bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fiscal transfers based on inputs or outcomes? Lessons from the Twelfth and Thirteenth Finance Commission in India
Authors: Fan Victoria Y. , Iyer Smriti , Kapur Avani , Mahbub Rifaiyat , Mukherjee Anit
Published: August 2017

Background

There is limited empirical evidence about the efficacy of fiscal transfers for a specific purpose, including for health which represents an important source of funds for the delivery of public services especially in large populous countries such as India.

Objective

To examine two distinct methodologies for allocating specific‐purpose centre‐to‐state transfers, one using an input‐based formula focused on equity and the other using an outcome‐based formula focused on performance.

Materials and Methods

We examine the Twelfth Finance Commission (12FC)'s use of Equalization Grants for Health (EGH) as an input‐based formula and the Thirteenth Finance Commission (13FC)'s use of Incentive Grants for Health (IGH) as an outcome‐based formula. We simulate and replicate the allocation of these two transfer methodologies and examine the consequences of these fiscal transfer mechanisms.

Results

The EGH placed conditions for releasing funds, but states varied in their ability to meet those conditions, and hence their allocations varied, eg, Madhya Pradesh received 100% and Odisha 67% of its expected allocation. Due to the design of the IGH formula, IGH allocations were unequally distributed and highly concentrated in 4 states (Manipur, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Nagaland), which received over half the national IGH allocation.

Discussion

The EGH had limited impact in achieving equalization, whereas the IGH rewards were concentrated in states which were already doing better. Greater transparency and accountability of centre‐to‐state allocations and specifically their methodologies are needed to ensure that allocation objectives are aligned to performance.
Heat transfer analysis of plain and dimpled tubes with different spacings
Authors: Afzal Asif , Samee A. D Mohammed , Javad Abdul , Shafvan S Ahamed , P V Ajinas , Kabeer K. M Ahammedul
Published: August 2017

Heat transfer enhancement by modifying the surface of tubes is commonly practiced throughout the world. Grooves, dimples, flutes or corrugations are placed inside and outside the surface of tubes and channels for enhancement. In this article, a novel method for heat transfer enhancement by varying the spacing between the tubes is reported. A comparison is made between the heat transfer performance of plain tubes and dimpled tubes at different spacings. For analysis, an experimental setup is fabricated and assembled. The flow is externally forced laminar flow of air over a hot tube maintained at constant temperature. Four different velocities of air 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and 1.0 m/s are considered in this study. Tube surface temperature, heat transfer coefficient, heat transfer rate and Nusselt number are the parameters studied to analyze the thermal behavior of tubes at different spacings of 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, and 3.5 cm. From the experimental investigation it is found that, apart from heat transfer enhancement by providing dimples on the tube surfaces, there is an optimal spacing between the tubes after which no further improvement is obtained. In this study, 3.0 cm is found to be the optimal spacing for both plain and dimpled tubes. However, the percentage value of heat transfer enhancement is greater with optimal spacing and for all velocities of air in dimpled tubes.
What is the source of baseflow in agriculturally fragmented catchments? Complex groundwater/surface‐water interactions in three tributary catchments of the Wabash River, Indiana, USA
Authors: Frisbee Marty D. , Meyers Zachary P. , Stewart‐Maddox Noah S. , Caffee Marc W. , Bogeholz Philine , Hughes Madison N.
Published: August 2017

Some conceptual models suggest that baseflow in agriculturally fragmented watersheds may contain little, if any, groundwater. This has critical implications for stream quality and ecosystem functioning. Here, we (a) identify the sources and flowpaths contributing to baseflow using 222Rn and 87Sr/86Sr and (b) quantify mean apparent ages of groundwater and baseflow using multiple isotopic tracers (CFC, SF6, 36Cl, and 3H) in 4 small (0.08 to 0.64 km2) tributary catchments to the Wabash River in Indiana, USA. 222Rn activities and 87Sr/86Sr ratios indicate that baseflow in 3 catchments is sourced primarily from groundwater; baseflow in the fourth is dominated by a source similar to agricultural run‐off. CFC‐12 data indicate that springs in 1 catchment are discharging significant proportions of water that recharged between 1974 (42 ± 2 years) and 1961 (55 ± 2 years). Those same springs have 36Cl/Cl ratios between 1,381.08 ± 29.37 (×10−15) and 1,530.64 ± 27.65 (×10−15) indicating that a substantial proportion of the discharge likely recharged between 1975 (41 years) and 1950 (66 years). Groundwater samples collected from streambed mini‐piezometers in a separate catchment have CFC‐12 concentrations indicating that a large proportion of the recharge occurred between 1948 (68 ± 2 years) and 1950 (66 ± 2 years). Repeat sampling conducted in September 2015 after above‐average summer rainfall did not show significant decreases in mean apparent age. The relatively old ages observed in 3 of the catchments can be explained by geological complexities that are likely present in all 4 catchments, but overwhelmed by flow from the shallow phreatic aquifer in the fourth catchment.
Cancer risk of Lichen planus: A cohort study of 13,100 women in Finland
Authors: Halonen Pia , Jakobsson Maija , Heikinheimo Oskari , Riska Annika , Gissler Mika , Pukkala Eero
Published: August 2017

The association between Lichen planus (LP) and cancer has been under debate for decades. We studied the connection via population‐based Finnish register data. All women with the diagnosis of LP (n = 13,100) were identified from the Finnish Hospital Discharge Registry from 1969–2012. These patients were linked with subsequent cancer diagnoses from the Finnish Cancer Registry until 2014. Standardized incidence ratios (SIRs) were counted for different cancers by dividing the observed numbers of cancers by expected numbers, which were based on national cancer incidence rates. In total, 1,520 women with LP were diagnosed with cancer (SIR 1.15, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09–1.20). LP was associated with an increased risk of cancer of lip (SIR 5.17, 95% CI 3.06–8.16), cancer of tongue (SIR 12.4, 95% CI 9.45–16.0), cancer of oral cavity (SIR 7.97, 95% CI 6.79–9.24), cancer of esophagus (SIR 1.95, 95% CI 1.17–3.04), cancer of larynx (SIR of 3.47, 95% CI 1.13–8.10) and cancer of vulva (SIR 1.99, 95% CI 1.18–3.13). The risk of cancer was not increased in other locations where LP manifests (pharynx and skin). Patients with diagnosed LP have an increased risk of developing cancer of lip, tongue, oral cavity, esophagus, larynx and vulva. These data are important when considering treatment and follow‐up of patients with LP diagnosis.
Photochemical C−H Activation: An Early Story
Authors: Eisenberg Richard
Published: August 2017

An early investigation in the author‘s laboratory into photochemical C−H bond activation and functionalization is recounted. Specifically, d8 Ir(I) and Rh(I) carbonyl phosphine complexes were found to promote benzene C−H bond activtion and functionalization to give benzaldehyde upon near‐UV irradiation. The carbonylation of benzene is thermodynamically unfavorable resulting in only low yields of benzaldehyde. The photochemical process was suggested as ligand dissociation to yield a 14 e− Ir(I) or Rh(I) intermediate capable of benzene C−H oxidative additions. The research set the stage for subsequent photochemical C−H activation and functionalization studies by others in the late 1980’s.
Case Study: Agile SE Process for Centralized SoS Sustainment at Northrop Grumman
Authors: Dove Rick , Schindel Bill
Published: August 2017

In 2015 Northrop Grumman's GCSS‐J Systems Engineering group in Mclean, Virginia, supporting the DISA GCSS‐J PMO, had been sustaining and evolving a critical information service portal for 12 independent user groups accessing 22 independent systems. This web‐based portal is a centralized Systems‐of‐Systems (SoS) hub, dealing with unpredictable independent‐system changes, mitigating immediate‐priority security needs, and replacing uncontrollable obsolescence of COTS software elements – all the while deploying new capability in six month increments requested by expectant users. The systems engineering process combines elements of Scrum, and contract waterfall requirements simultaneously on three release instances, one in development, one in accreditation test, and one in deployed use – with a wave‐like transition among the three instances every six months. The process had six years of effective employment and evolution, winning praise from GAO and users alike. Most notable is the real‐time control model for re‐prioritizing work‐in‐process, the intimate involvement of customer and users in the agile systems engineering process, and the never‐ending evolution with all life‐cycle stages in simultaneous activity.
Graph‐Based Digital Blueprint for Model Based Engineering of Complex Systems
Authors: Bajaj Manas , Backhaus Jonathan , Walden Tim , Waikar Manoj , Zwemer Dirk , Schreiber Chris , Issa Ghassan ,   Intercax, Martin Lockheed
Published: August 2017

Complex, cyber‐physical systems must be founded on a digital blueprint that provides the most accurate representation of the system by federating information from engineering models across multiple enterprise repositories. This blueprint would serve as the digital surrogate of the system and evolve as the actual system matures across its lifecycle, from conception and design to production and operations. This paper presents a graph‐based approach for realizing the digital blueprint, which we refer to as the Total System Model. The paper is divided into five parts. Part 1 provides an introduction to use cases for model‐based systems engineering. Part 2 introduces graph concepts for the Total System Model. Part 3 provides a demonstration of the graph‐based approach using Syndeia software as a representative application. Part 4 provides a summary of this paper, and Part 5 lays out potential directions for future work.
The Roles of Systems Engineers Revisited
Authors: Hutchison Nicole , Wade Jon , Luna Sergio
Published: August 2017

Systems engineers sometimes have a bit of an identity crisis. As a multidisciplinary approach, systems engineering overlaps with other disciplines and this can make it difficult to differentiate between what systems engineering “is” and “is not”. Using Sheard's 1996 work on systems engineering roles as a starting point, in 2014 the Helix project began examining the activities systems engineers reported performing in a combination of detailed resumes (or curriculum vitae) and in‐depth interviews. After reviewing the data from nearly 300 systems engineers, leaders and managers of systems engineers, and close peers of systems engineers, the Helix team has updated these roles and developed a structure for thinking about the major types of roles systems engineers play based on the focus of activities: on the system, the organization, or the team. There are now 15 roles, some of which have been modified from Sheard's original 12.
An industrial example of using Enterprise Architecture to speed up systems development
Authors: Sjöberg Peter , Kihlström Lars‐Olof , Hause Matthew
Published: August 2017

The development of large, complex, heavy construction equipment can be difficult, time consuming and expensive, even more so if the goal is to design a complete site solution. The example used is taken from an ongoing real project named Electric site. The aim is to electrify a transport stage in a quarry – from excavation to primary crushing and transport to secondary crushing. This will reduce the CO2 95% and the total cost of operation 25%. This paper describes how a standards‐based enterprise architecture model can be used to significantly influence continued system engineering efforts as well as the software architecture for the application development. The enterprise architecture model has been developed specifically to ensure overall management of the site. It is this description, created with an enterprise perspective of the site that is used directly to speed up the development of the systems architecture. The model also details the applications that are required as part of the different systems that will support the overall management of the site.
Towards a Modular System Dynamics Approach for Modelling Military Workforce Planning Problems
Authors: Jnitova Victoria , ElSawah Sondoss , Ryan Michael
Published: August 2017

Military workforce planning and management is increasingly drawing upon Modelling and Simulation (M&S) to enhance decision making. This project is to develop and validate an M&S approach suitable for modelling workforce dynamics ‘from cradle to grave’, offering end users a decision‐support mechanism which is intuitive to use and tailorable to any specific problem within the military workforce context. The project is based on multiple case studies where generic System Dynamics ‘building blocks’ (BBs) are progressively developed, tested and validated. The Royal Australian Navy (RAN) Electronic Technician basic training pipeline is the first case study of the series. The earlier problem scoping and conceptualisation conducted by the authors is continued in collaboration with the RAN stakeholders to develop process models for the three existing pipeline variations. These conceptual models are then used to facilitate effective stakeholder engagement, and to inform the design of the preliminary working set of BBs.
A Combinatorial Approach to Tradespace Exploration of Complex Systems: A CubeSat Case Study
Authors: Qiao Li , Efatmaneshnik Mahmoud , Ryan Michael
Published: August 2017

This paper presents a novel approach to tradespace exploration for large‐scale and multi‐dimensional tradespace, which reduce the cognitive workload in addressing numerous design options to a manageable level. Our approach enables exploration by classifying subsets of design solutions or designs of interest, which will in turn facilitate and accelerate the decision making process. As the design tradespace for products such as CubeSats is naturally large‐scale and multi‐dimensional, the proposed approach integrates computational data clustering algorithms with multi‐dimensional scaling visualization. In the proposed approach, k‐medoids clustering provides a grouping model where similar designs are grouped; uncovering hidden patterns and features within datasets; and the principal component analysis allow users to visualize design samples on two‐dimensional scatter plots. A case study tradespace consisting of 1200+ CubeSat design alternatives is used to demonstrate how this approach supports knowledge discovery of design options through tradespace exploration of multi‐dimensional data.
Use of the Goal Structuring Notation to Argue Technical Integrity
Authors: Simmonds Scott , Cook Stephen C
Published: August 2017

The Australian Defence Force currently uses three separate technical regulatory frameworks, one for each of the services. These are each concerned with accepting materiel – Land, Aerospace or Naval – into Australian Service. These technical regulatory frameworks use similar terminology and conceptually are based upon a similar model of design assurance – in particular the concept of Design Acceptance. Design Acceptance is a process that (among other things) examines the system in terms of its functions, construction, and ability to be safely used and maintained through its service life. The Design Acceptance process has the goal of ensuring a design, sourced from a design agency, has met its specification as determined by verification, has been developed by competent personnel within the design agency, and as part of that development, has been subjected to independent review and certification. Goal Structuring Notation (GSN) is a means to produce a sound argument based upon evidence of the satisfaction of the above criteria. Using GSN, the assurance argument presented to the technical regulator can be partitioned such that the elements of a Design Acceptance argument can be built up over time, and can address the critical elements of the argument appropriately. This paper provides an introduction to the application of the GSN to formulating a Design Acceptance argument and, in particular, its application to a Technical Integrity argument.
Improving Joint Force Integration by Design in the new Defence Capability Life Cycle
Authors: Flahive Andrew , Lowe Donald , Jakobsson Åse , Unewisse Mark
Published: August 2017

This paper proposes several product integration parameters and a method to implement the parameters to improve Joint Force Integration by Design. The parameters support the implementation of the systems integration guidance provided in the Australian Defence's Integrating Operational Concept Document. The proposed parameters and implementation method are presented in the context of the new Defence Capability Life Cycle. The early phases of the new Defence Capability Life Cycle are unpacked and explored in terms of Systems Engineering constructs. The terms Portfolio, Program, Project and Product are explained and what they mean to those working in Systems Engineering in Defence. The method and parameters are explored in more detail through a future maritime example. Through this example several parameters were found to better support system engineering at mid‐high levels of abstraction, to understand justify the main Joint Force integration design decisions of defence capabilities. The most valuable parameters were found to be: Rephrased Integration Need, Importance, Rationale, and Assumptions.
The Impact of Lean on the mining industry: A simulation evaluation approach
Authors: Maunzagona Shingai A. , Telukdarie Arnesh
Published: August 2017

The mining industry, especially in Southern Africa, is experiencing significant uncertainty and volatility, and it has become important for mining organizations to find ways to reduce cost and improve operational efficiency. The Lean principle mainly aims to reduce waste specific to resources, time and cost and has slowly been adapted into the mining industry. The main objective of the study was to evaluate the impact of applying the Lean principle in a mining company using simulation modeling. The study commences with literature review so as to explore the most recent Lean application in mining. A case study was utilized to identify and examine the production flow that exists on the diamond production set up. Sample data was collected, and a current state Value Stream Map was constructed. A simulation model of the production set up of the diamond mine was configured and simulation‐optimization techniques are utilized. The study contributes to the understanding of the link between the Lean principle and efficient execution of mining operations. The study also illustrates simulation modeling as a tool to compliment Lean evaluation.
Innovation, Risk, Agility, and Learning, Viewed as Optimal Control & Estimation
Authors: Schindel William D. (Bill)
Published: August 2017

This paper summarizes how a well‐understood problem—optimal control and estimation in “noisy” environments—provides a framework to advance understanding of a well‐known but less well‐mastered problem—system innovation life cycles and management of decision risks and learning. The ISO15288 process framework and its exposition in the INCOSE SE Handbook describe system development and other life cycle processes. Concerns about improving the performance of processes in dynamic, uncertain, and changing environments are partly addressed by “agile” systems engineering approaches. Both are typically described in the procedural language of business processes, so it is not always clear whether the different approaches are fundamentally at odds, or just different sides of the same coin. Describing the target system, its environment, and the life cycle management processes using models of dynamical systems allows us to apply earlier technical tools, such as the theory of optimal control in noisy environments, to emerging innovation methods.
Challenges and Opportunities for the New Generation of Systems Engineering Leaders
Authors: Islam Muhammad F. , Kafle Subash , Wong Al , Guillaume‐Joseph Gina , Heart DeAnthony
Published: August 2017

As the field of systems engineering (SE) is evolving and expanding around the world, systems engineers see the opportunity to grow their professional competencies as practitioners while emerging as future leaders of innovation and invention. At the same time, they are faced with challenges in obtaining proper academic credentials, following through with professional training and growth, and dealing with organizational issues, such as staffing diversity. As the discipline of SE is applicable to virtually all domains—including, for example, healthcare, information technology, transportation, and defense and space—being a systems engineer often has different contexts and expectations based on where the practice is being applied. In this paper, the authors discuss four areas that offer both challenges and opportunities for new generation SE leaders. These include academic environment, certification, technical leadership development, and promotion of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
A Framework to Reenvision Instructional Scaffolding for Linguistically Diverse Learners
Authors: de Oliveira Luciana C. , Athanases Steven Z.
Published: August 2017

This commentary presents a coherent framework that reenvisions instructional scaffolding for linguistically and culturally diverse learners, based on our research, teaching, and collaborations with teachers. We have worked to understand how, why, and when supports work, for whom, and in what ways, as well as tensions and challenges that teachers encounter as they consider supports for an increasingly diverse student population. The framework is organized in three domains: scaffolding for whom, for what purpose(s), and how. Each domain includes guiding questions to help teachers plan, shaped by literacy research. Relevant actions illustrate ways to address the questions and focus on each domain. Practices of three teachers illustrate the framework in action.
What Is Engagement, How Is It Different From Motivation, and How Can I Promote It?
Authors: Afflerbach Peter , Harrison Colin
Published: August 2017

This department column is a venue for thoughtful discussions of contemporary issues dealing with policy and practice, remixed in ways that generate new insights into enduring dilemmas, debates, and controversies.
Do contractionary monetary policy shocks expand shadow banking?
Authors: Nelson Benjamin , Pinter Gabor , Theodoridis Konstantinos
Published: August 2017

Using VAR models for the USA, we find that a contractionary monetary policy shock has a persistent negative impact on the level of commercial bank assets, but increases the assets of shadow banks and securitization activity. To explain this “waterbed” effect, we propose a standard New Keynesian model featuring both commercial and shadow banks, and we show that the model comes close to explaining the empirical results. Our findings cast doubt on the idea that monetary policy can usefully “get in all the cracks” of the financial sector in a uniform way.
Chronic arsenic intoxication diagnostic score (CAsIDS)
Authors: Dani Sergio Ulhoa , Walter Gerhard Franz
Published: August 2017

Arsenic and its compounds are well‐established, potent, environmentally widespread and persistent toxicants with metabolic, genotoxic, mutagenic, teratogenic, epigenetic and carcinogenic effects. Arsenic occurs naturally in the Earth's crust, but anthropogenic arsenic emissions have surmounted the emissions from important natural sources such as volcanism. Inorganic arsenicals exhibit acute and chronic toxicities in virtually all cell types and tissues, and hence arsenic intoxication affects multiple systems. Whereas acute arsenic intoxication is rare and relatively easy to diagnose, chronic arsenic intoxication (CAsI) is common but goes often misdiagnosed. Based on a review of the literature as well as our own clinical experience, we propose a chronic arsenic intoxication diagnostic score (CAsIDS). A distinctive feature of CAsIDS is the use of bone arsenic load as an essential criterion for the individual risk assessment of chronic arsenic intoxication, combined with a systemic clinical assessment. We present clinical examples where CAsIDS is applied for the diagnosis of CAsI, review the main topics of the toxicity of arsenic in different cell and organ systems and discuss the therapy and prevention of disease caused or aggravated by chronic arsenic intoxication. CAsIDS can help physicians establish the diagnosis of CAsI and associated conditions.
In vivo multiphoton microscopy using a handheld scanner with lateral and axial motion compensation
Authors: Sherlock Ben , Warren Sean C. , Alexandrov Yuriy , Yu Fei , Stone James , Knight Jonathan , Neil Mark A. A. , Paterson Carl , French Paul M. W. , Dunsby Chris
Published: August 2017

This paper reports a handheld multiphoton fluorescence microscope designed for clinical imaging that incorporates axial motion compensation and lateral image stabilization. Spectral domain optical coherence tomography is employed to track the axial position of the skin surface, and lateral motion compensation is realised by imaging the speckle pattern arising from the optical coherence tomography beam illuminating the sample. Our system is able to correct lateral sample velocities of up to approximately 65 μm s−1. Combined with the use of negative curvature microstructured optical fibre to deliver tunable ultrafast radiation to the handheld multiphoton scanner without the need of a dispersion compensation unit, this instrument has potential for a range of clinical applications. The system is used to compensate for both lateral and axial motion of the sample when imaging human skin in vivo.
SIRT1/HERC4 Locus Associated With Bisphosphonate-Induced Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: An Exome-Wide Association Analysis
Authors: Yang Guang , Hamadeh Issam S , Katz Joseph , Riva Alberto , Lakatos Peter , Balla Bernadett , Kosa Janos , Vaszilko Mihaly , Pelliccioni Gian Andrea , Davis Noa , Langaee Taimour Y , Moreb Jan S , Gong Yan
Published: August 2017

Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a rare, but serious drug side effect, mainly associated with the use of intravenous (iv) bisphosphonates (BPs). The purpose of this study was to identify genetic variants associated with ONJ in patients of European ancestry treated with iv BPs using whole-exome sequencing (WES). The WES phase 1 included 44 multiple myeloma patients (22 ONJ cases and 22 controls) and WES phase 2 included 17 ONJ patients with solid tumors. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI), adjusting for age, sex, and principal components for ancestry. Meta-analysis of WES phase 1 and 2 was performed to estimate the combined ORs. In silico analyses were then performed to identify expression quantitative loci (eQTL) single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that are in high linkage disequilibrium (LD) with the top SNPs. The associations of the potentially functional SNPs were replicated and validated in an independent case-control study of 48 patients of European ancestry treated with iv BPs (19 ONJ cases and 29 controls). The top SNPs in the exome-wide association meta-analysis were two SNPs on chromosome 10: SIRT1 SNP rs7896005 and HERC4 SNP rs3758392 with identical OR of 0.07 (0.01–0.46; p = 3.83 × 10−5). In the in silico functional analyses, two promoter region SNPs (rs7894483 and rs3758391) were identified to be in high LD with the index SNPs and are eQTLs for SIRT1 gene in whole blood in the GTEx database. The ORs were 0.30 (0.10–0.88), 0.26 (0.12–0.55), and 0.26 (0.12–0.55) for the WES top SNP rs7896005 and two promoter SNPs rs7894483 and rs3758391, respectively, in the replication sample. In summary, we identified the SIRT1/HERC4 locus on chromosome 10 to be associated with iv BP-induced ONJ and two promoter SNPs that might be the potential genetic markers for this association. © 2017 The Authors.Journal of Bone and Mineral Research Published by Wiley Periodicals Inc.
The diversity in the expression profile of caveolin II transcripts, considering its new transcript in breast cancer
Authors: Ariana Mehdi , Arabi Nasibeh , Pornour Majid , Vaseghi Hajar , Ganji Shahla Mohammad , Alivand Mohammad Reza , Salari Maryam , Akbari Mohammad Esmaeil
Published: August 2017

Most studies have revealed the effects of caveolins in cancer inhibition. However, due to a lack of reports about their new transcripts, their presence and their effects on different cancers are unclear. This study was conducted to evaluate the cavolin‐2 (cav‐2) transcripts expression changes in tumoral and corresponding tissues and in contralateral breast, to investigate their variation associated with the variation of caveolin‐1 (cav‐1) expression in breast cancer. There were 40 breast‐derived tumoral, corresponding, and contralateral tissues obtained from the patients with breast cancer. The RNA and proteins were extracted from these samples. So, cav‐1 and cav‐2 transcripts’ variation were assessed in whole tumoral, corresponding, and contralateral breast. Also, their expression modifications were evaluated via the Western blotting technique. The results derived from this study verified the presence of transcript III of cav‐2 for the first time, which was reported only in the gene bank, but we could not detect and validate any protein associated with these transcripts. Also, the decreasing trend of cav‐1 and the cav‐2 (transcripts I and II) were observed in tumoral tissues compared to unaffected tissues especially in stages I and II. It seems that the descending expression levels of cav‐1 and cav‐2 (transcript I, II) besides the lasting expression of cav‐2 (transcript III) are associated with the incidence and promotion of breast cancer, especially in the initial stages of breast cancer. So, this may show a potential in determining the patients who can undergo the prophylactic mastectomy. Moreover, the results of the study demonstrated that transcript III may be a candidate as a non‐coding RNA.
Asthma phenotypes
Authors: Hirose Masahiro , Horiguchi Takahiko
Published: August 2017

Currently, categorization based on cluster analysis by objectively grasping the diversity of pathology is being conducted and the diversity of asthma is being categorized as phenotypes. Clinically, there is categorization based on aging and on allergic diathesis which is clinically useful; however, it has not, up to now, come to the point of selection based on phenotype. Subsequently, what is desired is the establishment of phenotype categorization for the purpose of materialization of treatment strategy which corresponds to individual cases. This study elaborates on order‐made medicine while considering phenotype.
Polychromatic colorings of complete graphs with respect to 1‐, 2‐factors and Hamiltonian cycles
Authors: Axenovich Maria , Goldwasser John , Hansen Ryan , Lidický Bernard , Martin Ryan R. , Offner David , Talbot John , Young Michael
Published: August 2017

If G is a graph and is a set of subgraphs of G, then an edge‐coloring of G is called ‐polychromatic if every graph from gets all colors present in G. The ‐polychromatic number of G, denoted , is the largest number of colors such that G has an ‐polychromatic coloring. In this article, is determined exactly when G is a complete graph and is the family of all 1‐factors. In addition is found up to an additive constant term when G is a complete graph and is the family of all 2‐factors, or the family of all Hamiltonian cycles.
Synthesis of Novel Pyrazole Derivatives as Antineoplastic Agent
Authors: Rizk Sameh A. , El‐Sayed Amira A. , Mounier Marwa M.
Published: August 2017

Anticancer evaluation of pyrazole 2 and Schiff base 5 is reported. Synthesis of some important heterocyclic compounds via 2,3‐diaryloxirane‐2,3‐dicarbonitrile 1, pyrazole 2, and Schiff base 5 with different nitrogen nucleophiles afforded new routes for synthesized fused heterocyclic derivatives. These compounds can be used as a key starting materials to synthesize some important imidazolo‐[4,5‐c]pyrazole, pyrazolo[3,4‐e]1,2,4‐triaging, imidazolo[3,2‐b]pyrazole, and pyrazolo‐pyrazine, as anticancer reagents showed good results at optimum conditions (400–500 ppm), particularly the bridge head nitrogen compounds, and could be used to improve them. Electromeric effect of the halogen atom in the aryl moieties can be controlled upon the rate of reaction and the yield of the product. The structure of the synthesized new compounds would be characterized by elemental and spectral data.
Phosphine‐Catalyzed Diastereoselective [3 + 3] Annulation of Morita–Baylis–Hillman Carbonates with C,N‐Cyclic Azomethine Imines
Authors: Zhang Lei , Yang Wenjun , Zhou Leijie , Liu Honglei , Huang Jiaxing , Xiao Yumei , Guo Hongchao
Published: August 2017

In this paper, phosphine‐catalyzed [3 + 3] annulation of Morita–Baylis–Hillman carbonates with C,N‐cyclic azomethine imines has been achieved. The reaction worked smoothly under mild conditions to afford 4,6,7,11b‐tetrahydro‐1H‐pyridazino[6,1‐a]isoquinoline derivatives in high yields with good to excellent diastereoselectivities.
A Simple and Environmentally Benign Synthetic Protocol of Indeno‐Fused Pyrido[2,3‐d]pyrimidines
Authors: Bayat Mohammad , Nasri Shima
Published: August 2017

An efficient and environmentally benign protocol for the synthesis of indeno [2ˊ,1ˊ:5,6] pyrido[2,3‐d] pyrimidines has been developed. The synthesis of these pharmacologically important compounds can be achieved by the one‐pot three‐component condensation of 6‐amino‐1,3‐dimethyluracil, aromatic aldehydes, and 1,3‐indandione in ethanol without using catalyst and oxidizing agent. This protocol has the advantages of easier work‐up, milder reaction conditions, and an environmentally benign procedure compared with other methods.
Democratic Capital, Democratic Rights and FDI in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Gossel Sean Joss
Published: August 2017

This study investigates the relationship between democratic capital, democratic rights and foreign direct investment (FDI) in 42 Sub‐Saharan African (SSA) countries over the period of 1972–2014. The results show that FDI is affected by the accumulation of democratic capital to a greater extent than by contemporaneous democratic reforms or the components of democracy (civil liberties and political rights). Furthermore, FDI is found to respond positively to the recent accumulation of democratic capital in more democratic SSA countries, to the durable accumulation of democracy in less democratic countries, and by political repression in more democratic countries. Finally, sensitivity analysis shows that although the results are not significantly affected by the extent of resource dependence, they are susceptible to socio‐cultural variations, particularly among the European heritage SSA countries. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Successful Transition to Secondary School in Tanzania: What Are the Barriers?
Authors: Joyce‐Gibbons Andrew , Galloway David , Mollel Andrew , Mgoma Sylvester , Pima Michael , Deogratias Enos
Published: August 2017

Transition to secondary school is a problem internationally. Tanzanian students face an additional challenge as the medium of instruction changes from Kiswahili to English. An 18‐item questionnaire (N = 383) and focus groups (primary standard 7, secondary forms 1 and 3, and primary and secondary teachers) were used in this study. Most students started secondary school with high expectations. These were qualified by experiences of bullying and punishment. Teachers recognised students losing hope as an explanation for truancy. However, they lacked both the training to teach English and knowledge of alternatives to punishment. Peer mentoring potentially addresses these challenges during transition. © 2017 The Authors Journal of International Development Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
Challenges in the development of dopamine D2‐ and D3‐selective radiotracers for PET imaging studies
Authors: Mach Robert H. , Luedtke Robert R.
Published: August 2017

The dopamine D2‐like receptors (ie, D2/3 receptors) have been the most extensively studied CNS receptor with Positron Emission Tomography (PET). The 3 different radiotracers that have been used in these studies are [11C]raclopride, [18F]fallypride, and [11C]PHNO. Because these radiotracers have a high affinity for both dopamine D2 and D3 receptors, the density of dopamine receptors in the CNS is reported as the D2/3 binding potential, which reflects a measure of the density of both receptor subtypes. Although the development of D2‐ and D3‐selective PET radiotracers has been an active area of research for many years, this by and large presents an unmet need in the area of translational PET imaging studies. This article discusses some of the challenges that have inhibited progress in this area of research and the current status of the development of subtype selective radiotracers for imaging D3 and D2 dopamine receptors with PET.
Non‐polio Enterovirus detection with acute flaccid paralysis: A systematic review
Authors: Suresh Sneha , Forgie Sarah , Robinson Joan
Published: August 2017

Acute flaccid paralysis (AFP), as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is characterized by an acute onset of limb weakness. In the post‐polio era, other enterovirus (EV) serotypes associated with AFP may become more prominent. This study aims to collate the data on the non‐polio enteroviruses (NPEV) associated with AFP. A systematic review of published case reports, case series, and surveillance studies of AFP from 1960 through 2017 was undertaken. Data were collected including the country of the study, number of specimens positive for NPEV and available clinical data. The majority of studies originated from Asia. In surveillance studies, EV 71 (a serotype of Enterovirus A) was the most commonly detected serotype with AFP, followed by Enterovirus B serotype echovirus 11 and then Enterovirus B serotype echovirus 11. In case studies and case reports, EV 71 and EV 68 (a serotype of Enterovirus D), were the most commonly detected NPEV. As poliovirus eradication continues, there is a need to ensure that AFP surveillance will also detect other potentially vaccine preventable viruses.
Seasonal assessment and classification of aerosols transported to Lahore using AERONET and MODIS deep blue retrievals
Authors: Zafar Qudsia , Zafar Sidra , Holben Brent
Published: August 2017

Daily measurements of aerosol optical depth (τ) and Ångstrom wavelength exponent (α) acquired from Aerosol Robotic Network (AERONET) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectrometer (MODIS) are analysed over Lahore – an urban city of Pakistan (period: 2010–2014) to investigate contribution of different types of aerosols originating from both local and regional source locations. The obtained annual averages (mean ± standard deviation) for AERONET retrievals of τ (500 nm) and α (440–870 nm) are 0.68 ± 0.37 (0.08–2.91) and 0.99 ± 0.33 (0–1.8), respectively. Of all the sources, 61% are found within Pakistan, 11% in India, 19% in Afghanistan, 6% in Iran and 2% in Saudi Arabia with seasonal contributions of 35, 25, 23 and 17% in pre‐monsoon, monsoon, winter and post‐monsoon, respectively. The bimodal distributions of α show dominance of coarse‐mode particles during pre‐monsoon, fine‐mode particles during post‐monsoon and presence of both coarse‐mode and fine‐mode particles during winter and monsoon with winter showing more fine‐mode particles. Two broad classes of aerosols namely desert dust (DD) and biomass burning/urban industrial (BU) are identified with criteria, e.g. τ ≥ 0.3 and α ≤ 0.75 indicating presence of DD while τ ≥ 0.2 and α ≥ 1.15 indicating BU. The frequency of occurrence (FOO) of DD and BU aerosols is further identified by applying classification criteria over Aqua‐MODIS deep blue retrievals. The FOO identifies anthropogenic activity on‐going throughout the year, disrupted with DD aerosols only during pre‐monsoon and monsoon. The maximum dust activity is seen over Indo‐Gangetic plains (IGP) (localized maxima: 35–45%) and the Arabian peninsula (>55%) during pre‐monsoon, while maximum BU aerosols are found over IGP, central and south‐eastern plains of India and the state of Gujarat (localized maxima: >70%) in winter and post‐monsoon.
Precipitation over the Tibetan Plateau during recent decades: a review based on observations and simulations
Authors: Wang Xuejia , Pang Guojin , Yang Meixue
Published: August 2017

The Tibetan Plateau (TP) has a significant influence on local, regional, and even global weather and climate systems. Precipitation on the TP plays a critical role in the energy and water cycle and terrestrial ecosystem. This study reviewed recent research progress in precipitation changes in recent decades and explored their mechanisms involved based on observations (meteorological station data and satellite remote sensing data) and simulations [global climate models (GCMs) and downscaling modelling]. Our review suggested that the TP precipitation decreases progressively from southeast to northwest, mainly occurs in summer (June–August), accounting for ∼60–70% of annual total, and marginally occurs in winter (December–February), accounting for less than 10%. Diurnal variation of precipitation and convective activity are obvious on the TP. The TP has experienced an overall surface air wetting trend since the 1960s, but with apparent regional and seasonal differences. Projected precipitation on the TP from GCMs and statistical downscaling methods (SDMs) generally increases, while from dynamic downscaling methods (DDMs) slightly increases or even decreases as greenhouse gas emissions continue in the future. Influencing factors such as the TP' and Asian land heating, large‐scale atmospheric circulations, climate warming, aerosols, and land surface conditions all exert prominent but complicated effects on precipitation changes on the TP. More efforts should be made to improve the reliabilities and accuracies of precipitation observational data sets, GCMs, and downscaling modelling. Finally, directions for future research are discussed based on the various means covering high‐quality precipitation observations and more skilful simulations, which are synthetically used to investigate the TP precipitation and its driving mechanisms. It is expected that this review and its results will be beneficial for hydrological and precipitation studies over the TP.
Single standard substance for the determination of nine volatile components in the distillate of Fructus Gardeniae and Radix Curcumae (an intermediate of Xingnaojing Injection)
Authors: Fang Jinyang , Yang Bo , Ge Zhiwei , Bai Xue , Yan Binjun
Published: August 2017

Xingnaojing Injection is a traditional Chinese medicine extensively used for stroke and cerebral ischemia. For better in‐process quality control of Xingnaojing Injection, a method for the analysis of its intermediate (i.e., the distillate of Fructus Gardeniae and Radix Curcumae) is needed to monitor and optimize the hydrodistillation extraction process. In this work, nine major volatile components in the intermediate were identified: isophorone, 4‐methylene‐isophorone, curcumenone, curcumenol, curdione, curzerenone, furanodienone, curcumol, and germacrone. A quantitative analysis of multi‐component with a single‐marker method based on high‐performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection was developed for the simultaneous determination of the nine components. In this method, only curdione was needed as the reference substance, and the other eight components were determined using their relative correction factors to curdione. In the method validation, good linearity (r > 0.9999), sensitivity, repeatability, and accuracy (recoveries within 95.3–105.4%) were shown. The repeatability and robustness of the relative correction factors were studied with different column temperatures, flow rates, detection wavelengths, columns, and instruments. In sample analyses, consistent results between the proposed method and the external standard method were shown. The proposed method provides a comprehensive and low‐cost tool for the quality assessment of the intermediate of Xingnaojing Injection.
The effect of solvation processes on amino acid‐ and peptide‐silica stationary phases
Authors: Skoczylas Magdalena , Bocian Szymon , Kowalkowski Tomasz , Buszewski Bogusław
Published: August 2017

The surface excess adsorption isotherms of water, acetonitrile, and methanol from binary hydro‐organic mobile phases were investigated on nine home‐made stationary phases with chemically bonded amino acids, dipeptides, and tripeptides using the dynamic minor disturbance method. The stationary phases were modified by the following amino acids: glycine, alanine, phenylalanine, leucine, and aspartic acid. We investigated the influence of the type of immobilized amino acids, in particular their different side chains, on the solvent adsorption. The interpretation of solvation phenomena shows significant accumulation of investigated solvents on the adsorbent surface according to their hydrophilic or hydrophobic properties. Moreover, the accumulated amount was dependent on the length and type of amino acid sequences bonded to the silica surface. Stationary phases with bonded amino acids and peptides show stronger water and acetonitrile adsorption in contrast to the stationary phase modified with aminopropyl groups—a support for the synthesis. The comparison of water and acetonitrile adsorption as well as a data obtained with the two‐site adsorption model reveal and confirm the heterogeneity of chemically bonded phases. As a consequence of performed investigations, the classification of tested stationary phases for the potential usage in particular high‐performance liquid chromatography mode was also accomplished.
Habitat selection and activities of dabbling ducks during non‐breeding periods
Authors: Osborn Joshua M. , Hagy Heath M. , Mcclanahan Matthew D. , Davis J. Brian , Gray Matthew J.
Published: August 2017

Western Tennessee is an important region for waterfowl during non‐breeding periods, supporting >40% of the Mississippi Flyway population of American black ducks (Anas rubripes). Understanding habitat selection and activities of waterfowl during the non‐breeding period is important for directed habitat management on national wildlife refuges and in other wetlands important in meeting regional waterfowl conservation objectives. During November–February 2011–2013, we investigated diurnal habitat selection and activities of dabbling ducks (Anatini) among 5 common wetland types relative to emergent cover, water depth, and energetic carrying capacity (i.e., duck energy days [DEDs]) in western Tennessee, USA. We observed waterfowl daily and sampled food resources monthly at Tennessee and Cross Creeks National Wildlife Refuges. Mallard (Anas platyrhynchos), gadwall (A. strepera), northern pintail (A. acuta), and American green‐winged teal (A. carolinensis) selected moist‐soil wetlands over wooded, aquatic bed, and open water wetland types. Gadwall also selected deeper wetlands containing submersed aquatic vegetation. Foraging was the dominant activity of all dabbling ducks in mudflats and moist‐soil wetlands, and it was also dominant in wooded wetlands for green‐winged teal and gadwall. Deep, open water was avoided by dabbling ducks. Selection of wetland types was negatively correlated with increasing water depth and positively correlated with increasing emergent cover and DEDs. Shallowly flooded moist‐soil and wooded wetlands provide high‐energy foods and dense emergent cover, and are important to a diversity of dabbling ducks during winter. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.