bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of the Dynamic Characteristics of a Micro-Piezoelectric Bimorph Beam Based on an Admittance Test
Authors: Zheng Tianxiang , Chen Shuo , Lei Linxu , Deng Zhanfeng , Zhang Cheng , Yang Xing , Zou Haodong , Xu Menghan
Published: July 2017

A piezoelectric bimorph beam, as an upgraded cantilever beam structure, can be used to detect gas content and build a micro-actuator, among other functions. Thus, this beam is widely applied to microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), transformers, and precision machinery. For example, when photoacoustic spectroscopy is performed to detect oil-soluble gas in transformers, a micro-cantilever beam can be used to detect gas content. The dynamic characteristics of piezoelectric bimorph beams, such as resonant frequency, are important indexes in the applications of these beams. The equivalent circuit model for a piezoelectric bimorph beam is examined in this study and an admittance test is performed on the beam to accurately, quickly, and economically measure and analyze its dynamic characteristics. Then, the least squares method is applied to obtain the characteristic curves of the admittance circle, amplitude frequency, and phase frequency; identify the dynamic characteristics of the piezoelectric bimorph beam (e.g., resonant frequency); and determine the parameters of the equivalent circuit. The resonant frequency of the piezoelectric bimorph beam is 207.67 Hz based on the result of the admittance circle test, which is basically consistent with the results of microscope image method (i.e., 207.85 Hz) and the theoretical calculation (i.e., 222.03 Hz). This finding proves the validity of the proposed test method. This method cannot only improve the detection speed of piezoelectric bimorph beams, but can also provide a fast detection strategy for testing the characteristics of such beams during photoacoustic spectroscopy.
Resveratrol-Induced AMP-Activated Protein Kinase Activation Is Cell-Type Dependent: Lessons from Basic Research for Clinical Application
Authors: Lan Fan , Weikel Karen , Cacicedo Jose , Ido Yasuo
Published: July 2017

Despite the promising effects of resveratrol, its efficacy in the clinic remains controversial. We were the first group to report that the SIRT1 activator resveratrol activates AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) (Diabetes 2005; 54: A383), and we think that the variability of this cascade may be responsible for the inconsistency of resveratrol’s effects. Our current studies suggest that the effect of SIRT1 activators such as resveratrol may not be solely through activation of SIRT1, but also through an integrated effect of SIRT1-liver kinase B1 (LKB1)-AMPK. In this context, resveratrol activates SIRT1 (1) by directly binding to SIRT1; and (2) by increasing NAD+ levels by upregulating the salvage pathway through Nampt activation, an effect mediated by AMPK. The first mechanism promotes deacetylation of a limited number of SIRT1 substrate proteins (e.g., PGC-1). The second mechanism (which may be more important than the first) activates other sirtuins in addition to SIRT1, which affects a broad spectrum of substrates. Despite these findings, detailed mechanisms of how resveratrol activates AMPK have not been reported. Here, we show that (1) resveratrol-induced activation of AMPK requires the presence of functional LKB1; (2) Resveratrol increases LKB1 activity, which involves translocation and phosphorylation at T336 and S428; (3) Activation of LKB1 causes proteasomal degradation of LKB1; (4) At high concentrations (50–100 µM), resveratrol also activates AMPK through increasing AMP levels; and (5) The above-mentioned activation mechanisms vary among cell types, and in some cell types, resveratrol fails to activate AMPK. These results suggest that resveratrol-induced activation of AMPK is not a ubiquitous phenomenon. In addition, AMPK-mediated increases in NAD+ in the second mechanism require several ATPs, which may not be available in many pathological conditions. These phenomena may explain why resveratrol is not always consistently beneficial in a clinical setting.
Characterization of Non-Nutritive Sweetener Intake in Rural Southwest Virginian Adults Living in a Health-Disparate Region
Authors: Hedrick Valisa , Passaro Erin , Davy Brenda , You Wen , Zoellner Jamie
Published: July 2017

Few data assessing non-nutritive sweetener (NNS) intake are available, especially within rural, health-disparate populations, where obesity and related co-morbidities are prevalent. The objective of this study is to characterize NNS intake for this population and examine the variance in demographics, cardio-metabolic outcomes, and dietary intake between NNS consumers and non-consumers. A cross-sectional sample (n = 301) of Virginian adults from a randomized controlled trial (data collected from 2012 to 2014) targeting sugar-sweetened beverage (SSB) intake completed three 24-h dietary recalls, and demographics and cardio-metabolic measures were assessed. The frequency, types, and sources of NNS consumption were identified. Thirty-three percent of participants reported consuming NNS (n = 100). Sucralose was the largest contributor of mean daily NNS intake by weight (mg), followed by aspartame, acesulfame potassium, and saccharin. NNS in tabletop sweeteners, diet tea, and diet soda were the top contributors to absolute NNS intake. The most frequently consumed NNS sources were diet sodas, juice drinks, and tabletop sweeteners. Although mean body mass index (BMI) was greater for NNS consumers, they demonstrated significantly lower food, beverage, and SSB caloric intake and energy density, and higher overall dietary quality. It remains unclear whether NNS use plays a role in exacerbating weight gain. NNS consumers in this sample may have switched from drinking predominantly SSB to drinking some NNS beverages in an effort to cope with weight gain. Future studies should explore motivations for NNS use across a variety of weight and health categories.
Iron Fortified Complementary Foods Containing a Mixture of Sodium Iron EDTA with Either Ferrous Fumarate or Ferric Pyrophosphate Reduce Iron Deficiency Anemia in 12- to 36-Month-Old Children in a Malaria Endemic Setting: A Secondary Analysis of a Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Glinz Dominik , Wegmüller Rita , Ouattara Mamadou , Diakité Victorine , Aaron Grant , Hofer Lorenz , Zimmermann Michael , Adiossan Lukas , Utzinger Jürg , N’Goran Eliézer , Hurrell Richard
Published: July 2017

Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major public health problem in sub-Saharan Africa. The efficacy of iron fortification against IDA is uncertain in malaria-endemic settings. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a complementary food (CF) fortified with sodium iron EDTA (NaFeEDTA) plus either ferrous fumarate (FeFum) or ferric pyrophosphate (FePP) to combat IDA in preschool-age children in a highly malaria endemic region. This is a secondary analysis of a nine-month cluster-randomized controlled trial conducted in south-central Côte d’Ivoire. 378 children aged 12–36 months were randomly assigned to no food intervention (n = 125; control group), CF fortified with 2 mg NaFeEDTA plus 3.8 mg FeFum for six days/week (n = 126; FeFum group), and CF fortified with 2 mg NaFeEDTA and 3.8 mg FePP for six days/week (n = 127; FePP group). The outcome measures were hemoglobin (Hb), plasma ferritin (PF), iron deficiency (PF < 30 μg/L), and anemia (Hb < 11.0 g/dL). Data were analyzed with random-effect models and PF was adjusted for inflammation. The prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum infection and inflammation during the study were 44–66%, and 57–76%, respectively. There was a significant time by treatment interaction on IDA (p = 0.028) and a borderline significant time by treatment interaction on iron deficiency with or without anemia (p = 0.068). IDA prevalence sharply decreased in the FeFum (32.8% to 1.2%, p < 0.001) and FePP group (23.6% to 3.4%, p < 0.001). However, there was no significant time by treatment interaction on Hb or total anemia. These data indicate that, despite the high endemicity of malaria and elevated inflammation biomarkers (C-reactive protein or α-1-acid-glycoprotein), IDA was markedly reduced by provision of iron fortified CF to preschool-age children for 9 months, with no significant differences between a combination of NaFeEDTA with FeFum or NaFeEDTA with FePP. However, there was no overall effect on anemia, suggesting most of the anemia in this setting is not due to ID. This trial is registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT01634945).
Predicting Foreign Tourists for the Tourism Industry Using Soft Computing-Based Grey–Markov Models
Authors: Hu Yi-Chung
Published: July 2017

Accurate prediction of foreign tourist numbers is crucial for each country to devise sustainable tourism development policies. Tourism time series data often have significant temporal fluctuation, so Grey–Markov models based on a grey model with a first order differential equation and one variable, GM(1,1), can be appropriate. To further improve prediction accuracy from Grey–Markov models, this study incorporates soft computing techniques to estimate a modifiable range for a predicted value, and determine individual state bounds for the Markov chain. A new residual value is formulated by summing the transition probability matrices with different steps. The proposed grey prediction model was applied to foreign tourist forecasting using historical annual data collected from Taiwan Tourism Bureau and China National Tourism Administration. The experimental results show that the proposed grey prediction model performs well in comparison with other Grey–Markov models considered.
Achieving Sustainability beyond Zero Waste: A Case Study from a College Football Stadium
Authors: Costello Christine , McGarvey Ronald , Birisci Esma
Published: July 2017

Collegiate sporting venues have been leading efforts toward zero-waste events in pursuit of more sustainable operations. This study audited the landfill-destined waste generated at the University of Missouri (MU) football stadium in 2014 and evaluated the life cycle greenhouse gas (GHG) and energy use associated with waste management options, including options that do and do not comply with zero-waste definitions. An estimated 47.3 metric tons (mt) of waste was generated, the majority (29.6 mt waste) came from off-site, pre-game food preparation activities; of which over 96 percent (%) was pre-consumer and un-sold food waste. The remaining 17.7 mt originated from inside the stadium; recyclable materials accounting for 43%, followed by food waste, 24%. Eleven waste management strategies were evaluated using the Waste Reduction Model (WARM). Results indicate that scenarios achieving zero waste compliance are not necessarily the most effective means of reducing GHG emissions or energy use. The two most effective approaches are eliminating edible food waste and recycling. Source reduction of edible food reduced GHGs by 103.1 mt (carbon dioxide equivalents) CO2e and generated energy savings of 448.5 GJ compared to the baseline. Perfect recycling would result in a reduction of 25.4 mt CO2e and 243.7 GJ compared to the baseline. The primary challenges to achieving these reductions are the difficulties of predicting demand for food and influencing consumer behavior.
A Method for Simplification of Complex Group Causal Loop Diagrams Based on Endogenisation, Encapsulation and Order-Oriented Reduction
Authors: Bureš Vladimír
Published: July 2017

Growing complexity represents an issue that can be identified in various disciplines. In system dynamics, causal loop diagrams are used for capturing dynamic nature of modelled systems. Increasing complexity of developed diagrams is associated with the tendency to include more variables into a model and thus make it more realistic and improve its value. This is even multiplied during group modelling workshops where several perspectives are articulated, shared and complex diagrams developed. This process easily generates complex diagrams that are difficult or even impossible to be comprehended by individuals. As there is a lack of available methods that would help users to cope with growing complexity, this manuscript suggests an original method. The proposed method systematically helps to simplify the complex causal loop diagrams. It is based on three activities iteratively applied during particular steps: endogenisation, encapsulation and order-oriented reduction. Two case studies are used to explain method details, prove its applicability and highlight added value. Case studies include the simplification of both original group causal loop diagram, and group diagram adapted from a study already published in a prestigious journal. Although the presented method has its own limitations, meaningfulness of its application in practice is verified. The method can help to cope with the complexity in any domain, in which causal loop diagrams are used.
Molecular Mechanisms of Human Papillomavirus Induced Skin Carcinogenesis
Authors: Hufbauer Martin , Akgül Baki
Published: July 2017

Infection of the cutaneous skin with human papillomaviruses (HPV) of genus betapapillomavirus (βHPV) is associated with the development of premalignant actinic keratoses and squamous cell carcinoma. Due to the higher viral loads of βHPVs in actinic keratoses than in cancerous lesions, it is currently discussed that these viruses play a carcinogenic role in cancer initiation. In vitro assays performed to characterize the cell transforming activities of high-risk HPV types of genus alphapapillomavirus have markedly contributed to the present knowledge on their oncogenic functions. However, these assays failed to detect oncogenic functions of βHPV early proteins. They were not suitable for investigations aiming to study the interactive role of βHPV positive epidermis with mesenchymal cells and the extracellular matrix. This review focuses on βHPV gene functions with special focus on oncogenic mechanisms that may be relevant for skin cancer development.
Incomplete lineage sorting and hybridization in the evolutionary history of closely related, endemic yellow‐flowered Aechmea species of subgenus Ortgiesia (Bromeliaceae)
Authors: Goetze Márcia , Zanella Camila M. , Palma‐Silva Clarisse , Büttow Miriam V. , Bered Fernanda
Published: July 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

The yellow‐flowered Aechmea subgenus Ortgiesia (yfAsO) (Bromeliaceae) is a group of seven morphologically similar bromeliads found mostly in the southern Brazilian Atlantic rainforest. The recent origin of this group probably contributes to its taxonomic complexity. The aims of this study were to investigate the levels of genetic diversity and structure at the population and species levels, to gain insight into the processes behind the diversification of the group, and to contribute to the establishment of species boundaries.

METHODS:

We sequenced two noncoding regions of the chloroplast genome (rpl32‐trnL and rps16‐trnK) and the nuclear phyC gene in 204 and 153 individuals, respectively, representing the seven species of the group. Phylogeographical and population genetics approaches were used.

KEY RESULTS:

Three of the seven yfAsO showed some degree of genetic differentiation among species. Divergence time for the group was dated to around 4 million years ago. Areas of conservation value were identified, and a scenario of multiple refugia in the southern Brazilian Atlantic rainforest during the Pleistocene climatic oscillations is suggested.

CONCLUSIONS:

We hypothesized that incomplete lineage sorting and localized hybridization events are responsible for the low levels of genetic differentiation and the taxonomic complexity observed among and within the seven yfAsO species. Further studies on Aechmea comata and Aechmea kertesziae will be necessary to clarify the boundary between these two species. Most of the populations sampled showed high genetic diversity and/or unique haplotypes; they should be prioritized for conservation purposes.
Visualization of extracellular DNA released during border cell separation from the root cap
Authors: Wen Fushi , Curlango‐Rivera Gilberto , Huskey David A. , Xiong Zhongguo , Hawes Martha C.
Published: July 2017

PREMISE OF THE STUDY:

Root border cells are programmed to separate from the root cap as it penetrates the soil environment, where the cells actively secrete >100 extracellular proteins into the surrounding mucilage. The detached cells function in defense of the root tip by an extracellular trapping process that also requires DNA, as in mammalian white blood cells. Trapping in animals and plants is reversed by treatment with DNase, which results in increased infection. The goal of this study was to evaluate the role of DNA in the structural integrity of extracellular structures released as border cells disperse from the root tip upon contact with water.

METHODS:

DNA stains including crystal violet, toluidine blue, Hoechst 33342, DAPI, and SYTOX green were added to root tips to visualize the extracellular mucilage as it absorbed water and border cell populations dispersed. DNase I was used to assess structural changes occurring when extracellular DNA was degraded.

KEY RESULTS:

Complex masses associated with living border cells were immediately evident in response to each stain, including those that are specific for DNA. Treating with DNase I dramatically altered the appearance of the extracellular structures and their association with border cells. No extracellular DNA was found in association with border cells killed by freezing or high‐speed centrifugation. This observation is consistent with the hypothesis that, as with border cell extracellular proteins, DNA is secreted by living cells.

CONCLUSION:

DNA is an integral component of border cell extracellular traps.
The >100 kpc Distant Spur of the Sagittarius Stream and the Outer Virgo Overdensity, as Seen in PS1 RR Lyrae Stars
Authors: Sesar Branimir , Hernitschek Nina , Dierickx Marion I. P. , Fardal Mark A. , Rix Hans-Walter
Published: July 2017

We report the detection of spatially distinct stellar density features near the apocenters of the Sagittarius (Sgr) stream’s main leading and trailing arm. These features are clearly visible in a high-fidelity stellar halo map that is based on RR Lyrae from Pan-STARRS1: there is a plume of stars 10 kpc beyond the apocenter of the leading arm, and there is a “spur” extending to 130 kpc, almost 30 kpc beyond the previously detected apocenter of the trailing arm. Such an apocenter substructure is qualitatively expected in any Sgr stream model, as stars stripped from the progenitor at different pericenter passages become spatially separated there. The morphology of these new Sgr stream substructures could provide much-needed new clues and constraints for modeling the Sgr system, including the level of dynamical friction that Sgr has experienced. We also report the discovery of a new, presumably unrelated halo substructure at 80 kpc from the Sun and 10° from the Sgr orbital plane, which we dub the outer Virgo overdensity.
Fat Mass Lowers the Response to Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Blockers in Patients with Ankylosing Spondylitis
Authors: Ibáñez Vodnizza Sebastián E. , Nurmohamed Michael T. , Visman Ingrid M. , van Denderen J. Christiaan , Lems Willem F. , Jaime Francisca , van der Horst–Bruinsma Irene E.
Published: July 2017

Objective.

Our main objective was to assess the relationship between body composition (BC) and response to tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) blocker treatment in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Our secondary objective was to evaluate the change of BC after treatment, accounting for sex and age.

Methods.

All included patients fulfilled the modified New York criteria for AS and were naive to TNF-α blocker. They were followed for at least 6 months after the start of etanercept or adalimumab. The Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score containing C-reactive protein (ASDAS-CRP) and the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) were reported. BC was assessed by whole body dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Body fat percentage (BF%), fat mass index (FMI), and fat free mass index (FFMI) were reported as absolute values and as percentiles.

Results.

Forty-one patients were included (61% men). The median followup was 14.3 months (interquartile range 8.4–19.4). After multivariate regression analysis, more fat at baseline (BF%, FMI, or FMI percentile) was significantly related with a lower chance of achieving a clinically important improvement of the ASDAS-CRP or BASDAI after treatment. The body composition did not change significantly after treatment, but there was a trend toward muscle recovery in men (FFMI change from 34.0th to 37.4th percentile).

Conclusion.

Higher body fat content at baseline was independently associated with a worse response to treatment with TNF-α blockers, measured by ASDAS-CRP and BASDAI change, and might contribute to the lower response rates in female patients. Also, there is a trend toward muscle mass recovery in male patients after treatment.
Understanding and Finding Solutions to the Problem of Sedimentation in the National Wildlife Refuge System
Authors: van der Burg Max Post , Jenni Karen E. , Nieman Timothy L. , Eash Josh D. , Knutsen Gregory A.
Published: July 2017

The National Wildlife Refuge System (Refuge System) is a collection of public lands maintained by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for migratory birds and other wildlife. Wetlands on individual National Wildlife Refuges (Refuges) may be at risk of increased sedimentation because of land use and water management practices. Increased sedimentation can reduce wetland habitat quality by altering hydrologic function, degrading water quality, and inhibiting growth of vegetation and invertebrates. On Refuges negatively affected by increased sedimentation, managers have to address complex questions about how to best remediate and mitigate the negative effects. The best way to account for these complexities is often not clear. On other Refuges, managers may not know whether sedimentation is a problem. Decision makers in the Refuge System may need to allocate resources to studying which Refuges could be at risk. Such analyses would help them understand where to direct support for managing increased sedimentation. In this paper, we summarize a case study demonstrating the use of decision-analytic tools in the development of a sedimentation management plan for Agassiz National Wildlife Refuge, Minnesota. Using what we learned from that process, we surveyed other Refuges in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Region 3 (an area encompassing the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, and Wisconsin) and Region 6 (an area encompassing the states of Colorado, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming) about whether they experience sediment-related impacts to management. Our results show that cases of management being negatively affected by increased sedimentation are not isolated. We suggest that the Refuge System conduct a comprehensive and systematic assessment of increased sedimentation among Refuges to understand the importance of sedimentation in context with other management problems that Refuges face. The results of such an assessment could guide how the Refuge System allocates resources to studying and managing widespread stressors.
Quand l’album de jeunesse innove pour mettre en scène la guerre
Authors: Gagne Nelly Chabrol
Published: July 2017

Dans cet article qui se propose d’analyser quelques images d’albums de jeunesse contemporains, français ou traduits en français, trois axes d’étude littéraire seront privilégiés pour montrer comment les guerres y sont mises en scène. D’une part, l’écriture autobiographique témoigne de l’enfance de deux auteurs illustrateurs, Uri Shulevitz et Peter Sís, qui vécurent en temps de guerre, après le bombardement de Varsovie ou derrière le rideau de fer. D’autre part, l’écriture de la limite, choisie par Pef et Dedieu, insiste sur le souci « d’imager » frontalement l’horreur des guerres qui massacrent des civils ou ont fait vivre l’enfer aux Poilus. Enfin, l’écriture contrapuntique considère comment des artistes travaillant en duo, Davide Cali et Serge Bloch ou Didier Lévy et Katrin Stangl, exploitent le potentiel iconotextuel de l’album pour dénoncer la guerre tout en plébiscitant les forces gagnantes que sont à la fois l’intelligence et l’imagination. Ainsi, quelques-unes des audaces de la création auctoriale et éditoriale, lorsqu’il s’agit d’albums de jeunesse portant sur des conflits du 20e siècle, auront été mises en lumière.
L’école, de la transmission de la mémoire nationale au lieu de mémoire : le cas espagnol en perspective comparée
Authors: Ostolaza Maitane
Published: July 2017

Cet article étudie les relations entre l’école et la nation depuis une perspective historique. Il se propose d’analyser le rôle joué par l'institution scolaire dans les processus de nationalisation. Pour ce faire, l'objet scolaire est abordé depuis une double dimension. En premier lieu, comme outil de transmission de la langue et des contenus culturels associés à une communauté nationale donnée. En second lieu, en considérant l'école en elle-même, comme l’un des symboles majeurs de la nation. Pour mieux comprendre ces relations, le cas espagnol est analysé dans un cadre comparatif, notamment au miroir du modèle républicain français, mais en tenant en compte également d'autres contextes du sud de l'Europe, comme l'Italie, sans négliger les identités infra statiques, comme celles développées en Catalogne ou au Pays basque. Le but est de réaliser une incursion dans l'étude des processus identitaires modernes en clé symbolique et ce, en portant une attention particulière aux signifiés historiques et culturels divers attribués à l'institution scolaire.
Biblioteca del Niño Mexicano (1899-1901) y Episodios Mexicanos (1981-1982) : ficciones históricas ilustradas, ¿sólo para niños ?
Authors: Lecouvey Marie , Bonilla Helia
Published: July 2017

L’histoire nationale mexicaine est narrée aux enfants et aux adolescents par le biais de deux séries où l’introduction d’intrigues fictionnelles et d’images les rend plus attractives. La première série est l’œuvre d’un écrivain déjà expert dans l’art de mêler histoire et fiction (H. Frías) et d’un illustrateur bien connu (J. G. Posada) ; elle est publiée par un éditeur privé et présentée comme un instrument d’éducation, bénéfique aussi bien pour l’enfant que pour la nation. La seconde est illustrée par plusieurs équipes de dessinateurs (il s’agit de bandes dessinées), guidés par des équipes interdisciplinaires de chercheurs en histoire et autres sciences sociales, et publiée par le ministère de l’éducation : son objectif initial est de donner à tous (enfants et adultes) l’accès à la vérité historique. Fruit de deux époques séparées par la révolution mexicaine, ces deux collections, fondamentalement différentes, pourraient bien présenter plus de points communs que l’on ne l’imagine.
Xexoxial Endarchy: Visual Poetry and Intentional Community at Dreamtime Village in the Midwestern United States
Authors: Robert-Foley Lily
Published: July 2017

This paper examines a cross section of authors in the Xerolage collection, a subsection of the experimental poetry publisher Xexoxial Editions. Xerolage prints 25-page chapbooks of visual poetry using a Xerox machine. These chapbooks are printed in an intentional community in Lima, Wisconsin founded in 1991 by mIEKAL aND and Elisabeth Was called Dreamtime Village, that practices alternative living and permaculture farming. The paper asks what kind of link can be made between these practices of experimental writing, small press DIY printing, and alternative, resistant forms of social organization. The link between experimental writing and social/political resistance is a well-established one, particularly with regards to the avant-garde tradition. In this instance, however, readings of visual poets will be interwoven not just with political resistance but with logistical ones related to the practical matters of community building: housing, eating, living. We see that in both instances, the work challenges principles of order, as they pertain to both reading and civilization, and uses paragrammatic strategies of détournement, subverting this order by recycling, cutting, pasting and rearticulating how resistance can be drawn newly from forgotten pasts. The article examines the work of John M Bennet, David-Baptiste Chirot, Scott Helmes, Geof Huth, Andrew Topel, Elizabeth Was and mIEKAL aND.
Semantic Analysis Based Approach for Relevant Text Extraction Using Ontology
Authors: Chahal Poonam , Singh Manjeet , Kumar Suresh
Published: July 2017

Semantic analysis computation is done by extracting the interrelated concepts used by an author in the text/content of document. The concepts and linking i.e. relationships that are available among the concepts are most relevant as they provide the maximum information related to the event or activity as described by an author in the document. The retrieved relevant information from the text helps in the construction of the summary of a large text present in the document. This summary can further be represented in form of ontology and utilized in various application areas of information retrieval process like crawling, indexing, ranking, etc. The constructed ontologies can be compared with each other for calculation of similarity index based on semantic analysis between any texts. This paper gives a novel technique for retrieving the relevant semantic information represented in the form of ontology for true semantic analysis of given text.
Survival in the Digital Era
Authors: Vieru Dragos , Bourdeau Simon
Published: July 2017

Although the literature emphasizes the link between digital competence (DC) and IT adoption, there is a lack of understanding of how DC can be conceptualized in an SME context. Drawing on the literatures on SMEs and DC and on the change agentry perspective, this multi-case study proposes a multi-dimensional conceptualization of DC and empirically tests a typology of three DC archetypes of SME employees: Technical Expert, Organizer, and Campaigner. The results from a multi-case study of three Canadian SMEs suggest that the development of DC should focus on the complementarity nature of the technological, social and cognitive dimensions of the DC.
Challenges Assessment for the E-Commerce Industry in India
Authors: Vyas Anand , Gupta Sachin
Published: July 2017

The core aim of this research paper is to analyze the challenges faced by an E-commerce industry in India. The Indian Economy is proliferating day by day and E- commerce industry is playing an imperative and laudable role in its progress. Still there are enormous sectors that have been untouched by an E-commerce industry in India, particularly in its rural areas. Many consumers in India still follow the traditional purchasing method. Unfortunately, altering customer perception of online shopping has been quite a tough task for the E-commerce industry. According to a survey, India is ranked fourth in the world for its number of Internet users. So, it is expected that India would come into the top 10 E-commerce hub by 2020. Indian buyers are afraid to use new technology in its Initial stage. But, if an E-commerce company could provide proper feedback and knowledge to its customers for online purchasing, it would directly help to increase the sales of the E-commerce websites. This research paper gives a theoretical contribution for analyzing the hurdles in front of the E-commerce industry.
Machinability Analysis in Drilling Glass/Epoxy Composites with Filled MWCNTS
Authors: Ovali Ismail , Mavi Ahmet
Published: July 2017

Drilling is the most used machining process in the assemble of Glass/epoxy composites. Material removing leads to damage and delamination in the drilling process. The present paper deals the effect of drill wt.% of multi walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) on the drilling of glass/epoxy composites in term of torque and push-out delamination. Glass/epoxy composites manufactured by using pre-preg method. The filled rates were considered as 0.5, 1 and 2 wt.%. MWCNTs. Also, the unfilled composite samples were used for comparison. Various cutting speeds (40, 50 and 60 m/min) and feed rates (0.075, 0.1 and 0,125 mm/rev) for coated drills were used. The experimental result showed that the machinability properties of glass/epoxy composites samples can be improved with filling MWCNTs. Higher cutting speed and feed rate increase delamination. Push-out more severe than that of peel-up delamination.
Oxidation Kinetics of ZrB2 Ceramic Matrix Composite Materials
Authors: Yu Hong , Huang Qun , Wang Wei , Liu Long Tao , Li Cai Wen , Xu Min Han , Wang Xiu Qin , Song Jie Guang , Li Shi Bin , Chen Lin
Published: July 2017

Zirconium diboride is widely applied because of some excellent performances. The oxidation kinetics of ZrB2-YAG-Al2O3 composite materials were researched, which helps to improve the performance of ultra-high-temperature composite materials. The results show the oxidation weight gain is decreased with increasing the content of YAG-Al2O3 and the molar ratio of Al2O3. The oxidation weight gain is increased with prolonging the oxidation time under 1300°Cæ, the oxidation weight gain ratio is decreased with prolonging the oxidation time. The effecting tendency of oxidation weight gain is not abvious with varying the contend of YAG-Al2O3 upon 1300°Cæ, however, the effecting tendency of oxidation weight gain is very abvious with varying the molar ratio of Al2O3.
Kenaf Silicone Biocomposites: Synthesis and its Hyperelastic Behaviour
Authors: Azmi Nurul Nadiah , Hussain Ahmad Kamil , Mahmud Jamaluddin
Published: July 2017

Silicone rubber is widely used in various fields but has low strength, whereas kenaf has higher strength. Therefore, this study aims to synthesise a new material that consists of both kenaf and silicone with three different variances and determine its properties using the three most common hyperelastic constitutive models: Neo-Hookean, Mooney-Rivlin and Ogden. In order to obtain the material constant of kenaf silicone biocomposite, experimental and numerical approaches are adapted. The xperimental approach involves synthesising of kenaf silicone biocomposite and uniaxial tensile test, while the numerical approach involves curve fitting method using an excel programme. Curve fitting method was used because the raw data from tensile test alone could not determine the material constant of agar silicone biocomposite. The results show that the numerical value of the material constant increases as the percentage of the reinforcement material (kenaf) increases. However, the tensile strength of the material decreases as the reinforcement material increases.
Optoelectronic Analysis of CdGa2X4 (X= S, Se): A Promising Material for Solar Cells
Authors: Kumar Pancham , Sahariya Jagrati , Soni Amit , Bhamu K.C.
Published: July 2017

In this paper, the optoelectronic nature of the CdGa2X4 (X = S, Se) solar cell materials are examined using full potential linear augmented plane wave (FP-LAPW) method as embodied in WIEN2K code. In present computation, we have used most suitable modified Backe-Johnson (mBJ) potential under the framework of density functional theory (DFT). The calculated electronic properties like energy band structure and density of states spectra show that these materials exhibit a direct band gap (Γ–Γ) result of 3.22 eV and 2.36 eV for CdGa2S4 and CdGa2Se4 compounds, respectively. Absorption spectra for CdGa2X4 (X = S, Se) compounds have been studied and it has been found that above the band gap, absorption are taking place and it covers wide visible spectrum energy range. On the basis of calculated band gap, density of states and absorption coefficient spectra, it is found that these compounds can be suitably applicable in optoelectronic devices such as solar cell. The evaluated properties pose well agreement with available experimental data.
Biodegradable Mg Strengthened Poly-Lactic Acid Composite through Interfacial Properties
Authors: Butt Muhammad Shoaib , Bai Jing , Xue Feng
Published: July 2017

High-strength magnesium alloy (AZ31) reinforced poly-lactic acid (PLA) composite rods for potential application of bone fracture fixation prepared by plastic injection process on Mg rod.Thecomposities possess improved the interfacial bonding between poly-lactic acid and Mg rod due to the micro-anchoring which lead to better mechanical performance in Simulated body fluid solution.The present results indicated that this new PLA-clad Mg composite rods show good potential for biomedical applications.
Synthesis of LiFePO4/C Composites Cathode via Solid-Phase Method
Authors: Sun Ling Na , Yuan Zhi Yang , Xue Yan Fen , Hong Wei Liang , Ren Xiang Zhong , Zhang Pei Xin
Published: July 2017

The cathode material LiFePO4/C composites were synthesized by solid-phase method using cheap and extensive FePO4 as iron ingredients and glucose as carbon source. The synthesis conditions were studied by changing the calcined temperatures and the ratio of lithium. The results show that the LiFePO4/C composite synthesized at 600 °C for 10 h exhibits the most homogeneous particle size distribution and excellent electrochemical properties. And it exhibits a specific discharge capacity of 127 mA h/g at 1 C.
The Study of Ion Beam Assisted Deposition of CuInSe2 Absorber Films
Authors: Li Xue Lei , Feng Yu Dong , Wang Hu
Published: July 2017

Based on the selenium ion beam assisted magnetron sequential sputtering technology, low temperature deposition of CIS thin-film solar cells in high quality can be achieved. By comparing with the method of conventional gas phase atomic deposition, and through simulated analysis from the perspective of diffusion uniformity, numerical calculation on the depth of ion beam injection is proceeded. First, according to the classical collision theory in molecular dynamics, the theoretical calculation on the process of ion implantation is done; the concentration distribution of implanted selenium ions can be got by using TRIM program for simulation analysis. On this basis, the concentration distribution of selenium ion after diffusion can be further obtained. Finally, the calculation model is established; through comparison and analysis, when the selenium diffusion uniformity is same in the both conditions, the substrate temperature T1 needed for ion beam assisted deposition and the substrate temperature T2 needed for gas phase atomic deposition are respectively calculated. The calculation results show that on the premise of merely considering the depth of implanted ions, from the perspective of the diffusion uniformity, the selenium ion beam assisted deposition technique can obviously reduce the substrate temperature comparing with traditional vapor deposition technology.
Chronic In Vivo Interaction of Dendritic Cells Expressing the Ligand Rae-1ε with NK Cells Impacts NKG2D Expression and Function
Authors: Morvan Maelig G , Champsaur Marine , Reizis Boris , Lanier Lewis L
Published: July 2017

To investigate how dendritic cells (DCs) interact with NK cells in vivo, we developed a novel mouse model in which Rae-1ε, a ligand of the NKG2D receptor, is expressed in cells with high levels of CD11c. In these CD11c-Rae1 mice, expression of Rae-1 was confirmed on all subsets of DCs and a small subset of B and T cells, but not on NK cells. DC numbers and activation status were unchanged, and NK cells in these CD11c-Rae1 mice presented the same Ly49 repertoire and maturation levels as their littermate wildtype controls. Early NK cell activation after mouse CMV infection was slightly lower than in wildtype mice, but NK cell expansion and viral control were comparable. Notably, we demonstrate that chronic interaction of NK cells with NKG2D ligand–expressing DCs leads to a reversible NKG2D down-modulation, as well as impaired NKG2D-dependent NK cell functions, including tumor rejection. In addition to generating a useful mouse model, our studies reveal in vivo the functional importance of the NK cell and DC cross-talk.
Lacrimal Gland NK Cells Are Developmentally and Functionally Similar to Conventional NK Cells
Authors: Erick Timothy K , Grigoryan Lilit , Brossay Laurent
Published: July 2017

The murine lacrimal gland (LG), which produces crucial components of the ocular tear film, contains a population of NK cells. LG NK cells appear to belong to the conventional NK cell lineage, based on their cell surface receptor and transcription factor expression, absence in NFIL3−/− mice, and lack of RORγt expression during development. LG NK cells produce IFN-γ during the early stages of systemic murine CMV (MCMV) infection. This effector response occurs in the absence of noticeable MCMV replication in the LG, indicating that LG NK cells are being activated by soluble factors. However, the magnitude of LG NK cell IFN-γ production during MCMV infection is significantly lower than for spleen and liver NK cells. Adoptive-transfer experiments in lymphopenic mice revealed that this hyporesponsive phenotype is tissue specific, which indicates that LG NK cells can produce a robust effector response.
Role for ZAP-70 Signaling in the Differential Effector Functions of Rituximab and Obinutuzumab (GA101) in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia B Cells
Authors: Skopelja-Gardner Sladjana , Jones Jonathan D. , Hamilton B. JoNell , Danilov Alexey V. , Rigby William F. C.
Published: July 2017

Rituximab (RTX) has been the hallmark anti-CD20 mAb for the treatment of B cell neoplasms, including B cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL). Recently, a novel humanized anti-CD20 mAb obinutuzumab (GA101) has been implemented as first-line CLL therapy. Treatment of CLL patients with RTX is associated with CD20 loss via an FcγR-mediated process, trogocytosis. RTX-induced trogocytosis has been characterized as both the means of resistance to therapy, via loss of cell surface target proteins (antigenic modulation), as well as a process that alters B cell phenotype and function. This study investigates the nature and clinical relevance of GA101-mediated trogocytosis. In this study, we demonstrate that GA101 is a more potent mediator of trogocytosis than RTX in vitro in both normal B cells and B-CLL cells. Qualitative differences in the effector function of these anti-CD20 Abs appear specific to B-CLL cells. GA101-mediated CD19 and CD20 trogocytosis from B-CLL cells is associated with its ability to induce homotypic adhesion (HA). The degree of HA varies between CLL patients and positively correlates with the expression of ZAP-70, a BCR-associated kinase. Deregulation of ZAP-70 using tyrosine kinase inhibitors, gefitinib or ibrutinib, diminishes HA formation and trogocytosis by GA101. Taken together, these findings elucidate the differences in trogocytosis and HA formation mediated by anti-CD20 mAbs RTX and GA101, as well as provide a novel link between ZAP-70 expression and these effector functions.
Getting boarded and beyond; a personalized guide for international medical graduates
Authors: Sagar Ala-Eddin , Al Dliw Majdi
Published: July 2017

For some international medical graduates (IMGs), becom- ing an American Board of Medicine Diplomate (ABIM) may sound extremely hard or perhaps impossible. Those who think this way forget the obvious fact that almost 25 percent of the medical workforce in the United States started exactly like them as international medical graduates. It may also come to everyone’s surprise that the number of non-US citizens IMGs continues to grow, and has been the highest ever last year based on the latest National Resi- dency Matching Program Report. Moreover, the match rate for non-U.S. citizen IMGs continues to grow to reach 50.5% in 2016, up from 49.4% in 2015.

In this paper, we reflect on our own journey from being in- ternational medical graduates preparing for the United States Medical Licensing Exams (USMLEs) to American board certified physicians and will take you a step further through the initial steps of fellowship. We hope this will help guide other IMG’s to make their dream, one day, come true.
Vitamin B12 deficiency in patients with type 2 diabetes on metformin therapy
Authors: Elsaier Aisha , Elamami Adela , Zaid Iman
Published: July 2017

Background: Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause peripheral neuropathy. Metformin use is associated with vitamin B12 deficiency. Objective: To define the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its possible relation to metformin therapy. Patients and Methods: A crosssectional study of T2DM patients on chronic metformin therapy was conducted at Benghazi Diabetic Center during 2011. Demographic data, type, and duration of treatment reported adherence, and vitamin B treatment were all documented. History and examination for evidence of peripheral neuropathy were recorded. Serum vitamin B12 levels were measured (reference value 159-1000 pg/ml). Results: 500 patients were included of whom 175 were males (35%). Mean (SD) age was 58.6 ± 9.9 years and duration of diabetes 13.6 ± 8.4 years. Of these 358 (71.8%) were on insulin and metformin' 93 (18.6%) on sulphonylureas and metformin, 26 (5.2%) were on insulin and sulphonylurea and metformin triple monotherapy. Mean serum B12 level for all patients was 439 ± 212 pg/ml with males having significantly higher levels than females (512 ± 226 vs. 399± 193; p=0.001). Vitamin B12 levels were <159 pg/ml in 2%, <200 p g/ml in 7.4%, and <300 pg/ml in 30.8% of the patients. There was no significant difference in the B12 levels among patients who were adherent to metformin therapy and those who were not (432 ± 206 vs. 448 ± 219 pg/ml; p=0.4). Serum B12 levels were not different in the patient with history and/or examination suggestive of neuropathy and patients who have any (443 ± 216 vs. 423 ± 204; p=0.5. Conclusions: The prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in diabetic patients attending Benghazi diabetic center was dependent on the cut off points used. This is comparable with previous studies. No clear relationship was evident with metformin therapy nor with neuropathy.
Glycemic control for type 1 diabetic children in Tripoli children Hospital, Tripoli, Libya
Authors: Rajab Faten , Gliwan Salha , Moktar Asma
Published: July 2017

Background: Management of type 1 DM (T1DM) has changed dramatically over the past 30 years. Newer insulin regimens improved the ability to maintain nearnormal glycaemia safely. We aimed to audit our experience with two different strategies of insulin therapy namely premixed insulin (BD) and multiple daily injections (MDI) by assessment of well being, glycemic control and risk of acute complications. Patients and Methods: Patients T1DM for at least 1year who are attending at the endocrine clinic in Tripoli Children's Hospital between 2006 and 2007 were studied. Patients who were on BD insulin and got changed to MDI insulin were reviewed (20 patients) and those who on BD insulin and poor diabetic control (HbA1C > 9) were switched to MDI and were followed up for 1 year. The age of patients at the time of diagnosis of DM ranged from 2-16 years (mean 8.2±3.2 years). Results: 88% of patients were on twice daily therapy for about 1-6 years before they were switched to MDI; when we reviewed patient's age at starting MDI, our patients can be divided in 2 groups, 1st group includes patients aged from 2-7yrs (younger age group) and they were on twice daily therapy and second group patients aged from 8-16 years with mean age 13yrs±2.4years on MDI. After one year of follow up, 70% had normal weight, 24% were underweight and 6% were overweight. 2% of patients on BD insulin had HbA1c <7% improved to 26% after one year on MDI. 30% of those on BD insulin had acceptable HbA1c 7-9% which improved to 56%after one year on MDI. 68% of those on BD insulin with poor glycemic control (HbA1c>9%) improved to 18% on MDI for one year (P<0.001 for all groups). Hypoglycemia occurred in 26% of patients on BD insulin therapy reduced to only 2% after they were switched to MDI. Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), occurred in 14% of patients on BD insulin therapy reduced to none in children on MDI therapy. Conclusion: Most of our patients who has received MDI have better growth, glycemic control and experienced less hypoglycemia and DKA. We recommend generalization of intensive insulin therapy as the standard of care to all our patients.