bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Internet Traffic Surveillance & Network Monitoring in India: Case Study of NETRA
Authors: Gupta Rajan , Muttoo Sunil Kumar
Published: January 2017

Internet traffic surveillance is gaining importance in today’s digital world. Lots of international agencies are putting in efforts to monitor the network around their countries to see suspicious activities and illegal or illegitimate transmission of messages. India, being a center of attraction for terrorist activities, is also working towards the development of such surveillance systems. NETRA or Network Traffic Analysis is one such effort being taken by the Indian Government to filter suspicious keywords from messages in the network. But is it good enough to be used at the highest level for security analysis or does the system design needs to be improved as compared to other similar systems around the world; this question is answered through this study. The comparison of NETRA is done against Dish Fire, Prism, and Echelon. The design of the NETRA scheme and implementation level analysis of the system shows few weaknesses like limited memory options, limited channels for monitoring, pre-set filters, ignoring big data demands, security concerns, social values breach and ignoring ethical issues. These can be covered through alternate options which can improve the existing system. The Inclusion of self-similarity models, Self-Configuring Network Monitoring, and smart monitoring through early intrusion detections can be embedded in the architecture of existing surveillance system to give it more depth and make it more robust.
MICROSCOPIC FEATURES OF THE LEAF AND STEM OF Salvia microphylla KUNTH, LAMIACEAE
Authors: DUARTE Marcia R. , SIEBENROCK M. C. N.
Published: January 2017

O gênero Salvia é o maior da família Lamiaceae e inclui representantes que produzem metabólitos secundários de interesse, como terpenoides e flavonoides, com atividades terapêuticas. Dentre as espécies medicinais do táxon, destaca-se S. microphylla, que é uma planta subarbustiva, de folhas elíptico-ovais e flores rosas a vermelhas. É empregada na medicina popular para tratar distúrbios digestivos e espasmos. Este trabalho investigou a anatomia foliar e caulinar da espécie, para subsidiar a diagnose microscópica no controle de qualidade farmacognóstico. O material botânico foi preparado de acordo com técnicas para análise de microscopia de luz e eletrônica de varredura. A folha é anfiestomática, havendo predominância de estômatos diacíticos. A cutícula é estriada, o mesofilo é dorsiventral e a nervura central é côncavo-convexa e percorrida por um feixe vascular colateral. O caule tem secção quadrangular, bainha amilífera e bainha esclerenquimática incompleta aposta ao floema. Tanto o caule quanto a folha exibem tricomas tectores e glandulares. Os primeiros são uni- ou pluricelulares e unisseriados. Os glandulares podem ser capitados, consistindo de pedicelo curto e glândula uni- ou bicelular, ou peltados, tendo pedicelo curto e glândula pluricelular. Esses caracteres se enquadram no padrão da família e devem ser associados a outros critérios para identificação da espécie.
La medición del miedo al delito a través de los barómetros del CIS
Authors: Caro Cabrera Manuel Jesús , Navarro Ardoy Luis
Published: January 2017

En este trabajo se explora si la preocupación por el delito quemanifi esta la población española como problema del país y personal enlos barómetros del CIS es una buena medida del concepto de miedo aldelito. Primero, se muestran las dimensiones del miedo al delito y sepresentan las bases conceptuales y empíricas de la preocupación quedenominamos problematización del delito. Segundo, se evalúa lapertinencia teórica de adoptar dicho concepto como indicador demiedo al delito. Tercero, se presentan datos que demuestran su utilidadempírica. El análisis concluye que la problematización del delito,construida a partir de los barómetros del CIS, es una buena medida demiedo al delito que además incluye ventajas frente a las utilizadas porlas encuestas de victimización.
Los atributos de la discusión política interpersonal como antecedentes de la elaboración cognitiva
Authors: Gil de Zúñiga Navajas Homero
Published: January 2017

La discusión política es un elemento central para el bienestardemocrático de las sociedades actuales. Estudios recientes hanexplorado algunos de los atributos de las redes de discusión política delos individuos, como la fuerza de los vínculos en estas redes (débilesfuertes),su grado de heterogeneidad, la exposición al desacuerdo o elgrado de razonamiento empleado en ellas. Sin embargo, el papel deestos atributos de las redes de discusión como antecedentes de laelaboración cognitiva –la refl exión y el pensamiento posterior sobreaquello de lo que se ha discutido– no ha sido abordado con detalle. Apartir de datos procedentes de una encuesta realizada en EstadosUnidos, el presente estudio muestra que la discusión sobre asuntos deinterés público con «vínculos fuertes» o con «vínculos débiles» tieneefectos diferentes sobre los diversos atributos de las redes dediscusión, así como sobre la elaboración cognitiva posterior.
The Category of Case in English and Albanian Nominal System: A Contrastive Analysis
Authors: Çanta Agnesa
Published: January 2017

The grammatical category of case, as one of the most discussed grammatical categories in English and one of the most specific categories in Albanian, has always attracted the researchers’ attention and, therefore, there are numerous studies about this category in these two respective languages. However, the main purpose of this article is to indicate that despite their different morphological structure which implies differences in their grammatical categories, English and Albanian, also show some similarities that concern the grammatical category of case and especially the genitive case as the only marked case in English nominal system. This article examined the grammatical category of case in English and Albanian nominal system through the contrastive method, emphasizing the differences that regard several aspects of the category of case, such as the number of cases in these two languages, the way they build their case forms, the use of prepositions in building the case forms, i.e., prepositions as case markers, and also several characteristics of the category of case that these two languages have in common. The results indicate that the similarities concern mainly the genitive case. Nouns in the genitive case, in English and Albanian, share some characteristics that concern their semantic functions, their use in “the double genitive” constructions, rules of forming such constructions, and the omission of the case markers without affecting meaning.
Teff-Based Complementary Foods Fortified with Soybean and Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato
Authors: Tenagashaw Mesfin W. , Kenji Glaston M. , Melaku Eneyew T. , Huyskens-Keil Susanne , Kinyuru John N.
Published: January 2017

The macronutrient composition of teff-based complementary foods (ComFs) prepared through extrusion cooking and a combination of household-level strategies were evaluated. In extrusion, teff, soybean and orange-fleshed sweet potato were separately processed into their respective flours and composited in a percentage ratio of 70:20:10, respectively. It was then extruded into a complementary food (ComF1). In the case of household-level methods, portions of teff grains separately germinated for 24 and 48 h were dried and ground to fine flours. Similarly, small portions of soybean grains were separately blanched and roasted; then each were ground to fine flour. Four ComFs (ComF2, ComF3, ComF4, ComF5) were developed by blending flours of ungerminated teff, germinated teff, blanched or roasted soybean and sweet potato using the 70:20:10 ratio. The extrusion cooked ComF had significantly (p < 0.05) high protein (17.92 g/100 g) while the household-level ComFs had lower protein contents. Energy content of the ComFs ranged from 391.63 to 400.60 kcal/100 g. All ComFs met the requirements of protein and energy for 6 to 8 month-old infants. There was no significant difference in the dietary fiber contents of the developed complementary foods despite increased values of insoluble dietary fiber due to germination of teff and blanching or roasting of soybean. The study revealed the potential of developing complementary foods from teff-soybean-sweet potato blends with improved protein and energy contents.
Quantification of Whey Protein Content in Infant Formulas by Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate-Capillary Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-CGE): Single-Laboratory Validation, First Action 2016.15
Authors: Feng Ping , Fuerer Christophe , McMahon Adrienne
Published: January 2017

Protein separation by sodium dodecyl sulfate-capillary gel electrophoresis, followed by UV absorption at 220 nm, allows for the quantification of major proteins in raw milk. In processed dairy samples such as skim milk powder (SMP) and infant formulas, signals from individual proteins are less resolved, but caseins still migrate as one family between two groups of whey proteins. In the first group, α-lactalbumin and β-lactoglobulin migrate as two distinct peaks. Lactosylated adducts show delayed migration times and interfere with peak separation, but both native and modified forms as well as other low-MW whey proteins still elute before the caseins. The second group contains high-MW whey proteins (including bovine serum albumin, lactoferrin, and immunoglobulins) and elutes after the caseins. Caseins and whey proteins can thus be considered two distinct nonoverlapping families whose ratio can be established based on integrated areas without the need for a calibration curve. Because mass-to-area response factors for whey proteins and caseins are different, an area correction factor was determined from experimental measurement using SMP. Method performance assessed on five infant formulas showed RSDs of 0.2–1.2% (within day) and 0.5–1.1% (multiple days), with average recoveries between 97.4 and 106.4% of added whey protein. Forty-three different infant formulas and milk powders were analyzed. Of the 41 samples with manufacturer claims, the measured whey protein content was in close agreement with declared values, falling within 5% of the declared value in 76% of samples and within 10% in 95% of samples.
Selection and evaluation of reference genes for analysis of mouse(Mus musculus) sex-dimorphic brain development
Authors: Cheung Tanya T. , Weston Mitchell K. , Wilson Megan J.
Published: January 2017

The development of the brain is sex-dimorphic, and as a result so are many neurological disorders. One approach for studying sex-dimorphic brain development is to measure gene expression in biological samples using RT-qPCR. However, the accuracy and consistency of this technique relies on the reference gene(s) selected. We analyzed the expression of ten reference genes in male and female samples over three stages of brain development, using popular algorithms NormFinder, GeNorm and Bestkeeper. The top ranked reference genes at each time point were further used to quantify gene expression of three sex-dimorphic genes (Wnt10b,XistandCYP7B1). When comparing gene expression between the sexes expression at specific time points the best reference gene combinations are:Sdha/Pgk1at E11.5,RpL38/SdhaE12.5, andActb/RpL37at E15.5. When studying expression across time, the ideal reference gene(s) differs with sex. For XY samples a combination ofActb/Sdha. In contrast, when studying gene expression across developmental stage with XX samples,Sdha/Gapdhwere the top reference genes. Our results identify the best combination of two reference genes when studying male and female brain development, and emphasize the importance of selecting the correct reference genes for comparisons between developmental stages.
Learning in Online Continuing Professional Development: An Institutionalist View on the Personal Learning Environment
Authors: Johnson Mark William , Prescott Denise , Lyon Sarah
Published: January 2017

The nature of institutions is an important question for the Personal Learning Environment (PLE). Whilst the PLE has tended to focus on what is considered to be “non-institutional” technology like social software, most online tools today have a corporate/institutional foundation. How should educators position themselves with learners who have to negotiate different institutional and discursive contexts – whether within corporate social software, formal education, work or the family? Drawing on previous work focusing on how learners maintain personal coherence in organising learning between different contexts, institutional theory is used to revise the model of the learner as a ‘viable system’, which focuses on the dynamics of transactions that learners make with different institutional entities. Data from an online Continuing Professional Development (CPD) course in acute cancer care is analysed to show how learner transactions indicate constraints bearing upon learners both from their professional context and from their formal educational study. The pattern of learner engagement suggests that the interaction of constraints creates the conditions to motivate in-depth contribution to the course forums. This finding leads us to suggest a rethink of pedagogy within the PLE, and a broader consideration of institutional and other constraints in educational dynamics.
Students’ Perception on Formative and Shared Assessment: Connecting two Universities through the Blogosphere
Authors: Martos-Garcia Daniel , Usabiaga Oidui , Valencia-Peris Alexandra
Published: January 2017

The aim of this study was to evaluate differences in physical education students’ perception on an educational innovation based on formative and peer assessment through the blogosphere. The sample was made up of 253 students from two Spanish universities. Data was collected using a self-reported questionnaire and t tests were employed in order to find differences among students’ groups. Results show significant differences in almost all of the items on which the students were questioned. Basque students were more satisfied with the assessment tool used than the Valencian students. Students found the blogosphere more active, meaningful, functional and motivating and that it made for collaborative learning in comparison to other traditional evaluation methods. They also showed disapproval related to the demands on attendance, continuity and the greater effort required. For future occasions, negotiation about assessment criteria with the students should be implemented right at the very start of the course.
Reggio Emilia: An Essential Tool to Develop Critical Thinking in Early Childhood
Authors: Fernández Santín Mercè , Feliu Torruella Maria
Published: January 2017

We seem to have a problem in arts education at pre-school level: the lack of specific training for teachers teaching this subject to very young children. The future preschool teachers’ training seems to be focused on the teaching and learning aspects of artistic education however they receive little training on methodologies and philosophies. Therefore, when teachers have to face the classroom, the methodologies they use are usually quite traditional and do not favour the development of critical thinking skills in the students. There are different philosophies of arts education that might embed opportunities for reflection, art interpretation, experimentation, expression of emotions and feelings that if, in the case these philosophies, reach the classroom, may doubtlessly enrich the student’s artistic training. Thus a conceptual framework based on one of these philosophies, named Reggio Emilia, arises. A systematic review of the literature which has been developed by categorising criteria from research papers and from examples of good practices. This categorisation might allow us to establish a framework that can be useful in the classrooms and can establish parameters of action that may have an impact on students, teachers and teachers’ practice in general.
Regional amplification of projected changes in extreme temperatures strongly controlled by soil moisture‐temperature feedbacks
Authors: Vogel M. M. , Orth R. , Cheruy F. , Hagemann S. , Lorenz R. , van den Hurk B. J. J. M. , Seneviratne S. I.
Published: January 2017

Regional hot extremes are projected to increase more strongly than global mean temperature, with substantially larger changes than 2°C even if global warming is limited to this level. We investigate the role of soil moisture‐temperature feedbacks for this response based on multimodel experiments for the 21st century with either interactive or fixed (late 20th century mean seasonal cycle) soil moisture. We analyze changes in the hottest days in each year in both sets of experiments, relate them to the global mean temperature increase, and investigate processes leading to these changes. We find that soil moisture‐temperature feedbacks significantly contribute to the amplified warming of the hottest days compared to that of global mean temperature. This contribution reaches more than 70% in Central Europe and Central North America. Soil moisture trends are more important for this response than short‐term soil moisture variability. These results are relevant for reducing uncertainties in regional temperature projections.
Cosmogenic 26Al/10Be surface production ratio in Greenland
Authors: Corbett Lee B. , Bierman Paul R. , Rood Dylan H. , Caffee Marc W. , Lifton Nathaniel A. , Woodruff Thomas E.
Published: January 2017

The assumed value for the cosmogenic 26Al/10Be surface production rate ratio in quartz is an important parameter for studies investigating the burial or subaerial erosion of long‐lived surfaces and sediments. Recent models and data suggest that the production ratio is spatially variable and may be greater than originally thought. Here we present measured 26Al/10Be ratios for 24 continuously exposed bedrock and boulder surfaces spanning ~61–77°N in Greenland. Empirical measurements, such as ours, include nuclides produced predominately by neutron‐induced spallation with percent‐level contributions by muon interactions. The slope of a York regression line fit to our data is 7.3 ± 0.3 (1σ), suggesting that the 26Al/10Be surface production ratio exceeds the commonly used value of 6.75, at least in the Arctic. A higher 26Al/10Be production ratio has implications for multinuclide cosmogenic isotope studies because it results in greater modeled burial durations and erosion rates.
A Nano‐in‐Nano Vector: Merging the Best of Polymeric Nanoparticles and Drug Nanocrystals
Authors: Liu Dongfei , Bernuz Cristina Rodríguez , Fan Jin , Li Wei , Correia Alexandra , Hirvonen Jouni , Santos Hélder A.
Published: January 2017

An advanced approach that can prepare narrowly size distributed nanomaterials with ultrahigh mass fraction of therapeutics, superior colloidal stability, minimal off‐target effects, as well as precisely controlled drug‐release profiles, is strongly desirable. Here, an optimal nano‐in‐nano vector, consisting of a drug (sorafenib, SFN, or itraconazole, ICZ) nanocrystal core and a polymer (folic acid conjugated spermine‐functionalized acetalated dextran, ADS‐FA) shell on a 1:1 ratio (HSFN@ADS‐FA or ICZ@ADS‐FA) is successfully fabricated. With the help of computational fluid dynamics, the concentration and velocity field are computed in the microfluidic domain, as well as the mixing time between the solvent and nonsolvent for nanovector precursors. The favorable features of both polymer nanoparticles and drug nanocrystals are inherited by the obtained nano‐in‐nano vector, showing ultrahigh drug‐loading degree, biodegradability, pH‐responsive fast dissolution, high stability in serum, and ease of surface functionalization. Furthermore, the half‐maximal inhibitory concentration value of the nano‐in‐nano HSFN@ADS‐FA is ≈54 times lower than the conventional nanovector (LSFN@ADS‐FA) with a low drug‐loading degree. Overall, this nano‐in‐nano vector merges the best of polymeric nanoparticles and drug nanocrystals.
One‐pot synthesis of silver‐modified sulfur‐tolerant anode for SOFCs with an expanded operation temperature window
Authors: Qu Jifa , Wang Wei , Yang Tao , Chen Yubo , Shao Zongping
Published: January 2017

To develop solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) capable of operating on sulfur‐containing practical fuels at intermediate temperatures, further improvement of the sulfur tolerance of a Ni + BaZr0.4Ce0.4Y0.2O3‐δ (BZCY) anode is attempted through the addition of some metal modifiers (Fe, Co, and Ag) by a one‐pot synthesis approach. The effects of these modifiers on the electrical conductivity, morphology, sulfur tolerance, and electrochemical activity of the anode are systematically studied. As a result, the cell with Ag‐modified Ni + BZCY anode demonstrates highest power output when operated on 1000 ppm H2S‐H2 fuel. Furthermore, the Ag‐modified anode displays much better stability than Ni + BZCY with 1000 ppm H2S‐H2 fuel at 600°C. These results suggest that the addition of Ag modifier into Ni + BZCY is a promising and efficient method for improving the sulfur tolerance of SOFCs. © 2017 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 63: 4287–4295, 2017
Copper oxide supported on magnetic nanoparticles (CuO@γ‐Fe2O3): An efficient and magnetically separable nanocatalyst for addition of amines to carbodiimides towards synthesis of substituted guanidines
Authors: Abbasi Sepideh , Saberi Dariush , Heydari Akbar
Published: January 2017

Copper oxide supported on magnetic nanoparticles was used as a green magnetic nanocatalyst for hydroamination of carbodiimides towards the synthesis of guanidines. Easy preparation and separation, low cost, non‐sensitivity to moisture and reusability of the catalyst along with diversity and high yield of products are significant features of this method.
A Unique Genetically Encoded FRET Pair in Mammalian Cells
Authors: Mitchell Amanda L. , Addy Partha Sarathi , Chin Melissa A. , Chatterjee Abhishek
Published: January 2017

Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between two suitable fluorophores is a powerful tool to monitor dynamic changes in protein structure in vitro and in vivo. The ability to genetically encode a FRET pair represents a convenient “labeling‐free” strategy to incorporate them into target protein(s). Currently, the only genetically encoded FRET pairs available for use in mammalian cells use fluorescent proteins. However, their large size can lead to unfavorable perturbations, particularly when two are used at the same time. Additionally, fluorescent proteins are largely restricted to a terminal attachment to the target, which might not be optimal. Here, we report the development of an alternative genetically encoded FRET pair in mammalian cells that circumvents these challenges by taking advantage of a small genetically encoded fluorescent unnatural amino acid as the donor and enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) as the acceptor. The small size of Anap relative to fluorescent proteins, and the ability to co‐translationally incorporate it into internal sites on the target protein, endows this novel FRET pair with improved versatility over its counterparts that rely upon two fluorescent proteins.
Eagle syndrome
Authors: Baba Akira , Okuyama Yumi , Ojiri Hiroya , Nakajima Tsuneya
Published: January 2017

Key Clinical Message

Although rare, Eagle syndrome should be always considered in the differential diagnosis in patients with chronic orofacial pain refractory to conventional treatments. Treatment is surgery and exeresis of the styloid process via a transoral or cervical approach depending on clinical and radiological features.
The role of guilt sensitivity in OCD symptom dimensions
Authors: Melli Gabriele , Carraresi Claudia , Poli Andrea , Marazziti Donatella , Pinto Antonio
Published: January 2017

Although some studies have found that guilt may precede, motivate, or be a consequence of obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD), the relationship between guilt and OCD has been under investigated. The studies that explored the role of trait guilt (guilt propensity) in OCD reported inconsistent findings and failed to support its predictive role. Since it has been suggested that OCD patients perceive guilt in a more threatening manner, it might also be relevant to test to what extent they negatively evaluate the experience of guilt (i.e., guilt sensitivity; GS). Study 1 investigated the psychometric properties of a new 10‐item Italian measure developed to assess GS—named Guilt Sensitivity Questionnaire—in a nonclinical sample (N = 473). Results from exploratory factor analyses supported the unidimensionality of the scale. It also showed excellent internal consistency and good discriminant validity. Study 2 investigated the role of GS in OCD symptoms, in particular with regard to responsibility for harm obsessions and checking compulsions, using a heterogeneous OCD sample (N = 61) and a control group of patients with anxiety disorders (N = 47). GS was the unique significant predictor of checking related OCD symptoms independent of negative mood states and obsessive beliefs. Guilt Sensitivity Questionnaire scores of patients with responsibility for harm concerns were significantly higher than those of patients with other kinds of obsessive concerns and with anxiety disorders. Findings supported the hypothesis that GS plays a relevant role in OCD symptoms when checking rituals are primarily involved. Implications for current cognitive behavioral models are discussed.

Key practitioner message:

Guilt sensitivity may play a role in checking‐related OCD symptoms.

We developed a psychometrically sound unidimensional 10‐item scale to assess guilt sensitivity.

Guilt sensitivity was a unique predictor of checking‐related OCD symptoms.

Targeting beliefs about the intolerability/dangerousness of experiencing guilt may be useful.

Acceptance‐based approaches may be helpful as they promote the acceptance of guilt.
Invasive termites in a changing climate: A global perspective
Authors: Buczkowski Grzegorz , Bertelsmeier Cleo
Published: January 2017

Termites are ubiquitous insects in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions and play an important role in ecosystems. Several termite species are also significant economic pests, mainly in urban areas where they attack human‐made structures, but also in natural forest habitats. Worldwide, approximately 28 termite species are considered invasive and have spread beyond their native ranges, often with significant economic consequences. We used predictive climate modeling to provide the first global risk assessment for 13 of the world's most invasive termites. We modeled the future distribution of 13 of the most serious invasive termite species, using two different Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs), RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5, and two projection years (2050 and 2070). Our results show that all but one termite species are expected to significantly increase in their global distribution, irrespective of the climatic scenario and year. The range shifts by species (shift vectors) revealed a complex pattern of distributional changes across latitudes rather than simple poleward expansion. Mapping of potential invasion hotspots in 2050 under the RCP 4.5 scenario revealed that the most suitable areas are located in the tropics. Substantial parts of all continents had suitable environmental conditions for more than four species simultaneously. Mapping of changes in the number of species revealed that areas that lose many species (e.g., parts of South America) are those that were previously very species‐rich, contrary to regions such as Europe that were overall not among the most important invasion hotspots, but that showed a great increase in the number of potential invaders. The substantial economic and ecological damage caused by invasive termites is likely to increase in response to climate change, increased urbanization, and accelerating economic globalization, acting singly or interactively.
Natural history, population dynamics, and habitat use of humpback whales over 30 years on an Alaska feeding ground
Authors: Gabriele Christine M. , Neilson Janet L. , Straley Janice M. , Baker C. Scott , Cedarleaf Jennifer A. , Saracco James F.
Published: January 2017

The rigorous program of monitoring humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), implemented by Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in 1985, augmented by additional data collected in southeastern Alaska since 1968, constitutes one of the longest studies of living whales in the world. This monitoring program, now a National Park Service (NPS) Inventory and Monitoring Program Vital Sign, employed consistent methods for summer surveys from 1985 to 2014 to document the number of whales and gather longitudinal records on individuals in Glacier Bay and Icy Strait. Survey effort averaged 355.4 h/yr (SD = 45.8), resulting in 9485 encounters with 662 individual whales, including 276 calves. The population increased at a rate of 5.1%/yr, from 41 individuals in 1985 to 239 individuals in 2013, primarily due to long‐term site fidelity and local recruitment. We documented sighting histories of >30 yr in southeastern Alaska, for 54 whales, including one 45‐yr sighting history. Almost half of the whales first identified as calves returned in subsequent years, at a mean age of 3.2 yr (SE = 0.28, range = 1–17 yr). Over 75% of females had their first calf by age 13. The maximum female reproductive span was 32 yr, and the maximum number of calves was 11. We estimated mean effective calving rate with a simple ratio and used logistic regression to estimate calving probability. Both methods resulted in similar maximal estimates that were somewhat lower than previously published values for this species: 0.324 (95% CL: 0.28–0.36) calves·female−1·yr−1 vs. calving probability of 0.319 (95% CL: 0.29–0.35). Minimal estimates, in which the first calf of each known‐aged female was omitted, were 0.302 (95% CL: 0.27–0.34) calves·mature female−1·yr−1 vs. calving probability of 0.305 (95% CL: 0.27–0.34) calves·mature female−1·yr−1. This monitoring program has guided Park management actions and documented this once critically endangered population's trajectory toward recovery, often through collaboration with other agencies and organizations, fostering the continued protection and understanding of this distinctive species. Our findings highlight the value of marine protected areas for migratory species with strong seasonal site fidelity and the role of long‐term monitoring in interpreting population‐level responses to changing marine ecosystems.
Provide guided pathways to give students a map to success
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: January 2017

SAN ANTONIO, Texas — Most students start college with a clear goal in mind. They expect to graduate, and if they are starting at a community college, most plan to go on to earn a bachelor's degree.
The effects of forest litter on snow energy budget in the Tianshan Mountains, China
Authors: Lu Heng , Liu Ming‐Zhe , Han Xi
Published: January 2017

Forest litter exerts an impact on the energy budget of snow surfaces, which lie beneath forest canopies. In this study, we measured shortwave and longwave radiation levels, as well as quantities of Asian spruce (Picea schrenkinan) forest litter, over 3 snow study plots that representing an open environment, 20% forest canopy openness (20% FCO), and 80% forest canopy openness (80% FCO). The fractional litter coverage (lc) was obtained through the binarization of digital photographs of forest litter. The effects of forest litter on snow surface albedo (α), snow surface temperature (Ts), upward shortwave and longwave radiation (K↑ and L↑), and sensible heat flux (H) were then analyzed. According to our results, the energy budget over snow surface influenced by forest litter principally due to forest litter forcing α decrease and Ts increase. The effects of forest litter on the energy budget increased with time and lc. We found that forest litter exerted the most significant impact on K↑ and L↑ at daytime during the latter stages of the snowmelt period. The influence of forest litter on H was more apparent on windy days. The presence of forest litter increased gains in shortwave radiation and losses in longwave radiation and decreased gains in H. Compared to the simulated energy (K↑ + L↑ + H) over a snow surface without litter, the calculated energy decreased by −13.4 W/m2 and increased by 9.0 W/m2, respectively, at the 20% FCO and 80% FCO sites during the latter stages of the snowmelt period. Overall, forest litter facilitated snow surface energy gains at the 80% FCO site and impeded them at the 20% FCO site during the latter stages of the snowmelt period.
A preoperative and intraoperative scoring system to predict nodal metastasis in endometrial cancer
Authors: Teixeira Andressa M.S. , Ribeiro Reitan , Schmeler Kathleen M. , Herzog Thomas J. , Nicolau Sergio M. , Marques Renato M.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To develop a scoring system that guides surgical decision‐making regarding the need to perform lymphadenectomy.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed of patients who underwent complete surgical staging of endometrial cancer between 2003 and 2014 at three centers in Brazil. Preoperative and intraoperative risk factors were used to develop a scoring system to predict lymph node metastasis.

Results

Among 329 patients included, 71 (21.6%) had positive lymph nodes and 259 (78.4%) had negative lymph nodes. The characteristics associated with nodal metastasis in univariate analysis included the level of cancer antigen 125 (P<0.001), preoperative histological grade (P<0.001), endometrial thickness (P=0.012), and pathologic features including tumor size (P<0.001), tumor extension (P<0.001), and lower uterine segment involvement (P<0.001). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, tumor grade, tumor extension, and lower uterine segment involvement remained significantly associated. The resulting scoring system showed good accuracy as demonstrated by an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.858 (95% confidence interval 0.804–0.913).

Conclusion

A highly accurate scoring system for the prediction of lymph node metastasis was developed on the basis of three preoperative and intraoperative risk factors. After validation, this model could greatly aid clinicians in the surgical management of endometrial cancer.
Transmission electron microscopy method providing high resolution in the cell section without radiation damage
Authors: Prachař Jarmil
Published: January 2017

Several new features of mitochondrial nucleoid and its surroundings in mammalian cells were described previously (Prachař, 2016). Very small details were observed using the improved transmission electron microscopy method, as described in the article. In the meantime, the method has again been improved to 2 Å resolutions in the cell section. The method described in detail in the present work is documented on the same records that were published in lower resolution in the work Prachař (2016), enabling comparison of the achieved resolution with the previous one. New records are also presented, showing extremely high resolution and thus implying the importance of the method. Potential use of this method in different fields is suggested.
Climate and topographic controls on snow cover dynamics in the Hindu Kush Himalaya
Authors: Gurung Deo Raj , Maharjan Sudan Bikash , Shrestha Anu Bhalu , Shrestha Mandira Singh , Bajracharya Sagar Ratna , Murthy M. S. R.
Published: January 2017

Snow governs interaction between atmospheric and land surface processes in high mountains, and is also source of fresh water. It is thus important to both climate scientists and local communities. However, our understanding of snow cover dynamics in terms of space and time is limited across the Hindu Kush Himalaya (HKH) region, which is known to be a climatically sensitive region. We used MODIS snow cover area (SCA) data (2003–2012), APHRODITE temperature data (2000–2007), and monthly long term in‐situ river discharge data of the Gandaki (1968–2010), Koshi (1977–2010) and Manas (1987–2004) basins to analyse variations among four basins. We gained insights into short term SCA and temperature, long term discharge trends, and regional variability thereby. Strong correlations were observed among SCA, temperature and discharge thereby highlighting the strong nexus between them. Temporal and spatial snow cover variability across the basins is strongly coupled with the variability of two weather systems: Western Disturbances (WD) and Indian Monsoon System (IMS), and strongly influenced by topography. Manifestation of these variability in terms if downstream discharge can have repercussion to water based sectors: hydropower and agriculture, as low flow seasons is seen affected. This study adds to our knowledge of snow fall and melt dynamics in the HKH region, and intra‐annual snow melt contributions to downstream discharges. The study is limited by short span of data and it is desirable to perform a similar study using data representing a much longer time span.
Remote Laser Welding of Steel and Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Albert Florian , Marben Philip , Graham Tom
Published: January 2017

Remote laser welded fillet and I‐seams at overlapped metal sheets are important joints for body‐in‐white production. Under ideal conditions such joints can be created in a welding‐friendly PA (flat) position with a zero‐gap between the parts. In Fig. 1, an example of a fillet welding process incl. a cross section of a typical weld seam at an aluminum door is shown.
North American Population‐Based Validation of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Practice Guideline Recommendation of Pelvic Lymphadenectomy in Contemporary Prostate Cancer
Authors: Leyh‐Bannurah Sami‐Ramzi , Budäus Lars , Pompe Raisa , Zaffuto Emanuele , Briganti Alberto , Abdollah Firas , Montorsi Francesco , Schiffmann Jonas , Menon Mani , Shariat Shahrokh F. , Fisch Margit , Chun Felix , Huland Hartwig , Graefen Markus , Karakiewicz Pierre I.
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND. National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines recommend a pelvic lymph node dissection (PLND) in prostate cancer (PCa) patients treated with radical prostatectomy (RP) if a nomogram predicted risk of lymph node invasion (LNI) is ≥2%. We examined this and other thresholds, including nomogram validation.

METHODS. We examined records of 26,713 patients treated with RP and PLND between 2010 and 2013, within the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database. Nomogram thresholds of 2–5% were tested and external validation was performed.

RESULTS. LNI was recorded in 4.7% of patients. Nomogram accuracy was 80.4% and maintained minimum accuracy of 75.6% in subgroup analyses, according to age, race, and nodal yield >10. With the NCCN recommended 2% nomogram threshold, PLND could be avoided in 22.3% of patients at the expense of missing 3.0% of individuals with LNI. Alternative thresholds of 3%, 4%, and 5% yielded respective PLND avoidance rates of 60.4%, 71.0%, and 79.8% at the expense of missing 17.8%, 27.2%, and 36.6% of patients with LNI. NCCN cut‐off recommendation was best satisfied with a threshold of <2.6%, at which PLND could be avoided in 13,234 patients (49.5%) versus missing 141 patients with LNI (11.2%).

CONCLUSION. NCCN LNI nomogram remains accurate in contemporary patients. However, the 2% threshold appears to be too strict, since only 22.3% of PLNDs can be avoided, instead of the stipulated 47.7%. The optimal 2.6% threshold allows a higher rate of PLND avoidance (49.5%), at the cost of 11.2% missed instances of LNI, as recommended by NCCN guidelines.

PATIENT SUMMARY. External validation in contemporary SEER prostate cancer patients showed that the NCCN nomogram remains accurate for predicting lymph node invasion and seems to be optimal at an alternative 2.6% threshold, with best ratio of avoided pelvic lymph node dissections (49.5%) and missed LNIs (11.2%), as recommended by NCCN guideline. Prostate 77:542–548, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Prognostic Role of Preoperative Serum Lipid Levels in Patients Undergoing Radical Prostatectomy for Clinically Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Wettstein Marian S. , Saba Karim , Umbehr Martin H. , Murtola Teemu J. , Fankhauser Christian D. , Adank Jean‐Pascal , Hofmann Marc , Sulser Tullio , Hermanns Thomas , Moch Holger , Wild Peter , Poyet Cédric
Published: January 2017

BACKGROUND.The prognostic role of preoperative serum lipid levels in patients undergoing radical prostatectomy (RP) for clinically localized prostate cancer (PCa) is unclear. The aim of the present study was to investigate preoperative serum lipid levels in patients with clinically localized PCa undergoing RP and their association with clinicopathological features and oncological outcome.

METHODS.Preoperative lipid levels (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides) and statin use from consecutive patients with clinically localized PCa undergoing RP in a tertiary referral center between 2008 and 2015 were recorded and patients were followed prospectively. Logistic regression analysis was used to test the association between lipid levels and clinicopathological parameters. Lipid values were analyzed both as continuous and dichotomized variables. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to identify predictors for recurrence‐free survival (RFS). Recurrence was defined as rising and verified PSA levels >0.1 ng/ml.

RESULTS.Our cohort consisted of 371 men with a median age of 63 years (range 41–78 years) and a median preoperative PSA value of 6.79 ng/ml (0.43–81.4 ng/ml). Median follow‐up was 28 months (1–64). No association was found between lipid levels and adverse pathological characteristics such as ≥pT3, Gleason score ≥8, positive nodal status and positive surgical margins. Recurrence occurred in 49 patients (15.4%) at a median time of 18 months (2–51 month). Compared to low LDL cholesterol, high LDL cholesterol was associated with longer RFS in univariable analysis (continuous: Hazard Ratio (HR): 0.67, 95%‐Confidence Interval (CI): 0.47–0.96,P = 0.03; 3 mM cut‐point: HR: 0.44, 95%‐CI: 0.24–0.79,P = 0.006). Neither levels of other lipids, nor statin use were associated with RFS. Preoperative LDL cholesterol remained an independent predictor for PCa recurrence in a multivariable model adjusted for age, preoperative PSA, statin use, tumor stage, Gleason score, nodal status and surgical margin status (continuous: HR: 0.66, 95%‐CI: 0.44–0.99,P = 0.04; 3 mM cut‐point: HR: 0.41, 95%‐CI: 0.21–0.78,P = 0.007).

CONCLUSIONS.This is the first prospective study showing the potential adverse and independent prognostic role of low preoperative LDL cholesterol levels in patients with localized PCa undergoing RP.Prostate 77:549–556, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the use of Fe(dpm)3 as precursor for the thermal‐CVD growth of hematite nanostructures
Authors: Gasparotto Alberto , Carraro Giorgio , Maccato Chiara , Barreca Davide
Published: January 2017

The iron(III) β‐diketonate Fe(dpm)3 (dpm = 2,2,6,6‐tetramethyl‐3,5‐heptanedionate) is investigated as precursor for the thermally‐assisted chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of hematite (α‐Fe2O3) nanostructures. To this aim, the compound gas‐phase reactivity is first elucidated by in‐situ infrared spectroscopy both under N2 and N2 + O2 atmospheres. Subsequently, Fe(dpm)3 is tested in CVD experiments on various substrates, as a function of the growth temperature, to evaluate the precursor applicability in the preparation of diversified hematite‐based materials, potentially addressing various technological end‐uses. In this study, relevant results concerning the gas‐phase behavior of Fe(dpm)3 and the compositional, structural, morphological, and optical properties of the resulting α‐Fe2O3 deposits are presented and critically discussed.
Investigation of the quasi‐simultaneous arrival (QSA) effect on a CAMECA IMS 7f‐GEO
Authors: Jones Clive , Fike David A. , Peres Paula
Published: January 2017

Rationale

IMS 7f‐GEO isotope ratio applications increasingly involve analyses (e.g., S– or O– isotopes, coupled with primary ion currents <30 pA) for which quasi‐simultaneous arrival (QSA) could compromise precision and accuracy of data. QSA and associated correction have been widely investigated for the CAMECA NanoSIMS instruments, but not for the IMS series.

Methods

Sulfur and oxygen isotopic ratio experiments were performed using an electron multiplier (EM) detector, employing Cs+ primary ion currents of 1, 2, 5 and 11.5 pA (nominal) and a variety of secondary ion transmissions to vary QSA probability. An experiment to distinguish between QSA undercounting and purported aperture‐related mass fractionation was performed using an EM for 16O– and 18O– plus an additional 16O– measurement using a Faraday cup (FC) detector. An experiment to investigate the accuracy of the QSA correction was performed by comparing S isotopic ratios obtained using an EM with those obtained on the same sample using dual FCs.

Results

The QSA effect was observed on the IMS‐7f‐GEO, and QSA coefficients (β) of ~0.66 were determined, in agreement with reported NanoSIMS measurements, but different from the value (0.5) predicted using Poisson statistics. Aperture‐related fractionation was not sufficient to explain the difference but uncertainties in primary ion flux measurement could play a role. When QSA corrected, the isotope ratio data obtained using the EM agreed with the dual FC data, within statistical error.

Conclusions

QSA undercounting could compromise isotope ratio analyses requiring ~1 × 105 counts per second for the major isotope and primary currents <20 pA. The error could be >8‰ for a 1 pA primary current. However, correction can be accurately applied. For instrumental mass fractionation (IMF)‐corrected data, the magnitude of the error resulting from not correcting for QSA is dependent on the difference in secondary ion count rate between the unknown and standard analyses. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A similarity‐based indirect trust model with anti‐spoofing capability
Authors: Tan Shuaishuai , Liu Yanming , Li Xiaoping , Dong Qingkuan
Published: January 2017

Trust management has become an emerging security paradigm in various areas such as ad hoc networks and cloud computing. One core element of trust management is the indirect trust model that evaluates the trustworthiness of a target based on others' recommendations. The research on indirect trust is still at an early stage, and some problems are not addressed yet. Because of the subjectivity of trust, entities would have different views on a same target. Consequently, after receiving recommendations, the evaluating entity should first measure their credibility. Existing methods often distort recommendations. We propose a more reasonable method based on the similarity between recommenders and evaluating entities. Furthermore, considering the characteristics of one‐hop and multi‐hop recommendations, the similarity calculation methods for them were developed individually. Another problem is the spoofed recommendations aiming at tarnishing someone or harboring conspirators. We design a simple but efficient algorithm to detect and remove them. The proposed methods and algorithms constitute the integrated indirect trust model. This model is not bound to any specific domain, and thus it can be widely applied. Simulation results show that the model is effective in obtaining an objective indirect trust value with the existence of personalized and dishonest recommenders. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.