bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Qom Alumni in Indonesia: Their Role in the Shiʿi Community
Authors: Zulkifli
Published: February 2018

This chapter discusses how returnees from al Mustafa International University, including those from the International Centre for Islamic Studies, its preceding institution, have played a significant role in the development of the Shi'i community in Sunni dominated Indonesia. Pursuing Islamic education at Qom is a post-1979 phenomenon made popular by al Habsyi, an Indonesian scholar of Arab descent, who gained the trust of religious leaders in the Islamic Republic of Iran. Following a detailed account of the educational background of Indonesian students who went to Qom, the chapter illustrates the activities of the graduates in their home towns, such as their creation of the Association of al Mustafa International University Alumni, missionary activities through various Shi'i institutions, and educational activities in religious schools, including the Islamic College Jakarta, a branch of the university.
An Improved Bacterial-Foraging Optimization-Based Machine Learning Framework for Predicting the Severity of Somatization Disorder
Authors: Lv Xinen , Chen Huiling , Zhang Qian , Li Xujie , Huang Hui , Wang Gang
Published: February 2018

It is of great clinical significance to establish an accurate intelligent model to diagnose the somatization disorder of community correctional personnel. In this study, a novel machine learning framework is proposed to predict the severity of somatization disorder in community correction personnel. The core of this framework is to adopt the improved bacterial foraging optimization (IBFO) to optimize two key parameters (penalty coefficient and the kernel width) of a kernel extreme learning machine (KELM) and build an IBFO-based KELM (IBFO-KELM) for the diagnosis of somatization disorder patients. The main innovation point of the IBFO-KELM model is the introduction of opposition-based learning strategies in traditional bacteria foraging optimization, which increases the diversity of bacterial species, keeps a uniform distribution of individuals of initial population, and improves the convergence rate of the BFO optimization process as well as the probability of escaping from the local optimal solution. In order to verify the effectiveness of the method proposed in this study, a 10-fold cross-validation method based on data from a symptom self-assessment scale (SCL-90) is used to make comparison among IBFO-KELM, BFO-KELM (model based on the original bacterial foraging optimization model), GA-KELM (model based on genetic algorithm), PSO-KELM (model based on particle swarm optimization algorithm) and Grid-KELM (model based on grid search method). The experimental results show that the proposed IBFO-KELM prediction model has better performance than other methods in terms of classification accuracy, Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), sensitivity and specificity. It can distinguish very well between severe somatization disorder and mild somatization and assist the psychological doctor with clinical diagnosis.
Detection of Parameter Change in Random Coefficient Integer-Valued Autoregressive Models
Authors: Kang Jiwon
Published: February 2018

This paper considers the problem of testing for parameter change in random coefficient integer-valued autoregressive models. To overcome some size distortions of the existing estimate-based cumulative sum (CUSUM) test, we suggest estimating function-based test and residual-based CUSUM test. More specifically, we employ the estimating function of the conditional least squares estimator. Under the regularity conditions and the null hypothesis, we derive their limiting distributions, respectively. Simulation results demonstrate the validity of the proposed tests. A real data analysis is performed on the polio incidence data.
Stationary-Frame Modeling of VSC Based on Current-Balancing Driven Internal Voltage Motion for Current Control Timescale Dynamic Analysis
Authors: Yan Yabing , Yuan Xiaoming , Hu Jiabing
Published: February 2018

High-frequency oscillations caused by voltage source converters (VSCs) are constantly emerging in power systems with the increasing penetration of renewable energies. VSC models in current control timescale play a pivotal role in the analysis of these oscillation issues. Conventional VSC models show few physical mechanisms of VSC dynamics during system oscillations. Hence, this paper proposes a VSC model from the viewpoint of its internal voltage (namely, VSC output voltage), which is driven by current balancing between the current reference and the feedback in a stationary frame. The proposed model can be used to study VSC dynamic characteristics in an intuitionistic physical way. Based on the proposed model, it is found that VSC current reference in a stationary frame varies with internal voltage dynamic due to the essence of active and reactive current control in a current control timescale. Additionally, in a stationary frame, the dynamic relation between internal voltage and error current embodies a generalized integrating characteristic with adaptable center frequency determined by a phase-locked loop, which guarantees the zero steady state error of VSC current control. Comparisons of simulations between the proposed model and a switch-based model validates the effectiveness of the proposed model.
Changes in Lignin Chemistry of Switchgrass due to Delignification by Sodium Hydroxide Pretreatment
Authors: Jung Woochul , Savithri Dhanalekshmi , Sharma-Shivappa Ratna , Kolar Praveen
Published: February 2018

Switchgrass was pretreated with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) at various concentrations and pretreatment times to investigate how delignification caused by NaOH affects its lignin chemistry. NaOH resulted in significant delignification ranging from 44.0 to 84.6% depending on pretreatment intensity. While there was no significant glucan loss due to NaOH pretreatment, higher NaOH concentrations removed xylan by up to 28.3%. Nitrobenzene oxidation (NBO) was used to study changes in lignin chemistry, and indicated that at higher NaOH concentrations, the amount of 4-hydroxygenzaldehyde (Hy) degraded from p-hydroxyphenyl propanol (H) lignin units was significantly reduced (p < 0.05). However, amounts of syringic (SA) and vanillic (VA) acids generated from syringyl (S) and guaiacyl (G) degradation were greater at higher NaOH concentration. S/G ratio (=0.62 raw switchgrass) did not significantly (p > 0.05) change with 15 min pretreatment, but it increased to 0.75 and 0.72, respectively, with 30 and 60 min pretreatments (p < 0.05). Increase in NaOH concentration did not significantly (p > 0.05) change S/G ratio, but H/G ratio (=0.48 raw switchgrass) decreased significantly to 0.14 regardless of pretreatment times. Overall, the H unit was found to be more susceptible to NaOH than S and G unit monolignols. Though changes in lignin chemistry due to NaOH concentration were observed, their impact on cellulolytic enzyme action during hydrolysis could not be fully understood. Further studies on lignin isolation may help to determine how these changes in lignin chemistry by NaOH impact cellulolytic enzymes.
Development of a Cooperative Braking System for Front-Wheel Drive Electric Vehicles
Authors: Zhao Di , Chu Liang , Xu Nan , Sun Chengwei , Xu Yanwu
Published: February 2018

Most electric vehicles adopt cooperative braking systems that can blend friction braking torque with regenerative braking torque to achieve higher energy efficiency while maintaining a certain braking performance and driving safety. This paper presented a new cooperative regenerative braking system that contained a fully-decoupled hydraulic braking mechanism based on a modified electric stability control system. The pressure control algorithm and brake force distribution strategy were also discussed. Dynamic models of a front wheel drive electric car equipped with this system and a simulation platform with a driver model and driving cycles were established. Tests to evaluate the braking performance and energy regeneration were simulated and analyzed on this platform and the simulation results showed the feasibility and effectiveness of this system.
Covalent Strategies for Targeting Messenger and Non-Coding RNAs: An Updated Review on siRNA, miRNA and antimiR Conjugates
Authors: Grijalvo Santiago , Alagia Adele , Jorge Andreia , Eritja Ramon
Published: February 2018

Oligonucleotide-based therapy has become an alternative to classical approaches in the search of novel therapeutics involving gene-related diseases. Several mechanisms have been described in which demonstrate the pivotal role of oligonucleotide for modulating gene expression. Antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and more recently siRNAs and miRNAs have made important contributions either in reducing aberrant protein levels by sequence-specific targeting messenger RNAs (mRNAs) or restoring the anomalous levels of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that are involved in a good number of diseases including cancer. In addition to formulation approaches which have contributed to accelerate the presence of ASOs, siRNAs and miRNAs in clinical trials; the covalent linkage between non-viral vectors and nucleic acids has also added value and opened new perspectives to the development of promising nucleic acid-based therapeutics. This review article is mainly focused on the strategies carried out for covalently modifying siRNA and miRNA molecules. Examples involving cell-penetrating peptides (CPPs), carbohydrates, polymers, lipids and aptamers are discussed for the synthesis of siRNA conjugates whereas in the case of miRNA-based drugs, this review article makes special emphasis in using antagomiRs, locked nucleic acids (LNAs), peptide nucleic acids (PNAs) as well as nanoparticles. The biomedical applications of siRNA and miRNA conjugates are also discussed.
Prevalence and Correlates of Cyberbullying Perpetration. Findings from a German Representative Student Survey
Authors: Bergmann Marie , Baier Dirk
Published: February 2018

Based on a survey of 9512 ninth-grade students conducted in Lower Saxony in 2013, this paper examines the prevalence of cyberbullying perpetration and the correlates of this behavior. Binary logistic multilevel regression was used in order to analyze correlates of sexual and psychological cyberbully perpetration. In the preceding semester, 2.4% of the adolescents were perpetrators of psychological cyberbullying and 0.4% bullied someone online sexually. Low levels of empathy, frequent consumption of violent media, and being victims of aggressive online behaviors are correlated with the risk that a child will become a bully. Female adolescents are less likely than boys to engage in sexual cyberbullying perpetration, but they are more likely to engage in psychological cyberbullying perpetration. Only a small share of adolescents engage in sexual and psychological cyberbullying perpetration. Both behaviors differ in their correlates, however being a victim of aggressive online behaviors increase the risk for perpetration of both behaviors, respectively.
Does Walkability Contribute to Geographic Variation in Psychosocial Distress? A Spatial Analysis of 91,142 Members of the 45 and Up Study in Sydney, Australia
Authors: Mayne Darren , Morgan Geoffrey , Jalaludin Bin , Bauman Adrian
Published: February 2018

Walkability describes the capacity of the built environment to promote walking, and has been proposed as a potential focus for community-level mental health planning. We evaluated this possibility by examining the contribution of area-level walkability to variation in psychosocial distress in a population cohort at spatial scales comparable to those used for regional planning in Sydney, Australia. Data on psychosocial distress were analysed for 91,142 respondents to the 45 and Up Study baseline survey between January 2006 and April 2009. We fit conditional auto regression models at the postal area level to obtain smoothed “disease maps” for psychosocial distress, and assess its association with area-level walkability after adjusting for individual- and area-level factors. Prevalence of psychosocial distress was 7.8%; similar for low (7.9%), low-medium (7.9%), medium-high (8.0%), and high (7.4%) walkability areas; and decreased with reducing postal area socioeconomic disadvantage: 12.2% (most), 9.3%, 7.5%, 5.9%, and 4.7% (least). Unadjusted disease maps indicated strong geographic clustering of psychosocial distress with 99.0% of excess prevalence due to unobserved and spatially structured factors, which was reduced to 55.3% in fully adjusted maps. Spatial and unstructured variance decreased by 97.3% and 39.8% after adjusting for individual-level factors, and another 2.3% and 4.2% with the inclusions of area-level factors. Excess prevalence of psychosocial distress in postal areas was attenuated in adjusted models but remained spatially structured. Postal area prevalence of high psychosocial distress is geographically clustered in Sydney, but is unrelated to postal area walkability. Area-level socioeconomic disadvantage makes a small contribution to this spatial structure; however, community-level mental health planning will likely deliver greatest benefits by focusing on individual-level contributors to disease burden and inequality associated with psychosocial distress.
Identification of Pancreatic Injury in Patients with Elevated Amylase or Lipase Level Using a Decision Tree Classifier: A Cross-Sectional Retrospective Analysis in a Level I Trauma Center
Authors: Rau Cheng-Shyuan , Wu Shao-Chun , Chien Peng-Chen , Kuo Pao-Jen , Chen Yi-Chun , Hsieh Hsiao-Yun , Hsieh Ching-Hua , Liu Hang-Tsung
Published: February 2018

Background: In trauma patients, pancreatic injury is rare; however, if undiagnosed, it is associated with high morbidity and mortality rates. Few predictive models are available for the identification of pancreatic injury in trauma patients with elevated serum pancreatic enzymes. In this study, we aimed to construct a model for predicting pancreatic injury using a decision tree (DT) algorithm, along with data obtained from a population-based trauma registry in a Level I trauma center. Methods: A total of 991 patients with elevated serum levels of amylase (>137 U/L) or lipase (>51 U/L), including 46 patients with pancreatic injury and 865 without pancreatic injury between January 2009 and December 2016, were allocated in a ratio of 7:3 to training (n = 642) or test (n = 269) sets. Using the data on patient and injury characteristics as well as laboratory data, the DT algorithm with Classification and Regression Tree (CART) analysis was performed based on the Gini impurity index, using the rpart function in the rpart package in R. Results: Among the trauma patients with elevated amylase or lipase levels, three groups of patients were identified as having a high risk of pancreatic injury, using the DT model. These included (1) 69% of the patients with lipase level ≥306 U/L; (2) 79% of the patients with lipase level between 154 U/L and 305 U/L and shock index (SI) ≥ 0.72; and (3) 80% of the patients with lipase level <154 U/L with abdomen injury, glucose level <158 mg/dL, amylase level <90 U/L, and neutrophil percentage ≥76%; they had all sustained pancreatic injury. With all variables in the model, the DT achieved an accuracy of 97.9% (sensitivity of 91.4% and specificity of 98.3%) for the training set. In the test set, the DT achieved an accuracy of 93.3%, sensitivity of 72.7%, and specificity of 94.2%. Conclusions: We established a DT model using lipase, SI, and additional conditions (injury to the abdomen, glucose level <158 mg/dL, amylase level <90 U/L, and neutrophils ≥76%) as important nodes to predict three groups of patients with a high risk of pancreatic injury. The proposed decision-making algorithm may help in identifying pancreatic injury among trauma patients with elevated serum amylase or lipase levels.
Seasonal and Spatial Variability of Anthropogenic and Natural Factors Influencing Groundwater Quality Based on Source Apportionment
Authors: Guo Xueru , Zuo Rui , Meng Li , Wang Jinsheng , Teng Yanguo , Liu Xin , Chen Minhua
Published: February 2018

Globally, groundwater resources are being deteriorated by rapid social development. Thus, there is an urgent need to assess the combined impacts of natural and enhanced anthropogenic sources on groundwater chemistry. The aim of this study was to identify seasonal characteristics and spatial variations in anthropogenic and natural effects, to improve the understanding of major hydrogeochemical processes based on source apportionment. 34 groundwater points located in a riverside groundwater resource area in northeast China were sampled during the wet and dry seasons in 2015. Using principal component analysis and factor analysis, 4 principal components (PCs) were extracted from 16 groundwater parameters. Three of the PCs were water-rock interaction (PC1), geogenic Fe and Mn (PC2), and agricultural pollution (PC3). A remarkable difference (PC4) was organic pollution originating from negative anthropogenic effects during the wet season, and geogenic F enrichment during the dry season. Groundwater exploitation resulted in dramatic depression cone with higher hydraulic gradient around the water source area. It not only intensified dissolution of calcite, dolomite, gypsum, Fe, Mn and fluorine minerals, but also induced more surface water recharge for the water source area. The spatial distribution of the PCs also suggested the center of the study area was extremely vulnerable to contamination by Fe, Mn, COD, and F−.
Stakeholders Opinions on Multi-Use Deep Water Offshore Platform in Hsiao-Liu-Chiu, Taiwan
Authors: Sie Ya-Tsune , Château Pierre-Alexandre , Chang Yang-Chi , Lu Shiau-Yun
Published: February 2018

This paper describes a group model building activity designed to elicit the potential effects a projected multi-use deep water offshore platform may have on its local environment, including ecological and socio-economic issues. As such a platform is proposed for construction around the island of Hsiao-Liu-Chiu, Taiwan, we organized several meetings with the local stakeholders and structured the debates using group modeling methods to promote consensus. During the process, the participants iteratively built and revised a causal-loop diagram that summarizes their opinions. Overall, local stakeholders concluded that a multi-use deep water offshore marine platform might have beneficial effects for Hsiao-Liu-Chiu because more tourists and fish could be attracted by the structure, but they also raised some potential problems regarding the law in Taiwan and the design of the offshore platform, especially its resistance to extreme weather. We report the method used and the main results and insights gained during the process.
Testing Cessation Messages for Cigarette Package Inserts: Findings from a Best/Worst Discrete Choice Experiment
Authors: Thrasher James F. , Islam Farahnaz , Davis Rachel E. , Popova Lucy , Lambert Victoria , Cho Yoo Jin , Salloum Ramzi G. , Louviere Jordan , Hammond David
Published: February 2018

This study assessed smokers’ responses to different smoking cessation topics and imagery for cigarette package inserts. Adult smokers from Canada (n = 1000) participated in three discrete choice experiments (DCEs): DCE 1 assessed five cessation benefit topics and five imagery types; DCE 2 assessed five messages with tips to improve cessation success and five imagery types; DCE 3 assessed four reproductive health benefits of cessation topics and four imagery types. In each DCE, participants evaluated four or five sets of four inserts, selecting the most and least motivating (DCEs 1 & 3) or helpful (DCE 2) for quitting. Linear mixed models regressed choices on insert and smoker characteristics. For DCE 1, the most motivating messages involved novel disease topics and imagery of younger women. For DCE 2, topics of social support, stress reduction and nicotine replacement therapy were selected as most helpful, with no differences by imagery type. For DCE 3, imagery influenced choices more than topic, with imagery of a family or a mom and baby selected as most motivating. Statistically significant interactions for all three experiments indicated that the influence of imagery type on choices depended on the message topic. Messages to promote smoking cessation through cigarette pack inserts should consider specific combinations of message topic and imagery.
LncRNA HOTTIP-Mediated HOXA11 Expression Promotes Cell Growth, Migration and Inhibits Cell Apoptosis in Breast Cancer
Authors: Sun Yanqin , Zeng Chao , Gan Siyuan , Li Hongmei , Cheng Ying , Chen Dongjie , Li Rujia , Zhu Wei
Published: February 2018

As the most common cause of cancer death in women, the pathogenesis of breast cancer still remains unclear. Here, we reported a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA), HOTTIP (HOXA transcript at the distal tip), that may play an important role in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. Using gain-and-loss-of experiments in vitro and in vivo, we observed the marked upregulation of HOTTIP/HOXA11 in the breast cancer cell line, MCF-7, and the downregulation of HOTTIP or HOXA11, which might inhibit cell proliferation and migration but promote cell apoptosis in breast cancer MCF-7 cells. In addition, by further rescue experiments with HOXA11 overexpression, we uncovered a novel potential regulatory mechanism between HOTTIP and one of its physical HOXA clusters, HOXA11. Hence, HOTTIP may mediate, at least partly, HOXA11 expression involved in cell growth, migration, and apoptosis of breast cancer MCF-7 cells.
Changes in DNA Methylation from Age 18 to Pregnancy in Type 1, 2, and 17 T Helper and Regulatory T-Cells Pathway Genes
Authors: Iqbal Sabrina , Lockett Gabrielle , Holloway John , Arshad S. , Zhang Hongmei , Kaushal Akhilesh , Tetali Sabarinath , Mukherjee Nandini , Karmaus Wilfried
Published: February 2018

To succeed, pregnancies need to initiate immune biases towards T helper 2 (Th2) responses, yet little is known about what establishes this bias. Using the Illumina 450 K platform, we explored changes in DNA methylation (DNAm) of Th1, Th2, Th17, and regulatory T cell pathway genes before and during pregnancy. Female participants were recruited at birth (1989), and followed through age 18 years and their pregnancy (2011–2015). Peripheral blood DNAm was measured in 245 girls at 18 years; from among these girls, the DNAm of 54 women was repeatedly measured in the first (weeks 8–21, n = 39) and second (weeks 22–38, n = 35) halves of pregnancy, respectively. M-values (logit-transformed β-values of DNAm) were analyzed: First, with repeated measurement models, cytosine–phosphate–guanine sites (CpGs) of pathway genes in pregnancy and at age 18 (nonpregnant) were compared for changes (p ≤ 0.05). Second, we tested how many of the 348 pathway-related CpGs changed compared to 10 randomly selected subsets of all other CpGs and compared to 10 randomly selected subsets of other CD4+-related CpGs (348 in each subset). Contrasted to the nonpregnant state, 27.7% of Th1-related CpGs changed in the first and 36.1% in the second half of pregnancy. Among the Th2 pathway CpGs, proportions of changes were 35.1% (first) and 33.8% (second half). The methylation changes suggest involvement of both Th1 and Th2 pathway CpGs in the immune bias during pregnancy. Changes in regulatory T cell and Th17 pathways need further exploration.
The Impact of Aging on Cardio and Cerebrovascular Diseases
Authors: Izzo Carmine , Carrizzo Albino , Alfano Antonia , Virtuoso Nicola , Capunzo Mario , Calabrese Mariaconsiglia , De Simone Eros , Sciarretta Sebastiano , Frati Giacomo , Oliveti Marco , Damato Antonio , Ambrosio Mariateresa , De Caro Francesco , Remondelli Paolo , Vecchione Carmine
Published: February 2018

A growing number of evidences report that aging represents the major risk factor for the development of cardio and cerebrovascular diseases. Understanding Aging from a genetic, biochemical and physiological point of view could be helpful to design a better medical approach and to elaborate the best therapeutic strategy to adopt, without neglecting all the risk factors associated with advanced age. Of course, the better way should always be understanding risk-to-benefit ratio, maintenance of independence and reduction of symptoms. Although improvements in treatment of cardiovascular diseases in the elderly population have increased the survival rate, several studies are needed to understand the best management option to improve therapeutic outcomes. The aim of this review is to give a 360° panorama on what goes on in the fragile ecosystem of elderly, why it happens and what we can do, right now, with the tools at our disposal to slow down aging, until new discoveries on aging, cardio and cerebrovascular diseases are at hand.
In Their Own Words: The Significance of Participant Perceptions in Assessing Entomology Citizen Science Learning Outcomes Using a Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: Lynch Louise , Dauer Jenny , Babchuk Wayne , Heng-Moss Tiffany , Golick Doug
Published: February 2018

A mixed methods study was used to transcend the traditional pre-, post-test approach of citizen science evaluative research by integrating adults’ test scores with their perceptions. We assessed how contributory entomology citizen science affects participants’ science self-efficacy, self-efficacy for environmental action, nature relatedness and attitude towards insects. Pre- and post-test score analyses from citizen scientists (n = 28) and a control group (n = 72) were coupled with interviews (n = 11) about science experiences and entomological interactions during participation. Considering quantitative data alone, no statistically significant changes were evident in adults following participation in citizen science when compared to the control group. Citizen scientists’ pre-test scores were significantly higher than the control group for self-efficacy for environmental action, nature relatedness and attitude towards insects. Interview data reveal a notable discrepancy between measured and perceived changes. In general, citizen scientists had an existing, long-term affinity for the natural world and perceived increases in their science self-efficacy, self-efficacy for environmental action, nature relatedness and attitude towards insects. Perceived influences may act independently of test scores. Scale instruments may not show impacts with variances in individual’s prior knowledge and experiences. The value of mixed methods on citizen science program evaluation is discussed.
Effect of MUC8 on Airway Inflammation: A Friend or a Foe?
Authors: Cha Hee-Jae , Song Kyoung
Published: February 2018

In this review, we compile identifying molecular mechanisms of MUC8 gene expression and studies characterizing the physiological functions of MUC8 in the airway and analyzing how altered MUC8 gene expression in the lung is affected by negative regulators.
Impact of PSP Technique on Clinical Outcomes Following Bioresorbable Scaffolds Implantation
Authors: Ortega-Paz Luis , Brugaletta Salvatore , Sabaté Manel
Published: February 2018

Bioresorbable scaffolds (BRS) were introduced in clinical practice to overcome the long-term limitations of newer-generation drug-eluting stents. Despite some initial promising results of the Absorb BRS, safety concerns have led to the discontinuation of the commercialization of this device. Several retrospective studies have assessed the impact of the so-called Pre-dilation, Sizing and Post-dilation (PSP) technique concluding that an optimal PSP technique can improve clinical outcomes following BRS implantation. In this article, the definition of the PSP technique, and the current evidence of its impact on clinical outcomes are put in perspective. Additionality, the relationship between the PSP technique and the dual-antiplatelet therapy to prevent scaffold thrombosis is addressed. Finally, the future perspectives of BRS technology in clinical practice are commented.
From Fibrils to Toughness: Multi-Scale Mechanics of Fibrillating Interfaces in Stretchable Electronics
Authors: Van der Sluis Olaf , Vermeij Tijmen , Neggers Jan , Vossen Bart , Van Maris Marc , Vanfleteren Jan , Geers Marc , Hoefnagels Johan
Published: February 2018

Metal-elastomer interfacial systems, often encountered in stretchable electronics, demonstrate remarkably high interface fracture toughness values. Evidently, a large gap exists between the rather small adhesion energy levels at the microscopic scale (‘intrinsic adhesion’) and the large measured macroscopic work-of-separation. This energy gap is closed here by unravelling the underlying dissipative mechanisms through a systematic numerical/experimental multi-scale approach. This self-containing contribution collects and reviews previously published results and addresses the remaining open questions by providing new and independent results obtained from an alternative experimental set-up. In particular, the experimental studies on Cu-PDMS (Poly(dimethylsiloxane)) samples conclusively reveal the essential role of fibrillation mechanisms at the micro-meter scale during the metal-elastomer delamination process. The micro-scale numerical analyses on single and multiple fibrils show that the dynamic release of the stored elastic energy by multiple fibril fracture, including the interaction with the adjacent deforming bulk PDMS and its highly nonlinear behaviour, provide a mechanistic understanding of the high work-of-separation. An experimentally validated quantitative relation between the macroscopic work-of-separation and peel front height is established from the simulation results. Finally, it is shown that a micro-mechanically motivated shape of the traction-separation law in cohesive zone models is essential to describe the delamination process in fibrillating metal-elastomer systems in a physically meaningful way.
A Self-Switchable Polymer Reactor for Controlled Catalytic Chemistry Processes with a Hyperbranched Structure
Authors: Luo Rong , Yang Hong , Deng Xiaobo , Jin Liqiang , Wang Yulu , Li Songjun
Published: February 2018

A self-switchable polymer reactor with a hyperbranched structure for controlled catalytic chemistry processes is reported. This polymer reactor was made of silver nanoparticles and a polymer carrier consisting of hyperbranched polyethylenimine and hydroxyethyl acrylate that behaved as thermally switchable domains. Below the transfer temperature, relatively strong catalytic reactivity was demonstrated due to the leading role of hydrophilic groups in the switchable domains, which opened access to the substrate for the packaged silver nanoparticles. In contrast, it showed weak catalysis at relatively high temperatures, reducing from the significantly increased hydrophobicity in the switchable domains. In this way, the polymer reactor displays controllable, tunable, catalytic activity based on this approach. This novel design opens up the opportunity to develop intelligent polymer reactors for controlled catalytic processes.
Pathogenesis and Animal Models of Post-Primary (Bronchogenic) Tuberculosis, A Review
Authors: Hunter Robert , Actor Jefrey , Hwang Shen-An , Khan Arshad , Urbanowski Michael , Kaushal Deepak , Jagannath Chinnaswamy
Published: February 2018

Primary and post-primary tuberculosis (TB) are different diseases caused by the same organism. Primary TB produces systemic immunity. Post-primary TB produces cavities to support massive proliferation of organisms for transmission of infection to new hosts from a person with sufficient immunity to prevent systemic infection. Post-primary, also known as bronchogenic, TB begins in humans as asymptomatic bronchial spread of obstructive lobular pneumonia, not as expanding granulomas. Most lesions regress spontaneously. However, some undergo caseation necrosis that is coughed out through the necrotic bronchi to form cavities. Caseous pneumonia that is not expelled through the bronchi is retained to become the focus of fibrocaseous disease. No animal reproduces this entire process. However, it appears that many mammals utilize similar mechanisms, but fail to coordinate them as do humans. Understanding this makes it possible to use human tuberculous lung sections to guide manipulation of animals to produce models of particular human lesions. For example, slowly progressive and reactivation TB in mice resemble developing human bronchogenic TB. Similarly, bronchogenic TB and cavities resembling those in humans can be induced by bronchial infection of sensitized rabbits. Granulomas in guinea pigs have characteristics of both primary and post primary TB. Mice can be induced to produce a spectrum of human like caseating granulomas. There is evidence that primates can develop bronchogenic TB. We are optimistic that such models developed by coordinated study of human and animal tissues can be used with modern technologies to finally address long-standing questions about host/parasite relationships in TB, and support development of targeted therapeutics and vaccines.
Sortase-Mediated Ligation of Purely Artificial Building Blocks
Authors: Dai Xiaolin , Mate Diana , Glebe Ulrich , Mirzaei Garakani Tayebeh , Körner Andrea , Schwaneberg Ulrich , Böker Alexander
Published: February 2018

Sortase A (SrtA) from Staphylococcus aureus has been often used for ligating a protein with other natural or synthetic compounds in recent years. Here we show that SrtA-mediated ligation (SML) is universally applicable for the linkage of two purely artificial building blocks. Silica nanoparticles (NPs), poly(ethylene glycol) and poly(N-isopropyl acrylamide) are chosen as synthetic building blocks. As a proof of concept, NP–polymer, NP–NP, and polymer–polymer structures are formed by SrtA catalysis. Therefore, the building blocks are equipped with the recognition sequence needed for SrtA reaction—the conserved peptide LPETG—and a pentaglycine motif. The successful formation of the reaction products is shown by means of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-ToF MS), and dynamic light scattering (DLS). The sortase catalyzed linkage of artificial building blocks sets the stage for the development of a new approach to link synthetic structures in cases where their synthesis by established chemical methods is complicated.
The Use of Tactile Sensors and PIV Analysis for Understanding the Bearing Mechanism of Pile Groups
Authors: You Zhijia , Chen Yulong
Published: February 2018

Model tests were carried out in dry silica sand under pile loading and visualizing observation to investigate the behavior of a pile group. The pile group consisted of nine cylindrical model piles of 40 mm in diameter in most tests or three rectangular parallelepiped model piles in the visualizing observation. Pile spacings of 200 mm and 100 mm between pile centers were used in the models. Tactile sensors were installed to measure the pressure distribution in the ground and colored sand layer with particle image velocimetry (PIV) analysis to reveal the ground deformation in addition to strain gauges inside the model piles to investigate the interaction among group piles. The tests results showed that a narrower spacing between piles resulted in a wider affected area of the ground and the interaction was more significant below the tips.
Analysis of Dark Current in BRITE Nanostellite CCD Sensors
Authors: Popowicz Adam
Published: February 2018

The BRightest Target Explorer (BRITE) is the pioneering nanosatellite mission dedicated for photometric observations of the brightest stars in the sky. The BRITE charge coupled device (CCD) sensors are poorly shielded against extensive flux of energetic particles which constantly induce defects in the silicon lattice. In this paper we investigate the temporal evolution of the generation of the dark current in the BRITE CCDs over almost four years after launch. Utilizing several steps of image processing and employing normalization of the results, it was possible to obtain useful information about the progress of thermal activity in the sensors. The outcomes show a clear and consistent linear increase of induced damage despite the fact that only about 0.14% of CCD pixels were probed. By performing the analysis of temperature dependencies of the dark current, we identified the observed defects as phosphorus-vacancy (PV) pairs, which are common in proton irradiated CCD matrices. Moreover, the Meyer-Neldel empirical rule was confirmed in our dark current data, yielding E M N = 24.8 meV for proton-induced PV defects.
Analytic and Unambiguous Phase-Based Algorithm for 3-D Localization of a Single Source with Uniform Circular Array
Authors: Zuo Le , Pan Jin , Ma Boyuan
Published: February 2018

This paper presents an analytic algorithm for estimating three-dimensional (3-D) localization of a single source with uniform circular array (UCA) interferometers. Fourier transforms are exploited to expand the phase distribution of a single source and the localization problem is reformulated as an equivalent spectrum manipulation problem. The 3-D parameters are decoupled to different spectrums in the Fourier domain. Algebraic relations are established between the 3-D localization parameters and the Fourier spectrums. Fourier sampling theorem ensures that the minimum element number for 3-D localization of a single source with a UCA is five. Accuracy analysis provides mathematical insights into the 3-D localization algorithm that larger number of elements gives higher estimation accuracy. In addition, the phase-based high-order difference invariance (HODI) property of a UCA is found and exploited to realize phase range compression. Following phase range compression, ambiguity resolution is addressed by the HODI of a UCA. A major advantage of the algorithm is that the ambiguity resolution and 3-D localization estimation are both analytic and are processed simultaneously, hence computationally efficient. Numerical simulations and experimental results are provided to verify the effectiveness of the proposed 3-D localization algorithm.
Setting Them up to Fail: The Challenge of Employing Project-Based Learning Within a Higher Education Environment
Authors: Wright Richard Keith
Published: February 2018

Project based learning (PBL) facilitators seek to establish long-term understanding by encouraging students to team up, take control of their own educational environments, and embrace the knowledge gained through personal experience. This article offers a new contextualized perspective
to an already expansive body of academic knowledge, much of which has focused on the outcomes attached to PBL's adoption in compulsory education environments. More specifically, this article addresses the unique challenges attached to facilitating PBL among a cohort of adult learners, many
of whom enter the educational experience with an expectation that they will be provided with all the tools they need to succeed. An extensive review of the origins and effectiveness of PBL provides the platform for an unobtrusive summative content analysis employed to categorize 115 negative
comments from sport and recreation students enrolled on to two different event management modules over a 3-year period (2014–2016). The critical comments were separated into two closely-related themes: "Challenge avoider" and "Disappointing surprise." The findings and discussions are
integrated to ensure that event management educators are aware of the personal and professional criticisms that they can expect to encounter because of embracing an unconventional constructivist-inspired PBL approach. The conclusions note the importance of managing the expectations of the
consumer while maintaining their faith/trust in the value and validity of PBL. The recommendations identify the need to ensure that the long-term benefits of being exposed to PBL in a highly stressful educational environment will ultimately outweigh any initial backlash experienced.
Magnetic Field Transport in Accretion Disks
Authors: Jafari Amir , Vishniac Ethan T.
Published: February 2018

The leading models for launching astrophysical jets rely on strong poloidal magnetic fields threading the central parts of their host accretion disks. Numerical simulations of magneto-rotationally turbulent disks suggest that such fields are actually advected from the environment by the accreting matter rather than generated by internal dynamos. This is puzzling from a theoretical point of view, since the reconnection of the radial field across the midplane should cause an outward drift on timescales much shorter than the accretion time. We suggest that a combination of effects are responsible for reducing the radial field near the midplane, causing efficient inward advection of the poloidal field. Magnetic buoyancy in subsonic turbulence pushes the field lines away from the midplane, decreasing the large-scale radial field in the main body of the disk. In magneto-rotationally driven turbulence, magnetic buoyancy dominates over the effects of turbulent pumping, which works against it, and turbulent diamagnetism, which works with it, in determining the vertical drift of the magnetic field. Balancing buoyancy with diffusion implies that the bending angle of the large-scale poloidal field can be very large near the surface, as required for outflows, but vanishes near the midplane, which impedes turbulent reconnection and outward diffusion. This effect becomes less efficient as the poloidal flux increases. This suggests that accretion disks are less likely to form jets if they have a modest ratio of outer to inner radii or if the ambient field is very weak. The former effect is probably responsible for the scarcity of jets in cataclysmic variable systems.
Galaxy Formation in Sterile Neutrino Dark Matter Models
Authors: Menci N. , Grazian A. , Lamastra A. , Calura F. , Castellano M. , Santini P.
Published: February 2018

We investigate galaxy formation in models with dark matter (DM) constituted by sterile neutrinos. Given their large parameter space, defined by the combinations of sterile neutrino mass

and mixing parameter

with active neutrinos, we focus on models with

, consistent with the tentative 3.5 keV line detected in several X-ray spectra of clusters and galaxies. We consider (1) two resonant production models with

and

, to cover the range of mixing parameters consistent with the 3.5 keV line; (2) two scalar-decay models, representative of the two possible cases characterizing such a scenario: a freeze-in and a freeze-out case. We also consider thermal warm DM with particle mass

. Using a semianalytic model, we compare the predictions for the different DM scenarios with a wide set of observables. We find that comparing the predicted evolution of the stellar mass function, the abundance of satellites of Milky Way–like galaxies, and the global star formation history of galaxies with observations does not allow us to disentangle the effects of the baryonic physics from those related to the different DM models. On the other hand, the distribution of the stellar-to-halo mass ratios, the abundance of faint galaxies in the UV luminosity function at

, and the specific star formation and age distribution of local, low-mass galaxies constitute potential probes for the DM scenarios considered. We discuss how future observations with upcoming facilities will enable us to rule out or to strongly support DM models based on sterile neutrinos.
Dientamoeba fragilis diagnosis by fecal screening: relative effectiveness of traditional techniques and molecular methods
Authors: Hamidi Negin , Meamar Ahmad Reza , Akhlaghi Lameh , Rampisheh Zahra , Razmjou Elham
Published: February 2018

Introduction: Dientamoeba fragilis, an intestinal trichomonad, occurs in humans with and without gastrointestinal symptoms. Its presence was investigated in individuals referred to Milad Hospital, Tehran.

Methodology: In a cross-sectional study, three time-separated fecal samples were collected from 200 participants from March through June 2011. Specimens were examined using traditional techniques for detecting D. fragilis and other gastrointestinal parasites: direct smear, culture, formalin-ether concentration, and iron-hematoxylin staining. The presence of D. fragilis was determined using PCR assays targeting 5.8S rRNA or small subunit ribosomal RNA.

Results: Dientamoeba fragilis, Blastocystis sp., Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba coli, and Iodamoeba butschlii were detected by one or more traditional and molecular methods, with an overall prevalence of 56.5%. Dientamoeba was not detected by direct smear or formalin-ether concentration but was identified in 1% and 5% of cases by culture and iron-hematoxylin staining, respectively. PCR amplification of SSU rRNA and 5.8S rRNA genes diagnosed D. fragilis in 6% and 13.5%, respectively. Prevalence of D. fragilis was unrelated to participant gender, age, or gastrointestinal symptoms.

Conclusions: This is the first report of molecular assays to screen for D. fragilis in Iran. The frequent finding of D. fragilis via fecal analysis indicated the need to include this parasite in routine stool examination in diagnostic laboratories. As the length of amplification target correlates to the sensitivity of PCR, this assay targeting the D. fragilis 5.8S rRNA gene seems optimal for parasite detection and is recommended in combination with conventional microscopy for diagnosing intestinal parasites.
Increasing the efficiency and productivity in the production of low voltage switchboard using resource constrained project scheduling
Authors: Tannady Hendy , Maimury Yona
Published: February 2018

Purpose: This research was made with the aim to give a scheduling proposal for the assembly activity and the proposal to allocate those activities into available resources using the resource-constrained project scheduling.Design/methodology/approach: The research begins with the problem exposition in the existing system on the Assembly Department of panel manufacturer company. To overcome the problem, several scheduling alternatives are formulated to yield better productivity. The performance of proposed system using RCPS is assessed using simulation method. Considering the circumstance of demand rate, the scenarios chosen are based on the parameter such as product departure cycle time, resource utilization, product ouput, and number of resource required.Findings: The scheduling alternatives provides the better arrangement of work elements  in the assembly activity, especially for the product that represent the highest demand rate. For further research, the paper gives encouragement so that the application of RCPS can be used broader in the manufacturing area.Research limitations/implications: Although the findings was addressed to improve the existing system on the Assembly Department, the practical application haven’t been undergone and the performance assessment only based on the simulation method.Practical implications: By implementing the proposed scheduling, the company will experience several benefits. First, the company could increase its productivity by better utilization of its resources. Second, based on the simulation result, the company could avoid the backorder option while dealing with the high demand rate, and even can fully maximize its resource utilization without adding more worker or apply the overtime policy. Finally, the proposed scheduling that converted into the work instruction could help the company to perform the knowledge transfer from the existing worker or resigned worker to the newly-hired worker.Originality/value: The outcome of the research could become the guidance for other companies which have similar assembly system to apply the same method.  This is the best paper that represents the application of RCPS in the large-sized component assemblies, where the walking worker is responsible for carrying tasks to each unmoved unit.