bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-State Collaborative Study of a Multifaceted Intervention to Decrease Ventilator-Associated Events
Authors: Rawat Nishi , Yang Ting , Ali Kisha J. , Catanzaro Mary , Cohen Mariah D. , Farley Donna O. , Lubomski Lisa H. , Thompson David A. , Winters Bradford D. , Cosgrove Sara E. , Klompas Michael , Speck Kathleen A. , Berenholtz Sean M.
Published: April 2017

Objectives:

Ventilator-associated events are associated with increased mortality, prolonged mechanical ventilation, and longer ICU stay. Given strong national interest in improving ventilated patient care, the National Institute of Health and Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality funded a two-state collaborative to reduce ventilator-associated events. We describe the collaborative’s impact on ventilator-associated event rates in 56 ICUs.

Design:

Longitudinal quasi-experimental study.

Setting:

Fifty-six ICUs at 38 hospitals in Maryland and Pennsylvania from October 2012 to March 2015.

Interventions:

We organized a multifaceted intervention to improve adherence with evidence-based practices, unit teamwork, and safety culture. Evidence-based interventions promoted by the collaborative included head-of-bed elevation, use of subglottic secretion drainage endotracheal tubes, oral care, chlorhexidine mouth care, and daily spontaneous awakening and breathing trials. Each unit established a multidisciplinary quality improvement team. We coached teams to establish comprehensive unit-based safety programs through monthly teleconferences. Data were collected on rounds using a common tool and entered into a Web-based portal.

Measurements and Results:

ICUs reported 69,417 ventilated patient-days of intervention compliance observations and 1,022 unit-months of ventilator-associated event data. Compliance with all evidence-based interventions improved over the course of the collaborative. The quarterly mean ventilator-associated event rate significantly decreased from 7.34 to 4.58 cases per 1,000 ventilator-days after 24 months of implementation (p = 0.007). During the same time period, infection-related ventilator-associated complication and possible and probable ventilator-associated pneumonia rates decreased from 3.15 to 1.56 and 1.41 to 0.31 cases per 1,000 ventilator-days (p = 0.018, p = 0.012), respectively.

Conclusions:

A multifaceted intervention was associated with improved compliance with evidence-based interventions and decreases in ventilator-associated event, infection-related ventilator-associated complication, and probable ventilator-associated pneumonia. Our study is the largest to date affirming that best practices can prevent ventilator-associated events.
Ivermectin in Treatment of Rosacea
Authors: Siddiqui Fariha , Zito Patrick M.
Published: April 2017

By definition, a drug is a medicine or substance that exerts a physiologic effect on an organism. In dermatology, medications and substances are utilized on a daily basis from topical treatments to anesthetics in micrographic surgery. The purpose of this section is to focus on some of the more common substances, specifically how they work, how they are utilized, and routine alternatives (if available). The mechanism of action, usage, and alternatives of the medication ivermectin are discussed.
The Impact of Proton Pump Inhibition on Dabigatran Levels in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Bolek Tomáš , Samoš Matej , Stančiaková Lucia , Ivanková Jela , Škorňová Ingrid , Staško Ján , Galajda Peter , Kubisz Peter , Mokáň Marián
Published: April 2017

Background:

Proton pump inhibition (PPI) administrated together with dabigatran reduces the risk of gastrointestinal hemorrhage. However, there is a discussion regarding possible PPI–dabigatran interaction that may reduce the efficacy of this therapy.

Study Question:

To determine the impact of concomitant PPI on dabigatran plasma levels in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NV-AF).

Study Design:

A pilot prospective study in patients with NV-AF on dabigatran therapy was performed; 31 patients were enrolled. PPI with either omeprazole or pantoprazole was administrated in 19 patients.

Measures and Outcomes:

Blood samples were taken for the assessment of the dabigatran trough and peak levels. Dabigatran concentration was measured with the Hemoclot Thrombin Inhibitor Assay.

Results:

There were significant differences in dabigatran trough level comparing patients treated with PPI and patients without PPI (58.86 ± 36.76 ng/mL vs. 110.72 ± 88.47 ng/mL, P < 0.05). Similarly, there were significant differences in dabigatran peak level between compared groups (88.0 ± 20.5 ng/mL vs. 174.4 ± 139.64 ng/mL, P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

This pilot study demonstrated the interaction between PPI and dabigatran levels in patients with NV-AF.
Predictability of Interruptions During Medication Administration With Related Behavioral Management Strategies
Authors: Johnson Maree , Weidemann Gabrielle , Adams Rebecca , Manias Elizabeth , Levett-Jones Tracy , Aguilar Vicki , Everett Bronwyn
Published: April 2017

The aim of this qualitative study was to examine the nature of interruptions during medication administration. Focus groups were conducted with medical/surgical nurses (n = 15), critical care nurses (n = 13), and nurse managers/educators/specialists (n = 6). Most interruptions (78%) were predictable. Nurse-adopted strategies included blocking, engaging, mediating, multitasking, and preventing. Educational content was developed that relates behavioral strategies to respond to predictable and unpredictable interruptions.
A Nurse-Directed Model for Nitrous Oxide Use During Labor
Authors: Pinyan Toni , Curlee Kelly , Keever Mellanie , Baldwin Kathleen M.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Nitrous oxide has a long history of use and has been well documented in the literature as a safe, effective, and inexpensive option for pain management in labor in other countries, but it is underused in the United States.

Local Problem:

Pain relief options for laboring women in rural community hospitals with a small perinatal service are limited due to lack of availability of in-house anesthesia coverage.

Method:

This quality improvement project involved development and implementation of a nurse-driven, self-administered, demand-flow nitrous oxide program as an option for pain relief for laboring women in a rural community hospital.

Intervention:

Women's Services registered nurses developed the project using an interdisciplinary team approach based on an extensive literature review and consultation with experts across the country. The hospital is part of a large healthcare system; approval was sought and obtained by the system as part of the project. Cost analysis and patient satisfaction data were evaluated. Outcomes were monitored.

Results:

Approximately one half of the patients who have given birth at the hospital since initiation of the project have used nitrous oxide during labor. The majority of women who participated in a survey after birth found it helpful during mild-to-moderate labor pain. No adverse effects have noted in either the mother or the baby following nitrous oxide use.

Clinical Implications:

Initiation and management of nitrous oxide by registered nurses is a safe and cost-effective option for labor pain. It may be especially beneficial in hospitals that do not have 24/7 in-house anesthesia coverage.
A New Classification of Three-Dimensional Printing Technologies: Systematic Review of Three-Dimensional Printing for Patient-Specific Craniomaxillofacial Surgery
Authors: Jacobs Carly A. , Lin Alexander Y.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Three-dimensional printing technology has been advancing in surgical applications. This systematic review examines its patient-specific applications in craniomaxillofacial surgery.

Methods:

Terms related to “three-dimensional printing” and “surgery” were searched on PubMed on May 4, 2015; 313 unique articles were returned. Inclusion and exclusion criteria concentrated on patient-specific surgical applications, yielding 141 full-text articles, of which 33 craniomaxillofacial articles were analyzed.

Results:

Thirty-three articles included 315 patients who underwent three-dimensional printing–assisted operations. The most common modeling software was Mimics, the most common printing software was 3D Systems, the average time to create a printed object was 18.9 hours (range, 1.5 to 96 hours), and the average cost of a printed object was $1353.31 (range, $69.75 to $5500). Surgical procedures were divided among 203 craniofacial patients (205 three-dimensional printing objects) and 112 maxillofacial patients (137 objects). Printing technologies could be classified as contour models, guides, splints, and implants. For craniofacial patients, 173 contour models (84 percent), 13 guides (6 percent), two splints (1 percent), and 17 implants (8 percent) were made. For maxillofacial patients, 41 contour models (30 percent), 48 guides (35 percent), 40 splints (29 percent), and eight implants (6 percent) were made. These distributions were significantly different (p < 0.0001). Four studies compared three-dimensional printing techniques to conventional techniques; two of them found that three-dimensional printing produced improved outcomes.

Conclusions:

Three-dimensional printing technology in craniomaxillofacial surgery can be classified into contour models (type I), guides (type II), splints (type III), and implants (type IV). These four methods vary in their use between craniofacial and maxillofacial surgery, reflecting their different goals. This understanding may help advance and predict three-dimensional printing applications for other types of plastic surgery and beyond.
Surgical Determinants of Patient-Reported Outcomes following Postmastectomy Reconstruction in Women with Breast Cancer
Authors: Jeevan Ranjeet , Browne John P. , Gulliver-Clarke Carmel , Pereira Jerome , Caddy Christopher M. , van der Meulen Jan H. P. , Cromwell David A.
Published: April 2017

Background:

This national prospective cohort study compared the patient-reported outcomes of breast cancer patients undergoing postmastectomy autologous reconstruction to those who had breast implants, in terms of aesthetic appearance; levels of psychological, physical, and sexual well-being; and overall satisfaction.

Methods:

Of 5063 women who underwent immediate reconstruction (n = 3349) or delayed reconstruction (n = 1714) between January 1, 2008, and March 31, 2009, in England, 2923 women who gave informed consent were sent validated, procedure-specific, 18-month follow-up questionnaires. Outcome scale scores ranged from 0 (poor) to 100 (excellent); multiple linear regression was used to adjust scores for patient and treatment characteristics.

Results:

Two thousand two hundred eighty-nine women (78 percent) returned completed questionnaires (immediate reconstruction, n = 1528; delayed reconstruction, n = 761). For immediate reconstruction, mean overall satisfaction scores for the various techniques ranged from 67 to 85 (median, 67 to 93). For delayed reconstruction, mean overall satisfaction scores ranged from 70 to 85 (median, 75 to 100). For both groups, similar gradients were observed for the other outcome scales across techniques. Reconstruction using patients’ own tissues tended to have higher mean adjusted scores compared with those techniques using implants alone (p < 0.0001 for aesthetic appearance, psychological well-being, sexual well-being, and satisfaction with outcomes for immediate and delayed reconstruction groups).

Conclusions:

Women who underwent autologous reconstruction tended to report greater satisfaction than those who underwent implant reconstruction. These results can inform patients of the anticipated outcomes of their selected surgery, but further research is required to confirm whether autologous reconstruction is superior in general.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, II.
The Impact of Body Contouring Procedures on Urologic Outcomes in Massive Weight Loss Patients
Authors: Mushin Oren P. , Kraenzlin Franca S. , Fazili Anees , Ghazi Ahmed , Bossert Ronald P.
Published: April 2017

Background:

Post–massive weight loss body contouring is a growing area of plastic surgery. Studies have shown preexisting urinary incontinence amelioration in patients undergoing abdominal body-contouring procedures. These studies are small, focus on cosmetic abdominoplasties, and lack use of standardized surveys. The purpose of this study was to evaluate urinary incontinence endpoints in massive weight loss patients undergoing body-contouring procedures.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted over a 6-year period. Patients excluded had previous body-contouring procedures or previously treated urinary incontinence. Participants completed validated surveys to catalogue preoperative and postoperative urinary habits. Patients were then subdivided based on presence of preoperative incontinence. Outcomes were compared within and between cohorts using the t test and chi-square test.

Results:

A total of 102 patients completed the survey. Of those, 44 had preoperative urinary incontinence. Patients with incontinence were found to be significantly older than those who did not. Postoperatively, patients with preoperative incontinence had significant decreases in incidence and severity of symptoms (p < 0.01, respectively), and significantly improved their quality of life (p < 0.02). Over 20 percent noted symptom resolution, and 67 percent were mostly or completely satisfied with the outcome.

Conclusions:

This study is the first to document amelioration of urinary incontinence symptoms in massive weight loss patients undergoing body-contouring procedures. It adds to the literature suggesting that abdominoplasties in select patients may improve incontinence symptoms. Future work will focus on evaluating the mechanism of this outcome and documenting improvement in an objective, prospective manner.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Subfascial Primary Breast Augmentation with Fat Grafting: A Review of 156 Cases
Authors: Kerfant Nathalie , Henry Anne-Sophie , Hu Weiguo , Marchac Alexandra , Auclair Eric
Published: April 2017

Background:

Composite breast augmentation with fat grafting and an implant has become very popular in the past 5 years. This achieves the core volume projection of an implant complemented by the natural appearance and feel of fat. However, no study has looked at the complications and reoperation rates of this technique.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review examined all patients who underwent the combined use of an implant and fat grafting for primary breast augmentation.

Results:

The study identified 156 patients between 2007 and 2013. The mean patient age was 31.7 years and the average body mass index was 18.85 kg/m2. The average implant size was 252 cc. Patients received a mean of 126 cc of fat (range, 30 to 250 cc) in subcutaneous soft tissue. Follow-up averaged 22.25 months (range, 1 to 86 months). The total complication rate was 7.7 percent and the reoperation rate was 9.94 percent. Baker grade II/III contracture was the most common complication [Baker grade II, n = 4 (2.56 percent); Baker grade III, n = 2 (2 percent)], followed by infections [n = 2 (1.28 percent)], hematoma [n = 2 (1.28 percent)], and malrotation [n = 1 (0.64 percent)]. Delayed reoperation was performed in nine patients (9.94 percent) after a mean interval of 31.7 months. Two patients who developed Baker grade III contractures needed surgery to correct the problem. Three cases (1.92 percent) required additional fat grafting for insufficient soft-tissue coverage. The mean volume of fat reinjection was 170 cc.

Conclusions:

Composite breast augmentation is a valuable, stable, reliable technique in breast aesthetic surgery with good, natural-appearing results. It provides long-term aesthetic benefits and avoids the submuscular plane.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Two-Dimensional Spoiled Gradient-Recalled Echo Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Liver Using Respiratory Navigator-Gating Techniques
Authors: Inoue Yusuke , Hata Hirofumi , Matsunaga Keiji , Nakajima Ai , Komi Shotaro , Abe Yutaka , Miyatake Hiroki
Published: April 2017

Objective

We assessed the feasibility of T1-weighted 2-dimensional spoiled gradient-recalled (2D SPGR) acquisition in steady-state imaging of the liver with various respiratory navigator gating techniques.

Methods

A total of 12 healthy volunteers underwent in-phase and out-of-phase 2D SPGR imaging of the liver during breath-holding and free-breathing. Four techniques for respiratory navigation, 2 conventional navigator techniques and 2 self-navigator techniques, were used for free-breathing imaging.

Results

Good navigator waveforms were obtained in conventional navigation, whereas fluctuations were evident in self navigation. All of the 4 navigator-based methods provided better images in terms of background signals and visual image quality compared with images obtained with no respiratory control. However, differences remained in comparison with breath-holding. Superiority of self-navigation to conventional navigation was not shown.

Conclusions

Navigator-gating techniques improved 2D SPGR images of the liver acquired during free-breathing, suggesting feasibility and beneficial effects, although navigator-based images were still inferior to breath-hold images.
Image Quality and Radiation Exposure Comparison of a Double High-Pitch Acquisition for Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography Versus Standard Retrospective Spiral Acquisition in Patients With Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Prazeres Carlos Eduardo Elias dos , Magalhães Tiago Augusto , de Castro Carneiro Adriano Camargo , Cury Roberto Caldeira , de Melo Moreira Valéria , Bello Juliana Hiromi Silva Matsumoto , Rochitte Carlos Eduardo
Published: April 2017

Objective

The aim of this study was to compare image quality and radiation dose of coronary computed tomography (CT) angiography performed with dual-source CT scanner using 2 different protocols in patients with atrial fibrillation.

Methods

Forty-seven patients with AF underwent 2 different acquisition protocols: double high-pitch (DHP) spiral acquisition and retrospective spiral acquisition. The image quality was ranked according to a qualitative score by 2 experts: 1, no evident motion; 2, minimal motion not influencing coronary artery luminal evaluation; and 3, motion with impaired luminal evaluation. A third expert solved any disagreement.

Results

A total of 732 segments were evaluated. The DHP group (24 patients, 374 segments) showed more segments classified as score 1 than the retrospective spiral acquisition group (71.3% vs 37.4%). Image quality evaluation agreement was high between observers (κ = 0.8). There was significantly lower radiation exposure for the DHP group (3.65 [1.29] vs 23.57 [10.32] mSv).

Conclusions

In this original direct comparison, a DHP spiral protocol for coronary CT angiography acquisition in patients with atrial fibrillation resulted in lower radiation exposure and superior image quality compared with conventional spiral retrospective acquisition.
Salicylic acid perturbs sRNA-gibberellin regulatory network in immune response of potato toPotato virus Yinfection
Authors: Križnik Maja , Petek Marko , Dobnik David , Ramšak Živa , Baebler Špela , Pollmann Stephan , Kreuze Jan , Žel Jana , Gruden Kristina
Published: April 2017

Potato virus Yis the most economically important potato viral pathogen. We aimed at unraveling the roles of small RNAs (sRNAs) in the complex immune signaling network controlling the establishment of tolerant response of potato cv. Désirée to the virus. We constructed a sRNA regulatory network connecting sRNAs and their targets to link sRNA level responses to physiological processes. We discovered an interesting novel sRNAs-gibberellin regulatory circuit being activated as early as 3 days post inoculation before viral multiplication can be detected. Increased levels of miR167 and phasiRNA931 were reflected in decreased levels of transcripts involved in gibberellin biosynthesis. Moreover, decreased concentration of gibberellin confirmed this regulation. The functional relation between lower activity of gibberellin signaling and reduced disease severity was previously confirmed in Arabidopsis-virus interaction using knockout mutants. We further showed that this regulation is salicylic acid-dependent as the response of sRNA network was attenuated in salicylic acid-depleted transgenic counterpart NahG-Désirée expressing severe disease symptoms. Besides downregulation of gibberellin signaling, regulation of several other parts of sRNA network in tolerant Désirée revealed similarities to responses observed in mutualistic symbiotic interactions. The intertwining of different regulatory networks revealed shows how developmental signaling, disease symptom development and stress signaling can be balanced.
Molecular mapping ofYrTZ2, a stripe rust resistance gene in wild emmer accession TZ-2 and its comparative analyses withAegilops tauschii
Authors: Wang Zhenzhong , Xie Jingzhong , Guo Li , Zhang Deyun , Li Genqiao , Fang Tilin , Chen Yongxing , Li Jun , Wu Qiuhong , Lu Ping , Wang Yong , Li Miaomiao , Wu Haibin , Zhang Yan , Yang Wuyun , Luo Ming-Cheng , Fahima Tzion , Liu Zhiyong
Published: April 2017

Wheat stripe rust, caused byPuccinia striiformisf. sp.tritici(Pst), is a devastating disease that can cause severe yield losses. Identification and utilization of stripe rust resistance genes are essential for effective breeding against the disease. Wild emmer accession TZ-2, originally collected from Mount Hermon, Israel, confers near-immunity resistance against several prevailingPstraces in China. A set of 200 F6:7recombinant inbred lines (RILs) derived from a cross between susceptible durum wheat cultivar Langdon and TZ-2 was used for stripe rust evaluation. Genetic analysis indicated that the stripe rust resistance of TZ-2 toPstrace CYR34 was controlled by a single dominant gene, temporarily designatedYrTZ2. Through bulked segregant analysis (BSA) and SSR mapping,YrTZ2was located on chromosome arm 1BS and flanked by SSR markersXwmc230andXgwm413with genetic distance of 0.8 cM (distal) and 0.3 cM (proximal), respectively. By applying wheat 90K iSelect SNP genotyping assay, 11 polymorphic loci (consist of 250 SNP markers) closely linked withYrTZ2were identified.YrTZ2was further delimited into a 0.8 cM genetic interval between SNP markerIWB19368and SSR markerXgwm413, and co-segregated with SNP markerIWB28744(attached with 28 SNP markers). Comparative genomics analyses revealed high level of collinearity between theYrTZ2genomic region and the orthologous region ofAegilops tauschii1DS. The genomic region between lociIWB19368andIWB31649harboringYrTZ2is orthologous to a 24.5 Mb genomic region between AT1D0112 and AT1D0150, spanning 15 contigs on chromosome 1DS. The genetic and comparative maps ofYrTZ2provide framework for map-based cloning and marker-assisted selection (MAS) ofYrTZ2.
Epigenetic Reprogramming of Tissue-Specific Transcription Promotes Metastasis
Authors: Teng Shuaishuai , Li Yang , Yang Ming , Qi Rui , Huang Yiming , Wang Qianyu , Li Shasha , Lin Kequan , Cheng Yujing , Lu Zhi John , Wang Dong
Published: April 2017

Tumor metastasis is the cause of death for 90% of cancer patients, and no currently-available therapies target this multi-step process in which cancer cells spread from the local tissue of a primary tumor to distant organs where they establish secondary tumors1. Although epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition2, tumor-secreted exosomes3, epigenetic regulators as well as other genes4-8have been implicated in metastasis, little is known about how cells adapt to and colonize new tissue environments. Here, we show that the epigenetics-mediated reprogramming of tissue-specific gene transcription in cancer cells promotes metastasis. Using colorectal cancer (CRC) as a model, we found in both clinical and cell line studies that metastatic CRC cells lose their colon-specific gene transcription program and gain a liver-specific gene transcription program as they metastasize in the liver. Further, we found this transcription reprogramming is driven by a reshaped epigenetic landscape of both typical and super-enhancers. Chemical inhibition of enhancer activity disrupts the ability of cells to execute altered transcription programs and consequently inhibits metastasis. Binding motif analysis of the enhancers in liver metastatic CRC cells identified the liver-specific transcription factor FOXA2 as a key regulator, and knocking down ofFOXA2expression prevents the colonization of metastatic CRC cells in the liver of a mice xenograft model. These results, together with additional observations of similar reprogramming in several cohorts of clinical CRC tumor samples and in multiple other forms of metastatic cancers, indicate that this reprogramming may be a common feature of metastasis in multiple cancers and suggest the targeted disruption of this epigenetic reprogramming as a strategy for the development of therapies to treat metastasis, the leading cause of cancer-related mortality.
Genotype-by-Environment Interactions Affecting Heterosis in Maize
Authors: Li Zhi , Coffey Lisa , Garfin Jacob , Miller Nathan D. , White Michael R. , Spalding Edgar P. , Leon Natalia de , Kaeppler Shawn M. , Schnable Patrick S. , Springer Nathan M. , Hirsch Candice N.
Published: April 2017

The environment can influence heterosis, the phenomena in which the offspring of two inbred parents exhibits phenotypic performance beyond the inbred parents for specific traits. In this study we measured 25 traits in a set of 47 maize hybrids and their inbred parents grown in 16 different environments, and each had varying levels of average productivity. By quantifying 25 vegetative and reproductive traits across the life cycle we were able to analyze interactions between the environment and multiple distinct instances of heterosis. The magnitude and rank among hybrids of better-parent heterosis (BPH) varied for the different traits and environments. Across the traits, a higher within plot variance was observed for inbred lines compared to hybrids. However, for most traits, variance across environments was not significantly different for inbred lines compared to hybrids. Further, for many traits the correlations of BPH to hybrid performance and BPH to better parent performance were of comparable magnitude. These results indicate that inbreds and hybrids are showing similar trends in environmental response and are both contribute to genotype-by-environment interactions for heterosis. This study highlights that degree of heterosis is not an inherent trait of a specific hybrid, but varies depending on the trait measured and the environment where that trait is measured. Studies that attempt to correlate molecular processes with heterosis are hindered by the fact that heterosis is not a consistent attribute of a specific hybrid.
Pepsi-SAXS: an adaptive method for rapid and accurate computation of small-angle X-ray scattering profiles
Authors: Grudinin Sergei , Garkavenko Maria , Kazennov Andrei
Published: April 2017

A new method calledPepsi-SAXSis presented that calculates small-angle X-ray scattering profiles from atomistic models. The method is based on the multipole expansion scheme and is significantly faster compared with other tested methods. In particular, using the Nyquist–Shannon–Kotelnikov sampling theorem, the multipole expansion order is adapted to the size of the model and the resolution of the experimental data. It is argued that by using the adaptive expansion order, this method has the same quadratic dependence on the number of atoms in the model as the Debye-based approach, but with a much smaller prefactor in the computational complexity. The method has been systematically validated on a large set of over 50 models collected from the BioIsis and SASBDB databases. Using a laptop, it was demonstrated thatPepsi-SAXSis about seven, 29 and 36 times faster compared withCRYSOL,FoXSand the three-dimensional Zernike method inSAStbx, respectively, when tested on data from the BioIsis database, and is about five, 21 and 25 times faster compared withCRYSOL,FoXSandSAStbx, respectively, when tested on data from SASBDB. On average,Pepsi-SAXSdemonstrates comparable accuracy in terms of χ2toCRYSOLandFoXSwhen tested on BioIsis and SASBDB profiles. Together with a small allowed variation of adjustable parameters, this demonstrates the effectiveness of the method.Pepsi-SAXSis available at http://team.inria.fr/nano-d/software/pepsi-saxs.
2-Isopropyl-4,7-dimethyl-1-nitronaphthalene
Authors: Benharref Ahmed , El Ammari Lahcen , Saadi Mohamed , Mazoir Noureddine , Daran Jean-Claude , Berraho Moha
Published: April 2017

All the non-H atoms of the title compound, C15H17NO2, except the CH3groups of the isopropyl unit and the O atoms of the nitro group, lie on a crystallographic mirror plane. The dihedral angle between the naphthalene plane and the nitro group is constrained to be 90° by symmetry. In the crystal, molecules are linked by π–π interactions [centroid–centroid separation = 3.6591 (4) Å] and stacked along theb-axis direction.
1-Allyl-2-methylpyridinium chloride
Authors: Bentivoglio Gino , Laus Gerhard , Kahlenberg Volker , Röder Thomas , Schottenberger Herwig
Published: April 2017

The title molecular salt, C9H12N+·Cl−, was obtained by reaction of 2-methylpyridine and allyl chloride. A network of C—H...Cl hydrogen bonds is observed in the crystal structure.
Repurchase decision for music products in Taiwan: physical versus online media
Authors: Wu ChienHsing , Tao Yu-Hui , Lin Yu-Min
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Consumer behaviors in internet are changing over time. The purpose of this paper is to propose and examine a research model that describes the repurchase behavior for the legal and paid music products of physical genre and online genre. The consumption value theory is used to develop the research model. Comparison of physical genre with online genre is presented. Implications and suggestions are addressed.

Design/methodology/approach

The research model is examined empirically. The research targeted music product consumers who had purchasing experience in the past one year. The research results are obtained, and the findings are revealed on the basis of 728 valid music product consumers.

Findings

The functional, emotional and epistemic value are the significant driving factors, though it shows a limited distinction for the two types. In comparing of the concepts of designed functional value, physical music consumers tend to have a stronger enthusiasm in music consumption. Social value and conditional value are not the predicators of repurchase satisfaction, implying that the music consumption is self-oriented for any normal amusement. The epistemic value shows significant on all levels of significance for the physical type, whereas insignificant if a = 0.01 for the type of online.

Originality/value

The research model is applied for the two contrariety product types, and to make a comparison, trying to understand the reasons why music fans are still willing to spend money on music products and what factors make them choose between product genres. After fluctuation and alternation of the music industry within this decade, this research provides a reference and correlated results for the future studies for the related studies, especially for the prosperous physical parallel imports items and online music.
Fast computation of accurate sphere-cube intersection volume
Authors: Jones Bruce D. , Williams John R.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Volume mapping of large spherical particles to a Cartesian grid with smaller grid elements is typically required in application of simple immersed boundary conditions in coupled engineering simulations. However, there exists no unique analytical solution to computation of the volume of intersection between spheres and cubes. The purpose of this paper is to determine a suitable solution to this problem depending on the required level of accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

In this work, existing numerical techniques for computing intersection volume are reviewed and compared in terms of accuracy and performance. In addition to this, a more efficient linear relationship is proposed and included in this comparison.

Findings

The authors find in this work that a simple linear relationship is both acceptably accurate and more computationally efficient than the contemporary techniques.

Originality/value

This simple linear approach may be applied to accurately compute solutions to fluid-particle systems with very large numbers of particles.
Applications of the symplectic method in quasi-static analysis for viscoelastic functionally graded materials
Authors: Zhang W.X. , Liu R.G. , Bai Y.
Published: April 2017

Purpose

For general quasi-static problems of viscoelastic functionally graded materials (VFGMs), the correspondence principle can be applied only for simple structures with a closed form solution of the corresponding elastic problem exists. In this paper, a new symplectic approach, according to the correspondence principle between linearly elastic and viscoelastic solids, is proposed for quasi-static VFGMs.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, by employing the method of separation of variables, all the fundamental eigenvectors of the governing equations are obtained analytically. Then, the satisfactions of boundary conditions prescribed on the ends and laterals are discussed based on the variable substitution and the eigenvector expansion methods.

Findings

In the numerical examples, some boundary condition problems are given. The results show the local effects due to the displacement constraints.

Originality/value

The paper provides an innovative technique for quasi-static problems of VFG Ms. Its correctness and the efficiency are well suported by numerical results.
Patch size setup and performance/cost trade-offs in multi-objective EM-driven antenna optimization using sequential domain patching
Authors: Koziel Slawomir , Bekasiewicz Adrian
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to assess control parameter setup and its effect on computational cost and performance of deterministic procedures for multi-objective design optimization of expensive simulation models of antenna structures.

Design/methodology/approach

A deterministic algorithm for cost-efficient multi-objective optimization of antenna structures has been assessed. The algorithm constructs a patch connecting extreme Pareto-optimal designs (obtained by means of separate single-objective optimization runs). Its performance (both cost- and quality-wise) depends on the dimensions of the so-called patch, an elementary region being relocated in the course of the optimization process. The cost/performance trade-offs are studied using two examples of ultra-wideband antenna structures and the optimization results are compared to draw conclusions concerning the algorithm robustness and determine the most advantageous control parameter setups.

Findings

The obtained results indicate that the investigated algorithm is very robust, i.e. its performance is weakly dependent on the control parameters setup. At the same time, it is found that the most suitable setups are those that ensure low computational cost, specifically non-uniform ones generated on the basis of sensitivity analysis.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides recommendations for control parameter setup of deterministic multi-objective optimization procedure for computationally efficient design of antenna structures. This is the first study of this kind for this particular design procedure, which confirms its robustness and determines the most suitable arrangement of the control parameters. Consequently, the presented results permit full automation of the surrogate-assisted multi-objective antenna optimization process while ensuring its lowest possible computational cost.

Originality/value

The work is the first comprehensive validation of the sequential domain patching algorithm under various scenarios of its control parameter setup. The considered design procedure along with the recommended parameter arrangement is a robust and computationally efficient tool for fully automated multi-objective optimization of expensive simulation models of contemporary antenna structures.
Application of computational fluid dynamics to predict hydrodynamic downpull on high head gates
Authors: Koken Mete , Aydin Ismail , Sahin Akis
Published: April 2017

Purpose

High head gates are commonly used in hydropower plants for flow regulation and emergence closure. Hydrodynamic downpull can be a critical parameter in design of the lifting mechanism. The purpose of this paper is to show that a simplified two-dimensional (2D) computational fluid dynamics solution can be used in the prediction of the downpull force on the gate lip by comparison of computed results to experimentally measured data.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, ANSYS FLUENT CFD software was used to obtain 2D numerical solution for the flow field around a generic gate model located in a power intake structure which was previously used in an experimental study. Description of the flow domain, computational grid resolution, requirements on setting appropriate boundary conditions and methodology in describing downpull coefficient are discussed. Total number of 245 simulations for variable gate lip geometry and gate openings were run. The downpull coefficient evaluated from the computed pressure field as function of gate opening and lip angle are compared with the experimental results.

Findings

The computed downpull coefficient agrees well with the previous experimental results, except one gate with small lip angle where a separation bubble forms along the lip, which is responsible from this deviation. It is observed that three-dimensional (3D) effects are confined to the large gate openings where downpull is minimum or even reversed.

Research limitations/implications

In large gate openings, three dimensionality of the flow around gate slots plays an important role and departure from 2D solutions become more pronounced. In that case, one might need to perform a 3D solution instead.

Practical implications

This paper presents a very fast and accurate way to predict downpull force on high head gates in the absence of experimental data.

Originality/value

An extensive amount of simulations are run within the scope of this study. It is shown that knowing its limitations, 2D numerical models can be used to calculate downpull for a wide range of gate openings without the need of expensive experimental models.
Pressure fluctuation characteristics in the sidewall gaps of a centrifugal dredging pump
Authors: Cao Lei , Xiao Yexiang , Wang Zhengwei , Luo Yongyao , Zhao Xiaoran
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the pressure fluctuation characteristics in the sidewall gaps of a centrifugal dredging pump in detail and discover the excitation sources.

Design/methodology/approach

An unsteady numerical simulation with shear–stress transport–scale-adaptive simulation (SAS-SST) model was conducted for a centrifugal pump considering the sidewall gaps. The numerical codes were validated by a model test carried out in China Water Resources Beifang Investigation, Design and Research Co., Ltd. Fast Fourier transform was used to obtain the frequency components of the pressure fluctuation.

Findings

Pressure fluctuation characteristics inside the pump were analyzed for a condition near the design point. In the sidewall gaps, the circumferential, radial and axial distribution of the pressure fluctuation amplitude follow different laws. The non-axisymmetrical distribution of pressure fluctuation in the sidewall gaps shows that the unsteady flow in the volute casing which has a non-axisymmetrical geometry imposes an evident effect on the flow field in the sidewall gaps and the interaction between the main flow and the clearance flow cannot be neglected. There are several frequency components appearing as the dominant frequencies at different locations in the sidewall gaps, but the relatively stronger pressure fluctuations are all dominated by the rotating frequency. It indicates that the rotating impeller, which originally makes the shrouds rotate, is the primarily excitation source of the pressure fluctuations in the sidewall gaps.

Originality/value

The pressure fluctuation characteristics in the sidewall gaps of centrifugal pumps were first comprehensively analyzed. Unsteady flows in the sidewall gaps should be considered during the design and operation of centrifugal pumps.
Productivity vs security: mitigating conflicting goals in organizations
Authors: Mayer Peter , Gerber Nina , McDermott Ronja , Volkamer Melanie , Vogt Joachim
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of goal setting in organizations, especially regarding the mitigation of conflicting productivity and security goals.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper describes the results of a survey with 200 German employees regarding the effects of goal setting on employees’ security compliance. Based on the survey results, a concept for setting information security goals in organizations building on actionable behavioral recommendations from information security awareness materials is developed. This concept was evaluated in three small- to medium-sized organizations (SMEs) with overall 90 employees.

Findings

The survey results revealed that the presence of rewards for productivity goal achievement is strongly associated with a decrease in security compliance. The evaluation of the goal setting concept indicates that setting their own information security goals is welcomed by employees.

Research limitations/implications

Both studies rely on self-reported data and are, therefore, likely to contain some kind of bias.

Practical implications

Goal setting in organizations has to accommodate for situations, where productivity goals constrain security policy compliance. Introducing the proposed goal setting concept based on relevant actionable behavioral recommendations can help mitigate issues in such situations.

Originality/value

This work furthers the understanding of the factors affecting employee security compliance. Furthermore, the proposed concept can help maximizing the positive effects of goal setting in organizations by mitigating the negative effects through the introduction of meaningful and actionable information security goals.
Managing information security awareness at an Australian bank: a comparative study
Authors: Pattinson Malcolm , Butavicius Marcus , Parsons Kathryn , McCormac Agata , Calic Dragana
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The aim of this study was first to confirm that a specific bank’s employees were generally more information security-aware than employees in other Australian industries and second to identify the major factors that contributed to this bank’s high levels of information security awareness (ISA).

Design/methodology/approach

A Web-based questionnaire (the Human Aspects of Information Security Questionnaire – HAIS-Q) was used in two separate studies to assess the ISA of individuals who used computers at their workplace. The first study assessed 198 employees at an Australian bank and the second study assessed 500 working Australians from various industries. Both studies used a Qualtrics-based questionnaire that was distributed via an email link.

Findings

The results showed that the average level of ISA among bank employees was consistently 20 per cent higher than that among general workforce participants in all focus areas and overall. There were no significant differences between the ISA scores for those who received more frequent training compared to those who received less frequent training. This result suggests that the frequency of training is not a contributing factor to an employee’s level of ISA.

Research limitations/implications

This current research did not investigate the information security (InfoSec) culture that prevailed within the bank in question because the objective of the research was to compare a bank’s employees with general workforce employees rather than compare organisations. The Research did not include questions relating to the type of training participants had received at work.

Originality/value

This study provided the bank’s InfoSec management with evidence that their multi-channelled InfoSec training regime was responsible for a substantially higher-than-average ISA for their employees. Future research of this nature should examine the effectiveness of various ISA programmes in light of individual differences and learning styles. This would form the basis of an adaptive control framework that would complement many of the current international standards, such as ISO’s 27000 series, NIST’s SP800 series and ISACA’s COBIT5.
Comparing three models to explain precautionary online behavioural intentions
Authors: Jansen Jurjen , van Schaik Paul
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare three social cognitive models in their ability to explain intentions of precautionary online behaviour. The models are: protection motivation theory (PMT), the reasoned action approach (RAA) and an integrated model comprising variables of these models.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 1,200 Dutch users of online banking by means of an online survey and analysed using partial least squares path modelling method.

Findings

The two models equally explain about much of the variance in precautionary online behaviour; in the integrated model, the significant predictors of the two models remained significant. Precautionary online behaviour is largely driven by response efficacy, attitude towards behaviour and self-efficacy.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation is that the predictor variables – “self-efficacy” and “attitude” – are represented by one item only in the path-analysis because of high cross-loadings of the other items with the dependent variable.

Practical implications

The results give practitioners a potentially wider range of options to design preventative measures.

Originality/value

The three models are successfully applied to online banking. This paper concludes that both PMT and RAA make a unique contribution in explaining variance for precautionary online behaviour. This paper is a re-publication of a previous conference paper (Jansen and van Schaik, 2016).
Social engineering defence mechanisms and counteracting training strategies
Authors: Schaab Peter , Beckers Kristian , Pape Sebastian
Published: April 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to outline strategies for defence against social engineering that are missing in the current best practices of information technology (IT) security. Reason for the incomplete training techniques in IT security is the interdisciplinary of the field. Social engineering is focusing on exploiting human behaviour, and this is not sufficiently addressed in IT security. Instead, most defence strategies are devised by IT security experts with a background in information systems rather than human behaviour. The authors aim to outline this gap and point out strategies to fill the gaps.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a literature review from viewpoint IT security and viewpoint of social psychology. In addition, they mapped the results to outline gaps and analysed how these gaps could be filled using established methods from social psychology and discussed the findings.

Findings

The authors analysed gaps in social engineering defences and mapped them to underlying psychological principles of social engineering attacks, for example, social proof. Furthermore, the authors discuss which type of countermeasure proposed in social psychology should be applied to counteract which principle. The authors derived two training strategies from these results that go beyond the state-of-the-art trainings in IT security and allow security professionals to raise companies’ bars against social engineering attacks.

Originality/value

The training strategies outline how interdisciplinary research between computer science and social psychology can lead to a more complete defence against social engineering by providing reference points for researchers and IT security professionals with advice on how to improve training.