bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermodal supply chains methodology and economic efficiency study of its implementation (using the example of an Iron and Steel Company)
Authors: Pytaleva O.A. , Dyorina N.V. , Fridrikhson O.V.
Published: June 2017

Currently the global market for intermodal transport (containers in particular) is evolving at a significant pace. The Russian market development of intermodal transport occurs with low speed. It should be noted that low competitiveness of container transport prevents the development of intermodal delivery method within Russia. In addition, this factor stops implementing national transit potential of transport corridors passing through the territory of the country. To date the delivery chains formation is perceived as a secondary process, which provides the scope for production sector and delivers the finished product to the consumer. However, it is the intensive development of intermodal technologies that remains an economic security guarantee and a reserve for increasing the product competitiveness opposed to the rate of finished products production. As a result, the method development of intermodal supply chains formation at large industrial enterprises appears very important. The paper deals with a model and algorithm of forming a system of intermodal cargo delivery chains of the metallurgical enterprises. We performed calculation of the potential economic benefits from their introduction.
Research of the elasticity of electric energy tariff demand on competitive market of unified energy system of the Ural
Authors: Mokhov V.G. , Demyanenko T.S.
Published: June 2017

The aim of the study is to analyze the youngest in the world competitive market of electric energy and power of Russia. The hypothesis that there is a significant time lag between the launch date regulated competitive energy market and the actual state of its transition to a stationary operation. To test the hypothesis covered the electric energy consumer’s reaction on tariffs changes in the UES of the Ural in the period of time after restructuring RJSC “UES of Russian Federation”. Factual data of UES of Russia’s System operator shows how indicator values of electric energy consumption elasticity changes: consuming turns from elastic to inelastic according to price. Proved that in 2014 the energy demand matches to a competitive market. As a methodical research tool used 5 types of regression analysis equations for time series of electricity consumption, in addiction by the rate of the day-ahead market for 2009-2014. The research found that the transition to a competitive market of electricity production in Russia in fact was didn’t carried out in 2008, but was carried in 2014. Research proved that the electricity market regression analysis applied in predicting short periods of time (day-ahead market), because by increasing the time interval of forecasting accuracy of the forecast is decreases. The research results have great practical significance for the power industry subjects, especially those with high energy intensity of production, as the increase in the accuracy of forecasting reduces fines and total costs for electricity.
Economic efficiency evaluation of merges and acquisitions in the sector of industry based on nonlinear model of synergistical growth of an industrial corporation value
Authors: Ivanov A.E. , Vasilchenko А.А.
Published: June 2017

Numerous research works of the end of the 20th and of the beginning of the 21st century prove that the synergistic effect often declared as the main goal of merges and acquisitions is not generated in fact. This is due to imperfection of the available methodology of its economic evaluation that does not take into account a nonlinear nature of the pooled corporation development. The article suggests a methodology of economic efficiency evaluation of merges and acquisitions in the sector of industry based on identification of synergistically successful acquisition order parameters. These are synergistic effects that with minimal investments in their achievement lead to a disproportionate increase in the value of an industrial corporation. A mathematical model has been created simulating the influence of these investments on the value of an industrial corporation. The model allows one to increase the degree of the decisions validity in merges and acquisitions in the sector of industry.
Efficiency increase of complex production and transport systems management
Authors: Kornilov S. , Lukjanov V. , Antonov A.
Published: June 2017

This article deals with the problem of the reduced efficiency of management in complex production - transport systems due to the lack of co-ordination in the operation of industrial enterprises and transport carrying out their maintenance. The existing transport service schedules for auxiliary departments do not take into account possible changes in operating conditions, the probability of malfunctions and the amount of reserves, which leads to an increase in general production costs. To solve this problem, we propose to use the interval regulation of production and transport processes in all departments of the complex production and transport systems. Also, such regulation involves the determination of traffic service priority. This will allow passing on from the regulated control of production and transport processes to the situational one, adapted to specific conditions, and reducing losses from untimely transport servicing, which will lead to a stores reduction and efficiency increase of the enterprise circulating facilities use. Testing the effectiveness of interval regulation was performed on the system and dynamics simulation model of liquid iron transportation in the oxygen converter shop of the metallurgical enterprise. It was established that the use of interval regulation processes in iron production and its transportation will allow decreasing non-productive downtime by 21% and the amount of the liquid iron in anticipation of recasting in the oxygen converter shop – by 33%. Economical effect of reducing the liquid iron downtime during transportation to the oxygen converter shop will be about 30 million rubles per year.
Evaluating of innovative projects’ effectiveness at industrial enterprises
Authors: Puryaev A.
Published: June 2017

The problem of assessing of innovative projects’ effectiveness in industry from the perspective of integrated and compromise approach is actualized. Taking into consideration main directions of the Russian economy development the tooling of efficiency estimation of innovative projects is offered. Evaluating of the effectiveness is presented as solution of multi-criteria optimization problem (using the theory of fuzzy sets and theory of aggregation). The complex of efficiency measurement parameters is developed, which consists of group of critical parameters and economic parameters. Also we offer the mathematical apparatus of innovative projects’ efficiency evaluation. The technique, the sequence in the process of evaluating of innovative projects’ effectiveness in the industrial enterprises are described in present work.
Identification of business processes of the enterprise by intrinsic states method
Authors: Pluzhnikov V.G. , Kukharenko S.I. , Shikina S.A.
Published: June 2017

The identification of business processes of the industrial enterprise in the course of its operation process is considered in this article. These problems are solved by developing a model of the enterprise by intrinsic states method. Studying of parameters, which characterize the business processes, performs by principal component analysis. The proposed approach makes it possible to verify identity of links between the business processes parameters of the enterprise. The effectiveness of this approach demonstrates in terms of analysis and evaluation of business processes of the particular industrial enterprise.
Methodical assessment and analysis tools of national industrial complex capacity in the regional aspect
Authors: Ter-Grigor’yants Anna A. , Kulagovskaya T.A.
Published: June 2017

Current process of financial instability led to the complex of problems, which solution determines the need to develop the effective management mechanism of regional industrial estates stabilizing their development. The following article is an attempt to develop specific methodical tools to evaluate the environment and the functional results of the national industrial sector with consideration for heterogeneity and uneven territorial development of Russian. Suggested by the authors the implementation of assessment and analysis algorithm of national industrial complexes capacity contributes to a clear objectives statement of industrial policy of territorial authorities and the development on this basis the strategies socio-economic development for a long-term perspective in an unstable market environment.
Innovation capital in the appraisal system of intrinsic industrial enterprise value
Authors: Akhtyamov M.K. , Gonchar E.A.
Published: June 2017

The paper studies innovation capital value of in formation of intrinsic industrial enterprise value. The authors specify a structure of intrinsic industrial enterprise value, establish an innovation capital position therein and describe interrelation between all cost components. Concept and essence of enterprise innovation capital are defined on the basis of a scholarly opinion with concentration on its difference from innovation potential. The scheme of innovation capital formation with involved cost components is described during clarification of nature of innovation capital and its importance in intrinsic industrial enterprise value management. In the paper there is indicated an estimation procedure, in which description differential features of such components appraisal as value of innovation projects in the developmental stage and value of innovation projects in the implementation phase are emphasized based on the author’s clarification of essence of innovation capital and identification of its place in a modified model of intrinsic industrial enterprise value. The proposed procedure of innovation capital estimation is approved by an example of two innovation projects, which are in the different stages, but have the same earning capacity and equal financing terms. The calculation data showed that enterprise innovation capital value, which innovation project is under development, is significantly lower than the same indicator of a company, which innovation project is underway. The recommendations on investment policy improvement, made by the authors, which are aimed at innovation capital compounding and intrinsic industrial enterprise value increase, form the result of the paper.
Methods of internal control in integrated management accounting system of the enterprise
Authors: Shevelev A.E. , Sheveleva E.V. , Gvozdev M.Yu.
Published: June 2017

The purpose of internal control procedure of material and information flows is expression of independent opinion about accounting of material and information flows of the organization, development of recommendations about elimination of detected violations and preparing data to implement automated management accounting system, based on integrated system. Internal control procedure of material and information flows in the enterprise can solve complex of problems about identifying deficiencies in accounting, searching for reserves using information resources, identifying opportunities for implementation of automated management accounting system at the enterprise. Internal control was planned and conducted thus to argue that management statements are free of misstatement, and information flows provide required operability of the entire system. Internal control was carried out on a sample basis and included examining, on a test basis evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in management reports. The disclosure of information about innovative activities, assessment of compliance with the principles and rules of accounting used in the preparation of management reporting, the review of key performance indicators, as well as evaluating the presentation of management reports are presented.
Training of innovative engineers for problems of modernization of a domestic production
Authors: Brusakova I. , Zvontsov A. , Shvetsova O.
Published: June 2017

The actual problem of training of innovative managers for problems of modernization of a domestic production is considered in research. Practice of application of innovative engineering in the sphere of modernization of industrial productions is studied. The perspective of an integrated approach to management of innovative processes is investigated, including competence-based approach to training of innovative managers and modern instruments of management of finance innovative business - processes. Authors offered new approaches to formation of innovative capacity of the domestic industrial enterprises. Different ways of innovation creation are discussing.
Methods of economic reliability assessment for industrial enterprise in the market economy conditions
Authors: Timofeev R.A. , Shlychkov V.V. , Nestulaeva D.R.
Published: June 2017

The paper dwells upon prospects, topicality and scholarly importance of research into formation and assessment of economic reliability in industrial enterprises as socio-economic systems. The main notions and interconnection of the categories of “stability” and “reliability” of socio-economic systems are presented, based on which the conclusion that these notions are not identical is made. From the standpoint of system-synergetic approach, economic reliability comprises reliability of management system, technical development, conservation activities, human resources management, financial and economic development, marketing activities, and production management. The paper presents main methodological principles of integral estimation of economic reliability of an enterprise in modern conditions. It is suggested to apply E. Harrington’s desirability function in order to give a quantitative estimate of economic reliability. In conclusion it is pointed out that assessment of industrial enterprise’s economic reliability can become an effective mechanism of assessing the efficiency of harnessing the manufacturer’s potential and identifying the reserves and inefficient usage of enterprise resources.
Management features of the innovative development of the enterprise taking into account cost-effective use of resources
Authors: Babanova Yu.V. , Gorshenin V.P. , Dolinskaia A.Yu.
Published: June 2017

Modern business is developing in the conditions of innovation-driven economy in which science and technology are the basis of competitive ability and a productive force. Most of the managerial decisions are taken in the context of limited resources and high uncertainty, because they depend on many factors, the dynamics of which is not always possible to estimate with reasonable accuracy. In this article special method is presented, which allows you to formalize the process of management decision, in terms of innovative product development. This method includes matrix analysis and vector calculus. The purpose of this method and model is to develop a set of alternative options for the product development and the selection of the most cost effective projects based on the integration of consumer requirements, innovative product specifications and the manufacturing capability of the organization (initial conditions for the project realization).
Production capacity of metallurgical enterprises in modular structure of management accounting
Authors: Zambrzhitskaia E.S. , Neshporenko D.G. , Dolgopolov O.V.
Published: June 2017

This article is the result of constant research in development of management accounting at modern Russian metallurgical works. The required steps of renovation are presented for the modernization of management accounting system in the case of production capacity. The necessary factors with defined values are systematized for modern enterprises. The main ones are those which are regulate the measure of the payload of production capacity. For the purposes of effective management accounting at metallurgical enterprises it is suggested to use the system of controlling parameters which were formulated for the enterprise for production of rolls. Later in the article the necessary changes to the modular structure of management accounting business are described and expanded with new structural element – “Management of production capacity”. The suggested methodical approach will allow the company management to respond quickly to rapidly changing external environment and, as a consequence, to make effective management decisions.
Energy management оf industrial enterprise
Authors: Lyaskovskaya E.A. , Kurbangaliev M.R.
Published: June 2017

In the intensifying condition of economic situation and increasing competitiveness in domestic and foreign markets, the most important way to develop competitive ability of an industrial company is to reduce energy costs in the production process. Insufficient level of the efficiency of energy resources usage affects an industrial company’s performance indicators and its investment attractiveness. A promising way of solving this matter is to develop and implement a strategy of rational energy consumption, which is aimed at the realization of company’s potential to optimize the consumption of electric energy by using internal and external resources in order to minimize energy costs. The strategy of rational energy consumption defines how an industrial company acquires electric energy and uses it to sustain the production. While developing and implementing the strategy, one should use a systemic and complex way and consider the following: peculiarities of electric energy and power as products; the structure of electric energy market and the possibilities of its consumers; peculiarities of price-formation on electric energy market; technical and technological, organizational and administrative, social and economic parameters of a company, characteristic features of its resource potential and production processes; the results of company’s energy efficiency audit and energy problems; company’s reserves that can increase its energy efficiency. An integral strategy of energy consumption includes a strategy for energy preservation and efficiency and a strategy for energy costs management. Both strategies are interrelated and serve for one purpose, which is minimizing the energy costs. This division helps simplify the analysis, search for alternatives and realization of energy management on operative, tactical and strategic levels, considering the regional and industry-specific peculiarities of an industrial company, its financial performance and efficiency.
The economic efficiency of investment in the development of reserves of small groups of geographically contiguous gold deposits
Authors: Evdokimov S.I. , Galachieva S.V. , Tebloeva D.V.
Published: June 2017

The object of the research is a group of geographically contiguous low volume gold deposits. The subject of the study is an economic justification for a way to involve economic turnover to get a positive commercial result on a specially formed group of gold deposits, in which individual field development is unprofitable. A small production volume, combined with high capital and operating costs are objective reasons for the reduction in investment attractiveness of the deposits which have reserves of gold of <25 tons in the “supply and demand” chain. The economic result will be fundamentally different if the production capacity of the company is increased by combining geographically contiguous low volume deposits in the group where the total reserves of the mountain holding are represented as one deposit. A criteria was developed and it was determined that the economic and technological constraints for the deposit to enter the group would be outpacing growth of the recoverable value of reserves as compared with a decline in their gold content. Deposits of the group are rationally developed on a rotational basis with a seasonal operating mode of small mining enterprises (with an annual underground mining of 5000–50000 tons up to 100,000 tons, with private ownership >50%), equipped with a mobile processing complex with deep processing technology on highly liquid commodity products on site. An economic-mathematical model was devised to determine the rational placement of the processing capacity of the group.A simulation was conducted and an economic evaluation was performed on the effectiveness of investments in individual and group mining projects. The simulation results show that the joint exploitation of the reserves of the group of deposits, the internal rate of return on investments exceed the rate of return of funds to the bank deposit, the return on investment is above the level of inflation. The group project complies with the strategic line of small mining companies in terms of cost recovery terms, availability of financial sources to cover expenses, provision of stable means of income and obtaining competitive advantage.
Increasing economic stability of the industrial enterprise as a result of its market value modeling
Authors: Efimova M.G.
Published: June 2017

The article deals with an urgent problem of the Russian and global economic stability. The issues of management of the modern industrial enterprise in the conditions of variable economy are considered in this research. Also the article highlights the importance of evaluation of industrial enterprises in Russia nowadays. The management model of the industrial enterprise cost based on sustainability criteria is constructed. The author focuses on new approaches to mathematic modeling of business evaluation. The article contains graphs and charts related to performance of enterprise system and different business strategies based on economic sustainability. Relevant problems of management by means of business assessment for enterprises owners and top managers are defined. The aim of the article is to suggest measures for the Russian industry to manage the cost of enterprises and consequently, to make national economy management more effective.
The Synthesis of Imidazo[1,2-f]phenanthridines, Phenanthro-[9,10-d]imidazoles, and Phenanthro[9′,10′:4,5]imidazo[1,2-f]-phenanthridines via Intramolecular Oxidative Aromatic Coupling
Authors: Skonieczny Kamil , Jaźwiński Jarosław , Gryko Daniel
Published: June 2017

A short and efficient access to phenanthro[9,10-d]imidazoles, imidazo[1,2-f]phenanthridines, and phenanthro[9′,10′:4,5]imidazo[1,2-f]phenanthridines was achieved by the action of [bis(trifluoroacetoxy)iodo]benzene (PIFA) on properly substituted tetraaryl­-imidazoles. By pre-installing suitable electron-donating groups, it is possible to control the site of intramolecular oxidative aromatic coupling. In particular, by placing 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl and 3-methoxyphenyl moieties in close proximity, it was possible to direct the reaction into forming two biaryl linkages leading eventually to the formation of phenanthro[9′,10′:4,5]imidazo[1,2-f]phenanthridines. Starting from bis-aldehydes that are derivatives of thieno[3,2-b]thiophene and fluorene enabled the synthesis of π-expanded imidazoles bearing 8-9 conjugated rings. By placing a dimethoxynaphthalene unit on the imidazole scaffold, we have directed the oxidative coupling reaction towards closing a five-membered ring with concomitant removal of methoxy group leading to formation of an α,β-unsaturated ketone. All resulting π-expanded imidazoles display blue emission, and the fluorescence quantum yields in some cases reaches 0.9.
Synthesis of Bifunctional Furano-Allocolchicinoids
Authors: Fedorov Alexey , Gracheva Iuliia , Svirshchevskaya Elena , Zaburdaeva Elena
Published: June 2017

An efficient seven-step semisynthetic approach towards non-racemic bifunctional furano-allocolchicinoids, starting from naturally occurring colchicine is presented. The Pd-catalyzed domino Sonogashira coupling/5-endo-dig cyclization was employed as the key step. The prepared compounds exhibited substantial cytotoxicity against T3M4, MiaPaCa-2, Colo-357, and PANC-1 cell lines. The presence of two functionalities with different reactivity (hydroxyl and amino groups) in the target molecules allows for an easy conjugation of furano-allocolchicinoids with drug delivery carriers, and opens promising opportunities for their further exploitation in the search of therapeutics.
Acute Onset Neurological Disorders during Pregnancy: A Literature Review
Authors: Ferraz Zita , Parra Joana , Areia Ana Luísa , Vasco Elsa , Moura Paulo
Published: June 2017

Objectives To characterize the most common peripheral and central neurological disorders during pregnancy.

Methods Original research and review of the literature on neurological complications during pregnancy. We searched for keywords related to the topic on different databases.

Results Pregnancy involves physiological changes that can trigger peripheral neurological and/or central nervous system pathologies, which can sometimes be associated with hypertensive disorders. A definitive diagnosis of neurological disorders can be made according to the trimester of pregnancy and the clinical findings. Carpal tunnel syndrome and peripheral facial palsy are common peripheral neurological disorders, more frequent in the second half of pregnancy. Central nervous disorders are more complex and a precise diagnosis must be made in order to improve perinatal outcomes, provide correct management and treatment and to prevent acute and long-term complications.

Conclusions It is possible to achieve a precise diagnosis, management and treatment of neurological disorders during pregnancy, but these require a multidisciplinary approach, crucial to improve perinatal outcomes.
Aufwendungen für Prävention vs. Kosten durch Erkrankungen
Authors: Eßer Stefan , Ricken Uwe
Published: June 2017

Ob Prävention auch wirtschaftlich sinnvoll ist, wird immer wieder diskutiert.Die vorgestellte Studie untersuchte aufgrund von Literaturrecherchen und retrospektiven Unternehmensdaten, inwieweit Präventionsmaßnahmen von Unternehmen, die Mitarbeiter auf dienstliche Auslandsreisen entsenden, nicht nur medizinisch sinnvoll sondern auch wirtschaftlich lohnend sind.
White Paper: Interventional MRI: Current Status and Potential for Development Considering Economic Perspectives, Part 1: General Application
Authors: Barkhausen Jörg , Kahn Thomas , Krombach Gabriele , Kuhl Christiane , Lotz Joachim , Maintz David , Ricke Jens , Schönberg Stefan , Vogl Thomas , Wacker Frank ,   German Association of Chairmen in Academic Radiology (KLR)
Published: June 2017

Background MRI is attractive for the guiding and monitoring of interventional procedures due to its high intrinsic soft tissue contrast and the possibility to measure physiologic parameters like flow and cardiac function.

Method The current status of interventional MRI for the clinical routine was analyzed.

Results The effort needed for the development of MR-safe monitoring systems and instruments initially resulted in the application of interventional MRI only for procedures that could not be performed by other means. Accordingly, biopsy of lesions in the breast, which are not detectable by other modalities, has been performed under MRI guidance for decades. Currently, biopsies of the prostate under MRI guidance are established in a similar fashion. At many sites blind biopsy has already been replaced by MR-guided biopsy or at least by the fusion of MR images with ultrasound. Cardiovascular interventions are performed at several centers for ablation as a treatment for atrial fibrillation.

Conclusion Interventional MRI has been established in the clinical routine for a variety of indications. Broader application can be expected in the clinical routine in the future owing to the multiple advantages compared to other techniques.

Key points 

Citation format
Development of a Reference Standard Library of Chloroplast Genome Sequences, GenomeTrakrCP
Authors: Zhang Ning , Ramachandran Padmini , Wen Jun , Duke James , Metzman Helen , McLaughlin William , Ottesen Andrea , Timme Ruth , Handy Sara
Published: June 2017

Precise, species-level identification of plants in foods and dietary supplements is difficult. While the use of DNA barcoding regions (short regions of DNA with diagnostic utility) has been effective for many inquiries, it is not always a robust approach for closely related species, especially in highly processed products. The use of fully sequenced chloroplast genomes, as an alternative to short diagnostic barcoding regions, has demonstrated utility for closely related species. The U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also developed species-specific DNA-based assays targeting plant species of interest by utilizing chloroplast genome sequences. Here, we introduce a repository of complete chloroplast genome sequences called GenomeTrakrCP, which will be publicly available at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Target species for inclusion are plants found in foods and dietary supplements, toxin producers, common contaminants and adulterants, and their close relatives. Publicly available data will include annotated assemblies, raw sequencing data, and voucher information with each NCBI accession associated with an authenticated reference herbarium specimen. To date, 40 complete chloroplast genomes have been deposited in GenomeTrakrCP (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/bioproject/PRJNA325670/), and this will be expanded in the future.
Mass density fluctuations in quantum and classical descriptions of liquid water
Authors: Galib Mirza , Duignan Timothy T. , Misteli Yannick , Baer Marcel D. , Schenter Gregory K. , Hutter Jürg , Mundy Christopher J.
Published: June 2017

First principles molecular dynamics simulation protocol is established using revised functional of Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof (revPBE) in conjunction with Grimme’s third generation of dispersion (D3) correction to describe the properties of water at ambient conditions. This study also demonstrates the consistency of the structure of water across both isobaric (NpT) and isothermal (NVT) ensembles. Going beyond the standard structural benchmarks for liquid water, we compute properties that are connected to both local structure and mass density fluctuations that are related to concepts of solvation and hydrophobicity. We directly compare our revPBE results to the Becke-Lee-Yang-Parr (BLYP) plus Grimme dispersion corrections (D2) and both the empirical fixed charged model (SPC/E) and many body interaction potential model (MB-pol) to further our understanding of how the computed properties herein depend on the form of the interaction potential.
Sample exchange by beam scanning with applications to noncollinear pump–probe spectroscopy at kilohertz repetition rates
Authors: Spencer Austin P. , Hill Robert J. , Peters William K. , Baranov Dmitry , Cho Byungmoon , Huerta-Viga Adriana , Carollo Alexa R. , Curtis Anna C. , Jonas David M.
Published: June 2017

In laser spectroscopy, high photon flux can perturb the sample away from thermal equilibrium, altering its spectroscopic properties. Here, we describe an optical beam scanning apparatus that minimizes repetitive sample excitation while providing shot-to-shot sample exchange for samples such as cryostats, films, and air-tight cuvettes. In this apparatus, the beam crossing point is moved within the focal plane inside the sample by scanning both tilt angles of a flat mirror. A space-filling spiral scan pattern was designed that efficiently utilizes the sample area and mirror scanning bandwidth. Scanning beams along a spiral path is shown to increase the average number of laser shots that can be sampled before a spot on the sample cell is resampled by the laser to ∼1700 (out of the maximum possible 2500 for the sample area and laser spot size) while ensuring minimal shot-to-shot spatial overlap. Both an all-refractive version and an all-reflective version of the apparatus are demonstrated. The beam scanning apparatus does not measurably alter the time delay (less than the 0.4 fs measurement uncertainty), the laser focal spot size (less than the 2 μm measurement uncertainty), or the beam overlap (less than the 3.3% measurement uncertainty), leading to pump–probe and autocorrelation signal transients that accurately characterize the equilibrium sample.
In situ chamber built for clarifying the relationship between methane hydrate crystal morphology and gas permeability in a thin glass micromodel cell
Authors: Muraoka Michihiro , Yamamoto Yoshitaka
Published: June 2017

We developed a novel in situ chamber to investigate the relationship between gas hydrate crystal morphology and gas permeability in a glass micromodel that mimics marine sediment. This high-pressure experimental chamber was able to use a thin glass cell without high pressure resistance. The formation of methane hydrate (MH) in the glass micromodel was observed in situ. We investigated the relationship between the MH growth rate and the degree of super cooling ΔT. In addition, we successfully performed the in situ observation of both hydrate morphology and gas permeability measurement simultaneously.
Peakons and new exact solitary wave solutions of extended quantum Zakharov-Kuznetsov equation
Authors: Zhang Ben-gong , Li Weibo , Li Xiangpeng
Published: June 2017

In this paper, the three dimensional extended quantum Zakharov-Kuznetsov equation, which arises in the dimensionless hydrodynamic equations describing the nonlinear propagation of the quantum ion-acoustic waves, is investigated by an auxiliary equation method. As a result, peakons and a series of new exact traveling wave solutions, including bell-shaped, kink-type solitary wave, shock wave, periodic wave, and Jacobi elliptic solutions, are obtained. We also analyze the three kinds of nonlinear structures of our results, i.e., blowup, peakons, and shock wave. These new exact solutions will enrich the previous results and help us to further understand the physical structures and analyze the nonlinear propagation of the quantum ion-acoustic waves.
Resonant and resistive dual-mode uncooled infrared detectors toward expanded dynamic range and high linearity
Authors: Li Xin , Liang Ji , Zhang Hongxiang , Yang Xing , Zhang Hao , Pang Wei , Zhang Menglun
Published: June 2017

This paper reports an uncooled infrared (IR) detector based on a micromachined piezoelectric resonator operating in resonant and resistive dual-modes. The two sensing modes achieved IR responsivities of 2.5 Hz/nW and 900 μdB/nW, respectively. Compared with the single mode operation, the dual-mode measurement improves the limit of detection by two orders of magnitude and meanwhile maintains high linearity and responsivity in a higher IR intensity range. A combination of the two sensing modes compensates for its own shortcomings and provides a much larger dynamic range, and thus, a wider application field of the proposed detector is realized.
Stable isotope analysis to detect copper (Cu) accumulation in species with high endogenous Cu concentrations: linking Cu accumulation with toxic effects in the gastropod Bembicium nanum
Authors: Ubrihien Rodney P. , Taylor Anne M. , Krikowa Frank , Maher William A.
Published: June 2017

Tissue metal concentrations are widely used as indicators of environmental contamination. High endogenous concentrations of essential metals such as copper (Cu) can mask changes in tissue metal concentrations. Experiments using enriched isotopes can provide greater insight into endogenous Cu exchange and more broadly the exposure–bioaccumulation–response relationship. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of Cu exposure through the dietary uptake route in the intertidal gastropod Bembicium nanum. The marine alga Tetraselmis chuii was cultured at different Cu concentrations and fed to B. nanum. The Cu concentrations in T. chuii and B. nanum were analysed. Effects were measured using the biomarkers – total antioxidant capacity, lipid peroxidation and lysosomal membrane destabilisation in B. nanum. Dietary uptake of Cu in B. nanum was investigated with a feeding experiment using a 65Cu isotopically enriched solution. Although there were no significant differences in the Cu concentrations in B. nanum, lysosomal membrane destabilisation increased with the dietary Cu concentration. The 65Cu experiment demonstrated that B. nanum accumulated Cu under the experimental conditions. The study showed that tissue Cu concentrations are not always indicative of effects in organisms and that enriched isotope analysis assists in understanding the exposure–bioaccumulation–response relationship.
Domain-specific activities in ASL-English interpreting and their relevance to expertise development
Authors: Adams Krista
Published: June 2017

This exploratory mixed-methods study examined domain-specific activities practiced by expert American Sign Language (ASL)-English interpreters. Qualitative data was collected through interviews for initial identification of domain-specific activities, making it possible to establish a list of 19. Then, quantitative data was analyzed from responses to a questionnaire regarding five characteristics of the identified activities: (a) relevance to improvement; (b) requisite effort; (c) inherent enjoyment; (d) frequency; and (e) competence improvement goal. Of the 19 identified activities, four were rated as highly relevant to improvement of interpreting. Characteristics of the four activities were compared with the professional development activities recommended in the Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID) Code of Professional Conduct (CPC), as well as with related domain-specific activities in other professions. Given their higher ratings, defining characteristics, and similarities to activities in other professions, the four activities identified could result in greater performance gains for ASL-English interpreters than the activities recommended in the CPC. The findings may serve to guide interpreters in selecting professional development activities and enhancing their interpreting performance.
The relative need for Comparative Translation Studies
Authors: van Doorslaer Luc
Published: June 2017

This article asks to what extent Comparative Translation Studies is needed and realistic to achieve. The difficulties of comparative approaches in other disciplines are related to translation studies, where ‘comparative’ up to now has been used for several levels of analysis. An important difference with most other disciplines is that comparison seems to be more self-evident in a trans-discipline like translation studies, where transfer between two or more sides is always immanently present. The selection of the units of analysis/comparison is a pitfall, particularly when working with larger units at a systemic or sociocultural level when studying cultural (ex)change. It is suggested that existing tools used in translation studies can be helpful in structuring the approach and the methodology: both mixed-method models from descriptive translation studies and existing conceptual maps in the discipline.
Phase I Trial of Radiosurgery Dose Escalation Plus Bevacizumab in Patients With Recurrent/Progressive Glioblastoma
Authors: Abbassy Mahmoud , Missios Symeon , Barnett Gene H , Brewer Cathy , Peereboom David M , Ahluwalia Manmeet , Neyman Gennady , Chao Samuel T , Suh John H , Vogelbaum Michael A
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

The effectiveness of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for recurrent glioblastoma (rGBM) remains uncertain. SRS has been associated with a high risk of radionecrosis in gliomas.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the safety of dose escalation of single-fraction radiosurgery for rGBM in the setting of bevacizumab therapy.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective trial to determine the safety and synergistic benefit of higher doses of SRS administered with bevacizumab for rGBM. A single dose of bevacizumab was given prior to SRS and continued until progression. Dose-limiting toxicity was evaluated in successive cohorts of 3 patients.

RESULTS

Seven males and 2 females entered the study. The maximum linear diameter of the enhancing tumor was 2.58 cm (2.04-3.09). Prescription dose was escalated from 18 to 22 Gy. The radiosurgery target was chosen before the first dose of bevacizumab, about 1 wk prior to SRS treatment. Pre-SRS bevacizumab treatment was associated with a reduction of the mean volume of the enhancing lesion from 4.7 to 2.86 cm3 on the day of SRS (P = .103). No patient developed an acute side effect related to SRS treatment. The combination of SRS and bevacizumab resulted in a partial response in 3 patients and stable disease in 6 patients. Median progression-free and overall survival were 7.5 and 13 mo, respectively.

CONCLUSION

A single dose of bevacizumab prior to SRS permitted safe prescription dose escalation up to 22 Gy for rGBM. Further evaluation of the efficacy of SRS for rGBM should be performed in the setting of bevacizumab treatment.
Suppression of Soilborne Diseases of Soybean With Cover Crops
Authors: Wen L. , Lee-Marzano S. , Ortiz-Ribbing L. M. , Gruver J. , Hartman G. L. , Eastburn D. M.
Published: June 2017

Field trials were conducted from 2010 to 2013 at four locations in Illinois to evaluate the impact of cover crops (cereal rye [Secale cereal], brown mustard [Brassica juncea], winter canola [B. napus], and winter rapeseed [B. napus]) on soybean [Glycine max] stands and yield, diseases, pathogen populations, and soil microbial communities. Cover crops were established in the fall each year and terminated the following spring either by using an herbicide (no-till farms), by incorporation (organic farm), or by an herbicide followed by incorporation (research farm). Although shifts in soilborne pathogen populations and microbial community structure were not detected, cover crops were found to induce general soil suppressiveness in some circumstances. Cereal rye and rapeseed improved soybean stands in plots inoculated with Rhizoctonia solani and decreased levels of soybean cyst nematode in the soil. Cereal rye increased soil suppressiveness to R. solani and Fusarium virguliforme, as measured in greenhouse bioassays. Cereal rye significantly improved yield when Rhizoctonia root rot was a problem.
The independent influences of age and education on functional brain networks and cognition in healthy older adults
Authors: Perry Alistair , Wen Wei , Kochan Nicole A. , Thalamuthu Anbupalam , Sachdev Perminder S. , Breakspear Michael
Published: June 2017

Healthy ageing is accompanied by a constellation of changes in cognitive processes and alterations in functional brain networks. The relationships between brain networks and cognition during ageing in later life are moderated by demographic and environmental factors, such as prior education, in a poorly understood manner. Using multivariate analyses, we identify three latent patterns (or modes) linking resting-state functional connectivity to demographic and cognitive measures in 101 cognitively-normal elders. The first mode (p=0.00043) captures an opposing association between age and core cognitive processes such as attention and processing speed on functional connectivity patterns. The functional subnetwork expressed by this mode links bilateral sensorimotor and visual regions through key areas such as the parietal operculum. A strong, independent association between years of education and functional connectivity loads onto a second mode (p=0.012), characterised by the involvement of key hub-regions. A third mode (p=0.041) captures weak, residual brain-behaviour relations. Our findings suggest that circuits supporting lower-level cognitive processes are most sensitive to the influence of age in healthy older adults. Education, and to a lesser extent, executive functions, load independently onto functional networks - suggesting that the moderating effect of education acts upon networks distinct from those vulnerable with ageing. This has important implications in understanding the contribution of education to cognitive reserve during healthy ageing.
Molecular evolution, diversity and adaptation of H7N9 influenza A viruses in China
Authors: Lu Jing , Raghwani Jayna , Wu Jie , Pryce Rhys , Bowden Thomas A. , Thézé Julien , Huang Shanqian , Song Yingchao , Zou Lirong , Liang Lijun , Bai Ru , Jin Yi , Zhou Pingping , Kang Min , Yi Lina , Pybus Oliver G. , Ke Changwen
Published: June 2017

A novel H7N9 avian influenza virus has caused five human epidemics in China since 2013. The substantial increase in prevalence and the emergence of antigenically divergent or highly pathogenic (HP) H7N9 strains during the current outbreak raises concerns about the epizootic-potential of these viruses. Here, we investigate the evolution and adaptation of H7N9 by combining publicly available data with newly generated virus sequences isolated in Guangdong between 2015-2017. Phylogenetic analyses show that currently-circulating H7N9 viruses belong to distinct lineages with differing spatial distributions. Using ancestral sequence reconstruction and structural modelling we have identified parallel amino-acid changes on multiple separate lineages. Furthermore, we infer mutations in HA primarily occur at sites involved in receptor-recognition and/or antigenicity. We also identify seven new HP strains, which likely emerged from viruses circulating in eastern Guangdong around March 2016 and is further associated with a high rate of adaptive molecular evolution.
A rate threshold mechanism regulates MAPK stress signaling and survival
Authors: Johnson Amanda N. , Li Guoliang , Jashnsaz Hossein , Thiemicke Alexander , Kesler Benjamin K. , Rogers Dustin C. , Neuert Gregor
Published: June 2017

Cells are exposed to changes in extracellular stimulus concentration that vary as a function of rate. However, the effect of stimulation rate on cell behavior and signaling remains poorly understood. Here, we examined how varying the rate of stress application alters budding yeast cell viability and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling at the single-cell level. We show that cell survival and signaling depend on a rate threshold that operates in conjunction with a concentration threshold to determine the timing of MAPK signaling during rate-varying stimulus treatments. We also discovered that the stimulation rate threshold is sensitive to changes in the expression levels of the Ptp2 phosphatase, but not of another phosphatase that similarly regulates osmostress signaling during switch-like treatments. Our results demonstrate that stimulation rate is a regulated determinant of signaling output and provide a paradigm to guide the dissection of major stimulation rate-dependent mechanisms in other systems.