bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using a Family History Questionnaire to Identify Adult Patients with Increased Genetic Risk for Sarcoma
Authors: Schiavi A. , Lavigne J. , Turcotte R. , Kasprzak L. , Dumas N. , Chong G. , Freeman C. , Alameldin M. , Galiatsatos P. , Palma L. , Foulkes W.D.
Published: October 2015

Background: Sarcomas in adults can be associated with hereditary cancer syndromes characterized by early-onset predisposition to numerous types of cancer. Because of variability in familial presentation and the largely unexplained genetic basis of sarcomas, ascertainment of patients for whom a genetics evaluation is most indicated poses challenges. We assessed the utility of a Sarcoma Clinic Genetic Screening (scgs) questionnaire in facilitating that task. Methods: Between 2008 and 2012, 169 patients (median age: 53 years; range: 17–88 years) completed a self-administered scgs questionnaire. A retrospective chart review was completed for all respondents, and descriptive statistics were reported. Probands were divided into two groups depending on whether they did or did not report a family history of Li–Fraumeni syndrome–type cancers. Results: A family history of cancer (as far as 3rd-degree relatives) was reported in 113 of 163 sarcoma patients (69%). Eeles Li–Fraumeni–like (lfl) criteria were fulfilled in 46 probands (28%), Chompret lfl in 21 (13%), Birch lfl in 8 (5%), and classic Li–Fraumeni in none. In the 10 probands tested for TP53 mutations, 1 pathogenic mutation was found. Further investigation of selected families led to the discovery of germline mutations in MLH1, MSH2, and APC genes in 3 individuals. Conclusions: The scgs questionnaire was useful for ascertaining probands with sarcoma who could benefit from a genetic assessment. The tool allowed us to identify high-risk families fitting the criteria for lfl and, surprisingly, other hereditary cancer syndromes. Similar questionnaires could be used in other cancer-specific clinics to increase awareness of the genetic component of these cancers.
Imatinib for Highly Chemoresistant Kaposi Sarcoma in a Patient with Long-Term HIV Control: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Cao W. , Vyboh K. , Routy B. , Chababi-Atallah M. , Lemire B. , Routy J.P.
Published: October 2015

Kaposi sarcoma (ks) is a vascular tumour caused by oncogenic human herpesvirus type 8; it often occurs with hiv-associated immunosuppression. Numerous cellular signalling pathways are involved in the pathogenesis of ks, among which receptor tyrosine kinases such as the c-Kit and platelet-derived growth factor receptors play an important role. Imatinib mesylate, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, has resulted in partial regression of ks lesions in one third of treated patients, but its mechanism of action remains unclear. Here, we report the case of a white man with recurrent ks despite well-suppressed hiv infection and multiple chemotherapies who received imatinib and showed a complete and sustained tumour response. To our knowledge, this report is the first showing the value of imatinib in the management of ks in the context of long-lasting hiv control with adequate quantitative CD4 recovery. Our case indicates that imatinib can be a treatment option for highly chemoresistant recurrent ks in patients on long-term antiretroviral therapy.
Current Definition of Locally Advanced Breast Cancer
Authors: Garg Pankaj Kumar , Prakash Gaurav
Published: October 2015

We read the article “Concurrent chemoradiotherapy for locally advanced breast cancer—time for a new paradigm?” by Mandilaras et al. [...]
Determinants of worldwide software piracy losses
Authors: GOMES Nicolas Dias , CERQUEIRA Pedro André , ALÇADA-ALMEIDA Luís
Published: October 2015

This paper studies the determinants of software piracy losses along five major macro­economic dimensions: Technological, Educational, Institutional, Access to Information and Labor force. The study was conducted based on a large dataset available from 1995 to 2010 and comprising 81 countries. As for the Technological dimension, more patents by residents increases piracy losses while the effect of R&D is the opposite (decreases piracy losses). In terms of the Educational dimension, the results show that more spending on education increase the piracy losses but, at the same time, more schooling years have the contrary effect. Concerning the Institutional dimension, nations with less corruption have lower piracy levels. Regarding the Access to Information, it seems that access to Internet diminishes the losses while the share of Internet broadband subscriptions has no effect. The results also show that, regarding the Labor dimension, employment in services has a deterrent effect while labor force with higher education and youth unemployment increases piracy losses.
Les mécanismes d’interpellation, de rétention et d’expulsion des migrants en situation irrégulière
Authors: Tounkara Mamoutou
Published: October 2015

Les expulsions de France des migrants maliens en situation irrégulière ne datent pas d’aujourd’hui, puisqu’en 1986, Charles Pasqua ministre de l’intérieur en a expulsé 101 par vol charter. Les expulsés sont restés trop longtemps dans l’anonymat sans que les chercheurs, notamment des sciences sociales ne s’intéressent à leurs vécus, raison pour laquelle, cet article se propose de leur donner la parole. Les sans-papiers maliens vivent dans la peur au quotidien d’une interpellation, voire une expulsion vers leur pays d’origine. Ainsi, ils cherchent par tous les moyens à connaître les failles du système afin de prolonger leur séjour en France. Cela reste une incertitude dans la mesure où la France tente elle aussi de réduire le nombre de clandestins sur son territoire. Les intérêts étant antagonistes, chacun développe des stratégies pour l’atteinte de ses objectifs.
L’heure juste sur la dette du gouvernement du Québec
Authors: Deslauriers Jonathan , Gagné Robert , Paré Jonathan
Published: October 2015

Au Québec, ce n’est pas tant l’ampleur de la dette du gouvernement qui est en cause, même s’il y a matière à s’inquiéter, mais plutôt le contexte dans lequel la dette a été contractée. Dans une étude portant sur la problématique de la dette du gouvernement du Québec, le Centre sur la productivité et la prospérité de HEC Montréal démontre que la récurrence des déficits budgétaires crée une spirale d’endettement qui a des conséquences particulièrement néfastes sur les finances publiques de la province.
La gestion des conflits
Authors: Poitras Jean
Published: October 2015

Tout comme dans la vie amoureuse, il arrive parfois que les partenaires d’une collaboration professionnelle vivent des désaccords. On a beau partager le même objectif, on ne peut pas toujours être sur la même longueur d’onde. Comme dans tout couple, le succès d’une collaboration réside dans l’art de réussir à traverser ensemble les moments difficiles. En effet, si on ne désamorce pas rapidement les conflits, la collaboration peut stagner, voire achopper. Voici donc quelques conseils qui vous permettront d’agir avant que les situations ne s’enveniment.
Categorization of Plant and Insect Species via Shape Analysis
Authors: Zhao Haifeng , Wang Jiangtao , Yang Wankou
Published: October 2015

This chapter presents a graph-based approach to automatically categorize plant and insect species. In this approach, the plant leaf and insect objects are segmented from the background semi-automatically. For each object, the contour is then extracted, so that the contour points are used to form the vertices of a graph. We propose a vectorization method to recover clique histogram vectors from the graphs for classification. The clique histogram represents the distribution of one vertex with respect to its adjacent vertices. This treatment permits the use of a codebook approach to represent the graph in terms of a set of codewords that can be used for purposes of support vector machine classification. The experimental results show that the method is not only effective but also robust, and comparable with other methods in the literature for species recognition.
The Trend of Mobile Malwares and Effective Detection Techniques
Authors: Adebayo Olawale Surajudeen , Aziz Normaziah Abdul
Published: October 2015

The usefulness of mobile phones nowadays has gone beyond making calls and sending text messages. In fact, most of applications available on desktop computer are presently easily accessible on mobile devices, especially smartphone based on Androids, iOS, and Windows phone platforms. However, at the same time, malware is increasingly becoming pervasive on a mobile platform for financial, social and political exploitation. This chapter examines the trends of mobile malware and different efforts of anti-malware writers and researchers in addressing mobile malware on smartphones.
The SOAR Strategies for Online Academic Research
Authors: Knox Carolyn Harper , Anderson-Inman Lynne , Terrazas-Arellanes Fatima E. , Walden Emily Deanne , Hildreth Bridget
Published: October 2015

Students often struggle when conducting research online, an essential skill for meeting the Common Core State Standards and for success in the real world. To meet this instructional challenge, researchers at the University of Oregon's Center for Advanced Technology in Education (CATE) developed, tested, and refined nine SOAR Strategies for Online Academic Research. These strategies are aligned with well-established, research-based principles for teaching all students, with particular attention to the instructional needs of students with learning disabilities. To support effective instruction of the SOAR Strategies, researchers at CATE developed a multimedia website of instructional modules called the SOAR Toolkit. This chapter highlights the real world importance of teaching middle school students to conduct effective online research. In addition, it describes the theoretical and historical foundations of the SOAR Strategies, instructional features of the SOAR Toolkit, and research results from classroom implementations at the middle school level.
The Value of Metacognition and Reflectivity in Computer-Based Learning Environments
Authors: Elzarka Sammy , Beltran Valerie , Decker Jessica C. , Matzaganian Mark , Walker Nancy T.
Published: October 2015

The purposes of this chapter are threefold: to explore the research on and relationships among metacognition, reflection, and self-regulated learning; to analyze students' experiences with metacognition, reflection, and self-regulated learning activities in computer-based learning (CBL) courses; and to provide strategies that can be used in a CBL environment to promote students' metacognition, reflection, and self-regulation. A review of underlying frameworks for and prior study findings in metacognition and reflection are presented. Case study findings are also described and form the basis for the suggested strategies. The value and implications of using such strategies are also offered. Finally, future research should address the teaching of metacognition and reflection in CBL environments with an emphasis on real world application.
Equipping Advanced Practice Nurses with Real-World Skills
Authors: Eckardt Patricia , Janotha Brenda , Marino Marie Ann , Erlanger David P. , Cannella Dolores
Published: October 2015

Nursing professionals need to assume responsibility and take initiative in ongoing personal and professional development. Qualities required of nursing graduates must include the ability to, “translate, integrate, and apply knowledge that leads to improvements in patient outcomes,” in an environment in which “[k]nowledge is increasingly complex and evolving rapidly” (American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2008, p. 33). The ability to identify personal learning needs, set goals, apply learning strategies, pursue resources, and evaluate outcomes are essential. Nursing professionals must be self-directed learners to meet these expectations. Team-based learning (TBL) is a multiphase pedagogical approach requiring active student participation and collaboration. Team-based learning entails three stages: (1) individual preparation, (2) learning assurance assessment, and (3) team application activity.
Rich-Media Interactive Simulations
Authors: Tsacoumis Suzanne
Published: October 2015

High fidelity measures have proven to be powerful tools for measuring a broad range of competencies and their validity is well documented. However, their high-touch nature is often a deterrent to their use due to the cost and time required to develop and implement them. In addition, given the increased reliance on technology to screen and evaluate job candidates, organizations are continuing to search for more efficient ways to gather the information they need about one's capabilities. This chapter describes how innovative, interactive rich-media simulations that incorporate branching technology have been used in several real-world applications. The main focus is on describing the nature of these assessments and highlighting potential solutions to the unique measurement challenges associated with these types of assessments.
Animalia
Authors: Bakken Sara , Bielinski John , Johnson Cheryl K. , Rosen Yigal
Published: October 2015

The study described in this chapter is based on a joint World ORT, Israeli Ministry of Education and Pearson initiative to provide an opportunity for international student collaboration on a series of complex science problems. Students from four schools in Israel, three in the United States and one in Mexico, participated in collaborative complex problem-solving on science topics selected by teachers at the participating schools. The intent was to expose students to the realities of collaborating with people under unfamiliar conditions (such as different cultures, languages, and time zones) in order to reach a shared goal, and to foster the value of this practice. The chapter presents the rationale for the project, describes the Animalia mini-course in detail, presents major findings and discusses implications for future curriculum development and further research.
Mitigation of Test Bias in International, Cross-National Assessments of Higher-Order Thinking Skills
Authors: Wolf Raffaela , Zahner Doris
Published: October 2015

The assessment of higher-order skills in higher education has gained popularity internationally. In order to accurately measure the skills required for working in the 21st century, a shift in assessment strategies is required. More specifically, assessments that only require the recall of factual knowledge have been on the decline, whereas assessments that evoke higher-order cognitive skills are on the rise. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss and offer strategies for mitigating bias for a computer-administered performance-based assessment of higher-order skills. Strategies to abate the effects of bias are discussed within the test design and test implementation stages. A case study of a successful adaptation and translation of CAE's Collegiate Learning Assessment (CLA+) is presented to guide the discussion throughout the chapter.
Using Automated Procedures to Generate Test Items That Measure Junior High Science Achievement
Authors: Gierl Mark , Latifi Syed F. , Lai Hollis , Matovinovic Donna , Boughton Keith A.
Published: October 2015

The purpose of this chapter is to describe and illustrate a template-based method for automatically generating test items. This method can be used to produce a large numbers of high-quality items both quickly and efficiency. To highlight the practicality and feasibility of automatic item generation, we demonstrate the application of this method in the content area of junior high school science. We also describe the results from a study designed to evaluate the quality of the generated science items. Our chapter is divided into four sections. In section one, we describe the methodology. In the section two, we illustrate the method using items generated for a junior high school physics curriculum. In section three, we present the results from a study designed to evaluate the quality of the generated science items. In section four, we conclude the chapter and identify one important area for future research.
Automated Scoring of Multicomponent Tasks
Authors: Lorié William
Published: October 2015

Assessment of real-world skills increasingly requires efficient scoring of non-routine test items. This chapter addresses the scoring and psychometric treatment of a broad class of automatically-scorable complex assessment tasks allowing a definite set of responses orderable by quality. These multicomponent tasks are described and proposals are advanced on how to score them so that they support capturing gradations of performance quality. The resulting response evaluation functions are assessed empirically against alternatives using data from a pilot of technology-enhanced items (TEIs) administered to a sample of high school students in one U.S. state. Results support scoring frameworks leveraging the full potential of multicomponent tasks for providing evidence of partial knowledge, understanding, or skill.
Analyzing Process Data from Technology-Rich Tasks
Authors: Keller Lisa , Zenisky April L. , Wang Xi
Published: October 2015

A key task emerging in item analysis is identification of what constitutes valid and reliable measurement information, and what data support proposed score interpretations. Measurement information takes on many forms with computerized tests. An enormous amount of data is gathered from technology-based items, tracing every click and movement of the mouse and time stamping actions taken, and the data recorded falls into two general categories: process and outcomes. Outcomes are traditional scored answers that students provides in response to prompts, but technology-based item types also provide information regarding the process that students used to answer items. The first consideration to the practical use of such data is the nature of the data generated when learners complete complex assessment tasks. The chapter we propose serves to discuss some possible methodological strategies that could be used to analyze data from such technology-rich testing tasks.
Systematic Support for STEM Pre-Service Teachers
Authors: Rogers Reenay R.H. , Winship Jodie , Sun Yan
Published: October 2015

Developing a strong STEM teacher workforce is essential to improve K-12 (kindergarten to 12th grade) STEM education and to strengthen the STEM talent pipeline in the United States. Based on the successful experience in Project Engage, a grant funded by the U.S. Department of Education, this chapter proposes an authentic and sustainable four-pillar STEM professional development model. Grounded on social constructivist and interactive approaches, this professional development model is intended to cultivate STEM pre-service teachers' ability to provide K-12 students with authentic STEM learning experience as defined in the four types of authenticity (i.e., context authenticity, task authenticity, impact authenticity, and personal/value authenticity) identified by Strobel and his colleagues (Strobel, Wang, Weber, & Dyehouse, 2013).
Prospective EFL Teachers' Perceptions of Using CALL in the Classroom
Authors: Rakicioglu-Soylemez Anıl , Akayoglu Sedat
Published: October 2015

The study focuses on prospective English as a foreign language (EFL) teachers' perspectives on the use of Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) resources in teaching English as a foreign language context. In addition to examining prospective teachers' perceptions, the similarities and differences in their perceptions and factors affecting their beliefs about using CALL resources will be addressed. The study aimed to identify the prospective EFL teachers' perceptions of their existing skills to integrate CALL into their future professional practices. The perceived factors that will facilitate and inhibit their future teaching practices by using CALL resources and their expectations from the teacher education program in terms of providing the necessary training to use CALL resources in their teaching practices were examined. The perceived benefits and challenges of using CALL in EFL teaching contexts will be addressed from the participants' perspectives. Finally, the study provides implications for further research in addition to recommendations for EFL teacher education programs.
Improving the Understanding of Climate Change Factors with Images
Authors: Russell Geoff
Published: October 2015

In Australia, the public got its first mass marketing about climate change and the measures that would be required to avoid it, by TV images of black balloons and Professor Tim Flannery turning off light switches. Journalistic coverage has been similarly dominated by household electricity. More technical literature is generally dominated by the concept of “carbon dioxide equivalence” (CO2eq) as spelled out in the Kyoto protocol. This concept isn't used in climate models because it makes no physical sense. The use of CO2eq and the focus on household electricity has lead to a profound mismatch between the causal factors as understood by climate scientists and causal factors as perceived by the public. “The public” here isn't just the general public, but people of many backgrounds with a strong interest in climate change but without the deep knowledge of professional climate scientists. We need images consistent with climate models, which accurately rank the causes of climate change and guide proposed actions. Such images point to meat as a key focal issue.
Environmental Concerns and the Mainstreaming of Veganism
Authors: Pendergrast Nick
Published: October 2015

Increasing awareness about the environmental consequences of consuming animal products together with recognition of animal rights and health benefits, has played a significant role in the rising interest in veganism. The chapter analyses recent trends in veganism in the Western world, focusing on the substantial environmental impact of animal agriculture being highlighted by respected agencies including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and widely read publications such as the Guardian and the New York Times. Growing awareness of the environmental impact of animal products and greater visibility of veganism in the mainstream media have assisted in veganism emerging as an important response to the environmental crisis.
Meat and Dietary Guidelines
Authors: Stanton Rosemary
Published: October 2015

This chapter aims to describe how meat fits into recommended dietary guidelines. In Australia, meat is included in one of the five food groups. However, this food group should not be described as the ‘meat group' as it includes alternative choices. These include animal products such as seafood, poultry and eggs but also plant-based alternatives such as legumes, tofu, nuts and seeds. Choosing a range of foods from within this group contributes to a healthy dietary pattern with nuts, seeds and legumes providing extra benefits. Increasing plant-based choices also makes it easier for those who consume meat to keep to the weekly limit recommended to reduce the risk of health problems associated with a high consumption of red meat. Processed meats are not included in any of the five food groups and are now seen as ‘discretionary' foods.
The Future of Antibiotics and Meat
Authors: Raphaely Talia , Marinova Dora , Marinova Mira
Published: October 2015

This chapter discusses antibiotic use in the livestock industry and potential ramifications for human health. Antibiotics are routinely administered to food animals, primarily at sub-therapeutic levels. The extensive use of antibiotics in global animal husbandry in quantities greater than used for humans is creating antibiotic resistance. There is evidence that antibiotic resistant organisms emerging in food animals transfer to humans through the food chain, environmental contamination, direct association with animals or through mobile resistant genetic elements resulting in co-resistance to other antibiotics. No new classes of antibiotics have been developed since the 1980s. Intensifying use of existing antibiotics for meat production poses new challenges for treating humans, needs to be taken seriously and dealt with urgently. This chapter argues that reduced meat consumption is an under-considered but essential part in any suite of solutions aimed at preserving the use of antibiotics for human treatment.
Meat Myths and Marketing
Authors: Bogueva Diana , Phau Ian
Published: October 2015

This chapter explores how marketing uses the creation and perpetuation of myths to reinforce demand for meat amongst mainstream consumers. It explores advertising misinformation including with regards the place of meat in our culture, its nutritional value, its association with affluence, masculinity and the benefits of small-scale production. The power of marketing is within the context of whether marketing has a role to play in decreasing rather than perpetuating meat-consumption.
A Novel Cloud Intrusion Detection System Using Feature Selection and Classification
Authors: Kannan Anand , Venkatesan Karthik Gururajan , Stagkopoulou Alexandra , Li Sheng , Krishnan Sathyavakeeswaran , Rahman Arifur
Published: October 2015

This paper proposes a new cloud intrusion detection system for detecting the intruders in a traditional hybrid virtualized, cloud environment. The paper introduces an effective feature selection algorithm called Temporal Constraint based on Feature Selection algorithm and also proposes a classification algorithm called hybrid decision tree. This hybrid decision tree has been developed by extending the Enhanced C4.5 algorithm an existing decision tree based classifier. Furthermore, the experiments conducted on the sample Cloud Intrusion Detection Datasets (CIDD) show that the proposed cloud intrusion detection system provides better detection accuracy than the existing work and reduces the false positive rate.
Individual Doctor Recommendation in Large Networks by Constrained Optimization
Authors: Gong Jibing , Cheng Hong , Wang Lili
Published: October 2015

In this paper, the authors try to systematically investigate the problem of individual doctor recommendation and propose a novel method to enable patients to access such intelligent medical service. In their method, the authors first mine doctor-patient ties/relationships via Time-constraint Probability Factor Graph model (TPFG) from a medical social network. Next, they design a constraint-based optimization framework to efficiently improve the accuracy for doctor-patient relationship mining. Last, they propose a novel Individual Doctor Recommendation Model, namely IDR-Model, to compute doctor recommendation success rate based on weighted average method. The authors conduct experiments to verify the method on a real medical data set. Experimental results show that they obtain better accuracy of mining doctor-patient relationship from the network, and doctor recommendation results of IDR-Model are reasonable and satisfactory.
Modification of Polymer Materials by Electron Beam Treatment
Authors: Puhova Irina V. , Rubtsov Konstantin V. , Kurzina Irina , Kazakov Andrei V. , Medovnik Aleksandr V.
Published: October 2015

Electron beam processing is one of the effective methods for modification of surface material properties. Influence of electron beam irradiation on the structure of polymeric materials such as polyvinyl alcohol and polylactic acid was investigated. Electron beam processing was carried out at 8 kV accelerating voltage and a pressure of 3 x 10-2 Torr, the emission current was from 25 to 40 A, the pulse duration was from 150 to 300 μs and the pulse number was from 1 to 10. The elemental composition and the structural state of the surface of irradiated polymer materials were studied by infrared spectroscopy (IR-spectroscopy), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning-electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic-force microscopy (AFM) methods. It was established that certain chemical processes take place and some physicochemical properties change under electron treatment.
Grain Size Effect on the Type VT1-0 Alloy Modified by Aluminum Ion Implantation
Authors: Kurzina Irina , Nikonenko Alisa , Popova Natalja , Nikonenko Elena L. , Kalashnikov Mark
Published: October 2015

The paper presents results of investigations of α-Ti microhardness modified by aluminum ions having diverse grain sizes, namely: 0.3 μm, 1.5 μm, and 17 μm. These investigations show that the decrease of the grain size and the additional ion implantation result in the significant modification of the structural and phase state of the alloy and its mechanical properties.
Integrated Flowsheet for Conversion of Non-Woody Biomass into Polyfunctional Materials
Authors: Budaeva Vera V. , Makarova Ekaterina I. , Gismatulina Yulia A.
Published: October 2015

In order to develop a process to produce polyfunctional materials from easily renewable plant biomass, an integrated flowsheet has been devised on the basis of Russian Miscanthus and oat hulls for the conversion of non-woody raw materials into cellulose, cellulose esters, glucose hydrolyzates, ethanol, and bacterial cellulose by using simple chemical agents, commercially available enzyme complexes, and microorganisms. The basic physicochemical properties of the target products were determined by standard chemical and biotechnological techniques.
Ion-Exchange Separation and Concentration of Ions of Rare-Earth Elements on Fibrous Sorbents
Authors: Bobkova Lyudmila A. , Skvortsova Lidiya N. , Naumova Ludmila B. , Kashkan Galina V.
Published: October 2015

Acid-base properties and selectivity of absorption such ions as REE (Eu3+, Gd3+, Nd3+, Yb3+) from solutions with various ionic force by the fibrous ampholytes PAN-FOSPAN and PAN-IDUC are investigated. PAN-FOSPAN shows the greatest selectivity to ions of REE. This fact can be used for division and the subsequent definition of ions. PAN-IDUC as a high selective fibrous sorbent after alkaline treatment is perspective one for absorption of the REE sum.
Nanostructured Polymetallic Powders to Create New Functional Materials on its Base
Authors: Zaharov Yuriy A. , Pugachev Valeriy M. , Datiy Kseniya A. , Popova Anna N. , Valnyukova Anastasiya S. , Bogomyakov Artem S. , Dodonov Vadim G.
Published: October 2015

In the paper, the particle morphology is considered and the slices of phase diagrams of nanosystems agreeable to the synthesis conditions are constructed according to the data obtained earlier by authors, as well as new results of the study of nanostructured Fe-Co, Fe-Ni, Co-Ni, Fe-Co-Ni, Fe-Pt, Cu-Ni and Ni-Cd powders. It is found that all considered polymetallic systems have common nature of the particle size spatial organization, i.e., 7-20 nm nanocrystals (for different systems) form highly compact aggregates (40-100 nm) which put together into loose porous agglomerates (up to 200-250 nm) and then into unconsolidated micron size formation of cloud type. It is classified uncovered features of nanostructured polymetallic phase diagrams in comparison with phase diagrams of bulk systems. Magnetic properties of nanosystems are studied.
Molecular Complexes of p-Chloranil with Aniline, Phenol and their Derivatives
Authors: Pryalkin Boris S. , Bodagova Yulia S.
Published: October 2015

Classification of simple supramolecular structures (for example molecular complexes), which has been introduced and described by Mulliken [1], is based on types of molecular orbitals of the components. In the paper [2], disadvantages of such classification are shown, which motivate us to return to the re-examination properties of molecular complexes. By this reason, there is a need to research the molecular complexes of one electron acceptor with a wide range of electron donor molecules. This paper have continued work (Part I [3]) on the chloranil complexes by studying the spectral properties complexes of N- and O-unsubstituting anilines and phenols. The present work aimed at analyzing linear relation the energies of charge-transfer bands of molecular complexes are related to ionization potentials of the donor components. All complexes conform to linear relations like involving both adiabatic and vertical ionization potentials of donor components. Mulliken [1] has been proposed to apply the vertical ionization potentials of donor components only. The development of photoelectron spectroscopy has led to the measurement of adiabatic and vertical ionization energies for thousands of molecules, which allow theirs to the present analysis of spectral properties molecular complexes.
Crystal Structures of Binuclear Coordination Rare-Earth Metal Compounds
Authors: Cherkasova Tatyana G. , Cherkasova Elizaveta V.
Published: October 2015

The double complex compounds - hexa (isothiocyanate) chromates (III) of lanthanide (III) complexes with ε-caprolactam and nicotinic acid [Ln (ε-C6H11NO)8][Cr (NCS)6] and [Ln (C5H5NCOO)3(H2O)2][Cr (NCS)6]·nH2O, n=1,2 - were produced from the aqueous solutions by means of direct synthesis. The substances are studied by the spectroscopic method; their crystal structure is determined. It is found that all the complexes are of island ionic type. ε-C6H11NO complexes form triclinic system crystals - space group P ̄1, or monoclinic - space group С2/с. The nicotinic acid compositions crystallize in the monoclinic system, space group P21/n. The complexes have reversible heat-sensitive properties and can serve as the chemical sensors in the temperature-sensitive devices that are used for visual inspection of the thermal regime in various technological processes.
Synthesis and Characteristics of CaAl2O4:Eu3+ Phosphor Prepared by Zol-Gel Method
Authors: Mishenina Lyudmila N. , Selyunina Liliya A. , Botvina Tatiana M.
Published: October 2015

Alkaline earth metal aluminates activated by rare-earth ions (REn+) possess intensive luminescence upon UV excitation. The paper studies phase formation of calcium aluminate prepared by the sol-gel method. The stages of the end products’ formation using methods of the thermal and the infrared spectrometric analysis and X-ray diffraction are proposed. Dependence of phase composition, the surface morphology and luminescence properties on the annealing temperature of the precursor is investigated.
Combination Therapy Using IL-2/IL-2 Monoclonal Antibody Complexes, Rapamycin, and Islet Autoantigen Peptides Increases Regulatory T Cell Frequency and Protects against Spontaneous and Induced Type 1 Diabetes in Nonobese Diabetic Mice
Authors: Manirarora Jean N. , Wei Cheng-Hong
Published: October 2015

Regulatory T cells (Treg) play a crucial role in the maintenance of self-tolerance. In this study, we sought to expand Ag-specific Tregs in vivo and investigate whether the expanded Tregs can prevent or delay the development of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in the NOD mouse model. NOD mice were treated with a combination of IL-2/anti–IL-2 Ab complex, islet Ag peptide, and rapamycin. After the combined treatment, CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ Tregs were significantly expanded in vivo, they expressed classical Treg markers, exerted enhanced suppressive functions in vitro, and protected against spontaneous development of T1D in NOD mice. Moreover, treated mice were almost completely protected from the adoptively transferred, aggressive form of T1D caused by in vitro–activated cytotoxic islet Ag-specific CD8 T cells. Protection from T1D was transferrable by Tregs and could be attributed to reduced islet infiltration of immune cells as well as the skewing of the immune response toward a Th2 cytokine profile. This new method of peripheral immune regulation could potentially contribute to development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies to prevent the development of T1D or to promote tolerance to islet transplants without using immunosuppressive drugs for long terms.
Oral Immunization with a Recombinant Lactococcus lactis–Expressing HIV-1 Antigen on Group A Streptococcus Pilus Induces Strong Mucosal Immunity in the Gut
Authors: Chamcha Venkateswarlu , Jones Andrew , Quigley Bernard R. , Scott June R. , Amara Rama Rao
Published: October 2015

The induction of a potent humoral and cellular immune response in mucosal tissue is important for the development of an effective HIV vaccine. Most of the current HIV vaccines under development use the i.m. route for immunization, which is relatively poor in generating potent and long-lived mucosal immune responses. In this article, we explore the ability of an oral vaccination with a probiotic organism, Lactococcus lactis, to elicit HIV-specific immune responses in the mucosal and systemic compartments of BALB/c mice. We expressed the HIV-1 Gag-p24 on the tip of the T3 pilus of Streptococcus pyogenes as a fusion to the Cpa protein (LL-Gag). After four monthly LL-Gag oral immunizations, we observed strong Gag-specific IgG and IgA responses in serum, feces, and vaginal secretions. However, the Gag-specific CD8 T cell responses in the blood were at or below our detection limit. After an i.m. modified vaccinia Ankara/Gag boost, we observed robust Gag-specific CD8 T cell responses both in systemic and in mucosal tissues, including intraepithelial and lamina propria lymphocytes of the small intestine, Peyer’s patches, and mesenteric lymph nodes. Consistent with strong immunogenicity, the LL-Gag induced activation of CD11c+ CD11b+ dendritic cells in the Peyer’s patches after oral immunization. Our results demonstrate that oral immunization with L. lactis expressing an Ag on the tip of the group A Streptococcus pilus serves as an excellent vaccine platform to induce strong mucosal humoral and cellular immunity against HIV.
Laser forming of LTCC Ceramics for Hot-Plate Gas Sensors
Authors: Kita Jaroslaw , Rettig Frank , Moos Ralf , Drüe Karl-Heinz , Thust Heiko
Published: October 2015

Hot-plate LTCC gas sensors combine advantages of silicon structures (low power consumption) and typical ceramics gas sensors (stability and reliability). Such elements can be integrated in MEMS packages as well as in ceramic sensor arrays. Moreover, they can be produced in small series with relatively low cost. One important key in hot-plate design are properly formed beams. This paper presents possibilities and problems related to laser forming of LTCC ceramics for hot-plate gas sensors. Influence of beam width on power consumption and temperature distribution is discussed. Possibilities to achieve beam width as narrow as possible are practically tested by laser cutting. Obtained results are very promising for future work and for possible application of LTCC ceramics in such type of gas sensors.
Modified-Amine Cured Epoxy Formulation For The Encapsulation Of Electronic Circuits
Authors: Rinaldi Gilberto , Catalani Alessia , Rubini Giulio , Surace Daniele
Published: October 2015

The chemical modification of a polyalkylene-polyamine by reaction with phenol and formaldehyde allowed the obtainment of a series of curing agents tailored for an epoxy formulation suitable for the “conformal coating” of electronic assemblies. The mechanical, physical and above all electrical properties and durability of the coatings were measured; the presence of inorganic fillers (quartz and mica) into the formulation was also experimented with satisfactory results.
Two-Phase Stacked Microchannel Heat Sinks for Microelectronics Cooling
Authors: Hegde Pradeep , Seetharamu K.N. , Aswatha Narayana P.A. , Abdullah Zulkifly
Published: October 2015

Stacked microchannel heat sinks with two-phase flow have been analyzed using the Finite Element Method (FEM). The present method is a simple and practical approach for analyzing the thermal performance of single or multi layered microchannel heat sinks with either single or two-phase flow. A unique 10 noded finite element is used for the channel discretization. Two-phase thermal resistance, pressure drop and pumping power of single, double and triple stack microchannel heat sinks are determined at different base heat fluxes ranging from 150 W/cm2 to 300 W/cm2. The temperature distribution along the length of the microchannel is also plotted. It is found that stacked microchannel heat sinks with two-phase flow are thermally more efficient than two-phase single layer microchannel heat sinks, both in terms of thermal resistance and pumping power requirements. It is observed that the thermal resistance of a double stack microchannel heat sink with two-phase flow is about 40% less than that for a single stack heat sink. A triple stack heat sink yields a further 20% reduction in the thermal resistance and at the same time operates with about 30% less pumping power compared to a single stack heat sink. The effect of channel aspect ratio on the thermal resistance and pressure drop of stacked microchannel heat sinks with two-phase flow are also studied.
Low Temperature Cofired Ceramic Microfluidic Microsystems for High Temperature and High Pressure Applications
Authors: Patel Kamlesh D. , Peterson Kenneth A. , Hukari Kyle W.
Published: October 2015

As an alternative material to glass, silicon, and plastics, Low Temperature Cofired Ceramic (LTCC) substrate technology is becoming increasingly important for enabling microfluidic microsystems and devices for integrated chemical and biological analysis. LTCC's simple fabrication method and unique ability to withstand high temperatures and high pressures make it well-suited for applications not possible with traditional materials. As part of Sandia's initiative to develop an automated sample preparation system for the μChemlab™ bioagent detector, an integrated microfluidic lyser using LTCC technology has been fabricated, which enables the use of aqueous buffers at high temperatures without boiling by using a pressurized system. Thermal lysing of bacterial spores in a flow-through microfluidic device at temperatures as high as 220°C and pressures up to 10.3 MPa (1,500 psi) represents a new method for solubilizing spore proteins for identification and analysis, eliminating the reliance on harsh chemical reducing agents for lysing. This paper will present results on the development of a microfluidic LTCC-based lyser by taking advantage of the inherent properties of LTCC substrates. Specifically, the performance and implementation of a prototype LTCC lyser for solubilizing bacterial spore proteins will be reported.
High-Temperature Spin-On Adhesives for Temporary Wafer Bonding
Authors: Pillalamarri S. , Puligadda R. , Brubaker C. , Wimplinger M. , Pargfrieder S.
Published: October 2015

Wafer thinning has been effectively used to improve heat dissipation in power devices and to fabricate flexible substrates, small chip packages, and multiple chips in a package. Wafer handling has become an important issue due to the tendency of thinned wafers to warp and fold. Thinned wafers need to be supported during the backgrinding process, lithography, deposition, etc. Temporary wafer bonding using removable adhesives provides a feasible route to wafer thinning. Existing adhesives meet only a partial list of performance requirements. They do not meet the requirements of high-temperature stability combined with ease of removal. This paper reports on the development of a wide range of temporary adhesives to be used in wafer thinning applications that use both novel and conventional bonding and debonding methods. We have developed a series of novel removable high-temperature spin-on adhesives with excellent bonding properties and a wide range of operating temperatures for bonding and/or debonding to achieve a better processing window.
LTCC-based Fluidic Components for Chemical Applications
Authors: Thelemann T. , Fischer M. , Groß A. , Müller J.
Published: October 2015

The material properties of low-temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCCs) enable new application areas beyond the use as basic material for high-density circuits. Therefore, LTCCs are increasingly used for microfluidic applications. A modular LTCC-based microreaction system is presented in this article. One focal point of our work was the development of a connecting system for these ceramic fluidic modules. Importance was attached to solid mechanical design, good temperature resistance of fluidic and electrical connections, and minimized dead volume. In contrast to LTCC-based substrates with only electrical circuits, integration of fluidic components makes great demands, especially on the mechanical processing of the green tapes. Mechanical processing of LTCC was made by laser cutting or laser ablation. Single modules and a complete system are the subject of chemical characterization. LTCC-based mixer structures are characterized using the Villermaux–Dushman method. The functionality of the whole system is shown with an example reaction.
Fatigue Prediction of Electronic Packages Subjected to Random Vibrations
Authors: Saravanan S. , Sakri M.I. , Mohanram P.V.
Published: October 2015

In modern automotive control modules, mechanical failures of surface-mounted electronic components such as microprocessors, crystals, capacitors, inductors, transformers, ball grid array packages (BGA), quad flat packages (QFP), and chip-scale packages (CSP) are major road blocks in the design cycle and reliability of the product. This paper presents a general approach for failure analysis and fatigue prediction of electronic component like QFPs under automotive vibration environments. The mechanical performance of this package was studied through a finite element modeling approach for a given vibration environment in an automotive application. The vibration simulation provides system characteristics such as modal shapes, modal frequencies, and dynamic responses, including displacements and stresses. By using the results of vibration simulation, fatigue life is predicted based on Miner's cumulative damage ratio and the three-band technique. Detailed (local) model of the lead wire joint is built to correlate the system level model to obtain solder stresses. On the test vehicle, a 160-pin gull-wing lead plastic QFP was chosen to illustrate this approach for failure analysis and fatigue life prediction. From the analysis, it was found that the life used up by the lead wires was 11.6% of the 4-h vibration test.
Enhancement of Fine Line Print Resolution due to Coating of Screen Fabrics
Authors: Schwanke Dieter , Pohlner Jürgen , Wonisch Andreas , Kraft Torsten , Geng Jürgen
Published: October 2015

In LTCC technology, printing is the most reliable and cost-effective process for line deposition on ceramic layers. An enhancement of resolution is required to realize modules in the highest frequency range which requires small lines and distances. The fine line print resolution is limited by two factors of processing. One is paste rheology itself, including viscosity particle size and thixotropic behavior. The other factor is the screen with limitations in mesh size, wire thickness, calendering, and angle of the screen fabric in the frame. From the viewpoint of the screen, the idea was to improve the fabric by coating. It can be shown that especially in concentric circles, even with fine line screens, arrays occur where no printing happens. These paste free areas exhibit a moiré effect and follow exactly the string angle of the screen. This is caused by the crossing of the strings of the fabric which does not allow a passing of the paste due to very narrow gaps. To facilitate the paste passing, the idea is to coat the fabric with a hydrophobic surface, so that the adhesion of the paste on the fabric wires becomes drastically reduced and therefore the detachment is enhanced. This coating is only appropriate for the bottom side of the screen and the spaces between the meshes. On the topside, the thixotropic effect of the paste requires good adhesion to achieve the necessary shear effect. Therefore, the topside of the screen should be coated hydrophilic to provide a significant paste adhesion to the screen, which is necessary for this shear stress. This development is supported by numeric simulation to predict the appropriate direction for these coated screens to improve the paste rheology.