bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlations of CTLA‐4 exon‐1 49 A/G and promoter region 318C/T polymorphisms with the therapeutic efficacy of 131I radionuclide in graves’ disease in Chinese Han population
Authors: Han Xin‐Rui , Wen Xin , Wang Shan , Fan Shao‐Hua , Zhuang Juan , Wang Yong‐Jian , Zhang Zi‐Feng , Li Meng‐Qiu , Hu Bin , Shan Qun , Sun Chun‐Hui , Bao Ya‐Xing , Wu Dong‐Mei , Lu Jun , Zheng Yuan‐Lin
Published: August 2017

Graves' disease is an autoimmune process in which the thyroid gland is triggered by autoantibodies, resulting in hyperthyroidism. The purpose of the present study is to elucidate whether exon‐1 49 A/G and promoter region 318C/T polymorphisms in the CTLA‐4 gene. This study consisted of 653 eligible patients with Graves' disease. After receiving 131I radionuclide therapy, these patients were classified into the remission and non‐remission groups. A logistic regression‐based model was used to analyze independent factors affecting the patient response to 131I radionuclide therapy. The results showed that CTLA‐4 49 A/G was closely related to the efficacy of 131I treatment for Graves’ disease (AG + GG vs. AA: OR = 6.543, 95%CI = 2.611 ∼ 16.40, P < 0.001; G vs. A: OR = 3.482, 95%CI = 2.457 ∼ 4.934, P < 0.001). Moreover, the findings revealed that haplotype A‐C (P < 0.001, OR = 3.592, 95%CI: 2.451 ∼ 5.262) and G‐C (P < 0.001, OR = 0.282, 95%CI: 0.204 ∼ 0.391) were associated with the efficacy of 131I therapy in treating Graves’ disease. Logistic regression analysis indicated that thyroid weight (OR = 0.963, 95%CI = 0.944 ∼ 0.982, P < 0.001) and CTLA‐4 exon‐1 49 A/G polymorphism (OR = 0.334, 95%CI = 0.233 ∼ 0.478, P < 0.001) independently affect the efficacy of 131I therapy in Graves’ disease. These data indicated that CTLA‐4 exon‐1 49 A/G polymorphism may be associated with patient response to radionuclide 131I therapy in Graves’ disease.
Increased expression of PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 in dermal fibroblasts from alopecia areata mice
Authors: Li Yunyuan , Kilani Ruhi T. , Pakyari Mohammadreza , Leung Gigi , Nabai Layla , Ghahary Aziz
Published: August 2017

Alopecia areata (AA) is a common autoimmune disorder affecting millions of people worldwide, which manifests as a sudden, non‐scarring hair loss. The expression of a pro‐inflammatory cytokine, interferon‐gamma (INF‐γ), has been well established to be involved in the development of AA. As IFN‐γ and other cytokines are also known to up‐regulate programmed cell death ligand 1 and 2 (PD‐L1 and PD‐L2), which both negatively control immune responses, we asked whether or not a high number of infiltrated T cells, seen in AA lesions, can modulate the expression of PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 in skin cells. From a series of experiments, we showed that a significantly higher number of PD‐L1 or PD‐L2 positive cells affect the skin in AA mice, compared to the skin of non‐AA mice. The number of PD‐L1 positive cells was well correlated with the number of infiltrated T cells, especially CD8+ T cells. We also found that the expression of PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 was co‐localized with type 1 pro‐collagen, CD90 and vimentin, which are biomarkers for dermal fibroblasts. Further studies revealed that releasable factors from activated, but not inactivated, lymphocytes significantly increase the expressions of both PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 in cultured dermal fibroblasts. In conclusion, our findings suggest that the expression of PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 in dermal fibroblasts is up‐regulated by activated T cells in AA‐affected skin, and as such, these regulatory molecules may not exert a negative control of the immune activation seen in AA lesions.
Phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase inhibition potentiates glucocorticoid response in B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Evangelisti Cecilia , Cappellini Alessandra , Oliveira Mariana , Fragoso Rita , Barata João T. , Bertaina Alice , Locatelli Franco , Simioni Carolina , Neri Luca M. , Chiarini Francesca , Lonetti Annalisa , Buontempo Francesca , Orsini Ester , Pession Andrea , Manzoli Lucia , Martelli Alberto Maria , Evangelisti Camilla
Published: August 2017

Despite remarkable progress in polychemotherapy protocols, pediatric B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) remains fatal in around 20% of cases. Hence, novel targeted therapies are needed for patients with poor prognosis. Glucocorticoids (GCs) are drugs commonly administrated for B‐ALL treatment. Activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin signaling pathway is frequently observed in B‐ALL and contributes to GC‐resistance. Here, we analyzed for the first time to our knowledge, the therapeutic potential of pan and isoform‐selective PI3K p110 inhibitors, alone or combined with dexamethasone (DEX), in B‐ALL leukemia cell lines and patient samples. We found that a pan PI3K p110 inhibitor displayed the most powerful cytotoxic effects in B‐ALL cells, by inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Both a pan PI3K p110 inhibitor and a dual γ/δ PI3K p110 inhibitor sensitized B‐ALL cells to DEX by restoring nuclear translocation of the GC receptor and counteracted stroma‐induced DEX‐resistance. Finally, gene expression analysis documented that, on one hand the combination consisting of a pan PI3K p110 inhibitor and DEX strengthened the DEX‐induced up‐ or down‐regulation of several genes involved in apoptosis, while on the other, it rescued the effects of genes that might be involved in GC‐resistance. Overall, our findings strongly suggest that PI3K p110 inhibition could be a promising strategy for treating B‐ALL patients by improving GC therapeutic effects and/or overcoming GC‐resistance.
Integration of microbial and chemical processing for a sustainable metallurgy
Authors: Ilyas Sadia , Kim Min‐seuk , Lee Jae‐chun
Published: August 2017

Bioprocessing for the recovery of metal from divergent resources using the microbial strategy has emerged as a green technology in metallurgical operations. The limitations to maintain the ideal condition for bacterial growth with slow kinetics, however, have been considered as major obstacles to bioprocessing being implemented more widely. This can be overcome by integrating the microbes with a chemical processing route. The available reports on recent developments in hybrid bio‐chemical processing of both primary and secondary resources have presented promising results, exhibiting the potential for use in large‐scale metallurgy. In this context, reviewing the factors of the hybrid process would benefit from knowledge acquired in fundamental studies. The present review focuses on bio‐chemical process integration using eco‐friendly design tools for treating the difficult to extract resources and complex spent materials as well. Furthermore, the potential of hybrid technology has been evaluated by establishing an economic model as a case study which encompasses features of economic development, environmental consideration and societal matters to achieve process sustainability. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Searching for the variables that control human rule‐governed “insensitivity”
Authors: Fox Adam E. , Kyonka Elizabeth G. E.
Published: August 2017

Verbal rules or instructions often exert obvious and meaningful control over human behavior. Sometimes instructions benefit the individual by enabling faster acquisition of a skill or by obviating an aversive consequence. However, research has also suggested a clear disadvantage: “insensitivity” to changing underlying contingencies. The two experiments described here investigated the variables that control initial rule‐following behavior and rule‐following insensitivity. When the initial rule was inaccurate, behavior was consistent with the rule for approximately half of participants and all participants' behavior was mostly insensitive to changing contingencies. When the initial rule was accurate, behavior of all participants was consistent with it and behavior for nearly all participants was insensitive to changes in underlying contingencies. These findings have implications for how best to establish and maintain rule‐following behavior in applied settings when deviant behavior would be more reinforcing to the individual.
Inspired to perform: A multilevel investigation of antecedents and consequences of thriving at work
Authors: Walumbwa Fred O. , Muchiri Michael K. , Misati Everlyne , Wu Cindy , Meiliani Meiliani
Published: August 2017

Emerging research evidence across multiple industries suggests that thriving at work is critically important for creating sustainable organizational performance. However, we possess little understanding of how factors across different organizational levels stimulate thriving at work. To address this gap, the current study proposes a multilevel model that simultaneously examines contextual and individual factors that facilitate thriving at work and how thriving relates to positive health and overall unit performance. Analysis of data collected from 275 employees, at multiple time periods, and their immediate supervisors, representing 94 work units, revealed that servant leadership and core self‐evaluations are 2 important contextual and individual factors that significantly relate to thriving at work. The results further indicated that thriving positively relates to positive health at the individual level, with this relationship partially mediated by affective commitment. Our results also showed that collective thriving at work positively relates to collective affective commitment, which in turn, positively relates to overall unit performance. Taken together, these findings suggest that work context and individual characteristics play significant roles in facilitating thriving at work and that thriving is an important means by which managers and their organizations can improve employees' positive health and unit performance.
Linear programming: an alternative approach for developing formulations for emergency food products
Authors: Sheibani Ershad , Dabbagh Moghaddam Arasb , Sharifan Anousheh , Afshari Zahra
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

To minimize the mortality rates of individuals affected by disasters, providing high‐quality food relief during the initial stages of an emergency is crucial. The goal of this study was to develop a formulation for a high‐energy, nutrient‐dense prototype using linear programming (LP) model as a novel method for developing formulations for food products.

RESULTS

The model consisted of the objective function and the decision variables, which were the formulation costs and weights of the selected commodities, respectively. The LP constraints were the Institute of Medicine and the World Health Organization specifications of the content of nutrients in the product. Other constraints related to the product's sensory properties were also introduced to the model. Nonlinear constraints for energy ratios of nutrients were linearized to allow their use in the LP. Three focus group studies were conducted to evaluate the palatability and other aspects of the optimized formulation. New constraints were introduced to the LP model based on the focus group evaluations to improve the formulation.

CONCLUSION

LP is an appropriate tool for designing formulations of food products to meet a set of nutritional requirements. This method is an excellent alternative to the traditional ‘trial and error’ method in designing formulations. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry
Power reduction of micro‐electro‐mechanical system shutter display by temporal smoothing of image signal
Authors: Shiga Tomokazu , Fujii Masato
Published: August 2017

Power reduction technique for micro‐electro‐mechanical system (MEMS) shutter display employing a time‐division pulse‐width‐modulation gray scale expression method has been proposed. By temporally smoothing the column data signal, transition frequency between open and closed states of the MEMS shutter decreases, resulting in power reduction. In order to suppress color distortion due to the smoothing, the number of smoothing subfield is limited. In addition, the number of smoothing subfield is adjusted for each pixel after calculating color difference between the original and smoothed pixels. Simulated experiments show about 20% reduction of the transition number of MEMS shutter state when the color‐difference tolerance is 0.8 and the maximum number of smoothing subfield is 3.
A study on country images, destination beliefs, and travel intentions: A structural equation model approach
Authors: Lindblom Arto , Lindblom Taru , Lehtonen Miikka J. , Wechtler Heidi
Published: August 2017

This study explores how individuals' cognitive and affective country images influence destination beliefs, and how these beliefs are associated with individuals' travel intentions. With the product country image and tourism destination image literature, we develop four hypotheses that are tested using structural equation modeling. We use a sample of 605 Japanese respondents. Our results indicate that the cognitive country image is positively associated with the affective country image. The findings suggest that both the affective and cognitive country images are positively related to the destination beliefs, and the destination beliefs are positively associated with the travel intentions.
Clinical Conformity Between Heel Ultrasound and Densitometry in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tabor Elżbieta , Pluskiewicz Wojciech , Tabor Kamil
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To assess the conformity between heel ultrasound and densitometry, and the clinical application of densitometry T‐score “gold standard” in quantitative ultrasound as a method of osteoporosis diagnosis in postmenopausal women.

Methods

The study is a systematic review of studies published in the last 17 years in PubMed, NLM Gateway, Medline, Embase, and Cochrane Library. Calcaneal quantitative ultrasound sensitivity and specificity were analyzed with regard to densitometry measurements in postmenopausal women. In addition, we summarized the values of ultrasound T‐scores, for which their accuracy in osteoporosis diagnosis is the highest.

Results

The inclusion criteria met 15 research studies conducted on postmenopausal women. In 11 of them, the authors concluded that clinical conformity between heel ultrasound and densitometry is good. The recommended quantitative ultrasound T‐score for osteoporosis diagnosis ranged between −1 and −3.65.

Conclusions

Heel ultrasound should be considered to be as accurate as densitometry in diagnosing osteoporosis. Nevertheless, it needs to have separate T‐score ranges determined, because those used in densitometry are not adequate.
Evaluating dall's sheep habitat use via camera traps
Authors: Dertien Jeremy S. , Doherty Paul F. , Bagley Calvin F. , Haddix John A. , Brinkman Aleya R. , Neipert Elizabeth S.
Published: August 2017

Anthropogenic disturbances, such as military training, potentially affect mountain ungulate populations. Assessing the spatiotemporal occupancy or habitat use of a wildlife population can assist with planning of potentially disrupting activities. Currently, military training is expanding into potential Dall's sheep (Ovis dalli dalli) habitat within 2 training areas of Fort Wainwright, Alaska. The 2 study areas included Molybdenum Ridge, a 10‐km long geologically isolated granite ridgeline on the northern periphery of the Alaska Range and Black Rapids Training Area, a steeper and smaller area within the mountain range and bordered by the Delta River. The United States Army requires a better understanding of sheep habitat use in these 2 areas to identify how training could affect the population and to reduce overlap of training and high sheep occupancy. We used an array of 54 spatially balanced camera traps, taking triggered and hourly time lapse images, to determine Dall's sheep habitat use based on seasonal and site covariates. Camera traps operated for a continuous 15‐month sampling period and captured nearly 8,000 images of sheep. Our occupancy models indicated that abiotic covariates such as slope, snow depth, and distance to escape terrain were the most important factors determining habitat use. Seasonal differences in habitat use indicated higher use during winter and spring for Molybdenum Ridge, and higher habitat use during the summer for Black Rapids Training Area. Detection probabilities were constant temporally and were higher if the camera was positioned on a wildlife trail versus off trail. Our results suggest that the best opportunity to minimize training interactions with Dall's sheep is to conduct training in early‐July to early‐September, specifically in areas with <60% slope and >500 m from escape terrain. © 2017 The Wildlife Society.
A comparison of tracheal scaffold strategies for pediatric transplantation in a rabbit model
Authors: Maughan Elizabeth F. , Butler Colin R. , Crowley Claire , Teoh Gui Zhen , den Hondt Margot , Hamilton Nicholas J. , Hynds Robert E. , Lange Peggy , Ansari Tahera , Urbani Luca , Janes Samuel M. , de Coppi Paolo , Birchall Martin A. , Elliott Martin J.
Published: August 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

Despite surgical advances, childhood tracheal stenosis is associated with high morbidity and mortality. Various tracheal scaffold strategies have been developed as the basis for bioengineered substitutes, but there is no consensus on which may be superior in vivo. We hypothesized that there would be no difference in morbidity and mortality between three competing scaffold strategies in rabbits.

Study Design

Pilot preclinical study.

Methods

Tracheal scaffolds were prepared by three methods that have been applied clinically and reported: preserved cadaveric (“Herberhold”) allografts, detergent‐enzymatically decellularized allografts, and synthetic scaffolds (nanocomposite polymer [polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane poly(carbonate‐urea) urethane (POSS‐PCU)]). Scaffolds were implanted into cervical trachea of New Zealand White rabbits (n = 4 per group) without cell seeding. Control animals (n = 4) received autotransplanted tracheal segments using the same technique. Animals underwent bronchoscopic monitoring of the grafts for 30 days. Macroscopic evaluation of tissue integration, graft stenosis, and collapsibility and histological examinations were performed on explants at termination.

Results

All surgical controls survived to termination without airway compromise. Mild to moderate anastomotic stenosis from granulation tissue was detected, but there was evidence suggestive of vascular reconnection with minimal fibrous encapsulation. In contrast, three of the four animals in the Herberhold and POSS‐PCU groups, and all animals receiving decellularized allografts, required early termination due to respiratory distress. Herberhold grafts showed intense inflammatory reactions, anastomotic stenoses, and mucus plugging. Synthetic graft integration and vascularization were poor, whereas decellularized grafts demonstrated malacia and collapse but had features suggestive of vascular connection or revascularization.

Conclusions

There are mirror‐image benefits and drawbacks to nonrecellularized, decellularized, and synthetic grafts, such that none emerged as the preferred option. Results from prevascularized and/or cell‐seeded grafts (as applied clinically) may elucidate clearer advantages of one scaffold type over another.

Level of Evidence

NA. Laryngoscope, 127:E449–E457, 2017
Contralateral R1 and R2 components of the laryngeal adductor reflex in humans under general anesthesia
Authors: Sinclair Catherine F. , Téllez Maria J. , Tapia Oscar R. , Ulkatan Sedat
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To demonstrate that under total intravenous general anesthesia (TIVA), the contralateral R1 (cRI) and contralateral R2 (cR2) components of the laryngeal adductor reflex (LAR) can be reliably elicited; to determine effects of topical anesthesia and inhalational anesthesia on the LAR; and to discuss how this technique may be utilized to continuously monitor the vagus nerve reflex arc.

Study Design

Case series.

Methods

Vocal fold mucosa was electrically stimulated via endotracheal tube surface‐based electrodes to elicit a LAR. Responses were recorded using the endotracheal tube electrode contralateral to the simulating electrode for each side.

Results

Twenty‐one patients (31 nerves at risk), aged between 28 to 84 years, who underwent thyroid and cervical spine surgeries (4 males, 17 females) were included. cR1 responses were reliably elicited in all patients, and cR2 responses were obtained in 14 patients (66.6%). Mean cR1 latencies ± standard deviation were 22.5 ± 2.5 milliseconds (ms) (left) and 23.4 ± 3.3 ms (right). Mean cR1 amplitudes were 237.9 ± 153.9 microvolts (uV) (left) and 265.0 ± 226.5 uV (right). Mean R2 latencies were 59.8 ± 4.9 ms (left) and 61.8 ± 7.9 ms (right). Intraoperative reversible cR1 amplitude decreases correlated temporally with surgical maneuvers stretching or compressing the RLN or internal branch of the superior laryngeal nerve (iSLN). Inhalational anesthetic agents abolished cR2 and minimized cR1 at mean alveolar concentrations > 0.5. Topical lidocaine significantly reduced LAR amplitude.

Conclusion

LAR cR1 and cR2 responses are present in humans under TIVA and may afford some airway protection against aspiration under anesthesia. They are inhibited by inhalational anesthetics and topical lidocaine. Continuous intraoperative iSLN and RLN monitoring are possible using surface‐based endotracheal tube electrodes alone to stimulate and record cR1 responses.

Level of Evidence

4. Laryngoscope, 127:E443–E448, 2017
Cost‐effectiveness of pediatric bilateral cochlear implantation in Spain
Authors: Pérez‐Martín Jorge , Artaso Miguel A. , Díez Francisco J.
Published: August 2017

Objectives/Hypothesis

To determine the incremental cost‐effectiveness of bilateral versus unilateral cochlear implantation for 1‐year‐old children suffering from bilateral sensorineural severe to profound hearing loss from the perspective of the Spanish public health system.

Study Design

Cost‐utility analysis.

Methods

We conducted a general‐population survey to estimate the quality‐of‐life increase contributed by the second implant. We built a Markov influence diagram and evaluated it for a life‐long time horizon with a 3% discount rate in the base case.

Results

The incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of simultaneous bilateral implantation with respect to unilateral implantation for 1‐year‐old children with severe to profound deafness is €10,323 per quality‐adjusted life year (QALY). For sequential bilateral implantation, it rises to €11,733/QALY. Both options are cost‐effective for the Spanish health system, whose willingness to pay is estimated at around €30,000/QALY. The probabilistic sensitivity analysis shows that the probability of bilateral implantation being cost‐effective reaches 100% for that cost‐effectiveness threshold.

Conclusions

Bilateral implantation is clearly cost‐effective for the population considered. If possible, it should be done simultaneously (i.e., in one surgical operation), because it is as safe and effective as sequential implantation, and saves costs for the system and for users and their families. Sequential implantation is also cost‐effective for children who have received the first implant recently, but it is difficult to determine when it ceases to be so because of the lack of detailed data. These results are specific for Spain, but the model can easily be adapted to other countries.

Level of Evidence

2C.Laryngoscope, 127:2866–2872, 2017
Optimizing window settings for improved presentation of virtual monoenergetic images in dual‐energy computed tomography
Authors: Fu Wanyi , Marin Daniele , Ramirez‐Giraldo Juan Carlos , Choudhury Kingshuk Roy , Solomon Justin , Schabel Christoph , Patel Bhavik N. , Samei Ehsan
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Dual‐energy computed tomography virtual monoenergetic imaging (VMI) at 40 keV exhibits superior contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), although practicing radiologists do not consistently prefer it over VMI at 70 keV due to high perceivable noise. We hypothesize that the presentation of 40 keV VMI may be compromised using window settings (i.e., window‐and‐level values [W‐L values]) designed for conventional single‐energy CT. This study aimed to devise optimum window settings that reduce the apparent noise and utilize the high CNR of 40 keV VMI, in order to improve the conspicuity of hypervascular liver lesions.

Materials and Methods

Three W‐L value adjustment methods were investigated to alter the presentation of 40 keV VMI. To harness the high CNR of 40 keV VMI, the methods were designed to achieve (a) liver histogram distribution, (b) lesion‐to‐liver contrast, or (c) liver background noise comparable to those perceived in 70 keV VMI. This IRB‐approved study included 18 patient abdominal datasets reconstructed at 40 and 70 keV. For each patient, the W‐L values were determined using the three methods. For each of the images with default or adjusted W‐L values, the noise, contrast, and CNR were calculated in terms of both display space and native CT number (referred to as HU) space. An observer study was performed to compare the 40 keV images with the three adjusted W‐L values, and 40 and 70 keV images with default W‐L values in terms of noise, contrast, and diagnostic preference. A comparison was also made in terms of the applicability of using patient‐specific or patient‐averaged W‐L values.

Results

Using the default W‐L values, 40 keV VMI exhibited higher HU CNR than 70 keV VMI by 24.6 ± 14.9% (P < 0.001) but lower display CNR by 38.0 ± 16.4% (P < 0.001). Using adjusted W‐L values, 40 keV images showed increased display CNR as compared to 70 keV images, by 21.2 ± 13.1%, 17.4 ± 13.6%, and 24.2 ± 15.9% (P < 0.001) for histogram‐, noise‐, and contrast equalization methods, respectively. The 40 keV images with all three W‐L value adjustment methods showed improved perceived conspicuity (CNR) of liver presentation by 103–120% (P < 0.001), as compared to default W‐L values. The qualitative observer study revealed that 40 keV images with noise‐ and histogram‐equalized W‐L values were the most preferred, followed by 40 keV images with contrast‐equalized W‐L values and 70 keV images with default W‐L values. The 40 keV images with default W‐L values were the least preferred. Patient‐specific W‐L values offered similar results to those of patient‐averaged W‐L values.

Conclusion

The adjusted W‐L values can significantly improve the perception of VMI dataset image quality by improving the actual display CNR.
Assessment of different patient‐to‐phantom matching criteria applied in Monte Carlo–based computed tomography dosimetry
Authors: Stepusin Elliott J. , Long Daniel J. , Marshall Emily L. , Bolch Wesley E.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To quantify differences in computationally estimated computed tomography (CT) organ doses for patient‐specific voxel phantoms to estimated organ doses in matched computational phantoms using different matching criteria.

Materials and methods

Fifty‐two patient‐specific computational voxel phantoms were created through CT image segmentation. In addition, each patient‐specific phantom was matched to six computational phantoms of the same gender based, respectively, on age and gender (reference phantoms), height and weight, effective diameter (both central slice and exam range average), and water equivalent diameter (both central slice and exam range average). Each patient‐specific phantom and matched computational phantom were then used to simulate six different torso examinations using a previously validated Monte Carlo CT dosimetry methodology that accounts for tube current modulation. Organ doses for each patient‐specific phantom were then compared with the organ dose estimates of each of the matched phantoms.

Results

Relative to the corresponding patient‐specific phantoms, the root mean square of the difference in organ dose was 39.1%, 20.3%, 22.7%, 21.6%, 20.5%, and 17.6%, for reference, height and weight, effective diameter (central slice and scan average), and water equivalent diameter (central slice and scan average), respectively. The average magnitude of difference in organ dose was 24%, 14%, 16.9%, 16.2%, 14%, and 11.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

Overall, these data suggest that matching a patient to a computational phantom in a library is superior to matching to a reference phantom. Water equivalent diameter is the superior matching metric, but it is less feasible to implement in a clinical and retrospective setting. For these reasons, height‐and‐weight matching is an acceptable and reliable method for matching a patient to a member of a computational phantom library with regard to CT dosimetry.
Adaptive traffic sampling for P2P botnet detection
Authors: He Jie , Yang Yuexiang , Wang Xiaolei , Tan Zhiguo
Published: August 2017

Peer‐to‐peer (P2P) botnets have become one of the major threats to network security. Most existing botnet detection systems detect bots by examining network traffic. Unfortunately, the traffic volumes typical of current high‐speed Internet Service Provider and enterprise networks are challenging for these network‐based systems, which perform computationally complex analyses. In this paper, we propose an adaptive traffic sampling system that aims to effectively reduce the volume of traffic that P2P botnet detectors need to process while not degrading their detection accuracy. Our system first identifies a small number of potential P2P bots in high‐speed networks as soon as possible, and then samples as many botnet‐related packets as possible with a predefined target sampling rate. The sampled traffic then can be delivered to fine‐grained detectors for further in‐depth analysis. We evaluate our system using traffic datasets of real‐world and popular P2P botnets. The experiments demonstrate that our system can identify potential P2P bots quickly and accurately with few false positives and greatly increase the proportion of botnet‐related packets in the sampled packets while maintain the high detection accuracy of the fine‐grained detectors.
One pot synthesis of free standing highly conductive polymer nanocomposite films: Towards rapid BTX vapor sensor
Authors: Singhal Prachi , Mazumdar Payal , Rattan Sunita
Published: August 2017

In this work, we report the synthesis of robust, flexible, and free standing PMMA/NGP (nanographitic platlets) composite by one‐pot polymerization technique for sensing organic vapors. The synergy between the NGPs and PMMA matrix through strong interaction results in remarkable electrical and sensing properties of the composite system. The chemical structure and morphology of as‐prepared PMMA/NGP composites were investigated by using FTIR, XRD, and SEM techniques. The electrical conductivity of the prepared PMMA/NGP composites increases with increasing concentration of NGPs owing to the formation of conductive paths within the composite due to the quantum tunneling mechanism. The electrical conductivity of PMMA/NGP composites with different NGP concentration shows a percolation behavior with percolation threshold of ∼1.2 wt%. The temperature dependent conductivity studies of the PMMA/NGPs were studied to understand the charge transport mechanism in the composite films by using Mott's Variable range hopping model. The PMMA/NGP composite have been evaluated for detection of benzene, toluene, and xylene vapors and were found to exhibit fast response, rapid recovery, and excellent repeatability. The sensitivity along with the flexibility of PMMA/NGP composite films opens up a new opportunity to fabricate the sensor in any shape as per the requirement of modern electronics. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 58:1074–1081, 2018. © 2017 Society of Plastics Engineers
Seeing is Knowing: On the Predictive Accuracy of Self– and Informant Reports for Prosocial and Moral Behaviours
Authors: Thielmann Isabel , Zimmermann Johannes , Leising Daniel , Hilbig Benjamin E.
Published: August 2017

Under certain circumstances, well–known others (so–called informants) may possess unique insights into targets’ personality traits beyond the targets’ self–views. Specifically, as proposed by the self–other knowledge asymmetry model, an incremental predictive ability of informants is most likely for traits and corresponding behaviours that are clearly visible to others and highly evaluative in nature. In two studies, we provide an empirical test of this proposition and extend prior research to one of the most important domains of interpersonal interaction: prosocial and moral behaviours. Specifically, we investigate the unique predictive power of informant reports in trait Honesty–Humility for fairness in the dictator game and dishonesty in a cheating paradigm. Importantly, while both these classes of behaviour are highly evaluative in nature, only fairness is clearly visible to others. Correspondingly, in line with the self–other knowledge asymmetry model, our results reveal unique predictive accuracy of informant reports for fairness. For dishonesty, by contrast, there was no conclusive evidence for incremental predictive power of informant reports. This implies that informants may indeed provide valuable information beyond targets’ self–reports on trait aspects driving fair behaviour, but that targets themselves are their own best experts when it comes to judging trait aspects driving dishonest behaviour. Copyright © 2017 European Association of Personality Psychology
On Self–Love and Outgroup Hate: Opposite Effects of Narcissism on Prejudice via Social Dominance Orientation and Right–Wing Authoritarianism
Authors: Cichocka Aleksandra , Dhont Kristof , Makwana Arti P.
Published: August 2017

Previous research has obtained mixed findings as to whether feelings of self–worth are positively or negatively related to right–wing ideological beliefs and prejudice. We propose to clarify the link between self–worth and ideology by distinguishing between narcissistic and non–narcissistic self–evaluations as well as between different dimensions of ideological attitudes. Four studies, conducted in three different socio–political contexts: the UK (Study 1, N = 422), the US (Studies 2 and 3, Ns = 471 and 289, respectively), and Poland (Study 4, N = 775), investigated the associations between narcissistic and non–narcissistic self–evaluations, social dominance orientation (SDO), right–wing authoritarianism (RWA), and ethnic prejudice. Confirming our hypotheses, the results consistently showed that after controlling for self–esteem, narcissistic self–evaluation was positively associated with SDO (accounting for RWA), yet negatively associated with RWA (accounting for SDO). These associations were similar after controlling for psychopathy and Machiavellianism (Study 3) as well as collective narcissism and Big Five personality characteristics (Study 4). Studies 2–4 additionally demonstrated that narcissistic self–evaluation was indirectly positively associated with prejudice through higher SDO (free of RWA) but indirectly negatively associated with prejudice through lower RWA (free of SDO). Implications for understanding the role of self–evaluation in right–wing ideological attitudes and prejudice are discussed. Copyright © 2017 The Authors. European Journal of Personality published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of European Association of Personality Psychology
Design Matters! An Empirical Analysis of Online Deliberation on Different News Platforms
Authors: Esau Katharina , Friess Dennis , Eilders Christiane
Published: August 2017

Ever since the Internet has provided easy access to online discussion, advocates of deliberative democracy have hoped for an improved public sphere. This article investigates which particular platform features promote deliberative debate online. We assume that moderation, asynchronous discussion, a well‐defined topic, and the availability of information enhance the level of deliberative quality of user comments. A comparison between different types of news platforms that differ in terms of design (a news forum, news websites, and Facebook news pages) shows that deliberation (measured as rationality, reciprocity, respect, and constructiveness) differs significantly between platforms. We find that the news forum yields the most rational and respectful debate. While user comments on news websites are only slightly less deliberative, Facebook comments perform poorly in terms of deliberative quality. However, comments left on news websites and on Facebook show particularly high levels of reciprocity among users.
Examining the Link Between Social Media Uses and Gratifications, and Political Tolerance and Dogmatism
Authors: Rathnayake Chamil , Winter Jenifer S.
Published: August 2017

The ability of social media to enable new uses and gratifications, and to shape political behavior, has not been discussed adequately in the social media literature. Drawing on a previous study by the authors that converts a framework by Sundar and Limperos (2013) into a social media uses and gratifications scale, this article examines the association between social media uses and gratifications, and political dogmatism and tolerance. A sample of 313 American citizens was used to develop two discriminant models. The models showed that social media uses and gratifications can be used to classify users with high or low levels of political dogmatism and tolerance with more than 70 percent accuracy. The results also indicate that while some gratifications, such as filtering, are common to individuals with high dogmatism as well as users with high tolerance, there were differences in the perception of uses and gratifications between these two groups. This shows that social media are open platforms that do not gratify only positive, open‐minded users.
Electrochemical Reaction Mechanism for Bi1‐xBaxF3‐x (x=0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4) Electrodes in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Konishi Hiroaki , Minato Taketoshi , Abe Takeshi , Ogumi Zempachi
Published: August 2017

The electrochemical reaction mechanism for Bi1‐xBaxF3‐x (x=0, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.4) electrode materials, which have several crystal structures, was investigated. As the barium content x increased, the crystal structure changed from orthorhombic (x=0) to hexagonal (x=0.1 and 0.2) and cubic (x=0.4). For x=0.1 and 0.2, the discharge voltage and capacity decreased during cycling. In contrast, for x=0 and 0.4, the discharge voltage increased from the 1st to the 2nd cycle. The results obtained by X‐ray diffraction measurements showed that the crystal structures of Bi1‐xBaxF3‐x (x=0 and 0.4) changed from orthorhombic and cubic to hexagonal after one cycle. This indicates that the transformation of the structure to hexagonal contributes to the improvement of electrochemical properties. Furthermore, when Bi1‐xBaxF3‐x (x=0) in which the orthorhombic and hexagonal phases coexisted was partly discharged, the hexagonal phase contributed preferentially to the discharge reaction. These results indicate that, for Bi1‐xBaxF3‐x, regardless of the crystal structure in the pristine state, the crystal structure changes into the hexagonal phase after one discharge‐charge cycle, and this structural change improves the electrochemical performance of the electrode materials.
Three‐Component Cascade Reaction in a Tube: In Situ Synthesis of Pd Nanoparticles Supported on mpg‐C3N4, Dehydrogenation of Ammonia Borane and Hydrogenation of Nitroarenes
Authors: Nişancı Bilal , Turgut Muhammet , Sevim Melike , Metin Önder
Published: August 2017

We report herein a facile in situ synthesis of Pd nanoparticles (NPs) supported on mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (mpg‐C3N4/Pd) during the tandem dehydrogenation of ammonia borane (AB) and hydrogenation of nitroarenes at room temperature. In the presented protocol, a three‐component cascade reaction is realized in a pressure tube at room temperature, encompassing (i) in situ generation of Pd NPs supported on mpg‐C3N4 via reduction of mpg‐C3N4/Pd(II) nanocomposites by AB, (ii) the mpg‐C3N4/Pd catalyzed dehydrogenation of AB and (iii) the transfer hydrogenation of nitro groups through the mpg‐C3N4/Pd catalyst. The scope of the mpg‐C3N4/Pd catalyzed tandem dehydrogenation of AB and hydrogenation reactions were studied over a wide range of nitroarenes (10 examples), which are all selectively converted to the corresponding anilines within only 1–2 min with the yields up to 99 % under ambient conditions. It was also shown that the mpg‐C3N4/Pd catalysts could be scaled up to large scale production of anilines and reused up to ten times without any significant loss in the yields. Additionally, the mpg‐C3N4/Pd catalysts were isolated after the hydrogenation reactions and tested as catalysts in the hydrolysis of AB by studying the detailed reaction kinetics. The isolated mpg‐C3N4/Pd nanocatalysts showed a very high performance in hydrogen generation from the hydrolysis of AB by providing an initial turnover frequency (TOF) of 66.3 min−1.
The Influence of High‐Temperature Deformation and Heat Treatment on Microstructure of AF1410 Ultra‐High Strength Steel
Authors: Zhu Zhifei , Yuan Wuhuan , Zhang Peng , Zhang Rui
Published: August 2017

Hot compression tests of AF1410 ultra‐high strength steel are studied on a Gleeble‐3800 thermo‐mechanical simulator. The dynamic recrystallization behavior and microstructure evolution are analyzed with compression tests at deformation temperatures of 850–1150 °C and strain rates of 0.001–1 s−1. The results suggest that dynamic recrystallization grains of AF1410 steel grow with deformation temperature rising and strain rate decreasing. The coarse dynamic recrystallization grains are obtained at high temperature with low strain rate. The fine grains are obtained at low temperature with high strain rate, while recrystallization is incomplete in this situation. Fine equiaxed grains are obtained at deformation temperatures of 950–1050 °C and strain rates of 0.1–1 s−1, when dynamic recrystallization occurs completely. Then, the hot compression specimens are normalized at 900 °C for 1 h and tempered at 680 °C for 6 h. Compared with the compression specimens, it is found that there are relatively uniform fine grains after the heat treatment, and the grain size ranged from 14 to 23 µm. TEM analysis results show that coarse precipitates mainly include needle‐shaped M2C carbide and square‐shaped M23C6 carbide. There is no coherent relationship between the carbides and the martensite matrix.
Synchrotron radiation induced X‐ray production cross sections of 66Dy at energies across its Li (i = 1–3) subshell absorption edges
Authors: Kaur Rajnish , Kumar Anil , Czyzycki M. , Migliori A. , Karydas A.G. , Puri Sanjiv
Published: August 2017

The X‐ray production (XRP) cross sections for the 66Dy Lk (k = l, α, η, β2,6,7,15, β1,6, β1,3,4,6, β2,7,15, γ1,5, γ2,3) emission lines have been measured by tuning the incident synchrotron radiation at energies over the range 7.8–9.2 keV and ~10–370 eV above the respective Li (i = 1–3) absorption edges. These measurements aim to check the reliability of the independent particle approximation models used to generate the theoretical data sets of different physical parameters required to calculate the XRP cross sections and also investigate the influence of many body effects on the photoionization process. The measured values have been compared with 4 sets of XRP cross sections calculated using the Dirac–Fock model‐based X‐ray emission rates, 2 sets of the Li (i = 1–3) subshell photoionization cross sections deduced from the self‐consistent Dirac–Hartree–Fock model‐based values and the nonrelativistic Hartree–Fock–Slater model‐based values, and 2 sets of the fluorescence (ωi) and Coster–Kronig (fij) yields. The present measured Lγ2,3 (originating from decay of the L1 subshell vacancies) XRP cross sections are found to be significantly higher than different sets of theoretical values, whereas a good agreement is generally observed for the various other XRP cross sections and relative intensities.
Analgesics and Sport Performance: Beyond the Pain‐Modulating Effects
Authors: Holgado Darias , Hopker James , Sanabria Daniel , Zabala Mikel
Published: August 2017

Analgesics are used widely in sport to treat pain and inflammation associated with injury. However, there is growing evidence that some athletes might be taking these substances in an attempt to enhance performance. Although the pharmacologic action of analgesics and their use in treating pain with and without anti‐inflammatory effect is well established, their effect on sport performance is debated. The aim of this review was to evaluate the evidence of whether analgesics are capable of enhancing exercise performance and, if so, to what extent. Paracetamol has been suggested to improve endurance and repeated sprint exercise performance by reducing the activation of higher brain structures involved in pain and cognitive/affective processing. Nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs affect both central and peripheral body systems, but investigation on their ergogenic effect on muscle strength development has provided equivocal results. The therapeutic use of glucocorticoids is indubitable, but clear evidence exists for a performance‐enhancing effect after short‐term oral administration. Based on the evidence presented in this review article, the ergogenic benefit of analgesics may warrant further consideration by regulatory bodies. In contrast to the aforementioned analgesics, there is a paucity of research on the use of opioids such as tramadol on sporting performance.

Level of Evidence

III
New Discoveries and New Directions for the Archaeological Archives at the Autry Museum of the American West
Authors: Richardson Karimah Kennedy , Posas Anna Liza , Posadas Lylliam , Bardolph Paige
Published: August 2017

In 2003, the Autry Museum of the American West merged with the Southwest Museum of the American Indian, which housed the second largest collection of Native American objects in the country. Included within this collection is the Braun Research Library Collection, which consists of works of art on paper, rare books, scholarly publications, manuscripts, photographs, correspondences, maps and sound recordings, and other archival materials, many of which relate to the early development of the disciplines of archaeology and anthropology in the United States. For over a century, both national and international researchers have used the museum's collections and archival materials with a relative open access. However, due to the culturally sensitive nature of many of these collections and the growth of how information can be made accessible, the Autry institution is currently developing procedures that affect access, especially for those researchers who wish to study archaeological archives. Staff from multiple departments are collaborating on addressing these concerns, including developing new policies while improving access to Native American tribes, communities, and researchers in preparation for the new off-site Autry Resources Center and storage facility where the collection will be housed in the future.
Global distributions and strain diversity of avian infectious bronchitis virus: a review
Authors: Bande Faruku , Arshad Siti Suri , Omar Abdul Rahman , Hair-Bejo Mohd , Mahmuda Aliyu , Nair Venugopal
Published: August 2017

The poultry industry faces challenge amidst global food security crisis. Infectious bronchitis is one of the most important viral infections that cause huge economic loss to the poultry industry worldwide. The causative agent, infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) is an RNA virus with great ability for mutation and recombination; thus, capable of generating new virus strains that are difficult to control. There are many IBV strains found worldwide, including the Massachusetts, 4/91, D274, and QX-like strains that can be grouped under the classic or variant serotypes. Currently, information on the epidemiology, strain diversity, and global distribution of IBV has not been comprehensively reported. This review is an update of current knowledge on the distribution, genetic relationship, and diversity of the IBV strains found worldwide.