bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methodology to evaluate reliability of performance of second-order automatic control system
Authors: Yang Jie , Tan Shiyong , Suo Shuangfu
Published: April 2017

Reliability evaluation plays a more and more important role in nuclear engineering, aviation industry, and so on. Due to the special integrity of a control system, traditional reliability methods, such as the reliability block diagram and fault tree analysis, are not proper to make a reasonable and accurate reliability evaluation on a control system. However, a systematic methodology to predict performance reliability of a control system is rarely reported. In this article, a methodology of performance reliability based on the performance requirement for an automatic control system, not just limited to the stability reliability or probabilistic robustness evaluation, is first proposed. A solution to evaluate control performance reliability is introduced with analytical approximation approach called first-order second-moment method. Also, a robust iterative algorithm is adopted to overcome the bifurcation and chaos problems encountered when searching the most probable point for highly nonlinear limit state function. An elaborate example based on a servo motor control system is presented to calculate performance reliability of the settling time of the control system with first-order second-moment method. Its numerical approximation is demonstrated to be accurate through Monte Carlo simulation.
Energy efficiency evaluation of a shuttle kiln based on field test
Authors: Zhou Yu , Qin Chaokui
Published: April 2017

With intensified energy restructure in China, energy efficiency of various industrial furnaces and kilns fired by natural gas draws attentions of more and more researchers. In this article, a field test was performed for shuttle kiln popular in ceramics and refractory manufacture industry. The thermal efficiency, main heat loss, and the energy-saving potential were evaluated, and the defects of the existing kilns and improvement measure were clarified. The results show that the overall efficiency was only 13%–15%, if measured in terms of the entire heating period. The energy loss of flue gas accounted up to 50%; the effectiveness of air preheater was as low as only 30%; large amount of cold air infiltration was observed at the venting exit at the bottom of the kiln. The burner controls and gas flow within furnace remain to be optimized.
Applying mixed methods in community-based participatory action research: a framework for engaging stakeholders with research as a means for promoting patient-centredness
Authors: Ivankova Nataliya V
Published: April 2017

An increased focus on patient-centred care in response to national efforts of improving the quality of health care calls for effective approaches to engaging patients and other stakeholders with research and its outcomes. Mixed methods research can provide a rigorous methodological foundation for community-based participatory action research (CBPAR) by synergistically combining qualitative stakeholder engagement methods with quantitative outcome-based oriented approaches for developing evidence-based, scientifically sound and patient-centred plans for improvement. CBPAR has long been applied in nursing research as a tool to engage patients and other stakeholders as co-researchers. When combined with mixed methods, CBPAR can assist stakeholders in developing better appreciation for a data-driven decision-making process by capitalising on the advantages of integrating quantitative and qualitative methods. This paper describes a mixed methods methodological framework for CBPAR as a means for promoting patient-centredness and enhancing stakeholder engagement with research outcomes. It follows the action research methodological steps and captures the synergetic combination of the two approaches by integrating mixed methods into each step in the CBPAR process. This framework is one illustration of using mixed methods to facilitate patient-centred research. It can provide a framework for developing stakeholder engagement plans and facilitating the process of translation of generated evidence into nursing practice.
Basic critical care echocardiography: How many studies equate to competence? A pilot study using high fidelity echocardiography simulation
Authors: Bowcock Emma M , Morris Idunn S , Mclean Anthony S , Orde Sam R
Published: April 2017

Background

Assessment of competence in basic critical care echocardiography is complex. Competence relies on not only imaging accuracy but also interpretation and appropriate management decisions. The experience to achieve these skills, real-time, is likely more than required for imaging accuracy alone. We aimed to assess the feasibility of using simulation to assess number of studies required to attain competence in basic critical care echocardiography.

Methods

This is a prospective pilot study recruiting trainees at various degrees of experience in basic critical care echocardiography using experts as reference standard. We used high fidelity simulation to assess speed and accuracy using total time taken, total position difference and total angle difference across the basic acoustic windows. Interpretation and clinical application skills were assessed using a clinical scenario. ‘Cut-off’ values for number of studies required for competence were estimated.

Results

Twenty-seven trainees and eight experts were included. The subcostal view was achieved quickest by trainees (median 23 s, IQR 19–37). Eighty-seven percent of trainees did not achieve accuracy across all views; 81% achieved accuracy with the parasternal long axis and the least accurate was the parasternal short axis (44% of trainees). Fewer studies were required to be considered competent with imaging acquisition compared with competence in correct interpretation and integration (15 vs. 40 vs. 50, respectively).

Discussion

The use of echocardiography simulation to determine competence in basic critical care echocardiography is feasible. Competence in image acquisition appears to be achieved with less experience than correct interpretation and correct management decisions. Further studies are required.
Direct oral anticoagulants and digestive bleeding: therapeutic management and preventive measures
Authors: Deutsch David , Boustière Christian , Ferrari Emile , Albaladejo Pierre , Morange Pierre-Emmanuel , Benamouzig Robert
Published: April 2017

The use of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) was an important step forward in the management of atrial fibrillation and venous thromboembolism (VTE). The DOACs, anti-IIa for dabigatran and anti-Xa for rivaroxaban, apixaban and edoxaban, all have a rapid onset of action and a short half life. There is no need for routine hemostasis testing for treatment monitoring of a DOAC. Compared with vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), DOACs may increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding (relative risk 1.25). Withholding the DOAC treatment, evaluating the time of the last intake and estimating the patient’s renal function are the first steps in the management of gastrointestinal bleeding. For patients without impaired renal function, achieving low coagulation takes around 24 h after the last intake of a DOAC. The use of DOAC antagonists will be helpful in controlling bleeding in the most severe and urgent situations. Idarucizumab is available for clinical use for dabigatran and andexanet is currently being reviewed by drug agencies for rivaroxaban, apixaban and edoxaban. It is important to assess the bleeding risk associated with the planned procedure, and the patient’s renal function before withholding DOAC therapy for a scheduled intervention. It is mandatory to strengthen the local hemostasis strategies in DOAC-treated patients undergoing a therapeutic endoscopic procedure. Resuming or not resuming anticoagulation with a DOAC after bleeding or a risky procedure depends on the thrombotic and bleeding risk as well as the procedure involved. This discussion should always involve the cardiologist and decisions should be taken by a pluridisciplinary team.
Wire Atrial Septostomy: A New Technique to Create a Large Defect in a Thickened Atrial Septum
Authors: Kitano Masataka , Tsukada Masanori , Fujino Mistuhiro
Published: April 2017

Both balloon atrial septostomy and static balloon dilation are often ineffective in creating a large atrial septal defect in patients with a thickened atrial septum. In such situations, blade atrial septostomy and atrial septal stenting are alternative treatments. We have devised and performed a new technique, called wire atrial septostomy, which uses a thin soft wire to create a large defect. The details of the procedure are presented.
Systems Thinking and Modelling for Stakeholder Management
Authors: Elias Arun Abraham
Published: April 2017

This article presents the application of the systems thinking and modelling methodology for analyzing multiple stakeholders with conflicting stakes. It illustrates this methodological framework using a New Zealand transport infrastructure case. By moving beyond the usual stakeholder analysis tools, comprising of matrices or lists of criteria or attributes, this study tries to plug the gap in the stakeholder literature pertaining to the need for a stakeholder analysis approach that can capture complex and dynamic issues in stakeholder management. The results of the experiments conducted, using a systems model developed in this study, highlight the need for holistic approaches instead of simple solutions, while dealing with complex problems involving multiple stakeholders.
Adaptation and Resilience in African American Mothers
Authors: Jackson Barbara , Kiehl Ermalynn M.
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine factors influencing adaptation and resiliency of inner-city low-income, African American mothers. The number of studies that examine the lived experience of African American mothers in low-income inner-city settings is limited. The factors explored in this study, which determine the family’s ability to adapt to their life situation, include vulnerability, adaptation, and resiliency. Survey data and narrative inquiry were used to determine maternal adaptation and resilience. Quantitative data were gathered using a demographic inventory, a Family Adaptation, Partnership, Growth, Affection, and Resolve; Family Adaptation Inventory; and Family Dynamics Questionnaire. Qualitative data were gathered as the mother described her life history and answered semistructured interview questions. The mothers, who participated in this study, were clear about the principles and morals in which they believed and spent much of their time teaching those principles to their children. They believed that these rules would protect their children and ensure that their children would make good decisions in the future and help them reach their goals. They feared that their living situation could prevent their children from reaching their full potential in life. Preventing current risk situations and protecting their children from future harm was an urgent concern. This study provides evidence for resiliency in inner-city low-income African American mothers.
Consumer Co-creation of Value in mHealth (Mobile Health) Service
Authors: Motamarri Saradhi
Published: April 2017

Co-creation of value (CCV) is an emerging research discipline. The extant literature primarily focused on tangible value in firm context, relegating value created in an individual’s personal space. CCV extends beyond tangible outcomes. While service-dominant logic (SDL) created more interest in co-creation, much of the literature remained at a conceptual level. Empirical studies centred on the individual CCV are scarce. This article argues that individuals co-create value in their own space and there is a need to recognize and enhance our knowledge about it. The article proposes a conceptual model for individuals’ CCV in mobile health (mHealth) service context, identifying knowledge, well-being and productivity as dimensions that define quality of life. The study yields insights on how individuals generate value through the use of technology. The study contributes new knowledge on factors that contribute to individuals’ CCV. For value research and theory, the article positions individuals at the centre over firms. The research extends value envelope beyond firms and tangible outcomes to encompass individuals and experiential value. For Information Systems (IS), the model expands study horizon to complex social settings that yield valuable insights on how socio-technical interactions alter individual’s CCV. The study may further motivate empirical work on individual’s CCV.
Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Joly Bérangère S. , Coppo Paul , Veyradier Agnès
Published: April 2017

Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a rare and life-threatening thrombotic microangiopathy characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, severe thrombocytopenia, and organ ischemia linked to disseminated microvascular platelet rich-thrombi. TTP is specifically related to a severe deficiency in ADAMTS13 (a disintegrin and metalloprotease with thrombospondin type 1 repeats, member 13), the specific von Willebrand factor-cleaving protease. ADAMTS13 deficiency is most frequently acquired via ADAMTS13 autoantibodies, but rarely, it is inherited via mutations of the ADAMTS13 gene. The first acute episode of TTP usually occurs during adulthood, with a predominant anti-ADAMTS13 autoimmune etiology. In rare cases, however, TTP begins as soon as childhood, with frequent inherited forms. TTP is ∼2-fold more frequent in women, and its outcome is characterized by a relapsing tendency. Rapid recognition of TTP is crucial to initiate appropriate treatment. The first-line therapy for acute TTP is based on daily therapeutic plasma exchange supplying deficient ADAMTS13, with or without steroids. Additional immune modulators targeting ADAMTS13 autoantibodies are mainly based on steroids and the humanized anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab. In refractory or unresponsive TTP, more intensive therapies including twice-daily plasma exchange; pulses of cyclophosphamide, vincristine, or cyclosporine A; or salvage splenectomy are considered. New drugs including N-acetylcysteine, bortezomib, recombinant ADAMTS13, and caplacizumab show promise in the management of TTP. Also, long-term follow-up of patients with TTP is crucial to identify the occurrence of other autoimmune diseases, to control relapses, and to evaluate psychophysical sequelae. Further development of both patients’ registries worldwide and innovative drugs is still needed to improve TTP management.
Hematopoietic transcription factor mutations: important players in inherited platelet defects
Authors: Songdej Natthapol , Rao A. Koneti
Published: April 2017

Transcription factors (TFs) are proteins that bind to specific DNA sequences and regulate expression of genes. The molecular and genetic mechanisms in most patients with inherited platelet defects are unknown. There is now increasing evidence that mutations in hematopoietic TFs are an important underlying cause for defects in platelet production, morphology, and function. The hematopoietic TFs implicated in patients with impaired platelet function and number include runt-related transcription factor 1, Fli-1 proto-oncogene, E-twenty-six (ETS) transcription factor (friend leukemia integration 1), GATA-binding protein 1, growth factor independent 1B transcriptional repressor, ETS variant 6, ecotropic viral integration site 1, and homeobox A11. These TFs act in a combinatorial manner to bind sequence-specific DNA within promoter regions to regulate lineage-specific gene expression, either as activators or repressors. TF mutations induce rippling downstream effects by simultaneously altering the expression of multiple genes. Mutations involving these TFs affect diverse aspects of megakaryocyte biology, and platelet production and function, culminating in thrombocytopenia and platelet dysfunction. Some are associated with predisposition to hematologic malignancies. These TF variants may occur more frequently in patients with inherited platelet defects than generally appreciated. This review focuses on alterations in hematopoietic TFs in the pathobiology of inherited platelet defects.
Invariant natural killer T cells ameliorate murine chronic GVHD by expanding donor regulatory T cells
Authors: Du Jing , Paz Katelyn , Thangavelu Govindarajan , Schneidawind Dominik , Baker Jeanette , Flynn Ryan , Duramad Omar , Feser Colby , Panoskaltsis-Mortari Angela , Negrin Robert S. , Blazar Bruce R.
Published: April 2017

Key Points

Low doses of donor iNKT infusion prevent and reverse murine cGVHD. iNKT efficacy in treating established cGVHD is dependent on donor Treg expansion.
Algebraic degree of a general group-velocity surface
Authors: Grechka Vladimir
Published: April 2017

Three algebraic surfaces — the slowness surface, the phase-velocity surface, and the group-velocity surface — play fundamental roles in the theory of seismic wave propagation in anisotropic elastic media. While the slowness (sometimes called phase-slowness) and phase-velocity surfaces are fairly simple and their main algebraic properties are well understood, the group-velocity surfaces are extremely complex; they are complex to the extent that even the algebraic degree, [Formula: see text], of a system of polynomials describing the general group-velocity surface is currently unknown, and only the upper bound of the degree [Formula: see text] is available. This paper establishes the exact degree [Formula: see text] of the general group-velocity surface along with two closely related to [Formula: see text] quantities: the maximum number, [Formula: see text], of body waves that may propagate along a ray direction in a homogeneous anisotropic elastic solid [Formula: see text] and the maximum number, [Formula: see text], of isolated, singularity-unrelated cusps of a group-velocity surface [Formula: see text].
A logging-curve separation scale overlay method for total-organic-carbon estimation in organic-rich shale reservoirs
Authors: Xu Jingling , Li Yangyang , Zhang Baoying , Xu Lei , Qin Yuxing
Published: April 2017

Quantitative estimation of total-organic-carbon (TOC) content using well logs is very important for shale-gas reservoir evaluation, especially when core data are limited. Even though many techniques have been developed to calculate TOC from well logs, they all have their limitations and accurate assessment of TOC in organic-rich tight shales is still challenging. We have used an improved log-overlay method for evaluating TOC content in organic-rich tight shale reservoirs by overlying the properly scaled gamma-ray, sonic transit time, and bulk density curves on top of the compensated neutron log (CNL) curve based on the same concept to the original [Formula: see text] technique. These logging curves are overlapped with the CNL in nonsource intervals, and they are separated in organic-rich shale reservoirs. The separation magnitude increases along with the increase in TOC content of the shale, and this relationship is transformed to calculate TOC. This method was tested and verified by doing a case study using well-log data from the Jiaoshiba tight shale-gas play in the Sichuan Basin. The results illustrated that the new TOC evaluation method is more practical and effective compared with existing TOC evaluation methods.
Prevalence of Complementary Medicine Use in Patients With Cancer: A Turkish Comprehensive Cancer Center Experience
Authors: Yalcin Suayib , Hurmuz Pervin , McQuinn Lacey , Naing Aung
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) has been popular among patients with cancer for several decades. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of CAM use and to identify the factors affecting CAM use in a large patient cohort seen at a comprehensive cancer center in Turkey.

Patients and Methods

An investigator-designed survey was completed by volunteer patients who visited the outpatient clinic in the medical oncology department. CAM use encompassed pharmacologic agents including vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal products or nonpharmacologic methods like prayer, meditation, hypnosis, massage, or acupuncture.

Results

Of 1,499 patients who answered the survey, 1,433 (96%) used nonpharmacologic CAM and 60 (4%) used pharmacologic CAM (pCAM). The most frequent types of CAM used were prayer (n = 1,433) followed by herbal products (n = 42). pCAM use was not significantly associated with age ( P = .63), sex ( P = .15), diagnosis ( P = .15), or income level ( P = .09). However, it was significantly associated with the level of education ( P = .0067) and employment status ( P < .001). Patients with higher education levels used more pCAM products ( P = .025). Among 60 pCAM users, six patients (10%) used pCAM for more than 2 years and 22 (36%) did not consult their physicians about their pCAM use. Only nine patients (15%) reported unpleasant adverse effects related to pCAM.

Conclusion

Although CAM use was high among our patients, prevalence of pCAM use was lower than expected. Patients with higher education levels tended to use more pCAM.
Treatment of Pediatric Obesity: An Umbrella Systematic Review
Authors: Rajjo Tamim , Mohammed Khaled , Alsawas Mouaz , Ahmed Ahmed T. , Farah Wigdan , Asi Noor , Almasri Jehad , Prokop Larry J. , Murad Mohammad Hassan
Published: April 2017

Objective:

Multiple interventions are available to reduce excess body weight in children. We appraised the quality of evidence supporting each intervention and assessed the effectiveness on different obesity-related outcomes.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic search for systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials evaluating pediatric obesity interventions applied for ≥6 months. We assessed the quality of evidence for each intervention using GRADE (Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach.

Results:

From 16 systematic reviews, we identified 133 eligible randomized controlled trials. Physical activity interventions reduced systolic blood pressure and fasting glucose (low to moderate quality of evidence). Dietary interventions with low-carbohydrate diets had a similar effect to low-fat diets in terms of body mass index (BMI) reduction (moderate quality of evidence). Educational interventions reduced waist circumference, BMI, and diastolic blood pressure (low quality of evidence). Pharmacological interventions reduced BMI (metformin, sibutramine, orlistat) and waist circumference (sibutramine, orlistat) and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (sibutramine) but also raised systolic and diastolic blood pressure (sibutramine). Surgical interventions (laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, Roux-en-Y gastric bypass, sleeve gastrectomy) resulted in the largest BMI reduction (moderate quality of evidence). Combined interventions consisting of dietary modification, physical activity, behavioral therapy, and education significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure, BMI, and triglycerides. Combined parent–child interventions and parent-only interventions had similar effects on BMI (low quality of evidence).

Conclusions:

Several childhood obesity interventions are effective in improving metabolic and anthropometric measures. A comprehensive multicomponent intervention, however, appears to have the best overall outcomes.
Radiotherapy, Especially at Young Age, Increases the Risk for De Novo Brain Tumors in Patients Treated for Pituitary/Sellar Lesions
Authors: Burman Pia , van Beek André P. , Biller Beverly M. K. , Camacho-Hübner Cecilia , Mattsson Anders F.
Published: April 2017

Context:

De novo brain tumors developing after treatment of pituitary/sellar lesions have been reported, but it is unknown whether this is linked to any of the treatment modalities.

Objective:

To study the occurrence of malignant brain tumors and meningiomas in a large cohort of patients treated for pituitary/sellar lesions, with special emphasis on the role of radiotherapy (RT).

Patients and Methods:

Patients (n = 8917) who were hypopituitary due to pituitary adenomas, craniopharyngiomas, and other sellar tumors followed in KIMS (Pfizer International Metabolic Database) from 1994 to 2012 were included. Treatment consisted of surgery and/or medical therapy in 4927 patients, RT alone, or with surgery in 3236 patients; data were missing in 754. Incidence rate ratios (RRs) were analyzed through Poisson regression methods with internal comparisons.

Results:

During 53,786 patient-years, 17 cases of malignant brain tumors (13 exposed to RT) and 27 meningiomas (22 exposed to RT) were reported. RR for RT vs no RT was 3.34 [95% confidence interval (CI), 1.06 to 10.6] for malignant brain tumors, and 4.06 (95% CI, 1.51 to 10.9) for meningiomas. The risk of developing a malignant brain tumor increased by 2.4-fold (P = 0.005) and meningioma by 1.6-fold with every 10 years of younger age at RT (P = 0.05). Incidence rates were similar in patients treated with conventional RT compared with stereotactic RT.

Conclusion:

RT of pituitary tumors is associated with increased risk of developing malignant brain tumors and meningiomas, especially when given at younger ages. In balancing risks and benefits of RT, our findings emphasize that special consideration should be given to the age of the patient.
‘The’ Problem for the-Predicativism
Authors: Jeshion Robin
Published: April 2017

Clarence Sloat, Ora Matushansky, and Delia Graff Fara advocate a Syntactic Rationale on behalf of predicativism, the view that names are predicates in all of their occurrences. Each argues that a set of surprising syntactic data compels us to recognize names as a special variety of count noun. This data set, they say, reveals that names’ interaction with the determiner system differs from that of common count nouns only with respect to the definite article ‘the’. They conclude that this special distribution of names is best explained by the-predicativism, the view that posits the existence of the null-determiner ‘the’ preceding bare singular names. This essay argues that they have incorrectly discerned the syntactic facts: their critical data point concerning the ungrammaticality of sentences like “The Katherine wants coffee” is mistaken. Such sentences’ grammaticality undermines the Syntactic Rationale and presents serious auxiliary problems for predicativism.
New Insights Into the Impact of Dehydration on Blood Flow and Metabolism During Exercise
Authors: Trangmar Steven J. , González-Alonso José
Published: April 2017

Exercise-induced dehydration can lead to impaired perfusion to multiple regional tissues and organs. We propose that the impact of dehydration on regional blood flow and metabolism is dependent on the extent of the cardiovascular demand imposed by exercise, with the greatest physiological strain seen when approaching cardiovascular and aerobic capacities.
Mobilizing Immune Cells With Exercise for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Simpson Richard J. , Bigley Austin B. , Agha Nadia , Hanley Patrick J. , Bollard Catherine M.
Published: April 2017

Hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) transplantation and adoptive transfer immunotherapy are effective in treating blood cancers and posttransplant infections, but low-circulating cell numbers in patients and donors are oftentimes a limiting factor. We postulate that a single exercise bout will increase the yield of patient- and donor-derived HSCs and cytotoxic lymphocytes to improve this form of treatment for cancer patients.
Skeletal Muscle Remodeling: Interconnections Between Stem Cells and Protein Turnover
Authors: Burd Nicholas A. , De Lisio Michael
Published: April 2017

Nutrition and exercise are important components of a healthy lifestyle to improve rates of hypertrophic and nonhypertrophic skeletal muscle remodeling. We provide evidence to support the hypothesis that muscle stem cells and protein turnover are collaborative, not separate, mechanisms supporting muscle remodeling by facilitating protein, nuclear, and cellular turnover in response to the ingestion of protein dense foods and exercise.
The Logical Burdens of Proof. Assertion and Hypothesis
Authors: Chiffi Daniele , Schang Fabien
Published: April 2017

The paper proposes two logical analyses of (the norms of) justification. In a first, realist-minded case, truth is logically independent from justification and leads to a pragmatic logic LP including two epistemic and pragmatic operators, namely, assertion and hypothesis. In a second, antirealist-minded case, truth is not logically independent from justification and results in two logical systems of information and justification: AR4 and AR4¢, respectively, provided with a question-answer semantics. The latter proposes many more epistemic agents, each corresponding to a wide variety of epistemic norms. After comparing the different norms of justification involved in these logical systems, two hexagons expressing Aristotelian relations of opposition will be gathered in order to clarify how (a fragment of) pragmatic formulas can be interpreted in a fuzzy-based question-answer semantics.
Notions of Maximality for Integral Lattice-Free Polyhedra: The Case of Dimension Three
Authors: Averkov Gennadiy , Krümpelmann Jan , Weltge Stefan
Published: April 2017

Lattice-free sets and their applications for cutting-plane methods in mixed-integer optimization have been studied in recent literature. The family of all integral lattice-free polyhedra that are not properly contained in another integral lattice-free polyhedron has been of particular interest. We call these polyhedra ℤd-maximal.

For fixed d, the family of ℤd-maximal integral lattice-free polyhedra is finite up to unimodular equivalence. In view of possible applications in cutting-plane theory, one would like to have a classification of this family. This is a challenging task already for small dimensions.

In contrast, the subfamily of all integral lattice-free polyhedra that are not properly contained in any other lattice-free set, which we call ℝd-maximal lattice-free polyhedra, allow a rather simple geometric characterization. Hence, the question was raised for which dimensions the notions of ℤd-maximality and ℝd-maximality are equivalent. This was known to be the case for dimensions one and two. On the other hand, for d ≥ 4 there exist integral lattice-free polyhedra that are ℤd-maximal but not ℝd-maximal. We consider the remaining case d = 3 and prove that for integral lattice-free polyhedra the notions of ℝ3-maximality and ℤ3-maximality are equivalent. This allows to complete the classification of all ℤ3-maximal integral lattice-free polyhedra.
A Method for the Immunohistochemical Identification and Localization of Osterix in Periosteum-Wrapped Constructs for Tissue Engineering of Bone
Authors: McClellan Phillip , Jacquet Robin , Yu Qing , Landis William J.
Published: April 2017

A novel immunohistochemistry (IHC) approach has been developed to label and localize osterix, a bone-specific transcription factor, within formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, tissue-engineered constructs uniquely containing synthetic polymers and human periosteal tissue. Generally, such specimens consisting in part of polymeric materials and mineral are particularly difficult for IHC identification of proteins. Samples here were fabricated from human periosteum, electrospun poly-l-lactic acid (PLLA) nanofibers, and polycaprolactone/poly-l-lactic acid (PCL/PLLA, 75/25) scaffolds and harvested following 10 weeks of implantation in athymic mice. Heat-induced and protease-induced epitope retrieval methods from selected existing protocols were examined to identify osterix. All such protease-induced techniques were unsuccessful. Heat-induced retrieval gave positive results for osterix immunohistochemical staining in sodium citrate/EDTA/Tween 20 with high heat (120C) and pressure (~30 psi) for 10 min, but the heat and pressure levels resulted in tissue damage and section delamination from slides that limited protocol effectiveness. Heat-induced epitope retrieval led to other osterix-positive staining results achieved with minimal impact on structural integrity of the tissue and polymers in sodium citrate/EDTA/Tween 20 buffer at 60C and normal pressure (14.5 psi) for 72 hr. The latter approach identified osterix-positive cells by IHC within periosteal tissue, layers of electrospun PLLA nanofibers, and underlying PCL/PLLA scaffolds of the tissue-engineered constructs.
A History of Everyday Things in England: Illustrators of mid-twentieth-century social history books
Authors: McCannon Desdemona
Published: April 2017

The illustrated books considered in this article present histories of everyday life and align with the genre of history writing that had existed at least since the nineteenth century, of women documenting the domestic sphere, challenging the hegemonic and dominant narratives of history and presenting ‘Englishness’ instead within the practices and objects of the everyday. The use of illustrations to evoke empathy, describe the detail of ordinary lives and offer graphic interpretations of data shows an engagement with the pedagogical possibilities of visual literacy in schoolbooks, allied to developments in the state school system at the time. The books demonstrate a variety of approaches towards the function of illustration in textbooks for children. These approaches include presenting ‘picturesque’ narratives, promoting imaginative empathy through the use of contempareneous visual source material, and encouraging critical thinking through pattern recognition in the assessment of information graphics. The article considers the visual mode in each book and maps its production onto social, political and ideological contexts of mid-twentieth-century England, offering feminist perspectives on the notion of history writing, scholarship and pedagogy.
The Evaluation of Benefit of Newly Prepared Reversible Inhibitors of Acetylcholinesterase and Commonly Used Pyridostigmine as Pharmacological Pretreatment of Soman-Poisoned Mice
Authors: Kassa Jiří , Korábečný Jan , Nepovimová Eugenie
Published: April 2017

Aim: The ability of four newly prepared reversible inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (6-chlorotacrine, 7-phenoxytacrine, compounds 1 and 2) and currently used carbamate pyridostigmine to increase the resistance of mice against soman and the efficacy of antidotal treatment of soman-poisoned mice was evaluated. Methods: The evaluation of the effect of pharmacological pretreatment is based on the identification of changes of soman-induced toxicity that was evaluated by the assessment of its LD50 value and its 95% confidence limit using probitlogarithmical analysis of death occurring within 24 h after administration of soman. Results: 6-chlorotacrine was only able to markedly protect mice against acute toxicity of soman. In addition, the pharmacological pretreatment with 6-chlorotacrine or compound 2 was able to increase the efficacy of antidotal treatment (the oxime HI-6 in combination with atropine) of soman-poisoned mice. The other newly prepared reversible inhibitors of acetylcholinesterase (7-phenoxytacrine, compound 1) as well as commonly used pyridostigmine did not influence the efficacy of antidotal treatment. Conclusion: These findings demonstrate that pharmacological pretreatment of somanpoisoned mice can be promising and useful in the case of administration of 6-chlorotacrine and partly compound 2.
Narrative, machinima and cognitive realism: Constructing an authentic real-world learning experience for law students
Authors: Matthew Anne Francis , Butler Desmond
Published: April 2017

In Australian law schools didactic pedagogies such as lectures devoted to the transmission of theory and knowledge to a largely passive audience still predominate. However, curriculum design embedding authentic learning pedagogies has been shown to be supportive of student learning. The challenge in adopting such curriculum design is how to offer situated cognitive learning opportunities on a large scale to increasingly diverse cohorts. This paper is a case study of a blended learning approach introduced into a second year undergraduate law unit to teach negotiation theory and practice to a large cohort of students studying in full-time, part-time, and distance external modes. This innovation was situated in an authentic simulated learning environment created through careful design of a high-fidelity scenario, utilising a narrative depicted by Second Life machinima video and simulated documentation. This approach resulted in greater student engagement and improved learning outcomes.
Loss of α-Synuclein Does Not Affect Mitochondrial Bioenergetics in Rodent Neurons
Authors: Pathak Divya , Berthet Amandine , Bendor Jacob T. , Yu Katharine , Sellnow Rhyomi C. , Orr Adam L. , Nguyen Mai K , Edwards Robert H. , Manfredsson Fredric P. , Nakamura Ken
Published: April 2017

Increased α-synuclein (αsyn) and mitochondrial dysfunction play central roles in the pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease (PD), and lowering αsyn is under intensive investigation as a therapeutic strategy for PD. Increased αsyn levels disrupt mitochondria and impair respiration, while reduced αsyn protects against mitochondrial toxins, suggesting that interactions between αsyn and mitochondria influences the pathologic and physiologic functions of αsyn. However, we do not know if αsyn affects normal mitochondrial function or if lowering αsyn levels impacts bioenergetic function, especially at the nerve terminal where αsyn is enriched. To determine if αsyn is required for normal mitochondrial function in neurons, we comprehensively evaluated how lowering αsyn affects mitochondrial function. We found that αsyn knockout (KO) does not affect the respiration of cultured hippocampal neurons or cortical and dopaminergic synaptosomes, and that neither loss of αsyn nor all three (α, β and γ) syn isoforms decreased mitochondria-derived ATP levels at the synapse. Similarly, neither αsyn KO nor knockdown altered the capacity of synaptic mitochondria to meet the energy requirements of synaptic vesicle cycling or influenced the localization of mitochondria to dopamine (DA) synapsesin vivo. Finally, αsyn KO did not affect overall energy metabolism in mice assessed with a Comprehensive Lab Animal Monitoring System. These studies suggest either that αsyn has little or no significant physiological effect on mitochondrial bioenergetic function, or that any such functions are fully compensated for when lost. These results implicate that αsyn levels can be reduced in neurons without impairing (or improving) mitochondrial bioenergetics or distribution.
New Repeat Polymorphism in theAKT1Gene Predicts Striatal Dopamine D2/D3 Receptor Availability and Stimulant-Induced Dopamine Release in the Healthy Human Brain
Authors: Shumay Elena , Wiers Corinde E. , Shokri-Kojori Ehsan , Kim Sung Won , Hodgkinson Colin A. , Sun Hui , Tomasi Dardo , Wong Christopher T. , Weinberger Daniel R. , Wang Gene-Jack , Fowler Joanna S. , Volkow Nora D.
Published: April 2017

The role of the protein kinase Akt1 in dopamine neurotransmission is well recognized and has been implicated in schizophrenia and psychosis. However, the extent to which variants in theAKT1gene influence dopamine neurotransmission is not well understood. Here we investigated the effect of a newly characterized variant number tandem repeat (VNTR) polymorphism inAKT1[major alleles: L- (eight repeats) and H- (nine repeats)] on striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptor (DRD2) availability and on dopamine release in healthy volunteers. We used PET and [11C]raclopride to assess baseline DRD2 availability in 91 participants. In 54 of these participants, we also measured intravenous methylphenidate-induced dopamine release to measure dopamine release. Dopamine release was quantified as the difference in specific binding of [11C]raclopride (nondisplaceable binding potential) between baseline values and values following methylphenidate injection. There was an effect ofAKT1genotype on DRD2 availability at baseline for the caudate (F(2,90)= 8.2,p= 0.001) and putamen (F(2,90)= 6.6,p= 0.002), but not the ventral striatum (p= 0.3). For the caudate and putamen, LL showed higher DRD2 availability than HH; HL were in between. There was also a significant effect ofAKT1genotype on dopamine increases in the ventral striatum (F(2,53)= 5.3,p= 0.009), with increases being stronger in HH > HL > LL. However, no dopamine increases were observed in the caudate (p= 0.1) or putamen (p= 0.8) following methylphenidate injection. Our results provide evidence that theAKT1gene modulates both striatal DRD2 availability and dopamine release in the human brain, which could account for its association with schizophrenia and psychosis. The clinical relevance of the newly characterizedAKT1VNTR merits investigation.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTTheAKT1gene has been implicated in schizophrenia and psychosis. This association is likely to reflect modulation of dopamine signaling by Akt1 kinase since striatal dopamine hyperstimulation is associated with psychosis and schizophrenia. Here, using PET with [11C]raclopride, we identified in theAKT1gene a new variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) marker associated with baseline striatal dopamine D2/D3 receptor availability and with methylphenidate-induced striatal dopamine increases in healthy volunteers. Our results confirm the involvement of theAKT1gene in modulating striatal dopamine signaling in the human brain. Future studies are needed to assess the association of this new VNTRAKT1variant in schizophrenia and drug-induced psychoses.
Heterologous Expression of a New Acetyl Xylan Esterase from Aspergillus niger BE-2 and its Synergistic Action with Xylan-Degrading Enzymes in the Hydrolysis of Bamboo Biomass
Authors: Wu Hongli , Xue Yong , Li Hailong , Gan Lihui , Liu Jian , Long Minnan
Published: April 2017

Efficient utilization of plant biomass by enzymatic hydrolysis is currently studied worldwide but still faces enormous challenges because of the inability to break down lignocellulosic materials with high sugar yields and low enzyme dosage. Therefore, the synergistic action between various enzymes plays an important role in reaching this goal. The synergistic cooperation between a novel acetyl xylan esterase (heterologous expressed at high levels in this study) and four other xylan-degrading enzymes (reported previously) were performed in this study. The acetyl xylan esterase (AnAxe) gene was cloned from Aspergillus niger BE-2 and expressed in Pichia pastoris GS115. The deduced amino acid (aa) sequence consisted of 304-aa and included a 23-aa signal peptide and 281-aa mature protein. The AnAxe was extracellularly expressed with a molecular weight of ca. 31 kDa. The purified AnAxe exhibited maximal specific activity of 480.2 IU/mg at pH 7.0 and 40 °C and was still thermostable below 50 °C. The metal ions used in this study and EDTA showed a slight effect on the AnAxe. A significant synergistic effect was determined between AnAxe and the other four xylan-degrading enzymes, including endo-Beta-1,4-xylanases, Beta-xylosidases, alpha-L-arabinofurano-sidases, and alpha-glucuronidases, on the degradation of bamboo biomass. The highest degree of synergism was obtained between AnAxe and endo-Beta-1,4-xylanases/Beta-xylosidases.
The Ten Principles of Karaite Faith in a Seventeenth-Century Hebrew Poem from Troki
Authors: Tuori Riikka
Published: April 2017

The ten principles of Karaite faith were originally compiled by medieval Byzantine Karaite scholars to sum up the basics of the Karaite Jewish creed. Early modern Karaites wrote poetic interpretations on the principles. This article provides an analysis and an English translation of a seventeenth-century Hebrew poem by the Lithuanian Karaite, Yehuda ben Aharon. In this didactic poem, Yehuda ben Aharon discusses the essence of divinity and the status of the People of Israel, the heavenly origin of the Torah, and future redemption. The popularity of Karaite commentaries and poems on the principles during the early modern period shows that dogma―and how to understand it correctly―had become central for the theological considerations of Karaite scholars. The source for this attentiveness is traced to the Byzantine Karaite literature written on the principles and to the treatment of the Maimonidean principles in late medieval rabbinic literature.
A magyar alpesi sízők és hódeszkázók egészségkárosodásainak összehasonlító statisztikai elemzése
Authors: Felkai Péter , Lengyel Ingrid , Szokoly Miklós , Forgó Gábor
Published: April 2017

Abstract:

Introduction and aim: There are no high mountains or any advantageous circumstances for winter sports in Hungary, yet within the 10 million population there are about half a million people (the exact number is 550,000) who tend to go for skiing or snowboarding abroad. Authors compared the injury statistical data with results described in the international literature in order to develop conclusions about the differences in the injury patterns and frequency between the Hungarian ones’ and those found in countries with plenty of winter sport possibilities. Method: Authors analysed the winter sport injury cases of an insurance company. All the injury happened abroad and the assistance provider of the insurance company has managed the patient treatment and repatriation. Three winter seasons (12 months) data was analysed from the point of view of injuries frequency at different body parts and areas. Due to the fact that only limited information was available a simple statistical method was applied. Results: Of 222 cases 90.5% were ski-related injury and 8.6% were snowboard injury. As for the skiers, the upper limb injuries accounted for 21.9%, the truncal region for 24.4% and the lower limb for 55.8%. Among snowboarders the upper limb injuries accounted for 36.9%, the truncal region for 37% and the lower limb for 26.1%. The most frequent was the knee (36.8%), the wrist (12.4) and the shoulder (11.4) injury. Skier’s thumb injury was only 1.5%. The most common snowboard injury was the wrist trauma (31.6%), the head/neck/face was accounted 15.8% of all the injuries. And the ankle was injured in 10.5% of all the cases. The head/neck and the knee injury often combined with injuries of some other body part. 29 patients (13%) had to be repatriated, the most frequent reason for the repatriation was the injury of the lower limb. Conclusions: The Hungarian sportsmen’s injury patterns do not always follow data described in the international literature, but they correspond to data of countries with similar geographical situation. The injury rate of knee and of the shoulder displays same data, the injury rate of the wrist was more frequent than in the international data, and this is true both for skiers and the snowboarders. The Hungarians’ injury of the truncal region (mainly the head) was more frequent, but on the other hand the general injury rate of other body parts proved to be a lower number. It seems that the frequent use of the protective equipment and the preventive measures applied by the Hungarians are mirrored in the lower injury figures. Orv. Hetil., 2017, 158(16), 618–624.
Influence of biomass fly ash additive on blast-furnace cement hydration and hardening
Authors: Kaminskas Rimvydas , Cesnauskas Vytautas , Kubiliute Raimonda
Published: April 2017

The aim of this study is to investigate the possibility of using biomass fly ash (AFA) as an additive for blast-furnace cement, where 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25% (by weight) of the Portland cement is replaced by AFA. The specimens are then hardened for 7, 28 and 90 d under normal conditions. It is found that the AFA additive accelerates the initial hydration of blast-furnace cement and promotes hydration of the slag component, but has a negative effect on the early compressive strength of samples. Nevertheless, at a later period of hardening (after 28 and 90 d of hydration), AFA additive (up to 10 wt%) increases the compressive strength of the samples. This effect is related to the formation of gismondine (CaAl2Si2O8·4H2O) and a significant amount of calcium silicate hydrates. It is determined that AFA activates the latent hydraulic properties of blast-furnace slag, but the slag pozzolanic reaction in blast-furnace cement samples with the AFA additive proceeds slowly and occurs more intensively at a later period of hardening.