bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of CES-D among 56–66 year old people of Dutch, Moroccan and Turkish origin: Measurement invariance and mean differences between the groups
Authors: Klokgieters Silvia , Mokkink Lidwine , Galenkamp Henrike , Beekman Aartjan , Comijs Hannie
Published: September 2018

When assessing depressive symptoms across ethnic populations it is important to ensure that items from a questionnaire are valued and interpreted similarly across groups. We aimed to examine measurement (in)variance of the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES-D) among people of Dutch, Moroccan and Turkish origin in the Netherlands and to compare the level of depressive symptoms across these three groups. Data were used from the Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, including 269 people from Turkish, 209 from Moroccan and 618 from Dutch origin (aged 55–65 years). A multi-group confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA) was performed to test measurement invariance of the four-factor CES-D across the three cohorts. To compare scores across ethnic groups, we performed ANCOVA. The four subscales of the CES-D (depressed affect, positive affect, somatic symptoms, and interpersonal problems) appeared measurement invariant in people of Dutch, Moroccan and Turkish origin. Turkish and Moroccan participants reported more depressive symptoms on all four domains. The four subscales of the CES-D measure the same constructs in people of Dutch, Moroccan and Turkish origin. Higher levels of depressive symptoms in the migrants groups are therefore not due to measurement invariance, but point to increased mental health problems in these groups.
Modeling and interpreting regressions with interactions
Authors: Burks Jeffrey J. , Randolph David W. , Seida Jim A.
Published: September 2018

This study examines the use of linear regressions that include interaction terms, finding frequent interpretation errors in published accounting research. We provide insights on how to estimate, interpret, and present interactive regression models, and explain seldom-used but easily-implemented methods to report conditional marginal effects. We also examine the use of interaction terms in tax and financial reporting trade-off studies, evaluating the conceptual fit between a regression model with interactions and alternative definitions of trade-off. Although we advocate the use of interactive models, noise levels common in accounting research greatly reduce the ability to detect interaction effects.
Incomplete 5-FU based adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with stage III colon cancer significantly prolongs overall survival
Authors: Hoffmann Martin , Ogbonnaya Lucky , Benecke Claudia , Braun Ruediger , Zimmermann Markus , Schloericke Erik , Keck Tobias
Published: September 2018

ABSTRACT

Purpose:

Adjuvant chemotherapy is considered standard of care in patients with stage III colon cancer. Because of different reasons in many patients not all chemotherapy cycles are completed or chemotherapy is completely withheld.

Methods:

We analyzed the data of 215 consecutive patients with UICC stage III colon cancer between 01/1997 and 01/2010. Incomplete adjuvant chemotherapy was defined as completion of less than 2/3 of the planned chemotherapy cycles.

Results:

Of 104 patients with adjuvant therapy, 46 patients had incomplete chemotherapy. We were able to show a statistically significant survival advantage concerning disease-free 5-year-survival between patients with incomplete and without chemotherapy (76% vs. 53%, (p = 0,003). This superior effect was even more pronounced with regard to overall 5-year-survival with 82% vs. 57% (p = 0,001). No statistically significant differences were shown between complete and incomplete adjuvant chemotherapy.

Conclusions:

Although our study was not randomized we were able to show a highly statistically significant survival advantage of incomplete adjuvant chemotherapy in patients with UICC stage III colon cancer. If side effects of chemotherapy are tolerable for the patient, temporary limitations of the individual quality of life are outweighed by the survival advantage even if therapy is not completed.

Highlights:
Purchasing managers' willingness to pay for attributes that constitute sustainability
Authors: Goebel Philipp , Reuter Carsten , Pibernik Richard , Sichtmann Christina , Bals Lydia
Published: September 2018

Considering the increasing international division of labor, as well as stakeholders' growing awareness of sustainability, assuring that business practices are sustainable is a major challenge. Companies have to account for the fact that any misconduct at a supplier's premises may have spillover effects that reach the manufacturer or retailer. Therefore, purchasing managers have to assure that their suppliers are compliant with sustainability standards. This, however, may induce higher purchasing costs and, as a consequence, force a trade‐off between (short term) economic (i.e., purchasing cost reduction) and social/environmental sustainability criteria. How purchasing managers evaluate this trade‐off is particularly interesting because they often receive performance‐based salaries that incentivize the reduction of purchasing costs. Our paper sheds light on this trade‐off by examining how much purchasing managers are willing to pay to assure compliance along different sustainability dimensions when selecting new suppliers in a mature market setting, namely Germany. Additionally, we identify potential (individual, professional, and organization‐related) factors that may impact the purchasing managers' willingness to pay (WTP), and examine their effects. Among the most surprising findings, purchasing managers on average are willing to pay a price premium for manuals that demonstrate compliance with the United Nationals Global Compact (UNGC). Furthermore, the results show that this WTP is mostly influenced (negatively) by self‐enhancement (on the individual level) and/or obedience to authority (on the organizational level), but the effects of company, affiliation with the UNGC, gender, or years of experience have no influence. Moreover, the WTP is higher for the social than for the environmental dimension, and the marginal effect of accreditation on WTP depends on which combinations of dimensions are accredited.
Advancing CALL research via data-mining techniques: Unearthing hidden groups of learners in a corpus-based L2 vocabulary learning experiment
Authors: Lee Hansol , Warschauer Mark , Lee Jang Ho
Published: September 2018

In this study, we used a data-mining approach to identify hidden groups in a corpus-based second-language (L2) vocabulary experiment. After a vocabulary pre-test, a total of 132 participants performed three online reading tasks (in random orders) equipped with the following glossary types: (1) concordance lines and definitions of target lexical items, (2) concordance lines of target lexical items, and (3) no glossary information. Although the results of a previous study based on variable-centred analysis (i.e. multiple regression analysis) revealed that more glossary information could lead to better learning outcomes (Lee, Warschauer & Lee, 2017), using a model-based clustering technique in the present study allowed us to unearth learner types not identified in the previous analysis. Instead of the performance pattern found in the previous study (more glossary led to higher gains), we identified one learner group who exhibited their ability to make successful use of concordance lines (and thus are optimized for data-driven learning, or DDL; Johns, 1991), and another group who showed limited L2 vocabulary learning when exposed to concordance lines only. Further, our results revealed that L2 proficiency intersects with vocabulary gains of different learner types in complex ways. Therefore, using this technique in computer-assisted language learning (CALL) research to understand differential effects of accommodations can help us better identify hidden learner types and provide personalized CALL instruction.
Convection‐Permitting Simulation of a Heavy Rainfall Event in Armenia Using the WRF Model
Authors: Gevorgyan Artur
Published: September 2018

On 2 July 2016 afternoon a heavy rainfall (52.8 mm) was observed over southwestern part of Armenia, at Talin station. High‐frequency radar observations and Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model output show that initiation of earliest convection occurred over Aragats mountain massif around noon due to low‐level convergence of thermally induced upslope winds. Further convective development was affected by generation of secondary convection as a result of interaction between cold pool outflows from developed convective cells and upslope winds. The high‐resolution WRF run (3 km) using NSSL two‐moment cloud microphysics parametrization and the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecasts operational model forcing data best reproduces the location, timing, magnitude, and microphysical structure of the observed convective rainfall among six WRF microphysical schemes tested in this study. Radar observations show that cold cloud process typical for continental‐type deep convection was observed in Armenia. The NSSL includes the double‐moment microphysics schemes for both warm and cold cloud processes, which might be a reason for improved simulation of observed heavy rainfall event in Armenia. Using the coarser resolution ERA5 analysis forcing data in the WRF model leads to simulation of earlier rainfall peaks at Talin station and spurious convective rainfall areas. The WRF model forced by the Global Data Assimilation System Final analysis from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction, even run at 3‐km resolution, is not able to reproduce the accurate location of convection and rainfall over the study area.
Lightning: A New Essential Climate Variable
Authors: Aich Valentin , Holzworth Robert , Goodman Steven , Kuleshov Yuriy , Price Colin , Williams Earle
Published: September 2018

Lightning is a symptom and a cause of climate change. A recently established task team is working to make lightning data available and useful for climate science and service applications.
We Can Work It Out: Avoiding Disasters
Authors: AghaKouchak Amir , van der Pluijm Ben
Published: September 2018

Strengthening societal resilience by focusing on the interactions between natural hazards, the built environment and human societies.
Constraining the Magmatic Plumbing System in a Zoned Continental Flood Basalt Province
Authors: Rooney Tyrone O. , Krans Susan R. , Mège Daniel , Arnaud Nicolas , Korme Tesfaye , Kappelman John , Yirgu Gezahegn
Published: September 2018

The geographic heterogeneities in lava composition observed in continental flood basalt provinces could provide a probe of material upwelling from the deep mantle and their length scales, but their utility is limited by uncertainties in the locus of magmatism. We examine the magma plumbing system for the Oligocene Ethiopian flood basalts. The province, which exhibits domains defined by the eruption of low‐Ti (LT) and high‐Ti (HT) lavas, requires a magmatic plumbing system that facilitates the transit of compositionally distinct magmas through the crust without mixing. Here we present a geochemical and geochronological study of a suite of 43 dikes from western Ethiopia. We find that the dikes were dominantly emplaced contemporaneously with the Oligocene flood basalt phase of activity. The composition of the dikes is overwhelmingly LT in character, typified by an overall flat rare earth element pattern (median value of La/LuCN = 2.6), and a lack of enrichment in incompatible trace elements in comparison to the HT lavas. These observations confirm the western Ethiopian dike swarm as a source for the LT flood basalts in the Ethiopian flood basalt province. We also present tentative evidence for an eastward migration in the LT dike system over time. These observations are consistent with the terminal stages of the LT magmatism being centered on the Simien shield volcano. We conclude that the apparent separation of ~400 km between the LT and HT magma plumbing systems allowed for the development of a strongly geochemically zoned continental flood basalt province.
Evolution of Electron Distribution Driven by Nonlinear Resonances With Intense Field‐Aligned Chorus Waves
Authors: Vainchtein D. , Zhang X.‐J. , Artemyev A. V. , Mourenas D. , Angelopoulos V. , Thorne R. M.
Published: September 2018

Resonant electron interaction with whistler mode chorus waves is recognized as one of the main drivers of radiation belt dynamics. For moderate wave intensity, this interaction is well described by quasi‐linear theory. However, recent statistics of parallel propagating chorus waves have demonstrated that 5–20% of the observed waves are sufficiently intense to interact nonlinearly with electrons. Such interactions include phase trapping and phase bunching (nonlinear scattering) effects not described by quasi‐linear diffusion. For sufficiently long (large) wave packets, these nonlinear effects can result in very rapid electron acceleration and scattering. In this paper we introduce a method to include trapping and nonlinear scattering into the kinetic equation describing the evolution of the electron distribution function. We use statistics of Van Allen Probes and Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms observations to determine the probability distribution of intense, long wave packets as a function of power and frequency. Then we develop an analytical model of individual particle resonance with an intense chorus wave packet and derive the main properties of this interaction: probability of electron trapping, energy change due to trapping and nonlinear scattering. These properties are combined in a nonlocal operator acting on the electron distribution function. When multiple waves are present, we average the obtained operator over the observed distributions of waves and examine solutions of the resultant kinetic equation. We also examine energy conservation and its implications in systems with nonlinear wave‐particle interaction.
Lower Ionospheric Plasma‐Chemical Evolution and VLF Signal Modulation by a Series of SGR X‐Ray Bursts: Numerical Simulation With an Ion‐Chemistry Model
Authors: Palit Sourav , Raulin Jean‐Pierre , Correia Emilia
Published: September 2018

The X‐ray and gamma ray radiation from astrophysical transient sources, like X‐ray bursts from soft gamma repeaters (SGRs) and gamma ray bursts (GRBs), can affect the plasma properties of the lower ionosphere and middle atmosphere. Multiple very low frequency (VLF) receivers in South America, with an unprecedented high time resolution of 20 ms, detected one such series of bursts from SGR J1550‐5418 on 22 January 2009. Due to lack of other suitable means of observation corresponding to the lower part of Earth's ionosphere (∼60–100 km), the VLF detection and analysis of transient ionizing events (mostly of solar origin) has emerged as an excellent method to investigate various chemical and plasma characteristics at these heights. Extragalactic events, like SGR bursts and GRBs, with sharp modulation in their radiation time profile and very high energy photon abundances provide most unique opportunities of such studies with the possibility of extending even lower heights in the atmosphere. Here, for the first time, an extensive computer model, consisting of the combination of Monte Carlo ionization rate computation, a one dimensional atmospheric chemistry module, and VLF waveguide mode calculation, for the reconstruction of VLF signal modulation produced by SGR X‐ray burst starting from the observed spectrum and lightcurve of the event is presented. We gain some valuable insight on the nature of chemical and dynamic evolution over the entire height range of the atmosphere examined from the exercise.
Estimating the Kinetic Energy Budget of the Polar Wind Outflow
Authors: Li Kun , Wei Y. , Haaland S. , Kronberg E. A. , Rong Z. J. , Maes L. , Maggiolo R. , André M. , Nilsson H. , Grigorenko E.
Published: September 2018

Ionospheric outflow from the polar cap through the polar wind plays an important role in the evolution of the atmosphere and magnetospheric dynamics. Both solar illumination and solar wind energy input are known to be energy sources of the polar wind. However, observational studies of the energy transfer from these two energy sources to the polar wind are difficult. Because of their low energy, polar wind ions are invisible to regular ion detectors onboard a positively charged spacecraft. Using a new technique that indirectly measures these low‐energy ions, we are able to estimate the energy budget of the polar wind. Our results show that solar illumination provides about 107 W of the kinetic energy of the polar wind, in addition to the energy transferred from the solar wind with a maximum rate of about 108 W. The energy transfer efficiency of solar illumination to the kinetic energy of the polar wind is about 6 to 7 orders of magnitude lower than that of the solar wind. Moreover, daily and seasonal changes in the orientation of the geomagnetic dipole axis control solar illumination over the polar cap, modulating both energies of the polar wind and energy transfer efficiencies from the two energy sources.
Degradation of 100‐m‐Scale Rocky Ejecta Craters at the InSight Landing Site on Mars and Implications for Surface Processes and Erosion Rates in the Hesperian and Amazonian
Authors: Sweeney J. , Warner N. H. , Ganti V. , Golombek M. P. , Lamb M. P. , Fergason R. , Kirk R.
Published: September 2018

Rocky ejecta craters (RECs) at the Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy and Heat Transport (InSight) landing site on Elysium Planitia, Mars, provide constraints on crater modification and rates for the Hesperian and Amazonian. The RECs are between 10 m and 1.2 km in diameter and exhibit five classes of preservation. Class 1 represents pristine craters with sharp rims and abundant ejected rocks. From Classes 2 to 5, rims become more subdued, craters are infilled, and the ejecta become discontinuously distributed. High‐Resolution Imaging Science Experiment digital elevation models indicate a maximum depth to diameter ratio of ~0.15, which is lower than pristine models for craters of similar size. The low ratio is related to the presence of a loosely consolidated regolith and early‐stage eolian infill. Rim heights have an average height to diameter ratio of ~0.03 for the most pristine class. The size‐frequency distribution of RECs, plotted using cumulative and differential methods, indicates that crater classes within the diameter range of 200 m to 1.2 km are separated by ~100 to 200 Myr. Smaller craters degrade faster, with classes separated by <100 Myr. Rim erosion can be entirely modeled by nonlinear diffusional processes using the calculated timescales and a constant diffusivity of 8 × 10−7 m2/year for craters 200 to 500 m in diameter. Diffusion models only partly capture depth‐related degradation, which requires eolian infill. Depth degradation and rim erosion rates are 10−2 to 10−3 m/Myr, respectively. The rates are consistent with relatively slow modification that is typical of the last two epochs of Martian history.
Numerical Estimation of Agricultural Raised Bed Microwave Disinfection
Authors: Casu Sergio , Fanti Alessandro , Lodi Matteo Bruno , Spanu Michele , Desogus Francesco , Mazzarella Giuseppe
Published: September 2018

The use of electromagnetic fields to solve issues related to agriculture is an interesting, cost‐effective, and eco‐friendly possibility to be explored. One of the most promising applications is the disinfection of soils obtained by microwave‐induced heating. This work deals with the nonlinear computational modeling of such microwave heating of soils in metal raised bed cultivations within a greenhouse. By modeling the dielectric properties of soil, in terms of composition, moisture content, and actual temperature, and accounting for the exact thermal and electromagnetic conditions in raised beds inside the greenhouse, several realistic and nonlinear multiphysics simulations were carried out. The disinfection is directed to fungi, such as Sclerotium rolfsii, and weeds, for example, ryegrass and fleabane. The effectiveness of the proposed procedure is quantified and critically discussed exploiting analytical thermal death kinetics of soilborne plant pathogens and compared to the solarization technique.
Transcription coactivator Cited1 acts as an inducer of trophoblast-like state from mouse embryonic stem cells through the activation of BMP signaling
Authors: Xu Yanli , Luo Xinlong , Fang Zhuoqing , Zheng Xiaofeng , Zeng Yanwu , Zhu Chaonan , Gu Junjie , Tang Fan , Hu Yanqin , Hu Guang , Jin Ying , Li Hui
Published: September 2018

Trophoblast lineages, precursors of the placenta, are essential for post-implantation embryo survival. However, the regulatory network of trophoblast development remains incompletely understood. Here, we report that Cited1, a transcription coactivator, is a robust inducer for trophoblast-like state from mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Depletion of Cited1 in ESCs compromises the trophoblast lineage specification induced by BMP signaling. In contrast, overexpression of Cited1 in ESCs induces a trophoblast-like state with elevated expression of trophoblast marker genes in vitro and generation of trophoblastic tumors in vivo. Furthermore, global transcriptome profile analysis indicates that ectopic Cited1 activates a trophoblast-like transcriptional program in ESCs. Mechanistically, Cited1 interacts with Bmpr2 and Smad4 to activate the Cited1–Bmpr2–Smad1/5/8 axis in the cytoplasm and Cited1–Smad4–p300 complexes in the nucleus, respectively. Collectively, our results show that Cited1 plays an important role in regulating trophoblast lineage specification through activating the BMP signaling pathway.
Neuropeptide Initiated Mast Cell Activation by Transcutaneous Electrical Acupoint Stimulation of Acupoint LI4 in Rats
Authors: Chen Li-Zhen , Kan Yu , Zhang Zhi-Yun , Wang Yi-Li , Zhang Xiao-Ning , Wang Xiao-Yu , He Wei , Jing Xiang-Hong
Published: September 2018

Transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) has been consistently used clinically for its ease of operation, non-invasiveness and painlessness, in contrast to the characteristics of inserted needles. However, the mechanism remains unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the local response of TEAS at Hegu acupoint (LI4). Immunohistochemistry was used to measure the expression of tryptase-positive mast cells, neuropeptides of the calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P (SP) in LI4. Mast cells were also labelled with serotonin (5-HT), neurokinin-1 receptor (NK-1R) and toluidine blue. The results showed that cutaneous CGRP and SP immune-positive (CGRP-IP or SP-IP) nerve fibres in LI4 were more highly expressed. There were high degrees of mast cell aggregation and degranulation with release of 5-HT near the CGRP-IP or SP-IP nerve fibres and blood vessels after TEAS. The degranulation of mast cells (MCs) was accompanied by expression of NK-1R after TEAS. Either mast cell membrane stabilizer (Disodium cromoglycate) or NK-1R antagonist (RP 67580) diminished the accumulation and degranulation of MCs induced by TEAS. Taken together, the findings demonstrated that TEAS induced sensory nerve fibres to express CGRP and SP, which then bound to the NK-1R on MCs, after which MCs degranulated and released 5-HT, resulting in TEAS-initiated acupuncture-like signals.
Regional Differences in mRNA and lncRNA Expression Profiles in Non-Failing Human Atria and Ventricles
Authors: Johnson Eric K. , Matkovich Scot J. , Nerbonne Jeanne M.
Published: September 2018

The four chambers of the human heart play distinct roles in the maintenance of normal cardiac function, and are differentially affected by inherited/acquired cardiovascular disease. To probe the molecular determinants of these functional differences, we examined mRNA and lncRNA expression profiles in the left (LA) and right (RA) atria, the left (LV) and right (RV) ventricles, and the interventricular septum (IVS) of non-failing human hearts (N = 8). Analysis of paired atrial and ventricular samples (n = 40) identified 5,747 mRNAs and 2,794 lncRNAs that were differentially (>1.5 fold; FDR < 0.05) expressed. The largest differences were observed in comparisons between the atrial (RA/LA) and ventricular (RV/LV/IVS) samples. In every case (e.g., LA vs LV, LA vs RV, etc.), >2,300 mRNAs and >1,200 lncRNAs, corresponding to 17–28% of the total transcripts, were differentially expressed. Heterogeneities in mRNA/lncRNA expression profiles in the LA and RA, as well as in the LV, RV and IVS, were also revealed, although the numbers of differentially expressed transcripts were substantially smaller. Gender differences in mRNA and lncRNA expression profiles were also evident in non-failing human atria and ventricles. Gene ontology classification of differentially expressed gene sets revealed chamber-specific enrichment of numerous signaling pathways.
Ginseng oligopeptides protect against irradiation-induced immune dysfunction and intestinal injury
Authors: He Li-Xia , Zhang Zhao-Feng , Zhao Jian , Li Lin , Xu Teng , Bin Sun  , Ren Jin-Wei , Liu Rui , Chen Qi-He , Wang Jun-Bo , Salem Mohamed M. , Pettinato Giuseppe , Zhou Jin-Rong , Li Yong
Published: September 2018

Intestinal injury and immune dysfunction are commonly encountered after irradiation therapy. While the curative abilities of ginseng root have been reported in prior studies, there is little known regarding its role in immunoregulation of intestinal repairability in cancer patients treated with irradiation. Our current study aims to closely examine the protective effects of ginseng-derived small molecule oligopeptides (Panax ginseng C. A. Mey.) (GOP) against irradiation-induced immune dysfunction and subsequent intestinal injury, using in vitro and in vivo models. Expectedly, irradiation treatment resulted in increased intestinal permeability along with mucosal injury in both Caco-2 cells and mice, probably due to disruption of the intestinal epithelial barrier, leading to high plasma lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines levels. However, when the cells were treated with GOP, this led to diminished concentration of plasma LPS and cytokines (IL-1 and TNF-α), suggesting its dampening effect on inflammatory and oxidative stress, and potential role in restoring normal baseline intestinal permeability. Moreover, the Caco-2 cells treated with GOP showed high trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and low FITC-dextran paracellular permeability when compared to the control group. This could be explained by the higher levels of tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and Occludin) expression along with reduced expression of the apoptosis-related proteins (Bax and Caspase-3) noticed in the GOP-treated cells, highlighting its role in preserving intestinal permeability, through prevention of their degradation while maintaining normal levels of expression. Further confirmatory in vivo data showed that GOP-treated mice exhibited high concentrations of lymphocytes (CD3+, CD4+, CD8+) in the intestine, to rescue the irradiation-induced damage and restore baseline intestinal integrity. Therefore, we propose that GOP can be used as an adjuvant therapy to attenuate irradiation-induced immune dysfunction and intestinal injury in cancer patients.
Prompting peroxidase-like activity of gold nanorod composites by localized surface plasmon resonance for fast colorimetric detection of prostate specific antigen
Authors: Tan Fang , Yang Yan , Xie Xiaoxue , Wang Linqian , Deng Keqin , Xia Xiaodong , Yang Xiumei , Huang Haowen
Published: September 2018

The localized plasmon oscillations produced by the interaction of incident light with surface electrons in the conductive particles depend on their composition, size, geometry and dielectric environment.
How an electric field can modulate the metal ion selectivity of protein binding sites: insights from DFT/PCM calculations
Authors: Dudev Todor , Ilieva Sonia , Doudeva Lyudmila
Published: September 2018

An electric field (internal or external) is a potent force that can modulate the metal selectivity of a protein binding site.
A promising PMHS/PEO blend polymer electrolyte for all-solid-state lithium ion batteries
Authors: Li Yi-Jing , Fan Chao-Ying , Zhang Jing-Ping , Wu Xing-Long
Published: September 2018

A novel PEO based polymer electrolyte prepared by the solution casting technique for use in all-solid-state lithium ion batteries.
Three new Strandberg-type phenylphosphomolybdate supports for immobilizing horseradish peroxidase and their catalytic oxidation performances
Authors: Feng Shu-Li , Lu Ying , Zhang Yue-Xian , Su Fang , Sang Xiao-Jing , Zhang Lan-Cui , You Wan-Sheng , Zhu Zai-Ming
Published: September 2018

Three new Strandberg-type polyoxometalate TM-(PhP)2Mo5 supports for immobilizing HRP showed high adsorption capacity and good catalytic oxidation activity.
Two-photon fluorescent polydopamine nanodots for CAR-T cell function verification and tumor cell/tissue detection
Authors: Ma Baojin , Liu Feng , Zhang Shan , Duan Jiazhi , Kong Ying , Li Zhao , Tang Dongqi , Wang Wenjuan , Ge Shaohua , Tang Wei , Liu Hong
Published: September 2018

OPDA nanodots were used to verify CAR-T cells function and efficiency through visible fluorescence. PDA nanodots can in situ convert to OPDA by the oxidation of ROS in cells to identify the tumor and normal cells/tissues.
Role of annealing atmosphere on the crystal structure and composition of tetrahedrite–tennantite alloy nanoparticles
Authors: McClary Scott A. , Balow Robert B. , Agrawal Rakesh
Published: September 2018

Tetrahedrite–tennantite alloy nanoparticles are synthesized and heat treated under various atmospheres to direct the final phase and composition.
A multiscale hierarchical architecture of a SiC whiskers–graphite nanosheets/polypyrrole ternary composite for enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption
Authors: Dong Shun , Zhang Xinghong , Zhang Wenzheng , Han Jiecai , Hu Ping
Published: September 2018

A multiscale hierarchical architecture of a SiC whiskers–graphite nanosheets/polypyrrole ternary composite for enhanced electromagnetic wave absorption.
Defect-controlled electrocaloric effect in PbZrO3thin films
Authors: Wu Ming , Song Dongsheng , Vats Gaurav , Ning Shoucong , Guo Mengyao , Zhang Dawei , Xue Deqing , Pennycook Stephen J , Lou Xiaojie
Published: September 2018

The structure and elemental distribution of PbZrO3thin films are investigated. Defect controlled electrocaloric effects are discussed.
High‐precision differential time integrator based on time adder
Authors: Zhu Kai , Feng Jianhua , Lyu Yinxuan , He Ai
Published: September 2018

A high‐precision time integrator is presented whose output is the accumulation of sequence of time inputs. A novel time adder with time‐domain differential structure is proposed to avoid common‐mode errors such as supply noise and leakage current. The performance under various process, voltage and temperature conditions is examined in detail. By using two time adders in parallel, a differential synchronous time integrator is proposed, which is easier to cascade with other time‐mode arithmetic circuit. Implemented in 65 nm 1.2 V CMOS technology, the proposed time integrator achieves a gain of 27.97 dB with a 317 kHz 30 ps peak‐to‐peak sinusoidal input, and consumes with 50 MHz sampling rate. The experimental results confirm the integration operation is realised properly and accurately.
Real‐time parameter estimation based intelligent controllers for AGC operation under varying power system dynamic conditions
Authors: Pathak Nikhil , Verma Ashu , Bhatti Terlochan Singh , Nasiruddin Ibraheem
Published: September 2018

In this paper, real‐time parameter estimation based intelligent controller has been proposed for the optimum automatic generation control (AGC) operation of multi‐area interconnected power system. In earlier AGC studies, supplementary controllers were designed for presumed power system dynamic conditions, such as constant system loadings, fixed values of power system dynamic model parameters. However in practical AGC system, these power system model parameters, namely frequency bias parameter B, steam chest and reheater time constants & , power system time and gain constants & , load sensitivity factor D, etc., continuously varies depending upon the consumer's load demand and number of power generating units participating in AGC. The controller's operation no longer remains optimum as these system parameters changes from their initial values. In view of the above, parameter estimation based real‐time intelligent controller has been designed which automatically adjusts its controller gain settings to its optimum conditions in real‐time after sensing changes in power system model parameters. At first, different methodologies are presented to estimate dominant power system model parameters. Then, presented methodologies are utilised in the design of intelligent controller for AGC system. The proposed controller is successfully tested upon IEEE 39 bus system with various case studies.
Prediction and control of transient stability using system integrity protection schemes
Authors: Das Sayari , Ketan Panigrahi Bijaya
Published: September 2018

Prediction of the transient stability in real‐time can be a boon in preventing the occurrence of catastrophic events in a particular area that could potentially affect the entire grid and cause blackouts. Synchronised voltage angle measurements procured from the installed phasor measurement units in the network have been used to devise an index for assessment of transient stability in the system. The behaviour of the trend of the acceleration at the instant of the critical clearing angle has been used in this study as the basis for differentiating between a stable and an unstable power swing. Upon detection of an unstable condition, the generator, which is most likely to be going out of step is detected, and appropriate control action is suggested for mitigating the predicted out of step condition. Moreover, the distance relay maloperations caused during a stable power swing can also be a reason for triggering cascading outages. Suitable remedial measures to avoid such maloperations of the distance relay have been proposed. The efficacy of the proposed philosophy has been tested on a single machine infinite bus system, WSCC‐9 bus system and New England 39 bus system modelled in Power Factory/DIgSILENT.
Modelling and allocation planning of voltage‐sourced converters to improve the rooftop PV hosting capacity and energy efficiency of distribution networks
Authors: Lakshmi Shubh , Ganguly Sanjib
Published: September 2018

This paper presents a planning approach for improving the rooftop photovoltaic (PV) hosting capacity and energy efficiency of distribution networks with the placement of voltage‐sourced converters (VSCs). The PV hosting capacity (PVHC) is the maximum amount of PV generation that a distribution network can accommodate without deteriorating the operational performance of the network. The PVHC is derived under the constraint of a maximum allowable network power loss. Two different types of VSCs are modelled for the placement in distribution networks to improve the PVHC. These are series and shunt VSCs. The series VSC is designed to inject a series voltage in quadrature with the line current to maintain a constant bus voltage. The shunt VSC is designed to improve the load power factor to unity by injecting a shunt compensating current in quadrature with the bus voltage. The objective function is to maximise the PVHC to obtain the maximum PV generation capacity to be integrated in each bus. The particle swarm optimisation is used as a solution approach. The results show that the placements of VSCs improve the PVHC. This also reduces energy loss when there is no PV generation available.
Validation of a PMU‐based fault location identification method for smart distribution network with photovoltaics using real‐time data
Authors: Usman Muhammad Usama , Faruque Md. Omar
Published: September 2018

A fault location (FL) identification method for smart distribution network is presented and validated using a digital real‐time simulator (DRTS). The method can accurately identify the FL in a distribution network in the presence of distributed generation (DG). This method is based on state estimation (SE) algorithm which uses real‐time data from simulated phasor measurement units (PMUs), placed in the distribution network. SE needs the fault currents of the generators and voltage measurements of an optimal number of nodes to perform the FL algorithm. The method was validated using the IEEE 37 node test feeder with DGs. PMUs are placed on the real‐time model of the system. The real‐time model was implemented on a DRTS which streams phasor data over the Internet using C37.118 protocol. OpenPDC is used to collect real‐time PMU data coming from the DRTS. Microsoft SQL is used as a database management server to store data coming from OpenPDC. In the last step of the FL process, data stored in OpenPDC is fed into a FL identification algorithm to locate the fault. Both balanced and unbalanced fault types are applied to different nodes and an accurate estimation of the FL (over 90% of the cases) is achieved.
Salient region detection using feature extraction in the non‐subsampled contourlet domain
Authors: Rezaei Abkenar Masoumeh , Sadreazami Hamidreza , Ahmad M. Omair
Published: September 2018

The human visual system is attracted to the most dominant part of the image which is called salient region. There has been a surge of interest in the past few years to efficiently detect the salient regions of images. In this study, a new salient region detection method is proposed using the non‐subsampled contourlet transform. It is known that this transform is capable of providing a multiscale, multi‐directional and translation invariant decomposition of images. The proposed saliency detection method is realised by extracting various local and global features from the non‐subsampled contourlet coefficients of the colour channels. A saliency map is obtained based on a linear combination of the local features and the distribution of the global features. In order to provide a better preservation of the structure and boundary of the objects and to obtain a more uniformly highlighted salient region, the saliency map is abstracted using an optimisation framework. Several experiments are conducted on sets of natural images to evaluate the performance of the proposed method. The results show that the performance of the proposed method is superior to that of the other existing methods in terms of precision‐recall performance, F‐measure, and mean absolute error values.
Single‐pixel compressive imaging based on motion compensation
Authors: Wang Zelong , Zhu Jubo
Published: September 2018

Compressive sensing (CS) theory enables single‐pixel compressive imaging (SPCI) popular in optical remote sensing imaging, since single‐pixel imager not only realises the acquisition and recovery of sparse images at the sampling rates significantly below the classical Nyquist rate, but also makes use of special detectors to improve sensitivity, dynamic range, spectral range and so on. However, its requirement of static imaging condition for the time‐sequential measurements makes it difficult to apply in remote sensing, since the imaging platform is always in motion relative to the imaging scene. In this study, the authors develop a new method for SPCI on moving platform in optical remote sensing. Instead of ignoring the motion during sampling, the proposed method first builds the compressive sampling model based on motion compensation during sampling, and then reconstructs the image by frame‐by‐frame recovery method and joint recovery method, respectively, in the framework of CS theory, where the recovery condition is also analysed. To validate the basic principle and the physical feasibility of motion compensation, the authors implement the numerical simulations and optical experiments, where different conditions are exploited sufficiently. In addition, the proposed method for SPCI can be also extended into other applications, such as 360° annular imaging, multi‐pixel compressive imaging as well as super‐resolution imaging.
Methodology for P&C cyber security studies using real‐time digital simulation
Authors: Li Jianing , Yang Conghuan , Kong Dechao , Mann Stuart , Zhang Xiao‐Ping
Published: September 2018

With the smart grid development, advancements in deeply integrated information and communication technology (ICT) provide enhanced system awareness, effective decision‐making support and high‐performance protection and control (P&C) to improve operational reliably and stability of the modern power systems. To manage the risks relevant to the existing industrial P&C systems, it is of high necessity to develop a methodology of cyber security testing for industrial P&C systems. This methodology will be rolled out to continue to evaluate the risks for the next‐generation industrial P&C systems when new ICTs are introduced e.g. IEC 61850. This study summarises the main purpose, scope of work of an innovation project in collaboration with National Grid. This on‐going project is to develop such a methodology using the state‐of‐art real‐time digital simulation to conduct hardware‐in‐the‐loop testing.
Multiplicity and clustering in Taurus star forming region
Authors: Joncour Isabelle , Duchêne Gaspard , Moraux Estelle , Motte Frédérique
Published: September 2018

Context. Multiplicity and clustering of young pre-main sequence stars appear as critical clues to understand and constrain the star formation process. Taurus is the archetypical example of the most quiescent star forming regions that may still retain primeval signatures of star formation.

Aims. This work identifies local overdense stellar structures as a critical scale between wide pairs and loose groups in Taurus.

Methods. Using the density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise (dbscan) algorithm, and setting its free parameters based on the one-point correlation function and the k-nearest neighbor statistics, we have extracted reliably overdense structures from the sky-projected spatial distribution of stars.

Results. Nearly half of the entire stellar population in Taurus is found to be concentrated in 20 very dense, tiny and prolate regions called NESTs (for Nested Elementary STructures). They are regularly spaced (≈2 pc) and mainly oriented along the principal gas filaments axes. Each NEST contains between four and 23 stars. Inside NESTs, the surface density of stars may be as high as 2500 pc−2 and the mean value is 340 pc−2. Nearly half (11) of these NESTs contain about 75% of the class 0 and I objects. The balance between Class I, II, and, III fraction within the NESTs suggests that they may be ordered as an evolutionary temporal scheme, some of them getting infertile with time, while other still giving birth to young stars. We have inferred that only 20% of stars in Taurus do not belong to any kind of stellar groups (either multiple system, ultra wide pairs or NESTs). The mass-size relation for stellar NESTs is very close to the Bonnor–Ebert expectation. The range in mass is about the same as that of dense molecular cores. The distribution in size is bimodal peaking at 12.5 and 50 kAU and the distribution of the number of YSOs in NESTs as a function of size exhibits two regimes.

Conclusions. We propose that the NESTs in their two size regimes represent the spatial imprints of stellar distribution at birth as they may have emerged within few millions years from their natal cloud either from a single core or from a chain of cores. We have identified them as the preferred sites of star formation in Taurus. These NESTs are the regions of highest stellar density and intermediate spatial scale structures between ultra-wide pairs and loose groups.
Upper Extremity Pain and Pitching Mechanics in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I Softball
Authors: Oliver Gretchen , Gilmer Gabrielle , Anz Adam , Friesen Kenzie , Brittain Abigail , Goodlett Michael , Dugas Jeffrey , Andrews James
Published: September 2018

The purpose of this study was to evaluate pitching mechanics between female softball pitchers with upper extremity pain and those without upper extremity pain. Specifically, the trunk, shoulder and elbow kinematics and shoulder kinetics during the change-up softball pitch were examined. Fifty-five collegiate softball pitchers participated, divided into those with upper extremity pain (20.0±1.3 yrs.; 174.4±6.9 cm; 82.9±12.4 kg; 11.1±2.6 yrs. of experience; n=23) and those who were pain-free (19.9±1.4 yrs.; 173.8±6.9 cm; 81.4±12.5 kg; 10.0±2.5 yrs. of experience; n=32). Pitching mechanics were obtained via the trakSTAR™ electromagnetic tracking system (Ascension Technologies, Inc., Burlington, VT, USA). Mann-Whitney U tests revealed significant differences in shoulder horizontal abduction at foot contact (p=0.014, U=153, Z=2.450) and trunk lateral flexion at ball release (p=0.012, U=150, Z=–2.515); and between shoulder distraction force at ball release (p=0.034, U=168, Z=–2.124). The pain group illustrated greater shoulder horizontal abduction at foot contact, less trunk lateral flexion towards the throwing side at ball release, and greater shoulder distraction at ball release than the pain-free group. The differences in trunk and shoulder kinematics, and shoulder kinetics between groups allows for insight into further studies examining injury pervasiveness in softball pitching.
Prevalence and Precipitating Factors of Migraine in Secondary School Students in Thailand
Authors: Saengow Vitchayaporn , Tangcheewinsirikul Sirikarn
Published: September 2018

Introduction Migraine is the most common primary headache in children which leads to disturbance of school performance and impaired quality of life. The prevalence of migraine is different between countries and ethnicities; this study determines the prevalence and precipitating factors of migraine in Thailand.

Method This cross-sectional school-based study was conducted in Nakhon Ratchasima. The children aged between 12 and 18 years from four secondary schools were selected by stratified randomization method. The screening questionnaire and directed interview with physical examination were done and migraine was diagnosed based on the criteria of International Classification of Headache Disorders III. The prevalence of migraine was identified and baseline characteristic of disease with precipitating factors was evaluated.

Results A total of 2,744 students aged between 12 and 18 years (900 males, 1,844 females) were recruited; mean age was 14.3 ± 1.75 years. Fifty-five students were diagnosed with migraine (20 males [36.36%], 35 females [63.64%], mean age: 15.1 ± 1.6 years). The prevalence of migraine was 1.98%. Migraine prevalence was predominant in female adolescents with a common feature being migraine without aura. The important precipitating factor in this study was stress from academic achievement.

Conclusion Migraine is a common disease in children and under-recognized in school students, and stress is the major precipitating factor.