bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Moses and Pharaoh's Magicians: A Discursive Analysis of the Qur'anic Narratives in the Light of Late Antique Texts and Traditions
Authors: Smith Andrew C.
Published: March 2018

This paper provides a comparative analysis of the Qur'anic narratives of Moses and Pharaoh's magicians and the Biblical narrative as transmitted through the targummim and Peshitta, and Jewish and Christian interpretive traditions. This analysis views these narratives as a means of better understanding the discursive development of the earliest Qur'anic community and how they assisted that community in making sense of its world. Viewing how the Qur'an deliberately crafts these narratives gives insights into the circumstances and context of its revelation, particularly as it makes deliberate choices related to textual readings. Such choices, I argue, impacted the discursive norms and attitudes of the community. Presenting the chronological relationship of the narratives illustrates such discursive development. This paper analyses the similarities and differences in the Biblical and Qur'anic narratives, focusing particularly on the narratological roles of Aaron, the nobles, and the magicians, to illustrate the homiletic and exhortatory messages impacting that discourse development. The effective use of these narratives as models for the ethical and moral behaviour of the believing community and its identity formation cannot be understated.
Derivatives of the Root n-k-ḥ (Relating to women) in the Qur'an: A Lexical and Contextual Study
Authors: Asad Arar Mahdi
Published: March 2018

This study is composed of four parts, the first of which outlines the objectives, parameters, and methodology that inform the research. The second part discusses the semantic range of the root n-k-ḥ as it occurs in Arabic lexicons and its contextual use in Arabic Speech. Part three deals with words derived from this root that relate to women as they occur in the Qur'an in the following typologies: al-marʾa al-mankūḥa, al-marʾa munkaḥa, al-marʾa al-mustankiḥa, al-marʾa al-nākih, and al-nikāḥ. The fourth and final part offers a concluding summary of the study and suggestions for further research.
Ti4O7/g-C3N4 Visible Light Photocatalytic Performance on Hypophosphite Oxidation: Effect of Annealing Temperature
Authors: Guan Wei , Sun Gaoge , Yin Lei , Zhang Zhenghua , Tian Shichao
Published: March 2018

The oxidation of hypophosphite to phosphate is the key to recover the phosphorus resource from the hypophosphite wastewater. In the present work, Ti4O7/g-C3N4 composites were synthesized at two different temperatures (100 and 160°C) and their performance on photocatalytic oxidation of hypophosphite under visible light irradiation and the corresponding mechanism were evaluated. A hydrolysis method using g-C3N4 and Ti4O7 was applied to synthesize the Ti4O7/g-C3N4 composites with their hybrid structure and morphology confirmed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS). The annealing temperature significantly affected the photocatalytic performance of Ti4O7/g-C3N4 that the 160-Ti4O7/g-C3N4 composite (fabricated at 160°C) showed the highest oxidation efficiency of hypophosphite of 81% and the highest photocatalytic oxidation rate of 0.467 h−1 comparing with the 100-Ti4O7/g-C3N4 composite (fabricated at 100°C) and pure g-C3N4. The enhanced photocatalytic performance of 160-Ti4O7/g-C3N4 could be ascribed to the effective charge separation and enhanced photoabsorption efficiency. Additionally, electron spin resonance (ESR) results showed that hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anion radicals were mainly responsible to the oxidation of hypophosphite with superoxide anion radicals accounting for a more significant contribution. Moreover, Ti4O7/g-C3N4 photocatalysts showed the remarkable stability in the repetitive experiments.
Selenium and Selenoproteins in Gut Inflammation—A Review
Authors: Nettleford Shaneice , Prabhu K.
Published: March 2018

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), characterized by severe flares and remissions, is a debilitating condition. While the etiology is unknown, many immune cells, such as macrophages, T cells and innate lymphoid cells, are implicated in the pathogenesis of the disease. Previous studies have shown the ability of micronutrient selenium (Se) and selenoproteins to impact inflammatory signaling pathways implicated in the pathogenesis of the disease. In particular, two transcription factors, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB), and peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR)γ, which are involved in the activation of immune cells, and are also implicated in various stages of inflammation and resolution, respectively, are impacted by Se status. Available therapies for IBD produce detrimental side effects, resulting in the need for alternative therapies. Here, we review the current understanding of the role of NF-κB and PPARγ in the activation of immune cells during IBD, and how Se and selenoproteins modulate effective resolution of inflammation to be considered as a promising alternative to treat IBD.
A Statistical Investigation of the Impact of the Indian Monsoon on the Eastern Mediterranean Circulation
Authors: Rizou Despina , Flocas Helena , Hatzaki Maria , Bartzokas Aristides
Published: March 2018

The Indian summer monsoon (ISM) is a prominent feature of the summer circulation in the Northern Hemisphere (NH) and has been found to modulate the weather and climate conditions in many remote regions. This study investigates the most recurrent patterns of summertime midlatitude circulation, over the eastern Mediterranean (EM) and also globally, that are most associated with the ISM. Monthly data of 44 summers from the ERA40 dataset are used and two multidimensional statistical methods, the Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Canonical Correlation Analysis (CCA), are implemented. The ISM is found to be related to subsidence anomalies in the middle and more extendedly in the upper troposphere over the central and eastern Mediterranean and with an Etesian-like pattern regarding the field of the lower troposphere winds. An equatorial Rossby wave pattern, extending westward from an ISM heat source up to EM and N. Africa, was identified to be associated with the variability of ISM. The observed relationship between the ISM and the EM circulation features can be attributed to this equatorial Rossby wave response to the monsoon forcing. CCA implementation revealed the interconnection of the aforementioned PCA results with an ISM action center over the northern Arabian Sea and the monsoon trough region.
Frequency Transient Suppression in Hybrid Electric Ship Power Systems: A Model Predictive Control Strategy for Converter Control with Energy Storage
Authors: Shagar Viknash , Jayasinghe Shantha , Enshaei Hossein
Published: March 2018

This paper aims to understand how the common phenomenon of fluctuations in propulsion and service load demand contribute to frequency transients in hybrid electric ship power systems. These fluctuations arise mainly due to changes in sea conditions resulting in significant variations in the propulsion load demand of ships. This leads to poor power quality for the power system that can potentially cause hazardous conditions such as blackout on board the ship. Effects of these fluctuations are analysed using a hybrid electric ship power system model and a proposed Model Predictive Control (MPC) strategy to prevent propagation of transients from the propellers into the shipboard power system. A battery energy storage system, which is directly connected to the DC-link of the frequency converter, is used as the smoothing element. Case studies that involve propulsion and service load changes have been carried out to investigate the efficacy of the proposed solution. Simulation results show that the proposed solution with energy storage and MPC is able to contain frequency transients in the shipboard power system within the permissible levels stipulated by the relevant power quality standards. These findings will help ship builders and operators to consider using battery energy storage systems controlled by advanced control techniques such as MPC to improve the power quality on board ships.
Recent Advances in Biomaterials for 3D Printing and Tissue Engineering
Authors: Jammalamadaka Udayabhanu , Tappa Karthik
Published: March 2018

Three-dimensional printing has significant potential as a fabrication method in creating scaffolds for tissue engineering. The applications of 3D printing in the field of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering are limited by the variety of biomaterials that can be used in this technology. Many researchers have developed novel biomaterials and compositions to enable their use in 3D printing methods. The advantages of fabricating scaffolds using 3D printing are numerous, including the ability to create complex geometries, porosities, co-culture of multiple cells, and incorporate growth factors. In this review, recently-developed biomaterials for different tissues are discussed. Biomaterials used in 3D printing are categorized into ceramics, polymers, and composites. Due to the nature of 3D printing methods, most of the ceramics are combined with polymers to enhance their printability. Polymer-based biomaterials are 3D printed mostly using extrusion-based printing and have a broader range of applications in regenerative medicine. The goal of tissue engineering is to fabricate functional and viable organs and, to achieve this, multiple biomaterials and fabrication methods need to be researched.
Macro and Micro Properties of Organic Matter in Hydraulic Mud Consolidation
Authors: Song Jing , Yang Yu-Shuang , Liu Zhi-Qing , Li Xue
Published: March 2018

Due to the co-existence of multiple organics and multiple length scales of the structure, quantitative characterization of the microstructure of organic matter in hydraulic mud consolidations, and understanding the impact on its mechanical properties have been challenging topics. This article attempts to tackle the challenge using lab experiments and a data-constrained modelling (DCM) approach combined with multi-energy synchrotron-based X-ray micro-CT (computed tomography). In this paper, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and other different technical means were combined to study the microstructure of hydraulic mud composition and distribution. One unmodified hydraulic mud and four remolded samples were analyzed in vacuum preloading tests corresponding to organic matter contents of 1.65%, 3.75%, 5.15%, 8.65%, and 11.15%, respectively. Organic matter plays a significant role in hindering the shear strength of consolidation. Macro- and microstructure under different pressures could be extracted by the DCM and X-ray CT. The DCM-reconstructed microstructure of fine-grained soil from hydraulic mud is presented by four groups: organic matter, two groups of minerals, and pores. Different groups are displayed with different colors, which could clarify the distributions and density degrees of each component (group). The macro- and microstructures and the distribution of organic matter were quantified and compared among groups. It was demonstrated that the mechanical properties of the organic matter were closely correlated to the meso- and nano-scale clusters of porosity and minerals. The variation of organic clusters with loading pressure, and the number of sub-macro organic clusters, were small. Three scales of organic cluster (40–400 μm, 4–40 μm, and 0.4–4 μm) changed visibly in consolidation at 200 kPa and 800 kPa. The analysis has shown that pressures of 100 kPa and 400 kPa could be used as two characteristic values of structure change of hydraulic mud, which perhaps matched the turning points of destruction. The DCM approach, combined with multi-energy synchrotron-based X-ray micro-CT presented here, are applicable in studying the relationship between the microstructure and macro-properties for various other engineering materials.
Babenko’s Approach to Abel’s Integral Equations
Authors: Li Chenkuan , Clarkson Kyle
Published: March 2018

The goal of this paper is to investigate the following Abel’s integral equation of the second kind: y ( t ) + λ Γ ( α ) ∫ 0 t ( t − τ ) α − 1 y ( τ ) d τ = f ( t ) , ( t > 0 ) and its variants by fractional calculus. Applying Babenko’s approach and fractional integrals, we provide a general method for solving Abel’s integral equation and others with a demonstration of different types of examples by showing convergence of series. In particular, we extend this equation to a distributional space for any arbitrary α ∈ R by fractional operations of generalized functions for the first time and obtain several new and interesting results that cannot be realized in the classical sense or by the Laplace transform.
An Adaptable Interface Conditioning Circuit Based on Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Self-Powered Sensors
Authors: Hu Yongshan , Yue Qiuqin , Lu Shan , Yang Dongchen , Shi Shuxin , Zhang Xiaokun , Yu Hua
Published: March 2018

In order to solve the limited life problem of typical battery power supply, a self-powered method that is based on the environmental energy harvesting has emerged as an amazing power supply approach. The Tribo-electric-Nano-generator (TENG) has been widely studied because of its high efficiency, low fabrication cost, and high output voltage. However, low output power conversion efficiency has restricted its practical application because of its own extremely high output impedance. In order to match the high output impedance of TENG and increase the output power, this paper presents an adaptable interface conditioning circuit, which is composed of an impedance matching circuit, a synchronous rectifier bridge, a control circuit, and an energy storage device. In the impedance matching circuit, the energy loss of coupling inductance could be reduced by using the bi-directional switch to increase the frequency, and impedance matching circuit can be used to increase the output efficiency of TENG. Experimental results show that, in about 3.6 s, the storing capacitor voltage was basically stable at 5.5 V by using the proposed adapted interface conditioning circuit in this paper. The charging efficiency has increased by 50%.
Density Functional Theory Study of Arsenate Adsorption onto Alumina Surfaces
Authors: Corum Katie , Abbaspour Tamijani Ali , Mason Sara
Published: March 2018

Atomistic modeling of mineral–water interfaces offers a way of confirming (or refuting) experimental information about structure and reactivity. Molecular-level understanding, such as orbital-based descriptions of bonding, can be developed from charge density and electronic structure analysis. First-principles calculations can be used to identify weaknesses in empirical models. This provides direction on how to propose more robust representations of systems of increasing size that accurately represent the underlying physical factors governing reactivity. In this study, inner-sphere complex geometries of arsenate on hydrated alumina surfaces are modeled at the density functional theory (DFT)–continuum solvent level. According to experimental studies, arsenate binds to alumina surfaces in a bidentate binuclear (BB) fashion. While the DFT calculations support the preference of the BB configuration, the optimized geometries show distortion from the ideal tetrahedral geometry of the arsenic atom. This finding suggests that steric factors, and not just coordination arguments, influences reactivity. The Osurf–As–Osurf angle for the more favorable arsenate configurations is closest to the ideal tetrahedral angle of 109.5°. Comparing the results of arsenate adsorption using a small cluster model with a periodic slab model, we report that the two model geometries yield results that differ qualitatively and quantitatively. This relates the steric factors and rigidity of the surface models.
Galacto-Oligosaccharide/Polidextrose Enriched Formula Protects against Respiratory Infections in Infants at High Risk of Atopy: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Ranucci Giusy , Buccigrossi Vittoria , Borgia Eleonora , Piacentini Daniela , Visentin Federica , Cantarutti Luigi , Baiardi Paola , Felisi Mariagrazia , Spagnuolo Maria , Zanconato Stefania , Baraldi Eugenio , Giaquinto Carlo , Guarino Alfredo
Published: March 2018

Background: Early nutrition affects the risk of atopy and infections through modifications of intestinal microbiota. The Prebiotics in the Prevention of Atopy (PIPA) study was a 24-month randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. It aimed to evaluate the effects of a galacto-oligosaccharide/polydextrose (GOS/PDX)-formula (PF) on atopic dermatitis (AD) and common infections in infants who were born to atopic parents and to investigate the relationship among early nutrition, gut microbiota and clinical outcomes. Methods: A total of 201 and 199 infants were randomized to receive a PF and standard formula (SF), respectively; 140 infants remained on exclusive breastfeeding (BF). Results: The cumulative incidence of AD and its intensity and duration were not statistically different among the three groups. The number of infants with at least one episode of respiratory infection (RI) and the mean number of episodes until 48 weeks of age were significantly lower in the PF group than in the SF group. The number of patients with recurrent RIs and incidence of wheezing lower RIs until 96 weeks were lower in the PF group than the SF group, but similar to the BF group. Bifidobacteria and Clostridium cluster I colonization increased over time in the PF group but decreased in the SF and BF groups. Bifidobacteria had a protective role in RIs, whereas Clostridium cluster I was associated with atopy protection. Conclusion: The early administration of PF protects against RIs and mediates a species-specific modulation of the intestinal microbiota. Trial registration: clinicaltrial.gov Identifier: NCT02116452.
Remote Sensing and Geo-Archaeological Data: Inland Water Studies for the Conservation of Underwater Cultural Heritage in the Ferrara District, Italy
Authors: Bucci Giovanna
Published: March 2018

In the southern area of the Ferrara District, Italy, remote sensing investigations associated with geo-archaeological drilling in underwater archaeological studies, have helped to broad our understanding of the historical evolution and cultural heritage of inland waterways. In working on prototype sites, we have taken a multidisciplinary approach of surveillance and preventive archaeology, and have collaborated with archaeologists, geologists, hydro-biologists, and engineers. In this area of research, often lakes, lagoons, and rivers are characterized by low visibility. Some Quaternary events have deeply modified Ferrara’s landscape. Analysis of preserved samples from micro-drillings, underwater direct and indirect surveys, and the cataloguing of historical artefacts, are giving to the researchers a remarkable ancient chronology line. Recent studies confirmed anthropization sequences from the 1st Century B.C. to the 6th Century A.D. Waterscape archaeology, a multidisciplinary science devoted to the study of the human use of wetlands and anthropological connection with the water environment, testifies the ways in which people, in the past, constructed and used the water environment. In this article, we describe underwater cultural heritage research using 3D side scan sonar surveys and artifacts analysis, comparing data from direct diving investigations and stratigraphic data from micro-geological drillings on sites of Lago Tramonto, Gambulaga, Portomaggiore (Ferrara).
The Holographic Principle: Typological Analysis Using Lower Dimensions
Authors: Merchant Nazarre , Krämer Martin
Published: March 2018

A moderately complex factorial typology may consist of hundreds of languages which can opaquely encode linguistically salient categories and generalizations. We propose in this paper that complex typologies can be decomposed and understood using what we call the holographic principle: a large typology can be projected onto simplified versions of itself which can be completely understood using Property Theory (Alber & Prince 2016). The simplified versions can then be re-incorporated into the original in such a way that the properties of the simple are maintained and provide a framework for analyzing the full system.In this paper, we demonstrate this using two systems, a basic stringency system (BSS), and a coda stringency system (CSS). We show how a complete analysis of BSS, using Property Theory, provides fundamental insights into the more complicated CSS which BSS is a simplification of. A property analysis is a set of properties that divide the languages of the typology in such a way that each language and its grammar can be identified uniquely by its property values. Such an analysis identifies the crucial rankings among constraints that distinguish all grammars of the typology so that languages that share property values share extensional traits.
Gradient and Categorical Effects in Native and Non-native Nasal-rhotic Coordination
Authors: Kochetov Alexei , Colantoni Laura , Steele Jeffrey
Published: March 2018

Languages are known to differ in their patterns of consonant-to-consonant coordination. Acquisition of a second language (L2) therefore involves learning these language-specific coordination patterns and the corresponding coarticulation and assimilation processes within and across words. This paper seeks to determine whether L2 learners of English acquire the target pattern of gradient assimilation of the nasal + rhotic sequence in English (e.g. in Rome). Electropalatographic data were obtained from nine learners of English (native speakers of French, Japanese, and Spanish) and three Canadian English controls. The results revealed that, although the learners had largely acquired the English rhotic articulation, most of them (Japanese and Spanish speakers, in particular) had not fully mastered the target C-C coordination patterns. This is consistent with findings of previous acoustic studies of L2 timing and coarticulation, highlighting the difficulty of acquiring gradient phonetic phenomena.
Being exceptional is being weak: Tonal exceptions in San Miguel el Grande Mixtec
Authors: Zimmermann Eva
Published: March 2018

The assumption of Gradient Symbolic Representations (Smolensky & Goldrick 2016; Rosen 2016) allows a unified account of lexical exceptions to phonological generalizations or processes. It states that phonological elements can have different degrees of presence in an underlying representation, expressed as numerical activities. In this paper, I strengthen the argument for Gradient Symbolic Representations and provide a case study of two seemingly unrelated exceptions in the tonal phonology of San Miguel el Grande Mixtec that receive a unified explanation under the assumption of gradient activity. In addition, I argue for a modification of the original Gradient Symbolic Representation assumption and propose the existence of gradient activity in the output. This assumption allows to predict markedness-driven exceptionality patterns that remain unexplained in the original proposal.
The Faint End of the z = 5 Quasar Luminosity Function from the CFHTLS
Authors: McGreer Ian D. , Fan Xiaohui , Jiang Linhua , Cai Zheng
Published: March 2018

We present results from a spectroscopic survey of z ∼ 5 quasars in the CFHT Legacy Survey. Using both optical color selection and a likelihood method, we select 97 candidates over an area of 105 deg2 to a limit of i
AB < 23.2, and 7 candidates in the range 23.2 < i
AB < 23.7 over an area of 18.5 deg2. Spectroscopic observations for 43 candidates were obtained with Gemini, MMT, and Large Binocular Telescope, of which 37 are z > 4 quasars. This sample extends measurements of the quasar luminosity function ∼1.5 mag fainter than our previous work in Sloan Digital Sky Survey Stripe 82. The resulting luminosity function is in good agreement with our previous results, and suggests that the faint end slope is not steep. We perform a detailed examination of our survey completeness, particularly the impact of the Lyα emission assumed in our quasar spectral models, and find hints that the observed Lyα emission from faint z ∼ 5 quasars is weaker than for z ∼ 3 quasars at a similar luminosity. Our results strongly disfavor a significant contribution of faint quasars to the hydrogen-ionizing background at z = 5.
Absolute Dimensions and Evolutionary Status of the Semi-detached Algol W Ursae Minoris
Authors: Park Jang-Ho , Hong Kyeongsoo , Koo Jae-Rim , Lee Jae Woo , Kim Chun-Hwey
Published: March 2018

Double-lined eclipsing binaries allow accurate and direct determination of fundamental parameters such as mass and radius for each component, and they provide important constraints on the stellar structure and evolution models. In this study, we aim to determine a unique set of binary parameters for the Algol system W UMi and to examine its evolutionary status. New high-resolution time-series spectroscopic observations were carried out during 14 nights from 2008 April to 2011 March, and a total of 37 spectra were obtained using the Bohyunsan Optical Echelle Spectrograph. We measured the radial velocities (RVs) for both components, and the effective temperature of the primary star was found to be T
eff,1 = 9310 ± 90 K by a comparison of the observed spectra and the Kurucz models. The physical parameters of W UMi were derived by an analysis of our RV data together with the multi-band light curves of Devinney et al. The individual masses, radii, and luminosities of both components are M
1 = 3.68 ± 0.10 M
⊙ and M
2 = 1.47 ± 0.04 M
⊙, R
1 = 3.88 ± 0.03 R
⊙ and R
2 = 3.13 ± 0.03 R
⊙, and L
1 = 102 ± 1 L
⊙ and L
2 = 7.3 ± 0.1 L
⊙, respectively. A comparison of these parameters with theoretical stellar models showed that the primary component lies in the main-sequence band, while the less massive secondary is noticeably evolved. The results indicate that the initially more massive star became the present secondary by losing most of its own mass via mass transfer to the companion (present primary).
The LABOCA/ACT Survey of Clusters at All Redshifts: Multiwavelength Analysis of Background Submillimeter Galaxies
Authors: Aguirre Paula , Lindner Robert R. , Baker Andrew J. , Bond J. Richard , Dünner Rolando , Galaz Gaspar , Gallardo Patricio , Hilton Matt , Hughes John P. , Infante Leopoldo , Lima Marcos , Menten Karl M. , Sievers Jonathan , Weiss Axel , Wollack Edward J.
Published: March 2018

We present a multiwavelength analysis of 48 submillimeter galaxies (SMGs) detected in the Large APEX Bolometer Camera/Atacama Cosmology Telescope (ACT) Survey of Clusters at All Redshifts, LASCAR, which acquired new 870 μm and Australia Telescope Compact Array 2.1 GHz observations of 10 galaxy clusters detected through their Sunyaev–Zel’dovich effect (SZE) signal by the ACT. Far-infrared observations were also conducted with the Photodetector Array Camera and Spectrometer (100/160 μm) and SPIRE (250/350/500 μm) instruments on Herschel for sample subsets of five and six clusters. LASCAR 870 μm maps were reduced using a multiscale iterative pipeline that removes the SZE increment signal, yielding point-source sensitivities of σ ∼ 2 mJy beam−1. We detect in total 49 sources at the 4σ level and conduct a detailed multiwavelength analysis considering our new radio and far-IR observations plus existing near-IR and optical data. One source is identified as a foreground galaxy, 28 SMGs are matched to single radio sources, four have double radio counterparts, and 16 are undetected at 2.1 GHz but tentatively associated in some cases to near-IR/optical sources. We estimate photometric redshifts for 34 sources with secure (25) and tentative (9) matches at different wavelengths, obtaining a median

. Compared to previous results for single-dish surveys, our redshift distribution has a comparatively larger fraction of sources at z > 3, and the high-redshift tail is more extended. This is consistent with millimeter spectroscopic confirmation of a growing number of high-z SMGs and relevant for testing of cosmological models. Analytical lens modeling is applied to estimate magnification factors for 42 SMGs at clustercentric radii >1.′2; with the demagnified flux densities and source-plane areas, we obtain integral number counts that agree with previous submillimeter surveys.
New Constraints on the Geometry and Kinematics of Matter Surrounding the Accretion Flow in X-Ray Binaries from Chandra High-energy Transmission Grating X-Ray Spectroscopy
Authors: Tzanavaris P. , Yaqoob T.
Published: March 2018

The narrow, neutral Fe Kα fluorescence emission line in X-ray binaries (XRBs) is a powerful probe of the geometry, kinematics, and Fe abundance of matter around the accretion flow. In a recent study it has been claimed, using Chandra High-Energy Transmission Grating (HETG) spectra for a sample of XRBs, that the circumnuclear material is consistent with a solar-abundance, uniform, spherical distribution. It was also claimed that the Fe Kα line was unresolved in all cases by the HETG. However, these conclusions were based on ad hoc models that did not attempt to relate the global column density to the Fe Kα line emission. We revisit the sample and test a self-consistent model of a uniform, spherical X-ray reprocessor against HETG spectra from 56 observations of 14 Galactic XRBs. We find that the model is ruled out in 13/14 sources because a variable Fe abundance is required. In two sources a spherical distribution is viable, but with nonsolar Fe abundance. We also applied a solar-abundance Compton-thick reflection model, which can account for the spectra that are inconsistent with a spherical model, but spectra with a broader bandpass are required to better constrain model parameters. We also robustly measured the velocity width of the Fe Kα line and found FWHM values of up to ∼5000 km s−1. Only in some spectra was the Fe Kα line unresolved by the HETG.
Formation of the First Star Clusters and Massive Star Binaries by Fragmentation of Filamentary Primordial Gas Clouds
Authors: Hirano Shingo , Yoshida Naoki , Sakurai Yuya , Fujii Michiko S.
Published: March 2018

We perform a set of cosmological simulations of early structure formation incorporating baryonic streaming motions. We present a case where a significantly elongated gas cloud with ∼104 solar mass (M
⊙) is formed in a pre-galactic (∼107
M
⊙) dark halo. The gas streaming into the halo compresses and heats the massive filamentary cloud to a temperature of ∼10,000 Kelvin. The gas cloud cools rapidly by atomic hydrogen cooling, and then by molecular hydrogen cooling down to ∼400 Kelvin. The rapid decrease of the temperature and hence of the Jeans mass triggers fragmentation of the filament to yield multiple gas clumps with a few hundred solar masses. We estimate the mass of the primordial star formed in each fragment by adopting an analytic model based on a large set of radiation hydrodynamics simulations of protostellar evolution. The resulting stellar masses are in the range of ∼50–120 M
⊙. The massive stars gravitationally attract each other and form a compact star cluster. We follow the dynamics of the star cluster using a hybrid N-body simulation. We show that massive star binaries are formed in a few million years through multi-body interactions at the cluster center. The eventual formation of the remnant black holes will leave a massive black hole binary, which can be a progenitor of strong gravitational wave sources similar to those recently detected by the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO).
Element Abundance Ratios in the Quiet Sun Transition Region
Authors: Young P. R.
Published: March 2018

Element abundance ratios of magnesium to neon (Mg/Ne) and neon to oxygen (Ne/O) in the transition region of the quiet Sun have been derived by re-assessing previously published data from the Coronal Diagnostic Spectrometer on board the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory in the light of new atomic data. The quiet Sun Mg/Ne ratio is important for assessing the effect of magnetic activity on the mechanism of the first ionization potential (FIP) effect, while the Ne/O ratio can be used to infer the solar photospheric abundance of neon, which cannot be measured directly. The average Mg/Ne ratio is found to be 0.52 ± 0.11, which applies over the temperature region 0.2–0.7 MK, and is consistent with the earlier study. The Ne/O ratio is, however, about 40% larger, taking the value 0.24 ± 0.05 that applies to the temperature range 0.08–0.40 MK. The increase is mostly due to changes in ionization and recombination rates that affect the equilibrium ionization balance. If the Ne/O ratio is interpreted as reflecting the photospheric ratio, then the photospheric neon abundance is 8.08 ± 0.09 or 8.15 ± 0.10 (on a logarithmic scale for which hydrogen is 12), according to whether the oxygen abundances of M. Asplund et al. or E. Caffau et al. are used. The updated photospheric neon abundance implies a Mg/Ne FIP bias for the quiet Sun of 1.6 ± 0.6.
The Manú Gradient as a study system for bird pollination
Authors: Boehm Mannfred , Scholer Micah , Kennedy Jeremiah , Heavyside Julian , Daza Aniceto , Guevara-Apaza David , Jankowski Jill
Published: March 2018

This study establishes an altiudinal gradient, spanning from the highland Andes (2400 m) to lowland Amazon, as a productive region for the study of bird pollination in Southeastern Peru. The 'Manú Gradient' has a rich history of ornithological research, the published data and resources from which lay the groundwork for analyses of plant-bird interactions. In this preliminary expedition we documented 44 plants exhibting aspects of the bird pollination syndrome, and made field observations of hummingbird visits at three sites spanning the Manú Gradient: 2800 m (Wayqecha), 1400 m (San Pedro), and 400 m (Pantiacolla). Some of the documented plant taxa are underrepresented in the bird pollination literature and could be promising avenues for future analyses of their pollination biology. The Manú Gradient is currently the focus of a concerted, international effort to describe and study the birds in the region; we propose that this region of Southeastern Peru is a productive and perhaps underestimated system to gain insight into the ecology and evolution of bird pollination.

Observations were made on 11, 19, and 14 putatively bird pollinated plant species found at the high-, mid- and low-elevation sites along the gradient, respectively. Hummingbirds visited 18 of these plant species, with some plant species being visited by multiple hummingbird species or the same hummingbird species on differing occasions. Morphometric data is presented for putatively bird-pollinated plants, along with bill measurements from hummingbirds captured at each of three sites. Voucher specimens from this study are deposited in the herbaria of the Universidad Nacional de Agraria de La Molina (MOL), Peru and the University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada. The specimens collected represent a ‘snapshot’ of the diversity of bird-pollinated flora as observed over 10 day sampling windows (per site) during the breeding season for hummingbirds of Manú .
Roméo et Juliette à la marge
Authors: Dubois-Fabing Delphine
Published: March 2018

A la demande de l’Office Départemental de la Personne en Situation de Handicap de l’Isère (ODPHI), la Compagnie du Savon Noir conduit depuis 2014 des créations théâtrales sur le thème de la vie affective et sexuelle de personnes en situation de handicap. Comment parler librement de ce thème tout en respectant les personnes, leur liberté de pensée, leur intégrité ? Comment aborder des questions aussi ardues que celle du viol, dont sont victimes de nombreuses personnes en situation de handicap ? Pour ce faire, notre action veille à la protection des personnes, elle s’appuie sur la mise en jeu des corps, des émotions, une réflexion propice à la distanciation et une action concrète de transmission.
Sexualité des personnes déficientes intellectuelles
Authors: Vaginay Denis
Published: March 2018

Qui contesterait aujourd’hui le droit aux personnes en situation de handicap d’accéder aux pratiques de la sexualité ? Nul ne s’y risquerait sans doute, conscient d’enfreindre alors le principe qui guide le droit et l’éthique, celui de la non-discrimination, lequel affirme que chacun bénéficie pleinement du droit commun. De fait, nos sociétés ont changé sur ce point, en inversant leur position. Naguère encore, elles considéraient normal et licite d’interdire tout accès à la sexualité aux personnes qu’elles jugeaient différentes, sans pour autant argumenter cette restriction consensuelle. Tout simplement parce que, imaginer un rapport sexuel entre personnes handicapées redoublait leur monstruosité du fait de leur faible humanité supposée, confondue avec une bestialité sauvage, en redoutant l’engeance fatalement douteuse qui en résulterait. De plus, elles ne paraissaient pas des partenaires enviables parce qu’elles auraient dévalorisé ceux qui les désiraient. Elles se trouvaient donc en même temps laissées pour compte et exclues. Ce qui n’empêchait pas que, à l’occasion, elles servent d’objet sexuel à leur entourage qui trouvait auprès d’elles un expédient à leurs besoins ou à leur frustration. Mais cela se passait dans le plus épais secret et restait confiné dans l’espace familial. La cause étant, semble-t-il, définitivement entendue.
Functional Outcomes and Predictors of Failure After Rotator Cuff Repair During Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Livesey Michael , Horneff John G. , Sholder Daniel , Lazarus Mark , Williams Gerald , Namdari Surena
Published: March 2018

A well-functioning rotator cuff is necessary for successful anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA). This study evaluated patients who underwent concomitant TSA and rotator cuff repair (RCR) for functional outcomes, revision rates, and predictors of poor results. Retrospective chart review was conducted to identify patients who underwent TSA and RCR. Demographic data, rotator cuff tear and RCR characteristics, range of motion, and radiographs were recorded. Minimum 2-year functional outcomes were obtained. Predictors of reoperation and/or poor clinical results were determined. Forty-five patients met inclusion criteria (22 high-grade partial-thickness and 23 full-thickness tears). Fourteen (31%) patients were labeled as having a poor result; 8 (18%) patients required reoperation. There was a significant difference between the acromiohumeral interval preoperatively and immediately postoperatively (
P
=.013). However, at maximum radiographic follow-up, the acromiohumeral interval was not significantly different from preoperative values (
P
=.86). Patients with a preoperative acromiohumeral interval of less than 8 mm had an increased rate of cuff-related reoperation (
P
=.003). Although concomitant TSA and RCR is a reasonable consideration, 31% of patients had a poor clinical result. An acromiohumeral interval of less than 8 mm was a predictor of cuff-related reoperation and may be an indication to consider reverse arthroplasty in the setting of joint arthrosis with a rotator cuff tear. [
Orthopedics.
2018; 41(3):e334–e339.]
Degradation of Cylindrical Poly-Lactic Co-Glycolide/Beta-Tricalcium Phosphate Biocomposite Anchors After Arthroscopic Bankart Repair: A Prospective Study
Authors: Matsuki Keisuke , Sugaya Hiroyuki , Takahashi Norimasa , Kawasaki Takayuki , Yoshimura Hideya , Kenmoku Tomonori
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine widening and ossification of anchor holes after arthroscopic Bankart repair with the use of cylindrical biocomposite anchors made of 70% poly-L-lactide-co-glycolide acid (PLGA) and 30% beta-tricalcium phosphate (ß-TCP). Twenty-two patients were enrolled in a clinical trial to acquire marketing approval of a PLGA/ß-TCP biocomposite suture anchor in Japan and underwent arthroscopic Bankart repairs with the anchors. Eleven of 22 patients had computed tomography scans after 2-year follow-up. Three surgeons independently evaluated width and ossification of anchor holes in 4 grades using computed tomography scans. When the evaluations disagreed, the final grade was determined based on the 3 surgeons' consensus. Seven men and 4 women were evaluated at a mean of 30 months (range, 28-32 months) after surgery, and a total of 47 anchors were implanted. Anchor holes were narrowed in 39 (83%) of 47 anchor sites and were almost or completely filled in (type 3 or 4) in 21 (45%) of 47 anchor sites. Ossification was seen in 46 (98%) of 47 anchor sites and was nearly complete or complete (type 3 or 4) in 16 (34%) of 47 anchor sites. There were no significant differences in both anchor hole width and ossification score on comparison of the anteroinferior (4- to 6-o'clock positions in the right shoulder) with other anchor sites. Cylindrical biocomposite anchors made of 70% PLGA/30% ß-TCP showed a low incidence of anchor hole widening and excellent ossification regardless of anchor site. [
Orthopedics.
2018; 41(3):e348–e353.]
The Science Behind Support
Authors: Apugo Danielle L. , Wendt Jillian L. , Deksissa Tolessa , Peters Maria
Published: March 2018

This chapter explores the graduate Secondary Science Teacher Preparation Program (TPP) at the University of the District of Columbia (UDC). The program addresses several critical needs in urban education and science teacher preparation using a combination of approaches that, when considered in light of one teacher candidate's experiences, serve to meet documented deficits among current TPP frameworks. The experiences of one teacher candidate are described and analyzed in light of the research literature, specific aspects of the UDC TPP that are assisting in filling existing deficits and supporting underrepresented minorities in science teacher education are discussed, and needs for future consideration, research, and program implementation are presented.
New Media and Its Role in Stabilizing Nepal
Authors: Bhattarai Umesh K.
Published: March 2018

Most scholars advocate that the people are seeking identity, and for this purpose, they are reinventing ethnicity to establish their ideology. So, they need opponents and create enmities. Among the civilizations, the sectorial powers that represent common ideology within the geography provoke extremism, and through religious and cultural pundits, the extremists are radicalized to disturb the entire world through terrorism.
Role of E-Diplomacy in Maintaining India's Diplomatic Relations and in Shaping Foreign Policy With South Asian Countries and With International Community
Authors: Bute Swati Jaywant Rao
Published: March 2018

In a globalized world when countries are working together in different areas such as economic, political, geopolitical, defense, security, and science and technology, media plays an important role in keeping them updated about the actual and ground level realities about different countries. This chapter examines how new media is important in international relations and diplomatic affairs, what role new media is playing in international relations, India's relations with South Asian countries and role of media diplomacy, India's relations with international community and role of e-diplomacy, people's participation in discussion and dialogue in international relations and its impact in diplomatic policies, relation between people's participation and deciding policies and national level, increasing role of new media and changing practice of international diplomacy, and foreign policy adopted by governments.
Role of E-Diplomacy at the Time of International Crisis and Evacuation of Indians
Authors: Bute Swati Jaywant Rao
Published: March 2018

The digital media has made communication between state and citizens very easy, removing all limitations and barriers between the government, service providers, and citizens. This new age media's omnipresence gets diverse attention generating multiple responses. Each era appears to have its own set of ritualized phrases that enable diplomatic agents to communicate even unpleasant things with an amount of tact and courtesy. This chapter explores e-diplomacy.
Social Media Networking and the Future of Public Diplomacy in Black Africa
Authors: Endong Floribert Patrick C.
Published: March 2018

In spite of its global nature, digital diplomacy has mostly attracted the attention of Euro-centric scholars. Most studies on the issue have dominantly focused on the activities of western MFAs giving little or no attention to those of their African counterparts. This chapter attempts to fill this apparent gap in knowledge. Based on empirical understandings and secondary data, it critically examines how, and to what extent the digital technology paradigm has affected—or may affect—the conduct of public diplomacy particularly in Black African countries. The chapter is divided into four main sections. The first section provides a theoretical framework composed of the actors network theory and the digital divide theory. The second section provides a definition of e-diplomacy and traces its history. The third section examines African countries' progressive “appropriation” of this culture, and the fourth section highlights the prospects of e-diplomacy in Africa as well as major challenges faced by African countries in their deployment of digital diplomacy.
Towards an Intelligent Biomedical Engineering With Nature-Inspired Artificial Intelligence Techniques
Authors: Kose Utku
Published: March 2018

Artificial intelligence has a remarkable effect on many different fields with its flexible and comprehensive solution approaches to solve real-world problems. In this context, the field of biomedical engineering has also been affected by employment of different artificial intelligence-based techniques. This chapter aims to give a theoretical discussion on using nature-inspired artificial intelligent techniques for obtaining intelligent applications within biomedical engineering. As it is known, techniques within the field of artificial intelligence are inspired from nature. So, it is a good approach to focus on nature-inspired techniques for discussing intelligent biomedical engineering research works. Readers will have a chance to understand some ways of using artificial intelligence for achieving better results in biomedical engineering and the related developments associated with this field.
Internet of Things and Nature-Inspired Intelligent Techniques for the Future of Biomedical Engineering
Authors: Guraksin Gur Emre
Published: March 2018

Along with the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), there are many different research fields gaining importance. Because of the growing amount of data and needs for immediate access to information for dealing with the problems, different types of research fields take place within the scientific community. Internet of things (IoT) is one of them, and it enables devices to communicate with each other in order to form a general network of physical, working devices. The objective of this chapter in this manner is to provide a general discussion of using nature-inspired techniques of AI to form the future of biomedical engineering over IoT. Because it is often thought that the medical services of the future will be based on autonomous machines supported with AI and IoT, discussing such a topic by considering biomedical engineering applications will be good for the related literature.
Intelligent Biomedical Engineering Operations by Cloud Computing Technologies
Authors: Armutlu Hasan
Published: March 2018

Cloud computing is an effective way of using hardware- and software-oriented resources at optimum levels. Thanks to this technology, it is possible to share large amounts of resources effectively and accurately among target users. Because it is a rapidly growing technology, one cannot deny that it has remarkable relations with alternative research fields having great potential and application scope. It is clear that artificial intelligence is one of these fields. As associated with both these research fields, the purpose of this chapter is to examine artificial-intelligence-based biomedical engineering works supported/connected with cloud computing. Because it has a vital importance with applications regarding the medical/health problems, biomedical engineering needs support from the most recent technologies and research fields in this manner. So, the chapter provides a view over the intersection of these three research fields as trying to improve awareness among interested readers.