bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Density Clustering Algorithm for Numerical Data and Categorical Data
Authors: Jinyin Chen , Huihao He , Jungan Chen , Shanqing Yu , Zhaoxia Shi
Published: March 2017

Data objects with mixed numerical and categorical attributes are often dealt with in the real world. Most existing algorithms have limitations such as low clustering quality, cluster center determination difficulty, and initial parameter sensibility. A fast density clustering algorithm (FDCA) is put forward based on one‐time scan with cluster centers automatically determined by center set algorithm (CSA). A novel data similarity metric is designed for clustering data including numerical attributes and categorical attributes. CSA is designed to choose cluster centers from data object automatically which overcome the cluster centers setting difficulty in most clustering algorithms. The performance of the proposed method is verified through a series of experiments on ten mixed data sets in comparison with several other clustering algorithms in terms of the clustering purity, the efficiency, and the time complexity.
Planar Smooth Path Guidance Law for a Small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle with Parameter Tuned by Fuzzy Logic
Authors: Chen Yang , Liang Jianhong , Wang Chaolei , Zhang Yicheng , Wang Tianmiao , Xue Chenghao
Published: March 2017

A guidance law has been designed to guide the small unmanned aerial vehicle towards the predefined horizontal smooth path. The guidance law only needs the mathematical expression for the predefined path, the positions, and the velocities of the vehicle in the horizontal inertial frame. The stability of the guidance law has been demonstrated by the Lyapunov stability arguments. In order to improve the path following performance, one of the parameters of the guidance law is tuned by using the fuzzy logic which will still keep its stability. The simulation experiments in the Matlab/Simulink environment to realize the square-, circular-, and the athletics track-style paths following are given to verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. The simulation results show that the path following performance will be improved with smaller overshoot and oscillation amplitude and shorter arrival time with the parameter tuned.
A Prototypical First-Generation Electronic Cigarette Does Not Reduce Reports of Tobacco Urges or Withdrawal Symptoms among Cigarette Smokers
Authors: Harvanko Arit M. , Martin Catherine A. , Kryscio Richard J. , Stoops William W. , Lile Joshua A. , Kelly Thomas H.
Published: March 2017

It is unknown whether first-generation electronic cigarettes reduce smoking urges and withdrawal symptoms following a 24 h deprivation period. This study tested whether a first-generation electronic cigarette reduces smoking urges and withdrawal symptoms in cigarette smokers. Following 24 h of tobacco deprivation, using a within-subjects design, eight nontreatment seeking tobacco cigarette smokers (3 females) administered 10 puffs from a conventional cigarette or a first-generation electronic cigarette containing liquid with 0, 8 or 16 mg/ml nicotine. Conventional cigarettes ameliorated smoking urges and electronic cigarettes did not, regardless of nicotine concentration. First-generation electronic cigarettes may not effectively substitute for conventional cigarettes in reducing smoking urges, regardless of nicotine concentration.
Uncommon Odontogenic Orocutaneous Fistula of the Jaw Treated with Platelet-Rich Fibrin
Authors: Bilginaylar Kani
Published: March 2017

Orocutaneous fistula (OCF) of dental origin is a relatively rare condition and continues to be a challenging diagnosis. Misdiagnosis of OCF usually leads to unnecessary and noneffective treatment. A 21-year-old male referred with a complaint of a lesion on the chin which was misdiagnosed as a carbuncle (lesion of nonodontogenic origin) by a physician. After radiological examination, there was a lesion around the apical region of right central incisor. These findings indicated a sinus tract associated with dental origin. After root canal treatment, apical surgery was performed and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) was administered to the cavity of the lesion as a gel form to improve healing and also used as a membrane form to cut off the relation between infected area and the skin. All procedures were performed intraorally; no extraoral intervention was performed. Three months later, clinical and radiological examination showed total healing without scar formation. The key to successful treatment of OCF is accurate diagnosis. Additionally, the use of PRF after surgical interventions is an effective and innovative therapy to improve healing.
Papillary Fibroelastoma as a Cause of Cardiogenic Embolic Stroke in aβ-Thalassemia Patient: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Chin Re-I , Monda John J. , Sheth Maulik , Ogle William , Merenda Gloria , De Debapriya
Published: March 2017

We describe a case of a young male without stroke risk factors who presented with a sudden onset of left-sided weakness, left hand numbness, and left eye blurriness. CT scan of the head without contrast and diffusion-weighted MRI of the brain with contrast revealed an ischemic stroke in the right middle cerebral artery distribution. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) revealed a mobile pedunculated mass on the posterior surface of the mitral valve. This mass was resected and pathology showed a cardiac papillary fibroelastoma (CPFE), which was determined to be the cause of the patient’s cardioembolic stroke. Further workup also found that patient had microcytic anemia secondary toβ-thalassemia intermedia, a rare hematologic disorder due to defective hemoglobin synthesis. Recently, another case report suggestedβ-thalassemia major may underlie the pathogenesis of CPFE.β-Thalassemia major causes a state of chronic inflammation and endothelial damage, which can mediate CPFE formation. Based on literature review, this is the first case report of a CPFE in a patient withβ-thalassemia intermedia. This hypothesis-generating case report calls attention to the need for elucidating the relationship between CPFE andβ-thalassemia in future studies to better understand the diagnosis and management of a rare cardiac tumor.
Comparison of Muscle and Subcutaneous Tissue Fatty Acid Composition of Bangladeshi Nondescript Deshi Bulls Finished on Pasture Diet
Authors: Alam Mohammad Khairul , Rana Ziaul Hasan , Akhtaruzzaman Mohammad
Published: March 2017

The objective of this study was to characterize and compare the tissue-associated differences in the fatty acid profiles of intramuscular and subcutaneous fat from pasture fed nondescript deshi breed bulls of Bangladesh. The average chemical composition of thelongissimusmuscle was as follows: moisture74.65±0.48%, protein21.55±0.83%, intramuscular fat2.78±0.28%, and ash1.02±0.03%. There was significant evidence that the lipids oflongissimusmuscle from the nondescript deshi bulls had a lower content of saturated fatty acids (SFA), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) and a higher content of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) compared to subcutaneous fat. Intramuscular fat also showed the highest PUFA/SFA and∑n-6/∑n-3fatty acids ratios and total n-3 and n-6 PUFAs compared to subcutaneous tissue depots. Overall findings suggest that the meat from pasture fed nondescript deshi breed can be considered as lean meat and healthy for human consumption.
Xanthone and Flavone Derivatives as Dual Agents with Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition and Antioxidant Activity as Potential Anti-Alzheimer Agents
Authors: Cruz Inês , Puthongking Ploenthip , Cravo Sara , Palmeira Andreia , Cidade Honorina , Pinto Madalena , Sousa Emília
Published: March 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disorder that is associated with the elderly. The current therapy that is used to treat AD is based mainly on the administration of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors. Due to their low efficacy there is a considerable need for other therapeutic strategies. Considering that the malfunctions of different, but interconnected, biochemical complex pathways play an important role in the pathogenesis of this disease, a promising therapy may consist in administration of drugs that act on more than a target on biochemical scenery of AD. In this work, the synthesis and evaluation of xanthone and flavone derivatives as antioxidants with AChE inhibitory activity were accomplished. Among the obtained compounds, Mannich bases3and14showed capacity to inhibit AChE and antioxidant property, exerting dual activity. Moreover, for the most promising AChE inhibitors, docking studies on the target have been performed aiming to predict the binding mechanism. The results presented here may help to identify new xanthone and flavone derivatives as dual anti-Alzheimer agents with AChE inhibitory and antioxidant activities.
Research on Crude Oil Demulsification Using the Combined Method of Ultrasound and Chemical Demulsifier
Authors: Yi Mingxu , Huang Jun , Wang Lifeng
Published: March 2017

In this paper, experiments of crude oil demulsification using ultrasound, chemical demulsifier, and the combined method of ultrasound and chemical demulsifier, respectively, at different temperatures (40°C, 60°C, and 70°C) are carried out. The photos of water droplet distribution in crude oil, taken with microscopic imaging system, before and after demulsification using the above methods at 70°C are given. Research results show that the combined method of ultrasound and chemical demulsifier has the best demulsification effect, followed by chemical demulsifier. Ultrasound without using chemical demulsifier has the least demulsification effect. Furthermore, the impact of ultrasonic power, treatment time, and temperature on crude oil demulsification using the combined method of ultrasound and chemical demulsifier is studied. Results indicate that the final dehydration rate increases with the increase of temperatures and ultrasonic power and almost does not change with the increase of ultrasonic treatment time. These important conclusions will provide the foundation for an extensive application of the combined method of ultrasound and chemical demulsifier.
Analysis of a Constant Retrial Queue with Joining Strategy and Impatient Retrial Customers
Authors: Gao Shan , Niu Xiangyang , Li Tao
Published: March 2017

This paper treats an M/M/1 retrial queue with constant retrial times. If the server is busy at the arrival epoch, the arriving customer decides to join the retrial orbit with probability q or balk with probability 1 − q. Only the customer at the head of the orbit is permitted to access the server. Upon retrial, the customer immediately receives his service if the server is idle; otherwise, he may enter the orbit again or leave the system because of impatience. First, we give the performance analysis for this retrial queue and give some important performance indices. Second, based on a natural reward‐cost structure, we analyze the Nash equilibrium customers’ joining strategies and give some numerical examples.
Lifecycle and fecula measurements of Cheritra freja (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae), as relevant to the different larval stages
Authors: Priyadarshana Tharaka Sudesh , Wijewardhane Ishara Harshajith
Published: March 2017

Here we present some hitherto undescribed details of the habitat, lifecycle, immature stages and a new method for finding different larval stages of Cheritra freja by analyzing the fecula measurements of various larval instars. This study should be very useful in helping researchers to find larvae and new food plants.
Ecology of marine macro algal flora of Visakhapatnam coastal areas, Bay of Bengal, India
Authors: Sowjanya I. Vishnupriya , Sekhar P. S. Raja
Published: March 2017

An ecological study was conducted on species composition, vertical distribution and monthly variations of marine macro algae along the Visakhapatnam coast, Bay of Bengal, India between May 2013 and April 2014.  A total of 48 species was recorded, 18 species belonging to phylum Chlorophyta, nine species to Phaeophyta and 21 species to Rhodophyta.  The phylum Rhodophyta was the most dominant group with the highest number of species composition (44.0%) followed by Chlorophyta (37.0%) and Phaeophyta (19.0%).  Monthly seaweed distribution data showed the dominance of Rhodophyta members (43.75%) during November to February, when compared to that of Chlorophyta and Phaeophyta members.  In addition, the data also revealed that the months from June to August contributed favourable conditions for the growth of Chlorophyta members (29.16%) when compared to that of other months.  The present study has recorded two new species (Ulva lactuca and Enteromorpha intestinalis).  Thirty-five species once recorded are absent from the Visakhapatnam coast.  These changes are attributed to the impact of marine water pollution and climate change.
Status, abundance and habitat preference of butterflies (Insecta: Lepidoptera) in Chittagong University Campus, Chittagong, Bangladesh
Authors: Haidar Ibrahim Khalil Al , Rahman M. Mizanur , Ahsan M. Farid , Islam M. Ariful
Published: March 2017

A study was conducted on the butterflies of the Chittagong University Campus (CUC), Bangladesh between March 2014 and May 2015.  A total of 142 species of butterflies belonging to 87 genera and six families (Hesperiidae, Papilionidae, Pieridae, Lycaenidae, Riodinidae and Nymphalidae) were recorded from the CUC during the study period.  Family Nymphalidae comprised the highest number of species followed by Lycaenidae, Hesperiidae, Pieridae, Papilionidae and Riodinidae.  The abundance of this species stated in terms of very common, common, uncommon, rare and very rare.  The butterflies used different types of habitat (viz., grass land, crop land, open forest, scrub forest, dense forest and bamboo patch) and among all, scrub forests were the most preferred habitat.  Mud puddling of 35 species were also observed.  Five species of butterflies (Ampittia dioscorides, Matapa purpurascens, Polytremis eltola, Unkana ambasa and Ypthima ceylonica) were recorded for the first time in Bangladesh.
An updated report on the distribution and conservation status of the endangered Cat’s Head Rockrose Helianthemum caput-felis (Magnoliopsida: Violales: Cistaceae) in Algeria
Authors: Agulló Jonás C. , Juan Ana , Crespo Manuel B. , Alonso María Ángeles , Terrones Alejandro
Published: March 2017

Helianthemum caput-felis is an Endangered plant species growing in the western Mediterranean basin.  Its distribution is well known to the European and Moroccan regional populations, but no data from its distribution in Algeria have been reported since the middle 20th century.  In this study, we provide an up-to-date report on the distribution of the species in Algeria.  Fieldwork surveys in the classical locations were unsuccessful in finding the species, probably due to human habitat disturbances; however, a relict location was found in Ain-el-Kerma, near one of the historical known locations.  As there is reduced distribution we point out the main causes that threaten the habitat of H. caput-felis according to IUCN threats classification scheme and we also propose to label it in the Algerian Red List as regionally Critically Endangered (CRreg B1ab(i,ii,iii, v)+2ab(i,ii,iii,v); C2a(i,ii); D).
A first report of the presence of the Indian Wild Pig Sus scrofa cristatus from Kajinag Range, Kashmir, India
Authors: Ahmad Riyaz , Suhail Intesar , Bhatnagar Yash Veer
Published: March 2017

Eurasian wild pig Sus scrofa is a widely distributed terrestrial mammal. In India, wild pig occurs from peninsular to north India. In Jammu and Kashmir, wild pig was naturally distributed in Jammu region but is mostly introduced in the Kashmir valley and became common along the eastern foothills of Kashmir mountains with Dachigam NP holding the core population. But there have been no reports of its occurrence in northern foothills of Kashmir. We for the first time report the presence of wild pig in the Limber and Lacchipora Wildlife Sanctuaries of the Kajinag Range in northern Kashmir.
Impact of vehicular traffic on vertebrate fauna in Horton plains and Yala national parks of Sri Lanka: some implications for conservation and management
Authors: Karunarathna Suranjan , Ranwala Sudheera , Surasinghe Thilina , Madawala Majintha
Published: March 2017

Impacts of roadkills are extensively documented in developed nations.  Only a handful of studies on road mortality has emerged from developing nations where tourism and rural development have led to an expansion of transportation networks.  To fill such gaps, we conducted a survey to document roadkills in and around two tourism-heavy national parks of Sri Lanka and identified factors that contribute to road mortality.  Based on a questionnaire, we interviewed 68 local villagers, 56 local and 59 foreign visitors, and 57 safari drivers to document their opportunistic observations on roadkills, their awareness about roadkills, and to understand potential causes of roadkills.  We found 47 roadkilled vertebrate species at both parks; among these, 19 are threatened and 20 are endemic.  Our research revealed that herpetofauna were killed the most.  We concluded that increased visitation, high-speed driving, lack of awareness, and poor law enforcement as the likely causes of roadkills at both parks.  As mitigatory actions, we proposed posting speed limits, increasing awareness of the tourists and safari drivers, limiting vehicle access to the parks, seasonal or night-time access restrictions, and strict enforcement of the speed limits inside national parks.
Macrofungi in two botanical gardens in southwestern India
Authors: Pavithra Mundamoole , Sridhar Kandikere R. , Greeshma Ammatanda A.
Published: March 2017

This study reports 11 species of macrofungi in the botanical garden and arboretum of Mangalore University.  Frequent species include Clathrus delicatus, Entoloma serrulatum and Tetrapyrgos nigripes in the botanical garden, and Collybia aurea and T. nigripes in the arboretum. Five species are edible (Collybia aurea, Lepista sp., Russula adusta, R. atropurpurea and Termitomyces microcarpus), one is medicinal (T. microcarpus) and two are ectomycorrhizal (Russula adusta and R. atropurpurea) with critically endangered endemic tree species Vateria indica (Dipterocarpaceae).  Some macrofungi grow on bark, woody litter and leaf litter, while others were found on typical lateritic soils with organic matter.  Termitomyces microcarpus was common in the faecal pellets of termites in the botanical garden.  Brief descriptions of species based on field and laboratory observations, along with their substrates and distribution, are given.
Distribution pattern, population estimation and threats to the Indian Pangolin Manis crassicaudata (Mammalia: Pholidota: Manidae) in and around Pir Lasura National Park, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan
Authors: Akrim Faraz , Mahmood Tariq , Hussain Riaz , Qasim Siddiqa , Zangi Imad-ul-din
Published: March 2017

Baseline knowledge of distribution and abundance of a species whose population is facing decline throughout its distribution range is vital for its conservation planning. Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) is such a species which is Imperiled and lacking key biological studies in northern locale of Pakistan. We investigated distribution, abundance and threats faced by Indian pangolin in Pir Lasura National Park, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan. Indian pangolin has patchy distribution in and around the Park ranging from 590m-1540m elevation. A very low population (0.77±0.34 individuals/km2) of Indian pangolin were recorded from the Park. Local perception towards Indian pangolin was to a great extent negative. Slaughtering record of 446 pangolins were gathered. We recovered 12 dead pangolins, 10 jackets of scales. Furthermore, selling of 26 kg scales, 111 live pangolin captures and 313 killings were reported during 2013-2015. Local hunters were mainly involved in capturing and killing of Indian pangolin 90%, local farmers 8% (n=22) and labor 1%. We propose more studies ought to be led to improve comprehension of species and mindfulness instruction programs both by government and private sectors, to taught local communities living in and around Pir Lasura National Park for getting support for the species and to change their demeanors.
A report on some butterflies (Lepidoptera) from Ladakh in Jammu & Kashmir and Lahaul in Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Sondhi Sanjay , Valappil Balakrishnan , Sondhi Yash , Sondhi Anchal
Published: March 2017

Forty-two (42) species of butterflies were recorded from a short survey of Ladakh and Lahaul in the inner Himalaya in Jammu & Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh.  Here, we provide location and altitude records for these species, data on their abundance, photo-documentation of the life cycle of Pieris deota and P. brassicae as well as the first published record of a larval host plant for P. deota.  Twelve (12) of these species are protected under Schedule II of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
New distribution record of Nagarjunasagar Racer Platyceps bholanathi (Reptilia: Squamata: Colubridae) in Sigur, Nilgiris landscape, India
Authors: Samson Arockianathan , Santhoshkumar Palanisamy , Ramakrishnan Balasundaram , Karthick Sivaraj , Gnaneswar Chandrashekaruni
Published: March 2017

On 3 September 2016 at 15.30hr, we came across a dead snake on a rock in the Sigur (11.5312700N & 76.7697310E, elevation 945m) a rain-shadow area in the Nilgiris landscape, Tamil Nadu, India. This specimen is confirmed to be Platyceps bholanathi following major key characters with available literature. Our record is important because it not only significantly extends the range from earlier records but it is also the first report of this species from the Nilgiri Landscape. We believe that our present note will encourage further studies on this group.
β‐Adrenergic Stimulation Induces Histone Deacetylase 5 (HDAC5) Nuclear Accumulation in Cardiomyocytes by B55α‐PP2A‐Mediated Dephosphorylation
Authors: Weeks Kate L. , Ranieri Antonella , Karaś Agnieszka , Bernardo Bianca C. , Ashcroft Alexandra S. , Molenaar Chris , McMullen Julie R. , Avkiran Metin
Published: March 2017

Background

Class
II
a histone deacetylase (
HDAC
) isoforms such as
HDAC
5 are critical signal‐responsive repressors of maladaptive cardiomyocyte hypertrophy, through nuclear interactions with transcription factors including myocyte enhancer factor‐2. β‐Adrenoceptor (β‐
AR
) stimulation, a signal of fundamental importance in regulating cardiac function, has been proposed to induce both phosphorylation‐independent nuclear export and phosphorylation‐dependent nuclear accumulation of cardiomyocyte
HDAC
5. The relative importance of phosphorylation at Ser259/Ser498 versus Ser279 in
HDAC
5 regulation is also controversial. We aimed to determine the impact of β‐
AR
stimulation on the phosphorylation, localization, and function of cardiomyocyte
HDAC
5 and delineate underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods and Results

A novel 3‐dimensional confocal microscopy method that objectively quantifies the whole‐cell nuclear/cytoplasmic distribution of green fluorescent protein tagged
HDAC
5 revealed the β‐
AR
agonist isoproterenol to induce β
1
‐
AR
‐mediated and protein kinase A‐dependent
HDAC
5 nuclear accumulation in adult rat cardiomyocytes, which was accompanied by dephosphorylation at Ser259/279/498. Mutation of Ser259/Ser498 to Ala promoted
HDAC
5 nuclear accumulation and myocyte enhancer factor‐2 inhibition, whereas Ser279 ablation had no such effect and did not block isoproterenol‐induced nuclear accumulation. Inhibition of the Ser/Thr phosphatase
PP
2A blocked isoproterenol‐induced
HDAC
5 dephosphorylation. Co‐immunoprecipitation revealed a specific interaction of
HDAC
5 with the
PP
2A targeting subunit B55α, as well as catalytic and scaffolding subunits, which increased >3‐fold with isoproterenol. Knockdown of B55α in neonatal cardiomyocytes attenuated isoproterenol‐induced
HDAC
5 dephosphorylation.

Conclusions

β‐
AR
stimulation induces
HDAC
5 nuclear accumulation in cardiomyocytes by a mechanism that is protein kinase A‐dependent but requires B55α‐
PP
2A‐mediated dephosphorylation of Ser259/Ser498 rather than protein kinase A‐mediated phosphorylation of Ser279.
Keep your eye on the metaphor: The framing of the Common Core on Twitter
Authors: Supovitz Jonathan , Reinkordt Elisabeth
Published: March 2017

Issue framing is a powerful way for advocates to appeal to the value systems of constituency groups to evoke their support. Using a conceptual framework that focused on radial frames, metaphors, and lexical markers, we examined the linguistic choices that Common Core opponents used on Twitter to activate five central metaphors that reinforced the overall frame of the standards as a threat to children and appealed to the value systems of a diverse set of constituencies. In our research, we identified five frames: the Government Frame, which presented the Common Core as an oppressive government intrusion into the lives of citizens and appealed to limited-government conservatives; the Propaganda Frame, which depicted the standards as a means of brainwashing children, and in doing so, hearkened back to the cold war era when social conservatives positioned themselves as defenders of the national ethic; the War Frame, which portrayed the standards as a front in the nation’s culture wars and appealed to social and religious conservatives to protect traditional cultural values; the Business Frame, which rendered the standards as an opportunity for corporations to profit from public education and appealed to liberal opponents of business interests exploiting a social good; and the Experiment Frame, which used the metaphor of the standards as an experiment on children and appealed to the principle of care that is highly valued amongst social liberals. Collectively, these frames, and the metaphors and the language that triggered them, appealed to the value systems of both conservatives and liberals, and contributed to the broad coalition from both within and outside of education, which was aligned in opposition to the standards.
The discursive construction of superintendent statesmanship on Twitter
Authors: Hurst Todd M.
Published: March 2017

The modern school superintendent fulfills a unique role in the U.S. public education system. He or she is structurally empowered as the de facto head of the local educational system, thereby granted with a certain amount of trust and authority regarding educational issues. At the same time, the superintendent is, in most cases, an employee of a politically appointed school board. While norms have traditionally encouraged superintendents to use caution with respect to political discourse (Boyd, 1974), social media has created a new platform upon which they can reach a broad range of stakeholders regarding many issues, including politics. This study seeks to better understand the emerging practice of political discourse by superintendents on Twitter. Employing discursive psychology principles (Potter & Wetherell, 1992), I will analyze the political tweets of superintendents and position current practices in relation to established role conceptualizations of the position. Findings include that superintendents utilize Twitter as a tool to establish their positions as political insiders and as advocates for students.
Exploring the intersection of education policy and discourse analysis: An introduction
Authors: Lester Jessica Nina , Lochmiller Chad R. , Gabriel Rachael
Published: March 2017

In this article, we introduce the special issue focused on diverse perspectives to discourse analysis for education policy. This article lays the foundation for the special issue by introducing the notion of a third generation of policy research – a strand of policy research we argue is produced at the intersection of education policy and discourse analysis. We also very briefly discuss discourse analysis writ large, noting that there is no single definition or orientation. Then, we present the six articles included in the special issue, highlighting the ways in which they offer contemporary understandings of the varying applications of discourse analytic perspectives to the study of education policy. We conclude by discussing key policy and methodological implications, as well as future directions for policy scholars working at the intersection of education policy and discourse analysis.
COORDINATE TRANSFORMATION USING FEATHERSTONE AND VANÍČEK PROPOSED APPROACH - A CASE STUDY OF GHANA GEODETIC REFERENCE NETWORK
Authors: Ziggah Yao Yevenyo , Ayer John , Laari Prosper Basommi , Frimpong Eric
Published: March 2017

Most developing countries like Ghana are yet to adopt the geocentric datum for its surveying and mapping purposes. It is well known and documented that non-geocentric datums based on its establishment have more distortions in height compared with satellite datums. Most authors have argued that combining such height with horizontal positions (latitude and longitude) in the transformation process could introduce unwanted distortions to the network. This is because the local geodetic height in most cases is assumed to be determined to a lower accuracy compared with the horizontal positions. In the light of this, a transformation model was proposed by Featherstone and Vaníček (1999) which avoids the use of height in both global and local datums in coordinate transformation. It was confirmed that adopting such a method reduces the effect of distortions caused by geodetic height on the transformation parameters estimated. Therefore, this paper applied Featherstone and Vaníček (FV) model for the first time to a set of common points coordinates in Ghana geodetic reference network. The FV model was used to transform coordinates from global datum (WGS84) to local datum (Accra datum). The results obtained based on the Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) in both Eastings and Northings were satisfactory. Thus, a RMSE value of 0.66 m and 0.96 m were obtained for the Eastings and Northings while 0.76 m and 0.73 m were the MAE values achieved. Also, the FV model attained a transformation accuracy of 0.49 m. Hence, this study will serve as a preliminary investigation in avoiding the use of height in coordinate transformation within Ghana’s geodetic reference network.
Development and validation of a yoga module for Parkinson disease
Authors: Kakde Noopur , Metri Kashinath G. , Varambally Shivarama , Nagaratna Raghuram , Nagendra H.R.
Published: March 2017

Background

Parkinson’s disease (PD), a progressive neurodegenerative disease, affects motor and nonmotor functions, leading to severe debility and poor quality of life. Studies have reported the beneficial role of yoga in alleviating the symptoms of PD; however, a validated yoga module for PD is unavailable. This study developed and validated an integrated yoga module(IYM) for PD.

Methods

The IYM was prepared after a thorough review of classical yoga texts and previous findings. Twenty experienced yoga experts, who fulfilled the inclusion criteria, were selected validating the content of the IYM. A total of 28 practices were included in the IYM, and each practice was discussed and rated as (i) not essential, (ii) useful but not essential, and (iii) essential; the content validity ratio (CVR) was calculated using Lawshe’s formula.

Results

Data analysis revealed that of the 28 IYM practices, 21 exhibited significant content validity (cut-off value: 0.42, as calculated by applying Lawshe’s formula for the CVR).

Conclusions

The IYM is valid for PD, with good content validity. However, future studies must determine the feasibility and efficacy of the developed module.
A New Proposal for Ultra-Compact Polarization Independent Power Splitter Based on Photonic Crystal Structures
Authors: Razmi Hadi , Soroosh Mohammad , Kavian Yousef S.
Published: March 2017

Polarization dependency imposes great limitations for application of optical device in optical networks and systems. In this paper, we are going to design and propose a 1*2 all optical polarization independent power splitter based on photonic crystal structures. For designing such a device we should employ a fundamental photonic crystal structure which has joint photonic band gap. The obtained results show that at 1,560 nm wavelength the final structure has transmission efficiency equal to 45 % for outputs in both TE and TM modes.
Performance Analysis of Spectral Amplitude Coding Optical Code Division Multiple Access System using Modified Double Weight Codes with Adomian Decomposition Method
Authors: Rani Monika , Bhatti Harbax Singh , Singh Vikramjeet
Published: March 2017

In this manuscript, we have analyzed a Spectral Amplitude Coding-Optical Code Division Multiple Access (SAC-OCDMA) System. The system performance is enhanced by reducing the effect of Multiple Access Interference (MAI) using uniform Fiber Bragg Gratings (FBGs) encoders and decoders at central office and subscriber’s end. The results are verified through a mathematical model and Modified Double Weight (MDW) codes for the proposed system using Adomian Decomposition Method (ADM). Further, we have demonstrated SAC-OCDMA system for transmission of 40 Gbps data rate up to a distance of 80 km by increasing the number of FBGs. The proposed system has been analyzed in terms of distance, bit error rate (BER) and Quality Factor.
Hylomorphism and the Priority Principle
Authors: Skrzypek Jeremy W.
Published: March 2017

According to Jeffrey Brower’s hylomorphic account of material substances, prime matter and substantial forms together compose material substances, and material substances and accidental forms together compose accidental unities. In a recent article, Andrew Bailey has argued that Brower’s account has the counter-intuitive implication that no human person is ever the primary possessor, the primary thinker, of her own thoughts. In this paper, I consider various ways in which Brower might reply to this objection. I first consider several “invariant strategies”, solutions that do not require any significant alteration to Brower’s account. I argue that these strategies are unsuccessful. I then introduce two ways of modifying Brower’s hylomorphic account of material substances so as to avoid Bailey’s objection. I argue that these “variant strategies” are successful, but they require that Brower significantly alter one or more of the main features of his account.
High-response hybrid quantum dots- 2D conductor phototransistors: recent progress and perspectives
Authors: Sablon Kimberly A. , Sergeev Andrei , Najmaei Sina , Dubey Madan
Published: March 2017

Having been inspired by the tremendous progress in material nanoscience and device nanoengineering, hybrid phototransistors combine solution processed colloidal semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) with graphene or two-dimensional (2D) semiconductor materials. Novel detectors demonstrate ultrahigh photoconductive gain, high and selective photoresponse, low noise, and very high responsivity in visible- and near-infrared ranges. The outstanding performance of phototransistors is primarily due to the strong, selective, and size tunable absorption of QDs and fast charge transfer in 2D high mobility conductors. However, the relatively small mobility of QD nanomaterials was a technological barrier, which limited the operating rate of devices. Very recent innovations in detector design and significant progress in QD ligand engineering provide effective tools for further qualitative improvements. This article reviews the recent progress in material science, nanophysics, and device engineering related to hybrid phototransistors. Detectors based on various QD nanomaterials and several 2D conductors are compared, and advantages and disadvantages of various nanomaterials for applications in hybrid phototransistors are identified. We also benchmark the experimental characteristics with model results that establish interrelations and tradeoffs between detector characteristics, such as responsivity, dark and noise currents, the photocarrier lifetime, response, and noise bandwidths. We have shown that the most recent phototransistors demonstrate performance limited by the fundamental generation recombination noise in high gain devices. Interrelation between the dynamic range of the detector and the detector sensitivity is discussed. The review is concluded with a brief discussion of the remaining challenges and possible significant improvements in the performance of hybrid phototransistors.
Fabrication of bilayer resin-bonded fixed abrasive wires using the pultrusion process
Authors: Liou Yi-Shien , Luo Shenq-Yih
Published: March 2017

The fabrication of resin-bonded abrasive composite materials with constant cross-section was achieved by wire pultrusion wherein a piano wire of diameter 120 μm used as a core was pulled through a surface pretreatment, resin bath and into a die orifice and oven, where the impregnated resin slurry was cured at a moderate temperature. The bilayer resin-bonded fixed diamond wire with a diameter of about 191–205 μm with an inner layer of phenolic-modified epoxy resin and an outer layer of phenolic resin through the pultrusion method was presented. The results showed that when liquid resin slurry with higher diamond concentration during the pultrusion process was used, a larger wire diameter, less diamond spacing and higher diamond protrusion were obtained.
Effect of the particle diameter of the chemical foaming agent on the foaming process and the cellular structure of one-shot compression molded polyethylene foams
Authors: Tateishi Junichiro , Nishiwaki Tsuyoshi , Sukumaran Sathish K. , Sugimoto Masataka
Published: March 2017

We investigated the effect of varying the particle diameter and the particle content of a chemical foaming agent on the foaming process and the cellular structure of one-shot compression molded polyethylene foams. We foamed metallocene linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) crosslinked by dicumyl peroxide using azodicarbonamide (ADCA) as the foaming agent. We used a purpose-built metal mold equipped with a built-in pressure sensor to monitor the time evolution of the cavity pressure. The time dependence of the cavity pressure, which is indicative of the thermal decomposition of the ADCA, was s-shaped. The s-shaped time dependence of the cavity pressure indicates that, after an initial induction phase during which there is no thermal decomposition of the ADCA, the ADCA rapidly decomposes until the reaction is essentially complete. The cavity pressure at saturation, which corresponds to the mass of the generated gas, was linearly proportional to the ADCA content but only weakly dependent on the particle diameter of the ADCA. Upon decreasing the particle diameter of ADCA, rise in the cavity pressure at intermediate times, which indicates the thermal decomposition of the ADCA, began earlier and was faster. The cell size in the final foam decreased with a decrease in the particle diameter of the ADCA. The cell number density in the unfoamed samples (NF
) was proportional to the ADCA particle number density in the unfoamed samples (NC
), with a proportionality constant less than 1. A model for the foaming process where the ADCA particles nucleate cells and the nucleated cells then coalesce, thereby reducing the number of remaining cells, can offer an explanation for the observed proportionality between NF
and NC
and the proportionality constant being less than 1. Furthermore, it is proposed that cell coalescence occurs if the increase in the moduli of the LLDPE due to crosslinking is not sufficient to prevent the coalescence of the cells triggered by the rapid increase in the cavity pressure due to the rapid decomposition of ADCA.
Potential skin involvement in ALS: revisiting Charcot’s observation – a review of skin abnormalities in ALS
Authors: Paré Bastien , Gros-Louis François
Published: March 2017

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease affecting motor neurons of the brain and spinal cord, leading to progressive paralysis and death. Interestingly, many skin changes have been reported in ALS patients, but never as yet fully explained. These observations could be due to the common embryonic origin of the skin and neural tissue known as the ectodermal germ layer. Following the first observation in ALS patients’ skin by Dr Charcot in the 19th century, in the absence of bedsores unlike other bedridden patients, other morphological and molecular changes have been observed. Thus, the skin could be of interest in the study of ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. This review summarizes skin changes reported in the literature over the years and discusses about a novelin vitroALS tissue-engineered skin model, derived from patients, for the study of ALS.
On the Economic Effects of Disobeyed Regulation in Employment Law
Authors: Harel Alon , Procaccia Yuval , Ritov Ilana
Published: March 2017

Mandatory restrictions in employment law, seeking to promote the welfare of workers, are debated fiercely. Proponents argue that they protect workers. Opponents believe that they spawn inefficiency and harm workers. Yet all agree that restrictions trigger such effects only when obeyed. This Article challenges the conviction that the welfare effects of mandatory restrictions depend on obedience. We show experimentally that when restrictions are disobeyed, workers’ reservation wages rise, i. e., workers charge higher wages when offered employment that violates the restrictions. That, in turn, produces welfare effects similar in nature to those produced when restrictions are obeyed. This observation is therefore important to both proponents and opponents of employment regulation. We establish this claim experimentally by measuring the effects of disobeyed restrictions on workers’ reservation wages. We then investigate several hypotheses as to why these effects are generated. Last, we point out that our findings have important implications in other contexts of contractual regulation, such as in the domain of consumer protection.
Testing for asymmetry in betas of cumulative returns: Impact of the financial crisis and crude oil price
Authors: Kokoszka Piotr , Miao Hong , Zheng Ben
Published: March 2017

We introduce a functional factor model to investigate the dependence of cumulative return curves of individual assets on the market and other factors.
We propose a new statistical test to determine whether the dependence in two sample periods are equal.
The statistical properties of the test are established by asymptotic theory and simulations.
We apply this test to study the impact of the recent financial crisis and trends in oil price on individual stock and sector ETFs.
Our analysis reveals the significance of the daily oil futures curves and their different impact on individual stocks and sector ETFs.
It also shows that the functional approach has an information content different from that obtained from scalar factor models for point-to-point returns.
Efficient Removal of Cobalt from Aqueous Solution by Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles: Kinetic and Thermodynamic Studies
Authors: Khezami L. , Taha Kamal K. , Modwi A.
Published: March 2017

This article deals with the removal of cobalt ions using zinc oxide nanopowder. The nanomaterial was prepared via the sol–gel method under supercritical drying. The nanomaterial was characterised via XRD, SEM, EDX, FTIR, and BET surface area techniques. The kinetics, equilibrium, and thermodynamic studies of the metal ions adsorption on the nanomaterial were conducted in batch mode experiments by varying some parameters such as pH, contact time, initial ion concentrations, nanoparticles dose, and temperature. The data revealed significant dependence of the adsorption process on concentration, and the temperature was found to enhance the adsorption rate indicating an endothermic nature of the adsorption. The adsorption complied well with the pseudo-second-order kinetics model. The adsorption process was found to match the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The ZnO nanoparticles could successfully remove up to 125 mg·g−1 of Co(II) ions at elevated temperature. The metal ions adsorption could be described as an endothermic, spontaneous physisorption process. A mechanism for the metal ions adsorption was proposed.
Mudskipper fishing in the coast of Bhavnagar, Gulf of Khambhat, Gujarat, India
Authors: Kanejiya Jignesh , Solanki Devendra , Beleem Imtiyaz , Gohil Bharatsinh
Published: March 2017

Coastal areas of Bhavnagar district harbors wide range of ichthyofaunal diversity and diverse fisheries resources. The fishermen in this area use wide range of fishing methods and gears, which evolved traditionally and being adept extensively in Bhavnagar coastline. Livelihood of these fishermen is almost entirely depends on mudskipper fishing and they employ three types of fishing methods to catch them i.e. direct catch through digging the burrow, stick traps around mudskipper holes, and by nylon net. Fishing by using nylon net is the most commonly used method compared to others.
The relationship of basic human values and voting behavior
Authors: Tatarko A.N.
Published: March 2017

The present study is aimed at investigating the relations between the basic individual values of Russians and their political behavior, which based on electoral behavior and electoral attitudes. In our study we use a method based on the theory of basic human values in order to understand by which universal human values Russians are guided and driven when choosing a particular candidate for the presidency of the Russian Federation. An empirical study based on the results of a representative survey in two Federal districts of Russia, held shortly after the elections. The empirical analysis showed basic values of respondents are related to their political preferences. The study showed that, firstly, the main opposition of values associated with the results of the election, is "conservation" — "openness to change". Secondly, voting for most candidates is associated with the values of "conservation", which indicates the absence of significant differences in the values transmitted by Russian policies. This paper considers which of the values are prompted the electorate to vote for each of the candidates (Putin, Zuganov, Prokhorov, Zhirinovsy, and Mironov).

The article was prepared within the framework of the Basic Research Program at the National Research Univer- sity Higher School of Economics (HSE) and supported within the framework of a subsidy granted to the HSE by the Government of the Russian Federation for the implementation of the Global Competitiveness Program.
Sociopsychological factors affecting the relationship satisfaction in young married couples
Authors: Sychev O.A.
Published: March 2017

Relationship satisfaction may be considered as a general assessment based on the emotional experience in marital relationships. The results of theoretical analysis show that the main and direct reason of negative emotions in relationships is frustration of psychological needs. Satisfaction of these needs in spouses’ life is connected with individual differences in attachment and love. Based on these ideas we suggested hypothesis that connection of attachment style with relationship satisfaction is explained by frustration of basic psychological needs of people with insecure attachment style. To check this hypothesis we tested 68 couples, 30 of them were married and 38 cohabited. Relationship satisfaction measured using RAS by Hendrick highly correlated with basic needs satisfaction (measured using Need satisfaction scale by La Guardia) and attachment style (measured using the Russian version of ECR by Sabel'nikova and Kashirskii). The results of structural equation modeling led to the conclusion that negative association of anxious attachment with relationship satisfaction was totally explained by frustration of basic needs (first of all, need for relatedness) while the negative effect of avoidant attachment was accounted for frustration partially. Also it was shown that people with avoidant attachment experience more frustration of need for autonomy in marital relationships.

This work was supported by the Russian Foundation for Basic Research, project 15-16-22003.