bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase stability, Debye temperature and hardness of semiconducting manganese tetraboride MnB4: First-principles investigations
Authors: Zhong Ming-Min , Huang Cheng , Tian Chun-Ling
Published: March 2017

First-principles investigations are employed to provide a fundamental understanding of the structural features, phase stability, mechanical properties, Debye temperature, and hardness of manganese tetraboride. Eight candidate structures of known transition-metal tetraborides are chosen to probe. The calculated lattice parameters, elastic properties, Poisson’s ratio, and [Formula: see text] ratio are derived. It is observed that the monoclinic structure with [Formula: see text] symmetry (MnB4–MnB4) is the most stable in energy. The mechanical and thermodynamic stabilities of seven possible phases are confirmed by the calculated elastic constants and formation enthalpy. Moreover, the analysis on density of states demonstrates semiconducting behavior of MnB4–MnB4 and different metallic behaviors of other phases. The estimated hardness of MnB4–MnB4 is 38.3 GPa, which is in good agreement with experimental value. Furthermore, the relationship between hardness and Debye temperature is investigated and verifies that MnB4–MnB4 is a newly potential semiconducting ultrahard material with high melting point. It provides a new perspective of searching for semiconducting superhard materials to be applied in extreme conditions.
A Multistrain Bacterial Diffusion Model for Link Prediction
Authors: Franzoni Valentina , Chiancone Andrea , Milani Alfredo
Published: March 2017

Topological link prediction is the task of assessing the likelihood of new future links based on topological properties of entities in a network at a given time. In this paper, we introduce a multistrain bacterial diffusion model for link prediction, where the ranking of candidate links is based on the mutual transfer of bacteria strains via physical social contact. The model incorporates parameters like efficiency of the receiver surface, reproduction rate and number of social contacts. The basic idea is that entities continuously infect their neighborhood with their own bacteria strains, and such infections are iteratively propagated on the social network over time. The probability of transmission can be evaluated in terms of strains, reproduction, previous transfer, surface transfer efficiency, number of direct social contacts i.e. neighbors, multiple paths between entities. The value of the mutual strains of infection between a pair of entities is used to rank the potential arcs joining the entity nodes. The proposed multistrain diffusion model and mutual-strain infection ranking technique have been implemented and tested on widely accepted social network data sets. Experiments show that the MSDM-LP and mutual-strain diffusion ranking technique outperforms state-of-the-art algorithms for neighbor-based ranking.
Distinguishing mutant pretzel knots in concordance
Authors: Miller Allison N.
Published: March 2017

We prove that many four-strand pretzel knots of the form [Formula: see text] are not topologically slice, even though their positive mutants [Formula: see text] are ribbon. We use the sliceness obstruction of Kirk and Livingston [Twisted Alexander invariants, Reidemeister torsion, and Casson–Gordon invariants, Topology 38 (1999) 635–661], related to the twisted Alexander polynomials associated to prime power cyclic covers of knots.
Coverings of torus knots in S2 × S1 and universals
Authors: Núñez Víctor , Ramírez-Losada Enrique , Rodríguez-Viorato Jesús
Published: March 2017

Let [Formula: see text] be an ordinary fiber of a Seifert fibering of [Formula: see text] with two exceptional fibers of order [Formula: see text]. We show that any Seifert manifold with Euler number zero is a branched covering of [Formula: see text] with branching [Formula: see text] if [Formula: see text]. We compute the Seifert invariants of the Abelian covers of [Formula: see text] branched along a [Formula: see text]. We also show that [Formula: see text], a non-trivial torus knot in [Formula: see text], is not universal.
Information Sharing Among Cyber Hackers in Successive Attacks
Authors: Hausken Kjell
Published: March 2017

Supplementing the literature on information sharing between firms, the paper seeks to understand information sharing between hackers and how firms defend against increasingly sophisticated hackers. Each hacker seeks financial gain, mutually beneficial information exchange, and reputation gain. The two hackers’ attack and the firm’s defense are inverse U shaped in each other. A hacker shifts from attack to information sharing when attack is costly or the firm’s defense is cheap. The first hacker’s information sharing increases as both hackers focus increasingly on reputation gain. The two hackers largely increase their information sharing, with two exceptions. The second hacker’s attack is deterred by the first hacker’s reputation gain. The firm’s defense against the second hacker increases in the second hacker’s unit cost, decreases in the second hacker’s information sharing effectiveness and utilization of joint sharing, and also decreases in both hackers’ reputation gain. Policy and managerial implications are provided.
Kernels in tropical geometry and a Jordan–Hölder theorem
Authors: Perri Tal , Rowen Louis H.
Published: March 2017

When considering affine tropical geometry, one often works over the max-plus algebra (or its supertropical analog), which, lacking negation, is a semifield (respectively, [Formula: see text]-semifield) rather than a field. One needs to utilize congruences rather than ideals, leading to a considerably more complicated theory. In his dissertation, the first author exploited the multiplicative structure of an idempotent semifield, which is a lattice ordered group, in place of the additive structure, in order to apply the extensive theory of chains of homomorphisms of groups. Reworking his dissertation, starting with a semifield[Formula: see text][Formula: see text], we pass to the semifield[Formula: see text][Formula: see text] of fractions of the polynomial semiring[Formula: see text], for which there already exists a well developed theory of kernels, which are normal convex subgroups of [Formula: see text]; the parallel of the zero set now is the [Formula: see text]-set, the set of vectors on which a given rational function takes the value 1. These notions are refined in supertropical algebra to [Formula: see text]-kernels (Definition 4.1.4) and [Formula: see text]-sets, which take the place of tropical varieties viewed as sets of common ghost roots of polynomials. The [Formula: see text]-kernels corresponding to tropical hypersurfaces are the [Formula: see text]-sets of what we call “corner internal rational functions,” and we describe [Formula: see text]-kernels corresponding to “usual” tropical geometry as [Formula: see text]-kernels which are “corner-internal” and “regular.” This yields an explicit description of tropical affine varieties in terms of various classes of [Formula: see text]-kernels. The literature contains many tropical versions of Hilbert’s celebrated Nullstellensatz, which lies at the foundation of algebraic geometry. The approach in this paper is via a correspondence between [Formula: see text]-sets and a class of [Formula: see text]-kernels of the rational [Formula: see text]-semifield[Formula: see text] called polars, originating from the theory of lattice-ordered groups. When [Formula: see text] is the supertropical max-plus algebra of the reals, this correspondence becomes simpler and more applicable when restricted to principal [Formula: see text]-kernels, intersected with the [Formula: see text]-kernel generated by [Formula: see text]. For our main application, we develop algebraic notions such as composition series and convexity degree, leading to a dimension theory which is catenary, and a tropical version of the Jordan–Hölder theorem for the relevant class of [Formula: see text]-kernels.
Jacobi–Maupertuis metric and Kepler equation
Authors: Chanda Sumanto , Gibbons Gary William , Guha Partha
Published: March 2017

This paper studies the application of the Jacobi–Eisenhart lift, Jacobi metric and Maupertuis transformation to the Kepler system. We start by reviewing fundamentals and the Jacobi metric. Then we study various ways to apply the lift to Kepler-related systems: first as conformal description and Bohlin transformation of Hooke’s oscillator, second in contact geometry and third in Houri’s transformation [T. Houri, Liouville integrability of Hamiltonian systems and spacetime symmetry (2016), www.geocities.jp/football_physician/publication.html ], coupled with Milnor’s construction [J. Milnor, On the geometry of the Kepler problem, Am. Math. Mon. 90 (1983) 353–365] with eccentric anomaly.
Integrable motion of two interacting curves, spin systems and the Manakov system
Authors: Myrzakul Akbota , Myrzakulov Ratbay
Published: March 2017

Integrable spin systems are an important subclass of integrable (soliton) nonlinear equations. They play important role in physics and mathematics. At present, many integrable spin systems were found and studied. They are related with the motion of three-dimensional curves. In this paper, we consider a model of two moving interacting curves. Next, we find its integrable reduction related with some integrable coupled spin system. Then, we show that this integrable coupled spin system is equivalent to the famous Manakov system.
Cyanate Ester Resin Filled with Graphene Nanosheets and NiFe2O4–Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanohybrids for Efficient Electromagnetic Interference Shielding
Authors: Ren Fang , Shi Yanfei , Ren Penggang , Si Xiaohuan , Wang Huan
Published: March 2017

An effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding cyanate ester (CE) composite has been fabricated with a combination of graphene nanosheets (GNSs) and nickel ferrite (NiFe2O[Formula: see text] particles. NiFe2O4 particles were loaded on the reduced graphene oxide (RGO) to improve the dispersibility while the composites were synthesized via solution blending method. Scanning electron micrographs (SEM) showed good dispersion of GNSs and RGO–NiFe2O4 in CE. Electromagnetic properties and EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) of the nanocomposites were determined over X-bands (8.2–12.4[Formula: see text]GHz). It was observed that the EMI shielding performance of composites was improved by increasing the filler loading of composites and absorption was found to be the dominant shielding mechanism. The total EMI SE is almost reaching 50[Formula: see text]dB for samples with thicknesses of [Formula: see text]2.7[Formula: see text]mm, which suggests that the GNSs/RGO–NiFe2O4/CE could be good candidates for highly efficient EMI shielding materials in the whole X-band.
Application of homotopy perturbation method to solve two models of delay differential equation systems
Authors: Yüzbaşi Şuayip , Karaçayir Murat
Published: March 2017

In this paper, two delay differential systems are considered, namely, a famous model from mathematical biology about the spread of HIV viruses in blood and the advanced Lorenz system from mathematical physics. We then apply the homotopy perturbation method (HPM) to find their approximate solutions. It turns out that the method gives rise to easily obtainable solutions. In addition, residual error functions of the solutions are graphed and it is shown that increasing the parameter [Formula: see text] in the method improves the results in both cases.
Recent Highlights of Scientific Ballooning in Japan
Authors: Fuke H.
Published: March 2017

Since 2008, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) has carried out annual domestic balloon campaigns from Taiki Aerospace Research Field (TARF). Productive results have been obtained by many projects in academic fields such as atmospheric science, space engineering, cosmic-ray physics, and astronomy. In 2013, an 80,000-m3 balloon made from a 2.8-[Formula: see text]m ultra-thin polyethylene film reached an altitude of 53.7 km, equaling the world record for the altitude of an unmanned balloon. In 2015, JAXA carried out a balloon campaign from Alice Springs in Australia as a precursor of future sustainable overseas activities to compliment the domestic ones at TARF. In this paper, we discuss recent highlights of and future prospects for Japanese scientific ballooning.
A Pyrrole-Imidazole Polyamide Is Active against Enzalutamide-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Kurmis Alexis A. , Yang Fei , Welch Timothy R. , Nickols Nicholas G. , Dervan Peter B.
Published: March 2017

The LREX' prostate cancer model is resistant to the antiandrogen enzalutamide via activation of an alternative nuclear hormone receptor, glucocorticoid receptor (GR), which has similar DNA-binding specificity to the androgen receptor (AR). Small molecules that target DNA to interfere with protein–DNA interactions may retain activity against enzalutamide-resistant prostate cancers where ligand-binding domain antagonists are ineffective. We reported previously that a pyrrole-imidazole (Py-Im) polyamide designed to bind the consensus androgen response element half-site has antitumor activity against hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. In enzalutamide-resistant LREX' cells, Py-Im polyamide interfered with both AR- and GR-driven gene expression, whereas enzalutamide interfered with only that of AR. Genomic analyses indicated immediate interference with the AR transcriptional pathway. Long-term treatment with Py-Im polyamide demonstrated a global decrease in RNA levels consistent with inhibition of transcription. The polyamide was active against two enzalutamide-resistant xenografts with minimal toxicity. Overall, our results identify Py-Im polyamide as a promising therapeutic strategy in enzalutamide-resistant prostate cancer. Cancer Res; 77(9); 2207–12. ©2017 AACR.
Mitochondrial DNA Integrity Is Maintained by APE1 in Carcinogen-Induced Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Ballista-Hernández Joan , Martínez-Ferrer Margaly , Vélez Roman , Climent Consuelo , Sánchez-Vázquez Maria M. , Torres Ceidy , Rodríguez-Muñoz Adlin , Ayala-Peña Sylvette , Torres-Ramos Carlos A.
Published: March 2017

Changes in mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) integrity have been reported in many cancers; however, the contribution of mtDNA integrity to tumorigenesis is not well understood. We used a transgenic mouse model that is haploinsufficient for the apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (Apex1+/−) gene, which encodes the base excision repair (BER) enzyme APE1, to determine its role in protecting mtDNA from the effects of azoxymethane (AOM), a carcinogen used to induce colorectal cancer. Repair kinetics of AOM-induced mtDNA damage was evaluated using qPCR after a single AOM dose and a significant induction in mtDNA lesions in colonic crypts from both wild-type (WT) and Apex1+/−animals were observed. However, Apex1+/− mice had slower repair kinetics in addition to decreased mtDNA abundance. Tumors were also induced using multiple AOM doses, and both WT and Apex1+/−animals exhibited significant loss in mtDNA abundance. Surprisingly, no major differences in mtDNA lesions were observed in tumors from WT and Apex1+/− animals, whereas a significant increase in nuclear DNA lesions was detected in tumors from Apex1+/− mice. Finally, tumors from Apex1+/− mice displayed an increased proliferative index and histologic abnormalities. Taken together, these results demonstrate that APE1 is important for preventing changes in mtDNA integrity during AOM-induced colorectal cancer.

Implications: AOM, a colorectal cancer carcinogen, generates damage to the mitochondrial genome, and the BER enzyme APE1 is required to maintain its integrity. Mol Cancer Res; 15(7); 831–41. ©2017 AACR.
In vivo Imaging of the Cerebral Endothelial Glycocalyx in Mice
Authors: Yoon Jin-Hui , Lee Eek-Sung , Jeong Yong
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Endothelial glycocalyx refers to the proteoglycan or glycoprotein layer of vessel walls and has critical physiological functions. Cerebral glycocalyx may have additional functions considering the blood-brain barrier and other features. However, the assessment of it has only been performed ex vivo, which includes processes presumably damaging the glycocalyx layer. Here we visualize and characterize the cerebral endothelial glycocalyx in vivo. Methods: We visualized and quantified the cerebral endothelial glycocalyx in vivo under a 2-photon microscope by tagging glycocalyx and vessel lumen with wheat germ agglutinin lectin and dextran, respectively. The radial intensity was analyzed to measure the thickness of the cerebral endothelial glycocalyx in each vessel type. Results: Cerebral arteries and capillaries have an intact endothelial glycocalyx, but veins and venules do not. The thickness of the glycocalyx layer in pial arteries, penetrating arteries, and capillaries was different; however, it was not correlated with the vessel diameter within each vessel type. Conclusion: We characterized the distribution of the cerebral endothelial glycocalyx in vivo. Compared to the results from ex vivo studies, the layer is thicker, indicating that the layer may be damaged in ex vivo systems. We also observed an inhomogeneous cerebral endothelial glycocalyx distribution that might reflect the functional heterogeneity of the vessel type.
Incidentally Discovered Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Lacrimal Gland with Isolated Liver Metastases
Authors: Maamari Robi N. , Custer Philip L. , Harocopos George J.
Published: March 2017

Aim: To report a rare presentation of adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the lacrimal gland. Method: This is a case report presenting clinical, radiographic, and histopathologic findings. Results: A 72-year-old female with no reported ocular symptoms was found to have an incidental right orbital mass on imaging. Additional studies revealed multiple liver lesions, which were biopsied and found to be consistent with ACC. She was then referred to the ophthalmology service, where ocular examination demonstrated 2.5 mm of right proptosis with elevation and abduction deficits. Diplopia could be elicited in extreme upgaze and right lateral gaze. An excisional biopsy of the orbital mass was performed, with histopathology confirming the diagnosis of primary ACC of the lacrimal gland, thereby also supporting the initial suspicion that the hepatic ACC lesions represented metastases. Conclusion: The authors describe a rare presentation of ACC of the lacrimal gland, initially asymptomatic, with metastatic lesions restricted to the liver at the time of diagnosis. Three previous cases of ACC with isolated metastatic hepatic lesions at the time of diagnosis have been reported; all of these cases localized the primary tumor to the salivary glands.
Suppression of MicroRNA-383 Enhances Therapeutic Potential of Human Bone-Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells in Treating Spinal Cord Injury via GDNF
Authors: Wei Guo-Jun , An Gang , Shi Zuo-Wei , Wang Kai-Fu , Guan Ying , Wang Yan-Song , Han Bo , Yu En-Ming , Li Peng-Fei , Dong Da-Ming , Wang Li-ping , Teng Zhao-wei , Zhao De-lai
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: Transplantation of bone-marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) has been used to treat spinal cord injury (SCI) to enhance tissue repair and neural cell regeneration. Glial cell line derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) is an identified neural growth and survival factor. Here, we examined whether modification of GDNF levels in MSCs may further increase the potential of MSCs in promoting neural cell regeneration and subsequently the therapeutic outcome. Methods: We examined the mRNA and protein levels of GDNF in human MSCs by RT-qPCR and Western blot, respectively. Bioinformatics analyses were done to predict microRNAs (miRNAs) that target GDNF in MSCs. The functional binding of miRNAs to GDNF mRNA was examined by a dual luciferase reporter assay. MSCs were transduced with adeno-associated virus (AAV) carrying null or antisense for miR-383 (as-miR-383), which were transplanted into nude rats that underwent SCI. The intact tissue, cavity volume, and recovery of locomotor activity were assessed. Results: MSCs expressed very low GDNF protein, but surprisingly high levels of GDNF mRNA. Bioinformatics analyses showed that miR-383 inhibited protein translation of GDNF, through binding to the 3’-UTR of the GDNF mRNA. MSCs transduced with AAV-as-miR-383 further increased the intact tissue percentage, decreased cavity volume, and enhanced the recovery of locomotor activity in nude rats that underwent SCI, compared to MSCs. Conclusions: Suppression of miR-383 may increase the therapeutic potential of human bone-marrow-derived MSCs in treating SCI via augmentation of GDNF protein levels.
Surface Properties and MC3T3-E1 Cell Response of Cortical Bone Allografts Modified with Low-Concentration Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Huang Zengfa , Cheng Cheng , Wang Jing , Wei Hui , Liu Xianzhe , Yan Xinxin , Zhou Yan , Liu Yunlu , Yang Shuhua
Published: March 2017

Background/Aims: This experimental study aimed to evaluate the effect of low-concentration phosphoric acid on the surface structure of cortical allografts. Methods: Allogenic cortical bones were obtained from femurs and tibias of New Zealand white rabbits. The bones were modified by treatment with various concentrations of phosphoric acid (10%, 20% or 30%) for 10, 30 or 60 minutes, then evaluated by the following methods: 3-(4,5-Dimethyl-2-thiazolyl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and LIVE/DEAD assay, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) assay, biomechanical properties testing, contact angle detection, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR), western blotting and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Results: Compared with the other groups, the group modified with 10% H3PO4 for 10 minutes had lower cytotoxicity according to MTT and LIVE/DEAD assays, higher hydrophilicity in the contact angle detection test and greater stability in the biomechanical properties test. Moreover, an up-regulation of osteopontin (OPN) in bones modified with 10% H3PO4 was observed by Q-PCR and western blotting. In addition, ALP assay and SEM showed that surface porosity and osteoinductivity were increased in the group modified with 10% H3PO4. Conclusions: Low-concentration phosphoric acid may be a potential method for surface modification of cortical allografts. Further animal experiments and animal infection model studies are required to validate the efficacy of surface-modified cortical allografts to repair large segmental bone defects.
O basquetebol masculino nos Jogos Olímpicos: história e a participação do Brasil
Authors:   Universidade de São Paulo. Escola de Artes, Ciências e Humanidades, De Rose Junior Dante
Published: March 2017

A história do basquetebol nos Jogos Olímpicos, a maior festa do esporte mundial. Desde a primeira edição em que foi apresentado como esporte de demonstração, em 1904 em Saint Louis (Estados Unidos), até a recente edição dos Jogos no Rio de Janeiro, em 2016.
ATVB Distinguished Scientist Award
Authors: Ley Klaus , Gerdes Norbert , Winkels Holger
Published: March 2017

Objective—

Immune cells play a critical role in atherosclerosis. Costimulatory and coinhibitory molecules of the tumor necrosis factor receptor and CD28 immunoglobulin superfamilies not only shape T-cell and B-cell responses but also have a major effect on antigen-presenting cells and nonimmune cells.

Approach and Results—

Pharmacological inhibition or activation of costimulatory and coinhibitory molecules and genetic deletion demonstrated their involvement in atherosclerosis. This review highlights recent advances in understanding how costimulatory and coinhibitory pathways shape the immune response in atherosclerosis.

Conclusions—

Insights gained from costimulatory and coinhibitory molecule function in atherosclerosis may inform future therapeutic approaches.
Multiparametric Imaging of Organ System Interfaces
Authors: Vandoorne Katrien , Nahrendorf Matthias
Published: March 2017

Cardiovascular diseases are a consequence of genetic and environmental risk factors that together generate arterial wall and cardiac pathologies. Blood vessels connect multiple systems throughout the entire body and allow organs to interact via circulating messengers. These same interactions facilitate nervous and metabolic system’s influence on cardiovascular health. Multiparametric imaging offers the opportunity to study these interfacing systems’ distinct processes, to quantify their interactions, and to explore how these contribute to cardiovascular disease. Noninvasive multiparametric imaging techniques are emerging tools that can further our understanding of this complex and dynamic interplay. Positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging and multichannel optical imaging are particularly promising because they can simultaneously sample multiple biomarkers. Preclinical multiparametric diagnostics could help discover clinically relevant biomarker combinations pivotal for understanding cardiovascular disease. Interfacing systems important to cardiovascular disease include the immune, nervous, and hematopoietic systems. These systems connect with classical cardiovascular organs, such as the heart and vasculature, and with the brain. The dynamic interplay between these systems and organs enables processes, such as hemostasis, inflammation, angiogenesis, matrix remodeling, metabolism, and fibrosis. As the opportunities provided by imaging expand, mapping interconnected systems will help us decipher the complexity of cardiovascular disease and monitor novel therapeutic strategies.
CD163 Expression in Neurons After Experimental Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Liu Ran , Cao Shenglong , Hua Ya , Keep Richard F. , Huang Yining , Xi Guohua
Published: March 2017

Background and Purpose—

CD163, a receptor for hemoglobin, is involved in hemoglobin clearance after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). In contrast to microglial/macrophage CD163, neuronal CD163 hemoglobin has not been well studied. This study examined the expression of neuronal CD163 in a pig model of ICH and in vitro rat cortical neurons and the impact of deferoxamine on that expression.

Methods—

There were 2 parts to this study. In the in vivo part, piglets had injection of autologous blood into the right frontal lobe. The time course of CD163 expression and the effect of deferoxamine on the expression of CD163 after ICH were determined in the grey matter. In the in vitro part, the levels of CD163 and neuronal death and the effect of deferoxamine were examined in rat cortical neurons culture treated with hemoglobin.

Results—

CD163-positive cells were found, and the CD163 protein levels were upregulated in the ipsilateral grey matter after ICH. The CD163 levels peaked at days 1 and 3. The CD163-positive cells were colocated with NeuN-positive, heme oxygenase-2–positive, and terminal deoxynucleatidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling–positive cells. Deferoxamine treatment attenuated ICH-induced CD163 upregulation and significantly reduced both brain CD163 and hemoglobin levels at day 3. Treating neuronal cultures with hemoglobin for 24 hours resulted in CD163 upregulation and increased cell death. Deferoxamine significantly attenuated the hemoglobin-induced neuronal death and CD163 upregulation.

Conclusions—

CD163 is expressed in neurons and upregulated after ICH. Deferoxamine reduced ICH-induced CD163 upregulation and brain cell death in vivo and hemoglobin-induced CD163 upregulation and neuronal death in vitro.
Breakthrough Innovation through Design Education: Perspectives of Design-Led Innovators
Authors: de Bont Cees , Liu Sylvia Xihui
Published: March 2017

This study explored how breakthrough innovation can be stimulated in the context of China. Interviews with leading design practitioners led to a comprehensive framework of barriers to innovation, out of which design education is chosen as the main focus. The leading practitioners provide suggestions on the adoption of strategic design in the context of China and provide explicit suggestions on how to improve design education.
Devious Design: Digital Infrastructure Challenges for Experimental Ethnography
Authors: Poirier Lindsay
Published: March 2017

Diverse disciplinary communities approach design with diverse design logics design directives informed by critical theoretical commitments that are to be translated into material form. Recounting the design of a digital humanities platform, this paper shows how design logics of existing digital infrastructure can at times be out of sync with those of a design community seeking to leverage it. I argue that, in such situations, a designer should do more than simply “make do” with available infrastructure; the designer should instead design deviously – leveraging infrastructure in ways that undercut its logics. This suggests that reflective design involves reflecting, not only on design practice, but also on the logics of the infrastructure available to designers.
Potentiality and Actuality of the Infinite: A Misunderstood Passage in Aristotle’s Metaphysics (Θ.6, 1048b14-17)
Authors: Weidemann Hermann
Published: March 2017

InMetaphysicsΘ.6, 1048b14-17, Aristotle treats the problem of what it is for the infinite to exist potentially, i.e. to be potentially actual. According to my interpretation, Aristotle argues that to exist potentially is for the infinite to have a potentiality which cannot be actualized in reality but only in thought, because it is a potentiality the process of whose actualization cannot be brought to an end.
Park Quality and Elderly Citizens’ Dog-Walking Practices
Authors: Dzhambov Angel M.
Published: March 2017

Dog guardianship encourages people to exercise and visit public parks, and it’s a positive feature for senior citizens. This research tested the hypothesis that the effect park quality has on the time that seniors spend walking their dogs is mediated by the attitude of other park visitors toward the dogs and influences dog guardians’ perceived health. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among dog-guardians (> 65 years) in four parks of Plovdiv, Bulgaria. A 13-item questionnaire was administered; park quality and district geomorphology were appraised using gis analysis and field observations. Park quality had a significant and negative indirect effect on perceived health through the mediators’ “dog complaints” and “time spent dog-walking” operating in a serial, causal sequence. Better park quality was related to less dog-walking time and to poorer perceived health; more visitors were attracted and there were increased complaints against dogs. Better park planning for dog walkers is needed.
Digitonthophagus Balthasar, 1959: taxonomy, systematics, and morphological phylogeny of the genus revealing an African species complex (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae)
Authors: GÉNIER FRANÇOIS , MORETTO PHILIPPE
Published: March 2017

The taxonomy and systematics of the genus Digitonthophagus Balthasar (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae: Onthophagini) is revised. A detailed study of the male genitalia combined with external morphology suggests that the variability, previously recognized, for D. gazella is hiding a species complex within the Afrotropical region and the Arabian Peninsula. The current study recognizes 16 species; 13 from the Afrotropical region and Arabian Peninsula and three from the eastern portion of the Saharo-Arabian region and the continental Indomalayan region. Species are organized into six species groups based on the results of the morphology-based phylogenetic analysis. The following 12 species are described as new: D. aksumensis Génier new species; D. biflagellatus Génier new species; D. dilatatus Génier new species; D. eucatta Génier new species; D. falciger Génier new species; D. fimator Génier new species; D. namaquensis Génier new species; D. petilus Génier new species; D. sahelicus Moretto new species; D. uks Génier new species; D. ulcerosus Génier new species; and D. viridicollis Génier new species. In order to stabilize nomenclature, lectotypes are designated for Scarabaeus bonasus Fabricius, 1775; Scarabaeus catta Fabricius, 1787, and Onthophagus gazella lusinganus d’Orbigny. A neotype is designated for Scarabaeus dorcas Olivier, 1789 whose status and synonymy need to be altered in order to clarify the status of Scarabaeus gazella auctorum, the widely introduced species with economic importance. A naming scheme is presented for the sclerites of the internal sac. External and male genitalia are illustrated and distribution maps are provided for each species.
Poor Response to Periodontal Treatment May Predict Future Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Holmlund A. , Lampa E. , Lind L.
Published: March 2017

Periodontal disease has been associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD), but whether the response to the treatment of periodontal disease affects this association has not been investigated in any large prospective study. Periodontal data obtained at baseline and 1 y after treatment were available in 5,297 individuals with remaining teeth who were treated at a specialized clinic for periodontal disease. Poor response to treatment was defined as having >10% sites with probing pocket depth >4 mm deep and bleeding on probing at ≥20% of the sites 1 y after active treatment. Fatal/nonfatal incidence rate of CVD (composite end point of myocardial infarction, stroke, and heart failure) was obtained from the Swedish cause-of-death and hospital discharge registers. Poisson regression analysis was performed to analyze future risk of CVD. During a median follow-up of 16.8 y (89,719 person-years at risk), those individuals who did not respond well to treatment (13.8% of the sample) had an increased incidence of CVD ( n = 870) when compared with responders (23.6 vs. 15.3%, P < 0.001). When adjusting for calendar time, age, sex, educational level, smoking, and baseline values for bleeding on probing, probing pocket depth >4 mm, and number of teeth, the incidence rate ratio for CVD among poor responders was 1.28 (95% CI, 1.07 to 1.53; P = 0.007) as opposed to good responders. The incidence rate ratio among poor responders increased to 1.39 (95% CI, 1.13 to 1.73; P = 0.002) for those with the most remaining teeth. Individuals who did not respond well to periodontal treatment had an increased risk for future CVD, indicating that successful periodontal treatment might influence progression of subclinical CVD.
Rapid-deployment or transcatheter aortic valves in intermediate-risk patients?
Authors: Bruno Piergiorgio , Di Cesare Alessandro , Nesta Marialisa , Cammertoni Federico , Mazza Andrea , Paraggio Lazzaro , Rosenhek Raphael , Burzotta Francesco , Crea Filippo , Trani Carlo , Massetti Massimo
Published: March 2017

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve implantation and rapid-deployment aortic valve replacement represent two emerging therapies for patients with intermediate surgical risk and severe aortic stenosis. However, head-to-head comparisons between such novel therapies are lacking.

Methods

Severe aortic stenosis patients with intermediate surgical risk treated with rapid-deployment valve replacement at our institution were identified and compared with a propensity-matched population of patients who underwent transcatheter aortic valve replacement. Postoperative echocardiographic findings, in-hospital and midterm clinical outcomes were compared.

Results

We identified 60 patients who received transcatheter ( n = 30) or rapid-deployment ( n = 30) valve replacement. On postoperative echocardiography, freedom from paravalvular regurgitation was higher in the rapid-deployment valve group ( p < 0.001), while postoperative mean transprosthetic gradient was lower in the transcatheter valve group ( p = 0.03). Permanent pacemaker implantation was required more frequently in transcatheter valve patients ( p = 0.01). Postoperative atrial fibrillation was more common in the rapid-deployment valve group ( p = 0.03). Hospital mortality was similarly low in both groups ( p = 0.33). At midterm follow-up, mortality was comparable ( p = 0.42) but the rapid-deployment valve group still had a lower degree of paravalvular regurgitation.

Conclusions

Transcatheter and rapid-deployment valve replacement are promising treatment options for patients with intermediate surgical risk. These two techniques are associated with specific patterns of prosthesis function and postoperative complications. Further evaluation of the clinical impact of these therapies in this patient population is needed.
On the Gouy–Stodola theorem of thermodynamics for open systems
Authors: Pal Rajinder
Published: March 2017

The Gouy–Stodola theorem of thermodynamics is probably the most important one from an engineering point of view. It is indispensable in the analysis and design of a process from a thermodynamics perspective. It quantifies the level of irreversibility in the process. Yet, it has not received the due attention in the engineering literature. For example, the textbooks in chemical engineering thermodynamics rarely mention this theorem. This theorem can be expressed in two different ways, either in the form of exergy destruction or in the form of lost work. The conditions under which this theorem is applicable are not clearly spelled out in the existing textbooks and published literature. There is confusion in the literature regarding the general validity of the theorem. In this article, a complete analysis of this theorem is presented for open systems and its limitations are pointed out. This article should be of help to students in understanding and applying the Gouy–Stodola theorem to different practical situations dealing with flow processes. Due to its practical significance, it is important that this theorem is taught to all engineering undergraduate students regardless of their engineering discipline. As the theorem involves advanced level concepts in thermodynamics such as entropy generation and exergy destruction in the system and the surroundings, the appropriate place for the introduction of this theorem is the second advanced-level course in thermodynamics. This should not pose any problem as most engineering disciplines teach two one-semester courses on thermodynamics to the undergraduate students.
Emergency Food Assistance in Northern Syria: An Evaluation of Transfer Programs in Idleb Governorate
Authors: Doocy Shannon , Tappis Hannah , Lyles Emily , Witiw Joseph , Aken Vicki
Published: March 2017

Background:

The war in Syria has left millions struggling to survive amidst violent conflict, pervasive unemployment, and food insecurity. Although international assistance funding is also at an all-time high, it is insufficient to meet the needs of conflict-affected populations, and there is increasing pressure on humanitarian stakeholders to find more efficient, effective ways to provide assistance.

Objective:

To evaluate 3 different assistance programs (in-kind food commodities, food vouchers, and unrestricted vouchers) in Idleb Governorate of Syria from December 2014 and March 2015.

Methods:

The evaluation used repeated survey data from beneficiary households to determine whether assistance was successful in maintaining food security at the household level. Shopkeeper surveys and program monitoring data were used to assess the impact on markets at the district/governorate levels and compare the cost-efficiency and cost-effectiveness of transfer modalities.

Results:

Both in-kind food assistance and voucher programs showed positive effects on household food security and economic measures in Idleb; however, no intervention was successful in improving all outcomes measured. Food transfers were more likely to improve food access and food security than vouchers and unrestricted vouchers. Voucher programs were found to be more cost-efficient than in-kind food assistance, and more cost-effective for increasing household food consumption.

Conclusion:

Continuation of multiple types of transfer programs, including both in-kind assistance and vouchers, will allow humanitarian actors to remain responsive to evolving access and security considerations, local needs, and market dynamics.
The Role of Local Leaders in Environmental Concerns in Master Plans: An Empirical Study of China’s Eighty Large Municipalities
Authors: Zhang Lei , Tochen Rachel M. , Hibbard Michael , Tang Zhenghong
Published: March 2017

Limited research has explored the reasons behind the level of environmental concerns in master plans in China, where serious environmental degradation has caught the world’s attention and the planning regime is significantly different from those based on representative democracy. Analyzing eighty master plans of China’s large municipalities, we find that the education and age of local leaders have a significant effect on environmental concerns in master plans, while their work experience and state mandate do not. We conclude that that well-educated local leaders and a more collaborative planning approach could deal more efficiently with environmental problems in China.
Sulfonated aromatic copoly(ether–amide) membranes II
Authors: Sosa-González Wadi Elim , Palí-Casanova Ramón del Jesús , Pérez-Padilla Yamile , Loría-Bastarrachea María Isabel , Santiago-García José Luis , Aguilar-Vega Manuel de Jesús
Published: March 2017

Several aromatic sulfonated copoly(ether–amide)s, based on the aromatic diamines 4,4′-(hexafluoroisopropylidene)bis(p-phenyleneoxy)-dianiline (HFD) and 2,4-diaminobenzensulfonic acid (DABS) and 4,4′-oxybis(benzoic acid) (OBA), were synthesized through a polycondensation reaction. The sulfonation degree was controlled by introducing different concentrations of 2,4-DABS from 40 mol% up to 80 mol%. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance validated the expected concentrations of sulfonic acid groups in the sulfonated aromatic copoly(ether–amide)s. Thermal decomposition of sulfonic groups was found to initiate at 280°C, while main chain decomposition initiates at 410°C. Proton conductivity between 30°C and 75°C was 19.0 and 45.0 mS/cm, respectively, for the copolymer with the highest concentration of sulfonic groups (–SO3H). Comparison with structurally similar sulfonated copolyamides and copoly(ether–amide)s indicates that these new sulfonated copoly(ether–amide)s based on 4,4′-OBA show improved mechanical properties, but a decrease in ion exchange capacity and proton conductivity.
‘Why I Sent My Child Away’
Authors: Srivastava Deepa , de Guzman Maria Rosario T.
Published: March 2017

Although long-distance parenting is often depicted as a response to crisis (e.g., economic) or other stressful life events, it is sometimes undertaken in various culturally normative situations. This current study explores the motivations of South Asian Indian immigrant parents for sending their young children to India to live temporarily with their grandparents. This qualitative study involves in-depth interviews with first generation immigrant parents about their experiences and motivations for sending their children to India. Analysis of the data revealed five themes, namely, (a) contextual and daily challenges in caring for their children in the United States, (b) parents’ concern around paid group childcare, (c) grandparents as ideal caregivers but unable to stay in the United States, (d) presence of other extended network of relationships and support in India and (e) parents wanting their children to maintain their language and customs. Findings suggest culturally grounded beliefs around optimal childrearing (e.g., grandparents as ideal caregivers, presence of extended network of support in India and maintaining Indian traditions and values) and parents’ contextual needs (e.g., parents’ busy schedule around job and education) when traditional caregiving context changes due to migration to a new country. Implications for researchers are discussed.
Public Fears in Ukrainian Society
Authors: Rybnikov Sviatoslav R. , Rybnikova Natalya A. , Portnov Boris A.
Published: March 2017

Numerous experimental studies have revealed that two statistical measures of biological populations—(a) the correlation between certain parameters of their members and (b) the dispersion of theses parameters—simultaneously increase under stress conditions. Later on, this effect was confirmed also for financial systems. In our study we tested the applicability of these two stress-indicating statistical measures to Ukrainian society. We examined the prolonged stress period preceding the 2014 Ukrainian economic and political crisis. We considered the dynamics of 19 major public fears which got spread in the Ukrainian society during this period: of economic regress, of breakdown of the state, of losing sovereignty, etc. The study revealed that there was a simultaneous increase in the total correlation between the fears (by about 64 per cent) and also in their statistical dispersion (by 29 per cent) during the pre-crisis years. It is suggested that these measures may be a useful tool for monitoring stress onset and for possible steps that can be taken to prevent societal crises.
Economics of Climate Change in the Indian Sundarbans
Authors: Roy Chandan , Guha Indrila
Published: March 2017

Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This area is populated by some of the world’s poorest people characterized by low levels of socio-economic indicators. However, it is one of the richest areas in the world in terms of natural resources and biodiversity. Climate change is evident here and is one of the important drivers of migration, food insecurity and poverty in this area. The basic objective of our study is to assess the socio-economic impact of climate change and its implications for availability of natural resources, and thereby to understand the adaptation needs of the people. Climate change not only impacts agricultural productivity but also the occupational structure. The decline in food security and the lack of other developmental choices in the face of climate variability are a serious threat to the economic viability of population. We have used stratified sampling techniques for data collection at household level based on pre-designed questionnaires and focus group discussion. We have tried to analyze vulnerability based on LIFE framework and log-linear regression model, and suggest some adaptation strategies to reduce vulnerability.
Book Review: François Bourguignon and Thomas Scott-Railton (Trans.), The Globalization of Inequality
Authors: Kaushal Leena Ajit
Published: March 2017

François Bourguignon and Thomas Scott-Railton (Trans.), The Globalization of Inequality. Oxford: Princeton University Press, 2015, 210 pp., $27.95 (9780691160528) (hardback).
Impact of Watershed Programme on Nutritional Security
Authors: Cherukuri Radhika Rani , P. Raj Kumar , T. Phanindra Kumar
Published: March 2017

Nutrition security is central to the sustainable development agenda of the developing nations. Productivity enhancement activities in a watershed programme have a number of positive implications, out of which nutritional security is a major one. To what extent a watershed programme is meeting the nutrition challenge of its stakeholders is the concern. The study was taken up in four watershed villages in Telangana Province of India. The performance of watershed programmes was appreciable from the point of view of increase in disposable income with an increase in crop diversification and with an increase in employment through wage works. This is resonated laterally in the form of nutritional security with an increase in access to quality foods such as milk, meat, fruits and vegetables. However, the picture is not as bright as there were many children in the watershed villages who scored less anthropometrically. This suggests the need for nutrition-specific and nutrition-sensitive interventions on a watershed platform.