bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Importance of Tax Adjustments When Evaluating Wage Expectations*
Authors: Klößner Stefan , Pfeifer Gregor
Published: February 2018

Using elicited expectations of future gross salaries, we evaluate characteristics causing German students to make larger or smaller estimation errors. While students seem to underestimate actual salaries by 18 percent, we show that these errors are highly attributable to misconceptions of the progressive income tax. Developing a suitable adjustment procedure, we correct students’ estimates and find that errors decline by 12 percentage points. Conducting regression analyses, we reveal strong connections with students’ age, gender, work experience, secondary school track, and knowledge about student loans. These results change notably if not controlling for students’ misconceptions of the tax system.
An Assessment of Ethical Sensitivity of Professional Accountants in Nigeria
Authors: Atoyebi Taibat A. , Mustafa Murtala A. O. , Mobolaji Moruf A.
Published: February 2018

This study assessed the ethical sensitivity of Professional accountants in Nigeria with particular reference to members of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN). Professional Commitment, Organizational Commitment, Idealistic and Relativist ethical orientations and their effects on ethical sensitivity of the professional accountants were examined. The descriptive research design was adopted while data were collected through the Accountants’ Ethical Sensitivity Scale Questionnaire (AESS) questionnaire administered to 250 professional accountants. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to analyse the collected data. The results revealed that there exists an insignificant negative relationship between professional commitment and professional accountants’ ethical sensitivity while idealistic ethical orientation has a significant negative relationship with professional accountants’ ethical sensitivity. However, relativist ethical orientations and organizational commitment have a significant positive effect on professional accountants’ ethical sensitivity.
Description of a new Aculus species (Trombidiformes: Eriophyidae) associated with Leguminosae plants from Iran and remarks on conspecific species known worldwide
Authors: Lotfollahi Parisa , Tajaddod Sadegh , Heydari Rikan Mahnaz
Published: February 2018

During a study on the plant samples of Trifolium pratense L. (Leguminosae) collected in Iranian historical village, Kandovan of Osku region, Aculus haddadi Lotfollahi & Tajaddod sp. nov. was identified as a vagrant species and herein described and illustrated. In addition, a key to the known Aculus mite species collected on Leguminosae plants worldwide and information about their type host, type locality and habitus and figures of their prodorsal shield patterns are provided.
High resolution imaging and 3D analysis of Ag nanoparticles in cells with ToF-SIMS and delayed extraction
Authors: Henss Anja , Otto Svenja-K. , Schaepe Kaija , Pauksch Linda , Lips Katrin S. , Rohnke Marcus
Published: February 2018

Within this study, the authors use human mesenchymal stem cells incubated with silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) as a model system to systematically investigate the advantages and drawbacks of the fast imaging delayed extraction mode for two-dimensional and three-dimensional (3D) analyses at the cellular level. The authors compare the delayed extraction mode with commonly employed measurement modes in terms of mass and lateral resolution, intensity, and dose density. Using the delayed extraction mode for single cell analysis, a high mass resolution up to 4000 at m/z = 184.08 combined with a lateral resolution up to 360 nm is achieved. Furthermore, the authors perform 3D analyses with Ar-clusters (10 keV) and O2+ (500 eV) as sputter species, combined with Bi3+ and delayed extraction for analysis. Cell compartments like the nucleus are visualized in 3D, whereas no realistic 3D reconstruction of intracellular AgNP is possible due to the different sputter rates of inorganic and organic cell materials. Furthermore, the authors show that the sputter yield of Ag increases with the decreasing Ar-cluster size, which might be an approach to converge the different sputter rates.
Autoregulation of von Willebrand factor function by a disulfide bond switch
Authors: Butera Diego , Passam Freda , Ju Lining , Cook Kristina M. , Woon Heng , Aponte-Santamaría Camilo , Gardiner Elizabeth , Davis Amanda K. , Murphy Deirdre A. , Bronowska Agnieszka , Luken Brenda M. , Baldauf Carsten , Jackson Shaun , Andrews Robert , Gräter Frauke , Hogg Philip J.
Published: March 2018

We demonstrate mechanochemical regulation of platelet adhesion to von Willebrand factor in thrombosis and hemostasis.
Nature's strategies: A plant that stands and fights
Authors: Pennisi Elizabeth
Published: March 2018

The wild tobacco plant sounds off when it's under attack.
Evolution's amazing arms race
Strange Survivors: How Organisms Attack and Defend in the Game of Life
Oné R. Pagán
BenBella Books, 2018. 240 pp.
Authors: Kemp Christopher
Published: March 2018

A friendly tour of unusual animal adaptations misses many highlights
Engineering a designer immunotherapy
Authors: Mackall Crystal L.
Published: March 2018

Tailoring cytokine selectivity by engineering receptor-ligand pairs circumvents toxicity
Rapid detection of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
in sputum with a solvatochromic trehalose probe
Authors: Kamariza Mireille , Shieh Peyton , Ealand Christopher S. , Peters Julian S. , Chu Brian , Rodriguez-Rivera Frances P. , Babu Sait Mohammed R. , Treuren William V. , Martinson Neil , Kalscheuer Rainer , Kana Bavesh D. , Bertozzi Carolyn R.
Published: February 2018

A solvatochromic trehalose dye conjugate allows the fast and specific detection of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
in sputum samples.
Mechanical circulatory support device-heart hysteretic interaction can predict left ventricular end diastolic pressure
Authors: Chang Brian Y. , Keller Steven P. , Bhavsar Sonya S. , Josephy Noam , Edelman Elazer R.
Published: February 2018

Variations in the driving motor current of a percutaneous ventricular assist device can be used to predict left ventricular end diastolic pressure.
HIV latency in isolated patient CD4
+
T cells may be due to blocks in HIV transcriptional elongation, completion, and splicing
Authors: Yukl Steven A. , Kaiser Philipp , Kim Peggy , Telwatte Sushama , Joshi Sunil K. , Vu Mai , Lampiris Harry , Wong Joseph K.
Published: February 2018

HIV latency may not be governed by a lack of transcriptional initiation, but rather by blocks to RNA elongation, polyadenylation, and splicing.
Tumor-hunting nanorobots
Authors: Shen Keyue
Published: February 2018

A DNA nanorobot kills tumors by blocking the blood supply.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Piperacillin in Sepsis Patients: Should Alternative Dosing Strategies Be Considered?
Authors: Andersen Maria Goul , Thorsted Anders , Storgaard Merete , Kristoffersson Anders N. , Friberg Lena E. , Öbrink-Hansen Kristina
Published: February 2018

Sufficient antibiotic dosing in septic patients is essential for reducing mortality. Piperacillin-tazobactam is often used for empirical treatment, but due to the pharmacokinetic (PK) variability seen in septic patients, optimal dosing may be a challenge. We determined the PK profile for piperacillin given at 4 g every 8 h in 22 septic patients admitted to a medical ward. Piperacillin concentrations were compared to the clinical breakpoint MIC for
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
(16 mg/liter), and the following PK/pharmacodynamic (PD) targets were evaluated: the percentage of the dosing interval that the free drug concentration is maintained above the MIC (
fT
MIC
) of 50% and 100%. A two-compartment population PK model described the data well, with clearance being divided into renal and nonrenal components. The renal component was proportional to the estimated creatinine clearance (eCL
CR
) and constituted 74% of the total clearance in a typical individual (eCL
CR
, 83.9 ml/min). Patients with a high eCL
CR
(>130 ml/min) were at risk of subtherapeutic concentrations for the current regimen, with a 90% probability of target attainment being reached at MICs of 2.0 (50%
fT
MIC
) and 0.125 mg/liter (100%
fT
MIC
). Simulations of alternative dosing regimens and modes of administration showed that dose increment and prolonged infusion increased the chance of achieving predefined PK/PD targets. Alternative dosing strategies may therefore be needed to optimize piperacillin exposure in septic patients. (This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov under identifier NCT02569086.)
Complete Genome Sequence of a New Zealand Isolate of the Bovine Pathogen Streptococcus uberis
Authors: Taiaroa George , Harbison-Price Nichaela , Ferguson Scott A. , Carter Glen P. , Williamson Deborah A. , Macknight Richard C. , Cook Gregory M. , Heikal Adam
Published: February 2018

Streptococcus uberis
forms part of the native microbiota of cattle and is able to opportunistically infect the mammary gland; as such, it is a leading cause of bovine mastitis globally. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of
S. uberis
NZ01, isolated in New Zealand from a cow with a clinical case of bovine mastitis.
Complete Genome Sequence of a Circulating Hepatitis B Virus Genotype C Strain Isolated from a Chronically Infected Patient Identified at an Outdoor Hospital in Bangladesh
Authors: Shaha Modhusudon , Das Keshob Chandra , Hossain M. Saddam , Jahan Munira , Hashem Abu , Rahman Sabita Rezwana , Salimullah M.
Published: February 2018

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) causes significant global health problems despite the presence of a potential vaccine. HBV chronic cases are increasing rapidly in developing countries like Bangladesh. Here, we report the complete genome sequence of an HBV genotype C strain isolated from a chronic patient identified at an outdoor hospital section.
Annexin A2 Mediates the Localization of Measles Virus Matrix Protein at the Plasma Membrane
Authors: Koga Ritsuko , Kubota Marie , Hashiguchi Takao , Yanagi Yusuke , Ohno Shinji
Published: March 2018

Annexins are a family of structurally related proteins that bind negatively charged membrane phospholipids in a Ca
2+
-dependent manner. Annexin A2 (AnxA2), a member of this family, has been implicated in a variety of cellular functions, including the organization of membrane domains, vesicular trafficking, and cell-cell adhesion. AnxA2 generally forms a heterotetrameric complex with a small Ca
2+
-binding protein, S100A10. Measles virus (MV), a member of the family
Paramyxoviridae
, is an enveloped virus with a nonsegmented negative-strand RNA genome. Knockdown of AnxA2 greatly reduced MV growth in cells without affecting its entry and viral RNA production. In MV-infected, AnxA2 knockdown cells, the expression level of the matrix (M) protein, but not other viral proteins, was reduced compared with that in control cells, and the distribution of the M protein at the plasma membrane was decreased. The M protein lines the inner surface of the envelope and plays an important role in virus assembly by connecting the nucleocapsid to the envelope proteins. The M protein bound to AnxA2 independently of AnxA2's phosphorylation or its association with S100A10 and was colocalized with AnxA2 within cells. Truncation of the N-terminal 10 amino acid residues, but not the N-terminal 5 residues, compromised the ability of the M protein to interact with AnxA2 and localize at the plasma membrane. These results indicate that AnxA2 mediates the localization of the MV M protein at the plasma membrane by interacting with its N-terminal region (especially residues at positions 6 to 10), thereby aiding in MV assembly.

IMPORTANCE
MV is an important human pathogen, still claiming ∼100,000 lives per year despite the presence of effective vaccines, and it causes occasional outbreaks even in developed countries. Replication of viruses largely relies on the functions of host cells. Our study revealed that the reduction of the host protein annexin A2 compromises the replication of MV within the cell. Further studies demonstrated that annexin A2 interacts with the MV M protein and mediates the localization of the M protein at the plasma membrane where MV particles are formed. The M protein lines the inner surface of the MV envelope membrane and plays a role in MV particle formation. Our results provide useful information for the understanding of the MV replication process and potential development of antiviral agents.
Systematic review of clinical practice guidelines to identify recommendations for rehabilitation after stroke and other acquired brain injuries
Authors: Jolliffe Laura , Lannin Natasha A , Cadilhac Dominique A , Hoffmann Tammy
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Rehabilitation clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) contain recommendation statements aimed at optimising care for adults with stroke and other brain injury. The aim of this study was to determine the quality, scope and consistency of CPG recommendations for rehabilitation covering the acquired brain injury populations.

Design

Systematic review.

Interventions

Included CPGs contained recommendations for inpatient rehabilitation or community rehabilitation for adults with an acquired brain injury diagnosis (stroke, traumatic or other non-progressive acquired brain impairments). Electronic databases (n=2), guideline organisations (n=4) and websites of professional societies (n=17) were searched up to November 2017. Two independent reviewers used the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II instrument, and textual syntheses were used to appraise and compare recommendations.

Results

From 427 papers screened, 20 guidelines met the inclusion criteria. Only three guidelines were rated high (>75%) across all domains of AGREE-II; highest rated domains were ‘scope and purpose’ (85.1, SD 18.3) and ‘clarity’ (76.2%, SD 20.5). Recommendations for assessment and for motor therapies were most commonly reported, however, varied in the level of detail across guidelines.

Conclusion

Rehabilitation CPGs were consistent in scope, suggesting little difference in rehabilitation approaches between vascular and traumatic brain injury. There was, however, variability in included studies and methodological quality.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42016026936.
Exploiting science? A systematic analysis of complementary and alternative medicine clinic websites’ marketing of stem cell therapies
Authors: Murdoch Blake , Zarzeczny Amy , Caulfield Timothy
Published: February 2018

Objective

To identify the frequency and qualitative characteristics of stem cell-related marketing claims made on websites of clinics featuring common types of complementary and alternative medicine practitioners. The involvement of complementary and alternative medicine practitioners in the marketing of stem cell therapies and stem cell-related interventions is understudied. This research explores the extent to which they are involved and collaborate with medical professionals. This knowledge will help with identifying and evaluating potential policy responses to this growing market.

Design

Systematic website analysis.

Setting

Global. US and English-language bias due to methodology.

Main outcome measures

Representations made on clinic websites in relation to practitioner types, stem cell therapies and their targets, stem cell-related interventions. Statements about stem cell therapies relating to evidence of inefficacy, limited evidence of efficacy, general procedural risks, risks specific to the mode of therapy, regulatory status, experimental or unproven nature of therapy. Use of hype language (eg, language that exaggerates potential benefits).

Results

243 websites offered stem cell therapies. Many websites advertised stem cell transplantation from multiple sources, such as adipose-derived (112), bone marrow-derived (100), blood-derived (28), umbilical cord-derived (26) and others. Plant stem cell-based treatments and products (20) were also advertised. Purposes for and targets of treatment included pain, physical injury, a wide range of diseases and illnesses, cosmetic concerns, non-cosmetic ageing, sexual enhancement and others. Medical doctors (130), chiropractors (53) and naturopaths (44) commonly work in the clinics we found to be offering stem cell therapies. Few clinic websites advertising stem cell therapies included important additional information, including statements about evidence of inefficacy (present on only 12.76% of websites), statements about limited evidence of efficacy (18.93%), statements of general risks (24.69%), statements of risks specific to the mode(s) of therapy (5.76%), statements as to the regulatory status of the therapies (30.86%) and statements that the therapy is experimental or unproven (33.33%). Hype language was noted (31.69%).

Conclusions

Stem cell therapies and related interventions are marketed for a wide breadth of conditions and are being offered by complementary and alternative practitioners, often in conjunction with medical doctors. Consumer protection and truth-in-advertising regulation could play important roles in addressing misleading marketing practices in this area.
Effectiveness of postdischarge interventions for reducing the severity of chronic pain after total knee replacement: systematic review of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Wylde Vikki , Dennis Jane , Gooberman-Hill Rachael , Beswick Andrew David
Published: February 2018

Objective

Approximately 20% of patients experience chronic pain after total knee replacement (TKR). The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effectiveness of postdischarge interventions commenced in the first 3 months after surgery in reducing the severity of chronic pain after TKR.

Design

The protocol for this systematic review was registered on PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42017041382). MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and The Cochrane Library were searched from inception to November 2016. Randomised controlled trials of postdischarge intervention which commenced in the first 3 months after TKR surgery were included. The primary outcome of the review was self-reported pain severity at 12 months or longer after TKR. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool.

Results

Seventeen trials with data from 2485 randomised participants were included. The majority of trials evaluated physiotherapy interventions (n=13); other interventions included nurse-led interventions (n=2), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (n=1) and a multidisciplinary intervention (n=1). Opportunities for meta-analysis were limited by heterogeneity. No study found a difference in long-term pain severity between trial arms, with the exception of one trial which found home-based functional exercises aimed at managing kinesiophobia resulted in lower pain severity scores at 12 months postoperatively compared with advice to stay active.

Conclusion

This systematic review and narrative synthesis found no evidence that one type of physiotherapy intervention is more effective than another at reducing the severity of chronic pain after TKR. Further research is needed to evaluate non-physiotherapy interventions, including the provision of care as part of a stratified and multidisciplinary care package.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42017041382.
Ian Cunningham
Authors: McKelvey Bill , Maxwell Jeff
Published: March 2018

A gifted scientist and a natural leader, Ian Cunningham was one of Scotland's pre‐eminent biological scientists; he also directed and chaired a number of key research and educational organisations.
Shannon entropy and Fisher information of the one-dimensional Klein–Gordon oscillator with energy-dependent potential
Authors: Boumali Abdelmalek , Labidi Malika
Published: February 2018

In this paper, we studied, at first, the influence of the energy-dependent potentials on the one-dimensionless Klein–Gordon oscillator. Then, the Shannon entropy and Fisher information of this system are investigated. The position and momentum information entropies for the low-lying states n = 0, 1, 2 are calculated. Some interesting features of both Fisher and Shannon densities, as well as the probability densities, are demonstrated. Finally, the Stam, Cramer–Rao and Bialynicki–Birula–Mycielski (BBM) inequalities have been checked, and their comparison with the regarding results have been reported. We showed that the BBM inequality is still valid in the form [Formula: see text], as well as in ordinary quantum mechanics.
On the Number of Limit Cycles Bifurcated from a Near-Hamiltonian System with a Double Homoclinic Loop of Cuspidal Type Surrounded by a Heteroclinic Loop
Authors: Moghimi Pegah , Asheghi Rasoul , Kazemi Rasool
Published: March 2018

In this paper, we study the number of bifurcated limit cycles from some polynomial systems with a double homoclinic loop passing through a nilpotent saddle surrounded by a heteroclinic loop, and obtain some new results on the lower bound of the maximal number of limit cycles for these systems. In particular, we study the bifurcation of limit cycles in the following system: [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a polynomial of degree [Formula: see text].
Distortion of Dynamical Systems in the Context of Focusing the Chaos Around the Point
Authors: Pawlak Ryszard J.
Published: March 2018

In the paper, we examine local aspects of chaos for self-functions on topological manifolds. For this purpose, issues related to focal entropy points and homoclinic points are used. We consider also distortion of dynamical systems which is a theoretical analogue to wave interference.
Recurrence Density Enhanced Complex Networks for Nonlinear Time Series Analysis
Authors: Costa Diego G. de B. , Reis Barbara M. da F. , Zou Yong , Quiles Marcos G. , Macau Elbert E. N.
Published: March 2018

We introduce a new method, which is entitled Recurrence Density Enhanced Complex Network (RDE-CN), to properly analyze nonlinear time series. Our method first transforms a recurrence plot into a figure of a reduced number of points yet preserving the main and fundamental recurrence properties of the original plot. This resulting figure is then reinterpreted as a complex network, which is further characterized by network statistical measures. We illustrate the computational power of RDE-CN approach by time series by both the logistic map and experimental fluid flows, which show that our method distinguishes different dynamics sufficiently well as the traditional recurrence analysis. Therefore, the proposed methodology characterizes the recurrence matrix adequately, while using a reduced set of points from the original recurrence plots.
Role of antibiotic therapy in bacterial disease: A mathematical study
Authors: Roy Priti Kumar , Zhang Yanhui , Ghosh Priyanka , Pal Joydeep , Basir Fahad Al
Published: March 2018

Pathogenic bacteria in human system mature through the bio-synthesis of protective layer known as cell wall. This bacterial cell wall growth occurs in the presence of enzyme released by it. After maturation by the cell wall formation, pathogenic bacteria become harmful for human body as they are responsible for different diseases. Antibiotics or drugs are employed for curing bacterial diseases through the inhibition of this maturation process and it occurs by the binding progression of antibiotics with the released enzyme. But nowadays, drugs or antibiotics like [Formula: see text]-lactum family (Amoxcillin) which are generally used for inhibition of bio-synthesis of cell wall become ineffective due to evolution of antibiotic resistance by the bacteria. Antibiotic resistance occurs when an antibiotic has lost its ability to effectively control or kill bacterial growth. As a result, the bacteria becomes “resistant” and continue to multiply for the generation of robust pathogenic bacteria in spite of drug administration. This is due to the release of another type of enzyme by the resistant bacteria which binds with the active antibiotic or drug making it ineffective. Hence, another type of drug (Clauvanic acid) is combined to resist the activity of drug hydrolyzing enzyme so that the initial drug can act effectively. Hence a combination of drug therapy is applied to cure the bacterial diseases successfully. We developed a mathematical model based on the bacterial enzyme and bacterial cell wall proliferation mechanism and showed how we can reduce the bacterial infection in the resistant cases with application of combination drugs (Amoxcillin and Clauvanic acid) to restore normal health. Based on the enzymatic activity and individual drug dynamics we studied the overall system under the single drug and combinational drug administration through our formulated model analysis. We also demonstrated the different dosing time interval and dosing concentration to evaluate the optimized drug administration for arresting the cell wall formation completely. Sensitivity of the different kinetic rate constant also has been performed with subject to drug hydrolyzing enzyme. Our analytical and numerical studies also confirm the efficiency of the combinational drug treatment compared to single drug treatment being more effective in drug resistant cases providing recovery from bacterial disease.
Tribological Behavior and Corrosion Resistance of Electroless Ni-B-W Coatings
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Arkadeb , Barman Tapan Kumar , Sahoo Prasanta
Published: March 2018

The present study considers the tribological behavior and corrosion resistance of electroless Ni-B-W coatings deposited on AISI 1040 steel substrates. Coating is characterized using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray analysis and X-ray diffraction technique. In as-deposited condition, coatings are found to be amorphous. On heat treatment, precipitation of crystalline Ni (1 1 1) and its borides take place. For as-deposited coating, the microhardness is obtained as [Formula: see text]759[Formula: see text]HV[Formula: see text] which increases to [Formula: see text]1181[Formula: see text]HV[Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]1098[Formula: see text]HV[Formula: see text] when heat treated at 350[Formula: see text]C and 450[Formula: see text]C, respectively. Incorporation of W in Ni-B coating results in an increase of hardness by 89[Formula: see text]HV[Formula: see text] in as-deposited condition. Heat treatment also results in increase in crystallite size of Ni (1 1 1). Wear rate and coefficient of friction (COF) of the coatings are evaluated on a pin-on-disc setup under both dry and lubricated sliding conditions. Wear resistance is observed to improve on heat treatment with an increase in crystallite size while COF deteriorates. However, in as-deposited condition, wear rate and COF of Ni-B-W coatings improve by [Formula: see text]5 and [Formula: see text]3 times, respectively, compared with Ni-B coatings. Wear and friction performance of the coatings are enhanced under lubrication due to the columnar structure of the coatings that retain lubricants. Corrosion resistance of Ni-B-W coating in 3.5% NaCl solution gets improved on heat treatment.
IoT Platform for Sports Analytics
Authors: Gowda Mahanth , Dhekne Ashutosh , Shen Sheng , Choudhury Romit Roy , Yang Sharon Xue , Yang Lei , Golwalkar Suresh , Essanian Alexander
Published: March 2018

This paper is an experience report on IoT platforms for sports analytics. In our prior work [11], we proposed iBall, a system that explores the possibility of bringing IoT to sports analytics, particularly to the game of Cricket. iBall develops solutions to track a ball's 3D trajectory and spin with inexpensive sensors and radios embedded in the ball. Towards this end, iBall performs fusion of wireless and inertial sensory data and integrates them into physics-based motion models of a ball in flight. The median ball location error is at 8cm while rotational error remains below 12° even at the end of the flight. The results do not rely on training, hence we expect the core techniques to extend to other sports like baseball, with some domain-specific modifications.
An Autobiography of Ronald W. Rousseau
Authors: Rousseau Ronald W.
Published: March 2018

This article provides a synopsis of my professional career, from the decision to study chemical engineering to leadership of one of the top academic programs in that field. I describe how I chose to devote my research to phenomena associated with crystallization as practiced for separation and purification and then made the transition to leader of an academic program. Embedded in the coverage are descriptions of research advances coming from exploration of secondary nucleation, especially how collisions of crystals in supersaturated environments dominate the behavior of industrially relevant crystallization processes. I recount some of the challenges associated with becoming a school chair and how the program I led grew. The story illuminates the contributions of my many mentors, colleagues, and students.
Collective Rights–Based Fishery Management: A Path to Ecosystem-Based Fishery Management
Authors: Holland Daniel S.
Published: February 2018

Fishery rents may be dissipated across margins not well defined or controlled by an individual transferable quota system. Collective rights–based fishery management (CRBFM), where catch rights are held by a group, can sometimes generate greater benefits and can also address external impacts of the fishery. I discuss potential failures of individual quotas and how these problems were addressed by CRBFM institutions. I then focus on the role of CRBFM in addressing environmental and social impacts external to the group of fishers, such as bycatch, habitat impacts, and spatial conflicts. The review suggests that CRBFM can effectively address both intrafishery and external impacts, provided there is sufficient incentive to do so, including maintaining access to preferred markets or the threat of further regulation. However, CRBFM can create moral hazard and adverse selection problems, and successful CRBFM institutions generally have homogeneous membership with well-aligned interests and/or formal contracts with monitoring and enforcement provisions.
A Data-Driven Modeling Strategy for Smart Grid Power Quality Coupling Assessment Based on Time Series Pattern Matching
Authors: Yu Hao , Jia Qingquan , Wang Ning , Dong Haiyan
Published: March 2018

This study introduces a data-driven modeling strategy for smart grid power quality (PQ) coupling assessment based on time series pattern matching to quantify the influence of single and integrated disturbance among nodes in different pollution patterns. Periodic and random PQ patterns are constructed by using multidimensional frequency-domain decomposition for all disturbances. A multidimensional piecewise linear representation based on local extreme points is proposed to extract the patterns features of single and integrated disturbance in consideration of disturbance variation trend and severity. A feature distance of pattern (FDP) is developed to implement pattern matching on univariate PQ time series (UPQTS) and multivariate PQ time series (MPQTS) to quantify the influence of single and integrated disturbance among nodes in the pollution patterns. Case studies on a 14-bus distribution system are performed and analyzed; the accuracy and applicability of the FDP in the smart grid PQ coupling assessment are verified by comparing with other time series pattern matching methods.
Pressure Waves due to Rapid Evaporation of Water Droplet in Liquid Lead Coolant
Authors: Yakush S. E. , Iskhakov A. S. , Melikhov V. I. , Melikhov O. I.
Published: March 2018

Flash evaporation of a superheated water droplet in heavy liquid metal coolant (lead) is considered, in application to the analysis of a lead-cooled fast reactor steam generator tube rupture accident. The model is based on thermodynamic equilibrium formulation for the expanding water-steam mixture and inviscid compressible formulation for the surrounding liquid lead, with the interface conditions determined from the solution of the Riemann problem. Numerical solution is performed in the spherically symmetric geometry using a conservative numerical scheme with a moving sharp interface. Transient pressure and velocity profiles in each phase are presented for the parameters typical of the steam generator tube rupture accidents, demonstrating the process of boiling water expansion and pressure wave formation in the coolant. The results obtained are compared with a simplified model which considers the volume-averaged parameters of boiling water droplets and considers coolant as an incompressible liquid. Good agreement between the full and simplified models is demonstrated. Impacts of coolant flow on structures caused by pressure wave propagation and subsequent coolant flow are discussed.
On the Resolution Improvement of Radar Target Identification with Filtering Antenna Effects
Authors: Bannawat Lakkhana , Boonpoonga Akkarat , Burintramart Santana , Akkaraekthalin Prayoot
Published: February 2018

An investigation on the improvement of the resolution of a radar target identification system is presented in this paper. Degradation of resolution is mainly due to influence factors associated with antennas, including the strong coupling between transmitting and receiving antennas and the variation in the antenna response. A filtering technique was therefore introduced to mitigate the underlying problem. In the technique, the antenna effects were filtered out of the total response backscattered from the objects in the radar target identification system. The short-time matrix pencil method (STMPM) was then employed to extract the poles from the backscattered response in order to identify the object. Simulation and experimentation examples are illustrated to confirm the improvement of the resolution by filtering the antenna effects. The simulation and experimentation were divided into several categories, that is, different antennas and differently shaped objects, in order to validate the advantage of filtering the antenna effects. They were setup in order to demonstrate that the poles obtained from performing the STMPM without the filtering technique were mainly because of the antenna rather than the object’s characteristic. The results showed that the resolution of the identification was significantly increased when performing pole extraction and filtering the antenna effects.
Curcumin as a Promising Antibacterial Agent: Effects on Metabolism and Biofilm Formation inS. mutans
Authors: Li Bingchun , Li Xinlong , Lin Huancai , Zhou Yan
Published: February 2018

Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans)has been proved to be the main aetiological factor in dental caries. Curcumin, a natural product, has been shown to exhibit therapeutic antibacterial activity, suggesting that curcumin may be of clinical interest. The objective of this study is to evaluate the inhibitory effects of curcumin on metabolism and biofilm formation inS. mutansusing a vitro biofilm model in an artificial oral environment.S. mutansbiofilms were treated with varying concentrations of curcumin. The biofilm metabolism and biofilm biomass were assessed by the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay and the crystal violet assay. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was used to analyse the composition and extracellular polysaccharide content ofS. mutansbiofilm after curcumin treatment. The biofilm structure was evaluated using a scanning electron microscope. The gene expression of virulence-related factors was assessed by real-time PCR. The antibiofilm effect of curcumin was compared with that of chlorhexidine. The sessile minimum inhibitory concentration (SMIC50%) of curcumin againstS. mutansbiofilm was 500 μM. Curcumin reduced the biofilm metabolism from 5 min to 24 h. Curcumin inhibited the quantity of live bacteria and total bacteria in both the short term (5 min) and the long term. Moreover, curcumin decreased the production of extracellular polysaccharide in the short term. The expression of genes related to extracellular polysaccharide synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, adherence, and the two-component transduction system decreased after curcumin treatment. The chlorhexidine-treated group showed similar results. We speculate that curcumin has the capacity to be developed as an alternative agent with the potential to reduce the pathogenic traits ofS. mutansbiofilm.
A Comparative Analysis of 2-(Thiocyanomethylthio)-Benzothiazole Degradation Using Electro-Fenton and Anodic Oxidation on a Boron-Doped Diamond Electrode
Authors: Vázquez Armando , Alvarado Lucía , Lázaro Isabel , Cruz Roel , Nava José Luis , Rodríguez-Torres Israel
Published: March 2018

2-(Thiocyanomethylthio)-benzothiazole (TCMTB) is used as fungicide in the paper, tannery, paint, and coatings industries, and its study is important as it is considered toxic to aquatic life. In this study, a comparison of direct anodic oxidation (AO) using a boron-doped diamond electrode (BDD) and electro-Fenton (EF) processes for TCMTB degradation in acidic chloride and sulfate media using a FM01-LC reactor was performed. The results of the electrolysis processes studied in the FM01-LC reactor showed a higher degradation of TCMTB with the anodic oxidation process than with the electro-Fenton process, reaching 81% degradation for the former process versus 47% degradation for the latter process. This difference was attributed to the decrease in H2O2 during the EF process, due to parallel oxidation of chlorides. The degradation rate and current efficiency increased as a function of volumetric flow rate, indicating that convection promotes anodic oxidation and electro-Fenton processes. The results showed that both AO and EF processes could be useful strategies for TCMTB toxicity reduction in wastewaters.
UPPGHA: Uniform Privacy Preservation Group Handover Authentication Mechanism for mMTC in LTE-A Networks
Authors: Cao Jin , Li Hui , Ma Maode , Li Fenghua
Published: February 2018

Machine Type Communication (MTC), as one of the most important wireless communication technologies in the future wireless communication, has become the new business growth point of mobile communication network. It is a key point to achieve seamless handovers within Evolved-Universal Terrestrial Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) for massive MTC (mMTC) devices in order to support mobility in the Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) networks. When mMTC devices simultaneously roam from a base station to a new base station, the current handover mechanisms suggested by the Third-Generation Partnership Project (3GPP) require several handover signaling interactions, which could cause the signaling load over the access network and the core network. Besides, several distinct handover procedures are proposed for different mobility scenarios, which will increase the system complexity. In this paper, we propose a simple and secure uniform group-based handover authentication scheme for mMTC devices based on the multisignature and aggregate message authentication code (AMAC) techniques, which is to fit in with all of the mobility scenarios in the LTE-A networks. Compared with the current 3GPP standards, our scheme can achieve a simple authentication process with robust security protection including privacy preservation and thus avoid signaling congestion. The correctness of the proposed group handover authentication protocol is formally proved in the Canetti-Krawczyk (CK) model and verified based on the AVISPA and SPAN.
Electrochemical Biosensor Based on Optimized Biocomposite for Organophosphorus and Carbamates Pesticides Detection
Authors: Montes R. , Céspedes F. , Gabriel D. , Baeza M.
Published: March 2018

This paper presents the characterization and optimization of biosensors based on graphite-epoxy which incorporates the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE). By means of advanced electrochemical techniques, such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV), the characterization and optimization of graphite-epoxy-AChE biosensors have been performed. In order to obtain sensitive electrodes, the optimal composition of the transducer material (graphite-epoxy-enzyme ratio) was studied. The optimization of the conductive particles distribution inside the biomaterial has allowed an improvement of the electrochemical properties. Optimal composition guarantees improving electrochemical properties required, such as high electron-transfer rate, high signal-to-noise ratio, and suitable sensitivity. The optimal biocomposite composition range was obtained between 16% and 17% of graphite and 0.12% of AChE. The biosensors were applied to the analysis of different pesticides, organophosphorus and carbamates, using indirect measurements based on enzymatic inhibition process. These optimized biosensors present detection limit one order of magnitude lower compared to the standard composition (nonoptimized) and allow achieving concentrations lower than the established ones by the pesticides regulation. Finally, spiked tap water samples with pesticides were analyzed with the optimized biosensors.
Information Management for the Assistive Technology Provision in Community: Perspectives of Local Policymakers and Health Service Providers
Authors: Lersilp Suchitporn , Putthinoi Supawadee , Okahashi Sayaka
Published: February 2018

Background. Assistive technology (AT) is a way to enhance the performance of daily activities in people with disabilities and help them live more independently. However, an important problem in providing AT lies in the effectiveness of information management. Local policymakers and health service providers have become aware of this problem and their perspectives are the key to solving it.Methods. This study explored the types of AT provided for people with disabilities in the community and the perspectives on information management of local policymakers and health service providers. A survey checklist and semistructured in-depth interview were the instruments of this study. The key informants in this study included administrators, nurses, and physical therapists from four community areas in Chiang Mai, Thailand.Results. The medical records showed that the types of AT provided were mostly second-hand (57.24%) and borrowed devices (57.73%). All of them were low-tech devices (crutch, cane, walker, wheelchair, and adaptive tricycle). In addition, the results indicated three perspective aspects related to information management: (1) problems in the database recording system, (2) different policies and processes of information management, and (3) improvement of the AT provision system.Conclusion. The perspectives of local policymakers and health service providers indicated related problems, impacts of policies, and ways to improve the AT provision system by applying information technology.
Effect of Marolo(Annona crassifloraMart.)Pulp Flour Addition in Food Bars
Authors: Silva Jéssyca Santos , Damiani Clarissa , Silva Edson Pablo , Ruffi Cristiane Rodrigues Gomes , Asquieri Eduardo Ramirez , Silva Thays Lorrayne Lavrinha e , Vilas Boas Eduardo Valério de Barros
Published: February 2018

Due to increasing consumer demand for healthy foods, attempts are being made to improve their nutritional value. Thus, there is a necessity to develop food bars enriched with dietary fiber and palatable nutritional components. The aim of this study was to evaluate the shelf life of food bars, prepared with different proportions of marolo pulp flour (20, 30, 40, and 50% replacement of oatmeal) for six-month storage, through nutritional and physical analysis, as well as sensory acceptance. The total dietary fiber content showed an average of 7.1 g·100 g−1. There was a significant increase in antioxidant activity, vitamin C, and total carotenoids content according to increasing concentration of marolo pulp flour in the food bars. In sensory evaluation, the food bar with addition of 50% marolo pulp flour showed higher averages for all evaluated attributes and was the favorite by the evaluators.
UAV Path Prediction for CD&R to Manned Aircraft in a Confined Airspace for Cooperative Mission
Authors: Lin Chin E. , Lai Ya-Hsien
Published: March 2018

In this paper, a new path prediction approach for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for conflict detection and resolution (CD&R) to manned aircraft in cooperative mission in a confined airspace is proposed. Path prediction algorithm is established to estimate UAV flight trajectory to predict conflict threat to manned aircraft in time advances (front-end process of CD&R system). A hybrid fusion model is formulated based on three different trajectory prediction conditions considering scenarios in geographical conditions to aid the generation of appropriate resolution advisory of conflict alert. It offers a more precise CD&R system for manned and unmanned aircraft in cooperative rescue missions.
Influence of Polishing Methods on the Bonding Effectiveness and Durability of Different Resin Cements to Dentin
Authors: Ren Lingyan , Li Mingfei , Pan Yahui , Meng Xiangfeng
Published: February 2018

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of polishing methods on the bonding effectiveness and durability of different resin cements to dentin. The dentin surfaces were either treated with a fine-grit diamond bur (polishing A) or further polished by polishing disks (polishing B), and then they were bonded with any one of the three resin cements, namely, etch-and-rinse, self-etch, and self-adhesive resin cements. After 24-hour or 2-year water storage, a microtensile bond strength (μTBS) test was performed. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to observe the morphology of the smear layer as well as the resin-dentin bonding interface. The results indicated that a thinner smear layer thickness was created by polishing B compared with polishing A. Although self-etch and self-adhesive resin cements achieved a relatively high primary bond strength before water degradation, etch-and-rinse resin cement obtained a stable bond strength during water degradation. The application of an additional polishing procedure could improve the bond strength of self-etch and self-adhesive resin cements.
TRPM2 Mediates Neutrophil Killing of Disseminated Tumor Cells
Authors: Gershkovitz Maya , Caspi Yaki , Fainsod-Levi Tanya , Katz Ben , Michaeli Janna , Khawaled Saleh , Lev Shaya , Polyansky Lola , Shaul Merav E. , Sionov Ronit V. , Cohen-Daniel Leonor , Aqeilan Rami I. , Shaul Yoav D. , Mori Yasuo , Karni Rotem , Fridlender Zvi G. , Binshtok Alexander M. , Granot Zvi
Published: February 2018

Neutrophils play a critical role in cancer, with both protumor and antitumor neutrophil subpopulations reported. The antitumor neutrophil subpopulation has the capacity to kill tumor cells and limit metastatic spread, yet not all tumor cells are equally susceptible to neutrophil cytotoxicity. Because cells that evade neutrophils have greater chances of forming metastases, we explored the mechanism neutrophils use to kill tumor cells. Neutrophil cytotoxicity was previously shown to be mediated by secretion of H2O2. We report here that neutrophil cytotoxicity is Ca2+ dependent and is mediated by TRPM2, a ubiquitously expressed H2O2-dependent Ca2+ channel. Perturbing TRPM2 expression limited tumor cell proliferation, leading to attenuated tumor growth. Concomitantly, cells expressing reduced levels of TRPM2 were protected from neutrophil cytotoxicity and seeded more efficiently in the premetastatic lung.

Significance: These findings identify the mechanism utilized by neutrophils to kill disseminated tumor cells and to limit metastatic spread. Cancer Res; 78(10); 2680–90. ©2018 AACR.