bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Business process innovation on quality and supply chains
Authors: Schniederjans Dara G.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the role of business process innovation on the relationship between social quality management (SQM) and supply chain performance. To address this issue, this paper distinguishes SQM from soft quality management. This paper further refines the impact of two levels of business process innovation (radical vs incremental) on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through a survey of manufacturing firms throughout the USA. Hierarchical moderated regression analyses were performed in order to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

This study confirmed the positive association between SQM and supply chain performance. While the results confirm a positive moderating relationship with incremental business process innovation between SQM and supply chain performance, radical process innovation was found to have a negative moderating role on this relationship.

Originality/value

This paper distinguishes SQM from soft quality management thus making it easier to determine which aspects of soft quality management enhance supply chain performance. This study also provides evidence of the differing ways in which business process innovation moderates the relationship between SQM and supply chain performance specifically identifying the positive and negative moderating role of incremental and radical business process innovations.
An analytical approach and finite element evaluation of leakage fluxes of the PMs in a non-slotted axial flux permanent magnet machine
Authors: Mirzahosseini Reza , Darabi Ahmad , Assili Mohsen
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Consideration of leakage fluxes in the preliminary design stage of a machine is important for accurate determination of machine dimensions and prediction of performance characteristics. This paper aims to obtain some equations for calculating the average air gap flux density, the flux density within the magnet and the air gap leakage flux factor.

Design/methodology/approach

A detailed magnetic equivalent circuit (MEC) is presented for a TORUS-type non-slotted axial flux permanent magnet (TORUS-NS AFPM) machine. In this MEC, the leakage flux occurring between two adjacent magnets and the leakage fluxes taking place between the magnet and rotor iron at the interpolar, inner and outer edges of the magnets are considered. According to the proposed MEC and by using flux division law, some equations are extracted. A three-dimensional finite element method (FEM) is used to evaluate the proposed analytical equations. The study machine is a 3.7 kW and 1,400 rpm TORUS-NS AFPM machine.

Findings

The air gap leakage flux factor, the average air gap flux density and the flux density within the magnet are calculated using the proposed equations and FEM. All the results of FEM confirm the excellent accuracy of the proposed analytical method.

Originality/value

The new equations presented in this paper can be applied for leakage flux evaluating purposes.
A new metaheuristic unscented Kalman filter for state vector estimation of the induction motor based on Ant Lion optimizer
Authors: Rayyam Marouane , Zazi Malika , Barradi Youssef
Published: March 2018

Purpose

To improve sensorless control of induction motor using Kalman filtering family, this paper aims to introduce a new metaheuristic optimizer algorithm for online rotor speed and flux estimation.

Design/methodology/approach

The main problem with unscented Kalman filter (UKF) observer is its sensibility to the initial values of Q and R. To solve the optimal solution of these matrices, a novel alternative called ant lion optimization (ALO)-UKF is introduced. It is based on the combination of the classical UKF observer and a nature-inspired metaheuristic algorithm, ALO.

Findings

Synthesized ALO-UKF has given good results over the famous extended Kalman filter and the classical UKF observer in terms of accuracy and dynamic performance. A comparison between ALO and particle swarm optimization (PSO) was established. Simulations illustrate that ALO recovers rapidly and accurately while PSO has a slower convergence.

Originality/value

Using the proposed approach, tuning the design matrices Q and R in Kalman filtering becomes an easy task with a high degree of accuracy and the constraints of time cost are surmounted. Also, ALO-UKF is an efficient tool to improve estimation performance of states and parameters’ uncertainties of the induction motor. Related optimization technique can be extended to faults monitoring by online identification of their corresponding signatures.
2-D quasi-static Fourier series solution for a linear induction motor
Authors: Woronowicz Konrad , Abdelqader Majd , Palka Ryszard , Morelli Jordan
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to present a method for calculating electromagnetic fields, eddy currents and forces for a quasi-static two-dimensional (2-D) model of linear induction motors (LIMs) where the primary side is modeled as a collection of individual coils.

Design/methodology/approach

An analytical solution using Fourier series is derived for a general source with current excitations residing in an airgap and moving relative to a conducting plate and back iron. Ideal magnetic material with infinite permeability is used to model the primary iron above the primary source and the back iron below the conducting plate.

Findings

The analytical solution is compared to a commercial 2-D finite element analysis (FEA) simulation for validation and then compared to a 2-D FEA model with a more detailed geometry of the LIM. The analytical model accurately predicts LIM thrust even though the geometry of the primary core is simplified as an infinitely long flat slab. 2-D frequency FEA can be used successfully to predict in motion LIM performance.

Originality/value

The analytical solution presented here models the primary excitations as individual discrete coils instead of current sheets, which all existing models are based on. The discrete coils approach provides a more intuitive and realistic model of the LIM.
Analytical way of transforming the hyperbolic hysteresis model into theT(x) model
Authors: Takacs Jeno
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to present an analytical way of formulating the vital parameters of an equivalent hysteresis loop of a composite, multi-component magnetic substance. By using the hyperbolic model, the only model, which separates the constituent parts of the composite magnetic materials, an equivalent loop can be composed analytically. So far, it was only possible to superimpose the tanh functions by numerical method. With this transformation, all multi-component composite substances can be treated mathematically as a single-phase material, as in theT(x) model, and include it in mathematical operations. The transformation works with good accuracy for major and minor loops and provides an easy analytical way to arrive to the vital parameters. This also shows an analytical way to the easy solution of some of the difficult problems in magnetism for multi-component ferrous materials, such as Fourier and Laplace transforms, accommodation and energy loss, already solved for theT(x) model.

Design/methodology/approach

The mathematical single loop formulation of hysteresis loop of a multi-phase substance shows the way in good approximation of the sum of constituent loops, described by tanh functions. That was so far only possible by numerical methods. By doing so, it becomes equivalent to theT(x)model for mathematical operations.

Findings

The described method gives an analytical formulation [identical to theT(x) model] of multi-component hysteresis loops described by hyperbolic model, leading to simple solution of difficult problems in magnetism such as loop reversal.

Research limitations/implications

Although the method is an approximation, its accuracy is good enough for use in magnetic research and practical applications in industries engaged in application of magnetic materials.

Practical implications

The hyperbolic model is the only one which separates the magnetic substance, used in practice, to constituent components by describing its multi-component state. Superimposing the components was only possible so far by numerical means. The transformation shown is an analytical approximation applicable in mathematical calculations. The transformation described here enables the user to apply all rules applicable to theT(x) model.

Social implications

This study equally helps researchers and practical users of the hyperbolic model.

Originality/value

This novel analytical approach to the problem provides an acceptable mathematical solution for practical problems in research and manufacturing. It shows a way to solutions of many difficult problems in magnetism.
Facilities and maintenance services for sustainable high-rise living
Authors: Sia Mal Kong , Yew Vivien Wong Chin , Lim Zhi Yong , Dongqing Ye
Published: March 2018

Purpose

It is essential to provide the necessary facilities in a building for human living. However, most unit owners of high-rise buildings do not realise the importance of good property management until their buildings and common facilities have deteriorated. It is thus important to ensure adequate maintenance is provided to create and sustain a healthy living environment for high-rise households. The purpose of this study is to measure and compare the perceptions and satisfactions of residents with the facilities and maintenance services provided in two different condominiums located next to each other.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey questionnaires were used, and the data were collected from 120 residents of each condominium which was developed by the same developer but completed at different times. Using the IBM SPSS Statistics software, cross tabulations, χ2 tests of independence and independent-samples t-tests were carried out for descriptive and inferential statistics. A simple post questionnaire survey was conducted to confirm the findings obtained from χ2 tests and t-tests.

Findings

The results show that residents’ perceptions of facilities and maintenance services provided are significantly higher for the newer condominium compared to the older one. Residents’ satisfactions with facilities are also higher for the newer condominium. However, poorer lift services and their maintenance have resulted in lower overall mean satisfaction with maintenance services for the newer condominium. Nevertheless, results from data collected in post questionnaire survey reveal that the respondents still prefer to live in the newer condominium despite higher rental rates.

Research limitations/implications

This paper reports only the data collected from samples of two condominiums in Kuala Lumpur.

Practical implications

There is a dearth of literature on residents’ perceptions and satisfactions towards facilities and maintenance services provided for high-rise residential living, particularly in Malaysia, where high-rise buildings are either managed by joint management body or management corporation depending on whether the strata titles have been issued. The findings can be used as benchmarks for property management purposes of condominiums.

Originality/value

This paper could be considered as the first in reporting residents’ perceptions and satisfactions with the facilities and maintenance services provided in residential high-rise buildings since the implementation of the Strata Management Act 2013, which was implemented to provide for proper maintenance and management of high-rise buildings and the common properties.
The history of healthcare facilities management services: a UK perspective on infection control
Authors: Njuangang Stanley , Liyanage Champika , Akintoye Akintola
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The history of the development of non-clinical services in infection control (IC) dates back to the pre-modern era. There is evidence of health-care facility management (HFM) services in Roman military hospitals. With the fall of the Roman Empire, Christian beliefs and teaching shaped the development of HFM in monastic hospitals. It was not until the late Victorian era that the link between HFM services and diseases caused by “miasma”, or bad air, became established. The discovery of bacteria in the modern scientific era reduced the level of importance previously attached to non-clinical causes of infections. Today, in the NHS, HFM services continue to be treated as though they had no real role to play in IC. This paper aims to collate historical and epidemiological evidence to show the link between HFM and IC.

Design/methodology/approach

The evidence gathered in this research paper is primarily based on an in-depth review of research from a wide range of sources. A “within-study literature analysis” was conducted to synthesise the research materials. This involved the application of “between-source triangulation” to verify the quality of the information contained in the studies, and “between-source complementarity” to provide an in-depth elaboration of the historical facts.

Findings

Historical and epidemiological evidence shows that HFM services such as cleaning, waste management, catering, laundry and maintenance continue to play a crucial role in IC. This is corroborated by evidence gathered from the work of renowned pioneers in the field of IC. However, reforms in the NHS have failed to consider this, as HFM services have been largely fragmented through different partnership arrangements.

Practical implications

Among many other things, this research raises the profile of HFM staff in relation to the issue of IC in hospitals. It presents convincing evidence to show that the relationship between the clinical and non-clinical domains in controlling infections in hospitals has a long history. The findings of this research give HFM staff invaluable information about the significant role of their profession in the control of infections in hospitals.

Originality/value

This is one of the few studies examining the historical development of HFM services, as well as their contribution to IC. Other work in this area has mainly been framed from a clinical health-care perspective.
Impairment reversals: unbiased reporting or earnings management
Authors: Cao Tongyu , Shaari Hasnah , Donnelly Ray
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to provide evidence that will inform the convergence debate regarding accounting standards. The authors assess the ability of impairment reversals allowed under International Accounting Standard 36 but disallowed by the Financial Accounting Standards Board to provide useful information about a company.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a sample of 182 Malaysian firms that reversed impairment charges and a matched sample of firms which chose not to reverse their impairments. Further analysis examines if reversing an impairment charge is associated with motivations for and evidence of earnings management.

Findings

The authors find no evidence that the reversal of an impairment charge marks a company out as managing contemporaneous earnings. However, they document evidence that firms with high levels of abnormal accruals and weak corporate governance avoid earnings decline by reversing previously recognized impairments. In addition, companies that have engaged in big baths as evidenced by high accumulated impairment balances and prior changes in top management, use impairment reversals to avoid earnings declines.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study support both the informative and opportunistic hypotheses of impairment reversal reporting using Financial Reporting Standard 136.

Practical implications

The results also demonstrate how companies that use impairment reversals opportunistically can be identified.

Originality/value

The results support IASB’s approach to the reversal of impairments. They also provide novel evidence as to how companies exploit a cookie-jar reserve created by a prior big bath opportunistically.
Inclusive environmental disclosure practices and firm performance
Authors: Longoni Annachiara , Cagliano Raffaella
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Little empirical work has been done on the effects of inclusive environmental disclosure and green supply chain management (GSCM) on firm outcomes. The literature on environmental disclosure suggests that it is a useful practice to improve a firm’s reputation and its financial performance and also to establish a dialogue with stakeholders improving environmental performance. Recent conceptual contributions in the supply chain management literature state that stakeholder expectations and informational needs increasingly concern firm supply chains. Thus, the authors propose that positive effects of inclusive environmental disclosure practices are enhanced in presence of GSCM practices. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

To test these relationships a combination of primary data on environmental disclosure practices, GSCM practices and environmental performance, and secondary data on financial performance was used. A series of hierarchical regression models were performed to test the disclosure-outcome relationships and the moderation of GSCM practices.

Findings

Results provide empirical support for the impact of inclusive environmental disclosure practices on financial performance but no support for the impact on environmental performance. Specifically, the more inclusive the environmental disclosure practices the greater and positive is the impact on financial performance in presence of GSCM practices.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence of the joint effects of inclusive environmental disclosure and GSCM practices on environmental and financial performance. Doing so, it reinforces the recent conceptual foundation that firms should align and leverage on supply chain management for disclosure practice effectiveness.
Angel investors’ predictive and control funding criteria
Authors: Crick James M. , Crick Dave
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the question involving what factors affect angel investors’ decision-making in funding new start-ups with specific reference to their evolving business models. Without funding and access to networks and experience, certain entrepreneurs will not get their business model through the start-up phase.

Design/methodology/approach

Data arise from 20 semi-structured interviews with angel investors in New Zealand plus supplementary interviews with business incubator managers and textual data.

Findings

The findings suggest a degree of causation-based decision-making, in that certain linear thinking was evident. The implication is that, without the ability of the entrepreneurs to convince the investors about key criteria in their decision-making, investment is unlikely. Nevertheless, a degree of effectuation-based decision-making was also evident, the implication being investors having to balance risk/reward decisions in the context of their own perceptions of affordable losses against an evolving business model. However, angel investors may take on co-investment, including from overseas, that takes decision-making away from management teams.

Originality/value

The study draws attention to the need to consider entrepreneurial ecosystems in angel investor’s decision-making and especially those with a small domestic market that may require management teams to look for scalability internationally. Furthermore, an effectuation lens contributes to knowledge in respect of predictive and control criteria, in particular, assessing risks and rewards against affordable losses involving an evolving business model.
Does language homophily affect migrant consumers’ service usage intentions?
Authors: Pezzuti Todd , Pierce Meghan E. , Leonhardt James M.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

This paper investigates how language homophily between service providers and migrant consumers affects migrant consumers’ intentions to engage with financial and medical service providers.

Design/methodology/approach

Three empirical studies were conducted with migrant consumers living in Chile, England and the USA. Participants were presented information on service providers, and language homophily was manipulated between subjects. In the high (low) language homophily condition, service providers were described as having (not having) the ability to speak the native language of the migrant consumer.

Findings

Language homophily was found to increase migrant consumers’ expectation of control over a service encounter and, in turn, increase their intention to use a provider’s services. Collectivism was identified as a boundary condition. Among high collectivist consumers, language homophily did not affect service usage intentions; however, language homophily did positively affect service usage intentions among low collectivist consumers.

Originality/value

This work extends prior research on service provider language by finding a positive effect of language homophily on service usage intentions and by identifying mediating (i.e. expected control over the outcome of the service encounter) and moderating (i.e. collectivism) mechanisms for this effect.
Preservice Social Studies Teachers’ Opinions Regarding History Education
Authors: Alaca Eray , Yildirim Tercan
Published: March 2018

In Turkey, preservice social studies teachers take history education courses such as Revolution History and Kemalism I-II, Ancient History and Civilization, Pre-Islamic Turkish History and Culture, History of Turkish Education, History of Medieval Age, Ottoman History and Civilization I-II, New and Contemporary History, Contemporary World History, and History of Turkish Republic I-II during their undergraduate education. The purpose of this study was to reveal preservice social studies teachers’ opinions regarding how these courses were taught. Within this scope, their perceptions of how these courses were taught and their opinions regarding how history courses should be taught were tried to be determined. The participants of this study involved 125 third and fourth-year undergraduates studying social studies education of a faculty of education at a state university. One of the qualitative research designs, phenomenology was used in this study. The data were collected using a semi-structured interview form. During the interviews, the participants were asked to respond three questions: “What is instruction?”, “How are history courses taught in your department?”, and “how should the history courses be taught?” The data were analyzed using descriptive analysis technique. Direct quotations were used and the emerging themes were presented under some categories in Findings section.
Evaluation of the Effect of Core Training on the Leap Power and Motor Characteristics of the 14-16 Years Old Female Volleyball Players
Authors: Bilici Ömer Faruk , Selçuk Muzaffer
Published: March 2018

In this study, it was aimed to assess the effects of core training on the vertical jump strength and some motor characteristics of 14-16 aged female volleyball players. Thirty-four female athletes playing volleyball in Van province participated in the study voluntarily. The average age of volleyball players is 15.47, the weight average is 53.66 kg and the average height is 164.29 cm. The athletes participating in the study were randomly divided into two groups as control groups (n=17) and experimental groups (n=17). Control group joined only the volleyball training. Experimental group participated in the 10-week, 3-days-a-week core training in addition to the volleyball training. Measurements were taken before and after the study. Intra-group and inter-group, pre-test, post-test values were calculated using SPSS package program. The students’ t-test was used to compare pre-training and post-training tests of control group and experimental groups. The paired sample (dependent sample) t-test was used to compare the first and last tests of both groups. Vertical jumping, upper extremity strength, lower extremity strength, strength of the trunk muscles were found to be improved and body fat percentages were found to be decreased in the experimental group. As a result, it can be said that a 10 week core training improved jumping strength and core strength.
Effect of Osmotic Pressure on Cellular Stiffness as Evaluated Through Force Mapping Measurements
Authors: Liao Hsien-Shun , Wen Peter J. , Wu Ling-Gang , Jin Albert J.
Published: March 2018

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) has been used to measure cellular stiffness at different osmolarities to investigate the effect of osmotic pressure on cells. However, substantial direct evidence is essential to clarify the phenomena derived from the experimental results. This study used both the single-point and force mapping methods to measure the effective Young's modulus of the cell by using temporal and spatial information. The single-point force measurements confirmed the positive correlation between cellular stiffness and osmolarity. The force mapping measurements provided local stiffness on the cellular surface and identified the cytoskeleton distribution underneath the plasma membrane. At hyper-osmolarity, the cytoskeleton was observed to cover most of the area underneath the plasma membrane, and the effective Young's modulus on the area with cytoskeleton support was determined to be higher than that at iso-osmolarity. The overall increase in cellular Young's modulus confirmed the occurrence of cytoskeleton compression at hyper-osmolarity. On the other hand, although the average Young's modulus at hypo-osmolarity was lower than that at iso-osmolarity, we observed that the local Young's modulus measured on the areas with cytoskeleton support remained similar from iso-osmolarity to hypo-osmolarity. The reduction of the average Young's modulus at hypo-osmolarity was attributed to reduced cytoskeleton coverage underneath the plasma membrane.
Using Elementary Mechanics to Estimate the Maximum Range of ICBMs
Authors: Amato Joseph
Published: March 2018

North Korea’s development of nuclear weapons and, more recently, intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) has added a grave threat to world order. The threat presented by these weapons depends critically on missile range, i.e., the ability to reach North America or Europe while carrying a nuclear warhead. Using the limited information available from near-vertical test flights, how do arms control experts estimate the maximum range of an ICBM? The purpose of this paper is to show, using mathematics and concepts appropriate to a first-year calculus-based mechanics class, how a missile’s range can be estimated from the (observable) altitude attained during its test flights. This topic—while grim—affords an ideal opportunity to show students how the application of basic physical principles can inform and influence public policy. For students who are already familiar with Kepler’s laws, it should be possible to present in a single class period.
In Praise of the Catenary
Authors: Behroozi F.
Published: March 2018

When a chain hangs loosely from its end points, it takes the familiar form known as the catenary. Power lines, clothes lines, and chain links are familiar examples of the catenary in everyday life. Nevertheless, the subject is conspicuously absent from current introductory physics and calculus courses. Even in upper-level physics and math courses, the catenary equation is usually introduced as an example of hyperbolic functions or discussed as an application of the calculus of variations. We present a new derivation of the catenary equation that is suitable for introductory physics and mathematics courses.
Two Balls’ Collision of Mass Ratio 3:1
Authors: Ogawara Yasuo , Hull Michael M.
Published: March 2018

Students will sometimes ask why momentum and kinetic energy concepts are both necessary. When physics teachers demonstrate situations that require both an understanding of kinetic energy and momentum, a favorite is Newton’s cradle, or a comparable demonstration of two balls of equal mass hitting each other. However, in addition to the case of two balls of equal mass, if a ball hits another ball of three times the mass with equal speed, the results are also interesting, and, like the equal-mass demonstration, both kinetic energy and momentum are critical for understanding the motion.
A Pictorial Approach to Lenz’s Law
Authors: Duffy Andrew
Published: March 2018

This paper describes a pictorial approach to Lenz’s law that involves following four steps and drawing three pictures to determine the direction of the current induced by a changing magnetic flux. Lenz’s law accompanies Faraday’s law, stating that, for a closed conducting loop, the induced emf (electromotive force) created by a changing magnetic flux sets up a current in the loop that tends to oppose the change in flux. Students are often confused by this, but drawing a sequence of three pictures can make it clearer to students how Lenz’s law is applied.
A Classroom Activity for Teaching Electric Polarization of Insulators and Conductors
Authors: Deligkaris Christos
Published: March 2018

The phenomenon of electric polarization is crucial to student understanding of forces exerted between charged objects and insulators or conductors, the process of charging by induction, and the behavior of electroscopes near charged objects. In addition, polarization allows for microscopic-level models of everyday-life macroscopic-level phenomena. Textbooks may adequately discuss polarization, but there is little material in active learning labs and tutorials on this topic. Since polarization of materials is a microscopic phenomenon, instructors often use diagrams and figures on the classroom board to explain the process in a lecture setting. In this paper I will describe a classroom activity where the students play the role of electrons as an alternative option.
The Graphics Tablet – A Valuable Tool for the Digital STEM Teacher
Authors: Stephens Jeff
Published: March 2018

I am inspired to write this article after coming across some publications in The Physics Teacher that all hit on topics of personal interest and experience. Similarly to Christensen my goal in writing this is to encourage other physics educators to take advantage of modern technology in delivering content to students and to feel comfortable doing so. There are numerous ways in which to create screencasts and lecture videos, some of which have been addressed in other articles. I invite those interested in learning how to create these videos to contact their educational technology staff or perform some internet searches on the topic. I will focus this article on the technology that enhanced the content I was delivering to my students. I will share a bit of my journey towards creating video materials and introduce a vital piece of technology, the graphics tablet, which changed the way I communicate with my students.
Fluids Demonstrations: Trailing Vortices, Plateau Border, Angle of Repose, and Flow Instability
Authors: Shakerin Said
Published: March 2018

Demonstrations of physics phenomena via relatively simple devices and toys have been around for a long time. Because of the pedagogical value of demonstrations, this journal and other periodicals have published papers on the subject of classroom demonstrations including those related to fluid mechanics. Four new, low-cost apparatuses that demonstrate a variety of fluid mechanics phenomena are presented in this paper. The apparatuses are self-contained, instantly set up, require no electric power for operation, and are maintenance free. They can be used as demonstration tools to enhance classroom lectures and outreach activities. Alternatively, these apparatuses can be assigned as projects for students to construct and test. Further involvement, from an aesthetic point of view, might be to construct variations of them as decorative objects by collaborating with students/teachers in visual arts. Features of the apparatuses are presented first, followed by notes on fabrication to enable interested readers to replicate them.
Thorium and Molten Salt Reactors: Essential Questions for Classroom Discussions
Authors: DiLisi Gregory A. , Hirsch Allison , Murray Meredith , Rarick Richard
Published: March 2018

A little-known type of nuclear reactor called the “molten salt reactor” (MSR), in which nuclear fuel is dissolved in a liquid carrier salt, was proposed in the 1940s and developed at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the 1960s. Recently, the MSR has generated renewed interest as a remedy for the drawbacks associated with conventional uranium-fueled light-water reactors (LWRs) in use today. Particular attention has been given to the “thorium molten salt reactor” (TMSR), an MSR engineered specifically to use thorium as its fuel. The purpose of this article is to encourage the TPT community to incorporate discussions of MSRs and the thorium fuel cycle into courses such as “Physics and Society” or “Frontiers of Physics.” With this in mind, we piloted a pedagogical approach with 27 teachers in which we described the underlying physics of the TMSR and posed five essential questions for classroom discussions. We assumed teachers had some preexisting knowledge of nuclear reactions, but such prior knowledge was not necessary for inclusion in the classroom discussions. Overall, our material was perceived as a real-world example of physics, fit into a standards-based curriculum, and filled a need in the teaching community for providing unbiased references of alternative energy technologies.
Measurement of g using a magnetic pendulum and a smartphone magnetometer
Authors: Pili Unofre , Violanda Renante , Ceniza Claude
Published: March 2018

The internal sensors in smartphones for their advanced add-in functions have also paved the way for these gadgets becoming multifunctional tools in elementary experimental physics. For instance, the acceleration sensor has been used to analyze free-falling motion and to study the oscillations of a spring-mass system. The ambient light sensor on the other hand has been proven to be a capable tool in studying an astronomical phenomenon as well as in measuring speed and acceleration. In this paper we present an accurate, convenient, and engaging use of the smartphone magnetic field sensor to measure the acceleration due to gravity via measurement of the period of oscillations (simply called “period” in what follows) of a simple pendulum. Measurement of the gravitational acceleration via the simple pendulum is a standard elementary physics laboratory activity, but the employment of the magnetic field sensor of a smartphone device in measuring the period is quite new and the use of it is seen as fascinating among students. The setup and procedure are rather simple and can easily be replicated as a classroom demonstration or as a regular laboratory activity.
A SiQuENC for solving physics problems
Authors: Liao David
Published: March 2018

Students often struggle in AP Physics 1 because they have not been previously trained to develop qualitative arguments. Extensive literature on multiple representations and qualitative reasoning provides strategies to address this challenge. Table I presents three examples, including SiQuENC, which I adapted from a strategy promoted by Etkina et al. To remind students that they can use qualitative reasoning (e.g., arguing from proportionalities), rather than relying only on algebra, I replaced “Solve” with “Analyze.” I added a “Communicate” step to guide planning of written responses to AP Physics 1 and 2 questions. To perform this step, draw a circled number around each key point identified in figures, equations, and sentence fragments. Then, convert numbered points into sentences.
Generation of extremely nonlinear standing-wave field using loudspeaker-driven dissonant tube
Authors: Min Qi
Published: March 2018

A method of generating nonlinear, pure standing-wave fields is proposed using a commercially available ordinary loudspeaker to drive easily manufactured dissonant standing-wave tubes at the first peak resonance frequencies, instead of traditional valley ones. With the transfer matrix, the dissonant properties of such standing-wave tubes with uniform cross-section (STUS), with tapered cross-section (STTS), and with abrupt cross-section (STAS) were analyzed, and extremely nonlinear pure standing-wave fields were obtained experimentally, whose sound pressure level reached 185 dB at the individual first resonance frequencies. The evolution properties of the nonlinear pure standing-wave fields in the STUS, STAS, and STTS were also investigated experimentally. The results show that the STAS provides a good approach to creating extremely nonlinear pure standing-wave field.
Authentic Leadership in Nonprofit Sport Organization Boards
Authors: Takos Nick , Murray Duncan , O’Boyle Ian
Published: March 2018

To learn more about effective leadership of sport organizations, this study explored board member interactions in nonprofit sport boards and specifically the construct of authentic leadership and its impact on board functioning. This somewhat contrasts with the extant research on governance and boards, which has often focused on elements, such as structure, process, and policy. Scholars have often explored the leadership theme within sport at the individual, coach, team, and sport department level. Limited attention has been afforded to studying leadership within the sport governance domain, although the importance of gaining a greater understanding of this area has been noted by both industry and researchers alike. A case study investigation of the Australian Football League exploring authentic leadership in Australian Football League club boards is presented in this paper. Ten Australian Football League clubs took part in the study, and 51 in-depth interviews were conducted with participants (board members) from clubs located across Australia. Interviews were analyzed using an interpretive process, and a thematic structure relating to leadership, board dynamics, and authenticity was developed. Ultimately, three key components of authenticity emerged as highly influential on board effectiveness: relational orientation, self-awareness, and balanced processing. These findings suggest that the nature of relationships between board members, particularly the chair and chief executive officer, is more positively influential on board functionality if characterized by authenticity and likely to lead to higher levels of trust, reduced disharmony, and limiting the formation of harmful subgroups.
Optimal structure and parameter learning of Ising models
Authors: Lokhov Andrey Y. , Vuffray Marc , Misra Sidhant , Chertkov Michael
Published: March 2018

An arbitrary Ising model can be exactly recovered from observations using an information-theoretically optimal amount of data.
Determination of layer-dependent exciton binding energies in few-layer black phosphorus
Authors: Zhang Guowei , Chaves Andrey , Huang Shenyang , Wang Fanjie , Xing Qiaoxia , Low Tony , Yan Hugen
Published: March 2018

We determine the strongly layer-dependent exciton binding energies in few-layer black phosphorus by infrared spectroscopy.
Daylight-driven rechargeable antibacterial and antiviral nanofibrous membranes for bioprotective applications
Authors: Si Yang , Zhang Zheng , Wu Wanrong , Fu Qiuxia , Huang Kang , Nitin Nitin , Ding Bin , Sun Gang
Published: March 2018

Daylight-driven antimicrobial nanomaterials serve as a novel barrier for transmission of emerging infectious diseases.
Neuropilin-1 expression in adipose tissue macrophages protects against obesity and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Wilson Ariel Molly , Shao Zhuo , Grenier Vanessa , Mawambo Gaëlle , Daudelin Jean-François , Dejda Agnieszka , Pilon Frédérique , Popovic Natalija , Boulet Salix , Parinot Célia , Oubaha Malika , Labrecque Nathalie , de Guire Vincent , Laplante Mathieu , Lettre Guillaume , Sennlaub Florian , Joyal Jean-Sebastien , Meunier Michel , Sapieha Przemyslaw
Published: March 2018

Neuropilin-1–expressing adipose tissue macrophages are critical mediators of protective inflammation during weight gain.
Toxoplasma Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase 1 Inhibitors: Probing Activity and Resistance Using Cellular Thermal Shift Assays
Authors: Scheele Suzanne , Geiger Jennifer A. , DeRocher Amy E. , Choi Ryan , Smith Tess R. , Hulverson Matthew A. , Vidadala Rama Subba Rao , Barrett Lynn K. , Maly Dustin J. , Merritt Ethan A. , Ojo Kayode K. , Van Voorhis Wesley C. , Parsons Marilyn
Published: March 2018

In
Toxoplasma gondii
, calcium-dependent protein kinase 1 (CDPK1) is an essential protein kinase required for invasion of host cells. We have developed several hundred CDPK1 inhibitors, many of which block invasion. Inhibitors with similar 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC
50
s) were tested in thermal shift assays for their ability to stabilize CDPK1 in cell lysates, in intact cells, or in purified form. Compounds that inhibited parasite growth stabilized CDPK1 in all assays. In contrast, two compounds that showed poor growth inhibition stabilized CDPK1 in lysates but not in cells. Thus, cellular exclusion could explain exceptions in the correlation between the action on the target and cellular activity. We used thermal shift assays to examine CDPK1 in two clones that were independently selected by growth in the CDPK1 inhibitor RM-1-132 and that had increased 50% effective concentrations (EC
50
s) for the compound. The A and C clones had distinct point mutations in the CDPK1 kinase domain, H201Q and L96P, respectively, residues that lie near one another in the inactive isoform. Purified mutant proteins showed RM-1-132 IC
50
s and thermal shifts similar to those shown by wild-type CDPK1. Reduced inhibitor stabilization (and a presumed reduced interaction) was observed only in cellular thermal shift assays. This highlights the utility of cellular thermal shift assays in demonstrating that resistance involves reduced on-target engagement (even if biochemical assays suggest otherwise). Indeed, similar EC
50
s were observed upon overexpression of the mutant proteins, as in the corresponding drug-selected parasites, although high levels of CDPK1(H201Q) only modestly increased resistance compared to that achieved with high levels of wild-type enzyme.
Preclinical Profile of AB-423, an Inhibitor of Hepatitis B Virus Pregenomic RNA Encapsidation
Authors: Mani Nagraj , Cole Andrew G. , Phelps Janet R. , Ardzinski Andrzej , Cobarrubias Kyle D. , Cuconati Andrea , Dorsey Bruce D. , Evangelista Ellen , Fan Kristi , Guo Fang , Guo Haitao , Guo Ju-Tao , Harasym Troy O. , Kadhim Salam , Kultgen Steven G. , Lee Amy C. H. , Li Alice H. L. , Long Quanxin , Majeski Sara A. , Mao Richeng , McClintock Kevin D. , Reid Stephen P. , Rijnbrand Rene , Snead Nicholas M. , Micolochick Steuer Holly M. , Stever Kim , Tang Sunny , Wang Xiaohe , Zhao Qiong , Sofia Michael J.
Published: March 2018

AB-423 is a member of the sulfamoylbenzamide (SBA) class of hepatitis B virus (HBV) capsid inhibitors in phase 1 clinical trials. In cell culture models, AB-423 showed potent inhibition of HBV replication (50% effective concentration [EC
50
] = 0.08 to 0.27 μM; EC
90
= 0.33 to 1.32 μM) with no significant cytotoxicity (50% cytotoxic concentration > 10 μM). Addition of 40% human serum resulted in a 5-fold increase in the EC
50
s. AB-423 inhibited HBV genotypes A through D and nucleos(t)ide-resistant variants
in vitro
. Treatment of HepDES19 cells with AB-423 resulted in capsid particles devoid of encapsidated pregenomic RNA and relaxed circular DNA (rcDNA), indicating that it is a class II capsid inhibitor. In a
de novo
infection model, AB-423 prevented the conversion of encapsidated rcDNA to covalently closed circular DNA, presumably by interfering with the capsid uncoating process. Molecular docking of AB-423 into crystal structures of heteroaryldihydropyrimidines and an SBA and biochemical studies suggest that AB-423 likely also binds to the dimer-dimer interface of core protein.
In vitro
dual combination studies with AB-423 and anti-HBV agents, such as nucleos(t)ide analogs, RNA interference agents, or interferon alpha, resulted in additive to synergistic antiviral activity. Pharmacokinetic studies with AB-423 in CD-1 mice showed significant systemic exposures and higher levels of accumulation in the liver. A 7-day twice-daily administration of AB-423 in a hydrodynamic injection mouse model of HBV infection resulted in a dose-dependent reduction in serum HBV DNA levels, and combination with entecavir or ARB-1467 resulted in a trend toward antiviral activity greater than that of either agent alone, consistent with the results of the
in vitro
combination studies. The overall preclinical profile of AB-423 supports its further evaluation for safety, pharmacokinetics, and antiviral activity in patients with chronic hepatitis B.
Chimeric Fatty Acyl-Acyl Carrier Protein Thioesterases Provide Mechanistic Insight into Enzyme Specificity and Expression
Authors: Ziesack Marika , Rollins Nathan , Shah Aashna , Dusel Brendon , Webster Gordon , Silver Pamela A. , Way Jeffrey C.
Published: March 2018

Medium-chain fatty acids are commodity chemicals. Increasing and modifying the activity of thioesterases (TEs) on medium-chain fatty acyl-acyl carrier protein (acyl-ACP) esters may enable a high-yield microbial production of these molecules. The plant
Cuphea palustris
harbors two distinct TEs:
C. palustris
FatB1 (
Cp
FatB1) (C
8
specificity, lower activity) and
Cp
FatB2 (C
14
specificity, higher activity) with 78% sequence identity. We combined structural features from these two enzymes to create several chimeric TEs, some of which showed nonnatural fatty acid production as measured by an enzymatic assay and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Notably, chimera 4 exhibited an increased C
8
fatty acid production in correlation with improved microbial expression. This chimera led us to identify
Cp
FatB2-specific amino acids between positions 219 and 272 that lead to higher protein levels. Chimera 7 produced a broad range of fatty acids and appeared to combine a fatty acid binding pocket with long-chain specificity and an ACP interaction site that may activate fatty acid extrusion. Using homology modeling and
in silico
docking with ACP, we identified a “positive patch” within amino acids 162 to 218, which may direct the ACP interaction and regulate access to short-chain fatty acids. On the basis of this modeling, we transplanted putative ACP interaction sequences from
Cp
FatB1 into
Cp
FatB2 and created a chimeric thioesterase that produced medium-chain as well as long-chain fatty acids. Thus, the engineering of chimeric enzymes and characterizing their microbial activity and chain-length specificity suggested mechanistic insights into TE functions and also generated thioesterases with potentially useful properties. These observations may inform a rational engineering of TEs to allow alkyl chain length control.

IMPORTANCE
Medium-chain fatty acids are important commodity chemicals. These molecules are used as plastic precursors and in shampoos and other detergents and could be used as biofuel precursors if production economics were favorable. Hydrocarbon-based liquid fuels must be optimized to have a desired boiling point, low freezing point, low viscosity, and other physical characteristics. Similarly, the solubility and harshness of detergents and the flexibility of plastic polymers can be modulated. The length and distribution of the carbon chains in the hydrophobic tails determine these properties. The biological synthesis of cell membranes and fatty acids produces chains of primarily 16 to 18 carbons, which give rise to current biofuels. The ultimate goal of the work presented here is to engineer metabolic pathways to produce designer molecules with the correct number of carbons in a chain, so that such molecules could be used directly as specialty commodity chemicals or as fuels after minimal processing.