bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
IceCube: A Kilometer-Scale Neutrino Observatory at the South Pole
Authors: Halzen Francis
Published: March 2016

Solving the century-old puzzle of how and where cosmic rays are accelerated mostly drives the design of high-energy neutrino telescopes. It calls, along with a diversity of science goals reaching particle physics, astrophysics and cosmology, for the construction of a kilometer-scale neutrino detector. This led to the IceCube concept to transform a kilometer cube of transparent Antarctic Ice, one mile below the South Pole, into a neutrino telescope.
The Case for a 30m Diameter Submillimeter Telescope on the Antarctic Plateau
Authors: Stark Antony A.
Published: March 2016

A large single-dish submillimeter-wave telescope equipped with a focal plane array containing ~ 104 bolometers and costing about $120M could locate most protogalaxies in the southern sky within a year of operation.
Extremely Large Telescopes on the Antarctic plateau
Authors: Lawrence J.S.
Published: March 2016

The primary limitation to the performance of any large ground-based telescope is the atmospheric properties of its site, particularly the sky emission and the turbulence structure. There are several sites on the Antarctic plateau (South Pole, Dome C and Dome A) for which the increase in infrared sensitivity relative to a mid-latitude site should be as much as two orders of magnitude. The unique turbulent structure above Dome C indicates that an extremely large telescope equipped with only a natural guide star adaptive optics system should achieve equivalent resolution to a mid-latitude extremely large telescope with a multi-conjugate multi-laser guide star system.
Adaptive Optics and Interferometry on the Antarctic Plateau
Authors: Lloyd James P.
Published: March 2016

The unique properties of atmospheric turbulence in atmosphere above the Antarctic plateau offer some compelling advantages for astronomical adaptive optics and interferometry. The shallow nature of the turbulent layer at the South Pole results in low scintillation and large angular coherence (Marks et al. 1996, 1999; Lloyd, Oppenheimer, & Graham 2002; Lloyd et al. 2003). Recent wintertime SODAR measurements at Dome C indicate that similar conditions exist at Dome C, but that the turbulent layer is likely both weaker and shallower. This paper discusses the outcomes of such conditions on the atmospheric properties for astronomy. Particularly due to the low wind speed at Dome C, the atmospheric properties are highly favorable for adaptive optics and interferometry. The resulting long coherence time enables adaptive optics at visible wavelengths, and the large angular coherence results in a useful field of view as a result.
CMB Observations from the Antarctic Plateau
Authors: Sironi G. , Boella G. , Gervasi M. , Passerini A. , Tartari A. , Zannoni M.
Published: March 2016

CMB studies from the Antarctic Plateau are presented.
Why Astronomy is Useful and Should be Included in the School Curriculum
Authors: Percy John R.
Published: March 2016

Even in my astronomically-developed province of Ontario, Canada, with an excellent public education system, astronomy was not a compulsory topic in the school curriculum until quite recently. So I began collecting a list of reasons why it should be, in the hope of persuading those who set the curriculum.

It would be instructive, however, to start by asking: “Why is astronomy not included in the curriculum?” Here are some possible reasons: (i) Astronomy is perceived to be irrelevant to practical concerns such as health, nutrition, agriculture, environment, engineering, and the economy in general; this is particularly true in developing countries, (ii) Most school teachers have little or no knowledge of astronomy, or astronomy teaching; in fact, they may have the same deeply-rooted misconceptions as their students, (iii) Astronomy is perceived as requiring night-time activities (“the stars come out at night, the students don’t”), and expensive and complex equipment such as telescopes, (iv) Astronomy is perceived as being solely “Western” by some non-Western cultures. (v) There may be conflict – real or perceived – between astronomy and personal beliefs such as religion, culture, and pseudo-science; in fact, astronomy is sometimes viewed as being as speculative as pseudo-science, (vi) Many of the available resources are designed for affluent schools in affluent countries, or for different latitudes, longitudes, and languages, (vii) Astronomy may be seen as allied with high technology, with all its real and perceived dangers.
In-Service Astronomy Education of Teachers
Authors: Gerbaldi Michèle
Published: March 2016

Astronomy education of school teachers is reviewed in the context of in-service training when astronomy is part of the curriculum, or not. Methods and results are presented based on experiences of teacher training during 25 years, in France.
Astronomy Curriculum for Developing Countries
Authors: Rijsdijk Case
Published: March 2016

After the democratization of South African society it became clear that there was a need to develop a new curriculum. This process started in the early 1990’s and the implementation of a new curriculum began in 1998. The South African experience also gives an indication of how best astronomers, and other scientists, can intervene to maximize their impact.
Paravascular pathways contribute to vasculitis and neuroinflammation after subarachnoid hemorrhage independently of glymphatic control
Authors: Luo C , Yao X , Li J , He B , Liu Q , Ren H , Liang F , Li M , Lin H , Peng J , Yuan T F , Pei Z , Su H
Published: March 2016

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a devastating disease with high mortality. The mechanisms underlying its pathological complications have not been fully identified. Here, we investigate the potential involvement of the glymphatic system in the neuropathology of SAH. We demonstrate that blood components rapidly enter the paravascular space following SAH and penetrate into the perivascular parenchyma throughout the brain, causing disastrous events such as cerebral vasospasm, delayed cerebral ischemia, microcirculation dysfunction and widespread perivascular neuroinflammation. Clearance of the paravascular pathway with tissue-type plasminogen activator ameliorates the behavioral deficits and alleviates histological injury of SAH. Interestingly, AQP4−/− mice showed no improvements in neurological deficits and neuroinflammation at day 7 after SAH compared with WT control mice. In conclusion, our study proves that the paravascular pathway dynamically mediates the pathological complications following acute SAH independently of glymphatic control.
Correction: Corrigendum: Modulation of expression of genes involved in glycosaminoglycan metabolism and lysosome biogenesis by flavonoids
Authors: Moskot Marta , Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka Joanna , Kloska Anna , Smolińska Elwira , Mozolewski Paweł , Malinowska Marcelina , Rychłowski Michał , Banecki Bogdan , Węgrzyn Grzegorz , Gabig-Cimińska Magdalena
Published: March 2016

Scientific Reports 5: Article number: 9378; published online: 23 March 2015; updated: 31 March 2016 This Article contains an error in Figure 3, where the numbers of genes are incorrectly indicated in the 24-hour and 48-hour sections. The correct Figure 3 appears below as Fig. 1.
Involvement of Rab6a in organelle rearrangement and cytoskeletal organization during mouse oocyte maturation
Authors: Ma Rujun , Zhang Jiaqi , Liu Xiaohui , Li Ling , Liu Honglin , Rui Rong , Gu Ling , Wang Qiang
Published: March 2016

Rab GTPases have been reported to define the identity and transport routes of vesicles. Rab6 is one of the most extensively studied Rab proteins involved in regulating organelle trafficking and integrity maintenance. However, to date, the function of Rab6 in mammalian oocytes has not been addressed. Here we report severe disorganization of endoplasmic reticulum upon specific knockdown of Rab6a in mouse oocytes. In line with this finding, intracellular Ca2+ stores are accordingly reduced in Rab6a-depleted oocytes. Furthermore, in these oocytes, we observe the absence of cortical granule free domain, which is a kind of special organelle in matured oocytes and its exocytosis is calcium dependent. On the other hand, following Rab6a knockdown, the prominent defects of cytoskeletal structures are detected during oocyte meiosis. In particular, the majority of Rab6a-depleted oocytes fail to form the actin cap and the frequency of spindle defects and chromosome misalignment is significantly elevated. In summary, our data reveal that Rab6a not only participates in modulating the organization of oocyte organelles, but also is a novel regulator of meiotic apparatus in mammalian oocytes.
“Juggling” Behavior in Wild Hainan Gibbons, a New Finding in Nonhuman Primates
Authors: Deng Huaiqing , Zhou Jiang
Published: March 2016

Many species of primates use tools and manipulate objects. Environmental objects, such as sticks and branches, are used in locomotion, display, conflict, nesting and foraging. This study presents observations regarding endangered male Hainan gibbons (Nomascus hainanus) selecting sticks and then throwing and catching them repeatedly. This act of Hainan gibbons was termed as “juggling” behavior. This study is the first record of branch use of this kind in free-living gibbons. While it is impossible to experiment on this only remaining population of Hainan gibbons, the deliberate acquisition and then throwing and catching of a stick raises myriad questions regarding their function. The study determined that the juggling behavior of Hainan gibbons, in the process of their brachiation, helps them accurately judge the distance and support strength of an object. It was also found that an adult individual’s proficiency in juggling behavior was much higher than that of a youth. Of all gibbon species, the juggling behavior of Hainan gibbon has a high degree of behavior refinement. Gibbons have the longest forearm than any other primates, which helps them in such performances—a unique mechanism that allows them to perform such unique activities, including juggling.
A non-human primate model of radiation-induced cachexia
Authors: Cui Wanchang , Bennett Alexander W. , Zhang Pei , Barrow Kory R. , Kearney Sean R. , Hankey Kim G. , Taylor-Howell Cheryl , Gibbs Allison M. , Smith Cassandra P. , MacVittie Thomas J.
Published: March 2016

Cachexia, or muscle wasting, is a serious health threat to victims of radiological accidents or patients receiving radiotherapy. Here, we propose a non-human primate (NHP) radiation-induced cachexia model based on clinical and molecular pathology findings. NHP exposed to potentially lethal partial-body irradiation developed symptoms of cachexia such as body weight loss in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Severe body weight loss as high as 20–25% was observed which was refractory to nutritional intervention. Radiographic imaging indicated that cachectic NHP lost as much as 50% of skeletal muscle. Histological analysis of muscle tissues showed abnormalities such as presence of central nuclei, inflammation, fatty replacement of skeletal muscle and muscle fiber degeneration. Biochemical parameters such as hemoglobin and albumin levels decreased after radiation exposure. Levels of FBXO32 (Atrogin-1), ActRIIB and myostatin were significantly changed in the irradiated cachectic NHP compared to the non-irradiated NHP. Our data suggest NHP that have been exposed to high dose radiation manifest cachexia-like symptoms in a time- and dose-dependent manner. This model provides a unique opportunity to study the mechanism of radiation-induced cachexia and will aid in efficacy studies of mitigators of this disease.
Intrinsic temperature-dependent evolutions in the electron-boson spectral density obtained from optical data
Authors: Hwang Jungseek
Published: March 2016

We investigate temperature smearing effects on the electron-boson spectral density function (I2χ(ω)) obtained from optical data using a maximum entropy inversion method. We start with two simple model input I2χ(ω), calculate the optical scattering rates at selected temperatures using the model input spectral density functions and a generalized Allen’s formula, then extract back I2χ(ω) at each temperature from the calculated optical scattering rate using the maximum entropy method (MEM) which has been used for analysis of optical data of high-temperature superconductors including cuprates, and finally compare the resulting I2χ(ω) with the input ones. From this approach we find that the inversion process can recover the input I2χ(ω) almost perfectly when the quality of fits is good enough and also temperature smearing (or thermal broadening) effects appear in the I2χ(ω) when the quality of fits is not good enough. We found that the coupling constant and the logarithmically averaged frequency are robust to the temperature smearing effects and/or the quality of fits. We use these robust properties of the two quantities as criterions to check whether experimental data have intrinsic temperature-dependent evolutions or not. We carefully apply the MEM to two material systems (one optimally doped and the other underdoped cuprates) and conclude that the I2χ(ω) extracted from the optical data contain intrinsic temperature-dependent evolutions.
Dysregulated 14-3-3 Family in Peripheral Blood Leukocytes of Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Qing Ying , Sun Liya , Yang Chao , Jiang Jie , Yang Xuhan , Hu Xiaowen , Cui Donghong , Xu Yifeng , He Lin , Han Dongmei , Wan Chunling
Published: March 2016

The 14-3-3 family, which is composed of seven distinct members in humans, plays important roles in the cell cycle, apoptosis, synaptic plasticity and neuronal differentiation and migration. Previous genetic and post-mortem gene expression studies have linked this family to schizophrenia. However, the direction of gene expression changes in these studies has been inconsistent, and reports of 14-3-3 gene expression in living schizophrenic patients are still lacking. Here, we assessed 14-3-3 gene and protein expression levels in peripheral blood leukocytes from drug-naïve first-episode schizophrenic patients and matched controls. mRNA and protein expression levels were quantified by qRT-PCR and UPLC-MRM/MS, respectively. Expression analysis revealed four downregulated and one upregulated mRNA transcripts as well as five downregulated protein levels of 14-3-3 isoforms in schizophrenia. Moreover, significant positive correlations between 14-3-3 mRNA and protein expression levels were found in schizophrenia, and we also identified negative correlations between ε, θ and ζ isoform expression levels and positive symptoms of schizophrenia. Our results suggest that gene and protein expression levels for the 14-3-3 family are dysregulated in schizophrenia, perhaps owing to specific regulatory mechanisms, and we also suggest that expression of the 14-3-3ε, θ and ζ isoform genes could be useful indicators of disease severity.
Large and Anisotropic Linear Magnetoresistance in Single Crystals of Black Phosphorus Arising From Mobility Fluctuations
Authors: Hou Zhipeng , Yang Bingchao , Wang Yue , Ding Bei , Zhang Xiaoming , Yao Yuan , Liu Enke , Xi Xuekui , Wu Guangheng , Zeng Zhongming , Liu Zhongyuan , Wang Wenhong
Published: March 2016

Black Phosphorus (BP) is presently attracting immense research interest on the global level due to its high mobility and suitable band gap for potential application in optoelectronics and flexible devices. It was theoretically predicted that BP has a large direction-dependent electrical and magnetotransport anisotropy. Investigations on magnetotransport of BP may therefore provide a new platform for studying the nature of electron transport in layered materials. However, to the best of our knowledge, magnetotransport studies, especially the anisotropic magnetoresistance (MR) effect in layered BP, are rarely reported. Here, we report a large linear MR up to 510% at a magnetic field of 7 Tesla in single crystals of BP. Analysis of the temperature and angle dependence of MR revealed that the large linear MR in our sample originates from mobility fluctuations. Furthermore, we reveal that the large linear MR of layered BP in fact follows a three-dimensional behavior rather than a two-dimensional one. Our results have implications to both the fundamental understanding and magnetoresistive device applications of BP.
Quantum stochastic walks on networks for decision-making
Authors: Martínez-Martínez Ismael , Sánchez-Burillo Eduardo
Published: March 2016

Recent experiments report violations of the classical law of total probability and incompatibility of certain mental representations when humans process and react to information. Evidence shows promise of a more general quantum theory providing a better explanation of the dynamics and structure of real decision-making processes than classical probability theory. Inspired by this, we show how the behavioral choice-probabilities can arise as the unique stationary distribution of quantum stochastic walkers on the classical network defined from Luce’s response probabilities. This work is relevant because (i) we provide a very general framework integrating the positive characteristics of both quantum and classical approaches previously in confrontation and (ii) we define a cognitive network which can be used to bring other connectivist approaches to decision-making into the quantum stochastic realm. We model the decision-maker as an open system in contact with her surrounding environment and the time-length of the decision-making process reveals to be also a measure of the process’ degree of interplay between the unitary and irreversible dynamics. Implementing quantum coherence on classical networks may be a door to better integrate human-like reasoning biases in stochastic models for decision-making.
Novel polymer micelle mediated co-delivery of doxorubicin and P-glycoprotein siRNA for reversal of multidrug resistance and synergistic tumor therapy
Authors: Zhang Chun-ge , Zhu Wen-jing , Liu Yang , Yuan Zhi-qiang , Yang Shu-di , Chen Wei-liang , Li Ji-zhao , Zhou Xiao-feng , Liu Chun , Zhang Xue-nong
Published: March 2016

Co-delivery of chemotherapeutics and siRNA with different mechanisms in a single system is a promising strategy for effective cancer therapy with synergistic effects. In this study, a triblock copolymer micelle was prepared based on the polymer of N-succinyl chitosan–poly-L-lysine–palmitic acid (NSC–PLL–PA) to co-deliver doxorubicin (Dox) and siRNA–P-glycoprotein (P-gp) (Dox–siRNA-micelle). Dox–siRNA-micelle was unstable in pH 5.3 medium than in pH 7.4 medium, which corresponded with the in vitro rapid release of Dox and siRNA in acidic environments. The antitumor efficacy of Dox–siRNA-micelle in vitro significantly increased, especially in HepG2/ADM cells, which was due to the downregulation of P-gp. Moreover, almost all the Dox–siRNA-micelles accumulated in the tumor region beyond 24 h post-injection and the co-delivery system significantly inhibited tumor growth with synergistic effects in vivo. This study demonstrated the effectiveness of Dox–siRNA-micelles in tumor-targeting and MDR reversal and provided a promising strategy to develop a co-delivery system with synergistic effects for combined cancer therapy.
Overweight, resting heart rate and prediabetes/diabetes: A population-based prospective cohort study among Inner Mongolians in China
Authors: Zhang Shao Yan , Wu Jia Hui , Zhou Jing Wen , Liang Zhu , Qiu Qiao Yan , Xu Tian , Zhang Ming Zhi , Zhong Chong Ke , Jiang Wei , Zhang Yong Hong
Published: March 2016

We aimed to investigate the cumulative effect of overweight and resting heart rate on prediabetes/diabetes incidence in an 10-year follow-up study in Inner Mongolians. Among 1729 participants who were free from prediabetes and diabetes at baseline, 503 and 155 subjects developed prediabetes and diabetes, respectively. We categorized the participants into 4 subgroups according to overweight and resting heart rate status. The multivariate-adjusted OR (95% CI) in normal weight with heart rate ≥80 bpm, overweight with heart rate <80 bpm and overweight with heart rate ≥80 bpm were 1.24 (0.95–1.61), 1.83 (1.29–2.61), 2.20 (1.41–3.45) for prediabetes and 1.52 (0.97–2.40), 3.64 (2.21–6.01), 4.61 (2.47–8.61) for diabetes, respectively, compared with normal weight with heart rate <80 bpm. The area under ROC curve (AUC) for the prediction of diabetes incidence for a model containing overweight and resting heart rate, along with conventional factors (AUC = 0.751), was significantly (P = 0.003) larger than the one containing only conventional factors (AUC = 0.707). Our study indicated that overweight was an independent risk factor of prediabetes and diabetes and overweight with faster resting heart rate might further increase the risk of prediabetes and diabetes.
Identification of HNF-4α as a key transcription factor to promote ChREBP expression in response to glucose
Authors: Meng Jian , Feng Ming , Dong Weibing , Zhu Yemin , Li Yakui , Zhang Ping , Wu Lifang , Li Minle , Lu Ying , Chen Hanbei , Liu Xing , Lu Yan , Sun Haipeng , Tong Xuemei
Published: March 2016

Transcription factor carbohydrate responsive element binding protein (ChREBP) promotes glycolysis and lipogenesis in metabolic tissues and cancer cells. ChREBP-α and ChREBP-β, two isoforms of ChREBP transcribed from different promoters, are both transcriptionally induced by glucose. However, the mechanism by which glucose increases ChREBP mRNA levels remains unclear. Here we report that hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha (HNF-4α) is a key transcription factor for glucose-induced ChREBP-α and ChREBP-β expression. Ectopic HNF-4α expression increased ChREBP transcription while knockdown of HNF-4α greatly reduced ChREBP mRNA levels in liver cancer cells and mouse primary hepatocytes. HNF-4α not only directly bound to an E-box-containing region in intron 12 of the ChREBP gene, but also promoted ChREBP-β transcription by directly binding to two DR1 sites and one E-box-containing site of the ChREBP-β promoter. Moreover, HNF-4α interacted with ChREBP-α and synergistically promoted ChREBP-β transcription. Functionally, HNF-4α suppression reduced glucose-dependent ChREBP induction. Increased nuclear abundance of HNF-4α and its binding to cis-elements of ChREBP gene in response to glucose contributed to glucose-responsive ChREBP transcription. Taken together, our results not only revealed the novel mechanism by which HNF-4α promoted ChREBP transcription in response to glucose, but also demonstrated that ChREBP-α and HNF-4α synergistically increased ChREBP-β transcription.
The plausible role of carbonate in photo-catalytic water oxidation processes
Authors: Kornweitz Haya , Meyerstein Dan
Published: March 2016

DFT calculations point out that the photo-oxidation of water on GaN is energetically considerably facilitated by adsorbed carbonate.
Predictive proteochemometric models for kinases derived from 3D protein field-based descriptors
Authors: Subramanian Vigneshwari , Prusis Peteris , Xhaard Henri , Wohlfahrt Gerd
Published: March 2016

Proteochemometric models of kinases derived from protein fields and ligand 4-point pharmacophoric fingerprints are predictive and visually interpretable.
A poloxamer-polypeptide thermosensitive hydrogel as a cell scaffold and sustained release depot
Authors: Lin Ji-Yu , Lai Po-Liang , Lin Yuan-Kai , Peng Sydney , Lee Li-Yu , Chen Chieh-Nan , Chu I-Ming
Published: March 2016

Herein, we report the synthesis and characterization of a novel positively charged thermosensitive hydrogel prepared from poloxamer (PLX)-poly(l-alanine-lysine) (Lys-Ala-PLX-Ala-Lys) that demonstrates potential in biomedical applications including tissue engineering and drug delivery.
Pyridofuropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrimidines and pyridofuropyrimido[1,2-a]azepines: new chemical entities (NCE) with anticonvulsive and psychotropic properties
Authors: Sirakanyan Samvel N. , Geronikaki Athina , Spinelli Domenico , Paronikyan Ruzanna G. , Dzhagatspanyan Irina A. , Nazaryan Ivetta M. , Akopyan Asmik H. , Hovakimyan Anush A.
Published: March 2016

A series of pyridofuropyrrolo[1,2-a]pyrimidines4and pyridofuropyrimido[1,2-a]azepines5, with new condensed furo[2,3-b]pyridines3as precursors, were synthesized and evaluated for their anticonvulsive and psychotropic properties.
A silver electrode based surface acoustic wave (SAW) mercury vapor sensor: a physio-chemical and analytical investigation
Authors: Kabir K. M. Mohibul , Sabri Ylias M. , Lay Bebeto , Ippolito Samuel J. , Bhargava Suresh K.
Published: March 2016

In this study, a surface acoustic wave based Hg0 vapour sensor was developed where Ag IDT electrodes were employed as lone sensing elements.
Photoinduced change in the shape of azobenzene-based molecular glass particles fixed in agar gel
Authors: Ichikawa Ryota , Nakano Hideyuki
Published: March 2016

A new photomechanical phenomenon was observed, in which azobenzene-based molecular glass particles fixed in an isotropic agar gel environment became elongated and formed string-like structures upon being irradiated with a linearly polarized laser beam.
Organic sensitizers with a rigid dithienobenzotriazole-based spacer for high-performance dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Ni Jen-Shyang , Yen Yi-Chi , Lin Jiann T.
Published: March 2016

Sensitizers with a rigidified spacer show J-aggregation enhanced photon-to-electron conversion of DSSCs and cell efficiencies up to 9.1% (1 sun) and 10.6% (0.25 sun), respectively.
Assessing Early Receptive Language Skills in Children With ASD
Authors: Muller Kristen , Brady Nancy
Published: March 2016

Language assessments play a large role in the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) because language impairments are often part of an ASD diagnosis and language status is a fundamental prognostic indicator for individuals with ASD. Receptive language forms the foundation for competent expressive language including literacy skills. Information from language assessments is also used to create therapy goals and monitor progress on these goals. Therefore, valid and accurate assessment of receptive language for individuals with ASD is paramount. Current assessments include tasks that are particularly difficult for individuals with ASD and often assess higher-level language skills and not emerging language skills, resulting in floor effects for individuals with ASD. Developing better receptive language measures is an important area for future research. Assessing and treating receptive language impairments will lead to improved expressive communication, including social communication, and literacy skills for individuals with ASD.
The Window to Language is Still Open: Distinguishing Between Preverbal and Minimally Verbal Children With ASD
Authors: DiStefano Charlotte , Kasari Connie
Published: March 2016

While a large number of preschool age children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) use no or little spoken language, only a portion will remain minimally verbal into elementary school. Determining whether a child is likely to remain minimally verbal past the preschool years is of great importance to families and clinicians, and can inform intervention efforts. Evidence from both behavioral and neuroimaging studies provide support for the idea that minimally verbal children with ASD have specific and unique expressive language deficits and are not simply at an earlier stage of language development. Intervention that focuses on pre-linguistic skills, such as joint attention, gestures, and vocalizations can be effective to increase language in pre- and minimally verbal children with ASD. The use of speech generating devices (SGD) has also been shown to support spoken language development in this population. Although many preschool aged children with ASD are using no or very little language, many of these children are in fact pre-verbal, and will continue to develop language skills. Targeted intervention, including a focus on pre-linguistic communication and SGD, will help support their language development.
A Little PEP Goes a Long Way in the Treatment of Pediatric Feeding Disorders
Authors: Boggs Teresa , Ferguson Neina
Published: March 2016

Feeding disorder in young children is a growing concern, particularly feeding challenges with sensory and/or behavioral underpinning. These feeding disorders are characterized by food refusal, anxiety when presented with novel foods, failure to advance to textured foods, and inappropriate mealtime behaviors. The Positive Eating Program (PEP) was developed to remediate feeding disorders by providing rich experiences in food vocabulary, positive sensory nonfood and food activities, and structured and predictable through trials.
Bridging the Gap: SLP Approaches for Persons With Early Stage Dementia
Authors: Tristani Michelle
Published: March 2016

Philosophically different pathways and opinions exist regarding speech-language pathology services for persons living with dementia. Many believe we should be involved in leveling or staging all dementia patients and that our services are medically necessary for most diagnosed with dementia. Others deem that speech-language pathology services are not beneficial for this population and that we should not be involved because of the progressive nature of the disease and its resulting obstruction to learning new information. Achieving a clinically appropriate balance is needed if we are to bridge the gap between both approaches. Realization of a middle ground calls for agreement regarding criteria for cognitive evaluation, components of skilled cognitive intervention, and a framework for significant progress. Once consensus is achieved for these preliminary elements, speech-language pathologists will be in a better position to: develop functional, reasonable, and necessary cognitive treatment procedures; formulate objective, measurable, and individualized goals; and prioritize safety, communication, and quality of life within cognitive management pathways for all stages of dementia. The early stage dementia diagnosis presents unique challenges and opportunities for speech-language pathologists. We begin here in reducing the gap in our cognitive approaches for the dementia population.
Staging and Treatment Frameworks for Dementia Management
Authors: Mason-Baughman Mary Beth , Raupp Skye , Corman Kristin
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this article is to introduce the 2016 SIG 15 Perspectives series that will focus on issues pertinent to the different stages of dementia. This article will provide current statistics on prevalence, incidence, types, and classifications of dementia. It will also discuss various methods for staging the cognitive-communicative deficits associated with dementia progression and appropriate treatment approaches for each stage.
Oxygen pressure control during the sputtering deposition of channel for flexible thin‐film transistors with low‐temperature process compatibility
Authors: Park M.J. , Lee W.H. , Kim K.A. , Yun D.J. , Yoon S.M.
Published: March 2016

Effects of oxygen pressure control during the sputtering deposition were investigated to obtain low‐temperature process compatibility for flexible In–Ga–Zn–O (IGZO) thin‐film transistors (TFTs). Device characteristics of the IGZO TFTs fabricated on the poly(ethylene) naphthalate substrates were optimised at an oxygen partial pressure of 2%. Device performances were successfully obtained even at a curvature radius of 2.6 mm under the bending situation. Robust bias‐stress and bias‐illumination stress stabilities were also confirmed at a process temperature as low as 150°C.
Partially observable Markov decision process‐based sensing scheduling for decentralised cognitive radio networks with the awareness of channel switching delay and imperfect sensing
Authors: Hoan Tran Nhut Khai , Koo Insoo
Published: March 2016

An optimal multi‐slot channel sensing schedule is proposed in this study that considers an opportunistic spectrum access with the awareness of channel switching delay and imperfect sensing. A practical case is considered where channel availability statistics are usually correlated in time slots and in frequency channels. The switching delays between channels, hardware constraints, and collision with other cognitive users are considered to find an optimal sensing order of the channels that maximises throughput of cognitive user. The optimal sensing order is obtained using the partially observable Markov decision process framework. Throughput of cognitive user, with and without channel sensing errors, is analytically derived and for each case an algorithm is developed. The proposed scheme mitigates the effect of channel sensing errors on the throughput. Performance of the proposed scheme is evaluated through simulations by comparing it with the existing schemes in the literature.
Efficient Filon‐type solution of highly oscillatory physical optics integrals by demodulating complementary error function
Authors: Mokhtari‐Koushyar Farzad , Shishegar Amir Ahmad
Published: March 2016

In this study, an efficient frequency‐independent and error‐controllable Filon‐type solution of highly oscillatory physical optics (PO) integrals on the quadratic surfaces is presented. In this method first, PO surface integral is decomposed into some analytically solvable integrals and one highly oscillatory integral (HOI) which must be solved numerically. Then, by demodulating complementary error function, the integrand of this HOI is decomposed into an oscillatory part and a slowly varying part (demodulated part). The demodulated part can be easily approximated by various types of basis functions, especially in high frequencies. Therefore, after approximating the demodulated part using the polynomials and exponential functions, the whole integrand is solved in closed form. Additionally, a new affine transformation is presented which approximately halves the total integration time. Finally, the accuracy and time efficiency of the proposed method and the transformation are studied and compared with numerical steepest descend path and brute force integration methods.
Fast multi‐objective surrogate‐assisted design of multi‐parameter antenna structures through rotational design space reduction
Authors: Koziel Slawomir , Bekasiewicz Adrian
Published: March 2016

A technique for fast multi‐objective optimisation of antennas is introduced. The core of the proposed methodology is a reliable initial estimation of the design space subset that contains a set of Pareto optimal solutions, i.e. those representing the best possible trade‐offs between the conflicting objectives (such as the antenna size and its electrical performance parameters). A fast response surface approximation (RSA) surrogate is subsequently constructed in a reduced search space using sampled coarse‐discretisation electromagnetic (EM) simulation data. Owing to the authors’ reduction approach, the surrogate model construction is computationally feasible even when the number of antenna parameters is high. The RSA model is optimised using a multi‐objective evolutionary algorithm to yield an initial approximation of the Pareto set. The latter is further refined (to obtain its representation at the high‐fidelity EM antenna model level). The approach is illustrated using two design cases. A comparison with previously published methods, as well as experimental validation, is also provided.
Failure analysis and maintenance of a surge capacitor on the neutral bus in a ±500 kV HVDC converter station
Authors: Yang Ming , Sima Wenxia , Han Xue , Wang Rong , Jiang Chilong , Mao Wenqi , Sun Potao
Published: March 2016

This study analyses a surge capacitor failure on the neutral bus in a ±500 kV high voltage direct current (HVDC) converter station. Both overvoltage and insulation of the surge capacitor are investigated through simulation, practical record data analysis, and experimentation. A highly accurate HVDC model is established on the basis of the topological structure and parameters of the HVDC project. Using this model, the failure process is simulated by combining neutral bus overvoltage record analysis and voltage divider performance test. Results indicate that the 246 kV uncharacteristically high overvoltage on the neutral bus is a measurement error caused by voltage divider fault. From the field test, difference equation of the voltage divider is derived to reconstruct the actual overvoltage, the amplitude of which is 73 kV. The amplitude is significantly lower than that of the switching impulse withstand level of the surge capacitor, which should not cause capacitor failure. Therefore, the primary cause of capacitor failure is insulation damage rather than overvoltage. Finally, maintenance measures are proposed and applied in the station.
Improved variable speed control of series‐connected DC wind turbines for offshore wind power collection to high‐voltage direct current system
Authors: Shi Gang , Zhang Jianwen , Cai Xu , Zhu Miao , Yao Liangzhong
Published: March 2016

DC wind farm (DCWF) with series‐connected DC wind turbines (DCWTs) is proved to be a potential solution of offshore wind power collection. The coupling behaviour of series‐connected DCWTs is described in detail. Possible wind energy curtailment during the period of wind turbine voltage limitation and its key impact factors are firstly quantitatively derived. A novel variable speed control strategy is proposed under voltage limiting condition of the DCWT to improve its wind energy capture. This control algorithm can be implemented in the local DCWT controller without the communication need. The specific variable speed control strategy of the DCWT is realised in a generalised averaged model. Dynamic simulation cases under different operation conditions have been conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy. It is found that the proposed control strategy might be a solution for wind energy curtailment, which will significantly improve the performance of the series‐connected DCWTs between the time scale above seconds and below minutes.
Bimolecular recombination reactions: K-adiabatic and K-active forms of the bimolecular master equations and analytic solutions
Authors: Ghaderi Nima
Published: March 2016

Expressions for a K-adiabatic master equation for a bimolecular recombination rate constant krec are derived for a bimolecular reaction forming a complex with a single well or complexes with multiple well, where K is the component of the total angular momentum along the axis of least moment of inertia of the recombination product. The K-active master equation is also considered. The exact analytic solutions, i.e., the K-adiabatic and K-active steady-state population distribution function of reactive complexes, g(EJK) and g(EJ), respectively, are derived for the K-adiabatic and K-active master equation cases using properties of inhomogeneous integral equations (Fredholm type). The solutions accommodate arbitrary intermolecular energy transfer models, e.g., the single exponential, double exponential, Gaussian, step-ladder, and near-singularity models. At the high pressure limit, the krec for both the K-adiabatic and K-active master equations reduce, respectively, to the K-adiabatic and K-active bimolecular Rice–Ramsperger–Kassel–Marcus theory (high pressure limit expressions). Ozone and its formation from O + O2 are known to exhibit an adiabatic K. The ratio of the K-adiabatic to the K-active recombination rate constants for ozone formation at the high pressure limit is calculated to be ∼0.9 at 300 K. Results on the temperature and pressure dependence of the recombination rate constants and populations of O3 will be presented elsewhere.
On board a raft or boat in the retrovirus sea
Authors: Svoboda Jan
Published: March 2016

Significance

The main significance of these long-term studies lies in establishing chicken Rous sarcoma virus (RSV) genome integration into a rodent species cell genome in the absence of infectious virus production. Infectious virus, however, can be rescued by fusion of RSV-transformed rodent cells with permissive chicken fibroblasts, which provide some functions critical for full virus expression. The nature of chicken factors required and the role of viral envelope changes are discussed.
A new moral sentimentalism
Authors: Vogelstein Eric
Published: March 2016

This paper argues for a novel sentimentalist realist metaethical theory, according to which moral wrongness is analyzed in terms of the sentiments one has most reason to have. As opposed to standard sentimentalist views, the theory does not employ sentiments that are had in response to morally wrong action, but rather sentiments that antecedently dispose people to refrain from immoral behavior, specifically the sentiments of compassion and respect.
Interrelation of wettability–microstructure–tensile strength of lead-free Sn–Ag and Sn–Bi solder alloys
Authors: Osório Wislei R. , Garcia Amauri
Published: March 2016

A comparative investigation on the wettability and tensile strength of a Sn–2Ag, a Sn–40Bi and the traditional eutectic Sn–Pb solder alloys was carried out. The wettability is represented by thickness of covered layer (TCL) and spread area (SA) while the mechanical behaviour by the ultimate tensile strength (UTS). It is shown that the TCL of studied alloys decreased with the increase in the dipping temperature. It is also shown that TCL and SA have opposite behaviour with respect to the cooling rate. The Sn–Bi solder alloy has lower SA when compared with those of the Sn–Ag solder when similar cooling rates are considered. The Sn–Bi solder exhibits the best UTS/SA combination for dendritic spacings between 25 and 27 µm, associated with cooling rates ∼2°C s−1, 2× lower than those of the Sn–Ag alloy. Besides, the Sn–Bi alloy has shown SA >70∼80% associated with higher UTS (∼80 MPa) as compared with the other alloys examined.
A Time Trend Study of Swedish Male and Female Homicide Offenders from 1990 to 2010
Authors: Trägårdh Karin , Nilsson Thomas , Granath Sven , Sturup Joakim
Published: March 2016

Homicide committed by female offenders is an understudied phenomenon. This study examines whether incidence rates of male-perpetrated and female-perpetrated homicide have changed from 1990 to 2010, and investigates similarities and differences between male and female homicide offenders, by examining a dataset comprising all cases of homicide in Sweden ( N = 1,570). The results indicate a decline in the incidence of both male-perpetrated and female-perpetrated homicide during the observed period, as well as stable proportions of female offenders. There were also pronounced differences between male and female homicide offenders with adult victims: victims of female offenders were more often male, intimate partners, intoxicated at the time of the offense, and killed by sharp force injuries. Previous violence between victim and offender was also more common in cases with female offenders, and they committed homicide-suicide less often. There were less pronounced differences between male and female homicide offenders with child victims, but female offenders more often used asphyxia and less often had previous convictions. It can be concluded that incidence rates for male-perpetrated and female-perpetrated homicide have decreased in Sweden, and that male and female offenders with child victims are more similar than male and female offenders with adult victims.
A transboundary dilemma: dichotomous designations of Atlantic halibut status in the Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Shackell Nancy L. , Frank Kenneth T. , Nye Janet A. , den Heyer Cornelia E.
Published: March 2016

We investigated conflicting perspectives over a transboundary species (Atlantic Halibut-Hippoglossus hippoglossus L.) assumed to be one population spanning the border separating the USA and Canada. In Canada, the fishery is certified as sustainable by the international Marine Stewardship Council (2013). In the USA, that same population is listed as a “Species of Concern” under the US Endangered Species Act (1973). There are fishery-independent trawl surveys conducted by both USA and Canada on juvenile halibut abundance across the border. The data are sorted and both nations use their own jurisdictional boundaries to define the geographical area of their separate stock assessments. Here, we undertake a spatially unified, in-depth comparison of juvenile halibut distribution and abundance, and quantify the amount of suitable habitat for halibut across both sides of the border from 1965 to 2014. Juvenile halibut abundance was, on average, five times greater in Canada than in USA waters. The median per cent of occupied sets in Canada was about four times greater than in the US (2.5%). These differences could not be explained by the availability of “suitable” habitat. The lack of halibut in US waters, in contrast to Canada, suggests a finer-scale stock structure exists and that halibut have not re-established in the USA due to historical serial overfishing. A gradient from high occupancy of halibut in Canada to lower occupancy in the USA is evident, suggestive of connectivity between the two areas and supported by a lag correlation analysis of temporal abundance trends. The USA may now be a sink to Canada's source of halibut. While both countries have been correct in their individual assessments, a bilateral assessment of halibut would benefit both nations, and could include analyses of how fishing patterns in Canada will influence the magnitude and speed of halibut re-colonization in the USA.
Toward a reverse adaptation view in cross-cultural management
Authors: Luo Yadong
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– Contrasting local adaptation, which focusses on foreign multinationals learning about and adapting to local (host country) culture and environment, reverse adaptation refers to the case where an MNE’s local employees learn, assimilate and modify their personal behavior (e.g. values, norms) and professional competence (e.g. standards, goals, language, knowledge, capabilities) in order to fit the MNE’s global mindset and global competence set so that they can be internationally reassigned. The purpose of this paper is to take the first step toward addressing this nascent phenomenon and practice.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study uses combined inductive and ethnographic methods to explore the importance, process and practice of reverse innovation. This study defines reverse adaptation, illustrates the major driving forces underlying reverse adaptation, and suggests how MNEs should prepare for it. As reverse adaptation is a promising area for research, this paper also proposes a research agenda for international management scholars.

Findings

– MNEs need to act at both local and global levels in a way that recognizes the interdependence between the two. Too often global companies have approached their local talent needs in an uncoordinated and unproductive way. Reverse adaptation view suggests that MNEs can create a competitive advantage by taking a global approach to talent. Cultivating and transforming local talent to become global talent necessitates endeavor from a wide range of corporate, subsidiary and individual levels, in cultural, professional, structural, informational and organizational aspects.

Originality/value

– Reverse adaptation is a promising area of research because it provides the opportunity to enrich mainstream theories and literatures in a number of areas. This nascent phenomenon has not yet been studied, and this paper represents the first effort to do so. From both academic and practice viewpoints, reverse adaptation has a significant impact on global talent management, knowledge flow across borders, capability catchup and global integration design. Today’s glocalized business world, with heightened integration of world economy, creates an expectation for the continuing growth of reverse adaptation.