mary 
Published: December 2015

Abstract
Coxiella burnetii is a rare cause of chronic infection that most frequently presents as endocarditis. We report a case of C burnetii causing an infected abdominal aortic aneurysm with contiguous lumbar osteomyelitis resulting in spinal cord compromise. The diagnosis was established by serologic studies consistent with chronic Q-fever (ratio of C burnetii immunoglobulin [Ig]G phase II titer to IgG phase I titer &lt;1) and was confirmed by positive C burnetii polymerase chain reaction of vertebral tissue in addition to pathology of vertebral bone showing intracellular Gram-negative coccobacillary bacteria. The patient clinically improved after surgical decompression and prolonged treatment with doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine.
Acute Flaccid Paralysis: The New, The Old, and The Preventable
Authors: Macesic N. , Hall V. , Mahony A. , Hueston L. , Ng G. , Macdonell R. , Hughes A. , Fitt G. , Grayson M. L. 
Published: December 2015

Abstract
Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) has a changing epidemiology with ongoing polio outbreaks and emerging causes such as nonpolio enteroviruses and West Nile virus (WNV). We report a case of AFP from the Horn of Africa that was initially classified as probable polio but subsequently found to be due to WNV.
Healthcare Workers' Attitudes Toward Patients With Ebola Virus Disease in The United States
Authors: Narasimhulu Deepa Maheswari , Edwards Vernee , Chazotte Cynthia , Bhatt Devika , Weedon Jeremy , Minkoff Howard 
Published: December 2015

Abstract
Background.  We assessed healthcare workers' (HCWs) attitudes toward care of patients with Ebola virus disease (EVD).
Methods.  We provided a self-administered questionnaire-based cross-sectional study of HCWs at 2 urban hospitals.
Results.  Of 428 HCWs surveyed, 25.1% believed it was ethical to refuse care to patients with EVD; 25.9% were unwilling to provide care to them. In a multivariate analysis, female gender (32.9% vs 11.9%; odds ratio [OR], 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.4–7.7), nursing profession (43.6% vs 12.8%; OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.4–5.2), ethical beliefs about refusing care to patients with EVD (39.1% vs 21.3%; OR, 3.71; 95% CI, 2.0–7.0), and increased concern about putting family, friends, and coworkers at risk (28.2% vs 0%; P = .003; OR, 11.1) were independent predictors of unwillingness to care for patients with EVD. Although beliefs about the ethics of refusing care were independently associated with willingness to care for patients with EVD, 21.3% of those who thought it was unethical to refuse care would be unwilling to care for patients with EVD. Healthcare workers in our study had concerns about potentially exposing their families and friends to EVD (90%), which was out of proportion to their degree of concern for personal risk (16.8%).
Conclusion.  Healthcare workers' willingness to care for patients with Ebola patients did not precisely mirror their beliefs about the ethics of refusing to provide care, although they were strongly influenced by those beliefs. Healthcare workers may be balancing ethical beliefs about patient care with beliefs about risks entailed in rendering care and consequent risks to their families. Providing a safe work environment and measures to reduce risks to family, perhaps by arranging child care or providing temporary quarters, may help alleviate HCW's concerns.