bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Business-Science-Education: a Collaboration for Competitive and Sustainable Growth of the Wine Industry
Authors: Angelova M , Georgiev P , Dimitrova G , Pastarmadzhieva D
Published: October 2019

Optimization of the collaboration “business-science-education” is a prerequisite for the increase of the competitiveness of the enterprises. The article introduces a scientific solution of a practical problem through the creation of a model for informal education of specialists in the wine industry. The presented models are a part of the Virtual Educational Space (VES) as a smart space, context-dependent, based on a script and a controlled infrastructure. The results of the approbation of the model prove its significance for the practical processes and the increase of the competency of the specialists in connection to the implementation of innovation. Particularly to the wine industry, the suggested model for informal education represents a specific innovation, which approbates the known “good practices” in the strategy “Lifelong Learning”.
Critical Thinking About Urban Studies Linked with Thermodynamic Terms
Authors: Bostanci Seda H.
Published: October 2019

The interaction of urban science with psychology, biology, ecology, and technology creates a rich diversity. Thermodynamics and information theory are among the methods of analysis used to understand urban systems. These methods have a variety of options, and their decision-making processes are complex. Definitions related to the concept of city vary depending on the approach of social science disciplines such as urban science, sociology, geography, economy and public administration. Geographic Information System (GIS) enables the creation of interactive maps of the urban system’s transformation processes. Thus, city maps have gained qualifications for the examination of the possible changes and future scenarios. The relationship between city and thermodynamics has been developed with implementations such as energy, sustainability, system approach, spatial analysis, aesthetic evaluation methodologies, urban growth, and urban models. The thermodynamic interpretation of implementations provides concrete data such as heat map of the cities, and energy potential. The interpretation of entropy at the intersection of thermodynamics and information theory gives different perspectives to the concepts such as coding, redefining aesthetics and urban growth. The studies which relates urban issues and entropy concept are very different in approach and content from each other. This situation has also created a ground for meaning shifts. The aim of this study is to critically discuss the methods, concepts, and theories of urban studies related to the thermodynamic terms. As a method, the studies on the approaches of the concepts of thermodynamics in urban planning and urban design will be evaluated with a literature review.
Development of QFD methodology
Authors: Klochkov Y , Gazizulina A , Ostapenko M
Published: October 2019

The production of elongated shaped charges is particularly dangerous (or in the language of ISO 9001 “special”) and difficult from the point of view of quality control, so it is necessary to pay special attention to the dynamics of customer requirements, the level of development of competitors in order to remain a competitive organization. The proposed work addresses the issues of determining the ways of product development based on the analysis of the dynamics of consumer requirements and the level of competition, a mechanism is shown to identify bottlenecks of products based on the results of the organization’s resource audits.
A conceptual framework of cost of safety model in infrastructure project based on work breakdown structure (wbs) to improve safety policy in indonesia
Authors: Fitriani R , Latief Y
Published: October 2019

The high accidents rate in infrastructure projects in Indonesia in the last 1 (one) year due to lack implementation of the Occupational Health and Safety Management System in its entire project. One of the key indicators that influence it is the safety cost allocation. Currently, there is no structured guidelines to prepare cost of safety that is in accordance with the conditions of infrastructure projects in Indonesia. The purpose of this study is to address this gap by conceptualizing cost of construction safety as a more structured model for construction safety improvement. A conceptual framework which is not only integrate construction project management theory and regulation in Indonesia, but also consider project scope, project duration, project location, hazard analysis, and safety program, is proposed. This conceptual paper contributes to the emerging literature on safety cost and produce a systematic model of safety costs by involving appropriate risk control, and considering applicable regulations.
Proposed SDI equations to improve the effectiveness in evaluating crack damage on the road pavement
Authors: Setiadji B H
Published: October 2019

Road pavement has a life-cycle, where the age of the road pavement starts from design to the end of service life, so that maintenance works are one of the most important stages. To enable carrying out maintenance works, a process of assessment of road conditions, both from structural and functional, is required. At present, one of the evaluations of the functional condition of the road is using surface distress index/SDI. The SDI method used today has a simple procedure and is easy to use. However, in the term of accuracy in estimating the functional condition, it will be seen that the SDI parameter is far from satisfying. In this study, an effort to increase the effectiveness of SDI parameters especially for crack damage was carried out. The improvement of SDI parameter was conducted by developing a non-linear equation for each type of crack damage based on the deduct value curve of the PCI method, with a coefficient of determination R2 of at least 0.99. The proposed SDI equations have been calibrated and produced an error less than 6.2%. A comparison between the value of the proposed and the existing SDI also was presented and the results showed that the similarities between the two SDI values were only 19.86%. The rest of the existing SDI value was under-estimate proposed SDI, but there was also an existing SDI value over-estimated proposed SDI, especially in the road segment which was only found one type of crack damage with low/medium severity and low density.
Statistical characterisation of expanded metal mesh strand, to propose a correlation between properties of parent material and finish product, EMM
Authors: Solanki Jaydeepsingh , Ghosh Siddhartha
Published: October 2019

The use of steel plate shear walls (SPSW) for the design of structures under low seismic intensity results in very thin infill SPSW panels. Construction of such structures is infeasible, mainly due to the difficulty in connecting the infill to the boundary members. Thus, a designer is compelled to use a thicker infill section which in turn leads to heavier boundary elements. In order to overcome this constraint of design, a new type of infill panel using Expanded Metal Mesh (EMM) is studied as an alternative in place of a solid infill SPSW panel. Available codes on expanded metal mesh specify requirements of workmanship, quality control, etc. but neither recommend the strength of expanded metal mesh as a whole nor the strength of its components. Thus, it is necessary to perform extensive tests to extract the strength of expanded metal mesh as a whole in terms of the strength of its components and to come out with a correlation between the strength of the parent material (material from which EMM is manufactured) and that of the finished product (EMM). This paper a) presents the statistical characterization of EMM strands, b) recommends nominal design values for basic mechanical properties and c) proposes the correlation between the strength of the parent material and that of EMM strand.
Performance of GFRP bar anchored PBO-FRCM composite on one-way RC slabs under flexure
Authors: Grzymski F , Trapko T , Musiał M
Published: October 2019

The use of FRCM (Fabric Reinforced Cementitious Matrix) composites for reinforced concrete elements structural strengthening is gaining increased popularity. This causes the need to better understand the work of the material and to propose an effective way of using it. The mechanical behaviour of FRCM composites related to their ductility and tendency to debond or delaminate causes that its typical use, known from the older FRP (Fibre Reinforced Polymers) technology, is inefficient, that was the reason for the anchoring concept. This paper presents the results of the research based on three slab type elements, two of which were strengthened with one layer of PBO-FRCM composite with GFRP rebar anchorage of the composite mesh ends. The most important mechanical properties of the elements were measured and analysed.
Lateral displacement capacity of reinforced concrete elements damaged by corrosion
Authors: Imperatore S , Kioumarsi M
Published: October 2019

The aim of this work is to evaluate the influence of corrosion on the lateral displacement capacity and on the global ductility of reinforced concrete (RC) elements, using finite element (FE) analysis. The corrosive phenomenon is simulated accounting for its consequences on the reinforcing bars (variation of the steel geometry and mechanical properties), on the concrete (cracking) and at the interface (variation of the bond-slip behaviour). The parametric analysis, using numerical models, highlights how corrosion significantly changes the structural performance of the element in terms of deformability.
Evaluation of performance of foam produced with different methodologies for use in foam concrete production
Authors: Sahu S S , Gandhi I S R
Published: October 2019

For the production of foam concrete which finds applications in many areas, generally as a function of its relatively lightweight, the use of stable and quality foam is the key requirement. However, the literature available on the influence of characteristics of foaming agent and foam on the properties of foam concrete are rather limited. Hence a more systematic research is needed in this direction. The present work focuses on the relative performance evaluation of foam (initial foam density, foam stability, viscosity of surfactant solution and bubble size) using a typical synthetic surfactant and additive using two different foam production methodologies namely stirrer and foam generator. Comparative studies on foam production methods indicated that foam produced based on compressed air method (foam generator) is of better quality with lesser liquid fraction and drainage compared to that of foam produced with stirrer. Also studies have proved that there is a strong relationship between viscosity of surfactant solution, initial foam density, foam stability and bubble microstructure.
New texture with black grey color of fired clay wall tiles produced from rice husk ash, brown glass cullet, and local plastic clay
Authors: Ubolrat W , Duangkamol P
Published: October 2019

Developing fired clay wall tiles by valorising waste materials and local plastic clay was objective of this study. Rice husk and glass cullet are waste materials which had been selected. They were mixed with local plastic clay of Angthong province in Thailand. All materials used were characterized their composition by X-ray Fluorescence technique. Specimens had been prepared by dry pressing and then fired at 950°C and 1050°C. Physical properties, bending strength and water absorption, were tested and compared with Thai Industrial Standard (TIS 2508-2555). In addition, X-ray Diffraction technique and Scanning Electron Microscope were used to analyse microstructure of selected specimens. The results of this experiment shows that utilizing of 60-70% brown glass cullet, 10-30% rice husk ash fired at 950° C is feasible to produce wall tiles for commercial. It provides high bending strength and low water absorption and can pass the TIS 2508-2555. Furthermore, it provides new texture with black grey colour of wall tiles.
Milling of Precision Gear-shaped Parts
Authors: Wu Yanqing , Chen Jinghua
Published: October 2019

Precision gear-shaped part is an important part of a new type reducer. Due to its high overall hardness, precise design requirements, and semi-closed processing area, the precision machining technology based on UG is studied by using UG software in view of this processing characteristics of precision gear-shaped parts, including high resistance in X and Y direction, difficulty in chip removal, easy damage of cutter, and difficulty in workpiece quality. It solves the difficulties in cutting tool damage and precision control in precision gear parts machining, and provides reference value for similar parts machining.
Detecting device and technology of pavement texture depth based on high precision 3D laser scanning technology
Authors: Liang Jia , Gu Xingyu , Deng Hanyu , Ni Fujian
Published: October 2019

The pavement means texture depth (MTD) is part of the most significant indexes to the characteristics of the pavement macrostructure. Traditional measuring MTD methods are easily impacted by the human factors with inefficiency and low-accuracy. In order to realize the automatic detection of the MTD, a high precision asphalt pavement MTD detection system is built based on three-dimensional line laser scanning, and a MTD calculation method based on the line laser three-dimensional (3-D) data is proposed. Firstly, the 3-D elevation data are extracted from the obtained linear structure light images. Secondly, a denoising algorithm based on two-way standard deviation filter is presented for the 3-D elevation data. Finally, a MTD calculation method based on the line laser 3-D elevation data is designed. The MTD of five asphalt specimens with different roughness was measured by the calculation method designed in this study and sand patch measurements, respectively, and the results were comparable. The research demonstrates that the error between the calculation result of this algorithm and that of sand patch measurements is not more than 5%, which further proves the feasibility of this algorithm.
The dilemma and situation of detention pond in terms of extreme climate - a case study of Baoyeli detention pond
Authors: Hsueh Min-chia , Hsueh Yao-shun
Published: October 2019

Constructing detention ponds to prevent flood has become a trend in recent years, but the utility of detention pond is yet to be confirmed. Therefore, in this study, we investigate detention pond’s function in terms of flood solving by analyzing the rainfall data, and comprehending the dilemma of detention pond in technology, also, we interview the user of detention pond to know the ordeal of detention pond in politic. We discover that detention pond is very effective in making up for the weaknesses in the drainage system, however, detention pond isn’t very effective in improving the overall flood control capacity of the drainage system. Furthermore, government needs to outreach policies to solve misunderstanding of public on infrastructures.
Prediction of the impact of friction’s coefficient in cylindrical deep drawing for AA2090 Al-Li alloy using FEM and Taguchi approach
Authors: Bouchaâla K , Ghanameh M F , Faqir M , Mada M , Essadiqi E
Published: October 2019

To produce different cups from sheet metal, deep drawing is a vital process demanded by different industries such as automobile, aeronautics and so on. The comprehension of the process’s mechanics led to the correct determination of the factors which affect the deep drawing results. Experimental tests and numerical simulations are two significant ways for analysing the deep drawing process. Experimental tests are beneficial in studying the process to control the defect of the final product. However, to gain time and substantially reduce costs the numerical modelling became a common method which could be investigate the deep drawing technique through all steps of deformation. The Coulomb friction in contact regions is one of the most influencing parameters during deep drawing. This research emphasizes the influence of friction coefficient on deep drawing in three different regions: between blank surface and punch, blank surface and die, and blank surface and blank holder. For this purpose, a 3D Finite Element Model of AA2090 Al-Li alloy was carried out to simulate the process using ABAQUS software with A combination of the statistical approach based on Taguchi Techniques in order to predict the impact of friction coefficient Thickness variation have been studied, and the thinning region have been analysing for a cylindrical deep drawing process the results obtained were used as imputes of Taguchi method and the most appropriate combination of the Coulomb friction in the three regions concerning AA2090 Al-Li alloy was found.
Modelling of a semi-active vehicle suspension implemented with magneto-rheological dampers
Authors: Genov Julian
Published: October 2019

This paper describes a procedure for a simulation design aimed to achieve improved performance of the vehicle suspension, using magneto-rheological (MR) semi-active dampers. It is used a spatial so-called “Full car”-model of the vehicle. The model of the kinematic excitations from the unevenness of the road pavement is described in detail. The function of the MR damper is represented by linear and non-linear analytical models. Based on them, is obtained and its inverse neural-network model needed for the suspension control purposes.
Adjustment parameters of an internal combustion engine working with methane
Authors: Dimitrov R , Bogdanov K , Wrobel R , Serrano L , Mihaylov V
Published: October 2019

The paper presents a study of the variation of ignition advance when the engine works with methane and a comparison with values when the engine runs on gasoline. It is known that methane has a lower burning velocity than gasoline, and therefore, to obtain a maximal efficiency from the working process (the maximum value of cylinder pressure pz
should be 7-15 degrees after TDC), ignition advance should be increased, as for different operating regimes this angle should be increased with different values. A gasoline engine has been studied and were measured and analysed the ignition advance at work with gasoline and methane, with optimal air-fuel ratio (α) for both fuels. Three-dimensional graphics of ignition advance variation across the rpm and load range were made. In conclusion, on the basis of the experiments, a table is produced, which presents the values of coefficients for change of base parameters of ignition advance for all engine operating modes, in dependence on rpm and load of the engine.
Reliability and availability assessment of a transport system using Dynamic Fault Tree and Monte Carlo simulation
Authors: Szkoda Maciej , Kaczor Grzegorz , Satora Magdalena
Published: October 2019

Ensuring a high level of reliability of the transport system is one of the most important issues related to the proper functioning of this system. It is concerned with the delivery of the transported goods on time and in accordance with recipient’s order specification. The means of transport used in the delivery process are exposed to many external factors that may affect the reliability and safety of supply. Therefore, modelling and assessing the reliability of these systems requires the use of appropriate calculation methods that take into account complex scenarios reflecting the conditions of actual operation and maintenance. The presented paper concerns the application of Dynamic Fault Tree (DFT) together with Monte Carlo simulation to assess the selected reliability and availability indicators for the given transport system. The assessment of reliability was done based on the typical probabilistic models for analysis of the time to failure and the time to repair assigned to the selected components. The proposed approach allows detecting the weakest components of the transport system and is the basis for the development of preventive maintenance tasks. The presented model of the transport system can be further developed and adapted to needs of the specific system.
Analysis of the load on the taxi system in a medium-sized city
Authors: Grozev D , Milchev M , Georgiev I
Published: October 2019

In this research, the carriage of taxi drivers is considered by means of the queue theory. The study of the taxi system found out that the number of servers was too large. This results in low efficiency of taxi cars. The purpose of this study is to analyse the workload of the working servers in terms of their number within one day. An application was created in Matlab environment, which solves the problem and allows to evaluate the effect of this solution. The result of this research recognizes the need for reducing the number of working taxi vehicles by half or keeping their number but reducing their load factor variation between 11% and 19%.
Peculiarities of the fracture upon tensile deformation of hypoeutectic silumin samples after irradiation with an intensive pulse electron beam digital image correlation method
Authors: Ivanov Yu F , Ustinov A M , Klopotov A A , Zagulyaev D V , Petrikova E A , Abzaev Yu A. , Vlasov Yu A , Loskutov O M
Published: October 2019

The deformation behavior of non-irradiated and irradiated (with an intense pulsed electron beam) samples of hypoeutectic silumin ASTMB179-92A has been investigated. The distribution of localized plasticity foci in the near-surface layers of the samples has been studied. The dependence on the state of the material (non-irradiated and irradiated samples) and the distribution of deformation fields on the surface of silumin ASTMB179-92A under tension have been revealed. A correlation between deformation stages and the evolution pattern of spatial foci of the localized deformation has been established, and the staging of deformation curves has been revealed on the non-radiated samples. It has been shown that staging of the deformation process does not manifest itself on deformation curves of the irradiated samples. Deformation curves are characterized by a parabolic functional dependence σ=f(ε). It has been established that irradiation with an intense pulsed electron beam leads to hardening of samples, and fracture is observed at higher values than on non-radiated samples. A significant deformation localization in the region corresponding to the nucleation of the crack appears at stresses close to brittle failure of samples under tension.
Magnetocaloric effect in thin magnetic films γ-Fe2O3
Authors: Urinov X O , Jumanov X A , Mirzokulov Kh B , Xidirov A M , Bolbekov M A , Jumaboyev T A , Urinov J O
Published: October 2019

In this paper, we studied the thermal properties of thin films associated with significant difficulties caused by their small volume. Nevertheless, this problem provides undoubted interest, since calorimetric studies can provide useful information about the thermometric properties of films, phase transformations in them. The problem can be solved by using materials phase transition the metal-insulator in thermal contact with the sample as heat-sensitive elements of the films. The theory of the magnetocaloric effect in uniaxial and polycrystalline ferromagnets taking into account the rotation of magnetization is presented. The issues of creation of new refrigerating machines using the magnetocaloric effect are discussed. The magnetocaloric effect in magnetically ordered single crystals is studied taking into account the processes of magnetization rotation. An expression for the magnetocaloric effect in a ferromagnetic polycrystal is obtained, which well describes the experimental results.
The Matter of Time
Authors: Seikaly Sherene
Published: October 2019

A century after the victorious Allied powers distributed their spoils of victory in 1919, the world still lives with the geopolitical consequences of the mandates system established by the League of Nations. The Covenant article authorizing the new imperial dispensation came cloaked in the old civilizationist discourse, entrusting sovereignty over “peoples not yet able to stand by themselves under the strenuous conditions of the modern world” to the “advanced nations” of Belgium, England, France, Japan, and South Africa. In this series of “reflections” on the mandates, ten scholars of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the international order consider the consequences of the new geopolitical order birthed by World War I. How did the reshuffling of imperial power in the immediate postwar period configure long-term struggles over minority rights, decolonization, and the shape of nation-states when the colonial era finally came to a close? How did the alleged beneficiaries—more often the victims—of this “sacred trust” grasp their own fates in a world that simultaneously promised and denied them the possibility of self-determination? From Palestine, to Namibia, to Kurdistan, and beyond, the legacies of the mandatory moment remain pressing questions today.
Measurement of renal functional response using iohexol clearance—a study of different outpatient procedures
Authors: Lillås Bjørn Steinar , Tøndel Camilla , Gjerde Anna , Vikse Bjørn Egil
Published: October 2019

Background

Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) increases after a heavy protein load; an increase termed renal functional response (RFR). Decreased RFR could be a marker of early kidney damage, but published methods are cumbersome in the outpatient setting. The present study investigates the use of iohexol clearance to measure RFR in outpatients using both one- and two-sample methods.

Methods

Fourteen healthy volunteers with a mean ± SD age of 42 ± 12 years were included (six males and eight females). GFR was measured using plasma iohexol clearance with one- and two-sample methodologies. Four measurements in each individual were performed: one baseline test and three protein loading tests containing 80 g protein (commercially available protein supplementations from Myo Nutrition and Proteinfabrikken and 350 g chicken breast). RFR was calculated as percentage increase in GFR from the baseline test.

Results

Mean RFR was 11.4 ± 5.4% and 12.1 ± 6.4% using one- and two-sample methods, respectively. The three different protein loads resulted in similar mean RFR but there was considerable intra-individual variability. One- and two-sample methods for measurement of RFR showed similar results with near-identical means, but there was some intra-individual variation that was similar for different protein loads. The overall 95% limit of agreement between one- and two-sample methods for calculating RFR was −8.7 to 7.3.

Conclusions

RFR can be investigated using plasma iohexol clearance in an outpatient setting. Protocols using commercially available protein supplementation showed a mean RFR of about 12%. One- and two-sample methods for measuring RFR yield similar results.
Minimally invasive versus standard extracorporeal circulation system in minimally invasive aortic valve surgery: a propensity score-matched study
Authors: Berretta Paolo , Cefarelli Mariano , Montecchiani Luca , Alfonsi Jacopo , Vessella Walter , Zahedi Mohammad Hossein , Carozza Roberto , Munch Christopher , Di Eusanio Marco
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVES

The impact of minimally invasive extracorporeal circulation (MiECC) systems on the clinical outcomes of patients undergoing minimally invasive aortic valve replacement (MI-AVR) has still to be defined. This study compared in-hospital and 1 year outcomes of MI-AVR interventions using MiECC systems versus conventional extracorporeal circulation (c-ECC).

METHODS

Data from 288 consecutive patients undergoing primary isolated MI-AVR using MiECC (n = 102) or c-ECC (n = 186) were prospectively collected. Treatment selection bias was addressed by the use of propensity score matching (MiECC vs c-ECC). After propensity score matching, 2 groups of 93 patients each were created.

RESULTS

Compared with c-ECC, MiECC was associated with a higher rate of autologous priming (82.4% vs 0%; P < 0.001) and a greater nadir haemoglobin (9.3 vs 8.7 g/dl; P = 0.021) level and haematocrit (27.9% vs 26.4%; P = 0.023). Patients who had MiECC were more likely to receive ultra-fast-track management (60.8% vs 26.9%; P < 0.001) and less likely to receive blood transfusions (32.7% vs 44%; P = 0.04). The in-hospital mortality rate was 1.1% in the MiECC group and 0% in the c-ECC group (P = 0.5). Those in the MiECC group had reduced rates of bleeding requiring revision (0% vs 5.3%; P = 0.031) and postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF) (30.1% vs 44.1%; P = 0.034). The 1-year survival rate was 96.8% and 97.5% for MiECC and c-ECC patients, respectively (P = 0.4).

CONCLUSIONS

MiECC systems were a safe and effective tool in patients who had MI-AVR. Compared with c-ECC, MiECC promotes ultra-fast-track management and provides better clinical outcomes as regards bleeding, blood transfusions and postoperative AF. Thus, by reducing surgical injury and promoting faster recovery, MiECC may further validate MI-AVR interventions.
Left ventricular wall thickness assessed by cardiac computed tomography and cardiac resynchronization therapy outcomes
Authors: Galand Vincent , Ghoshhajra Brian , Szymonifka Jackie , Das Saumya , Orencole Mary , Barré Valentin , Martins Raphaël P , Leclercq Christophe , Hung Judy , Truong Quynh A , Singh Jagmeet P
Published: October 2019

Aims 

Up to 30% of selected heart failure patients do not benefit clinically from cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT). Left ventricular (LV) wall thickness (WT) analysed using computed tomography (CT) has rarely been evaluated in response to CRT and mitral regurgitation (MR) improvement. We examined the association of LVWT and the ability to reverse LV remodelling and MR improvement after CRT.

Methods and results 

Fifty-four patients scheduled for CRT underwent pre-procedural CT. Reduced LVWT was defined as WT <6 mm and quantified as a percentage of total LV area. Endpoints were 6-month clinical and echocardiographic response to CRT [New York Heart Association (NYHA) class, LV ejection fraction (LVEF), LV end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), and LV end-systolic volume (LVESV)], MR improvement and 2-year major adverse cardiac events (MACE). Patients were divided into three groups according to the percentage of LVWT <6 mm area: ≤20%, 20–50%, and ≥50%. At 6 months, 75%, 71%, and 42% of the patients experienced NYHA improvement in the ≤20%, 20–50%, and ≥50% group, respectively. Additionally, ≤20% group presented higher LVEF, LVEDV, and LVESV positive response rate (86%, 59%, and 83%, respectively). Both 20–50% and ≥50% groups exhibited a lower LVEF, LVEDV, and LVESV positive response rate (52% and 42%; 47% and 45%; and 53% and 45%, respectively). Additionally, ≥25% of LVWT <6 mm inclusive of at least one papillary muscle insertion was the only predictor of lack of MR improvement. Lastly, ≥50% group experienced significantly lower 2-year MACE survival free probability.

Conclusion 

WT evaluated using CT could help to stratify the response to CRT and predict MR improvement and outcomes.

Clinical trial registration

NCT01097733.
Toward a dynamic capability theory of economic growth
Authors: Sainsbury David
Published: October 2019

New theories of economic growth that are policy-relevant and connect with the histories of success and failure in economic development are urgently needed. This article compares the neoclassical (or market efficiency) school of thought with the production-capability school of thought which included Alexander Hamilton, Friedrich List, and Joseph Schumpeter. Many affirmative, industrial policy steps by governments to promote economic development have been historically recorded—including in the UK and the United States. Meanwhile the neoclassical school has ignored the role of government in helping to create competitive advantage. It has also chosen to ignore how firms are formed, how technologies are acquired, and how industries emerge. The dynamic capability theory of economic growth developed here assigns the central role in economic growth to firms but also an important role to governments. The rate at which a country’s economy grows depends critically on whether its firms can build the capabilities to generate and take advantage of “windows of opportunity” that exist for innovation and new markets, and whether over time they are able to enhance their capabilities to move into higher value-added activities.1
How to minimize air embolisms during thoracic endovascular aortic repair with Relay Pro?
Authors: Rylski Bartosz , Mayer Florian , Beyersdorf Friedhelm , Kondov Stoyan , Kolowca Maciej , Kreibich Maximilian , Czerny Martin
Published: October 2019

The aim of this study was to evaluate the volume of air released from Relay Pro NBS thoracic stent grafts using different de-airing methods. The gas volume was measured in an in vitro experimental setting. Stent grafts were de-aired via (i) standard saline flushing (40 ml), (ii) increased volume saline flushing (120 ml), (iii) carbon dioxide followed by 40 ml saline flushing and (iv) de-airing with 40 ml of saline in an ultrasound bath. The volume of gas released was measured separately while introducing the folded stent graft in the delivery device into the simulated aorta (step 1) and while deploying it outside the delivery device (step 2). Median air volumes released during steps 1 and 2 after flushing with 40 ml of saline were 0.09 (1st–3rd quartile 0.06–0.21) and 0.14 (0.11–0.15) ml, respectively. The volume of air released during step 2 was significantly less [0.09 (0.08–0.10) ml] after de-airing with 120 ml saline (P = 0.049). Neither de-airing with carbon dioxide nor in an ultrasonic bath led to a reduction in the volume of gas released during step 2. Air remaining after de-airing with a standard 40 ml of saline was released partially during stent graft introduction into the aorta and partially during final deployment. The most effective method of reducing air volume was de-airing with increased saline volume.
Sex-specific outcome after minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass for single-vessel disease
Authors: Friedrich Christine , Berndt Rouven , Haneya Assad , Rusch René , Petzina Rainer , Freitag-Wolf Sandra , Cremer Joachim , Hoffmann Grischa
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVES

Female gender is reported as an independent risk factor for a poor outcome after coronary artery bypass grafting. We analysed the influence of gender on surgical outcome in patients with single-vessel disease undergoing minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB).

METHODS

From January 1998 to December 2016, a total of 607 consecutive patients with single-vessel disease (31.9% women) underwent MIDCAB at our institution. Major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) were recorded during a median follow-up period of 8.0 years. Survival time was estimated for all patients and after applying propensity score matching (138 women vs 138 men). Multivariable Cox regression analysis identified risk factors predicting a long-term mortality rate.

RESULTS

In women, a longer surgical time (125 vs 113 min; P < 0.001) and a higher transfusion rate were recorded (13.0% vs 5.1%; P = 0.001) with similar rates of in-hospital deaths (1.0% vs 0.5%; P = 0.60) and MACCE (1.5% vs 0.7%; P = 0.39). Survival and MACCE-free survival during the follow-up period did not differ significantly between genders (P = 1.0, P = 0.36). Survival and MACCE-free survival rates after 5 years were 94% and 90% in women compared to 91% and 86% in men. Propensity score matching demonstrated improved long-term survival rates in women (P = 0.029). Insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, postoperative atrial fibrillation and prolonged intensive care unit stay were associated with long-term deaths for both genders, whereas obesity, former myocardial infarction and preoperative atrial fibrillation were significant risk factors in men.

CONCLUSIONS

Female patients showed no adverse outcomes after MIDCAB, although risk factors were gender-specific. Overall, MIDCAB demonstrated excellent short- and long-term results as a treatment for single-vessel disease in both genders.
Temporal Dynamics of Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus Titer in Mature Leaves from Citrus sinensis cv Valencia Are Associated with Vegetative Growth
Authors: Ibanez Freddy , Stelinski Lukasz L
Published: October 2019

Huanglongbing, a highly destructive disease of citrus species, is associated with a fastidious, gram-negative, phloem-limited bacteria (Candidatus Liberibacter spp.). In Florida, the causative agent of Huanglongbing (HLB) is C. Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) and it is transmitted by the insect vector, Asian citrus psyllid (Diaphorina citri Kuwayama). Previous investigations have revealed systemic infection of CLas with an erratic and uneven distribution of pathogen in tree phloem. However, previous investigations did not consider the potential impact of plant vegetative growth on presence/absence of CLas in planta. Our objectives were to determine: 1) the effect of vegetative growth of Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck cv Valencia on detection of CLas in mature leaves, and 2) the impact of CLas inoculation frequency on progression of CLas titer in citrus leaves through the first year of infection. Temporal dynamics of CLas detection were associated with vegetative flush growth. Surprisingly, there was no difference in CLas titer detected between plants exposed to infected vectors for a one-time 7 d inoculation access period, as compared with plants exposed to continuously breeding CLas-infected insects over the course of an entire year of plant infection. Our results suggest that the CLas bacterium is transported through phloem during annual movement of carbon compounds needed for vegetative plant growth, including transportation from roots to mature leaves. These results highlight the importance of vegetative growth on temporal dynamics of CLas in citrus, and suggest a critical role of the sink-source interaction on presence/absence of CLas in leaves.
Comparison of Trap Designs for Detection of Euwallacea nr. fornicatus and Other Scolytinae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) That Vector Fungal Pathogens of Avocado Trees in Florida
Authors: Kendra Paul E , Montgomery Wayne S , Narvaez Teresa I , Carrillo Daniel
Published: October 2019

Laurel wilt and Fusarium dieback are vascular diseases caused by fungal symbionts of invasive ambrosia beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae). Both diseases threaten avocado trees in Florida. Redbay ambrosia beetle, Xyleborus glabratus, is the primary vector of the laurel wilt pathogen, Raffaelea lauricola, but in recent years this symbiont has been transferred laterally to at least nine other species of ambrosia beetle, which now comprise a community of secondary vectors. Dieback disease, caused by Fusarium spp. fungi, is spread by shot hole borers in the Euwallacea fornicatus species complex. In this study, we conducted field tests in Florida avocado groves to compare efficacy of four trap designs for detection of Scolytinae. Treatments included an 8-funnel Lindgren trap, black 3-vane flight interception trap, green 3-vane interception trap, white sticky panel trap, and an unbaited sticky panel (control). In two tests targeting E. nr. fornicatus and X. glabratus, traps were baited with a two-component lure (α-copaene and quercivorol). In a test targeting other species, traps were baited with a low-release ethanol lure. For E. nr. fornicatus, sticky panels and black interception traps captured significantly more beetles than Lindgren traps; captures with green traps were intermediate. With ethanol-baited traps, 20 species of bark/ambrosia beetle were detected. Trap efficacy varied by species, but in general, sticky traps captured the highest number of beetles. Results indicate that sticky panel traps are more effective for monitoring ambrosia beetles than Lindgren funnel traps, the current standard, and may provide an economical alternative for pest detection in avocado groves.
The study of narrative acts with and for digital media
Authors: Szilas Nicolas , Estupiñán Sergio , Marano Monika , Richle Urs
Published: October 2019

In this article, we introduce the concept of narrative act which denotes a meta-action—an action on an action—that contributes to the narrative sequence. Narrative acts have been often described in narrative theories, in particular within structuralism, but never systematically studied. Examples of narrative acts include Ask, Order, or Forbid. Moreover, in the interactive digital narrative (IDN) field, such narrative acts may take a central role when they are used as building blocks in combinatorial generative systems. Therefore, this article proposes a unique effort to establish an extensive catalog of such narrative acts, with the view that this catalog is a work in progress by definition since it targets the IDN domain, which consists of a very limited corpus of works. It is, however, a necessary step toward a more theoretical approach of narrative acts in IDN. The catalog contains more than 200 narrative acts, for which a number of features have been collected. Among those is the source of the act, either a narrative or speech act theory or a theoretical work or an implemented system. A general three-level taxonomy is also proposed, associated with an interactive visualization tool available online, allowing researchers and creative authors to consult and expand the catalog.
The chemical composition of the Herbig Ae SB2 system AK Sco (HD 152404)
Authors: Castelli F , Hubrig S , Järvinen S P , Schöller M
Published: October 2019

We investigate the stellar atmospheres of the two components of the Herbig Ae SB2 system AK Sco to determine the elements present in the stars and their abundance. Equal stellar parameters Teff = 6500 K and log  g = 4.5 were used for both stars. We studied HARPSpol spectra (resolution 110 000) that were previously used to state the presence of a weak magnetic field in the secondary. A composite synthetic spectrum was compared in the whole observed region λλ 3900–6912 Å with the observed spectrum. The abundances were derived mostly from unblended profiles, in spite of their sparsity, owing to the complexity of the system and to the not negligible v sin  i of 18 km s−1 and 21 km s−1 adopted for the two components, respectively. The identified elements are those typical of stars with spectral type F 5 IV-V, except for Li i at 6707 Å and He i at 5875.61 Å, whose presence is related with the Herbig nature of the two stars. Furthermore, overabundances were determined in both stars for Y, Ba, and La. Zirconium is overabundant only in the primary, while sulfur is overabundant outside the adopted error limits only in the secondary. In contrast to previous results showing a high occurrence rate of λ Boo peculiarities or normal chemical composition among the Herbig Ae/Be stars, the abundance pattern of AK Sco is similar to that of only few other Herbig stars displaying weak Ap/Bp peculiarities. A few accretion diagnostic lines are discussed.
A profile in FIRE: resolving the radial distributions of satellite galaxies in the Local Group with simulations
Authors: Samuel Jenna , Wetzel Andrew , Tollerud Erik , Garrison-Kimmel Shea , Loebman Sarah , El-Badry Kareem , Hopkins Philip F , Boylan-Kolchin Michael , Faucher-Giguère Claude-André , Bullock James S , Benincasa Samantha , Bailin Jeremy
Published: October 2019

While many tensions between Local Group (LG) satellite galaxies and Λ cold dark matter cosmology have been alleviated through recent cosmological simulations, the spatial distribution of satellites remains an important test of physical models and physical versus numerical disruption in simulations. Using the FIRE-2 cosmological zoom-in baryonic simulations, we examine the radial distributions of satellites with $M_*\gt 10^5$ M⊙ around eight isolated Milky Way (MW) mass host galaxies and four hosts in LG-like pairs. We demonstrate that these simulations resolve the survival and physical destruction of satellites with $M_*\gtrsim 10^5$ M⊙. The simulations broadly agree with LG observations, spanning the radial profiles around the MW and M31. This agreement does not depend strongly on satellite mass, even at distances ≲100 kpc. Host-to-host variation dominates the scatter in satellite counts within 300 kpc of the hosts, while time variation dominates scatter within 50 kpc. More massive host galaxies within our sample have fewer satellites at small distances, likely because of enhanced tidal destruction of satellites via the baryonic discs of host galaxies. Furthermore, we quantify and provide fits to the tidal depletion of subhaloes in baryonic relative to dark matter-only simulations as a function of distance. Our simulated profiles imply observational incompleteness in the LG even at $M_*\gtrsim 10^5$ M⊙: we predict 2–10 such satellites to be discovered around the MW and possibly 6–9 around M31. To provide cosmological context, we compare our results with the radial profiles of satellites around MW analogues in the SAGA survey, finding that our simulations are broadly consistent with most SAGA systems.
Some thoughts on emission-line spectroscopy
Authors: Judge Philip G
Published: October 2019

The interpretation of emission lines formed in large astrophysical plasmas such as the solar atmosphere faces many challenges. Relatively simple line-ratio estimates of physical parameters, while appealing, are heavily laden with assumptions. In practical cases, some critical assumptions are neither defensible from first principles, nor testable by experiment. Free parameters and functional forms must be defined, whose numbers of degrees of freedom exceed the number of independent data points. These issues are illustrated in the particular case of using lines of Si iv and O iv formed in the solar transition region, observed for decades, most recently using the IRIS mission. The problems highlighted are in addition to well-known problems of mathematical ill-posedness.
An in vitro single-molecule assay for eukaryotic cap-dependent translation initiation kinetics
Authors: Wang Hongyun , Sun Lexi , Gaba Anthony , Qu Xiaohui
Published: October 2019

Eukaryotic mRNAs are predominantly translated via the cap-dependent pathway. Initiation is a rate-limiting step in cap-dependent translation and is the main target of translational control mechanisms. There is a lack of high-resolution techniques for characterizing the cap-dependent initiation kinetics. Here, we report an in vitro single-molecule assay that allows characterization of both initiation and peptide chain elongation kinetics for cap-dependent translation. Surprisingly, the histogram of the first-round initiation time is highly asymmetrical and spans a large time range that is several-fold greater than the average peptide synthesis time in translation reactions with a firefly luciferase-encoding mRNA. Both the histogram and single-molecule trajectories reveal an unexpected high-degree of asynchrony in translation activity between mRNA molecules. Furthermore, by inserting a small stem-loop (ΔG = −4.8 kcal/mol) in the middle of the mRNA 5′ untranslated region (UTR), our assay robustly detects small changes in budding yeast initiation kinetics, which could not be resolved by bulk luminescence kinetics. Lastly, we demonstrate the general applicability of this assay to distinct cell-free translation systems by using extracts prepared from budding yeast, wheat germ, and rabbit reticulocyte lysates. This assay should facilitate mechanistic studies of eukaryotic cap-dependent translation initiation and translational control.