bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seismic Performance and Effects of Different Joint Shapes for Unbonded Precast Segmental Bridge Columns
Authors: Wang H.-L. , Liu S.-W. , Zhang Z.
Published: April 2016

To study the seismic performance and the effects of different joint shapes for unbonded precast segmental bridge columns under low-reversed cyclic loading, two 3-D finite element (FE) models respectively using plane-contact joints and shear resistant joints were established. In the FE models, the mechanical behaviors of concrete and tendons were respectively described by the damage-plastic model and the bilinear model, and the contact criteria was based on Coulomb's Friction. The results of nonlinear time history analysis showed that the deformation of the columns was mainly composed of alternately open-closed joints, and the failure of the column was mainly caused by concrete crush on the bottom segment. Compared with two model's hysteresis loop, backbone curve, ductility and residual deformation, it was found that the column with shear resistant joints had longer stable period of strength, better ductility, and smaller residual displacement than the column with plane-contact joints, so it had better seismic performance.
An epidemiological study of A. cantonensis in Jamaica subsequent to an outbreak of human cases of eosinophilic meningitis in 2000
Authors: WAUGH C. A. , LINDO J. F. , LORENZO-MORALES J. , ROBINSON R. D.
Published: April 2016

The infection status of angiostrongylosis in Jamaica was assessed in wild rats and molluscs in the 5 years following the major outbreak of eosinophilic meningitis (EM) in 2000. Parasitological analyses of 297 Rattus rattus and 140 Rattus norvegicus, and 777 terrestrial molluscs from all 14 Parishes on the island revealed Angiostrongylus cantonensis in 32·0% of the rats and in 12·5% of the molluscs. Multivariate analyses confirmed that A. cantonensis occurred significantly more frequently in R. rattus (Odds Ratio [OR] = 1·76), while mean infection intensity in R. rattus was also significantly higher (16·8) than R. norvegicus (11·3) (Mann–Whitney U-test: P = 0·01). Third-stage larvae of A. cantonensis were detected in 29% of 86 Pleurodonte spp.; in 20% of five Poteria spp.; in 18·7% of 369 Thelidomus asper; in 11% of 18 Sagda spp.; and in 6% of 24 veronicellid slugs. Most rodent infections occurred in Northeastern Jamaica (OR = 11·66), a region where infected molluscs were also abundant. Given the prevalence of A. cantonensis infection in rats has significantly increased since the 2000 outbreak, and that a survey of human infections revealed at least ten autochthonous cases in the last 15 years, angiostrongylosis persists as an important zoonosis in Jamaica.
Disjunctions: Theory and Practice, Teaching and Research
Authors: Andrew Edward
Published: April 2016

Beiner's excellent book is the fruit of more than a dozen years teaching his Horizons course that introduced graduate students to a critical examination of a wide range of twentieth-century political philosophers, some familiar to most students, such as Rawls and Arendt, and some unfamiliar, such as Weil and Löwith. In the 1980s and 1990s, before he taught the course, some of my most enjoyable teaching experiences were team teaching with Beiner courses on Foucault and Heidegger, which provided background for his effort to create a twentieth-century canon in his Horizons course. Beiner has been a steadfast defender of canonicity in a university bent on diluting the core curriculum.
Navigating Pluralism: Beiner on Habermas
Authors: Chambers Simone
Published: April 2016

One of the hazards in writing a book that surveys a large number of thinkers is that readers are likely to praise the book in general but take issue with the chapter that treads into their bailiwick. I am no exception as I will focus on Beiner's chapter on Habermas. I conclude, however, with some general observations about Beiner's idea and ideal of political philosophy. I offer this response in the same spirit in which Beiner wrote the book. He tells his reader that to hold back from the very toughest challenge is a form of condescension (xi). So I will not hold back.
A Roman Pond at Wyre Piddle, Worcestershire, with a Brief Survey of Ponds in Roman Britain
Authors: Hurst Derek , Daffern Nicholas , Griffin Laura , Head Katie , Mann Andrew , Pearson Elizabeth , Warman Sylvia
Published: April 2016

Artificial Roman ponds present in various guises, but they are relatively rarely found in the service of rural agriculture. This article focuses on a possible example of this type from Worcestershire, where extensive excavation has been carried out. The results demonstrate the potential of a pond for the reconstruction of wider landscape usage, while the considerable quantity of associated finds potentially sheds some light on social practice. A review of similar sites across Roman Britain suggests there may be practical (in essence curatorial) issues about the fuller investigation of such features once identified, in order that a similarly high level of data can be achieved more regularly, and suggests a need for prospection/mapping for the better management of this resource, especially employing newly available LiDAR data.
Ambulant erworbene Pneumonie einer älteren Patientin
Authors: Füri Julia , Oestmann Andreas , Repond Fernand
Published: April 2016

Zusammenfassung. Wir berichten über eine 88-jährige Patientin mit Husten und neu aufgetretener Verwirrung. Als Ursache für das Delir fand sich eine abszedierende Pneumonie durch einen Methicillin-sensiblen Staphylococcus aureus mit Bakteriämie. Trotz mehrwöchiger antibiotischer Therapie mit Regredienz der Infektparameter verstarb die Patientin an den Folgen eines Delirs.
Villages Must Recalibrate Time to Survive in the Pamir Mountains
Authors: Landis Ben
Published: April 2016

Scientists plan projects this year to help a rugged, troubled region of central Asia retune traditional timekeeping methods based on environmental cues in the face of climate change.
A small number of abnormal brain connections predicts adult autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Yahata Noriaki , Morimoto Jun , Hashimoto Ryuichiro , Lisi Giuseppe , Shibata Kazuhisa , Kawakubo Yuki , Kuwabara Hitoshi , Kuroda Miho , Yamada Takashi , Megumi Fukuda , Imamizu Hiroshi , Náñez Sr José E. , Takahashi Hidehiko , Okamoto Yasumasa , Kasai Kiyoto , Kato Nobumasa , Sasaki Yuka , Watanabe Takeo , Kawato Mitsuo
Published: April 2016

Although autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a serious lifelong condition, its underlying neural mechanism remains unclear. Recently, neuroimaging-based classifiers for ASD and typically developed (TD) individuals were developed to identify the abnormality of functional connections (FCs). Due to over-fitting and interferential effects of varying measurement conditions and demographic distributions, no classifiers have been strictly validated for independent cohorts. Here we overcome these difficulties by developing a novel machine-learning algorithm that identifies a small number of FCs that separates ASD versus TD. The classifier achieves high accuracy for a Japanese discovery cohort and demonstrates a remarkable degree of generalization for two independent validation cohorts in the USA and Japan. The developed ASD classifier does not distinguish individuals with major depressive disorder and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder from their controls but moderately distinguishes patients with schizophrenia from their controls. The results leave open the viable possibility of exploring neuroimaging-based dimensions quantifying the multiple-disorder spectrum.
Tuning of AKT-pathway by Nef and its blockade by protease inhibitors results in limited recovery in latently HIV infected T-cell line
Authors: Kumar Amit , Abbas Wasim , Colin Laurence , Khan Kashif Aziz , Bouchat Sophie , Varin Audrey , Larbi Anis , Gatot Jean-Stéphane , Kabeya Kabamba , Vanhulle Caroline , Delacourt Nadège , Pasquereau Sébastien , Coquard Laurie , Borch Alexandra , König Renate , Clumeck Nathan , De Wit Stephane , Rohr Olivier , Rouzioux Christine , Fulop Tamas , Van Lint Carine , Herbein Georges
Published: April 2016

Akt signaling plays a central role in many biological processes, which are key players in human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) pathogenesis. We found that Akt interacts with HIV-1 Nef protein. In primary T cells treated with exogenous Nef or acutely infected with Nef-expressing HIV-1 in vitro, Akt became phosphorylated on serine473 and threonine308. In vitro, Akt activation mediated by Nef in T-cells was blocked by HIV protease inhibitors (PI), but not by reverse transcriptase inhibitors (RTI). Ex vivo, we found that the Akt pathway is hyperactivated in peripheral blood lymphocytes (PBLs) from cART naïve HIV-1-infected patients. PBLs isolated from PI-treated patients, but not from RTI-treated patients, exhibited decreased Akt activation, T-cell proliferation and IL-2 production. We found that PI but not RTI can block HIV-1 reactivation in latently infected J-Lat lymphoid cells stimulated with various stimuli. Using luciferase measurement, we further confirmed that Nef-mediated reactivation of HIV-1 from latency in 1G5 cells was blocked by PI parallel to decreased Akt activation. Our results indicate that PI-mediated blockade of Akt activation could impact the HIV-1 reservoir and support the need to further assess the therapeutic use of HIV-1 PI in order to curtail latently infected cells in HIV-1-infected patients.
Ultrafast Investigation of Intramolecular Charge Transfer and Solvation Dynamics of Tetrahydro[5]-helicene-Based Imide Derivatives
Authors: Zhu Huaning , Li Meng , Hu Jiangpu , Wang Xian , Jie Jialong , Guo Qianjin , Chen Chuanfeng , Xia Andong
Published: April 2016

We report the excited-state intramolecular charge transfer (ICT) characteristics of four tetrahydro[5] helicene-based imide (THHBI) derivatives with various electron-donating substitutes in different polarity of solvents using steady-state, time-resolved transient absorption (TA) spectroscopy. It is found that, the small bathochromic-shift of the absorption spectra but large red shift of the emission spectra for all dyes with increasing solvent polarity indicates the larger dipole moment of the excited state compared to ground state. The results of theoretical calculations exhibit the charge transfer from the terminal donors to helical backbone, which accounts for the degrees of red shift of the emission spectra from different extent of ICT nature. Time-resolved TA spectra recorded as a function of electron-donating substitutes and solvent polarity show the dye with stronger donors (THHBI-PhNPh2) in more polar solvent behaves faster excited-state ICT relaxation, leading to the formation of solvent-stabilized ICT state (ICT’ state) from the excited ICT state; The dyes (THHBI-Ph, THHBI-PhCF3 and THHBI-PhOMe) with relative weaker donors show weaker dependence on solvent polarity and instead of that intersystem crossing (ISC) becomes possible from ICT state to triplet state.
Broadband photon pair generation in green fluorescent proteins through spontaneous four-wave mixing
Authors: Shi Siyuan , Thomas Abu , Corzo Neil V. , Kumar Prem , Huang Yuping , Lee Kim Fook
Published: April 2016

Recent studies in quantum biology suggest that quantum mechanics help us to explore quantum processes in biological system. Here, we demonstrate generation of photon pairs through spontaneous four-wave mixing process in naturally occurring fluorescent proteins. We develop a general empirical method for analyzing the relative strength of nonlinear optical interaction processes in five different organic fluorophores. Our results indicate that the generation of photon pairs in green fluorescent proteins is subject to less background noises than in other fluorophores, leading to a coincidence-to-accidental ratio ~145. As such proteins can be genetically engineered and fused to many biological cells, our experiment enables a new platform for quantum information processing in a biological environment such as biomimetic quantum networks and quantum sensors.
Mineral dust aerosols promote the formation of toxic nitropolycyclic aromatic compounds
Authors: Kameda Takayuki , Azumi Eri , Fukushima Aki , Tang Ning , Matsuki Atsushi , Kamiya Yuta , Toriba Akira , Hayakawa Kazuichi
Published: April 2016

Atmospheric nitrated polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs), which have been shown to have adverse health effects such as carcinogenicity, are formed in part through nitration reactions of their parent polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in the atmosphere. However, little is known about heterogeneous nitration rates of PAHs by gaseous NO2 on natural mineral substrates, such as desert dust aerosols. Herein by employing kinetic experiments using a flow reactor and surface analysis by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy with pyridine adsorption, we demonstrate that the reaction is accelerated on acidic surfaces of mineral dust, particularly on those of clay minerals. In support of this finding, we show that levels of ambient particle-associated NPAHs in Beijing, China, significantly increased during heavy dust storms. These results suggest that mineral dust surface reactions are an unrecognized source of toxic organic chemicals in the atmosphere and that they enhance the toxicity of mineral dust aerosols in urban environments.
Gender Influences on Brain Responses to Errors and Post-Error Adjustments
Authors: Fischer Adrian G. , Danielmeier Claudia , Villringer Arno , Klein Tilmann A. , Ullsperger Markus
Published: April 2016

Sexual dimorphisms have been observed in many species, including humans and extend to the prevalence and presentation of important mental disorders associated with performance monitoring malfunctions. However, precisely which underlying differences between genders contribute to the alterations observed in psychiatric diseases is unknown. Here, we compare behavioural and neural correlates of cognitive control functions in 438 female and 436 male participants performing a flanker task while EEG was recorded. We found that males showed stronger performance-monitoring-related EEG amplitude modulations which were employed to predict subjects’ genders with ~72% accuracy. Females showed more post-error slowing, but both samples did not differ in regard to response-conflict processing and coupling between the error-related negativity (ERN) and consecutive behavioural slowing. Furthermore, we found that the ERN predicted consecutive behavioural slowing within subjects, whereas its overall amplitude did not correlate with post-error slowing across participants. These findings elucidate specific gender differences in essential neurocognitive functions with implications for clinical studies. They highlight that within- and between-subject associations for brain potentials cannot be interpreted in the same way. Specifically, despite higher general amplitudes in males, it appears that the dynamics of coupling between ERN and post-error slowing between men and women is comparable.
Gradient Index Devices for the Full Control of Elastic Waves in Plates
Authors: Jin Yabin , Torrent Daniel , Pennec Yan , Pan Yongdong , Djafari-Rouhani Bahram
Published: April 2016

In this work, we present a method for the design of gradient index devices for elastic waves in plates. The method allows the design of devices to control the three fundamental modes, despite the fact that their dispersion relation is managed by different elastic constants. It is shown that by means of complex graded phononic crystals and thickness variations it is possible to independently design the three refractive indexes of these waves, allowing therefore their simultaneous control. The effective medium theory required for this purpose is presented and the method is applied to the design of the Luneburg and Maxwell lenses as well as to the design of a flat gradient index lens. Finally, numerical simulations are used to demonstrate the performance of the method in a broadband frequency region.
Tunable high quality factor in two multimode plasmonic stubs waveguide
Authors: Chen Zhiquan , Li Hongjian , Zhan Shiping , Li Boxun , He Zhihui , Xu Hui , Zheng Mingfei
Published: April 2016

We numerically investigate the optical characteristics of a metal-dielectric-metal (MDM) waveguide side-coupled with two identical multimode stub resonators. Double plasmon-induced transparency (PIT) peaks with narrow full width at half maximum (FWHM) and high quality factor (Q-factor) can be observed in this structure. The Q-factors of PIT peaks in two stub resonators system are larger than those in single stub resonator system. A multimode coupled-radiation oscillator theory (MC-ROT), which is derived from ROT, is proposed to analyze the spectral response in the multimode system for the first time. The analytical results are confirmed by the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) simulation results. We can also find that the Q-factors of the two PIT peaks have an opposite evolution tendency with the change of the stubs parameters and the maximum can reach to 427. These results may provide some applications for ultrasensitive sensors, switches and efficient filters.
Reduced expression of cytochrome oxidases largely explains cAMP inhibition of aerobic growth in Shewanella oneidensis
Authors: Yin Jianhua , Meng Qiu , Fu Huihui , Gao Haichun
Published: April 2016

Inhibition of bacterial growth under aerobic conditions by elevated levels of cyclic adenosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cAMP), first revealed more than 50 years ago, was attributed to accumulation of toxic methylglyoxal (MG). Here, we report a Crp-dependent mechanism rather than MG accumulation that accounts for the phenotype inShewanella oneidensis, an emerging research model for the bacterial physiology. We show that a similar phenotype can be obtained by removing CpdA, a cAMP phosphodiesterase that appears more effective than itsEscherichia colicounterpart. Although production of hemecand cytochromescis correlated well with cAMP levels, neither is sufficient for the retarded growth. Quantities of overall cytochromescincreased substantially in the presence of elevated cAMP, a phenomenon resembling cells respiring on non-oxygen electron acceptors. In contrast, transcription of Crp-dependent genes encoding both cytochromesbdandcbb3oxidases is substantially repressed under the same condition. Overall, our results suggest that cAMP of elevated levels drives cells into a low-energetic status, under which aerobic respiration is inhibited.
Parity-Time Symmetry Breaking in Coupled Nanobeam Cavities
Authors: Zhang Senlin , Yong Zhengdong , Zhang Yuguang , He Sailing
Published: April 2016

The concept of parity-time symmetry (PT symmetry) originates from the canonical quantum mechanics and has become a hot topic recently. As a versatile platform to investigate the intriguing concept, both theoretical and experimental works in optics have been implemented. In this paper, the PT symmetry breaking phenomenon is investigated in a coupled nanobeam cavity system. An exceptional point is observed during the tuning of the gain/loss level and the coupling strength of the closely placed nanobeam pair. Unidirectional light propagation is investigated, as well as enhanced sensitivity of single particle detection in the vicinity of the exceptional point. The proposed system is easy to be integrated with photonic integrated circuits and can be strongly coupled to optical waveguides.
Isotopically coded N-methoxy amide reagents for GC-MS profiling of carbonyl compounds via mass spectral tag generation
Authors: Biladeau Sara K. , Richmond William N. , Laulhé Sébastien , Nantz Michael H.
Published: April 2016

Isotopologues of reagent MAP (* = 13C) are described for chemoselective carbonyl labeling. Electron ionization-induced fragmentation of the N-methoxy amide moiety gives rise to labeled ethyl carbenium ion mass spectral tags (MST) for quantifications in multiplexed GC-MS experiments.
Halogen determination in food and biological materials using plasma-based techniques: challenges and trends of sample preparation
Authors: Mesko Marcia F. , Costa Vanize C. , Picoloto Rochele S. , Bizzi Cezar A. , Mello Paola A.
Published: April 2016

Sample preparation for trace halogen determination in biological and food samples is a critical aspect to be considered.
Itaconic acid – a versatile building block for renewable polyesters with enhanced functionality
Authors: Robert Tobias , Friebel Stefan
Published: April 2016

Itaconic acid has attracted considerable attention as a bio-based building block in radical polymerizations. However, only a few studies have been dedicated to polyesters derived from this interesting α,β-unsaturated dicarbonic acid. This review aims to highlight the most important work in this field and show the unique properties of these renewable unsaturated polyesters.
A triblock terpolymer vs. blends of diblock copolymers for nanocapsules addressed by three independent stimuli
Authors: Behzadi Shahed , Gallei Markus , Elbert Johannes , Appold Michael , Glasser Gunnar , Landfester Katharina , Crespy Daniel
Published: April 2016

The chemical structure of triblock terpolymers is exploited to achieve polymer nanocapsules responsive to three different stimuli.
Synthesis of heterocyclic scaffolds through 6-aminouracil-involved multicomponent reactions
Authors: Mohammadi Ziarani Ghodsi , Hosseini Nasab Narges , Lashgari Negar
Published: April 2016

There is a wide range of multicomponent reactions that include 6-aminouracil in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds. This review highlights the advances in the use of 6-aminouracil in the synthesis of various organic compounds.
Removal of anionic azo dye from water with activated graphene oxide: kinetic, equilibrium and thermodynamic modeling
Authors: Guo Yongfu , Deng Juan , Zhu Junyan , Zhou Chao , Zhou Caiyun , Zhou Xiaoji , Bai Renbi
Published: April 2016

In order to improve the BET value and adsorption capacity of graphene oxide (GO), activated GO (GOKOH) was successfully prepared by high temperature solid state activation with KOH, and was used to remove the anionic dye orange IV from water.
A novel three-stage treatment train for the remediation of trichloroethylene-contaminated groundwater
Authors: Peng Yen-Ping , Chen Ku-Fan , Lin Wei-Han , Chang Yu-Chen , Wu Fei
Published: April 2016

The proposed treatment train removed TCE and its by-products effectively and there was no problem with the connection of chemical oxidation and anaerobic bioremediation in the novel treatment train technology.
Palladium nanoparticles catalyzed aroylation of NH-sulfoximines with aryl iodides
Authors: Sharma Nidhi , Sekar Govindasamy
Published: April 2016

A novel approach towards aroylation of NH-sulfoximines with aryl iodides in the presence of carbon monoxide using Pd nanoparticles stabilized by a binaphthyl backbone (Pd-BNP) has been developed.
Concomitant polymorphs of methoxyflavone (5-methyl-7-methoxyflavone)
Authors: Gong Ningbo , Hu Kun , Jin Guimin , Du Guanhua , Lu Yang
Published: April 2016

A novel metastable polymorph and an unstable amorphous phase of methoxyflavone were discovered after a decade since the first report of the X-ray crystal structure of this bioactive compound.
Perfluoroalkyl-substituted conjugated polymers as electron acceptors for all-polymer solar cells: the effect of diiodoperfluoroalkane additives
Authors: Zhang Andong , Wang Qiang , Bovee Ralf A. A. , Li Cheng , Zhang Jianqi , Zhou Yi , Wei Zhixiang , Li Yongfang , Janssen René A. J. , Wang Zhaohui , Li Weiwei
Published: April 2016

Diiodoperfluorohexane as a solvent additive was successfully applied in polymer–polymer solar cells based on conjugated polymers with perfluoroalkyl side chains as electron acceptors.
Multi‐lane detection based on omnidirectional camera using anisotropic steerable filters
Authors: Li Chuanxiang , Dai Bin , Wang Ruili , Fang Yuqiang , Yuan Xingsheng , Wu Tao
Published: April 2016

Automated lane detection is a vital part of driver assistance systems in intelligent vehicles. In this study, a multi‐lane detection method based on omnidirectional images is presented to conquer the difficulties stemming from the limited view field of the rectilinear cameras. The contributions of this study are twofold. First, to extract the features of the lane markings under various illumination and road‐surface scenarios, a feature extractor based on anisotropic steerable filter is proposed. Second, a parabola lane model is used to fit the straight as well as curved lanes. According to the parabola lane model, the straight lines and curves of feature maps can be represented as straight lines in a linear space coordinate system. Then lane modelling can be treated as an optimisation question in linear space and the parameters of lanes can be estimated by minimising the objection function. The method has been tested on publicly available data sets and the real car experiments. Experimental results show that the proposed method outperforms state‐of‐the‐arts approaches and obtains a detection accuracy of 99% in real world scenes.
Analysis of influence on driver behaviour while using in‐vehicle traffic lights with application of head‐up display
Authors: Yang Bo , Zheng Rencheng , Yin Yuandong , Yamabe Shigeyuki , Nakano Kimihiko
Published: April 2016

Emerging vehicular communication makes it possible to provide traffic light information to drivers inside vehicles with the application of in‐vehicle devices. However, the effect of this method on driver behaviour is still unclear, and there is concern that the application of in‐vehicle traffic lights may result in driver distraction. This study proposed two modes of in‐vehicle traffic lights to assist drivers: a ‘current’ mode providing real‐time information of the upcoming ground traffic lights, and a ‘predicted’ mode offering predicted information regarding ground traffic lights, taking into account the time to arrival at the upcoming intersection. Two kinds of in‐vehicle devices were compared for displaying in‐vehicle traffic lights: a normal 4.3‐inch display and a head‐up display. A driving simulator experiment was executed for 11 subjects, and driver behaviour was evaluated for driving operations and eye‐gaze behaviour. The results demonstrated that disruptive braking and accelerating operations were significantly reduced under the predicted mode, and glance time was significantly shorter for the head‐up display than for the normal 4.3‐inch display. The authors concluded that the predicted mode easily prompts drivers to ecological driving, and that the head‐up display is reliable for providing in‐vehicle traffic light information.
Challenging issues of average consensus algorithms in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Khosravi Adel , Kavian Yousef S.
Published: April 2016

This study tackles common challenges of the average consensus algorithms in real‐world distributed wireless networks. The drawbacks of asynchronous transmissions, topology changes and communication delays on the distributed decision making of the network members to terminate a consensus algorithm are mainly studied. Two distributed stopping policies are proposed that help the network members to gradually stop message transmissions when they reach an acceptable accuracy of the final consensus value. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithms help previous consensus algorithms to decrease total packet transmissions in a random topology network. Simulation results also confirm that the proposed can perform in the presence of delayed members and non‐ideal transmissions.
Post-traumatic Tension Pneumoventricle: Case Report
Authors: Camelo Ricardo , Silva Josias , Camelo Rafael , Malta Moana , Alves Filho Arnon , Ribeiro Washington , Porfírio Adans , Oliveira Daniel
Published: April 2016

Pneumoventricle and liquoric fistula are possible complications of traumatic brain injury (TBI), the main cause of morbimortality related to trauma in Brazil. Liquoric fistulae are more common after direct trauma with skull base fractures. However, pneumoventricle is rare and occurs due to excessive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage in the presence of a poorly compliant ventricle system, resulting in the influx of air to its interior. The pathophysiology of tension pneumoventricle remains uncertain. However, the traumatic cause is certain and multiple bone fractures of the face and liquoric fistula may contribute to the process. If symptomatic, the tension pneumoventricle can cause rapid clinical deterioration. The authors aim to report a rare case of post-TBI tension pneumoventricle with complete resolution and without signs of recurrence of the liquoric fistula after surgical treatment.
Distortion and residual stresses in electron beam-welded hydroelectric turbine materials
Authors: Sarafan S. , Lévesque J.-B. , Wanjara P. , Gholipour J. , Champliaud H.
Published: April 2016

Heavy-section assembly of hydroelectric turbine runner materials using single-pass, autogenous EBW was demonstrated to penetrate a 90-mm-thick butt joint. The welding-induced distortions and residual stresses were characterised to understand the impact of the materials and process conditions (e.g. preheating and/or PWHT). Using 3D optical measurements, the angular distortions of EB-welded UNS S41500 and CA6NM steels were determined to be 0.13° and 0.38°, respectively. The longitudinal residual stresses, measured through the contour method, had a M-shaped distribution throughout the thickness with minimum (∼−500 MPa) compressive stresses in the FZ and maximum (∼600 MPa) tensile stresses in the HAZ. After PWHT, the tensile and compressive stresses reduced to ∼100 MPa.
Effect of joint design on the failure behaviour of three-stack-up austenitic stainless steel resistance spot welds
Authors: Zhang Y. , Li Y. , Luo Z. , Feng Y. , Zhou J.
Published: April 2016

Tensile shear tests were carried out on three-stack-up austenitic stainless steel resistance spot welds having four types of joint design. Mechanics-based criteria were applied to reveal the difference in the stress state at the microstructural level. Optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy showed evidence of the different stress states for different joint designs. Nugget rotation generated combined tensile/shear stress at the microstructural level. The peak load and the energy absorption of the joints reduced with the growth of the normal component of the global loads. Joints for which both interfaces bear the load were more prone to failure in pull-out mode.
Blood Pressure Variability and Prediction of Target Organ Damage in Patients With Uncomplicated Hypertension
Authors: Veloudi Panagiota , Blizzard Christopher L. , Head Geoffrey A. , Abhayaratna Walter P. , Stowasser Michael , Sharman James E.
Published: April 2016

BACKGROUND

The average of multiple blood pressure (BP) readings (mean BP) independently predicts target organ damage (TOD). Observational studies have also shown an independent relationship between BP variability (BPV) and TOD, but there is limited longitudinal data. This study aimed to determine the effects of changes in mean BP levels compared with BPV on left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and aortic pulse wave velocity (aPWV).

METHODS

Mean BP levels (research-protocol clinic BP (clinic BP), 24-hour ambulatory BP, and 7-day home BP) and BPV were assessed in 286 patients with uncomplicated hypertension (mean age 64±8 SD years, 53% women) over 12 months. Reading-to-reading BPV (from 24-hour ambulatory BP) and day-to-day BPV (from 7-day home BP) were assessed at baseline and 12 months, and visit-to-visit BPV (clinic BP) was assessed from 5 visits over 12 months. LVMI was measured by 3D echocardiography and aPWV with applanation tonometry.

RESULTS

The strongest predictors of the changes in LVMI (ΔLVMI) were the changes in mean 24-hour systolic BPs (SBPs) ( P < 0.02). Similarly, the strongest predictors of the changes in aPWV (ΔaPWV) were the changes in mean 24-hour ambulatory SBPs ( P < 0.01) and the changes in mean clinic SBP ( P < 0.001). However, none of the changes in BPV were independently associated with ΔLVMI or ΔaPWV ( P > 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSIONS

Changes in mean BP levels, but not BPV, were most relevant to changes in TOD in patients with uncomplicated hypertension. Thus, from this point of view, BPV appears to have limited clinical utility in this patient population.
Muxstep: an open-source C ++ multiplex HMM library for making inferences on multiple data types
Authors: Veličković Petar , Liò Pietro
Published: April 2016

Motivation: With the development of experimental methods and technology, we are able to reliably gain access to data in larger quantities, dimensions and types. This has great potential for the improvement of machine learning (as the learning algorithms have access to a larger space of information). However, conventional machine learning approaches used thus far on single-dimensional data inputs are unlikely to be expressive enough to accurately model the problem in higher dimensions; in fact, it should generally be most suitable to represent our underlying models as some form of complex networksng;nsio with nontrivial topological features. As the first step in establishing such a trend, we present muxstep, an open-source library utilising multiplex networks for the purposes of binary classification on multiple data types. The library is designed to be used out-of-the-box for developing models based on the multiplex network framework, as well as easily modifiable to suit problem modelling needs that may differ significantly from the default approach described.

Availability and Implementation: The full source code is available on GitHub: https://github.com/PetarV-/muxstep

Contact:  petar.velickovic@cl.cam.ac.uk

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Mid- and far-infrared properties of Spitzer Galactic bubbles revealed by the AKARI all-sky surveys
Authors: Hattori Yasuki , Kaneda Hidehiro , Ishihara Daisuke , Fukui Yasuo , Torii Kazufumi , Hanaoka Misaki , Kokusho Takuma , Kondo Akino , Shichi Kazuyuki , Ukai Sota , Yamagishi Mitsuyoshi , Yamaguchi Yuta
Published: April 2016

We have carried out a statistical study on the mid- and far-infrared (IR) properties of Galactic IR bubbles observed by Spitzer. Using the Spitzer 8 μm images, we estimated the radii and covering fractions of their shells, and categorized them into closed, broken, and unclassified bubbles with our data analysis method. Then, using the AKARI all-sky images at wavelengths of 9, 18, 65, 90, 140, and 160 μm, we obtained the spatial distributions and the luminosities of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH), warm, and cold dust components by decomposing six-band spectral energy distributions with model fitting. As a result, 180 sample bubbles show a wide range of total IR luminosities corresponding to the bolometric luminosities of a single B-type star to many O-type stars. For all the bubbles, we investigated relationships between the radius, luminosities, and luminosity ratios, and found that there are overall similarities in the IR properties among the bubbles regardless of their morphological types. In particular, they follow a power-law relation with an index of ∼3 between the total IR luminosity and radius, as expected from the conventional picture of the Strömgren sphere. The exceptions are large broken bubbles; they indicate higher total IR luminosities, lower fractional luminosities of the PAH emission, and dust heating sources located nearer to the shells. We discuss the implications of those differences for a massive star-formation scenario.
Rapid hyperosmotic-induced Ca2+responses inArabidopsis thalianaexhibit sensory potentiation and establish involvement of plastidial KEA transporters
Authors: Stephan Aaron B. , Kunz Hans-Henning , Yang Eric , Schroeder Julian
Published: April 2016

Plants experience hyperosmotic stress when faced with saline soils and possibly drought stress, but it is currently unclear how plants perceive this stress in an environment of dynamic water availabilities. Hyperosmotic stress induces a rapid rise in intracellular Ca2+ concentrations ([Ca2+]i) in plants, and this Ca2+response may reflect the activities of osmo-sensory components. Here, we find in the reference plantArabidopsis thalianathat the rapid hyperosmotic-induced Ca2+response exhibited enhanced response magnitudes after pre-exposure to an intermediate hyperosmotic stress. We term this phenomenon “osmo-sensory potentiation”. The initial sensing and potentiation occurred in intact plants as well as in roots. Having established a quantitative understanding of WT responses, we investigated effects of pharmacological inhibitors and candidate channel/transporter mutants. Quintuple MSL channel mutants as well as double MCA channel mutants did not affect the response. However interestingly, double mutations in the plastid KEA transporters,kea1kea2, and a single mutation that does not visibly affect chloroplast structure,kea3, impaired the rapid hyperosmotic-induced Ca2+responses. These mutations did not significantly affect sensory potentiation of the response. These findings suggest that plastids may play an important role in the early steps mediating the response to hyperosmotic stimuli. Together, these findings demonstrate that the plant osmosensory components necessary to generate rapid osmotic-induced Ca2+responses remains responsive under varying osmolarities, endowing plants with the ability to perceive the dynamic intensities of water limitation imposed by osmotic stress.

Significance Statement:

The sensitivity ranges of biological sensors determine when‐ and to what extent responses to environmental stimuli are activated. Plants may perceive water limitation imposed by soil salinity or drought in the form of osmotic stress, among other mechanisms. Rapid osmotic stress-induced Ca2+responses provide the opportunity to quantitatively characterize the responses to osmotic stress under environmental and genetic perturbations. This report describes a phenomenon whereby prior exposure to osmotic stress increases the sensitivity of the rapid responses to subsequent stress. Further, mutations in specific plastidial transporters were found to reduce the stress response. These findings inform the reader of new avenues for understanding osmotic stress responses in plants.
Large-scale analysis of genome and transcriptome alterations in multiple tumors unveils novel cancer-relevant splicing networks
Authors: Sebestyén Endre , Singh Babita , Miñana Belén , Pagès Amadís , Mateo Francesca , Pujana Miguel Angel , Valcárcel Juan , Eyras Eduardo
Published: April 2016

Alternative splicing is regulated by multiple RNA-binding proteins and influences the expression of most eukaryotic genes. However, the role of this process in human disease, and particularly in cancer, is only starting to be unveiled. We systematically analyzed mutation, copy number, and gene expression patterns of 1348 RNA-binding protein (RBP) genes in 11 solid tumor types, together with alternative splicing changes in these tumors and the enrichment of binding motifs in the alternatively spliced sequences. Our comprehensive study reveals widespread alterations in the expression of RBP genes, as well as novel mutations and copy number variations in association with multiple alternative splicing changes in cancer drivers and oncogenic pathways. Remarkably, the altered splicing patterns in several tumor types recapitulate those of undifferentiated cells. These patterns are predicted to be mainly controlled by MBNL1 and involve multiple cancer drivers, including the mitotic gene NUMA1. We show that NUMA1 alternative splicing induces enhanced cell proliferation and centrosome amplification in nontumorigenic mammary epithelial cells. Our study uncovers novel splicing networks that potentially contribute to cancer development and progression.
Doing masculinities in construction project management
Authors: Olofsdotter Gunilla , Randevåg Lena
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This study aims to examine how masculinities are (re)produced in project-based organizations. The authors first investigate the doing of masculinities in everyday work practices in construction project management. Second, the authors investigate whether there are opportunities to perceive, or do, gender differently in this specific context.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are elicited from a case study of construction project managers working on a infrastructure project. The project managers were interviewed through semi-structured informal interviews regarding their experiences of project work. The analysis was inspired by the competing discourses and practices of masculinity in organizations outlined by Collinson and Hearn (1994).

Findings

The results showed how multiple masculinities coexist and overlap in the project organization and in the everyday practices of project management. Both male and female project managers must adjust to these masculine discourses and act in accordance with a particular context. But the results also showed opportunities to challenge the masculine norms by doing gender differently.

Practical implications

The results of this study highlights opportunities for creating a more gender-equal work environment in the construction industry. The multiple ways of doing masculinity, by both men and women, highlights the possibilities to balance between doing it well and differently. Such knowledge can be used in policy and strategies for equal opportunities for men and women in organizations.

Originality/value

This study provides insights into the (re)production of multiple masculinities in construction project management. This study contributes to the criticism of the normative conceptions that have characterized the literature on project management. The authors add to the tradition of organization studies by arguing that the gender analysis of project management is important to increase understandings of how projects are managed and, in this case, how masculine discourses affect everyday work.
Administrators’ professional learning via Twitter: the dissonance between beliefs and actions
Authors: Cho Vincent
Published: April 2016

Purpose

Although there has been increasing optimism about the potential for social media platforms such as Twitter to support educators’ professional learning, it is yet unclear whether such promises hold true. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to explore school administrators’ use of Twitter for professional learning.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative case study draws data collected from 17 school administrators from throughout the United States and Canada. In addition to individual, semi-structured interviews, administrators’ tweets were collected for two weeks. This resulted in 1460 tweets. Analyses were aimed at perceptions about Twitter, the knowledge shared, and its impact on practice.

Findings

Findings presented a paradox: although administrators were enthusiastic about the social and professional benefits associated with Twitter, they did not share or apply much knowledge commonly associated with administrator work. Topically, administrators’ tweets tended to focus on technology, rather than other leadership issues. Also, administrators’ informal tweets focused on norms and relationships in the online community, rather than other dimensions to leadership craft. What’s more, leaders were rarely able to point to direct changes in their school policies or practices resulting from Twitter.

Research limitations/implications

The present study raises issues for future research, including: How do administrators evaluate the expertise of peers or other resources online? How do leaders negotiate conflict or dialogue online? How might leaders leverage social media as public relations tools?

Practical implications

Whereas popular media have described the benefits of platforms like Twitter in broad strokes, the present study provides a detailed account of the practitioner experience. This account includes not only descriptions of what leaders might (or might not) be learning via Twitter, but also some of the benefits of being able to socialize with colleagues online.

Originality/value

As social media use has grown, so has interest in using such platforms for professional learning. However, there is a gap in knowledge regarding the strengths and shortfalls facing administrators. This study breaks new ground by comparing Twitter's purported benefits to user's tweets and outcomes.
An investigation of microstructure and properties of Sn3.0Ag0.5Cu-XAl2O3 composite solder
Authors: Chen Guang , Huang Bomin , Liu Hui , Chan Y.C. , Tang Zirong , Wu Fengshun
Published: April 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate microstructure and properties of Sn3.0Ag0.5Cu-XAl2O3 composite solder which were prepared through powder metallurgy route.

Design/methodology/approach

Sn3.0Ag0.5Cu (SAC305)-XAl2O3 (X = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8 Wt. %) composite solders were prepared through the powder metallurgy route. The morphology of composite solder powders which consists of Al2O3 particles and SAC solder powders after ball milling was observed. The retained ratio of Al2O3 nanoparticles in composite solder billets and solder joints were also quantitatively measured. Furthermore, the as-prepared composite solder alloys were studied extensively with regard to their microstructures, thermal property, wettability and mechanical properties.

Findings

After ball milling, the Al2O3 nanoparticles added were observed embedded into the surface of SAC solder powders. Only about 5-10 per cent of the initial Al2O3 nanoparticles added were detected in the composite solder joints after reflow. In addition, finer ß-Sn grains were achieved with addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles; the Al2O3 nanoparticles were found retained in the composite solder matrix. Besides, negligible changes in melting temperature and the considerably reduced undercooling were obtained in composite solder alloys. Wettability was improved by appropriate addition of Al2O3 nanoparticles. Microhardness and shear strength of composite solders were both improved after Al2O3 nanoparticles addition.

Originality/value

This paper indicated that powder metallurgy route offered a feasible approach to produce nanoparticle reinforced composite solder. In addition, the quantitative analysis of the actual retained ratio of the Al2O3 nanoparticles in solder joints provided practical implications for the manufacture of composite solders.
Factors influencing women entrepreneurs’ performance in SMEs
Authors: Hasan Fatima S.M.A , Almubarak Muneer Mohammed Saeed
Published: April 2016

Purpose

This paper aims at contributing to the entrepreneurship literature by identifying factors influencing women entrepreneurs’ performance and the corresponding challenges in small and medium enterprises (SMEs). The study also examines the opportunity recognition as a mediator between influencing factors and performance of women entrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

The study proposes a model that shows the effects of different internal and external factors on women entrepreneurs’ performance.

Findings

The paper demonstrates several challenges that are encountered by women entrepreneurs such as lack of access to financial resources, difficulty in finding qualified labors, work-home conflict and low profit. The results suggest that the most influencing factor is industry (SMEs) characteristics followed by entrepreneurial goals and motivations, and legal factors. Additionally, opportunity recognition is found to mediate entrepreneurial goals and motivations, and industry characteristics.

Research limitations/implications

As the study is conducted in Bahrain, it may lack generalization. In future research, it is advisable to expand study factors, use interviews as a research tool and make comparison between women and men entrepreneurial performances.

Practical implications

The paper can help increase women entrepreneurs’ performance and enable them to make use of the business environment in a more efficient and effective way.

Originality/value

Although several papers already exist that discuss issues on women entrepreneurs, there has been little research focusing on factors influencing and challenges facing women entrepreneurs, particularly in the Middle East. Our study explores important issues and calls for more research in this domain.