bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations between recent gay-related stressful events, emotional distress, social support and unprotected anal intercourse behavior among Chinese men who have sex with men
Authors: Yunyong Liu , Zhe Wang , Junting Xu , Yan Zhou , Xiaoxia An , Li Zhao , Yuan Gu , Chao Jiang
Published: November 2015

Background:

This study was designed to assess the levels of and associations between gay-related stressful events, social support, emotional distress and the number of unprotected anal intercourse partners among Chinese men who have sex with men.

Methods:

Using a respondent-driven sampling method, 807 men who have sex with men were recruited in urban areas of northeast China and data were collected via face-to-face interviews. Gay-related stressful events were measured using the Gay-Related Stressful Life Events Scale; levels of depression, anxiety symptoms and social support were measured using the Self-Rating Depression Scale, the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and the Social Support Rating Scale, respectively.

Results:

Over a quarter of study participants experienced gay-related stressful events during the preceding 3 months. Their average Self-Rating Depression Scale, Self-Rating Anxiety Scale and Social Support scores differed significantly from the national norm. Gay-related stressful events significantly correlated with anxiety ( r = 0.167, p < 0.001), depression ( r = 0.165, p < 0.001), social support ( r = −0.107, p = 0.002) and number of unprotected anal intercourse partners ( r = 0.13, p < 0.001), showing a clear dose–response relationship.

Conclusion:

Gay-related stressful events are common and are significantly associated with emotional distress, lack of social support and high-risk sexual behaviors among Chinese men who have sex with men. Multifaceted approaches are warranted to increase social support and reduce intolerance toward homosexual behaviors and to reduce risky sexual behaviors related to the rapid HIV epidemic among men who have sex with men population in China.
Developing and Remote Controlling a Multi-Zone Cooling Plant using Web Services and a Secure Token Mechanism
Authors: Kirbas Ismail
Published: November 2015

This study involves developing a realistic multi-zone cooling plant model with three independent zones and controlling it via a USB-connected computer. Each cooling zone can have different temperature settings, and all parameters are configured by automation control software which is written in C# language. The cooling system has two cascade connected compressors, three solenoid valves and five fans. All these devices are driven by a specially developed microcontroller-based electronic control card. The developed system enables all control parameters and temperature values to be set and monitored by any Internet-connected remote device using web service technology and a secure token mechanism.
Inter Arma Silent Leges? Democracy, Domestic Terrorism, and Diversion
Authors: Foster Dennis M.
Published: November 2015

This article develops expectations about the use of military force by democracies facing domestic terrorism. Due to the necessity of balancing effective counterterrorism with liberal acceptability, domestic terrorism typically represents a significant but nonexistential threat to democracies that is ineradicable via repression; as such, it is likely to generate appreciable diversionary incentives. Moreover, the use of force abroad, coupled with counterterrorist strategies that seek to safeguard democratic legitimacy, allows leaders to provide benefits both to citizens who seek retribution against terrorists and to those who value the preservation of liberty. Tests of the correlates of dispute initiation across all democracies, 1970–2000, provide support for this hypothesis. Further analyses reveal that diversion from domestic terrorism is most likely by democratic governments with relatively greater diversionary capacity and with lesser repressive capacity and incentive.
Predicting the behavior of nonwoven geotextile materials made of polyester and polypropylene fibers
Authors: Stepanovic Jovan M , Trajkovic Dusan , Stojiljkovic Dragan , Djordjic Dragan
Published: November 2015

Predicting the behavior of geotextiles made of polyesters and polypropylene fibers is described by differential equations derived from mechanical models. Thereby, we describe the behavior of geotextiles up to the elastic limit. The elastic limit represents the permissible load which the geotextile material may be subjected to during exploitation, and without distorting its structure. The elastic limit is defined by analyzing the stress–strain curve of analyzed geotextiles. Nonwoven geotextile materials of polyester and polypropylene fibers with surface mass of 150, 200, 250, 300 and 500 g/m2 were used as experimental material.
Critical theory and reconstruction: On Hauke Brunkhorst’s Critical Theory of Legal Revolutions
Authors: Gaus Daniel
Published: November 2015

In his account of legal revolutions, Hauke Brunkhorst applies a dual perspective encompassing the approaches both of systems and discourse theory to social evolution: functional adaptation and group-based normative learning coexist as two mechanisms of societal change, the latter being conceptualized as occasional interruptions to an overall systemic process of societal evolution. This article argues that Brunkhorst’s ‘systems theory first’ perspective undermines his claim to be delivering critical theory and that while it is both possible and necessary to incorporate a systems-theoretical perspective into discourse-theoretical social theory when devising a critical theory of law and democracy, the reverse does not apply. The building blocks of Habermas’ reconstructive approach to social evolution are presented as a conceptual framework that constitutes an alternative to Brunkhorst’s ‘systems theory first’ perspective but remains compatible with the basic premises of his account. A discourse-theoretical view that sees societal development in terms of a social learning process chimes with Brunkhorst’s dual perspective on the dialectics of legal evolution but at the same time upholds the aims of critical theory.
Reply to critics
Authors: Brunkhorst Hauke
Published: November 2015

The author of Critical Theory of Legal Revolutions discusses three major fields of objection against his outline of an evolutionary theory of public and international law. In the first part he discusses problems of action theory. There are at issue, first, the role of negation and moral resentment for the constitution of a normatively relevant social praxis, then the emergence of social systems within and from the context of the life-world, and the relation of revolutionary and gradual learning processes. The second part discusses the relation of his theory to postcolonial and feminist studies. Finally, the debate centers in part III on the dialectic of Enlightenment. The problem of alienation and negativity is at stake, closely related to the negative aesthetic of law and the intertwinement of repression and emancipation within the legal form. In the end, it is an open question if we today still can rely on the negative aesthetic and hidden utopian form of law, or if we have already fallen back to constitutional kitsch and façade.
A neural network-based distributed parameter model identification approach for microcantilever
Authors: Qi Chenkun , Gao Feng , Li Han-Xiong , Zhao Xianchao , Deng Liming
Published: November 2015

The microcantilever used in micro–nanomanipulator is a spatially distributed and flexible mechanical system. An accurate model of the microcantilever is essential for the accurate tip positioning and force sensing. Traditional lumped parameter model will lose the spatial dynamics. Though the nominal Euler–Bernoulli model is a distributed parameter model, in practice there are still some unknown nonlinear dynamics. In this study, a neural network-based distributed parameter model identification approach is proposed for modelling the microcantilever. First, a nominal Euler–Bernoulli beam model is derived. To compensate unknown nonlinear dynamics, a nonlinear term that needs to be estimated is added in the nominal model. For finite-dimensional implementation, the infinite-dimensional partial differential equation model is reduced into a finite-dimensional ordinary differential equation model using the Galerkin method. Next, a neural network-based intelligent learning approach is developed to learn the unknown nonlinearities from the input–output data. A radial basis function recurrent neural network observer is designed to estimate the finite-dimensional states from a few sensors of measurements. After that, a general regression neural network model is identified to establish the nonlinear spatiotemporal dynamic model between the inputs and outputs. The effectiveness of the proposed neural network-based distributed parameter modelling approach is verified by the simulations on a typical microcantilever.
Consideration of damage in the analysis of autofrettage of thick-walled pressure vessels
Authors: Altenbach H , Lvov GI , Naumenko K , Okorokov V
Published: November 2015

In this study, the influence of material damage and the Bauschinger effect on the autofrettage of thick-walled pressure vessels is investigated. Constitutive equations for the elasto-plastic deformation and damage processes are presented. Boundary value problems for a thick-walled cylinder and for a thick-walled sphere of constant thickness are formulated. Computations are preformed to find the optimum autofrettage pressure, for which the equivalent stresses in the vessel take the minimum value under process conditions. Furthermore, residual stress fields after the autofrettage are analyzed. The results show that the Bauschinger effect and damage lead to essential reduction of favorable residual stresses.
A nonlinear rubber spring model containing fractional derivatives for use in railroad vehicle dynamic analysis
Authors: Shi Huailong , Wu Pingbo
Published: November 2015

A nonlinear dynamic model for a rubber spring is created and subsequently used to describe the mechanical behavior of rubber mounts in the suspension system of a railroad vehicle. The characteristics of dynamic stiffness and damping relative to the applied displacement amplitude and frequency are investigated both through simulations and measurements. The model is one dimensional and is based on a superposition of elastic force, frictional force and fractional derivative viscous force. The amplitude dependence is represented by a nonlinear frictional component and a fractional derivative calculus approach is used to account for its frequency dependence. The fractional calculus approach considers previous responses in the current calculation, which results in the memory characteristics of rubber being considered. A linear elastic spring component is still needed to describe its static behavior. The least-squares technique is used to obtain model parameters from measurements, and an overall good agreement between the simulations and measurements is obtained. The model only has five parameters and represents a reasonable compromise between accuracy and computational effort, and thus, it is a suitable tool for railroad vehicle dynamics analysis and simulation.
Bayesian analysis of multi-type recurrent events and dependent termination with nonparametric covariate functions
Authors: Lin Li-An , Luo Sheng , Chen Bingshu E , Davis Barry R
Published: November 2015

Multi-type recurrent event data occur frequently in longitudinal studies. Dependent termination may occur when the terminal time is correlated to recurrent event times. In this article, we simultaneously model the multi-type recurrent events and a dependent terminal event, both with nonparametric covariate functions modeled by B-splines. We develop a Bayesian multivariate frailty model to account for the correlation among the dependent termination and various types of recurrent events. Extensive simulation results suggest that misspecifying nonparametric covariate functions may introduce bias in parameter estimation. This method development has been motivated by and applied to the lipid-lowering trial component of the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial.
The Relationship Between Climate Change Policy and Socioeconomic Changes in the U.S. Great Plains
Authors: Hultquist Andy , Wood Robert S. , Romsdahl Rebecca J.
Published: November 2015

As the United States struggles with national solutions to climate change, state and local governments have increasingly taken policy action in this area. Although existing research addresses why some places adopt climate change policy while others do not, much of this expresses policies as a function of factors in the present period or recent past, leaving the question of whether current climate change policy can be seen as a lagged response to longer term trends largely unaddressed. Examination of climate change policy as a response to longer term changes expands the existing understanding of why locations choose to be active in this area. Pairing unique climate change policy survey data from more than 200 local Great Plains governments with Census and environmental data from 1990 to 2000, this article examines whether changes in local socioeconomic and environmental factors in the 1990s are associated with climate change mitigation and adaptation policy adoption from the following decade, 2000–2010.
What Do PE Investors Seek From Syndication Partners? Evidence From the Infrastructure Sector
Authors: Gemson Josephine , Rajan A. Thillai
Published: November 2015

This article presents an analysis of Private Equity (PE) syndication in infrastructure projects. Previous studies on syndication have been largely in developed countries, with few studies synthesizing the findings of research to support decisions at a sector level. The sample for this study was 358 worldwide deals with PE investments in energy, transport, and water and utilities sectors. First, we identify differences between infrastructure deals that have PE syndication with those that do not. Second, we analyze the drivers of PE syndication. Third, we understand the extent of PE syndication. Our findings indicated that PE syndication was driven by the need for local knowledge—which was critical due to the site-specific nature of infrastructure assets, translating into syndication with local partners. As round number increased, diversity of experience took precedence over level of experience, indicating that PE firms syndicated with other PE firms to achieve a varied set of skills.
Impact Evaluation Methods in Public Economics
Authors: Pomeranz Dina
Published: November 2015

Recent years have seen a large expansion in the use of rigorous impact evaluation techniques. Increasingly, public administrations are collaborating with academic economists and other quantitative social scientists to apply such rigorous methods to the study of public finance. These developments allow for more reliable measurements of the effects of different policy options on the behavioral responses of citizens, firm owners, or public officials. They can help decision makers in tax administrations, public procurement offices, and other public agencies design programs informed by well-founded evidence. This article provides an introductory overview of the most frequently used impact evaluation methods. It is aimed at facilitating communication and collaboration between practitioners and academics by introducing key vocabulary and concepts used in rigorous impact evaluation methods, starting with randomized controlled trials and comparing them with other methods ranging from simple pre–post analysis to difference-in-differences, matching estimations, and regression discontinuity designs.
Promoting Policy and Environmental Change in Faith-Based Organizations
Authors: Jacob Arriola Kimberly R. , Hermstad April , St. Clair Flemming Shauna , Honeycutt Sally , Carvalho Michelle L. , Cherry Sabrina T. , Davis Tamara , Frazier Sheritta , Liang Lily , Escoffery Cam , Kegler Michelle C.
Published: November 2015

High rates of heart disease, cancer, and stroke exist in rural South Georgia where the Emory Prevention Research Center’s Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network provided mini-grant funding to six churches to implement policy and environmental change to promote healthy eating and physical activity. This study sought to determine whether perceptions of the health promotion environment changed over time and whether perceived environmental change was associated with healthy behavior at church and in general. This study used a single-group pre–post design with 1-year follow-up. Parishioners ( N = 258) completed self-administered questionnaires assessing perceptions of the church health promotion environment relative to healthy eating and physical activity, eating behavior and intention to use physical activity facilities at church, and eating and physical activity behaviors generally. Results indicate that perceived improvements in church nutrition environments were most strongly associated with decreases in unhealthy food consumed and stronger intentions to use physical activity resources at church ( ps ≤ .05). Perceived changes in the physical activity environment were unrelated to church or general behavior. Findings suggest that church environments may play an important role in supporting healthy eating and physical activity at church; however, whether the influence of the church environment extends to other settings is unknown.
Simulation-Based Cryosurgery Training
Authors: Sehrawat Anjali , Keelan Robert , Shimada Kenji , Wilfong Dona M. , McCormick James T. , Rabin Yoed
Published: November 2015

A proof-of-concept for an advanced-level computerized training tool for cryosurgery is demonstrated, based on three-dimensional cryosurgery simulations and a variable insertion depth strategy for cryoprobes. The objective for system development is two-fold: to identify a cryoprobe layout in order to best match a planning isotherm with the target region shape and to verify that cryoprobe placement does not violate accepted geometric constraints. System validation has been performed by collecting training data from 17 surgical residents having no prior experience or advanced knowledge of cryosurgery. This advanced-level study includes an improved training session design in order to enhance knowledge dissemination and elevate participant motivation to excel. In terms of match between a planning isotherm and the target region shape, results of this demonstrate trainee performance improvement from 4.4% in a pretest to 44.4% in a posttest over a course of 50 minutes of training. In terms of combined performance, including the above-mentioned geometrical match and constraints on cryoprobe placement, this study demonstrates trainee performance improvement from 2.2% in the pretest to 31.1% in the posttest. Given the relatively short training session and the lack of prior knowledge, these improvements are significant and encouraging. These results are of particular significance, as they have been obtained from a surgical resident population which are exposed to the typical stress and constraints in advanced surgical education.
Feasibility of Subxiphoid Anatomic Pulmonary Lobectomy in a Canine Model
Authors: Hsieh Ming-Ju , Yen-Chu  , Wu Yi-Cheng , Yeh Chi-Ju , Liu Chieng-Ying , Liu Chia-Chuan , Ko Po-Jen , Liu Yun-Hen
Published: November 2015

Purpose. Transthoracic thoracoscopic approach is the gold standard in surgical treatment for thoracic disease. However, it is associated with significant chronic postoperative wound discomfort. Currently, limited data are available regarding the subxiphoid approach to the thoracic cavity. The present study is aimed to evaluate the performance of a subxiphoid anatomic pulmonary lobectomy (SAPL) in a canine model. Methods. The SAPL procedure was performed in 10 beagle dogs using a 3-cm incision over the xiphoid process. After thoracic exploration, SAPL was performed under flexible bronchoscopy guidance. The pulmonary vessel was divided with Ligasure and secured with a suture ligature. The bronchus was divided with endostapler. Surgical outcomes were evaluated by the success of SAPL and operative complications. Results. SAPL was successfully completed in 9 animals. One animal required conventional thoracotomy to resuture the pulmonary artery stump. Another animal encountered small middle lobe laceration after SAPL and died at 8 days postoperation due to respiratory distress. Conclusion. Subxiphoid anatomic pulmonary lobectomy is technically feasible. Refinement of endoscopic instruments combined with more research evidences may facilitate the development of subxiphoid platform in thoracic surgery.
Development of an ovine model of occlusive arterial injury for the evaluation of endovascular interventions
Authors: Reva Viktor A , Morrison Jonathan J , Denisov Alexey V , Seleznev Alexey B , Zhabin Anatoly V , Bozhedomova Elvira R , Samokhvalov Igor M
Published: November 2015

Endovascular intervention for occlusive arterial trauma is becoming more common in clinical practice. The aim of this study is to present an ovine model of extremity arterial injury for use in future endovascular translational research. Animals under general anesthesia had their left superficial femoral artery exposed, which was bluntly injured over a 2-cm section using a hemostat and injection of air. Occlusion was confirmed on angiography and the flow characteristics measured by ultrasonography. Of five animals enrolled, four occluding lesions were created successfully. Post injury, there was a significant reduction in the median (interquartile range) systolic velocity (cm/sec) on the left (injury) compared to the right (control) side (3.5 (0–16.5) vs. 29 (23.8–43.3); p < 0.001). The ovine superficial femoral artery can be used to consistently produce an occlusive lesion that is suitable for use in the future evaluation of endovascular trauma interventions.
Have Anglo-Saxon concepts really influenced the development of European qualifications policy?
Authors: Clarke Linda , Winch Christopher
Published: November 2015

This paper considers how far Anglo Saxon conceptions of vocational education and training have influenced European Union vocational education and training policy, especially given the disparate approaches to vocational education and training across Europe. Two dominant approaches can be identified: the dual system (exemplified by Germany); and output based models (exemplified by the National Vocational Qualification ‘English style’). Within the European Union itself, the design philosophy of the English output-based model proved in the first instance influential in attempts to develop tools to establish equivalence between vocational qualifications across Europe, attempts that resulted in the learning outcomes approach of the European Qualifications Framework, the credit-based model of European Vocational Education and Training Credit System and the task-based construction of occupation profiles exemplified by European Skills, Competences and Occupations tool. The governance model for the English system is, however, predicated on employer demand for ‘skills’ and this does not fit well with the social partnership model encompassing knowledge, skills and competences that is dominant in northern Europe. These contrasting approaches have led to continual modifications to the tools, as these sought to harmonise and reconcile national vocational education and training requirements with the original design. A tension is evident in particular between national and regional approaches to vocational education and training, on the one hand, and the policy tools adopted to align European vocational education and training better with the demands of the labour market, including at sectoral level, on the other. This paper explores these tensions and considers the prospects for the successful operation of these tools, paying particular attention to the European Qualification Framework, European Vocational Education and Training Credit System and European Skills, Competences and Occupations tool and the relationships between them and drawing on studies of the construction and furniture industries.
Plant-based vaccines for animals and humans: recent advances in technology and clinical trials
Authors: Takeyama Natsumi , Kiyono Hiroshi , Yuki Yoshikazu
Published: November 2015

It has been about 30 years since the first plant engineering technology was established. Although the concept of plant-based pharmaceuticals or vaccines motivates us to develop practicable commercial products using plant engineering, there are some difficulties in reaching the final goal: to manufacture an approved product. At present, the only plant-made vaccine approved by the United States Department of Agriculture is a Newcastle disease vaccine for poultry that is produced in suspension-cultured tobacco cells. The progress toward commercialization of plant-based vaccines takes much effort and time, but several candidate vaccines for use in humans and animals are in clinical trials. This review discusses plant engineering technologies and regulations relevant to the development of plant-based vaccines and provides an overview of human and animal vaccines currently under clinical trials.
Attention bias modification produces no changes to appearance-related bias, state or trait body dissatisfaction in nonclinical women
Authors: Loughnan Siobhan A , Mulgrew Kate E , Lane Ben R
Published: November 2015

The potential of attention bias modification to reduce appearance-related attentional biases and female body dissatisfaction has not been investigated. Immediate and short-term effects were therefore examined across attentional biases, state and trait body dissatisfaction in a randomised controlled trial consisting of 62 female participants aged 18–35 years. The results show no changes to attentional bias across either the experimental or control condition and no significant changes in body dissatisfaction immediately post-training or at 1–2 weeks follow-up. Single-session attention bias modification protocols may therefore not be sufficient in modifying appearance-based biases and associated disordered body schemas within a nonclinical sample.
Put a limit on it: The protective effects of scarcity heuristics when self-control is low
Authors: Cheung Tracy TL , Kroese Floor M , Fennis Bob M , De Ridder Denise TD
Published: November 2015

Low self-control is a state in which consumers are assumed to be vulnerable to making impulsive choices that hurt long-term goals. Rather than increasing self-control, the current research exploits the tendency for heuristic-based thinking in low self-control by employing scarcity heuristics to promote better consumption choices. Results indicate that consumers low in self-control especially benefited and selected more healthy choices when marketed as “scarce” (Study 1), and that a demand (vs supply) scarcity heuristic was most effective in promoting utilitarian products (Study 2) suggests low self-control involves both an enhanced reward orientation and increased tendency to conform to descriptive norms.
Is Fair Trade ‘Fair’? A Study of Handmade Paper Producers in Nepal
Authors: Kharel Arjun , Middendorf Gerad
Published: November 2015

Examines the perceptions, understanding, and practices of actors engaged in producing and marketing fair trade handmade paper products. The study also assesses the impact of fair trade affiliation on the socio-economic conditions of producers and workers. Primary data were gathered through interviews and participant observation at three paper companies in the Kathmandu area, two of which are fair trade affiliated and one non-affiliated. Secondary data were gathered through available statistics and other documentation. Findings indicate that organisations affiliate with fair trade networks primarily to increase sales, and indeed, affiliation seemed to have positive impacts on sales. Workers were found to lack an understanding of fair trade due to lack of opportunities to participate in decision making, high levels of illiteracy, and because management did not consider worker awareness of fair trade as significant. Worker awareness notwithstanding, company participation in fair trade was positively related to improved socio-economic conditions of workers.
Panchayati Raj Institutions and Women’s Land Ownership
Authors: Vasavada Shilpa , Rajgor Meena , Ganguly Varsha
Published: November 2015

Women’s right to property, especially agricultural land, is positively linked to a better quality of life as well as welfare of the family, gender equality and reducing their vulnerability to domestic violence and their house chore drudgeries. Nonetheless, ensuring women’s rights to land has remained a challenge, which mainly revolves around implementation and enforcement of various laws and policies across many countries; India is no exception. This article shares various initiatives of a state-level network and its impact on women’s land ownership in Gujarat state of India. A major learning is to capture and influence the ‘middle space’, that is, a space between social action at the grassroots and changes in policy is very important for ensuring women’s land ownership. The larger question is ‘whether these experiences and learning are trendsetting’ in a given local governance (Panchayati Raj) and land administration system, which has to be moved by a gamut of grassroots’ initiatives and grabbing opportunities provided by state government initiatives for women.
Med14 cooperates with brg1 in the differentiation of skeletogenic neural crest
Authors: Lou Xin , Burrows Jeffrey T. A. , Scott Ian C.
Published: November 2015

Background

An intricate gene regulatory network drives neural crest migration and differentiation. How epigenetic regulators contribute to this process is just starting to be understood.

Results

We found that mutation of med14 or brg1 in zebrafish embryos resulted in a cluster of neural crest cell-related defects. In med14 or brg1 mutants, neural crest cells that form the jaw skeleton were specified normally and migrated to target sites. However, defects in their subsequent terminal differentiation were evident. Transplantation experiments demonstrated that med14 and brg1 are required directly in neural crest cells. Analysis of med14; brg1 double mutant embryos suggested the existence of a strong genetic interaction between members of the Mediator and BAF complexes.

Conclusions

These results suggest a critical role for Mediator and BAF complex function in neural crest development, and may also clarify the nature of defects in some craniofacial abnormalities.
Omeprazole-associated rhabdomyolysis
Authors: Tanaka Kumiko , Nakada Taka-Aki , Abe Ryuzo , Itoga Sakae , Nomura Fumio , Oda Shigeto
Published: November 2015

No abstract
Infrared-visible image registration for augmented reality-based thermographic building diagnostics
Authors: Liu Fei , Seipel Stefan
Published: November 2015

Background

In virtue of their capability to measure temperature, thermal infrared cameras have been widely used in building diagnostics for detecting heat loss, air leakage, water damage etc. However, the lack of visual details in thermal infrared images makes the complement of visible images a necessity. Therefore, it is often useful to register images of these two modalities for further inspection of architectures. Augmented reality (AR) technology, which supplements the real world with virtual objects, offers an ideal tool for presenting the combined results of thermal infrared and visible images. This paper addresses the problem of registering thermal infrared and visible façade images, which is essential towards developing an AR-based building diagnostics application.

Methods

A novel quadrilateral feature is devised for this task, which models the shapes of commonly present façade elements, such as windows. The features result from grouping edge line segments with the help of image perspective information, namely, vanishing points. Our method adopts a forward selection algorithm to determine feature correspondences needed for estimating the transformation model. During the formation of the feature correspondence set, the correctness of selected feature correspondences at each step is verified by the quality of the resulting registration, which is based on the ratio of areas between the transformed features and the reference features.

Results and conclusions

Quantitative evaluation of our method shows that registration errors are lower than errors reported in similar studies and registration performance is usable for most tasks in thermographic inspection of building façades.
Adam Smith's “Two Distinct Benefits” From Trade: The Dead End of “Vent-for-Surplus” Interpretations
Authors: Schumacher Reinhard
Published: November 2015

Hla Myint interpreted Adam Smith's “two distinct benefits” from foreign trade as a vent-for-surplus gain and a productivity gain. This classification has been adopted widely, but the vent-for-surplus gain has caused some debates. In this article, I show that Myint's categorization is based on a misinterpretation. Smith's two distinct benefits consist of exports and imports. Additionally, Smith does not expound a vent-for-surplus theory. Besides Smith's true benefits from trade, I discuss reasons for their modern misinterpretation and David Ricardo's and John Stuart Mill's criticism of Smith's theory, which is often misunderstood as well.
Geraldus Odonis, Franciscan Minister General and Scholar: The Life and Thought of a Controversial Friar
Authors: Langholm Odd
Published: November 2015

This article examines the life and career of Gerald Odonis (ca. 1285–1348?), the “popes' friar,” considering his views on price and value, money, and usury, among others.
Screen-based identification and validation of four new ion channels as regulators of renal ciliogenesis
Authors: Slaats Gisela G. , Wheway Gabrielle , Foletto Veronica , Szymanska Katarzyna , van Balkom Bas W. M. , Logister Ive , Den Ouden Krista , Keijzer-Veen Mandy G. , Lilien Marc R. , Knoers Nine V. , Johnson Colin A. , Giles Rachel H.
Published: November 2015

To investigate the contribution of ion channels to ciliogenesis, we carried out a small interfering RNA (siRNA)-based reverse genetics screen of all ion channels in the mouse genome in murine inner medullary collecting duct kidney cells. This screen revealed four candidate ion channel genes: Kcnq1, Kcnj10, Kcnf1 and Clcn4. We show that these four ion channels localize to renal tubules, specifically to the base of primary cilia. We report that human KCNQ1 Long QT syndrome disease alleles regulate renal ciliogenesis; KCNQ1-p.R518X, -p.A178T and -p.K362R could not rescue ciliogenesis after Kcnq1-siRNA-mediated depletion in contrast to wild-type KCNQ1 and benign KCNQ1-p.R518Q, suggesting that the ion channel function of KCNQ1 regulates ciliogenesis. In contrast, we demonstrate that the ion channel function of KCNJ10 is independent of its effect on ciliogenesis. Our data suggest that these four ion channels regulate renal ciliogenesis through the periciliary diffusion barrier or the ciliary pocket, with potential implication as genetic contributors to ciliopathy pathophysiology. The new functional roles of a subset of ion channels provide new insights into the disease pathogenesis of channelopathies, which might suggest future therapeutic approaches.
Changing Rules, Changing Practices: The Direct and Indirect Effects of Tight Coupling in Figure Skating
Authors: Lom Stacy E.
Published: November 2015

In this article, I examine the effects of tight coupling on organizational activities through a case study of the judging changes in figure skating following the 2002 Olympic judging scandal, which have transformed skating. In keeping with research that has called for a more complete understanding of the relationship between organizational structures and daily activities, I argue that institutional theory has treated coupling too broadly and that we need a better understanding of what tight coupling looks like at the micro level. Drawing on a mixed-methods approach, I contribute to this agenda by highlighting the direct and indirect effects of a specific type of tight coupling: one that arises from rule changes and is based on quantification. In doing so, this article also underscores how members of organizations actively shape their fields through their everyday practices and contributes to our understanding of the microfoundations of institutions.
A Queuing Model of the Airport Departure Process
Authors: Simaiakis Ioannis , Balakrishnan Hamsa
Published: November 2015

This paper presents an analytical model of the aircraft departure process at an airport. The modeling procedure includes the estimation of unimpeded taxi-out time distributions and the development of a queuing model of the departure runway system based on the transient analysis of D/E/1 queuing systems. The parameters of the runway service process are estimated using operational data. Using the aircraft pushback schedule as input, the model predicts the expected runway schedule and takeoff times. It also estimates the expected taxi-out time, queuing delay, and its variance for each flight in addition to the congestion level of the airport, sizes of the departure runway queues, and the departure throughput. The proposed approach is illustrated using a case study based on Newark Liberty International Airport. The model is trained using data from 2011 and is subsequently used to predict taxi-out times in 2007 and 2010. The predictions are compared with actual data to demonstrate the predictive capabilities of the model.
Stochastic Projection-Factoring Method Based on Piecewise Stationary Renewal Processes for Mid- and Long-Term Traffic Flow Modeling and Forecasting
Authors: Sun Lu
Published: November 2015

Forecasting traffic over a long period of time is of considerable interest and usefulness, but accurate forecasting is very difficult. Traditional projection and factoring methods for mid- and long-term cumulative traffic forecasting are deterministic and only provide a point prediction without specifying a statistical measure of prediction reliability. This paper constructs a stochastic projection and factoring method by casting long-term traffic volume counts into an integrated and rigorous framework of a more refined structural time series component model with piecewise stationary renewal processes capturing time-of-day, day-of-week, monthly, and yearly variations. By doing so, the new method roots itself in a solid theoretical foundation and generates two advantages. First, it results in a more accurate point prediction of cumulative traffic by taking into account the time-of-day traffic count variation in the modeling of unobservable future long-term traffic flow at temporary count stations or at a site under investigation as a mixture of piecewise stationary renewal processes with different means and variances. Second, it allows an interval prediction to be estimated by incorporating uncertainty into the modeling and forecasting process.
Swimming against the tide: Women's experience of choosing a homebirth in Switzerland
Authors: Brailey Sue , Jarrett Patricia , Luyben Ans , Poat Angela
Published: November 2015

Background:

Choice in childbirth, which also involves choice of place to give birth, is a fundamental right of all women. Despite the availability of health-care options for maternity services, most women living in Switzerland continue to give birth in hospital. This paper explores factors influencing the decision of Swiss women to give birth at home.

Study design:

A descriptive qualitative study was used. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six pregnant women living in Switzerland who were planning a homebirth. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Findings:

Previous hospital experience, expectations of homebirth, women's attitudes to birth, and personal and societal influences were reasons women gave for choosing a homebirth. Homebirth offered women more autonomy, less medical intervention, and a more relaxing environment than traditional hospital settings.

Conclusion:

Women in Switzerland who choose homebirth are motivated by the same factors as women elsewhere. The findings from this study suggest a need for personalised maternity care which supports women in their childbirth choices.
Research roundup: November 2015
Authors: Oxenford Kerry
Published: November 2015

In this section, a range of brief synopses of recently published articles from around the world that may be of interest to midwives is presented. The aim of this roundup is to provide an overview, rather than a detailed summary, of the research papers selected. Should you wish to look at any of the papers in more detail, a full reference is provided.
Small AnimalReview
Authors: Tennant Bryn
Published: November 2015

Introduction:

Alvelolar bone expansion is a feature of periodontitis and osteomyelitis of the jaw. They present similarly to neoplasia, and distinguishing these conditions requires histology.
Canine cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CCLE)
Authors: Paterson Sue
Published: November 2015

Canine cutaneous lupus erythematosus is recognised in a variety of different forms. The most common chronic form of the disease is the classical facial dominant form, discoid lupus erythematosus. In addition, other chronic variants that have been described include mucocutaneous lupus erythematosus, generalised cutaneous lupus erythematosus and exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus. The only subacute form of the disease recognised to date is vesicular cutaneous lupus erythematosus. This article describes the clinical presentation and breed predilections of each of these diseases, together with the most common diagnostic signs and therapy.
Managing influenza in primary care
Authors: Duncan Deborah
Published: November 2015

Influenza is one of the key winter pressures on the NHS. Deborah Duncan discusses the epidemiology, presentation, prevention and treatment of influenza in general practice
Managing the menopause at work
Authors: Bagness Carmel , Holloway Debby
Published: November 2015

Menopause is a normal physiological life event. However, some women can struggle to manage the changes affecting them. Carmel Bagness and Debby Holloway provide tips on the recognition of symptoms and how nurses can best support women who need help, particularly in the workplace
Discoveries on the shore
Authors: Hadjiafxendi Kyriaki
Published: November 2015

The Science of the Seaside project takes children to the Devon coast to ramble in rockpools and explore seaside objects. It is all about the joys of experiential learning.
Short- and Long-term Biologic Variability of Galectin-3 and Other Cardiac Biomarkers in Patients with Stable Heart Failure and Healthy Adults
Authors: Schindler Emily I , Szymanski Jeffrey J , Hock Karl G , Geltman Edward M , Scott Mitchell G
Published: November 2015

BACKGROUND

Galectin-3 (Gal-3) has been suggested as a prognostic biomarker in heart failure (HF) patients that may better reflect disease progression than traditional markers, including B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) and cardiac troponins. To fully establish the utility of any biomarker in HF, its biologic variability must be characterized.

METHODS

To assess biologic variability, 59 patients were prospectively recruited, including 23 male and 16 female patients with stable HF and 10 male and 10 female healthy individuals. Gal-3, BNP, and high-sensitivity cardiac troponin I (hs-cTnI) were assayed at 5 time points within a 3-week period to assess short-term biologic variability. Long-term (3-month) biologic variability was assessed with samples collected at enrollment and after 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Among healthy individuals, mean short-term biologic variability, expressed as intraindividual CV (CVI), was 4.5% for Gal-3, 29.0% for BNP, and 14.5% for hs-cTnI; long-term biologic variability was 5.5% for Gal-3, 34.7% for BNP, and 14.7% for hs-cTnI. In stable HF patients, mean short-term biologic variability was 7.1% for Gal-3, 22.5% for BNP, and 8.5% for hs-cTnI, and mean long-term biologic variability was 7.7% for Gal-3, 27.6% for BNP, and 9.6% for hs-cTnI.

CONCLUSIONS

The finding that Gal-3 has minimal intraindividual biological variability adds to its potential as a useful biomarker in HF patients.
Avaliação do impacto de veículos pesados na qualidade de serviço de rodovias de pista dupla usando dados empíricos
Authors: Piva Fernando José , Setti José Reynaldo
Published: November 2015

Este trabalho visa avaliar o impacto de veículos pesados na qualidade de serviço de correntes de tráfego a partir de estimativas dos fatores de equivalência veicular em rodovias com três ou mais faixas de tráfego por sentido, obtidas a partir de dados empíricos coletados em rodovias paulistas, para intervalos de duração curta (5 ou 6 minutos). O fator de equivalência foi calculado para cada intervalo através do método de Huber, admitindo-se que a qualidade de serviço é a mesma para todas as faixas de tráfego naquele intervalo. O fluxo básico é o da faixa mais à esquerda, nos intervalos em que são detectados apenas automóveis, e o fluxo misto é o da faixa mais à direita, em que passam automóveis e caminhões. Os resultados obtidos sugerem que: (1) em 52% do tempo, a qualidade de serviço não é a mesma em todas as faixas da rodovia; (2) o impacto marginal dos caminhões decresce à medida em que a porcentagem de caminhões na corrente aumenta; e (3) as diferenças que existem no fator de equivalência em função do nível de serviço são menos evidentes em rampas mais ín-gremes, onde o efeito das limitações de desempenho dos caminhões é mais notado.
Applications of light speed expansion and gravitational self-energy density in black hole cosmology
Authors: UV Satya Seshavatharam , E Terry Tatum , S Lakshminarayana
Published: November 2015

From the beginning of Planck scale to the scale of the current Hubble radius: 1) Considering the relation, subjects of black holes and cosmology, both can be integrated into evolving black hole cosmology and cosmic horizon problem can be relinquished. 2) Considering â€˜continuous light speed expansionâ€™ of the cosmic black hole horizon, attributed results of cosmic inflation can be re-addressed completely. If â€˜natureâ€™ of the universe is to expand with light speed, then there is no need to think about the existence of currently believed â€˜Lambda termâ€™. In addition, â€˜light speed expanding cosmic spaceâ€™ can be called as â€˜flat spaceâ€™. 3) Considering the ratio of gravitational self-energy density and thermal energy density to be Â (where Â is the Planck scale temperature, and is cosmic temperature at any time). Quantum gravity can be implemented in low energy scale current cosmological observations. Considering the above concepts, currently believed dark matter energy density and visible matter energy density both can be accurately fitted with the ratio of current gravitational self-energy density and current thermal energy density. To proceed further, the authors would like to highlight the following three points: 1) Deep-space red shift non-linearity can be expected to be connected with cosmological gravitational and relativistic effects and cannot be considered as a major criterion of cosmic evolution. 2) Until one finds solid applications of super luminal speeds and super luminal expansions in other areas of physics like astrophysics and nuclear astrophysics, currently believed â€˜cosmic inflationâ€™ cannot be considered as a real physical model and alternative proposals of inflation can be given a chance in exploring the evolving history of the universe. 3) Implementing Planck scale in current paradigm of cosmological observations and standard cosmology is very challenging and is inevitable.