bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
THE RESEARCH AND EDUCATION COLLABORATIVE OCCULTATION NETWORK: A SYSTEM FOR COORDINATED TNO OCCULTATION OBSERVATIONS
Authors: Buie Marc W. , Keller John M.
Published: February 2016

We describe a new system and method for collecting coordinated occultation observations of trans-Neptunian objects (TNOs). Occultations by objects in the outer solar system are more difficult to predict due to their large distance and limited span of the astrometric data used to determine their orbits and positions. This project brings together the research and educational community into a unique citizen-science partnership to overcome the difficulties of observing these distant objects. The goal of the project is to get sizes and shapes for TNOs with diameters larger than 100 km. As a result of the system design it will also serve as a probe for binary systems with spatial separations as small as contact systems. Traditional occultation efforts strive to get a prediction sufficiently good to place mobile ground stations in the shadow track. Our system takes a new approach of setting up a large number of fixed observing stations and letting the shadows come to the network. The nominal spacing of the stations is 50 km so that we ensure two chords at our limiting size. The spread of the network is roughly 2000 km along a roughly north–south line in the western United States. The network contains 56 stations that are committed to the project and we get additional ad hoc support from International Occultation Timing Association members. At our minimum size, two stations will record an event while the other stations will be probing the inner regions for secondary events. Larger objects will get more chords and will allow determination of shape profiles. The stations are almost exclusively sited and associated with schools, usually at the 9–12 grade level. We present a full description of the system we have developed for the continued exploration of the Kuiper Belt.
THE CDF ARCHIVE: HERSCHEL PACS AND SPIRE SPECTROSCOPIC DATA PIPELINE AND PRODUCTS FOR PROTOSTARS AND YOUNG STELLAR OBJECTS
Authors: Green Joel D. , Yang Yao-Lun , II Neal J. Evans , Karska Agata , Herczeg Gregory , Dishoeck Ewine F. van , Lee Jeong-Eun , Larson Rebecca L. , Bouwman Jeroen
Published: February 2016

We present the COPS-DIGIT-FOOSH (CDF) Herschel spectroscopy data product archive, and related ancillary data products, along with data fidelity assessments, and a user-created archive in collaboration with the Herschel-PACS and SPIRE ICC groups. Our products include datacubes, contour maps, automated line fitting results, and best 1D spectra products for all protostellar and disk sources observed with PACS in RangeScan mode for two observing programs: the DIGIT Open Time Key Program (KPOT_nevans_1 and SDP_nevans_1; PI: N. Evans), and the FOOSH Open Time Program (OT1_jgreen02_2; PI: J. Green). In addition, we provide our best SPIRE-FTS spectroscopic products for the COPS Open Time Program (OT2_jgreen02_6; PI: J. Green) and FOOSH sources. We include details of data processing, descriptions of output products, and tests of their reliability for user applications. We identify the parts of the data set to be used with caution. The resulting absolute flux calibration has improved in almost all cases. Compared to previous reductions, the resulting rotational temperatures and numbers of CO molecules have changed substantially in some sources. On average, however, the rotational temperatures have not changed substantially (<2%), but the number of warm (T
rot ∼ 300 K) CO molecules has increased by about 18%.
FEELING THE PULL: A STUDY OF NATURAL GALACTIC ACCELEROMETERS. I. PHOTOMETRY OF THE DELICATE STELLAR STREAM OF THE PALOMAR 5 GLOBULAR CLUSTER*
Authors: Ibata Rodrigo A. , Lewis Geraint F. , Martin Nicolas F.
Published: February 2016

We present an analysis of wide-field photometric surveys of the Palomar 5 globular cluster and its stellar stream, based on

- and

-band measures together with narrow-band DDO 51 photometry. In this first study, we use the deep (g, r) data to measure the incidence of gaps and peaks along the stream. Examining the star-counts profile of the stream plus contaminating populations, we find no evidence for significant underdensities, and find only a single significant overdensity. This is at odds with earlier studies based on matched-filter maps derived from shallower SDSS data if the contaminating population possesses plausible spatial properties. The lack of substantial substructure along the stream may be used in future dynamical simulations to examine the incidence of dark matter sub-halos in the Galactic halo. We also present a measurement of the relative distances along the stream, which we use to create the deepest wide-field map of this system to date.
MARGINALIZING INSTRUMENT SYSTEMATICS IN HST WFC3 TRANSIT LIGHT CURVES
Authors: Wakeford H. R. , Sing D. K. , Evans T. , Deming D. , Mandell A.
Published: February 2016

Hubble Space Telescope (HST) Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3) infrared observations at 1.1–1.7 μm probe primarily the H2O absorption band at 1.4 μm, and have provided low-resolution transmission spectra for a wide range of exoplanets. We present the application of marginalization based on Gibson to analyze exoplanet transit light curves obtained from HST WFC3 to better determine important transit parameters such as R

p
/R
*, which are important for accurate detections of H2O. We approximate the evidence, often referred to as the marginal likelihood, for a grid of systematic models using the Akaike Information Criterion. We then calculate the evidence-based weight assigned to each systematic model and use the information from all tested models to calculate the final marginalized transit parameters for both the band-integrated and spectroscopic light curves to construct the transmission spectrum. We find that a majority of the highest weight models contain a correction for a linear trend in time as well as corrections related to HST orbital phase. We additionally test the dependence on the shift in spectral wavelength position over the course of the observations and find that spectroscopic wavelength shifts

best describe the associated systematic in the spectroscopic light curves for most targets while fast scan rate observations of bright targets require an additional level of processing to produce a robust transmission spectrum. The use of marginalization allows for transparent interpretation and understanding of the instrument and the impact of each systematic evaluated statistically for each data set, expanding the ability to make true and comprehensive comparisons between exoplanet atmospheres.
EXPLORING THE ORIGINS OF DEUTERIUM ENRICHMENTS IN SOLAR NEBULAR ORGANICS
Authors: Cleeves L. Ilsedore , Bergin Edwin A. , Alexander Conel M. O’D. , Du Fujun , Graninger Dawn , Öberg Karin I. , Harries Tim J.
Published: February 2016

Deuterium-to-hydrogen (D/H) enrichments in molecular species provide clues about their original formation environment. The organic materials in primitive solar system bodies generally have higher D/H ratios and show greater D/H variation when compared to D/H in solar system water. We propose this difference arises at least in part due to (1) the availability of additional chemical fractionation pathways for organics beyond that for water, and (2) the higher volatility of key carbon reservoirs compared to oxygen. We test this hypothesis using detailed disk models, including a sophisticated, new disk ionization treatment with a low cosmic-ray ionization rate, and find that disk chemistry leads to higher deuterium enrichment in organics compared to water, helped especially by fractionation via the precursors CH2D+/CH3
+. We also find that the D/H ratio in individual species varies significantly depending on their particular formation pathways. For example, from ∼20–40 au, CH4 can reach

, while D/H in CH3OH remains locally unaltered. Finally, while the global organic D/H in our models can reproduce intermediately elevated D/H in the bulk hydrocarbon reservoir, our models are unable to reproduce the most deuterium-enriched organic materials in the solar system, and thus our model requires some inheritance from the cold interstellar medium from which the Sun formed.
RAPIDLY RISING TRANSIENTS FROM THE SUBARU HYPER SUPRIME-CAM TRANSIENT SURVEY*
Authors: Tanaka Masaomi , Tominaga Nozomu , Morokuma Tomoki , Yasuda Naoki , Furusawa Hisanori , Baklanov Petr V. , Blinnikov Sergei I. , Moriya Takashi J. , Doi Mamoru , Jiang Ji-an , Kato Takahiro , Kikuchi Yuki , Kuncarayakti Hanindyo , Nagao Tohru , Nomoto Ken’ichi , Taniguchi Yuki
Published: February 2016

We present rapidly rising transients discovered by a high-cadence transient survey with the Subaru telescope and Hyper Suprime-Cam. We discovered five transients at z = 0.384–0.821, showing a rate of rise faster than 1 mag per day in the restframe near-ultraviolet wavelengths. The fast rate of rise and brightness are most similar to SN 2010aq and PS1-13arp, for which ultraviolet emission was detected within a few days after the shock breakout. The lower limit of the event rate of rapidly rising transients is ∼9% of core-collapse supernova rates, assuming the duration of rapid rise to be 1 day. We show that the light curves of the three faint objects agree with the cooling envelope emission from the explosion of red supergiants. The other two luminous objects, however, are brighter and faster than the cooling envelope emission. We interpret these two objects to be the shock breakout from a dense wind with a mass loss rate of ∼10−3

yr−1, as also proposed for PS1-13arp. This mass loss rate is higher than that typically observed for red supergiants. The event rate of these luminous objects is ≳1% of the core-collapse supernova rate, and thus our study implies that more than ∼1% of massive stars can experience intense mass loss a few years before the explosion.
PROPERTIES AND DETECTION LIMITS OF PLANETARY CAUSTIC PERTURBATION INDUCED BY A WIDE-SEPARATION PLANET
Authors: Ryu Yoon-Hyun , Chung Sun-Ju , Lee Ki-Won , Kim Han-Seek , Han Du-Hwan
Published: February 2016

Microlensing experiments are entering a next generation of survey types to monitor a wide field of view continuously with a frequent sampling. The theoretically predicted sensitivity of a planet detection on the lensing parameters can be used for the establishment of observational strategies for maximal planet detections. Hence, we investigate the detection condition of planetary signals caused by the planetary caustic. We calculate the deviation area induced by the planetary caustic for various lensing parameters and find that the deviation area generally increases according to the increase of the source radius. However, after the normalized source radius approaches a certain value the deviation area rapidly decreases and disappears at the same normalized source radius, regardless of the mass ratio and the separation between the planet and its host star. We find a simple relation between the normalized source radius and the deviation threshold for the largest and smallest deviation areas. From this relation we also find an analytic condition for the detection limit of the planetary signal as the function of the source radius and the deviation threshold. In addition, we compare the deviation areas and the light curves between the planetary caustic perturbation and a free-floating planet. We find that the planetary caustic perturbation can be approximated by the single-lensing light curve of the planet itself perturbed by the planetary caustic. Finally, we can expect to find a low-mass planet with the Earth’s mass or even that of the Earth's moon from the detection condition and conclude that our findings may help for maximal planet detections considering the source type and the photometric accuracy.
Innovative Authoring Tools for Online-Courses with Assignments - Integrating Heterogeneous Tools of e-Learning Platforms into Hybrid Application Solutions
Authors: Then Matthias , Wallenborn Benjamin , Ianniello Birgit R. , Binh Vu Duc , Fuchs Michael , Hemmje Matthias L.
Published: February 2016

This paper is concerned with an essential topic in e-learning - course content authoring. Besides supporting the concept of Competence-Based Learning (CBL) our solution is aiming to make effective use of an open integration architecture fostering the interoperability of hybrid e-learning solutions. Modern scenarios ask for interoperable software solutions to seamlessly integrate existing e-learning infrastructures and legacy tools with innovative technologies while being cognitively efficient to handle. In this way, prospective users are enabled to use them seamlessly without learning overheads. At the same time, methods of Learning Design (LD) in combination with CBL are getting more and more important to produce and maintain easy to facilitate solutions. Our approach of developing a competence-based course-authoring and assignment-support software bridges the gaps between Moodle and established legacy infrastructures by embedding existing legacy tools via Learning Tools Interoperability (LTI). The underlying conceptual architecture for this integration approach and its components will be introduced; furthermore a Moodle plugin will be outlined, which enables Moodle for LD- and CBL-support including corresponding data exchange with our course authoring tool. The paper concludes with an outlook on future plans for our research and development.
Microstructure and Properties of Cast Metal Treated with Electromagnetic Pulses while in Molten State
Authors: Krymsky V.V. , Shaburova N.A. , Litvinova E.V.
Published: February 2016

The results of experiments on the impact of high power electromagnetic pulses (EMP) on the metal alloy melts are discussed. A generator with the following pulse parameters: the amplitude of 10 kV, the duration of 1 ns, the leading edge of 0.1 ns, repetition rate of 1 kHz was used for pulse electric treatment of metal melts. The maximum network input of the generator equals 100 watts. The treatment was carried out in a furnace immediately before casting. The treatment of the melt by electromagnetic pulses is conducted for 10-15 minutes. Comparative analysis of treated and untreated samples showed a change in structure, density, strength, ductility, and toughness of the cast metal. The mechanism of stepping impact on the metal melts was discussed. Analysis of the results of other external physical melt impact methods showed that the overall match is observed with the results of the ultrasonic treatment of metals. Therefore, the hypothesis of the pulse ultrasonic shock wave generation at the front was accepted as the basis-hypothesis for the mechanism of the impact of electromagnetic pulses on the melt. In the theoretical part of the paper a model of electromagnetic pulses conversion in acoustic pulses is proposed.
A Study of Flat Hot-Deformed Semiproducts Аl-Мg-Mn-Sc-Zr Microstructure, Phase Composition, Crystalline Structure and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Reznik P.L. , Chikova O.A. , Ovsyannikov B.V.
Published: February 2016

The article investigates the influence of additional thermal treatment of an ingot before deformation on the microstructure, phase composition, crystalline structure, and mechanical properties of flat hot deformed semi-finished products made from Al-Mg-Mn-Sc-Zr aluminum alloy and presents the results obtained. Additional thermal processing of ingots before deformation was carried out in order to increase the level of the mechanical properties of semiproducts. Mechanical properties testing was carried out for both large-sized specimens and for sub-micro volumes of α-aluminum crystalline particles.
Experiments on Obtaining Nanostructured Metallic Materials and their Investigation
Authors: Anikeev A.N. , Sergeev D.V. , Chumanov I.V.
Published: February 2016

This paper describes experiments on the introduction of fine particles in the melt is crystallized in the preparation of centrifugally cast billets. To predict the distribution of particles in the crystallizing melt was conducted mathematical modeling of the process. To confirm the data obtained by mathematical modeling experiments were conducted to obtain a centrifugal-cast billets with the introduction of fine particles. The investigation of the microstructure of the samples obtained. Comparing the data obtained about the conduct of computer simulation and real experiment, the distribution of particles in the melt crystallizing. In conclusion, this article presents the findings of the work done.
Principles of Controlled Exposure in Semiconductor Materials Science of Low-Dimensional Systems
Authors: Blagin A.V. , Lunina M.L. , Kozaeva A.G.
Published: February 2016

The article discusses the principles of controlled technological influence the knowledge of which allows a researcher to effectively plan pilot studies in materials science and technologies of electronic equipment. The following principles are defined: uses of different temporary scales of thermodynamic processes; a choice of spatial scale to carry the influence; compliances of a set of influence parameters to a range of system reactions and accounting of inertia of processes heat and mass transfer in two-phase systems. The importance of finding the ways to organize the researchers in the optimum way is exemplified with a certain experiment.
Experimental Study and Thermodynamic Modeling of Phase Equilibria in BaO-Fe2O3 System
Authors: Vinnik D.A. , Trofimov E.A. , Zherebtsov D.A.
Published: February 2016

This paper presents the results of the synthesis of compounds of BaO-Fe2O3 system and the results of the study of nature and the melting temperatures of the resulting compounds. Based on the analysis of published data, as well as the results of our studies the systematization of information on the BaO-Fe2O3 system was conducted and an updated phase diagram of this system was proposed.
Residual Stress Measurements Using Elasto-Plastic Indentation and ESPI
Authors: Ignatiev A.G. , Erofeev V.V. , Tretyakov A.A.
Published: February 2016

This paper presents a method for residual stress measurement using elasto-plastic contact indentation. This method for measuring residual stresses uses data on normal displacements in a bulging area around indentation. It is shown that magnitude and distribution of normal displacements is affected by magnitude and sign of residual stresses. Basic equations describing formation of bulging area around indentation are presented. To record distribution of displacements ESPI-method is used. The main elements of the technique for residual stress measurement using developed method are shown. The method is recommended to be used in the practice of scientific research organizations in the development, improvement and debugging techniques for renovation and hardening of parts.
The Study of Conditions for the Silicon Carbide Crystals Formation in the Complex Composition Metal Melt
Authors: Trofimov E.A. , Samoilova O.V.
Published: February 2016

The results of thermodynamic modeling and experimental studies are presented in this article. The aim of this work is to determine the conditions of silicon carbide crystals synthesis in the complex composition metal melts. The "FactSage" software was used for thermodynamic modeling. The phase diagrams, in the form of liquidus surfaces, allow determining the metal composition with minimum melting temperature and presenting the ranges of concentrations and temperatures for which the equilibrium product of the interaction between the components of the metal melt is silicon carbide. The results of experimental research confirmed the possibility of growing silicon carbide crystals in the complex metal melts at low temperatures. The results of the obtained sample of complex alloy examination (conducted with the scanning electron microscope JEOL JSM–6460LV with a energy dispersion spectrometer by "Oxford Instruments" used for performing qualitative and quantitative microprobe analysis) helped to reveal the crystals corresponding to SiC composition.
Qualitative Identification of Alloys of Precious Metals by Means of Adaptive Changes the Mode Polarization
Authors: Lipkin S.M. , Elsukov V.S. , Lachin V.I.
Published: February 2016

This article is about adaptive adjustment of reaction conditions in local electrochemical rapid analysis. These conditions include in-situ current correction during pulse chronopotentiogram mesuarements. Optimal values of correction parameters were obtained by steep ascent optimization method. Treatment of gold alloys chronopotentiograms was made by the decomposition modeling method. As a result, application of a probe current adjustment system to chronopotentiometry process allows more than 3-time increase in reproducibility of experimental results. The most significant factors in optimizing the parameters of the proposed system are the slope of the linear regression coefficient of the reaction system.
Thermodynamics of Crystallizing Low-Alloy Boron Steel Melt Components Interaction
Authors: Tanklevskaya N.M. , Maznichevsky A.N.
Published: February 2016

Thermodynamic analysis of the phase equilibria in the Fe–Mn–Cr–Si–Al–Ti– Ni–V–Mo–B–S–P–C–N–O system at fixed concentrations of boron, manganese, chromium, silicon, aluminum, titanium, nickel, vanadium, molybdenum, sulfur, phosphorus, carbon and nitrogen was performed. Formation of nonmetallic phases upon cooling and crystallization of liquid metal solutions of various compositions was studied. It was established how aluminum and nitrogen content in the liquid metal solution affects the composition and amount of separated excess phases. Calculations demonstrated that boron nitride was not formed in the liquid metal and during crystallization.
Glass-Ceramic Materials and Coatings Providing Steel Household Products with the Desired Properties
Authors: Ryabova A.V. , Klimova L.V. , Filatova E.V.
Published: February 2016

The possibility of production of white cover glass-enamel coatings for steel products has been considered. A number of compositions of glass-enamel coatings has been worked out. The obtained samples have been subjected to tests for corrosion resistance, temperature resistance and whiteness index. The peculiarities of crystallization in white cover glass-enamel coatings have been revealed. It is shown that the produced cover glass-enamel coatings for steel products conform to all requirements of GOST R 52569-2006. The application of RGB color model has been considered to determine the color hues of the white enamel coatings.
Improving the Process of High-Temperature Processing Steel-Smelting Dump Slag by Means of Experimental and Theoretical Research
Authors: Chumanov I.V. , Trofimov Evgeny A. , Dildin A.N.
Published: February 2016

The aim of this work is conducting theoretical and experimental research of the processes and modes of high-temperature processing of steel slags for more complete extraction of the metal component. "FactSage" software complex (version 6.4) was used to execute the thermodynamic modeling of the processes occurring during the recovery of metals from steelmaking slags. The experimental research included experiments on solid-phase and liquid-phase recovery of slag samples at the temperatures of 1000 – 1500 °C. The results of thermodynamic modeling and experimental high-temperature slag processing allows speaking about the advisability of preliminary solid-phase recovery slag in the atmosphere of carbon monoxide with subsequent high-temperature (liquid phase) recovery to obtain separate metal fractions.
Ground Granulated Blast-Furnace Slag and its Activation Methods
Authors: Trofimov B.Ya. , Schuldyakov K.V.
Published: February 2016

. The ground granulated slag is a wide spread component of various types of cement and binding substances. Its pozzolanic activity depends on different factors. It is searched out, that there are no minerals able to liquid maturing in the slag under consideration, the slag activity data according to domestic and foreign standards specifies it as low-active, third rate. Altering the chemical composition to a small degree, specific to a definite type of slag, does not alter its functioning much. The same stands for the slag dispersiveness at the high rate of amorphous state – the dispersiveness rise increases slag activity and water demand, and more dispersed slag does not increase the resistibility of matrix samples in high-flow concrete mix. Thus, this type of slag is supposed to be grounded up to BET surface area equal to 250-300 m2/kg, compared to dispersive capacity СEM 1, and the substitution of a part of cement by slag would not have a significant ifluence on mix water demand. With the increase in the slag content within the cementing component the slag effectiveness index increases and reaches its maximum at 70% cement replacement by slag. A large portion of slag can substantially decrease the hydration of lime in the hardened cement paste of the concrete and lessen the solidity of reinforcement corrosion protection in concrete structures. The article deals with different methods of ground granulated blastfurnace slag activation within the mixed cementing substance: Portland-cement CEM1 + GGBFS. The most widely used way of activation – the usage of sodium and potassium alkalies and liquid glass is quite effective, but it demands expensive artificial components, while the alkali compounds forming at hardening of such a cementing component would be soluble.
Increase in Wear Resistance by Introduction of Titanium Carbide Dispersed Particles
Authors: Anikeev A.N. , Seduhin V.V. , Sergeev D.V.
Published: February 2016

The efficiency of construction equipment used depends on the durability of parts in it. In this paper the experimental technology of hardening of the blades of the mixer hard concrete mixtures SG-750 production "Factory Stroytechnika" particulate titanium carbide, by pre bookmark particles in a polystyrene model. Described the progress and results of the experiment in the enterprise "Repair and Mechanical Plant Nihard-Service" to obtain hardened blades in Zlatoust. After obtaining a study was made of the microstructure of samples taken from different areas of reinforced blades. Shows the results of a study of abrasive wear resistance of sample blades in the laboratory.
Local Doping of Semiconductor Crystals by Thermomigration
Authors: Lozovskiy V.N. , Seredin B.M. , Arkhipova N.Yu.
Published: February 2016

The article includes the analysis of the features related to local doping of silicon using electrically active doping agents by thermomigration of binary and ternary liquid zones as compared to doping by diffusion. The concentration range of doping by binary zone migration is found to be substantially narrower than that of doping by diffusion. Introduction of a third component to the liquid phase ena-bles expansion of the thermomigration doping range to the values exceeding the diffusion doping range by the same doping agent. For silicon crystals, this technological feature of thermomigration is produced by using GaxAl1-xSi and SnxAl1-xSi ternary zones. The crystal doping rate by thermomigration in techno-logically relevant situations was shown to exceed the rate of diffusion doping by orders of magnitude. The layers doped by thermomigration of stably moving liquid zones are structurally more perfect than diffusion layers.
Electrochemical Oxide Films Corrosion Properties Diagnosis System for the Thermal Power Equipment Heating Surfaces
Authors: Kozlova T.V. , Lipkina T.V. , Sedov A.V.
Published: February 2016

This article describes the electrochemical diagnosys system of oxide films corrosion properties of the thermal power equipment heating surfaces. It was found that the formation of oxide films on carbon steel surface in boiling water includes active dissolution with subsequent thermal conversion of the dissolution products into iron oxide (II). Forming films properties such as porosity and roughness change in multi repeating way, which includes the alternation of loosening and consolidation processes.
Introduction of a bowser for the transportation of fish seed in Sri Lanka: Impacts and economics
Authors: Chandrasoma Jayantha , Pushpalatha Chandrani
Published: February 2016

Under the Aquatic Resource Development and Quality Improvement Project (ARDQIP) of the Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Recourses of Sri Lanka, which was implemented during 2003-2010, a greater emphasis was laid on the development of culture-based fisheries (CBF) and activities aimed at enhancing fish seed production in the country. One of the foremost needs was to improve facilities for transport of fish seed to meet the envisaged increase in fish seed production and related stocking in remote areas.ARDQIP was instrumental in designing and introduction of a fish seed transport vehicle (bowser), and this mode of fish seed transport has become very popular in the country. At present, over 90% of fish seed transport is carried out using bowsers. Introduction of this bowser has made fish seed transport process easier, efficient and economical. The use of the bowser has prevented pollution due to non-necessity of using a large quantity of polythene for packing, making this practice environmentally friendly. Availability of fish seed transport bowsers facilitated enhanced stocking of water bodies and facilitated the development of CBF in Sri Lanka. Design and the features of the fish seed transport bowser are described in this paper together with discussion on its impact, advantages, disadvantages and economics.
The potential benefits of rainwater harvesting for households in the Jaffna Peninsula
Authors: Rink Paul , Semasinghe Christina , Manthrithilake Herath
Published: February 2016

Recent development activities in the Jaffna Peninsula are threatening the viability of the region’s natural groundwater supply. Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) represents one important approach to remedying this situation. By accumulating freshwater during Jaffna’s wet season, household RWH systems can supply drinking and cooking water for use during the water-limited dry season. Additionally, a RWH calculator created by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) can be used to customize a RWH system for each family given particular household parameters such as rooftop size and daily extraction rate. When paired with cost estimates for tank construction, a RWH installation cost-benefit analysis can be determined for either a specific household or for a collection of households within the Jaffna region.
Ascaris lumbricoides Infection Following School-Based Deworming in Western Kenya: Assessing the Role of Pupils' School and Home Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Exposures
Authors: Garn Joshua V. , Mwandawiro Charles S. , Nikolay Birgit , Drews-Botsch Carolyn D. , Kihara Jimmy H. , Brooker Simon J. , Simiyu Elses W. , Okoyo Collins , Freeman Matthew C.
Published: February 2016

Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WaSH) technologies and behaviors can prevent infection by soil-transmitted helminth species independently, but may also interact in complex ways. However, these interactions are poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to characterize how school and home WaSH exposures were associated with Ascaris lumbricoides infection and to identify relevant interactions between separate WaSH technologies and behaviors. A study was conducted among 4,404 children attending 51 primary schools in western Kenya. We used multivariable mixed effects logistic regression to characterize how various WaSH exposures were associated with A. lumbricoides infection after annual school-based deworming. Few WaSH behaviors and technologies were independently associated with A. lumbricoides infection. However, by considering relevant interdependencies between variables, important associations were elucidated. The association between handwashing and A. lumbricoides depended largely upon the pupils' access to an improved water source. Among pupils who had access to improved water sources, A. lumbricoides prevalence was lower for those who handwashed both at school and home compared with neither place (odds ratio: 0.38, 95% confidence interval: 0.18–0.83; P = 0.01). This study contributes to a further understanding of the impact of WaSH on A. lumbricoides infection and shows the importance of accounting for interactions between WaSH technologies and behaviors.
A Health Care Worker with Ebola Virus Disease and Adverse Prognostic Factors Treated in Sierra Leone
Authors: O'Shea Matthew K. , Clay Katherine A. , Craig Darren G. , Moore Alastair J. , Lewis Stephen , Espina Melanie , Praught Jeff , Horne Simon , Kao Raymond , Johnston Andrew M.
Published: February 2016

We describe the management of a Sierra Leonean health care worker with severe Ebola virus disease complicated by diarrhea, significant electrolyte disturbances, and falciparum malaria coinfection. With additional resources and staffing, high quality care can be provided to patients with Ebola infection and adverse prognostic factors in west Africa.
Surveying the Knowledge and Practices of Health Professionals in China, India, Iran, and Mexico on Treating Tuberculosis
Authors: Hoffman Steven J. , Guindon G. Emmanuel , Lavis John N. , Randhawa Harkanwal , Becerra-Posada Francisco , Dejman Masoumeh , Falahat Katayoun , Malek-Afzali Hossein , Ramachandran Parasurama , Shi Guang , Yesudian C. A. K.
Published: February 2016

Research evidence continues to reveal findings important for health professionals' clinical practices, yet it is not consistently disseminated to those who can use it. The resulting deficits in knowledge and service provision may be especially pronounced in low- and middle-income countries that have greater resource constraints. Tuberculosis treatment is an important area for assessing professionals' knowledge and practices because of the effectiveness of existing treatments and recognized gaps in professionals' knowledge about treatment. This study surveyed 384 health professionals in China, India, Iran, and Mexico on their knowledge and practices related to tuberculosis treatment. Few respondents correctly answered all five knowledge questions (12%) or self-reported performing all five recommended clinical practices “often or very often” (3%). Factors associated with higher knowledge scores included clinical specialization and working with researchers. Factors associated with better practices included training in the care of tuberculosis patients, being based in a hospital, trusting systematic reviews of randomized controlled double-blind trials, and reading summaries of articles, reports, and reviews. This study highlights several strategies that may prove effective in improving health professionals' knowledge and practices related to tuberculosis treatment. Facilitating interactions with researchers and training in acquiring systematic reviews may be especially helpful.
Intralesional Pentamidine: A Novel Therapy for Single Lesions of Bolivian Cutaneous Leishmaniasis
Authors: Soto Jaime , Paz David , Rivero Daniela , Soto Paula , Quispe Jorge , Toledo Julia , Berman Jonathan
Published: February 2016

A novel therapy, intralesional (IL) pentamidine, was compared to intralesional therapy with antimony (ILSb), a World Health Organization–recommended therapy, for single Bolivian Leishmania braziliensis lesions. In Study 1, 90 patients were randomized equally between three injections of ILSb over 5 days, five injections of ILSb over 11 days, and three injections of IL pentamidine (120 μg/mm2 lesion area [ILPenta-120-3]) over 5 days. Cure rates at 6 months were 57% for ILSb-3 injections, 73% for ILSb-5 injections, and 72% for ILPenta-120-3 injections. Adverse effects were local irritation and injection-site pain—ILSb (60 patients): mild (25), moderate (4); IL pentamidine (30 patients): mild (4), moderate (3). In Study 2, 60 patients were randomized equally between five injections of ILSb and three injections of a double dose of IL pentamidine (240 μg/mm2 [ILPenta-240-3]). In Study 2, cure rates were 67% for ILSb-5 injections and 73% for ILPenta-240-3. For three IL injections of pentamidine, efficacy was optimized at a dose of 120 μg/mm2 lesion area. The cure rate of that regimen was similar to that for ILSb-5 injections and nonstatistically larger than that of ILSb-3 injections. IL pentamidine is an attractive alternative to ILSb on the basis of efficacy for Bolivian L. braziliensis, the threat of Sb-resistant parasites, tolerance, and patient convenience of three visits over 5 days.
Development of Type 2, But Not Type 1, Leprosy Reactions is Associated with a Severe Reduction of Circulating and In situ Regulatory T-Cells
Authors: Vieira Ana Paula , Trindade Maria Ângela Bianconcini , Pagliari Carla , Avancini João , Sakai-Valente Neusa Yurico , Duarte Alberto José da Silva , Benard Gil
Published: February 2016

Leprosy is frequently complicated by the appearance of reactions that are difficult to treat and are the main cause of sequelae. We speculated that disturbances in regulatory T-cells (Tregs) could play a role in leprosy reactions. We determined the frequency of circulating Tregs in patients with type 1 reaction (T1R) and type 2 reaction (T2R). The in situ frequency of Tregs and interleukin (IL)-17, IL-6, and transforming growth factor beta (TGF)-β-expressing cells was also determined. T2R patients showed markedly lower number of circulating and in situ Tregs than T1R patients and controls. This decrease was paralleled by increased in situ IL-17 expression but decreased TGF-β expression. Biopsies from T1R and T2R patients before the reaction episodes showed similar number of forkhead box protein P3+ (FoxP3+) and IL-17+ cells. However, in biopsies taken during the reaction, T2R patients showed a decrease in Tregs and increase in IL-17+ cells, whereas T1R patients showed the opposite: Tregs increased but IL-17+ cells decreased. We also found decreased expansion of Tregs upon in vitro stimulation with Mycobacterium leprae and a trend for lower expression of FoxP3 and the immunosuppressive molecule cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated protein 4 (CTLA-4) in T2R Tregs. Our results provide some evidence to the hypothesis that, in T2R, downmodulation of Tregs may favor the development of T-helper-17 responses that characterize this reaction.
Spectrum of Imported Infectious Diseases: A Comparative Prevalence Study of 16,817 German Travelers and 977 Immigrants from the Tropics and Subtropics
Authors: Herbinger Karl-Heinz , Alberer Martin , Berens-Riha Nicole , Schunk Mirjam , Bretzel Gisela , von Sonnenburg Frank , Nothdurft Hans Dieter , Löscher Thomas , Beissner Marcus
Published: February 2016

The aim of this study was to assess the spectrum of imported infectious diseases (IDs) among patients consulting the University of Munich, Germany, between 1999 and 2014 after being in the sub-/tropics. The analysis investigated complete data sets of 16,817 diseased German travelers (2,318 business travelers, 4,029 all-inclusive travelers, and 10,470 backpackers) returning from Latin America (3,225), Africa (4,865), or Asia (8,727), and 977 diseased immigrants, originating from the same regions (112, 654 and 211 respectively). The most frequent symptoms assessed were diarrhea (38%), fever (29%), and skin disorder (22%). The most frequent IDs detected were intestinal infections with species of Blastocystis (900), Giardia (730), Campylobacter (556), Shigella (209), and Salmonella (183). Also frequently observed were cutaneous larva migrans (379), dengue (257), and malaria (160). The number of IDs with significantly elevated proportions was higher among backpackers (18) and immigrants (17), especially among those from Africa (18) and Asia (17), whereas it was lower for business travelers (5), all-inclusive travelers (1), and those from Latin America (5). This study demonstrates a large spectrum of imported IDs among returning German travelers and immigrants, which varies greatly based not only on travel destination and origin of immigrants, but also on type of travel.
Zika Virus Emergence and Expansion: Lessons Learned from Dengue and Chikungunya May Not Provide All the Answers
Authors: Christofferson Rebecca C.
Published: February 2016

Following the emergence of Zika in the past decade, there are lessons to be learned from similar emergence events of dengue (DENV) and chikungunya (CHIKV). Specifically, as Zika emerges in the Americas there is a natural tendency to apply the knowledge base of DENV and CHIKV to mitigation and control of a virus with such a similar transmission system. However, there are marked differences that may preclude such broad stroke application of this knowledge base without making potentially faulty assumptions. Herein, Zika virus (ZIKV) transmission is reviewed, and the commonalities among these three arboviruses are discussed. Importantly, the divergence of this particular arbovirus is discussed, as is the need to develop ZIKV-specific knowledge base for mitigation of this disease. Specifically reviewed are 1) emergence and persistence patterns, 2) genetic and phenotypic diversity, 3) vector host range, and finally, 4) alternate transmission routes and added complexity of ZIKV transmission and presentation.
EsAsí
Authors: Šilc Tina , Fock Ignac , Repovš Laura , Udovč Andreja
Published: February 2016

Nagrajeni odlomki  prevodov mladih prevajalcev
Spatial Distribution of the Persistent Organic Pollutants across the Tibetan Plateau and Its Linkage with the Climate Systems: Five Year Air Monitoring Study
Authors: Wang Xiaoping , Ren Jiao , Gong Ping , Wang Chuanfei , Xue Yonggang , Yao Tandong , Lohmann Rainer
Published: February 2016

Abstract. The Tibetan Plateau (TP) has been contaminated by persistent organic pollutants (POPs), including legacy organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) through atmospheric transport. The exact source regions, transport pathways and time trends of POPs to the TP are not well understood. Here XAD-based passive air samplers (PAS) were deployed at 16 Tibetan background sites from 2007 to 2012 to gain further insight into spatial patterns and temporal trends of OCPs and PCBs. The southeastern TP was characterized by dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) -related chemicals delivered by Indian Monsoon air masses. The northern and northwestern TP displayed the greatest absolute concentration and relative abundance of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) in the atmosphere, caused by the westerly-driven European air masses. The interactions between the DDT polluted Indian monsoon air and the clean westerly winds formed a transition zone in central Tibet where both DDT and HCB were the dominant chemicals. Based on 5-year of continuous sampling, our data indicated declining concentrations of HCB and hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs) across the Tibetan region. Inter-annual trends of DDT class chemicals, however, showed less variation during this 5-year sampling period, which may be due to the on-going usage of DDT in India. This paper demonstrates the possibility of using POPs fingerprints to investigate the climate interactions and the validity of using PAS to derive inter-annual atmospheric POPs time trends.
Strict and Uniform Shariah Screening Methodologies in Selected Asian Countries in Comparison with the United States
Authors: Kasi Umayal , Muhammad Junaina
Published: February 2016

This paper focuses mainly on the Shariah screening methodologies for Shariah-Compliant firms. This paper compares the Shariah screening methodologies which are used in selected Asian countries and the United States, a ‘powerhouse’ nation. In order to include the analysis of the new benchmark introduced in Malaysia as part of this study, the timeline used in this paper is from November 2013 until November 2014. It can be found that there are similarities and differences between the various Shariah screening methodologies in all the 5 countries, in terms of feasibility, duration, economic viability and fund requirements. It also appears that the Shariah screening methodologies implied in the United States is far more stringent than those implied in the selected Asian countries. On the whole, the results point towards the possibility of generalising the implementation of strict and uniform Shariah screening methodologies within all the country-specific Shariah Indices amongst Muslim nations, globally.
A Comparison of the Online Learning Activities and Learning Style Preferences of Young Adult Video Game Players and Nonplayers
Authors: Seok Soonhwa , DaCosta Boaventura
Published: February 2016

A study is presented that compared the online learning activities and learning style preferences of video game players and nonplayers. A total of 1,258 students across seven postsecondary institutions near Seoul, South Korea, rated their experiences with video game play alongside their online learning activities and preferences toward learning styles that share characteristics with many of today’s games. Utilizing a causal-comparative approach, descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were used to quantitatively examine the groups. At first glance, the findings revealed that the players were more involved in online learning activities than the nonplayers. Namely, the players (a) took more online courses and/or training per year; (b) shared ideas, documents, information, and/or knowledge online; (c) read and/or contributed to blogs; (d) used the Internet to complete school assignments; and (e) used email, instant message, chat (or other means) to communicate with instructors and peers. However, further examination revealed that the nonplayers held a stronger preference than the players for most of the learning styles examined. That is, the nonplayers preferred online courses and/or training that (a) presented graphics before text; (b) provided opportunities to multitask; (c) offered the ability to selectively access different parts of courseware, rather than linearly stepping through; and (d) were play- rather than work-centric. Although exceptions were found, on the whole, these findings suggest that arguments about today’s youth and their different learning preferences, as a result of exposure to and experience with technology, to include video games, may be premature and much more in-depth empirically supported research is needed before definitive conclusions can be safely drawn.
A Comparative Study of Absolute Liability Offense in Iran and the UK
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Mohammad , Babaei Arash , Khatami Shamsollah , Jafarzadi Yousef
Published: February 2016

One characteristic of the force of law in the country, the integrity of the rules in all areas of all aspects of creation into account the distinction between crime and the crime and failed or incomplete in acts of crime and crime as the withdrawal. In this respect the rules on penalties culpability in the crime has been proposed that the content of the crime with absolute responsibility of these categories has manifested. Under the Articles 144 and 145 of the Latest version Islamic criminal law (2013), Create unintentional offenses, subject to verification of the fault committed. In crimes ranging from quasi-intentional unintentional deviation as retaliation book rules apply. Legislator to commit a fault, the reason for the error is considered criminal, which has always been considered an objective measure and a ruler (in Article 145), while the common law under subsection (1) "criminal law to crimes" adopted 1981 crime start as the offense is punishable total. This study showed that certain similarities between the laws. In this context, the two internal laws and the common law can be found, in which the underlying offense of absolute liability is not fixed in the courts. Always treat judges and lawyers in the face of legal texts are not consistent because of the lack of transparency and clarity of the rules. In particular, in the common law, when a crime for the first time in cour t, and a warrant has been issued about it in terms of predicting the law and with regard to the interpretation of judges, procedural difference is more tangible.