bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interpretive Dialogue: Cultural, Socio Spiritual Dimensions and Auditors’ Competence in Implementing IFRS Convergence in Indonesia
Authors: SHONHAJI Nanang
Published: May 2016

Convergence of local GAAP to IFRS in Indonesia was influenced by cultural, socio-spiritual and internal auditors’ competence when they report the financial statements to the management. This study used the interpretive paradigm as a tool to answer the research questions and supported by empirical facts that utilized the theory as the basis for analyzing the realities during the research process. The aim of this research is to determine the relevant values of the dimensions of cultural, spiritual and internal auditors’ competence to implement IFRS convergence in Indonesia. The results of this study indicate that the internal auditors within the scope of social life cannot separate the elements of culture that was formed in the implementation of IFRS convergence on the financial statements. Internal auditors understand their task as well as spiritual and worldly. Internal auditors’ competence was interpreted as sufficient capability through formal education and experience as an accountant. Suggestions and limitations also presented in this study for further research consideration.KEYWORDS: Culture, International Financial Reporting System, socio spiritual accounting,auditors’ competence, descriptive design, Indonesia interpretative paradigm
Management of Credit Activities and their Effects on Commercial Banks’ Credit Risk in Indonesia
Authors: KRISTIJADI EMANUEL , SALIM UBUD , SUDARMA MADE , DJUMAHIR DJUMAHIR
Published: May 2016

The financial institution in any nation has a potential role in the economy but it can also create the risks taken by the borrowers. This study seek to test the effect of policy and credit risk management strategies, quality of human resources, information technology intensity, and moral hazard of lending staff on the credit risk management process. This is positivist approach with qualitative information to support quantitative analysis using 83 respondents of commercial banks (excluding foreign banks), collected by means of questionnaires related to respondents’ perceptions with Likert scale. The analysis was done by using Generalized Structured Component Analysis (GSCA). Results showed that credit risk management olicies can improve credit risk management strategy formulation; credit risk management strategies improves credit risk management process quality; the intensity of high IT improves credit risk management process quality; the human resource quality can less improve credit risk management process quality; moral hazard less improves credit risk management process quality; and, the high quality of credit risk management processes can reduce credit risk. It can be concluded that credit risk management process has a significant effect on credit risk. The credit risk management policy and strategy, information technology, and moral hazard are needed to support such process.Keywords: Business and Management, credit risk, Generalized StructuredComponent Analysis (GSCA), Indonesia Commercial Banks, Indonesia
Casigayan Microfinance: A Feasible Project for the Poor Families of Northern Philippines
Authors: DULLIYAO RAQUEL J. , YUMOL EDNA P. , DULAY NORFREDO M.
Published: May 2016

One of the major socio-economic problems besetting the Philippine Economyis the widespread poverty. Based on the Family Income and Expenditure Survey(FIES), there are 4.7 million poor Filipino households translated to povertyincidence of 35.7%. Urban poverty incidence was 28.8%, while rural povertyincidence was 53.7%. This study determined the feasibility of establishing an economic program on Thrift and Savings scheme to households and individuals earning at least or below the standard wage either on daily basis, contractual,commission or seasonal. It assessed the possibility of developing microfinancewithin the marginalized sector as a self-help institution to provide financial assistance among themselves. Adopting a model on microfinance establishment, the study has identified respondents who have no stable job or permanent sourceof income. Policies on membership were strictly followed including savings, loans,and collection. Microfinance was set with agreed minimal regular savings and wasmaintained and pooled. Loans with minimal interest were granted. Trainings,workshops, and regular meetings were conducted. The study concludes that theestablishment of microfinance in the area was very feasible.Keywords: Business, Casigayan Microfinance, ingenuity, economic uplift, descriptivedesign, Kalinga-Apayao, Philippines
The Behavioral Consequences of Customers Satisfaction Index in East Java Integrated Licensing Services (Pelayanan Perijinan Terpadu- P2T)
Authors: _ SUKESI
Published: May 2016

Consumer behavior has become a prevailing topic in service managementrecently. Doing research on this field benefits the service company. East JavaDepartment of Transportation and LLAJ as public institution should care aboutthe customers. Through UPT P2T’s transparency, this institution can providecertainty of completion, processing time, estimated cost and other detailedinformation with certain service quality. The study determined the CommunitySatisfaction Index of East Java Integrated Licensing Service - P2T TransportSector and analyzed the behavioral consequences of Community SatisfactionIndex of East Java Integrated Licensing Service - P2T Transportation Sector.Primary data were obtained through questionnaires, using closed and openquestions, whereas secondary data were obtained from other parties related tothis study. The findings revealed that the average analysis of CSI is classified as‘Good’ (B), with a value of 78.584. Therefore, this will affect 23 products/typesof permits which are available from the four areas of service and the respondentsprovide spontaneous and positive responses during the licensing process.Keywords: Business Management, transparency, service, consequences, society behavior, satisfaction index, descriptive design, Indonesia
Stress Factors and Well-Being of Overseas Filipino Workers
Authors: MARGALLO JOANY , PELIGRO AMELIA O.
Published: May 2016

Stressors impinge on the well-being of overseas workers, given theirvulnerability being far from home. The study determined the significantrelationship between the extent of stress factors, such as Health, Work, Homeand Family, Personal and Social and Financial stresses, and the level of wellbeingof OverseasFilipinoWorkers.This is a descriptive-correlationalstudy usingpurposivesampling of 400 FilipinoOverseasWorkercurrentlyin the countryonvacationandthosecurrentlyworkingabroadwhowerecontactedthroughtheFacebookNetworkingSiteand YahoomailWebsite.Meanand PearsonProductMomentCorrelationor Pearsonr wereused as statistical tools. The ExtentofStressFactorsassociated with the Well-beingof OverseasFilipinois moderatelyextensive.This means that the OverseasFilipinoWorkershaveexperienced the Stress Factors sometimes while working abroad. The level of the well-being of overseas Filipino workers is high. This means that their state of well-being isoften satisfactory while working abroad. The result suggests that Filipino culturalvalues like “pakikisama, pakikitungo, utang na loob, bayanihan, pamamagitan, patriotism, commitment, responsibility, nationalism, compassion, goal oriented, dignity, family solidarity, competence, reliability, knowledgeable, and loyalty”and the availability of social media and electronic mails brought by Internetconnections and other means of communication sustain the physical, financial,mental and spiritual well-being of OFWs while working abroad.Keywords: Social Science, overseas Filipino workers, stress factors, well-being, significantrelationship, descriptive-correlational design, Philippines
LA OBJECIÓN DE CONCIENCIA EN EL ORDENAMIENTO JURÍDICO ESPAÑOL: ¿UN INSOLUBLE ENIGMA?
Authors:   Universidad de Alicante (España), Alenda Salinas Manuel
Published: May 2016

En el presente trabajo se aborda el estudio de la objeción de conciencia en el ordenamiento jurídico español, tanto en lo relativo a su problemática con carácter general (incluida la cuestión relativa a la determinación de su naturaleza jurídica); como por lo que respecta al análisis de las diferentes manifestaciones de la objeción de conciencia que tienen reconocimiento en el mismo (al servicio militar, sanitaria, farmacéutica, a formar parte de una mesa electoral y otras). Todo ello, atendiendo a la más reciente jurisprudencia del Tribunal Constitucional dictada en la materia.
LIBRE ALBEDRIO Y LIBERTAD RELIGIOSA
Authors:   Universidad de Buenos Aires (Argentina), Minkowicz Gabriel A. , Garchtrom Lydia Norma ,   Universidad de Buenos Aires (Argentina)
Published: May 2016

El presente artículo analiza el concepto de “libertad religiosa” entendido como una consecuencia lógica del principio de “libre albedrío”. Es por ello que, el presente artículo plantea, en primera instancia, el análisis del “libre albedrío” desde una perspectiva judía tomando como fuente principal al Pentateuco, complementado con las opiniones e interpretaciones que los distintos Rabinos elaboraron a lo largo de los siglos. En una segunda instancia se analiza sucintamente la idea de “libertad religiosa” a la luz de la tradición judía.
LA LEY ANTIDISCRIMINACIÓN EN COLOMBIA Y LA LIBERTAD RELIGIOSA: UNA PROPUESTA DE ARMONIZACIÓN EN LO FUNDAMENTAL
Authors:   Universidad Externado de Colombia, Baena López Carlos Alberto
Published: May 2016

El presente artículo acoge inicialmente una visión descriptiva, pero al mismo tiempo, crítica de la Ley Antidiscriminación que rige actualmente en Colombia. Verifica sus contenidos y alcances, así como su más reciente reforma, aportando algunas perspectivas en torno a su aplicabilidad. Tiene en cuenta, como debe ser, el componente jurisprudencial, sobre todo en lo atinente a la coexistencia entre el derecho a la igualdad, versus la diferenciación constitucionalmente legítima. Posteriormente, recrea una relación entre la situación del hecho religioso, la discriminación y la persecución que en estas áreas ocurre en el país, destacando asimismo los avances más recientes. Culmina con una serie de propuestas que ayudan a identificar cuál puede ser el camino más apropiado a seguir
LA GESTIÓN DE LA DIVERSIDAD RELIGIOSA EN EL PERÚ
Authors:   Universidad Católica Sedes Sapientiae (Perú), Calvi del Risco Juan Antonio
Published: May 2016

La llegada de los españoles a América, sin duda marca un punto de partida y quiebre en temas de creencias, cultos, prácticas existentes, entre otros, en este territorio. Con los españoles, en este nuevo territorio “supuestamente nuevo y virgen” la diversidad religiosa se fue dejando de lado, imponiéndose como única religión la católica, excluyendo todas las demás de manera absoluta, la cual se vio afianzada con el Patronato Indiano. Durante el siglo XIX se gestó en América del Sur la lucha por la independencia de la corona Española. Sin embargo, la primera constitución peruana de 1823 y las siguientes, expresaron formalmente que la religión católica era la única y oficial válida en el territorio peruano. De esta manera, el siglo XX es el inicio de la Libertad Religiosa en el Perú, elevándola a nivel constitucional. Así, la Constitución de 1933 consagró un articulado en donde se otorga el derecho a las demás religiones en el ejercicio de sus cultos, dando paso a un brote de diversidad religiosa. Por otra parte, durante el gobierno militar del General Velazco Alvarado en 1979, el Estado Peruano deja de ser confesional, y las relaciones entre Iglesia Católica u el Estado Peruano, tiene como característica fundamental la autonomía e independencia del uno frente al otro. Ya en el siglo XXI se ha avanzado aún más jurídicamente hablando en el desarrollo de la diversidad y libertad religiosa. Por ejemplo, se crea en el año 2002 la Dirección de Asuntos Interconfesionales en el Ministerio de Justicia, entidad estatal dirigida a las confesiones religiosas distintas de la católica. También se creó la Ley de Libertad Religiosa (2011), promulgada el 16 de Diciembre del 2010, Ley N° 29.635. De esta manera, Perú es un país de profunda diversidad religiosa, el derecho a la igualdad la tiene cada confesión religiosa pero que se debe ir ganando en el tiempo
Construction of 3‐Dimensional Printed Ultrasound Phantoms With Wall‐less Vessels
Authors: Nikitichev Daniil I. , Barburas Anamaria , McPherson Kirstie , Mari Jean-Martial , West Simeon J. , Desjardins Adrien E.
Published: May 2016

Ultrasound phantoms are invaluable as training tools for vascular access procedures. We developed ultrasound phantoms with wall‐less vessels using 3‐dimensional printed chambers. Agar was used as a soft tissue–mimicking material, and the wall‐less vessels were created with rods that were retracted after the agar was set. The chambers had integrated luer connectors to allow for fluid injections with clinical syringes. Several variations on this design are presented, which include branched and stenotic vessels. The results show that 3‐dimensional printing can be well suited to the construction of wall‐less ultrasound phantoms, with designs that can be readily customized and shared electronically.
Southern Ocean deep convection in global climate models: A driver for variability of subpolar gyres and Drake Passage transport on decadal timescales
Authors: Behrens Erik , Rickard Graham , Morgenstern Olaf , Martin Torge , Osprey Annette , Joshi Manoj
Published: May 2016

We investigate the individual and joint decadal variability of Southern Ocean state quantities, such as the strength of the Ross and Weddell Gyres, Drake Passage transport, and sea ice area, using the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research UK Chemistry and Aerosols (NIWA‐UKCA) model and CMIP5 models. Variability in these quantities is stimulated by strong deep reaching convective events in the Southern Ocean, which produce an Antarctic Bottom Water‐like water mass and affect the large‐scale meridional density structure in the Southern Ocean. An increase in the (near) surface stratification, due to freshwater forcing, can be a precondition for subsequent strong convection activity. The combination of enhanced‐gyre driven sea ice and freshwater export, as well as ongoing subsurface heat accumulation, lead to a time lag between changes in oceanic freshwater and heat content. This causes an ongoing weakening of the stratification until sudden strong mixing events emerge and the heat is released to the atmosphere. We find that strong convection reduces sea ice cover, weakens the subpolar gyres, increases the meridional density gradient and subsequently results in a positive Drake Passage transport anomaly. Results of available CMIP5 models confirm that variability in sea ice, Drake Passage transport, and the Weddell Gyre strength is enhanced if models show strong open ocean convective events. Consistent relationships between convection, sea ice, Drake Passage transport, and Ross Gyre strength variability are evident in most models, whether or not they host open ocean convection.
Contrasting sediment melt and fluid signatures for magma components in the Aeolian Arc: Implications for numerical modeling of subduction systems
Authors: Zamboni Denis , Gazel Esteban , Ryan Jeffrey G. , Cannatelli Claudia , Lucchi Federico , Atlas Zachary D. , Trela Jarek , Mazza Sarah E. , De Vivo Benedetto
Published: May 2016

The complex geodynamic evolution of Aeolian Arc in the southern Tyrrhenian Sea resulted in melts with some of the most pronounced along the arc geochemical variation in incompatible trace elements and radiogenic isotopes worldwide, likely reflecting variations in arc magma source components. Here we elucidate the effects of subducted components on magma sources along different sections of the Aeolian Arc by evaluating systematics of elements depleted in the upper mantle but enriched in the subducting slab, focusing on a new set of B, Be, As, and Li measurements. Based on our new results, we suggest that both hydrous fluids and silicate melts were involved in element transport from the subducting slab to the mantle wedge. Hydrous fluids strongly influence the chemical composition of lavas in the central arc (Salina) while a melt component from subducted sediments probably plays a key role in metasomatic reactions in the mantle wedge below the peripheral islands (Stromboli). We also noted similarities in subducting components between the Aeolian Archipelago, the Phlegrean Fields, and other volcanic arcs/arc segments around the world (e.g., Sunda, Cascades, Mexican Volcanic Belt). We suggest that the presence of melt components in all these locations resulted from an increase in the mantle wedge temperature by inflow of hot asthenospheric material from tears/windows in the slab or from around the edges of the sinking slab.
Volatile element isotopes of submarine hydrothermal mineral deposits in the Western Pacific
Authors: Ooki Mitsuhiro , Kagoshima Takanori , Takahata Naoto , Ishibashi Jun‐ichiro , Lan Tefang , Guo Zhengfu , Sano Yuji
Published: May 2016

The abundance and isotopic compositions of volatile elements trapped in fluid inclusions of submarine hydrothermal mineral deposits in Western Pacific subduction zones (Okinawa Trough, Izu‐Bonin arc, Mariana Trough, and Lau Basin) and in Kuroko ores in northeastern Japan are presented. The helium isotopic compositions corrected for air contribution of the Okinawa and Mariana troughs, ranging 4.49–7.68 Ra are lower than those of the Izu‐Bonin and Lau Basin, 7.62–8.91 Ra. This characteristic might reflect the differences in regional tectonic setting. The Okinawa and Mariana troughs are related to back‐arc spreading with strong graben sedimentary signature, whereas the Izu‐Bonin arc is associated with island arc magmatism. The arc contribution to the Lau Basin volcanism is significantly strong, even though it is assigned to back‐arc spreading. Nitrogen isotopes can also be explained by a similar hypothesis, whereas argon and carbon isotopes cannot be used to discriminate tectonic setting. δ13C–CO2/3He and δ15N–N2/36Ar diagrams elucidate the source of carbon and nitrogen. The MOR‐type mantle contributions to carbon are mostly smaller in the Okinawa and Mariana troughs (ranging 0.06–8.9% with the average of 2.4%) than in the Izu‐Bonin and Lau Basin (2.1–25% with the average of 7.7%). The sedimentary contributions to nitrogen are larger in the Okinawa and Mariana troughs (11–65% with the average of 35%) than in the Izu‐Bonin and Lau Basin (4–24% with the average of 15%), and the Kuroko samples agree well with the latter. Carbon and nitrogen fluxes are again higher in Okinawa trough than in Izu‐Bonin arc.
Effect of Vanadium on the Solidification and Homogenization Behaviors in Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: Mo Yan , Wang Dongzhe , Jiang Bin , Li Yongyou , Liu Haiding , Wang Chunguang , Cai Xinnan , Wang Jintai
Published: May 2016

Effect of vanadium (V) on the solidification and homogenization behaviors in Inconel 718 alloy is investigated. V is observed to evenly distribute in dendritic and interdendritic zones, and slightly increase niobium (Nb) and molybdenum (Mo) segregation coefficients. However, Laves phase volume fraction reduces from 2.3 to 0.4%, indicating that V may effectively prevent the precipitation of Laves phase. Homogenization results show that diffusion coefficient of Nb is much higher in the V‐containing alloy, and it takes fewer hours to remove Laves phase, which suggest that microalloying of V can be very helpful in ingots homogenization annealing of Inconel 718 alloy in industry production.
Modulation of Immune Responses by Particulate Materials
Authors: Lebre Filipa , Hearnden Claire H. , Lavelle Ed C.
Published: May 2016

Many biomaterials that are in both preclinical and clinical use are particulate in nature and there is a growing appreciation that the physicochemical properties of materials have a significant impact on their efficacy. The ability of particulates to modulate adaptive immune responses has been recognized for the past century but it is only in recent decades that a mechanistic understanding of how particulates can regulate these responses has emerged. It is now clear that particulate characteristics including size, charge, shape and porosity can influence the scale and nature of both the innate and adaptive immune responses. The potential to tailor biomaterials in order to regulate the type of innate immune response induced, offers significant opportunities in terms of designing systems with increased immune‐mediated efficacy.
Interstitial Point Defect Scattering Contributing to High Thermoelectric Performance in SnTe
Authors: Pei Yanzhong , Zheng Linglang , Li Wen , Lin Siqi , Chen Zhiwei , Wang Yanying , Xu Xiangfan , Yu Hulei , Chen Yue , Ge Binghui
Published: May 2016

Due to point defect phonon scattering, formation of solid solutions has long been considered as an effective approach for enhancing thermoelectric performance through reducing the lattice thermal conductivity. The scattering of phonons by point defects mainly comes from the mass and strain fluctuations between the guest and the host atoms. Both the fluctuations can be maximized by point defects of interstitial atoms and/or vacancies in a crystal. Here, a demonstration of phonon scattering by interstitial Cu atoms is shown, leading to an extremely low lattice thermal conductivity of 0.5 W m−1 K−1 in SnTe‐Cu2Te solid solutions. This is the lowest lattice thermal conductivity reported in SnTe‐based materials so far, which is actually approaching the amorphous limit of SnTe. As a result, a peak thermoelectric figure of merit, zT, higher than 1 is achieved in Sn0.94Cu0.12Te at 850 K, without relying on other approaches for electrical performance enhancements. The strategy used here is believed to be equally applicable in thermoelectrics with interstitial point defects.
Earth‐Rich Transition Metal Phosphide for Energy Conversion and Storage
Authors: Sun Meng , Liu Huijuan , Qu Jiuhui , Li Jinghong
Published: May 2016

Low‐cost and resourceful transition metal phosphides (TMPs) have gradually received wide acceptance in the energy industry through exhibiting comparable catalytic activity and long‐term stability to traditional catalysts (e.g., Pt/C, LiCoO2, LiFePO4, etc.). With the emergence of the research hotspot of TMPs, probing their mechanism of catalytic energy conversion and storage inspired by the superb structure of metal‐phosphorus chelate is of great significance. To this end, recent developments in TMPs with various crystal structures and morphologies have attracted much attention. The design of TMPs ranging from the choice of different transition metals to phosphorus sources has been intensively explored. This research has indicated that multidimensional morphologies of TMPs prominently enrich the patterns of charge storage and electron transportation, and ultra‐nanoscaled TMPs obtained by multiple tools and techniques might challenge the threshold of electrocatalytic reactions. Here, recent developments in synthetic strategies of TMPs from different precursors are classified. The underlying mechanism between the structural and crystallographic characteristics and the tuned properties of TMPs in energy applications is also presented. Additionally, the key trends in structure and morphology characterization of TMPs are highlighted. Future perspectives on the challenges and opportunities facing TMPs catalysts are thereby proposed.
Bismuth‐Based Coordination Polymers with Efficient Aggregation‐Induced Phosphorescence and Reversible Mechanochromic Luminescence
Authors: Toma Oksana , Allain Magali , Meinardi Francesco , Forni Alessandra , Botta Chiara , Mercier Nicolas
Published: May 2016

Two bismuth coordination polymers (CPs), (TBA)[BiBr4(bp4mo)] (TBA=tetrabutylammonium) and [BiBr3(bp4mo)2], which are based on the rarely used simple ditopic ligand N‐oxide‐4,4′‐bipyridine (bp4mo), show mechanochromic luminescence (MCL). High solid‐state phosphorescence quantum yields of up to 85 % were determined for (TBA)[BiBr4(bp4mo)] (λem=540 nm). Thorough investigations of the luminescence properties combined with DFT and TDDFT calculations revealed that the emission is due to aggregation‐induced phosphorescence (AIP). Upon grinding, both samples became amorphous, and their luminescence changed from yellow to orange and red, respectively. Heating or exposure to water vapor led to the recovery of the initial luminescence. These materials are the first examples of mechanochromic phosphors based on bismuth(III).
Catalytic Asymmetric Inverse‐Electron‐Demand 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of C,N‐Cyclic Azomethine Imines with Azlactones: Access to Chiral Tricyclic Tetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Liu Xihong , Wang Yijie , Yang Dongxu , Zhang Jinlong , Liu Dongsheng , Su Wu
Published: May 2016

Reported herein is a bifunctional‐organocatalyst‐mediated enantioselective inverse‐electron‐demand 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition of C,N‐cyclic azomethine imines with azlactones. The strategy provides concise access to enantioenriched C1‐substituted tetrahydroisoquinolines featuring a pyrazolidinone scaffold. Moreover, the scalability and practical utility of this protocol was well demonstrated by employing a gram‐scale reaction and some representative transformations.
Self‐Construction from 2D to 3D: One‐Pot Layer‐by‐Layer Assembly of Graphene Oxide Sheets Held Together by Coordination Polymers
Authors: Zakaria Mohamed B. , Li Cuiling , Ji Qingmin , Jiang Bo , Tominaka Satoshi , Ide Yusuke , Hill Jonathan P. , Ariga Katsuhiko , Yamauchi Yusuke
Published: May 2016

Deposition of Ni‐based cyanide bridged coordination polymer (NiCNNi) flakes onto the surfaces of graphene oxide (GO) sheets, which allows precise control of the resulting lamellar nanoarchitecture by in situ crystallization, is reported. GO sheets are utilized as nucleation sites that promote the optimized crystal growth of NiCNNi flakes. The NiCNNi‐coated GO sheets then self‐assemble and are stabilized as ordered lamellar nanomaterials. Regulated thermal treatment under nitrogen results in a Ni3C–GO composite with a similar morphology to the starting material, and the Ni3C–GO composite exhibits outstanding electrocatalytic activity and excellent durability for the oxygen reduction reaction.
Controlled Growth of a Hierarchical Nickel Carbide “Dandelion” Nanostructure
Authors: Qiao Liang , Zhao Wenxia , Qin Yueling , Swihart Mark T.
Published: May 2016

We present a new type of highly hierarchical but nonporous nanostructure with a unique “dandelion” morphology. Based on the time evolution of these Ni3C nanostructures, we suggest a mechanism for their formation. This type of hierarchical nanocrystal, with high accessible specific surface area in a relatively large (ca. 750 nm overall diameter) stable structure, can be valuable in catalysis and related applications.
In situ fibrillation of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) in polyolefin elastomer through multistage stretching extrusion
Authors: Dong Jiahao , Qi Yuanhui , Sun Jing , Wei Liangqiang , Qin Shuhao
Published: May 2016

Polyolefin elastomer (POE)/poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) microfibrillar composites (MFCs) were successfully fabricated by multistage stretching extrusion with an assembly of laminating‐multiplying elements (LMEs). The morphologies of these novel materials were greatly influenced by the compositions. The number of microfibrils increased with increasing PTT concentration, as revealed by scanning electron microscopy. The tensile strength was the highest along the extrusion direction at the weight ratio of 85/15. Moreover, dynamic rheological results showed that the storage modulus, loss modulus, and complex viscosity were the highest while the tan δ was the lowest for MFCs prepared at the weight ratio 85/15 compared with the neat POE, especially at low frequency (ω < 1 rad/s). In addition, the PTT microfibrils had more effect on the rheological properties compared to the PTT particles. However, the differences became negligible at high frequency (ω > 100 rad/s). © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43797.
Effect of norbornyl modified soybean oil on CB‐filled chloroprene rubber
Authors: Li Jiaxi , Isayev Avraam I. , Ren Xiaofeng , Soucek Mark D.
Published: May 2016

Carbon black (CB)‐filled chloroprene rubber (CR) compounds and vulcanizates containing naphthenic oil (NO), soybean oil (SO), and two different levels of norbornyl modified soybean oil (MSO) were prepared and investigated. The MSO was prepared through the reaction of SO and dicyclopentadiene (DCPD) at different ratios. Various properties including gel fraction, crosslink density, bound rubber fraction, curing behavior, thermal, mechanical, and aging properties of CB‐filled CR containing different oils were compared. It was observed that the addition of SO and MSO could benefit the dispersion of the filler, lower the glass transition temperature, and increase the thermal stability of the CB‐filled CR/MSO compounds and vulcanizates, and also slightly decrease the crosslink density of the CB‐filled CR/MSO vulcanizates compared to that of the CR/NO vulcanizate. With the increase of the modification level of the MSO, the curing time of the CB‐filled CR/MSO compounds was found to be decreased, the tensile property, tear strength, abrasion resistance, and aging resistance of the CB‐filled CR/MSO vulcanizates were improved compared with those of the CB‐filled CR/NO vulcanizate. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43809.
Re‐entrant transition of aluminum‐crosslinked partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide in a high salinity solvent by rheology and NMR
Authors: Sultan Kedir Abduljelil , Seland John Georg , Skauge Arne , Skauge Tormod
Published: May 2016

Linked polymer solution (LPS) is a nanoparticle polymer and designed by crosslinking a high molecular weight partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamide (HPAM) with aluminum (III). It has been applied in the oil industry to enhance oil recovery by improving sweep efficiency and by microscopic diversion in porous media. To achieve good propagation properties, aggregates formed by intermolecular crosslinking and gel formation should be avoided. To our knowledge, there is no established method to distinguish between intra‐ and intermolecular crosslinking for high molecular weight (>10 × 106 Da), low concentration (<1000 ppm), polydisperse solutions of partially hydrolyzed polyacrylamides in high salinity solvents (5 wt % NaCl). The high salinity solvent is relevant to represent for formation water in many oil reservoirs. The main objective of the present study is to establish an experimental method for determining phase transition of LPS from monomeric coiled state to aggregated state in a high salinity solvent. No single experimental methods are conclusive and we have therefore applied a combinatorics approach including two‐dimensional NMR, dynamic rheology, and UV spectroscopy. The different techniques show similar trends, which allow overall interpretations of phase transitions to be made. The experimental results indicated that the LPS solution at high salinity solvent underwent a phase transition by chain re‐expansion, called reentrant transition. The transition point was observed at addition of 100 ppm of Al3+. Higher concentrations of Al3+ suppressed the rate of reentrant transition, most likely because of intramolecular crosslinking of HPAM chains by Al3+. Intermolecular crosslinking reaction was not observed at these conditions. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2016, 133, 43825.
PROTEINS OF THE INTEGUMENTARY SYSTEM OF THE HONEYBEE, Apis mellifera
Authors: Micas André Fernando Ditondo , Ferreira Germano Aguiar , Laure Helen Julie , Rosa José Cesar , Bitondi Márcia Maria Gentile
Published: May 2016

The integument of insects and other arthropods is composed of an inner basal lamina coated by the epidermis, which secretes the bulk of the outer integument layer, the cuticle. The genome sequencing of several insect species has allowed predicting classes of proteins integrating the cuticle. However, only a small proportion of them, as well as other proteins in the integumentary system, have been validated. Using two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry, we identified 45 different proteins in a total of 112 selected gel spots derived from thoracic integument samples of developing honeybee workers, including 14 cuticular proteins (AmelCPR 3, AmelCPR 12, AmelCPR 16, AmelCPR 27, apidermin 2, apidermin 3, endocuticle structural glycoprotein SgAbd‐8‐like, LOC100577363, LOC408365, LOC413679, LOC725454, LOC100576916, LOC725838, and peritrophin 3‐C analogous). Gene ontology functional analysis revealed that the higher proportions of the identified proteins have molecular functions related to catalytic and structural molecule activities, are involved in metabolic biological processes, and pertain to the protein class of structural or cytoskeletal proteins and hydrolases. It is noteworthy that 26.7% of the identified proteins, including five cuticular proteins, were revealed as protein species resulting from allelic isoforms or derived from posttranslational modifications. Also, 66.7% of the identified cuticular proteins were expressed in more than one developmental phase, thus indicating that they are part of the larval, pupal, and adult cuticle. Our data provide experimental support for predicted honeybee gene products and new information on proteins expressed in the developing integument.
Automatic Assembly of Ultra‐Multilayered Nanotube–Nanoparticle Composites
Authors: Fan Ruying , Li Jieling , Fei Jinbo , Zhao Jie , Wang Anhe , Sun Bingbing , Li Junbai
Published: May 2016

Nanotube–nanoparticle composites are fabricated by template‐directed automatic layer‐by‐layer assembly with the assistance of pressure. This assembly strategy above allows the facile construction of uniform complex nanostructures with ultra‐multilayers (≈200). Importantly, it takes much less time than conventional manual manipulation.
Synthesis and Structures of Triptycene‐Derived Oxacalixarenes with Expanded Cavities: Tunable and Switchable Complexation towards Bipyridinium Salts
Authors: Wang Han‐Xiao , Hu Shu‐Zhen , Meng Zheng , Han Ying , Chen Chuan‐Feng
Published: May 2016

New triptycene‐derived oxacalixarene H1 was efficiently synthesized by a template cyclization step, and anilino‐substituted macrocycle H2 was subsequently afforded through straightforward nucleophilic displacement of the active chlorine atom in H1. Oxacalixarene H1 adopts a fixed boat‐like 1,3‐alternate conformation and shows moderate complexation abilities towards various bipyridinium salts. However, the affinities of H2 towards the guests were found to be substantially stronger, which could be tentatively attributed to the additional hydrogen‐bonding site, π–π stacking site, and especially the increased electron richness of the host. Furthermore, the acid–base switchable complexation process between H1 and the bipyridinium salt was also realized, which could potentially facilitate the construction of high‐level stimuli‐responsive supramolecular structures based on the newly synthesized oxacalixarene.
Perovskite Photodetectors based on CH3NH3PbI3 Single Crystals
Authors: Qin Xiang , Yao Yifan , Dong Huanli , Zhen Yonggang , Jiang Lang , Hu Wenping
Published: May 2016

As very important light‐harvesting materials, organic–inorganic perovskites have showed an alluring prospect in optoelectronic devices. However, most of the perovskite devices, such as photodetectors reported recently, are based on the polycrystalline films of perovskites, and the large grain boundaries and amounts of defects existing in films are unfavorable for the further improvement of device performance. Herein, high‐quality single crystals of CH3NH3PbI3 were successfully prepared through a simple solution immersing method. The obtained CH3NH3PbI3 crystals showed the morphologies of nanowires and nanoplates, which were confirmed to belong to the same tetragonal phase. Both nanowire‐ and nanoplate‐based photodetectors exhibited improved performance over CH3NH3PbI3 polycrystalline thin films, with an on/off ratio approaching 103, which is one of the highest values reported so far for perovskite photodetectors.
Hydraulik der Schlitzöffnungen bei beckenartigen Fischaufstiegsanlagen
Authors: Helbig Ulf , Aigner Detlef , Stamm Jürgen
Published: May 2016

Die Durchgängigkeit bei Querbauwerken (z. B. Sohlrampen, Sohlstufen, Wehre, Staudämme) für die aquatische Fauna wird u. a. durch die EG‐Wasserrahmenrichtlinie zur Erreichung eines guten Zustands von Gewässern zwingend gefordert. Eine Möglichkeit zur Umsetzung bildet der Einsatz von beckenartigen Fischaufstiegsanlagen in Form von Schlitzpasskonstruktionen (z. B. klassische Bauart, Rundbeckenpass u. a.). Diese sind durch mindestens eine bis zur Beckensohle durchgehende Schlitzöffnung in der Trennwand zwischen zwei aufeinanderfolgenden Becken charakterisiert. Im Beitrag werden die konstruktiven und daraus folgend die hydraulischen Charakteristika diskutiert. Der Schwerpunkt liegt dabei auf dem hydraulisch relevanten Schlitzbereich. Es werden vereinfachte und somit praktisch universell einsetzbare 1d‐Formelansätze für die Bestimmung der maßgeblichen Fließgeschwindigkeiten und des Dotationsabflusses vorgeschlagen. Die Durchströmung eines Schlitzes stellt dabei eine Kombination aus Überfall und seitlichem Ausfluss aus einem Becken dar.

Hydraulics of vertical slots in fish passes

The passage of fish of artificial obstructions (e. g. weirs, dams) is explicitly demanded by the EU‐Water Framework Directive in order to achieve good biological connectivity and therefore good conditions for the concerned water bodies. The usage of fish passes with tanks and slots (e. g. classic vertical‐slot‐pass, meander‐type fish pass) is a possible solution. This design variant of fish ladders is characterised by at least one continuous slot in a divide wall between two neighbouring tanks. The paper offers a discussion about the design criteria and the essential hydraulic characteristics. Thereby the slot‐opening sector represents the centrepiece. Simplified and universally applicable approaches for determining the significant flow velocities and discharges are proposed. It needs to be noted that the flow in a slot can be handled as the combined result of overfall and lateral outlet.
Evaluating the effectiveness of a practical inquiry‐based learning bioinformatics module on undergraduate student engagement and applied skills
Authors: Brown James A. L.
Published: May 2016

A pedagogic intervention, in the form of an inquiry‐based peer‐assisted learning project (as a practical student‐led bioinformatics module), was assessed for its ability to increase students’ engagement, practical bioinformatic skills and process‐specific knowledge. Elements assessed were process‐specific knowledge following module completion, qualitative student‐based module evaluation and the novelty, scientific validity and quality of written student reports. Bioinformatics is often the starting point for laboratory‐based research projects, therefore high importance was placed on allowing students to individually develop and apply processes and methods of scientific research. Students led a bioinformatic inquiry‐based project (within a framework of inquiry), discovering, justifying and exploring individually discovered research targets. Detailed assessable reports were produced, displaying data generated and the resources used. Mimicking research settings, undergraduates were divided into small collaborative groups, with distinctive central themes. The module was evaluated by assessing the quality and originality of the students’ targets through reports, reflecting students’ use and understanding of concepts and tools required to generate their data. Furthermore, evaluation of the bioinformatic module was assessed semi‐quantitatively using pre‐ and post‐module quizzes (a non‐assessable activity, not contributing to their grade), which incorporated process‐ and content‐specific questions (indicative of their use of the online tools). Qualitative assessment of the teaching intervention was performed using post‐module surveys, exploring student satisfaction and other module specific elements. Overall, a positive experience was found, as was a post module increase in correct process‐specific answers. In conclusion, an inquiry‐based peer‐assisted learning module increased students’ engagement, practical bioinformatic skills and process‐specific knowledge. © 2016 by The International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, 44:304–313 2016.
Genome‐wide analysis of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) expression in colorectal cancer tissues from patients with liver metastasis
Authors: Chen Dong , Sun Qiang , Cheng Xiaofei , Zhang Lufei , Song Wei , Zhou Dongkai , Lin Jianjiang , Wang Weilin
Published: May 2016

The liver is the most frequent site of metastasis in colorectal cancer (CRC), in which long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) may play a crucial role. In this study, we performed a genome‐wide analysis of lncRNA expression to identify novel targets for the further study of liver metastasis in CRC. Samples obtained from CRC patients were analyzed using Arraystar human 8 × 60K lncRNA/mRNA v3.0 microarrays chips to find differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs. The results were confirmed by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). The differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs were identified through fold change filtering. Gene ontology (GO) and pathway analyses were performed using standard enrichment computational methods. In the CRC tissues from patients with liver metastasis, 2636 lncRNAs were differentially expressed, including 1600 up‐regulated and 1036 down‐regulated over two‐fold compared with the CRC tissues without metastasis. Among the 1584 differentially expressed mRNAs, 548 were up‐regulated and 1036 down‐regulated. GO and pathway analysis of the up‐regulated and down‐regulated mRNAs yielded different results. The up‐regulated mRNAs were associated with single‐organism process (biological process), membrane part (cellular component), and transporter activity (molecular function), whereas the down‐regulated mRNAs were associated with cellular process, membrane, and binding, respectively. In the pathway analysis, 27 gene pathways associated with the up‐regulated mRNAs and 51 gene pathways associated with the down‐regulated mRNAs were targeted. The significant changes in NQO2 (NM_000904) mRNA and six associated lncRNAs were selected for validation by qRT‐PCR. Aberrantly expressed lncRNAs may play an important role in the liver metastasis of CRC. The further study can provide useful insights into the biology and, ultimately, the prevention of liver metastasis.
Proton beam therapy for pediatric malignancies: a retrospective observational multicenter study in Japan
Authors: Mizumoto Masashi , Murayama Shigeyuki , Akimoto Tetsuo , Demizu Yusuke , Fukushima Takashi , Ishida Yuji , Oshiro Yoshiko , Numajiri Haruko , Fuji Hiroshi , Okumura Toshiyuki , Shirato Hiroki , Sakurai Hideyuki
Published: May 2016

Recent progress in the treatment for pediatric malignancies using a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy has improved survival. However, late toxicities of radiotherapy are a concern in long‐term survivors. A recent study suggested reduced secondary cancer and other late toxicities after proton beam therapy (PBT) due to dosimetric advantages. In this study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of PBT for pediatric patients treated in Japan. A retrospective observational study in pediatric patients who received PBT was performed. All patients aged <20 years old who underwent PBT from January 1983 to August 2014 at four sites in Japan were enrolled in the study. There were 343 patients in the study. The median follow‐up periods were 22.6 months (0.4–374.3 months) for all patients and 30.6 months (0.6–374.3 months) for survivors. The estimated 1‐, 3‐, 5‐, and 10‐year survival rates were 82.7% (95% CI: 78.5–87.0%), 67.4% (61.7–73.2%), 61.4% (54.8–67.9%), and 58.7% (51.5–65.9%), respectively. Fifty‐two events of toxicity ≥ grade 2 occurred in 43 patients. Grade 4 toxicities of myelitis, visual loss (two cases), cerebral vascular disease, and tissue necrosis occurred in five patients. This study provides preliminary results for PBT in pediatric patients in Japan. More experience and follow‐up with this technique are required to establish the efficacy of PBT in this patient population.
Real‐time facial expression transfer with single video camera
Authors: Liu Shuang , Yang Xiaosong , Wang Zhao , Xiao Zhidong , Zhang Jianjun
Published: May 2016

Facial expression transfer has been actively researched in the past few years. Existing methods either suffer from depth ambiguity or require special hardware. We present a novel marker‐less, real‐time facial transfer method that requires only a single video camera. We develop a robust model, which is adaptive to user‐specific facial data. It computes expression variances in real time and rapidly transfers them onto a target character either from images or videos. Our method can be applied to videos without prior camera calibration and focal adjustment. It enables realistic online facial expression editing and performance transferring in many scenarios such as video conference, news broadcasting, lip‐syncing for song performances and so on. With low computational cost and hardware requirement, our method tracks a single user at an average of 38fps and runs smoothly even in web browsers. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DNA‐Templated Introduction of an Aldehyde Handle in Proteins
Authors: Kodal Anne Louise B. , Rosen Christian B. , Mortensen Michael R. , Tørring Thomas , Gothelf Kurt V.
Published: May 2016

Many medical and biotechnological applications rely on protein labeling, but a key challenge is the production of homogeneous and site‐specific conjugates. This can rarely be achieved by simple residue‐specific random labeling, but generally requires genetic engineering. Using site‐selective DNA‐templated reductive amination, we created DNA–protein conjugates with control over labeling stoichiometry and without genetic engineering. A guiding DNA strand with a metal‐binding functionality facilitates site‐selectivity by directing the coupling of a second reactive DNA strand in the vicinity of a protein metal‐binding site. We demonstrate DNA‐templated reductive amination for His6‐tagged proteins and metal‐binding proteins, including IgG1 antibodies. We also used a cleavable linker between the DNA and the protein to remove the DNA and introduce a single aldehyde on the protein. This functions as a handle for further modifications with desired labels. In addition to directing the aldehyde positioning, the DNA provides a straightforward route for purification between reaction steps.
Water Effect on Secondary Nucleation of the β‐Form on the Surface of the α‐Form of L‐Glutamic Acid
Authors: Liang Shanshan , Duan Xuezhi , Zhang Xiangyang , Qian Gang , Zhou Xinggui
Published: May 2016

The role of water in the secondary nucleation of the stable β‐form of L‐glutamic acid (L‐Glu) on three typical surfaces of the metastable α‐form is investigated via molecular dynamics simulation. Comparing the simulation results on the surfaces in contact with solution with those on the surfaces in vacuum, it is obvious that water molecules do not cause any change in the order of the adsorption energies for the solute molecules on the three surfaces, but reduce the absolute values of the adsorption energies with the extent increasing in the order of {011} < {111} < {001} and retard the clustering behavior of solute molecules with the same order. Water molecules also weaken the inductive effects of the surfaces on the conformational change of α‐ to β‐form. In general, the impact of water on secondary nucleation of the β‐form on the surfaces of the α‐form investigated here could provide a better understanding of the polymorphic transformation of L‐Glu in solution.