bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Qualitative Research on the Contribution of In-service Training to the Vocational Development of Teachers
Authors: Cömert Melike
Published: June 2018

The objective of the present study is to determine the teacher views on in-service training regarding its contribution to the vocational development of teachers. The sample of the study, which was designed as a case study from qualitative research methods, consisted of 35 field teachers from 7 middle schools in the Battalgazi district of Malatya province in Turkey. The data were collected by the researcher through a semi-structured interview form presented to the teachers. The data obtained in the present study were analyzed by content analysis method. In the present study, the contribution of in-service training on the vocational development of teachers, subjects that required training, and the individuals who were required to provide training, were determined as the three main themes.It was identified that in-service training did not contribute to the vocational development of teachers due to the theoretical nature, superficial expression, lack of solutions, and exclusion of teachers as participants. According to these findings, it is possible to organize trainings that focus on solutions, different methods and techniques, focus, that are solution oriented and involve participants more. In addition, it was revealed that in-service training did not contribute to the vocational development of teachers since it was considered as a formality and is compulsory through signing participation documents. In this respect, it was determined that the proposals, which are frequently mentioned in scientific research, regarding the provision of in-service training to teachers appear to be invalid and fall short in terms of its goals. With respect to the finding that including the specialists, ministry experts, academicians, volunteers, experienced teachers and supervisors, who provide instruction in in-service training, within the process would be more efficient, thus a more active role could be assigned to these individuals.
“To Use or Not to Use-That Is the Question!” Using Facebook as an Educational Tool in Recreational Leadership Course
Authors: Celebi Muberra
Published: June 2018

The purpose of this study was to examine the use of the Social networking site “Facebook” in “recreational leadership course” as an educational tool to facilitate the learning environment for sport management students. In this study qualitative research design and action research approach (emancipating/enhancing/critical science mode) were used. This research was based on the “by doing-experiencing” concept and focused on the usage of a Facebook group (as a closed group between students-lecturer/student-student) and on sharing course related topics inside and outside of the class under the supervision of the lecturer. The research was carried out with a total of 31 university students who participated in a “recreational leadership” elective course during the fall semester of 2015-2016. The data was collected both from the evaluation notes which were kept by the students at the end of the semester, and from observation notes of the researcher. According to the results based on the analysis of the evaluation notes of the students and the observation notes of the lecturer it appeared that “Facebook” as an educational tool in “recreational leadership course” was perceived mostly positive by students and the lecturer. In addition, according to the students’ evaluation notes, four themes were established: 1. Personal Development, 2. Emotional Development, 3. Performance Development and 4. Cognitive Development. On the other hand, the analysis of the notes of the lecturer revealed four main themes as gains:1. Improving the Quality of Class Management, 2. Systematic Application of Technology, 3. Improving the Quality of Education/Students, and 4. Learning by doing.
Active Manipulation of ECM Stiffness
Authors: Chen Peter C. Y. , Herath Sahan C. B. , Wang Dong-an , Su Kai , Liao Kin , Asada Harry
Published: June 2018

The mechanical properties of the microstructures surrounding cells influence the behavior of cells in differentiation, proliferation, and apoptosis, etc. The stiffness of the extra-cellular microenvironment has been shown to be one such mechanical property [1][2]. Studies reported in the literature concerning the stiffness of the extracellular microenvironment mainly sought to understand the scientific principles and mechanisms underlying its effect on cell-environment interaction [3]. This paper describes an approach that achieves such manipulation, and reports experimental results that demonstrate the effectiveness of this proposed approach.
Agarose Concentration and TGF-B3 Supplementation Influence Matrix Deposition in Engineered Cartilage Constructs
Authors: Kock Linda M. , van Donkelaar Corrinus C. , Ito Keita
Published: June 2018

High prevalence of osteoarthritis and poor intrinsic healing capacity of articular cartilage create a demand for cell-based strategies for cartilage repair. It is possible to tissue engineer cartilage with almost native proteoglycan content, but collagen reaches only 15% to 35% of the native content. Also its natural structural organization is not reproduced. These drawbacks contribute to its insufficient load-bearing properties.
Temporally weighting a time varying noise field to improve Green function retrieval
Authors: Weaver Richard L. , Yoritomo John Y.
Published: June 2018

The authors consider the retrieval of Green functions G from the correlations of non-stationary non-fully diffuse noise incident on an array of sensors. Multiple schemes are proposed for optimizing the time-varying weights with which correlations may be stacked. Using noise records created by direct numerical simulation of waves in a two-dimensional multiply scattering medium, cases are shown in which conventional stacking does a poor job and for which the proposed schemes substantially improve the recovered G, rendering it more causal and/or more symmetric, and more similar to the actual G. It is found that the schemes choose weights such that the effective incident intensity distribution is closer to isotropic.
See-through solar cells could power offices
Authors: Service Robert F.
Published: June 2018

Solar windows absorb ultraviolet and infrared light while letting visible light pass through
Connecting neuronal circuits for movement
Authors: Arber Silvia , Costa Rui M.
Published: June 2018

Dedicated neuronal circuits mediate execution, choice, and coordination of body action
Lived experience of Silver-Russell syndrome: implications for management during childhood and into adulthood
Authors: Ballard Lisa Marie , Jenkinson Elizabeth , Byrne Christopher D , Child Jenny C , Davies Justin Huw , Inskip Hazel , Lokulo-Sodipe Oluwakemi , Mackay Deborah J G , Wakeling Emma L , Temple I Karen , Fenwick Angela
Published: June 2018

Objective

There is limited information on the psychosocial impact of growing up with Silver-Russell syndrome (SRS), characterised by slow growth in utero leading to short stature in adulthood. Such information could aid families in making difficult treatment decisions and guide management strategies for health professionals. We aimed to explore the lived experience of people with SRS across the lifespan.

Design/setting/patients

In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted between January 2015 and October 2016 with a sample of 15 adults (six women) with genetically confirmed SRS from the UK. Qualitative interviews were transcribed and coded to identify similarities and differences: codes were then grouped to form overarching themes.

Results

Four themes were identified from participant accounts: (1) appearance-related concerns extending beyond height; (2) strategies to deal with real and perceived threats; (3) women’s experiences of pain, disability and feeling older than their years; and (4) feeling overlooked in romantic relationships. These themes show that other factors, beyond short stature, affect patient well-being and indicate a mismatch between patient need and healthcare provision.

Conclusions

Challenges in SRS during childhood and adolescence were central to the psychosocial impact of SRS, and were not limited to height. These challenges, as well as symptoms such as pain and fatigue for women, have not previously been documented. To help individuals with SRS develop strategies to manage psychosocial issues, we recommend clinicians incorporate psychological services as an integral part of multidisciplinary teams managing individuals with SRS during childhood, adolescence and adulthood.
Evaluation of lethal and nonlethal assessment methods of muscle fat content in European eel (Anguilla anguilla)
Authors: Pohlmann Jan-Dag , Freese Marko , Reiser Stefan , Hanel Reinhold
Published: June 2018

Individual fat reserves are considered a key factor for the reproductive fitness of the endangered European eel (Anguilla anguilla). In contrast with most established standards, microwave measurements enable the determination of fat contents without sacrificing individual fish, offering a broad range of ecological applications. To test the reliability of nonlethal assessment methods of the muscle fat content in eels, the performance of microwave measurements was compared with the prevailing standard of measuring fat in a distinct subsample of muscle tissue by solvent extraction. Results indicate that either method is prone to error due to physiological and morphological changes during the sexual maturation of eels. Since microwave measurements were systematically affected by life stage and body length, it was possible to calibrate the method accordingly, putting it at least on par with the prevailing standard and further facilitating its use for scientific purposes.
Time-Varying EEG Correlations Improve Automated Neonatal Seizure Detection
Authors: Tapani Karoliina T. , Vanhatalo Sampsa , Stevenson Nathan J.
Published: June 2018

The aim of this study was to develop methods for detecting the nonstationary periodic characteristics of neonatal electroencephalographic (EEG) seizures by adapting estimates of the correlation both in the time (spike correlation; SC) and time–frequency domain (time–frequency correlation; TFC). These measures were incorporated into a seizure detection algorithm (SDA) based on a support vector machine to detect periods of seizure and nonseizure. The performance of these nonstationary correlation measures was evaluated using EEG recordings from 79 term neonates annotated by three human experts. The proposed measures were highly discriminative for seizure detection (median [Formula: see text]: 0.933 IQR: 0.821–0.975, median [Formula: see text]: 0.883 IQR: 0.707–0.931). The resultant SDA applied to multi-channel recordings had a median AUC of 0.988 (IQR: 0.931–0.998) when compared to consensus annotations, outperformed two state-of-the-art SDAs [Formula: see text] and was noninferior to the human expert for 73/79 of neonates.
Wild ramification and restrictions to curves
Authors: Kato Hiroki
Published: June 2018

We prove that wild ramification of a constructible sheaf on a surface is determined by that of the restrictions to all curves. We deduce from this result that the Euler–Poincaré characteristic of a constructible sheaf on a variety of arbitrary dimension over an algebraically closed field is determined by wild ramification of the restrictions to all curves. We similarly deduce from it that so is the alternating sum of the Swan conductors of the cohomology groups, for a constructible sheaf on a variety over a local field.
Curvature bound for a curve flow with a prescribed rate of change in enclosed area
Authors: Fang Jianbo , Pan Shengliang , Yang Yunlong
Published: June 2018

This paper deals with the curvature bound for a nonlocal curve flow with a prescribed rate of change in enclosed area via Andrews–Bryan’s distance comparison. As a by-product, a partial answer to a conjecture given by Dallaston and McCue is obtained and the [Formula: see text] convergence of the curvature for the nonlocal flow is achieved.
An Exponential Jerk System: Circuit Realization, Fractional Order and Time Delayed Form with Dynamical Analysis and Its Engineering Application
Authors: Rajagopal Karthikeyan , Akgul Akif , Jafari Sajad , Karthikeyan Anitha , Çavuşoğlu Ünal , Kacar Sezgin
Published: June 2018

Simple dynamical systems are of interest always. In this paper, we propose a simple jerk system with one exponential nonlinearity. Dynamical properties of the proposed system are investigated. To show the practical realizability of the proposed system we implement the exponential jerk system using off the shelf components. Fractional order and time delays are considered as complex analysis patterns of nonlinear systems. We investigate the fractional order time delayed exponential jerk system. For numerical analysis we use the modified Adomian Decomposition Method. To show the engineering importance of the proposed system, we derive a pseudo random number generator based on it.Various test results are presented to show the randomness of the system.
A Bandwidth Mismatch Optimization Technique in Time-Interleaved Analog-to-Digital Converters
Authors: Luo Jian , Li Jing , Wu Shuangyi , Ning Ning , Liu Yang
Published: June 2018

In time-interleaved (TI) analog-to-digital converters (ADCs), bandwidth mismatches, caused by the limited bandwidth of input signal traces and sample circuits, seriously deteriorate the spurious-free dynamic range (SFDR) of the system. This paper analyzes the influence of bandwidth mismatch errors under different sampling sequences. Eventually, based on a randomization technique and the simulated annealing algorithm (SAA), a bandwidth mismatch optimization technique is presented that can work well with other bandwidth mismatch calibration methods. The behavior simulation results indicate that an improvement of 7[Formula: see text]dB in the SFDR can be achieved with this technique in a 16-channel TI-ADC after timing and gain calibration.
Second Order Universal Filter Using Four Terminal Floating Nullor (FTFN)
Authors: Ranjan Ashish , Perumalla Subrahmanyam , Kumar Ravi , John Vista , Yumnam Shantikumar
Published: June 2018

In this research paper, a voltage mode second order universal filter using Four Terminal Floating Nullor (FTFN) is presented. The proposed design uses Three Input Single Output (TISO) for the realization of all filter responses namely Low Pass Filter (LPF), High Pass Filter (HPF), Band Pass Filter (BPF), Notch Filter (NF) and All Pass Filter (APF) by using proper input selection. The analog building block, FTFN is simply realized with two commercially available AD844 ICs. The proposed second order universal filter comes with a single FTFN block with four passive components in which no component matching is required for filter realization. The universal filter is well verified using PSPICE simulation. In addition, experimental verification for the second order APF has been performed that confirms the theoretical expectations.
Effects of equation of state on hydrodynamic expansion, spectra, flow harmonics and two-pion interferometry
Authors: Dudek Danuce M. , Qian Wei-Liang , Wu Chen , Socolowski Otávio , Padula Sandra S. , Krein Gastão , Hama Yogiro , Kodama Takeshi
Published: June 2018

We perform an extensive study of the role played by the equation of state (EoS) in the hydrodynamic evolution of the matter produced in relativistic heavy ion collisions. By using the same initial conditions and freeze-out scenario, the effects of different equations of state are compared by calculating their respective hydrodynamical evolution, particle spectra, harmonic flow coefficients [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] and two-pion interferometry radius parameters. The equations of state investigated contain distinct features, such as the nature of the phase transition, as well as strangeness and baryon density contents, which are expected to lead to different hydrodynamic responses. The results of our calculations are compared to the data recorded at two RHIC energies, 130[Formula: see text]GeV and 200[Formula: see text]GeV. The three equations of state used in the calculations are found to describe the data reasonably well. Differences can be observed among the studied observables, but they are quite small. In particular, the collective flow parameters are found not to be sensitive to the choice of the EOS, whose implications are discussed.
Unified S-matrix analysis of Airy structures in α+24Mg elastic and inelastic scattering
Authors: Berezhnoy Yu. A. , Molev A. S. , Onyshchenko G. M. , Pilipenko V. V.
Published: June 2018

Using the six-parameter [Formula: see text]-matrix model, we have obtained a simultaneous correct description of the [Formula: see text]Mg elastic and inelastic scattering differential cross-sections over the energy region [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] MeV, where typical nuclear rainbow and prerainbow patterns are observed. The Airy minima of the first-order have been unambiguously identified in the cross-sections for elastic scattering and inelastic scattering to the first 2[Formula: see text] state of [Formula: see text]Mg at [Formula: see text]–145[Formula: see text]MeV. Their angular positions obey an inverse dependence on energy, which is in line with the “rainbow” interpretation of the data. Within this interpretation, the scattering matrix and the deflection function for the system [Formula: see text]Mg at [Formula: see text]–240[Formula: see text]MeV show physically justified smooth variations with the projectile energy.
Improving Phase I Monitoring of Dirichlet Regression Profiles
Authors: Foroutan Hourieh , Amiri Amirhossein , Kamranrad Reza
Published: June 2018

In most statistical process control (SPC) applications, quality of a process or product is monitored by univariate or multivariate control charts. However, sometimes a functional relationship between a response variable and one or more explanatory variables is established and monitored over time. This relationship is called “profile” in SPC literature. In this paper, we specifically consider processes with compositional data responses, including multivariate positive observations summing to one. The relationship between compositional data responses and explanatory variables is modeled by a Dirichlet regression profile. We develop a monitoring procedure based on likelihood ratio test (lrt) for Phase I monitoring of Dirichlet regression profiles. Then, we compare the performance of the proposed method with the best method in the literature in terms of probability of signal. The results of simulation studies show that the proposed control chart has better performance in Phase I monitoring than the competing control chart. Moreover, the proposed method is able to estimate the real time of a change as well. The performance of this feature is also investigated through simulation runs which show the satisfactory performance. Finally, the application of the proposed method is illustrated based on a real case in comparison with the existing method.
Weak solutions for stochastic differential equations with additive fractional noise
Authors: Li Zhi , Xu Liping , Yan Litan
Published: June 2018

In this paper, by using a transformation formula for fractional Brownian motion (fBm), we prove the existence of weak solutions to stochastic differential equations driven by an additive fBm with Hurst parameter [Formula: see text] under the linear growth condition. Furthermore, we also consider the uniqueness in law and the pathwise uniqueness of the weak solution.
Measuring Performance of a Three-Stage Network Structure Using Data Envelopment Analysis and Nash Bargaining Game: A Supply Chain Application
Authors: Amirkhan Mohammad , Didehkhani Hosein , Khalili-Damghani Kaveh , Hafezalkotob Ashkan
Published: June 2018

The issue of efficiency analysis of network and multi-stage systems, as one of the most interesting fields in data envelopment analysis (DEA), has attracted much attention in recent years. A pure serial three-stage (PSTS) process is a specific kind of network in which all the outputs of the first stage are used as the only inputs in the second stage and in addition, all the outputs of the second stage are applied as the only inputs in the third stage. In this paper, a new three-stage DEA model is developed using the concept of three-player Nash bargaining game for PSTS processes. In this model, all of the stages cooperate together to improve the overall efficiency of main decision-making unit (DMU). In contrast to the centralized DEA models, the proposed model of this study provides a unique and fair decomposition of the overall efficiency among all three stages and eliminates probable confusion of centralized models for decomposing the overall efficiency score. Some theoretical aspects of proposed model, including convexity and compactness of feasible region, are discussed. Since the proposed bargaining model is a nonlinear mathematical programming, a heuristic linearization approach is also provided. A numerical example and a real-life case study in supply chain are provided to check the efficacy and applicability of the proposed model. The results of proposed model on both numerical example and real case study are compared with those of existing centralized DEA models in the literature. The comparison reveals the efficacy and suitability of proposed model while the pitfalls of centralized DEA model are also resolved. A comprehensive sensitivity analysis is also conducted on the breakdown point associated with each stage.
A Judgment-Based Risk Assessment Framework for Consumer Loans
Authors: Ferreira Fernando A. F. , Meidutė-Kavaliauskienė Ieva , Zavadskas Edmundas K. , Jalali Marjan S. , Catarino Sandra M. J.
Published: June 2018

Credit to personal consumption is an important activity of the financial system and crucial to the socioeconomic development of a country. It is important, therefore, that the methods and techniques used to evaluate consumer credit risk be as efficient and informative as possible, in order to strengthen decisions to approve or reject credit and promote sustainable economic growth. This study aims to create a multiple criteria expert system which integrates cognitive maps and the measuring attractiveness by a categorical-based evaluation technique (MACBETH) to create a complementary framework for consumer credit risk assessment. The results show that this integrated approach allows the evaluation process of consumer credit risk to be more informed and transparent, providing value for the evaluation processes of this type of credit application as a result of the privileged contact established with a panel of credit analysts. Advantages, limitations, and managerial implications are also discussed.
A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Framework for the Evaluation of Train Control Information Systems, the Case of ERTMS
Authors: Krmac Evelin , Djordjević Boban
Published: June 2018

The huge potential offered by the implementation of a modern Train Control Information System (TCIS) could result in significant improvements in the railway sector in general. As a technology transfer, primarily in the European railway sector, the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) is expected to play an important role in providing better railway performances. However, the implementation of ERTMS entails certain dilemmas and disadvantages and the decision-making regarding it can be one of the crucial challenges for each railway. Having this in mind, the aim of this work is to propose a decision-making framework to support such a critical decision process through application of Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT) and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) analyses. In the proposed approach, external and internal factors that simultaneously enhance and constrain ERTMS implementation were identified and presented through the SWOT analysis, while the AHP method was applied for the evaluation of the importance of identified factors. The thorough literature review represents a basis for creating a SWOT matrix and setting of judgments for the evaluation of the SWOT factors. The results of the AHP method highlight the importance of the factors within the SWOT matrix regarding ERTMS implementation. Results of the AHP method were checked by two additional weight assessments in order to provide the appropriate approach for factor evaluation. The proposed approach also shows a relatively simple and very suitable decision-making framework for consideration of other TCISs, too.
Static and Free Vibration Analyses of Functionally Graded Carbon Nanotube Reinforced Composite Plates using CS-DSG3
Authors: Truong-Thi T. , Vo-Duy T. , Ho-Huu V. , Nguyen-Thoi T.
Published: June 2018

This study presents an extension of the cell-based smoothed discrete shear gap method (CS-DSG3) using three-node triangular elements for the static and free vibration analyses of carbon nanotube reinforced composite (CNTRC) plates. The single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) are assumed to be uniformly distributed (UD) and functionally graded (FG) distributed along the thickness direction. The material properties of carbon nanotube-reinforced composite plates are estimated according to the rule of mixture. The governing equations are developed based on the first-order shear deformation plate theory (FSDT). In the CS-DSG3, each triangular element will be divided into three sub-triangles, and in each sub-triangle, the stabilized discrete shear gap method is used to compute the strains and to avoid the transverse shear locking. Then the strain smoothing technique on the whole triangular element is used to smooth the strains on these three sub-triangles. Effects of several parameters, such as the different distribution of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), nanotube volume fraction, boundary condition and width-to-thickness ratio of plates are investigated. In addition, the effect of various orientation angles of CNTs is also examined in detail. The accuracy and reliability of the proposed method are verified by comparing its numerical solutions with those of other available results in the literature.
Quick and Highly Efficient Modal Analysis Method Based on the Reanalysis Technique for Large Complex Structure and Topology Optimization
Authors: He Jianjun , Xu Bin
Published: June 2018

Modal analysis is widely used to investigate the dynamic characteristics of large and complex structures. For finite element models, iterative solvers are needed to precisely calculate eigenpairs or frequency and vibration mode. However, in cases such as large-scale analysis or reanalysis studies, or optimization design of a huge structure, computational cost may become too time consuming. This paper focuses on the quick structural modal analysis based on the reanalysis technique for large complex structures. Based on the stiffness and mass matrix of the analytical structures, a high precision and efficiency eigensolution is generated by the proposed modal analysis method (the Pseudo Random Independent and Coupling Inverse Iteration (PRICII) method), which combines the pseudo random number initialization, ICII (Independent and Coupling Inverse Iteration) strategy with the double Rayleigh–Ritz analysis. By comparing with the Subspace iteration method, Lanczos method, etc. the large-scale numerical examples show that the actual computational savings of the proposed method are usually higher than 75% with sufficient precision. Also, its applications in topology optimization are greatly effective.
Cardiac Stem Cells in the Postnatal Heart: Lessons from Development
Authors: Aguilar-Sanchez Cristina , Michael Melina , Pennings Sari
Published: June 2018

Heart development in mammals is followed by a postnatal decline in cell proliferation and cell renewal from stem cell populations. A better understanding of the developmental changes in cardiac microenvironments occurring during heart maturation will be informative regarding the loss of adult regenerative potential. We reevaluate the adult heart’s mitotic potential and the reported adult cardiac stem cell populations, as these are two topics of ongoing debate. The heart’s early capacity for cell proliferation driven by progenitors and reciprocal signalling is demonstrated throughout development. The mature heart architecture and environment may be more restrictive on niches that can host progenitor cells. The engraftment issues observed in cardiac stem cell therapy trials using exogenous stem cells may indicate a lack of supporting stem cell niches, while tissue injury adds to a hostile microenvironment for transplanted cells. Engraftment may be improved by preconditioning the cultured stem cells and modulating the microenvironment to host these cells. These prospective areas of further research would benefit from a better understanding of cardiac progenitor interactions with their microenvironment throughout development and may lead to enhanced cardiac niche support for stem cell therapy engraftment.
Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulators for the Medical Treatment of Uterine Fibroids with a Focus on Ulipristal Acetate
Authors: Rabe Thomas , Saenger Nicole , Ebert Andreas D. , Roemer Thomas , Tinneberg Hans-Rudolf , De Wilde Rudy Leon , Wallwiener Markus
Published: June 2018

Uterine fibroids are the most frequent benign tumours in women of child-bearing age. Their symptoms are diverse and the quality of life of the women affected can be significantly impaired. While treatment to date has been primarily by means of surgical intervention, selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) open up new medication-based treatment options. EMA’s Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) has recently completed its review of ESMYA® (ulipristal acetate, 5 mg), following reports of serious liver injury, including liver failure leading to transplantation in postmarketing settings. We will provide some information on the PRAC’s recommendations to minimize this risk. Nevertheless, the effectiveness and safety of the SPRM ulipristal acetate (UPA), both with regard to preoperative administration and with regard to an intermittent administration as long-term treatment for patients with symptomatic uterine fibroids, have been shown in several clinical studies (PEARL I–IV).
Vancomycin-Induced DRESS Syndrome: An Important Concern in Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Littlehales Emma , Murray Odhrán , Dunsmuir Robert
Published: June 2018

DRESS (drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms) is a potentially serious complication when prolonged courses of antibiotics are given to patients, with an average onset of 2–6 weeks after commencement. There is a high mortality rate (1–10%). We report the case of a 62-year-old male who developed DRESS after seven weeks of antibiotic treatment with vancomycin for a deep spinal metalwork infection. We describe the typical rash and biochemical results, including eosinophilia, as well as the systemic signs seen in this case. The criteria for diagnosis of DRESS, including the RegiSCAR scoring system and commonly affected systems (renal, cardiac, and hepatic), are detailed, and we also discuss evidence for steroid treatment and considerations important in the use of this.
Simplex Cubature Kalman‐Consensus Filter for Distributed Space Target Tracking
Authors: Li Zhaoming , Yang Wenge , Ding Dan , Liao Yurong
Published: June 2018

A simplex cubature Kalman‐consensus filter, which is suitable for distributed space target tracking using multiple radars, is proposed to improve the target tracking accuracy. The detailed orbital dynamics model and radar measurement model are given as the system filtering models. The intractable nonlinear Gaussian weighted integral in the filter is decomposed into the spherical integral and radial integral, which are calculated using the spherical simplex rule and the second‐order Gauss‐Laguerre quadrature rule, respectively. In this way, a new simplex cubature rule is derived. By means of the statistical linear regression method, the posterior mean, covariance, and the transmitted messages in the extended Kalman‐consensus filter are approximated using the deduced simplex cubature rule, which results in the proposed simplex cubature Kalman‐consensus filter. No data fusion center exists in the filter, and each radar only needs to exchange the information with its neighbors to reach a consensus estimate. The simulation results show that the proposed filter can achieve more accurate results compared with the cubature Kalman‐consensus filter.
Critical Success Factors for Safety Management of High‐Rise Building Construction Projects in China
Authors: Li Yadi , Ning Yan , Chen Wei Tong
Published: June 2018

This study aims at identifying the critical success factors (CSFs) for safety management of high‐rise building construction projects and exploring interactions among such CSFs. Study data were sourced from semistructured interviews and a questionnaire survey administered in China. The study constructs a third‐order CSFs system containing six CSFs: management measures, management organization, technical and management plan, worker safety behavior, safety environment, and worker safety quality. Among these, management organization is found to be the key factor affecting construction safety management performance, while worker safety behavior is a factor with a direct impact. Implications for practice are proposed. This study enriches the existing literature on the CSFs and performance evaluation of construction safety management in high‐rise building construction projects. Safety performance of high‐rise building construction projects can be effectively enhanced by improving the professional competence of safety management organizations.
The Alterations of Biofilm Formation and EPS Characteristics of a Diatom by a Sponge-Associated Bacterium Psychrobacter sp.
Authors: Zhou Xiaojian , Meng Jie , Yu Zhaowei , Miao Li , Jin Cuili
Published: June 2018

A sponge-associated bacterium, which was identified as Psychrobacter sp. in this study, was found with high activity against biofilm formation of benthic diatoms, including Amphora sp., Nitzschia closterium, Nitzschia frustulum, and Stauroneis sp. The activity against diatom biofilm formation by the tested strain was confirmed mostly in the culture supernatant and could be extracted using organic solvents. Treatment with its supernatant crude extract significantly reduced the cells of Stauroneis sp. forming biofilm and slightly increased the cells floating in the culture medium, which results in the ratio of biofilm cell/floating cell altering from 0.736 in control to 0.414 in treatment. Use of the supernatant crude extract led to increased production of extracellular polymeric substances (EPSs) by diatom Stauroneis sp. from 16.66 to 41.59 (g/g cell dry weight). The increase in EPS production was mainly contributed by soluble EPS (SL-EPS) and followed by the EPS that was tightly bound to biofilm cells (BF-TB-EPS). In addition, the supernatant crude extract caused significant changes in the monosaccharides composition of the EPS of Stauroneis sp. Specifically, glucuronic acid (Glc-A) and N-acetyl-D-glucosamine (Glc-NAc) in BF-TB-EPS were 55% fold decreased and 1219% fold increased, respectively. Based on our findings, we proposed that these changes in monosaccharides composition might lead to a decreased biofilm formation efficiency of diatom.
Slip Line Theory Based Stability Analysis on the Influence of Deep Excavation on Adjacent Slope
Authors: Zhou Aizhao , Li Chengchao , Jiang Pengming , Yao Kai , Li Na , Wang Wei
Published: June 2018

The impact of deep excavation to the stability of adjacent slope is evaluated based on the slip line theory. Stress field of slope under various excavation conditions is simulated by finite element method, while slip line field is determined by non-associated flow rule. Factor of safety is obtained by integrating the skid-resistance and the shear stress on each slip line, and the slip line with minimum factor of safety corresponds to the critical slip surface. Two typical displacement constraint boundaries are considered. The results indicate that the critical slip surface moves towards to the slope surface and develops downwards. The factor of safety decreases with the excavation process. For flexible displacement constraint boundary, large deformation of supporting pile causes obvious variation of critical slip surface and factor of safety. In terms of the stiff displacement constraint boundary with internal supports, deep excavation only has limited effect on the slope stability.
Finger Prick to Finger Tip: Use of Mobile Phone Technology to Send PKU Blood Results
Authors: Clark Anne , Deverell Deirdre , Corcoran Emma , Macauley Margaret , Newcombe Nicola , Branagan Peter , Coughlan Aoife , Daly Eimear , Moore Heslin Aoibhin , Crushell Ellen , Hughes Joanne , Knerr Ina , Monavari Ahmad
Published: June 2018

The Metabolic Dietetic Team in the National Centre for Inherited Metabolic Disorders (NCIMD) in Ireland deals with approximately 120 weekly phenylalanine (Phe) levels for both adults and children. A review of 500 Phe levels highlighted that 52% of the results were within the target range. Collaboration between information and communication technologies (ICT) departments, metabolic laboratory, and metabolic dietitians enabled the development of the PKU texting system. Following a successful pilot study, the system was then offered to all PKU patients aged over 2 years. The Phe is analysed and authorised on the laboratory system. The demographics are matched with the patient mobile phone number. Text messages are then validated and sent by the dietitian via a web portal using the Defero SMS texting service. Approximately 290 patients/families currently use the texting system. In order to assess the effectiveness of this quality improvement initiative, a patient survey was carried out in 2017. This showed 87% rated the system as either very good or excellent. 94% agreed it was time saving. 84% felt there was no influence on dietary compliance. Analysis of financial implications on dietetic time over 21 months revealed savings of €3,275 and 580 hours of dietetic time. There is no evidence, two years after implementation, that the system has had an effect on either the Phe levels in terms of recommended range or frequency of sampling.
Endodontic and Restorative Treatment Patterns of Pulpally Involved Immature Permanent Posterior Teeth
Authors: Al-Madi Ebtissam M. , Al Saleh Samar A. , Bukhary Sundus M. , Al-Ghofaily Maha M.
Published: June 2018

Objective. The study aims at investigating the treatment patterns for young permanent posterior teeth with pulp involvement. Materials and Methods. A random sample of 1793 dental records of patients aged 6–18 years old who had received dental treatment was investigated. 663 permanent posterior treated teeth had pulp involvement. Demographic and treatment data were gathered from patients’ records. Results. Prevalence of young permanent teeth with pulp involvement was 36.9%. Treatments received significantly increased as patients’ age increased (P=0.001). The first mandibular molar had the most pulp involvement among all teeth (43.89%). Temporary restoration was the most received restoration (59%). The most common pulpal diagnosis, leading to treatment, was irreversible pulpitis (43.04%). Only 19.8% of treated teeth received completed root canal treatment. Conclusion. There is a high percentage of children and adolescents with immature permanent posterior teeth with pulp involvement. Similarly, a variety of treatment patterns is present, with a small percentage of completed root canal treatment. Clinical Relevance. The study has identified the need to provide guidelines to provide high-quality root canal treatments for young permanent posterior teeth that have pulpal involvement. Only 21.8% of root canal treatments were completed, while 24% of teeth were extracted, and 59% of patients received temporary restorative treatments. This suggests that there might be several factors that might prevent completion of the dental treatment, such as patient preference, insurance coverage, or dentist capability. These factors and guidelines for patient care should be investigated and resolved.
mTOR Inhibitor Therapy and Metabolic Consequences: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Kezic Aleksandra , Popovic Ljiljana , Lalic Katarina
Published: June 2018

mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) protein kinase acts as a central integrator of nutrient signaling pathways. Besides the immunosuppressive role after solid organ transplantations or in the treatment of some cancers, another promising role of mTOR inhibitor as an antiaging therapeutic has emerged in the recent years. Acute or intermittent rapamycin treatment has some resemblance to calorie restriction in metabolic effects such as an increased insulin sensitivity. However, the chronic inhibition of mTOR by macrolide rapamycin or other rapalogs has been associated with glucose intolerance and insulin resistance and may even provoke type II diabetes. These metabolic adverse effects limit the use of mTOR inhibitors. Metformin is a widely used drug for the treatment of type 2 diabetes which activates AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK), acting as calorie restriction mimetic. In addition to the glucose‐lowering effect resulting from the decreased hepatic glucose production and increased glucose utilization, metformin induces fatty acid oxidations. Here, we review the recent advances in our understanding of the metabolic consequences regarding glucose metabolism induced by mTOR inhibitors and compare them to the metabolic profile provoked by metformin use. We further suggest metformin use concurrent with rapalogs in order to pharmacologically address the impaired glucose metabolism and prevent the development of new‐onset diabetes mellitus after solid organ transplantations induced by the chronic rapalog treatment.
A Low-Cost Consistent Vehicle Localization Based on Interval Constraint Propagation
Authors: Wang Zhan , Lambert Alain
Published: June 2018

Probabilistic techniques (such as Extended Kalman Filter and Particle Filter) have long been used to solve robotic localization and mapping problem. Despite their good performance in practical applications, they could suffer inconsistency problems. This paper proposes an interval analysis based method to estimate the vehicle pose (position and orientation) in a consistent way, by fusing low-cost sensors and map data. We cast the localization problem into an Interval Constraint Satisfaction Problem (ICSP), solved via Interval Constraint Propagation (ICP) techniques. An interval map is built when a vehicle embedding expensive sensors navigates around the environment. Then vehicles with low-cost sensors (dead reckoning and monocular camera) can use this map for ego-localization. Experimental results show the soundness of the proposed method in achieving consistent localization.
Human-Inspired Reflex to Autonomously Prevent Slip of Grasped Objects Rotated with a Prosthetic Hand
Authors: Ray Zachary , Engeberg Erik D.
Published: June 2018

Autonomously preventing grasped objects from slipping out of prosthetic hands is an important feature for limb-absent people since they cannot directly feel the grip force applied to grasped objects. Oftentimes, a satisfactory grip force in one situation will be inadequate in different situations, such as when the object is rotated or transported. Over time, people develop a grip reflex to prevent slip of grasped objects when they are rotated with respect to gravity by their natural hands. However, this reflexive trait is absent in commercially available prosthetic hands. This paper explores a human-inspired grasp reflex controller for prosthetic hands to prevent slip of objects when they are rotated. This novel human-inspired grasped object slip prevention controller is evaluated with 6 different objects in benchtop tests and by 12 able-bodied subjects during human experiments replicating realistic tasks of daily life. An analysis of variance showed highly significant improvement in the number of successfully completed cycles for both the benchtop and human tests when the slip prevention reflex was active. An object sorting task, which was designed to serve as a cognitive distraction for the human subjects while controlling the prosthetic hand, had a significant impact on many of the performance metrics. However, assistance from the novel slip prevention reflex mitigated the effects of the distraction, offering an effective method for reducing both object slip and the required cognitive load from the prosthetic hand user.
Sensitivity of Service Life Extension and CO2 Emission due to Repairs by Silane Treatment Applied on Concrete Structures under Time‐Dependent Chloride Attack
Authors: Petcherdchoo Aruz
Published: June 2018

This paper presents sensitivity of service life extension and CO2 emission due to silane (alkyltriethoxysilane) treatment on concrete structures under time‐dependent chloride attack. The service life is predicted by the Crank–Nicolson‐based finite difference approach for avoiding the complexity in solving Fick’s second law. The complexity occurs due to time‐dependent chloride attack and nonconstant diffusion coefficient of concrete with silane treatment. At the application time of silane treatment, the cumulative CO2 emission is assessed. The effectiveness of silane treatment is defined as the ratio of the service life extension to the cumulative CO2 emission assessed within the corrosion‐free service life. The service life extension is defined as the difference between corrosion‐free service life of concrete structures without and with time‐based application of silane treatment. From the study, the diffusion of chlorides in concrete with silane treatment is found to be retarded. In comparison, the strategy without deterioration of silanes during effective duration is more suitable for service life extension but less effective than that with deterioration. In the sensitivity analysis, there are up to eight parameters to be determined. The service life of concrete structures without silane treatment is most sensitive to the water‐to‐cement ratio and the threshold depth of concrete structures. Considering only five parameters in silane treatment strategies, the service life is most sensitive to the first application time of silane treatment. The cumulative CO2 emission is most sensitive to either the first application time of silane treatment or the amount of CO2 emission per application.
Study on Thickness Thinning Ratio of the Forming Parts in Single Point Incremental Forming Process
Authors: Yang Mingshun , Yao Zimeng , Li Yan , Li Pengyang , Cui Fengkui , Bai Lang
Published: June 2018

An excessive thickness‐reducing ratio of the deformation zone in single point incremental forming of the metal sheet process has an important influence on the forming limit. Prediction of the deformation zone thickness is an important approach to control the thinning ratio. Taking the 1060 aluminum as the research object, the principle of thickness deformation in the single point incremental forming process was analyzed; the finite element model was established using ABAQUS. A formula with high accuracy to predict the deformation zone thickness was fitted with the simulation results, and the influences of process parameters, such as tool diameter, step down, feeding speed, sheet thickness, and forming angle, on thinning ratio were analyzed. The accuracy of the finite element simulation was verified by experiment. A method to control the thinning rate by changing the forming trajectory was proposed. The results showed that the obtained value by using the fitted formula is closer to the experimental results than that obtained by the sine theorem. The thinning rate of the deformation zone increases with the increase of tool diameter, forming angle, and sheet thickness and decreases with the increase of step down, while the feeding speed had no significant effect on the thinning ratio. The most important factor of the thinning ratio is the forming angle, and the thinning ratio can be effectively reduced by using the forming trajectory with a uniformly distributed pressing point.