bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2.1.2 The Middle‐out Systems Engineering for Gray‐Box Item and Case Study of Automotive Lock Housing Assembly
Authors: Lee Joongyoon , Kim Sung Tae
Published: October 2015

Lock housing assembly is a vehicle component which is designed and manufactured by a 2nd tier supplier of a car maker. This paper showed a middle‐out systems engineering approach for a gray box item development. In the case of gray box item development, the communication between a car maker and suppliers is a key success factor to overcome unclear and unbalanced design responsibility from the viewpoint of supplier. To show the middle‐out systems engineering process, this paper addressed the development of a magnesium lock housing assembly. This project used some methodologies such as Quality Function Deployment (hereafter QFD) and functional flow diagram etc. to enhance communication capabilities. The customer requirements were developed with QFD while functional flow diagram was used to derive quality control parameters.
2.3.2 Reducing the Effort for LCC Evaluation and Optimization
Authors: Broodney Henry , Masin Michael , Mashkif Nir , Miano Candace
Published: October 2015

Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is making its way into the design processes of many Systems builders. As with many other disciplines, MBSE can greatly benefit from the principles of reuse, but the very term assumes the existence of a large number of available models which may not be available due to the newness of MBSE activities. There exists, however, a great capital of artifacts from other domains, which Systems Engineering relates to and can leverage. This paper explores several practical examples of such approaches in the context of an architecture affordability study, reducing the effort and time required to identify a preferred architecture solution that is optimal for a given set of metrics including life cycle cost and system availability.
3.1.2 Lifecycle Verification of a System of Systems
Authors: Hatchell Brian , Mauss Fredrick , Silvers Kurt
Published: October 2015

System‐level verification is intended to check that the system satisfies a set of requirements. The verification of a system of systems (SoS) is more difficult for a number of reasons. In a SoS, multiple organizations are involved, and there may be no overall project manager. It may be necessary to develop new systems that integrate with legacy systems that cannot be modified. Finally, the separate systems within a SoS can have separate development processes and schedules. New methods of system engineering (SE) processes are needed to deal with the verification of SoS. This paper reviews how V‐Models have been used to visualize the SE process for SoS. For the common situation of a SoS consisting of only two systems, an intersecting V‐Model is suggested, followed by a discussion of important factors to consider when verifying a SoS, including configuration management, integrated master schedule development, lifecycle simulation, and test system design. These considerations are illuminated by describing the verification of a SoS consisting of an asset health monitoring system and data download software. The tradeoffs of using hardware versus software approaches to lifecycle simulation are presented. The paper concludes with an overview of lessons learned for future SoS development.
4.3.2 Tradeoff Study Cascading Mistakes of Omission and Commission
Authors: Parnell Gregory S. , Cilli Matthew V. , Buede Dennis
Published: October 2015

Tradeoff studies are a critical tool to provide information to support decision making for discipline engineers, systems engineers, and program managers throughout the system life cycle. Unfortunately, the quality of tradeoff studies is typically inconsistent between organizations and within organizations. This paper reports on part of an INCOSE effort to improve tradeoff studies. Using the proposed INCOSE Decision Management Process, aligned with ISO/IEC 15288, we identify and discuss the most common tradeoff study mistakes of omission and commission. The mistakes of omission are errors made by not doing the right things. The mistakes of commission are errors made by doing the right things the wrong way. In addition, we show how these mistakes can cascade into multiple mistakes with significant consequences to the decision makers, stakeholders, and the system. By using the Decision Management Process and avoiding these mistakes, we significantly increase the quality of the tradeoff study and avoid adverse consequences.
5.3.1 Applying Meta‐analysis in Support of Systems Thinking
Authors: Licklider Christy A. R. , Henderson Steven J.
Published: October 2015

Systems thinking helps facilitate the understanding of systems, their structure, and important interrelationships with their environments. As such, systems thinking is an important aspect of systems engineering and other related fields. However, certain large‐scale, complex systems can thwart systems thinking due to their vast size and morass of interactions.

Moreover, many such systems accumulate a large body of research that can yield seemingly contradictory inputs into the systems thinking process. In this paper, we advocate the use of statistical meta‐analysis to augment systems thinking about such systems. Our approach, which we describe as Meta‐analysis in support of Systems Thinking (MAST), maps standard outputs from meta‐analysis to systems thinking constructs. We demonstrate our approach to an actual systems thinking problem involving the United States (US) active duty military's personnel retention system. We include a critique of our approach and guidelines for its application to other systems.
6.3.2 Program Protection, for All Industries, and Provided by Systems Engineers
Authors: Maziarz John A. , Hamilton Booz Allen
Published: October 2015

Program Protection, also known as System Protection, System Security, or Program Security, has been of interest in the United States Department of Defense for many years. The concerns that Program Protection addresses, espionage (keeping sensitive information from getting out) and sabotage (keeping bad materials from getting in), should also be concerns beyond the United States military. Not only should other United States Government agencies worry about these two items for their systems, so should commercial businesses, and so should governments and industries outside of the United States. Because of its pervasive nature, Program Protection should be the domain of systems engineers, who can integrate Program Protection into systems, as well as integrate the various disciplines within Program Protection.
8.1.2 Quantifying the Value of Flexibility in Design and Management of Onshore LNG Production System
Authors: Cardin Michel‐Alexandre , Bourani Mehdi Ranjbar , Deng Yinghan , de Neufville Richard , Atapattu Ravindu , Sheng Xiaoxia , Foo Kok Seng
Published: October 2015

This paper presents the results of an analysis focusing on the evaluation of a large‐scale onshore liquefied natural gas (LNG) project under market uncertainty and flexibility. Market studies have shown increasing trends in LNG demand in the next few decades in the transportation sector. A proprietary technology has been developed as a solution for offshore associated gas applications for small‐to‐medium scale capacity (~0.2 to 1 million ton per annum or MPTA). This technology is also suitable for onshore micro‐LNG applications as a company is evaluating business opportunities in the transportation industry. This study is concerned with the long‐term design and deployment of the technology in a growing market to provide LNG for transportation purposes. There are currently two designs considered: 1) small micro‐LNG production facilities combined with fueling stations, and 2) a big centralized production facility with satellite fueling stations along the pipeline. A third design alternative is developed based on a flexible phasing deployment strategy to improve the economic performance in comparison with other design strategies. To compare the design alternatives under uncertainty, a structured methodology is introduced and applied based on several economic lifecycle performance indicators (e.g. Net Present Value, Initial Capital Expenditure (CAPEX), etc.). Different demand scenarios are incorporated explicitly in the project evaluation procedure. The final results demonstrate about 36% value improvement for the flexible design as compared to a centralized inflexible design strategy, increasing as uncertainty in parameter estimation increases. A Graphical User Interface (GUI) is developed to simplify evaluation procedures, and provide better support for decision‐making and dissemination across a major company's activities. The flexible design helps deliver more value to the clients.
8.2.2 On the Efficacy of Student Teams in Engineering: An Assessment of Individual Learning in Collaborative Projects
Authors: DeFranco Joanna F. , Neill Colin J.
Published: October 2015

The scale, complexity, and multi‐disciplinarity of systems engineering projects almost necessitate that systems engineers work in teams and that those teams are effective. Consequently, systems engineering students can expect to participate in a number of team projects during their academic careers. It is also reasonable that students can expect their effort on teams to contribute meaningfully to their individual course learning. We have developed a guidance framework that facilitates effective collaboration on teams and previously demonstrated its efficacy in team mental model convergence and its concomitant improvement in team project outcomes. In this study we investigate whether those improved team outcomes lead to an improvement in individual learning as should occur if there is team learning. We determined that this is not the case. The implications of this result are potentially troubling not only from an academic standpoint, since it challenges the validity of student teams in some cases, but also with respect to the professional development programs in place at many engineering companies. These programs are often team‐oriented with the intent of not only developing effective team players, but also in developing proficient engineers and the latter objective may be threatened.
9.3.2 The Use of Models across the Contractual Boundary: Past, Present and Future
Authors: Do Quoc , Cook Stephen , Fossnes Terje , Haskins Cecilia
Published: October 2015

Model‐Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices have been gathering momentum for over 20 years and are seen as the future of systems engineering. MBSE formalises the practice of systems engineering through the use of models and its aim is to overcome the limitations inherent in describing complex systems and their development and sustainment using documents. However, certain project practices, in particular the tendering and contracting processes, are still strongly tied to the use of documents. This paper identifies the challenges that need to be addressed to use MBSE across the contractual interface in a competitive tendering environment. The focus is on the transition of models created by the customer (acquirer) during the capability definition phase to the supplier both during the tendering process and through the systems architectural design and development phases. The paper unfolds with a literature survey and then progresses to surface key insights and challenges for the adoption of model‐centric acquisition, looking into the past, present and future from the Australian and Norwegian defence perspectives. This is supplemented through case studies involving the utilisation of RDD‐100 for model‐centric acquisition of Frigates by the Royal Norwegian Navy and through ongoing research by the Australian Defence Science and Technology Organisation, and the Defence and Systems Innovation Centre. The paper concludes with a summary of the achievements to date and the challenges to be addressed in order to enable and foster the widespread adoption of model‐centric tendering and equipment acquisition.
Optimized Mn‐doped iron oxide nanoparticles entrapped in dendrimer for dual contrasting role in MRI
Authors: Haribabu Viswanathan , Farook Abubacker Sulaiman , Goswami Nirmalya , Murugesan Ramachandran , Girigoswami Agnishwar
Published: October 2015

Magnetic resonance imaging has acquired importance as a major tool for diagnosis and staging of cancers in humans. Injection of certain imaging agents have proved to improve contrast between normal and cancer cells on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Using the principles of MR contrast imaging, we have designed a dual mode (T1 and T2) contrast agent based on folic acid functionalized manganese ferrite nanoparticles (MNP) entrapped in 3G polyamidoamide (PAMAM) dendrimers. The ratio of Mn:Fe was tuned to achieve optimal performance. This multifunctional nanocarrier system was developed for targeting cancer cells to produce both T1 and T2 contrast which in turn helps in better diagnosis and staging of cancer. FTIR spectroscopy, X‐Ray diffraction, atomic absorption spectroscopy, UV‐Visible spectroscopy, and dynamic light scattering measurements were employed to characterize the multifunctional system at different stages of engineering. The ratio of relaxivities r2/r1 is 4.6 at 1.5 T for the MNP prepared with 0.5 molar ratio of Mn/Fe based on MR images obtained from phantom and tumor bearing mouse. The value of r2/r1 shows that the 0.5 molar ratio of Mn/Fe can be used to prepare MNP for the production of dual mode contrast in MR imaging. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 104B: 817–824, 2016.
Managing IT business risk
Authors: Barnier Brian
Published: October 2015

Companies increasingly depend on their information technology (IT) systems to achieve their business objectives. At the same time, companies are also more concerned about risks that endanger their performance—and can endanger critical IT systems. There are many risks, including global financial crises, earthquakes, political unrest, damaged undersea cables, the loss of critical knowledge as employees leave, and more. So what are the best ways for companies to manage these potentially devastating IT risks? And what are the roles of top management and financial management? © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Organizational change management is a two‐way street
Authors: Worster Art , Weirich Thomas R. , Andera Frank
Published: October 2015

Business is filled with horror stories about cost overruns and lack of business benefits from implemen‐tations of enterprise software, including SAP. The rapid proliferation of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems like SAP began two decades ago. Since then, a number of tools and literature have been developed to help identify, address, and resolve the challenges inherent in these systems. Yet, in many cases, we still have the same problems. We seem unable to prevent disappointments, if not fi‐nancial disasters. And for many companies that installed SAP years ago, the expected benefits have not appeared. What can we do to correct these problems? © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Multiparticle moves in acceptance rate optimized monte carlo
Authors: Neumann Tobias , Danilov Denis , Wenzel Wolfgang
Published: October 2015

Molecular Dynamics (MD) and Monte Carlo (MC) based simulation methods are widely used to investigate molecular and nanoscale structures and processes. While the investigation of systems in MD simulations is limited by very small time steps, MC methods are often stifled by low acceptance rates for moves that significantly perturb the system. In many Metropolis MC methods with hard potentials, the acceptance rate drops exponentially with the number of uncorrelated, simultaneously proposed moves. In this work, we discuss a multiparticle Acceptance Rate Optimized Monte Carlo approach (AROMoCa) to construct collective moves with near unit acceptance probability, while preserving detailed balance even for large step sizes. After an illustration of the protocol, we demonstrate that AROMoCa significantly accelerates MC simulations in four model systems in comparison to standard MC methods. AROMoCa can be applied to all MC simulations where a gradient of the potential is available and can help to significantly speed up molecular simulations. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Acculturative Stress, Self‐Esteem, and Eating Pathology in Latina and Asian American Female College Students
Authors: Claudat Kimberly , White Emily K. , Warren Cortney S.
Published: October 2015

Objective

The overarching purpose of this study was to explore the relationships among acculturative stress, self‐esteem, and eating pathology in Asian American and Latina female college students.

Method

Participants (N = 638, mean age = 19.88) completed self‐report measures of the variables of interest online.

Results

Bivariate correlations indicated that for women of both ethnic groups, acculturative stress was negatively correlated with self‐esteem and positively correlated with eating pathology. Multigroup structural equation modeling indicated that for Asian American and Latina women, self‐esteem partially mediated the relationship between acculturative stress and eating pathology. However, self‐esteem did not serve as a significant moderator of this relationship for either ethnic group.

Conclusion

Overall, data suggest that acculturative stress is associated with increased eating pathology and self‐esteem may mediate this relationship. These relationships suggest that assessment of eating pathology and self‐esteem may be indicated for women presenting clinically with acculturative stress concerns.
MINORITY IN THE MAJORITY: COMMUNITY ETHNICITY AS A CONTEXT FOR RACIAL BULLYING AND VICTIMIZATION
Authors: Schumann Lyndall , Craig Wendy , Rosu Andrei
Published: October 2015

The present study explored the relationships between individual ethnicity and community ethnicity factors and the prevalence of racial bullying. It was hypothesized that individuals belonging to the majority ethnic group in a community were less racially victimized than in a community in which they were minority members. Data were collected from 20,021 students in Grades 6 to 10 as part of the 2009/2010 Health Behaviour in School‐aged Children Survey, from Geographical Information Systems data, and from census data. Community diversity was associated with prevalence of racial victimization, although relationships differed by type of religious organization. Those of East/Southeast Asian, Caucasian, and South Asian ethnicity were more likely to be racially victimized in communities in which they were the minority ethnic group than when they were in the majority group. The importance of considering ethnicity characteristics that are related to racially focused bullying in the community context is discussed.
SAME‐SEX PARTNERSHIPS AND THE HEALTH OF OLDER ADULTS
Authors: Williams Mark Edward , Fredriksen‐Goldsen Karen I.
Published: October 2015

While extensive research has examined associations between marriage, cohabitation, and the health of heterosexual adults, it remains unclear whether similar patterns of health are associated with same‐sex partnerships for lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) older adults. This article examines whether having a same‐sex partner is associated with general self‐reported health and depressive symptoms for LGB older adults. Based on survey data collected from LGB adults 50 years of age and older, having a same‐sex partner was associated with better self‐reported health and fewer depressive symptoms when compared with single LGB older adults, controlling for gender, age, education, income, sexuality, and relationship duration. Relationship duration did not significantly impact the association between partnership status and health. In light of recent public debates and changes in policies regarding same‐sex partnerships, more socially integrated relationship statuses appear to play a role in better health for LGB older adults.
Enhance patient safety by identifying and minimizing risk exposures affecting nurse practitioner practice
Authors: Leigh June , Flynn Jennifer
Published: October 2015

A study analyzing closed professional liability claims against nurse practitioners over a 5‐year period was completed by CNA and Nurses Service Organization (NSO). Of 200 closed claims, the average total incurred payment per claim was $285 645. The study identifies current liability patterns and trends and provides risk‐control recommendations to enhance patient safety and minimize liability exposure. Study results indicate that while the number of nurse practitioner claims have been relatively stable over the past 5 years (2007–2011), the number of claims resulting in very severe indemnity payment have increased 19% since 2009. The data also show that many claims develop from a failure involving core competencies, such as treatment and care management, and medication prescribing. Allegations related to failure to diagnose and delay in making a correct diagnosis were found most frequently. The claims demonstrate that nurse practitioners are responsible for obtaining and documenting the results of appropriate tests, consultations, and overall need for medical intervention to meet the patient's medical needs.
Evaluation of optimized breath‐hold and free‐breathing 3D ultrashort echo time contrast agent‐free MRI of the human lung
Authors: Gai Neville D. , Malayeri Ashkan , Agarwal Harsh , Evers Robert , Bluemke David
Published: October 2015

Purpose

To evaluate an optimized stack of radials ultrashort echo time (UTE) 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequence for breath‐hold and free‐breathing imaging of the human lung.

Materials and Methods

A 3D stack of ultrashort echo time radials trajectory was optimized for coronal and axial lower‐resolution breath‐hold and higher‐resolution free‐breathing scans using Bloch simulations. The sequence was evaluated in 10 volunteers, without the use of contrast agents. Signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) mean and 95% confidence interval (CI) were determined from separate signal and noise images in a semiautomated fashion. The four scanning schemes were evaluated for significant differences in image quality using Student's t‐test. Ten clinical patients were scanned with the sequence and findings were compared with concomitant computed tomography (CT) in nine patients. Breath‐hold 3D spokes images were compared with 3D stack of radials in five volunteers. A Mann–Whitney U‐test was performed to test significance in both cases.

Results

Breath‐hold imaging of the entire lung in volunteers was performed with SNR (mean = 42.5 [CI]: 35.5–49.5; mean = 34.3 [CI]: 28.6–40) in lung parenchyma for coronal and axial scans, respectively, which can be used as a quick scout scan. Longer respiratory triggered free‐breathing scan enabled high‐resolution UTE scanning with mean SNR of 14.2 ([CI]: 12.9–15.5) and 9.2 ([CI]: 8.2–10.2) for coronal and axial scans, respectively. Axial free‐breathing scans showed significantly higher image quality (P = 0.008) than the three other scanning schemes. The mean score for comparison with CT was 1.67 (score 0: n = 0; 1: n = 3; 2: n = 6). There was no significant difference between CT and MRI (P = 0.25). 3D stack of radials images were significantly better than 3D spokes images (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The optimized 3D stack of radials trajectory was shown to provide high‐quality MR images of the lung parenchyma without the use of MRI contrast agents. The sequence may offer the possibility of breath‐hold imaging and provides greater flexibility in trading off slice thickness and parallel imaging for scan time. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2016;43:1230–1238.
Molecular epidemiology of Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever in Bulgaria—An update
Authors: Papa Anna , Pappa Styliani , Panayotova Elitsa , Papadopoulou Elpida , Christova Iva
Published: October 2015

Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is endemic in Bulgaria. During 2013–2014, 11 confirmed CCHF cases have been reported in the country (seven in 2013 and four in 2014). The present study provides the CCHF molecular epidemiology in Bulgaria based on all currently available S, M, and L RNA segment nucleotide sequences spanning the years 1978–2014. A relatively low genetic difference (0–6%, the maximum seen in the M RNA segment) was seen among the CCHFV sequences suggesting that a slow evolving CCHFV strain belonging to “Europe 1” clade is present in Bulgaria. Although the virus emerged in new foci during the recent years, it is more active in the established endemic foci which seem to offer the most suitable ecosystem and environment. Understanding the CCHF epidemiology and virus evolution is the basis for public health programs and vaccine design. J. Med. Virol. 88:769–773, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Real‐time polymerase chain reaction for diagnosing infectious mononucleosis in pediatric patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jiang Sha‐Yi , Yang Jing‐Wei , Shao Jing‐Bo , Liao Xue‐Lian , Lu Zheng‐Hua , Jiang Hui
Published: October 2015

In this meta‐analysis, we evaluated the diagnostic role of Epstein‐Barr virus deoxyribonucleic acid detection and quantitation in the serum of pediatric and young adult patients with infectious mononucleosis. The primary outcome of this meta‐analysis was the sensitivity and specificity of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) detection and quantitation using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A systematic review and meta‐analysis was performed by searching for articles that were published through September 24, 2014 in the following databases: Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Google Scholar. The following keywords were used for the search: “Epstein‐Barr virus,” “infectious mononucleosis,” “children/young adults/infant/pediatric,” and “polymerase chain reaction or PCR.” Three were included in this analysis. We found that for detection by PCR, the pooled sensitivity for detecting EBV DNA was 77% (95%CI, 66–86%) and the pooled specificity for was 98% (95%CI, 93–100%). Our findings indicate that this PCR‐based assay has high specificity and good sensitivity for detecting of EBV DNA, indicating it may useful for identifying patients with infectious mononucleosis. This assay may also be helpful to identify young athletic patients or highly physically active pediatric patients who are at risk for a splenic rupture due to acute infectious mononucleosis. J. Med. Virol. 88:871–876, 2016. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Virtual and Face‐to‐Face Teamwork Differences in Culturally Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Teams
Authors: Takeuchi June , Kass Steven J. , Schneider Sherry K. , VanWormer Lisa
Published: October 2015

Performance on a decision‐making task and cohesion were examined in dyadic (two‐person) teams. A total of 118 university students in the United States and Japan participated in the study and were placed in either homogeneous (American–American or Asian–Asian) or heterogeneous (American–Asian) teams, based on whether they were raised in the United States or in an Asian country. Teams worked either face‐to‐face or via videoconferencing (i.e., virtual teams) and performed a hidden profile task simulating a personnel selection process (i.e., ranking candidates). American–American teams and American–Asian teams outperformed Asian–Asian teams regardless of whether they worked face‐to‐face or virtually. Team cohesion results mirrored the performance results. The findings suggest that individuals from Asian cultures may require more time to form a cohesive and high‐performing team.
Probiotic Dahi containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum modulates immunoglobulin levels and cytokines expression in whey proteins sensitised mice
Authors: Shandilya Umesh Kumar , Sharma Ankita , Kapila Rajeev , Kansal Vinod Kumar
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND

Cow milk allergy is the most common food allergy in children. So far, no effective treatment is available to prevent or cure food allergy. This study investigated whether orally administrated probiotics could suppress sensitisation in whey proteins (WP)‐induced allergy mouse model. Two types of probiotic Dahi were prepared by co‐culturing Dahi bacteria (Lactococcus lactis ssp. cremoris NCDC‐86 and Lactococcus lactis ssp. lactis biovar diacetylactis NCDC‐60) along with selected strain of Lactobacillus acidophilus LaVK2 and Bifidobacterium bifidum BbVK3. Mice were fed with probiotic Dahi (La‐Dahi and LaBb‐Dahi) from 7 days before sensitisation with WP, respectively, in addition to milk protein‐free basal diet, and control group received no supplements.

RESULTS

Feeding of probiotic Dahi suppressed the elevation of whey proteins‐specific IgE and IgG response of WP‐sensitised mice. In addition, sIgA levels were significantly (P < 0.001) increased in intestinal fluid collected from mice fed with La‐Dahi. Production of T helper (Th)‐1 cell‐specific cytokines, i.e. interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), interleukin (IL)‐12, and IL‐10 increased, while Th2‐specific cytokines, i.e. IL‐4 decreased in the supernatant of cultured splenocytes collected from mice fed with probiotic Dahi as compared to the other groups. Moreover, the splenic mRNA levels of IFN‐γ, interleukin‐10 were found to be significantly increased, while that of IL‐4 decreased significantly in La‐Dahi groups, as compared to control groups.

CONCLUSION

Results of the present study indicate that probiotic Dahi skewed Th2‐specific immune response towards Th1‐specific response and suppressed IgE in serum. Collectively, this study shows the potential use of probiotics intervention in reducing the allergic response to whey proteins in mice. © 2015 Society of Chemical Industry
Surgical management of ovarian carcinoma metastatic to the breast and axilla: A role for metastasectomy?
Authors: Rossfeld Kara K. , Carson William E.
Published: October 2015

As patients with ovarian cancer are living longer, surgeons will be faced with the management of metastatic lesions amenable to resection more frequently. We present two patients with ovarian cancer metastatic to the breast who underwent resection for their metastases, but their outcomes differed significantly. After reviewing the literature, we propose that there can be definite benefit to resection in the appropriately selected patients and discuss factors to consider prior to proceeding with surgery. J. Surg. Oncol. 2015;112:581–584. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Examining Information and Knowledge Processes to Enhance Best Practices in Agile Knowledge Intensive Environments
Authors: Israilidis John , Jackson Thomas
Published: October 2015

This paper examines the information and knowledge processes of one of the largest innovative and agile computer software organisations in the world. The aim of this research is to increase the performance of the employees at the case study organisation by learning lessons from previous implemented knowledge strategies that have failed. The research methods used are based on a positivism approach to reduce potential bias views of employees and an interpretivist approach to add richness and depth to the collected data. The findings of the study suggest that the company should stop investing in building asynchronous teaching learning environments to aid knowledge management but turn to more traditional methods outlined in this paper. The overall results confirmed the need for a robust communication strategy to enhance the information and knowledge process within the agile knowledge intensive organisation. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and commercialization of GLA safflower oil
Authors: Flider Frank J.
Published: October 2015

GLA safflower oil is a new commercial source of gamma‐linolenic acid (GLA), an important dietary omega‐6 fatty acid with properties similar and complementary to those of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). In its native form, GLA safflower oil contains 60–70+% GLA. It is one of the first dietary supplements developed using modern biotechnology methods and is the first of a new generation of genetically modified (GM) plant oil ingredients developed solely for improvement of human health and nutrition.
Structure of the human milk fat globule
Authors: Garcia Cyrielle , Innis Sheila
Published: October 2015

Milk is a sophisticated oil‐in‐water emulsion in which triacylglycerols, the single largest component of the infant's energy supply, are enclosed by an unusual trimolecular layer of polar lipids, proteins and cholesterol. Recently, interest has turned to the possibility that not just the membrane components and triacylglycerol fatty acids, but also their unusual structures may be particular features that enable delivery of intact bioactive molecules to the intestine, while facilitating efficient absorption and processing of milk fats, without metabolic stress. These features mean that the functional properties of milk fats are not replicated by mixtures of vegetable oils and emulsifiers and may be lost by processing. However, they offer opportunities for use of milk fat globule membranes and triacylglycerols structured to resemble milk fats.
Organic matter carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorous from a single persulfate digestion
Authors: Gibson C. A. , O'Reilly C. M. , Conine A. L. , Jobs W. , Belli S.
Published: October 2015

Ecological stoichiometry requires accurate measurement of carbon : nitrogen : phosphorus ratios in organic matter. Currently, carbon : nitrogen : phosphorus ratios are typically determined by analyzing one sample for carbon : nitrogen and another sample for percent phosphorus. Not only does this approach require multiple samples and accurate sample weights, but it also obscures natural variability. We developed a method which allows us to obtain carbon : nitrogen : phosphorus ratios from a single, small sample of organic matter. The analysis consists of a single persulfate digestion in sealed vials that converts the organic carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) to carbon dioxide gas (CO2), nitrate ion, and phosphate ion. The combination of 3% persulfate in 0.15 M NaOH provides a digestion that is initially alkaline but becomes acidic after about 30 min. In the final acidic solution, CO2 is driven into the vial headspace and is measured on a gas chromatograph‐mass spectrometer. Nitrate and phosphate are measured on an ion chromatograph and by using standard colorimetric methods, respectively. We assessed the method by evaluating recovery of C, N, and P from chemical standards and by comparing values obtained with this method to those obtained by current, conventional methods. We used cultured algae and pond seston on filters, leaf litter, and zooplankton samples for the method comparisons. The method is precise at low mass; we were able to confidently measure C : N : P ratios on individual Daphnia magna. The method showed high recovery for standards and produced C : N : P ratio values similar to those found by other analytical approaches and to values in the literature.
Oxide scale exfoliation and regrowth in TP347H superheater tubes
Authors: Sabau A. S. , Wright I. G. , Shingledecker J. P.
Published: October 2015

This paper provides an introduction to a comprehensive model being developed to predict and control oxide scale exfoliation from the steam‐side of superheater and reheater tubes in steam boilers. The model deals with the main phenomena involved in scale growth and failure in steam, and incorporates major variables related to boiler design and operation. The considerations used to calculate oxide growth under the specific constrains of small diameter tubes carrying high‐pressure steam and operating with large temperature gradients under temperature and pressure cycling conditions, as well as the evolution of stresses and strains in the scales, are indicated but only a cursory description is given of the details of the analytical treatments. An example is presented of calculations made with the model to predict the extent of blockage expected in a single superheater loop as a function of time and outlet steam temperature under several realistic service conditions. The results suggest that problems due to scale exfoliation would be expected early in the operating life of superheater tubes made from austenitic steel TP347H.
Analysis of the parameters affecting probabilistic predictions of initiation time for carbonation‐induced corrosion of reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Lollini F. , Redaelli E. , Bertolini L.
Published: October 2015

Probabilistic approaches are available for service life design of reinforced concrete structures subjected to reinforcement corrosion. The International Federation for Structural Concrete (fib) has proposed a model code where design equations and related parameters, involving materials properties, exposure conditions and construction details, are reported. This paper investigates the role of design parameters in the prediction of service life by applying the fib design procedure to existing structures suffering carbonation‐induced corrosion. Results of the modelling were compared to results of the inspection and a significant difference was observed. In order to investigate the reasons for this difference, the roles of concrete cover thickness and carbonation depth were considered separately in the modelling of service life. The concrete cover thickness had a significant effect on the output of the service life modelling, which however was not sufficient to explain the discrepancy between in situ and modelling results. The modelled values of carbonation depth were also affected by errors; sensitivity analysis showed that, although some parameters had higher influence than others, no single parameter had a predominant role.
Covercrete with hybrid functions – A novel approach to durable reinforced concrete structures
Authors: Tang L. , Zhang E. Q. , Fu Y. , Schouenborg B. , Lindqvist J. E.
Published: October 2015

Due to the corrosion of steel in reinforced concrete structures, the concrete with low water–cement ratio (w/c), high cement content, and large cover thickness is conventionally used for prolonging the passivation period of steel. Obviously, this conventional approach to durable concrete structures is at the sacrifice of more CO2 emission and natural resources through consuming higher amount of cement and more constituent materials, which is against sustainability. By placing an economically affordable conductive mesh made of carbon fiber or conductive polymer fiber in the near surface zone of concrete acting as anode we can build up a cathodic prevention system with intermittent low current density supplied by, e.g., the solar cells. In such a way, the aggressive negative ions such as Cl−, ${\rm CO}_{3}^{2- } $, and ${\rm SO}_{4}^{2- } $ can be stopped near the cathodic (steel) zone. Thus the reinforcement steel is prevented from corrosion even in the concrete with relatively high w/c and small cover thickness. This conductive mesh functions not only as electrode, but also as surface reinforcement to prevent concrete surface from cracking. Therefore, this new type of covercrete has hybrid functions. This paper presents the theoretical analysis of feasibility of this approach and discusses the potential durability problems and possible solutions to the potential problems.
Effect of Fe and partial pressure of oxygen on the formation and phase transformation behavior of Al2O3 scale
Authors: Hayashi S. , Takada Y. , Saeki I. , Yamauchi A. , Nishiyama Y. , Doi T. , Kyo S. , Sato M.
Published: October 2015

The effect of oxygen partial pressure on the phase transformation of Al2O3 scale on various Fe–Al alloys with and without very thin (∼100 nm) Fe coating was investigated. Fe‐coating on Fe–Al alloys can effectively suppress metastable Al2O3 formation, but little effect was observed when the samples were oxidized in a low partial pressure of oxygen. Under the low ${\rm P}_{{\rm O}_{{\rm 2}} } $ atmosphere, metastable to stable α‐Al2O3 scale phase transformation on both Fe‐coated and non‐coated Fe–Al alloys was significantly delayed. The lattice spacing of α‐Al2O3 scale formed in air decreased with increasing alloy Al content. Further decrease in the lattice spacing of α‐Al2O3 scale was observed when the alloy was oxidized in low ${\rm P}_{{\rm O}_{{\rm 2}} } $. The results obtained clearly indicated that the formation of Fe2O3 or Fe3+ in metastable Al2O3 accelerated the metastable to stable α‐Al2O3 scale transformation.
Oxide growth stress measurements and relaxation mechanisms for alumina scales grown on FeCrAlY
Authors: Tortorelli P. F. , Specht E. D. , More K. L. , Hou P. Y.
Published: October 2015

Early‐stage tensile stress evolution in α‐Al2O3 scales during oxidation of FeCrAlY at 1000, 1050, 1100, and 1200 °C was monitored in situ by use of synchrotron radiation. Tensile stress development as a function of oxidation temperature indicated a dynamic interplay between stress generation and relaxation. An analysis of the time dependence of the data indicated that the observed relaxation of the initial tensile stress in the oxide scales at 1100 and 1200 °C is dominated by creep in the α‐Al2O3. A thin layer of a (Fe,Cr,Al) oxide was observed at the oxide‐gas interface, consistent with a mechanism whereby the conversion of (Fe,Cr,Al)2O3 to α‐Al2O3 produces an initial tensile stress in the alumina scale.
Prescriptive versus performance approaches for durability design – The end of innocence?
Authors: Hooton R. D. , Bickley J. A.
Published: October 2015

Most concrete specifications tend to be prescriptive in nature and this can prevent concrete producers from optimizing their mixtures for local materials, and confuses the responsibility for the in‐place performance of a structure. While it is generally agreed that performance is a superior way to specify concrete since it should clarify responsibilities and allow for innovation, many parties to construction are leery of adopting performance specifications. One of the major concerns is related to the lack of adequate performance tests and specification limits that relate to field performance. While current test methods are far from perfect, it is thought that there is sufficient experience to use them and that adoption of performance specifications will lead to development of better test methods.
Materials and Corrosion 6/2012
Authors: Kong D. , Wang Y. , Zhang W. , Wang W. , Liu X. , Wang J.
Published: October 2015

Cover: In the wire beam electrode (WBE) method, the plane electrode is replaced by short connected wire carbon steel electrodes. The current distribution of the WBE under the organic coating was measured. The classic EIS technique was employed to research the EIS characteristic of local anode and cathode. The mechanism of the organic coating degradation and corrosion of substrate carbon steel was investigated from the point of view of current distribution.

More detailed information can be found in: D. Kong, Y. Wang, W. Zhang, W. Wang, X. Liu, J. Wang, Correlation between electrochemical impedance and current distribution of carbon steel under organic coating, Materials and Corrosion 2012, 63, 475.
Materials and Corrosion 7/2012
Authors: Kap I. , Starostin M. , Shter G. E. , Grader G. S.
Published: October 2015

Cover: Corrosion resistance of 304, 316L, 310 SS and 680 nickel alloy was studied in concentrated ammonium nitrate‐urea (ANU) solution. This solution provides the basis for development of a new alternative mono‐fuel that can potentially reduce the harmful effects of fossil fuels combustion. The ANU solution is an aggressive medium, especially at high temperatures. Tests in ANU at 350 °C and 20 bar on SS 304, 316L and 680 nickel alloy showed that all are susceptible to uniform and pitting corrosion. An example of a pit in SS 304 is shown in the large cover picture. The pitting on SS 304 and 316 increased with addition of 5% sodium chloride to the ANU solution. Under these conditions corrosion attack was not found on 310 SS, as shown on the small insertion ‐ making it a good candidate for ANU reactors.

More detailed information can be found in: I. Kap, M. Starostin, G. E. Shter, G. S. Grader; Corrosion of aluminium, stainless steels and AISI 680 nickel alloy in nitrogen‐based fuels; Materials and Corrosion 2012, 63, 571.
In Search of Negativity Bias: An Empirical Study of Perceived Helpfulness of Online Reviews
Authors: Wu Philip Fei
Published: October 2015

A basic tenet of psychology is that the psychological effects of negative information outweigh those of positive information. Three empirical studies show that the negativity bias can be attenuated or even reversed in the context of electronic word of mouth (eWoM). The first study analyzes a large sample of customer reviews collected from Amazon.com and concludes that negative reviews are no more helpful than positive ones when controlling for review quality The second study follows up with a virtual experiment that confirms the lack of negativity bias in evaluating the helpfulness of online reviews. The third study demonstrates that the negativity effect can be reversed by manipulating the baseline valences. This work challenges the conventional wisdom of “bad is stronger than good” and contributes to the understanding of the eWoM phenomenon.
Satellite based remote sensing of weather and climate: recent achievements and future perspectives
Authors: Thies B. , Bendix Jörg
Published: October 2015

Spaceborne remote sensing provides valuable information about the state of the Earth‐atmosphere system and its components in an area‐wide and continuous manner. Over the past 50 years a range of satellite platforms carrying many different sensors has been constructed to monitor atmospheric parameters used in meteorological and climatological studies, and the information retrieved from satellite‐based sensors has greatly enhanced our understanding of the processes and dynamics within the Earth‐atmosphere system. The present paper gives an overview of existing satellites and sensors, together with the developed algorithms to retrieve meteorological and climatological parameters. Furthermore, it gives an outlook on new systems planned for the near future. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Subtalar fusion with iliac bone free flap after a recalcitrant nonunion: Report of two cases
Authors: Roger Ignacio , Worden Alicia , Panattoni Joao , Garcia Ignacio , Aranda Fernando , Delgado Paula A.
Published: October 2015

Fractures of the calcaneus are associated with secondary osteoarthritis of the subtalar joint. In a persistent nonunion, vascularized bone flaps offer superior biologic and mechanical properties as well as accelerates joint fusion and decreases morbidity. In this report, we present results of the use of vascularized iliac bone free flap for treating subtalar failed fusions in two patients. Two patients sustained calcaneal fractures due to foot trauma, which were initially or subsequently treated with subtalar arthrodesis. Case one developed septic subtalar nonunion during treatment and case two failed three attempts at subtalar arthrodeses. The iliac crest bone flap harvested measured 4 × 4 cm (case one) and 3 × 3 cm (case two). The flap was pedicled by the deep circumflex iliac artery, which was anastomosed to the anterior tibial artery at the recipient site. No flap donor or recipient site complications occurred. Fusion was confirmed on CT scan and weight bearing was initiated at 5–6 months. At latest follow up (1–2 years), no complications occurred. Our results show that subtalar nonunion treatment with a vascularized iliac bone flap may be feasible and such a reconstruction could be clinically successful. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:501–506, 2016.