bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Optimality in Parallel Scheduling
Authors: Berg Benjamin , Dorsman Jan-Pieter , Harchol-Balter Mor
Published: March 2018

To keep pace with Moore's law, chip designers have focused on increasing the number of cores per chip rather than single core performance. In turn, modern jobs are often designed to run on any number of cores. However, to effectively leverage these multi-core chips, one must address the question of how many cores to assign to each job. Given that jobs receive sublinear speedups from additional cores, there is an obvious tradeoff: allocating more cores to an individual job reduces the job's runtime, but in turn decreases the efficiency of the overall system. We ask how the system should schedule jobs across cores so as to minimize the mean response time over a stream of incoming jobs.

To answer this question, we develop an analytical model of jobs running on a multi-core machine. We prove that EQUI, a policy which continuously divides cores evenly across jobs, is optimal when all jobs follow a single speedup curve and have exponentially distributed sizes. EQUI requires jobs to change their level of parallelization while they run. Since this is not possible for all workloads, we consider a class of "fixed-width" policies, which choose a single level of parallelization, k, to use for all jobs. We prove that, surprisingly, it is possible to achieve EQUI's performance without requiring jobs to change their levels of parallelization by using the optimal fixed level of parallelization, k*. We also show how to analytically derive the optimal k* as a function of the system load, the speedup curve, and the job size distribution.

In the case where jobs may follow different speedup curves, finding a good scheduling policy is even more challenging. In particular, we find that policies like EQUI which performed well in the case of a single speedup function now perform poorly. We propose a very simple policy, GREEDY*, which performs near-optimally when compared to the numerically-derived optimal policy.
DiagSim
Authors: Jo Jae-Eon , Lee Gyu-Hyeon , Jang Hanhwi , Lee Jaewon , Ajdari Mohammadamin , Kim Jangwoo
Published: March 2018

Simulators are the most popular and useful tool to study computer architecture and examine new ideas. However, modern simulators have become prohibitively complex (e.g., 200K+ lines of code) to fully understand and utilize. Users therefore end up analyzing and modifying only the modules of interest (e.g., branch predictor, register file) when performing simulations. Unfortunately, hidden details and inter-module interactions of simulators create discrepancies between the expected and actual module behaviors. Consequently, the effect of modifying the target module may be amplified or masked and the users get inaccurate insights from expensive simulations.

In this article, we propose DiagSim, an efficient and systematic method to diagnose simulators. It ensures the target modules behave as expected to perform simulation in a healthy (i.e., accurate and correct) way. DiagSim is efficient in that it quickly pinpoints the modules showing discrepancies and guides the users to inspect the behavior without investigating the whole simulator. DiagSim is systematic in that it hierarchically tests the modules to guarantee the integrity of individual diagnosis and always provide reliable results. We construct DiagSim based on generic category-based diagnosis ideas to encourage easy expansion of the diagnosis.

We diagnose three popular open source simulators and discover hidden details including implicitly reserved resources, un-documented latency factors, and hard-coded module parameter values. We observe that these factors have large performance impacts (up to 156%) and illustrate that our diagnosis can correctly detect and eliminate them.
Effect of Sodium Thiosulfate on Arterial Stiffness in End-Stage Renal Disease Patients Undergoing Chronic Hemodialysis (Sodium Thiosulfate-Hemodialysis Study): A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Saengpanit Donlawat , Chattranukulchai Pairoj , Tumkosit Monravee , Siribumrungwong Monchai , Katavetin Pisut , Sitprija Visith , Praditpornsilpa Kearkiat , Eiam-Ong Somchai , Susantitaphong Paweena
Published: March 2018

Background: Arterial stiffness (AS) and vascular calcification are significantly related to a high cardiovascular mortality risk in hemodialysis (HD) patients. Intravenous sodium thiosulfate (IV STS) can prevent and delay the vascular calcification progression in uremic states; however, the STS effect on AS has not been assessed. This study aimed to evaluate the STS efficacy on vascular calcification and AS in HD patients. Methods: Fifty HD patients with abnormal AS, as measured via the cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI ≥8), were prospectively randomized to open-label 12.5 g IV STS during the last HD hour twice weekly for 6 months (n = 24) or the usual care (control group; n = 26). Patients and treating physicians were not blinded. The CAVI, coronary artery calcification (CAC) score, hemodynamics, and biochemical parameters were measured at the baseline and at 3 and 6 months. Results: All the baseline parameters were comparable. The IV STS significantly reduced the CAVI when compared to the control group (mean CAVI difference = –0.53; 95% CI –1.00 to –0.06; p = 0.03). A significant CAVI improvement was seen in those patients without diabetes mellitus. The natural logarithm of the CAC volume score was significantly increased in the control group. The high sensitivity C-reactive protein level was slightly lowered in the IV STS group (not significant). Conclusion: The intradialytic STS treatment significantly reduced the AS, as measured by the CAVI, and stabilized the vascular calcification in the HD patients. STS may be a novel therapeutic strategy for delaying and treating the structural and functional vascular wall abnormalities in HD patients.
Ossabaw Pigs With a PCSK9 Gain‐of‐Function Mutation Develop Accelerated Coronary Atherosclerotic Lesions: A Novel Model for Preclinical Studies
Authors: Yuan Fang , Guo Liang , Park Kyoung‐Ha , Woollard John R. , Taek‐Geun Kwon , Jiang Kai , Melkamu Tamene , Zang Bin , Smith Samantha L. , Fahrenkrug Scott C. , Kolodgie Frank D. , Lerman Amir , Virmani Renu , Lerman Lilach O. , Carlson Daniel F.
Published: March 2018

Background

Ossabaw pigs are unique miniature swine with genetic predisposition to develop metabolic syndrome and coronary atherosclerosis after extended periods receiving atherogenic diets. We have hypothesized that transgenic Ossabaw swine expressing chimp
PCSK9
(proprotein convertase subtilisin‐like/kexin type 9) containing the D374Y gain of function would develop familial hypercholesterolemia and coronary artery plaques more rapidly than Landrace swine with the same transgene.

Methods and Results

Ossabaw and Landrace
PCSK9
gain‐of‐function founders were generated by
Sleeping Beauty
transposition and cloning. Histopathologic findings in the Ossabaw founder animal showed more advanced plaques and higher stenosis than in the Landrace founder, underscoring the Ossabaw genetic predisposition to atherosclerosis. We chose to further characterize the Ossabaw
PCSK9
gain‐of‐function animals receiving standard or atherogenic diets in a 6‐month longitudinal study using computed tomography, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, intravascular ultrasound, and optical coherence tomography, followed by pathological analysis of atherosclerosis focused on the coronary arteries. The Ossabaw model was consistently hypercholesterolemic, with or without dietary challenge, and by 6 months had consistent and diffuse fibrofatty or fibroatheromatous plaques with necrosis, overlying fibrous caps, and calcification in up to 10% of coronary plaques.

Conclusions

The Ossabaw
PCSK9
gain‐of‐function model provides consistent and robust disease development in a time frame that is practical for use in preclinical therapeutic evaluation to drive innovation. Although no animal model perfectly mimics the human condition, this genetic large‐animal model is a novel tool for testing therapeutic interventions in the context of developing and advanced coronary artery disease.
Children on the Front Lines: Responsibility to Protect in the Israeli/Palestinian Conflict
Authors: Spitka Timea
Published: March 2018

Children are disproportionally affected in violent conflict, are vulnerable to exploitation and lack protection when a state is failing in its responsibility to protect. In the Israeli/Palestinian conflict, children, particularly those living in Gaza, East Jerusalem, parts of the West Bank are not only vulnerable during escalations but are subject to exploitation, detentions and severe security measures. Divisions over culpability have made the local representatives and the international community incapable or unwilling to take collective action to protect this most vulnerable population. Given the divisive international context, are there R2P tools that can be used effectively to enhance protection for children and teenagers in the Israeli/Palestinian conflict? The focus on the protection of children demonstrates: Firstly, the need to closely analyse current protection tools particularly under Pillar iii of R2P, Secondly, the importance to eradicate unintended effects of protection efforts, and finally the potential contribution of focus on children towards reaching a consensus on a protection regime.
On the dumping ground genus Scotaena Klug, 1810 (Hymenoptera: Tiphiidae: Thynninae): Phylogeny, taxonomy and geographic distribution
Authors: CARNIMEO FERNANDO HENRIQUE , NOLL FERNANDO BARBOSA
Published: March 2018

The Neotropical thynnine genus Scotaena is revised and a cladistic analysis is presented. The analysis, conducted from 75 morphological characters of 31 terminal taxa, returned a single tree under equal weighting. The monophyly of Scotaena was not recovered. Three new genera and five new species are described: Kaysara gen. nov., Pseudoscotaena gen. nov. and Pampathynnus gen. nov., Scotaena reversa sp. nov., Kaysara laterolata sp. nov., Kaysara apiciconcava sp. nov., Kaysara marginoplicata sp. nov. and Kaysara levicrenata sp. nov. Three species are transferred to other genera as follows: Eucyrtothynnus rosenbergi (Turner, 1910) comb. nov., Glottynoides genisei Kimsey, 1991 comb. nov., Ornepetes clypearis Durán-Moya, 1941 comb. nov. Scotaena now comprises four species: S. trifasciata Klug, 1810; S. horni (Turner, 1927); S. vetusta Turner, 1909; and S. reversa. An identification key and geographical distribution maps for the studied species are also provided.
Attributes of Weathercasters Who Engage in Climate Change Education Outreach
Authors: Perkins IV David R. , Myers Teresa , Francis Zephi , Mazzone Raphael , Maibach Edward
Published: March 2018

This research explores the role of weathercasters as local climate change educators and identifies attributes of those who present climate science to their viewers. In 2015, the authors attempted to survey all television weathercasters currently working in the United States (n = 2128); 478 participated, yielding a 22.5% participation rate. Using logistic regression to identify attributes of weathercasters who report on climate change on-air, it was found that the strongest predictors were participation in Climate Matters (a climate change reporting resource program) (β = 1.01, p < 0.001), personal interest in reporting on climate change (β = 0.93, p < 0.001), age (higher rates of reporting among older weathercasters) (β = 0.301, p < 0.05), and number of climate reporting interests (β = 1.37, p < 0.05). Linear regression was used to identify attributes of weathercasters who showed the most interest in climate change reporting. Weathercasters most interested in reporting about climate change on-air were more certain that climate change is happening (β = 0.344, p < 0.001), were convinced climate change is human caused (β = 0.226, p < 0.001), were older (β = 0.157, p < 0.001), and found the Third National Climate Assessment to be useful (β = 0.134, p < 0.05). Weathercasters who are personally motivated to seek and share broad scientific information, acting as “station scientists,” appear to be those who are also proactive in sharing climate change information. Assisting motivated weathercasters with programs that reduce barriers to climate change education outreach complements their abilities to educate the public regarding climate change science.
Differences in Spatial Knowledge of Individuals With Blindness When Using Audiotactile Maps, Using Tactile Maps, and Walking
Authors: Papadopoulos Konstantinos , Barouti Marialena , Koustriava Eleni
Published: March 2018

To examine how individuals with visual impairments understand space and the way they develop cognitive maps, we studied the differences in cognitive maps resulting from different methods and tools for spatial coding in large geographical spaces. We examined the ability of 21 blind individuals to create cognitive maps of routes in unfamiliar areas using (a) audiotactile maps, (b) tactile maps, and (c) direct experience of movement along the routes. We also compared participants’ cognitive maps created with the use of audiotactile maps, tactile maps, and independent movement along the routes with regard to their precision (i.e., the correctness or incorrectness of spatial information location) and inclusiveness (i.e., the amount of spatial information included correctly in the cognitive map). The results of the experimental trials demonstrated that becoming familiar with an area is easier for blind individuals when they use a tactile aide, such as an audiotactile map, as compared with walking along the route.
Winds of Change: Assessing China’s Assertive Turn in Foreign Policy
Authors: Chang Liao Nien-chung
Published: March 2018

The current debate on the question of whether China has become more assertive involves two opposing opinions on Beijing’s foreign policy orientation. This article argues that the key question is whether China is about to change its approach to foreign policy, one which has enabled its “peaceful rise” in recent decades. It examines variations in Chinese foreign policy by developing a set of interrelated indicators of changes in a state’s external behavior. The results reveal a marked increase in China’s military spending and power projection capability, foreign aid, and diplomatic initiatives after the 2008 global financial crisis, as well as an expansion of Beijing’s alliance commitments through the establishment of partnership relationships around the world. These findings not only support the increased assertiveness argument but also indicate a larger transformation in Chinese foreign policy—China is becoming more active diplomatically as part of its quest for great power status.
Hygroscopic influence on bistable characteristics of antisymmetric composite cylindrical shells: An experimental study
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Pan Hao , Wu Helong , Jiang Shaofei , Chai Guozhong
Published: March 2018

This paper investigates the effect of moisture on bistable characteristics of antisymmetric composite cylindrical by using experimental and finite element method. The bistable characteristics are characterized by the curvatures of antisymmetric composite cylindrical shells in different stable states and snap processes between the two stable states which are indicated by the load–displacement curve and snap load. The manufactured specimens after dried in the oven are immersed in distilled water to full saturation and the saturated salt solutions (MgCl2) to full saturation. The specimen achieves different moisture that is immersed in distilled water at the different period until full saturation and in the saturated salt solution (MgCl2) with the same period of saturation in distilled water. Specimens with different moisture are then mechanically loaded on a testing machine to transform between two stable states. Load–displacement curves are recorded in the computer, from which the snap loads can be found. After the test, the principal and twisting curvatures are captured by a digital image processing. The results are contrasted with hygroscopic influence on another kind of bistable composite structure (asymmetric cross-ply laminates) in this paper. The results show that the shapes and snap loads of antisymmetric composite cylindrical shells are influenced by the moisture increasing.
Domestic uncertainty, third-party resolve, and international conflict
Authors: DiLorenzo Matthew , Rooney Bryan
Published: March 2018

Uncertainty about resolve is a well-established rationalist explanation for war. In addition to estimating the resolve of immediate rivals, leaders choose their actions in a crisis based on expectations about how third parties will respond. We argue that leaders will become more likely to develop inconsistent estimates of rivals’ relative capabilities and resolve – and thus will become more likely to fight – when domestic political changes occur in states that are allied with an opponent. We also consider how the relationship between conflict in rivalries and third-party domestic change depends on domestic political institutions in the third party. We argue that this effect should only hold when a challenger does not also share an alliance with the third party, and that the effect should be strongest when the third party is a non-democratic state. We test our theory using a dataset of changes in leaders’ domestic supporting coalitions and data on militarized interstate disputes from 1920 to 2001. Consistent with our hypotheses, we find that the likelihood of conflict increases in rivalries only when domestic coalition changes occur in states that share an alliance with only one member of a rivalry, and that this effect is strongest and most consistent for non-democratic third parties.
Repressing for reputation
Authors: Licht Amanda A , Allen Susan Hannah
Published: March 2018

When do leaders use repression? Leadership transitions disrupt the relationship between regime and citizens, introducing uncertainty about whether the state will use force to put down dissent. This shock to the equilibrium level of repression and dissent threatens the survival of new leaders by inviting challenges, incentivizing them to build a deterrent reputation. Investing in repression early allows a rapid re-equilibration, leading to a decrease in the probability of increased repression as a leader gains experience in office. Some leaders, therefore, have a reason to put down dissent early in their tenure to clearly establish a reputation for toughness, one that exists distinct from that of the state or the regime. These dynamics surface only for leaders that break with the prior regime. Those closely linked to the existing order can draw upon an established reputation and need not develop their own. Statistical analyses of changes in repression intensity from 1990 to 2005 reveal strong support for the argument. Breaks with the prior regime produce a short-term increase in repression, but leaders who come to power via such transitions become less likely to change the level of coercion the longer they remain in office. Leaders tied directly to the prior administration exhibit neither tendency.
15-Year Secular Trends in Cognitive Function Among Older Adults in the United States
Authors: Frith Emily , Loprinzi Paul D.
Published: March 2018

Cognitive impairment is associated with various chronic diseases, including mobility limitation and early mortality. Thus, evaluating changes in cognition is of paramount public health interest. The purpose of this study was to evaluate secular trends in cognitive function among a representative sample of the U.S. older adult population. Data from the 1999–2000, 2001–2002, 2011–2012, and 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were utilized to identify an aggregate sample of adults 60+ years of age. The sample size across the four respective cycles was 1417, 1558, 1422, and 1592. Three cognitive assessments were employed, including the CERAD Word Learning subset (Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer’s disease), the Animal Fluency test, and the Digit Symbol Substitution Test (DSST). For the entire sample and several subpopulations, DSST scores increased from 1999 to 2012 and then decreased in the 2013 to 2014 cycle. For all CERAD trials, there was evidence of increased CERAD performance from 2011–2012 to 2013–2014. No secular trends were observed for the Animal Fluency task across these cycles. Select cognitive parameters appear to be improving among U.S. older adults. Future work is needed to further explore secular trends in cognitive sustainability, and, as evidenced by our present study, cognitive enrichment over time.
Effects of cultivation, washing, and bleaching conditions on bacterial cellulose fabric production
Authors: Han Juyeon , Shim Euijin , Kim Hye Rim
Published: March 2018

This study aims to compare different conditions in the three-step (cultivation, washing, and bleaching) production of white bacterial cellulose (BC) fabric to introduce it as a new type of fabric in the textile industry. The BC fabric was evaluated on the basis of its surface morphology and chemical structure. The “production BC” after the cultivation step was cultured using glucose as the carbon source in the Hestrin–Schramm (HS) medium. It was produced with the highest production yield (33.2 ± 6.85%), the highest thickness (0.35 ± 0.09 mm), and the flattest surface (211 nm). The bacteria remaining on “washed BC” after the washing step were washed out using 3% NaOH solution, and the nanoscale network structure maintained its integrity after washing. The white BC fabric after the bleaching step was bleached using 5% H2O2 solution. The white BC fabric with the highest white index (73.15 ± 1.09%) without a natural yellowish-brown color was produced. In the Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra of the white BC fabric, the peaks of proteins and amino acids derived from the bacteria disappeared, while the cellulose I crystal structure was maintained. Also, X-ray diffraction analysis showed that the crystallinity of the white BC fabric increased compared to that of the control sample, and the highest crystallinity of 80.6% was obtained.
Undergraduate Students’ Attitudes Toward Individuals With Disabilities
Authors: Carlson Wendy , Witschey Hannah
Published: March 2018

This study examined whether combining classroom curriculum with direct experience with people with disabilities (PWDs) can influence change in undergraduate students’ attitudes toward PWDs. Undergraduate students ( N = 68) enrolled in a psychology course completed the Interaction with Disabled Persons Scale at the beginning and end of the semester. During the semester, students learned about various disabilities and participated in a 10-hr service-learning project that required direct, supervised interaction with PWDs at a local, nonprofit organization that provides employment services to adults with disabilities. Students reported more positive attitudes toward PWDs at the end of the semester. Having an increased comfort level in interacting with PWDs can give students pursuing careers that involve working with PWDs an advantage.
Definitions and the Development of Theory in Social Psychology
Authors: Sell Jane
Published: March 2018

Formal definitions specify what is necessary and sufficient for the identification of a particular term. These formal definitions use precise language and do not admit contradictions; they are exact class. There are multiple advantages of exact class definitions. They enable us to confidently use deductive arguments so we can ensure that the terms in the premises match the terms in the conclusion. They prevent sloppiness and circularity of logic. They also help us look beyond common sense or what we think we already know. I illustrate these advantages and also the problems that can occur when definitions are not exact class.
The associations of intimacy and sexuality in daily life
Authors: van Lankveld Jacques , Jacobs Nele , Thewissen Viviane , Dewitte Marieke , Verboon Peter
Published: March 2018

The experience of emotional intimacy is assumed to play a particularly large role in maintaining sexual desire and partnered sexual activity in romantic relationships of longer duration. It is unclear whether the effect of intimacy on sexual contact between partners is direct or indirect, via its impact on sexual desire. Baumeister and Bratslavsky suggested that a certain increment in emotional intimacy causes a greater increment in sexual desire in men than in women. In the present study, we aimed to test the mediating role of sexual desire between perceived intimacy and sexual partner interaction and the gender effect as hypothesized by Baumeister and Bratslavsky. Experience sampling methodology in the participant’s natural environment was used. At 10 quasi-random moments per day, during 7 consecutive days, 134 participants reported their feelings of emotional intimacy, sexual desire, and sexual activity. The direct effect of intimacy on sexual partner interaction was not significant, but an indirect effect via sexual desire was observed. The strength of the association between intimacy and sexual desire diminished over time, from the strongest effect when intimacy, sexual desire, and sexual activity were measured simultaneously to a very small, but significant effect at an average time lag of 3 hr. At still larger time gaps, no effects were found. Men reported a higher average level of sexual desire than women, but the strength of the link between (increases in) intimacy and sexual desire was not different between the genders. The present findings suggest that in both male and female partners in romantic, long-term relationships, higher levels of intimacy are associated with higher sexual desire, which is, in turn, associated with higher odds for partnered sexual activity to occur. The temporal association of increasing intimacy and subsequent sexual desire appears not to be different in women and men.
Do selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors increase the risk of bleeding or mortality following coronary artery bypass graft surgery? A meta-analysis of observational studies
Authors: Eckersley Martyn J. , Sepehripour Amir H. , Casula Roberto , Punjabi Prakash , Athanasiou Thanos
Published: March 2018

Introduction:

Depressive illness has a high prevalence in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG). The first line treatment for depression are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) which inhibit serotonin reuptake in the presynaptic neuronal membrane and uptake by platelets, inhibiting subsequent serotonin-mediated platelet activation. This presents a theoretically increased risk of bleeding and subsequent postoperative mortality. This review aims to investigate the effects of SSRIs on postoperative bleeding, defined as the need for transfusions and re-operation for bleeding, as well as 30-day mortality in patients undergoing CABG.

Method:

Four hundred and thirty-seven papers were screened with seven meeting the full inclusion criteria.

Results:

Meta-analysis demonstrated that SSRI use increased the risk of red blood cell transfusion (odds ratio (OR) = 1.15; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06-1.26), but resulted in no difference in the rate of re-operation for bleeding (OR = 1.07; 95% CI: 0.66-1.74). SSRI use had no effect on the rates of platelet (OR = 0.93; 95% CI: 0.79-1.09) or fresh frozen plasma (OR = 0.96; 95% CI: 0.74-1.24) transfusion nor on the mortality rate (OR =1.03; 95 CI: 0.90-1.17).

Conclusion:

This review demonstrates that SSRIs are largely safe in cardiac surgery as no increase in mortality was observed. However, there is a significantly raised chance of red blood cell transfusion. The heterogeneous nature of the current evidence base highlights the need for further research into SSRIs and whether any effect on patient outcomes in cardiac surgery occurs.
The use of behavioural theories in end-of-life care research: A systematic review
Authors: Scherrens Anne-Lore , Beernaert Kim , Robijn Lenzo , Deliens Luc , Pauwels Nele S , Cohen Joachim , Deforche Benedicte
Published: March 2018

Background:

It is necessary to understand behaviours that contribute to improvement in the quality of end-of-life care; use of behavioural theories allows identification of factors underlying end-of-life care behaviour, but little is known about the extent to which, and in what manner, these theories are used in an end-of-life care research context.

Aim:

To assess the number of end-of-life care studies that have used behavioural theories, which theories were used, to what extent main constructs were explored/measured and which behavioural outcomes were examined.

Design:

We conducted a systematic review. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42016036009).

Data sources:

The MEDLINE (PubMed), PsycINFO, EMBASE, Web of Science and CINAHL databases were searched from inception to June 2017. We included studies aimed at understanding or changing end-of-life care behaviours and that explicitly referred to individual behavioural theories.

Results:

We screened 2231 records by title and abstract, retrieved 43 full-text articles and included 31 studies – 27 quantitative (of which four (quasi-)randomised controlled trials) and four qualitative – for data extraction. More than half used the Theory of Planned Behaviour (9), the Theory of Reasoned Action (4) or the Transtheoretical Model (8). In 9 of 31 studies, the theory was fully used, and 16 of the 31 studies focussed on behaviours in advance care planning.

Conclusion:

In end-of-life care research, the use of behavioural theories is limited. As many behaviours can determine the quality of care, their more extensive use may be warranted if we want to better understand and influence behaviours and improve end-of-life care.
Thoracic-abdominal imaging with a novel dual-layer spectral detector CT: intra-individual comparison of image quality and radiation dose with 128-row single-energy acquisition
Authors: Haneder Stefan , Siedek Florian , Doerner Jonas , Pahn Gregor , Grosse Hokamp Nils , Maintz David , Wybranski Christian
Published: March 2018

Background

A novel, multi-energy, dual-layer spectral detector computed tomography (SDCT) is commercially available now with the vendor’s claim that it yields the same or better quality of polychromatic, conventional CT images like modern single-energy CT scanners without any radiation dose penalty.

Purpose

To intra-individually compare the quality of conventional polychromatic CT images acquired with a dual-layer spectral detector (SDCT) and the latest generation 128-row single-energy-detector (CT128) from the same manufacturer.

Material and Methods

Fifty patients underwent portal-venous phase, thoracic-abdominal CT scans with the SDCT and prior CT128 imaging. The SDCT scanning protocol was adapted to yield a similar estimated dose length product (DLP) as the CT128. Patient dose optimization by automatic tube current modulation and CT image reconstruction with a state-of-the-art iterative algorithm were identical on both scanners. CT image contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was compared between the SDCT and CT128 in different anatomic structures. Image quality and noise were assessed independently by two readers with 5-point-Likert-scales. Volume CT dose index (CTDIvol), and DLP were recorded and normalized to 68 cm acquisition length (DLP68).

Results

The SDCT yielded higher mean CNR values of 30.0% ± 2.0% (26.4–32.5%) in all anatomic structures ( P < 0.001) and excellent scores for qualitative parameters surpassing the CT128 (all P < 0.0001) with substantial inter-rater agreement (κ ≥ 0.801). Despite adapted scan protocols the SDCT yielded lower values for CTDIvol (–10.1 ± 12.8%), DLP (−13.1 ± 13.9%), and DLP68 (–15.3 ± 16.9%) than the CT128 (all P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

The SDCT scanner yielded better CT image quality compared to the CT128 and lower radiation dose parameters.
The role of ARFI elastography to evaluate microstructrual changes of patients with testicular microlithiasis
Authors: Aslan Serdar , Ceyhan Bilgici Meltem , Saglam Dilek , Ozturk Mesut
Published: March 2018

Background

Testicular microlithiasis (TML) is thought to cause microstructural changes in the parenchyma of the testis, but it is difficult to demonstrate this by ultrasonography. It may be possible to evaluate microstructural changes in the testis by Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) elastography, which measures tissue stiffness.

Purpose

To assess the tissue stiffness of testicles of children with TML and to compare them with the healthy control group.

Material and Methods

Between November 2015 and May 2016, 25 pediatric patients with TML and 24 healthy children were enrolled in the study (mean age for TML and control group 6.7 ± 3.17 and 7.9 ± 4.18 years, respectively). Testicular volumes and mean shear wave velocity (SWV) values were calculated and compared with each other in both groups.

Results

There was no significant difference in average testicular volumes between the TML group and the control group (1.14 cm3, 1.21 cm3, respectively; P = 0.986). Mean SWV of the testicles with TML and normal testicles with control group was 1.18 ± 0.22 cm/s and 0.88 ± 0.11 cm/s, respectively. The SWV of the testicles with TML was higher than the normal testicles and this was statistically significant ( P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study has shown that tissue stiffness in patients with TML is increased compared to the normal population. ARFI elastography helps the early detection of microstructural changes in TML and can be used for screening and follow-up.
Adopting Minds — a mentalization-based therapy for families in a post-adoption support service: preliminary evaluation and service user experience
Authors: Midgley Nick , Alayza Adriana , Lawrence Hannah , Bellew Rebecca
Published: March 2018

Children placed for adoption often face unique challenges and are at higher risk of mental health problems compared to the general population. Yet despite some important clinical developments, there is still a lack of evidence related to effective therapeutic interventions for this population. This study reports on the preliminary evaluation of a mentalization-based family therapy service, Adopting Minds, offered as part of a post-adoption support service. Thirty-six families who had adopted 42 children were referred to the service between September 2015 and December 2016. Demographic information was collected and assessments undertaken on the families at baseline and at the end of therapy, using a range of validated measures. Five families who had completed therapy were also interviewed about their experience of the approach. For those families on which data were available, positive outcomes in mental health and parental self-efficacy were identified, and adoptive parents reported high levels of satisfaction with the mentalization-based family therapy service. Analysis of the interviews revealed that the families found it a containing space that was supportive and non-judgemental. They felt able to express their fears and worries to a therapist who was friendly and knowledgeable and reported that the service helped them to deal with and link struggles they were facing to their own as well as their child's past experiences. However, some adoptive families felt that this short-term, six-session service alone was not enough to address all the difficulties that had brought the family to seek help, and would have preferred a longer-term intervention or therapy in combination with other types of support.
The support needs and experiences of newly formed adoptive families: findings from the Wales Adoption Study
Authors: Meakings Sarah , Ottaway Heather , Coffey Amanda , Palmer Claire , Doughty Julie , Shelton Katherine
Published: March 2018

This article reports on findings from the Wales Adoption Study which used a sequential, mixed-method design to explore the early support needs and experiences of newly formed adoptive families. Ninety-six adoptive parents completed a questionnaire four months post-placement and a sub-sample of 40 parents was interviewed in-depth five months thereafter. The main support needs of the families fell within five key domains: promoting children's health and development; strengthening family relationships; fostering children's identity; managing contact with birth parents and significant others; and financial and legal assistance.

While the age and developmental stage of the child placed for adoption often influenced the nature of the support required across the various domains, the need for some form of support in every family was universal. Most, however, were not facing insurmountable difficulties. Arguably, many of the support needs identified could have been anticipated as they illustrate the complexities of ‘normal’ adoptive family life. The implications for social work practice are discussed.
A proposed strengthening model considering interaction of concrete-stirrup-FRP system for RC beams shear-strengthened with EB-FRP sheets
Authors: Li Weiwen , Hu Chengyue , Pan Zejie , Peng Wei , Yang Yong , Xing Feng
Published: March 2018

Many factors can affect the shear capacity of fiber-reinforced polymer in reinforced concrete beams shear-strengthened with externally bonded fiber-reinforced polymer composites. Undoubtedly, the interaction of concrete-stirrup-fiber-reinforced polymer system is one of the key factors. However, most of the existing fiber-reinforced polymer design guidelines do not take account of this important factor on predicting fiber-reinforced polymer shear capacity. This study provides an advanced strengthening model that comprehensively considers the interaction among concrete, stirrup, and fiber-reinforced polymer for calculating the fiber-reinforced polymer effective strain. The advanced strengthening model provides a more accurate prediction for the fiber-reinforced polymer shear contribution compared with existing design guidelines.
New additive manufacturing technology for fibre-reinforced plastics in skeleton structure
Authors: Holzinger Michael , Blase Johannes , Reinhardt Andreas , Kroll Lothar
Published: March 2018

In order to process structural materials in additive manufacturing, a three-dimensional printing process with high deposition rate was developed. The process enables new design approaches for structural parts in automotive applications, combining continuous fibre-reinforced thermoplastics with short fibre-reinforced thermoplastics. For the combination of these materials, adhesion and the influence of the process parameters on adhesion is crucial. Within this study the adhesion has been measured in peel tests according to ASTM D, 6862, and the interface was investigated by optical microscopy. The adhesion process was evaluated by thermal imaging. The experiments showed that a good adhesion can be achieved during the printing process, but the continuous fibre-reinforced thermoplastic tape has to be preheated. In addition, an analytical model for the adhesion process has been introduced and validated with experimental results.
Enhanced mechanical and thermal properties of poly (lactic acid)/bamboo fiber composites via surface modification
Authors: Hu Guang , Cai Shenyang , Zhou Yinghui , Zhang Naiwen , Ren Jie
Published: March 2018

Three different kinds of surface treatment procedures were used to modify the surface of bamboo fiber: alkali solution treatment (NaOH), alkali and silane coupling agent treatment (NaOH–KH550) and alkali and titanate coupling agent treatment (NaOH–NDZ201). Then the bamboo fiber reinforced poly (lactic acid) composites were prepared by Haake Mixer and characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, mechanics performance tests, differential scanning calorimetry analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, Vicat softening temperature, X-ray diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that incorporation of surface-treated bamboo fiber obviously improved the mechanical properties of poly (lactic acid). Especially, the tensile, flexural and impact strengths of poly (lactic acid) containing NaOH–NDZ201-treated bamboo fiber were higher than those of poly (lactic acid) containing NaOH and NaOH–KH550-treated bamboo fiber. Moreover, the NaOH–NDZ201-treated bamboo fiber also greatly enhanced the thermal stability of poly (lactic acid). The improvement of mechanical strengths and thermal stability of poly (lactic acid)/bamboo fiber composites might be due to the better interfacial adhesion between poly (lactic acid) and NaOH–NDZ201-treated bamboo fiber.
Trends in Cigarette Advertising, Price-Reducing Promotions, and Policy Compliance in New York State Licensed Tobacco Retailers, 2004 to 2015
Authors: Watson Kimberly A. , Gammon Doris G. , Loomis Brett R. , Juster Harlan R. , Anker Elizabeth
Published: March 2018

Purpose:

To describe the presence of licensed tobacco retailers (LTRs), cigarette advertisements, price-reducing promotions, and compliance with tobacco control policies in New York State from 2004 to 2015 and to discuss implications and lessons learned from 11 years of experience conducting LTR surveys.

Design:

Annual surveys of tobacco advertising from cross-sectional, stratified random samples of LTRs in New York State from 2004 to 2015 were conducted by professional data collectors. Data for 2013 were unavailable as the survey was not fielded in that year.

Setting:

New York State.

Participants:

Licensed tobacco retailers, which are stores licensed to sell tobacco in the state of New York. Between 3.6% (n = 800) and 19.7% (n = 3945) of all LTRs were sampled annually.

Measures:

The presence and number of cigarette advertisements and the presence of price-reducing promotions, required age-of-sale signage, and self-service tobacco displays were documented.

Analysis:

We tested for significant differences between 2014 and 2015 and significant trends overall and by outlet type. We used logistic regression for binary outcomes and Poisson regression for count variables.

Results:

The number of LTRs in New York State decreased 22.9% from 2004 (n = 25 740) to 2015 (n = 19 855). The prevalence and number of cigarette advertisements and the prevalence of cigarette price-reducing promotions decreased significantly over time. Compliance with posting required age-of-sale signs increased significantly from 2004 to 2015 and from 2014 to 2015. Compliance with the ban on self-service tobacco displays was consistently near 100%.

Conclusion:

The tobacco retail environment in New York State improved substantially from 2004 to 2015. The implications of these findings for youth and adult smoking and the associated social costs are unknown; however, decreases in pro-tobacco marketing, decreases in the number of LTRs, and improvements in compliance are likely to have positive impacts on youth and adult smoking outcomes, such as reduced initiation and increased cessation, given previous research findings.
Thoughts About Nursing Curricula: Dark Clouds and Bright Lights
Authors: Turkel Marian C. , Fawcett Jacqueline , Amankwaa Linda , Clarke Pamela N. , Dee Vivien , Eustace Rosemary , Hansell Phyllis Shanley , Jones Dorothy A. , Smith Marlaine C. , Zahourek Rothlyn
Published: March 2018

In this essay, several nurse scholars who are particularly concerned about the contemporary state of nursing science present their concerns about the inclusion of nursing conceptual models and theories in the curricula of nursing programs (dark clouds) and ways in which the concerns have been addressed (bright lights). This essay is the second of two essays that were catalyzed by Barrett’s paper, “Again, What Is Nursing Science?” The first essay was published in the previous issue of Nursing Science Quarterly.
Understanding Childhood Perspectives
Authors: Karnick Paula M.
Published: March 2018

Childhood should be a carefree and happy time. Some children, however, experience feelings of sadness, depression, anxiety, and other behavioral and mental health conditions. Healthcare providers need to develop a keen eye and an understanding demeanor to aid children and identify their needs and concerns. By providing a warm, inviting area for children to express their feelings and being with them in true presence, children may be more forthcoming in providing information about what they value.
Shame on You
Authors: Bunkers Sandra Schmidt
Published: March 2018

The following story is an introduction to an interesting exploration of the concept of shame, providing new insights into this important notion through the humanbecoming theoretical process of concept inventing.
A new approach in the study of the collisions with friction using inertances
Authors: Pandrea Nicolae , Stănescu Nicolae-Doru
Published: March 2018

This paper presents a complete study on the collision with friction of one or two rigid bodies without constraints. The differential formula between the velocities and impulse uses the notion of inertance resulting from the theory of screws (Plückerian coordinates). One thus may calculate the kinematic and dynamic parameters, the velocities and the kinetic energies of the two rigid solids after the collision, and the variation of the kinetic energy. The calculation is detailed for the Newton, Poisson, and energetic variants of the coefficient of restitution. The variation of the kinematic and dynamic parameters in relation to the coefficient of restitution and coefficient of friction for all the three variants are presented and discussed. A numerical example highlights the theory.
Design criterion for asymmetric twin-entry radial turbine for efficiency under steady and pulsating inlet conditions
Authors: Wang Aolin , Zheng Xinqian
Published: March 2018

The internal combustion engine plays an important role in energy conservation and environmental protection. An efficient way to simultaneously reduce the engine fuel consumption and the emissions (NOx) is an asymmetric twin-entry turbine turbocharging system. The asymmetric twin-entry turbine uses a volute that has two scrolls in the axial direction with different throat areas. The smaller area scroll can increase the backpressure to support the exhaust gas recirculation system for lower NOx emissions; meanwhile, the larger area scroll can decrease the backpressure to reduce the exhaust resistance for lower fuel consumption. The area ratio is dependent on the required exhaust gas recirculation rate and fuel consumption. However, there are no guidelines for how to arrange the scrolls, and whether placing the big scroll on the hub side or the shroud side can provide improved results remains unknown. In this paper, two different design types are discussed for the asymmetric turbine, one with the big scroll on the hub side, while the other is on the shroud side. Also, the unsteady computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is under steady and pulsating inlet conditions. The results show that when under steady inlet conditions, the efficiency of the asymmetric turbine with the big scroll on the shroud side is nearly 1.6% higher. However, when facing pulsating inlet conditions, the efficiency of the asymmetric turbine with the big scroll on the hub side is almost 1.1% higher. The difference is due to the different mass flow storage capacities of the two scrolls under pulsating inlet conditions. The design criterion for asymmetric twin-entry turbine states that if the turbocharger is designed for a large volume exhaust manifold, it is better to place the big scroll on the shroud side. If for a small volume exhaust manifold, it is better to set the big scroll on the hub side.