bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular safety of glucose‐lowering agents as add‐on medication to metformin treatment in type 2 diabetes: report from the Swedish National Diabetes Register
Authors: Ekström Nils , Svensson Ann‐Marie , Miftaraj Mervete , Franzén Stefan , Zethelius Björn , Eliasson Björn , Gudbjörnsdottir Soffia
Published: June 2016

Aim

To investigate the relative safety of various glucose‐lowering agents as add‐on medication to metformin in type 2 diabetes in an observational study linking five national health registers.

Research design and methods

Patients with type 2 diabetes who had been on metformin monotherapy and started another agent in addition to metformin were eligible for inclusion. The study period was 2005‐2012. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD), coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke and congestive heart failure (CHF) were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models, weighted for a propensity score.

Results

Of the 20 422 patients included in the study, 43% started on second‐line treatment with sulphonylurea (SU), 21% basal insulin, 12% thiazolidinedione (TZD), 11% meglitinide, 10% dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor, 1% glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) receptor agonist and 1% acarbose. At the index date, the mean patient age was ~60 years for all groups except the GLP‐1 receptor agonist (56.0 years) and SU (62.9 years) groups. Diabetes duration and glycated haemoglobin levels were similar in all groups. When compared with SU, basal insulin was associated with an 18% higher risk and TZD with a 24% lower risk of mortality [HR 1.18 (95% CI 1.03‐1.36) and 0.76 (95% CI 0.62‐0.94)], respectively. DPP‐4 inhibitor treatment was associated with significantly lower risks of CVD, fatal CVD, CHD, fatal CHD and CHF.

Conclusions

This nationwide observational study showed that second‐line treatment with TZD and DPP‐4 inhibitor as add‐on medication to metformin were associated with significantly lower risks of mortality and cardiovascular events compared with SU, whereas basal insulin was associated with a higher risk of mortality.
Caste differentiation pathways in the Neotropical termite Silvestritermes euamignathus (Isoptera: Termitidae)
Authors: Haifig Ives , Costa‐Leonardo Ana Maria
Published: June 2016

Termites are hemimetabolous insects that commonly exhibit a bifurcation in post‐embryonic development, with the presence of two lines: (i) the nymphal–imaginal line; and (ii) the apterous line. The former comprises the reproductive imagoes of the colonies and their preceding immature stages, whereas the latter is composed of workers, soldiers and their precursors. In this study, we analyzed the developmental pathways of caste differentiation in the Neotropical termite Silvestritermes euamignathus and compared it to the known sibling species, Silvestritermes holmgreni. Our results show that the apterous line is composed of male and female workers without sexual dimorphism and that soldiers are exclusively females. The imaginal line comprises five instars of nymphs, which may develop into either nymphoid neotenics or alates. Similarities found in our study between caste patterns of S. euamignathus and of S. holmgreni suggest a shared evolutionary history in these termite species. Some biological differences between the species are also discussed.
GENDER, POLITICS, AND VIOLENCE IN FRANZ GRILLPARZER'S DIE JÜDIN VON TOLEDO1
Authors: McCarthy‐Rechowicz Matthew
Published: June 2016

This paper examines the gender dynamics in Franz Grillparzer's drama Die Jüdin von Toledo. Comparing this drama with Grillparzer's analysis of gender in Shakespeare's Macbeth, I argue that Die Jüdin von Toledo demonstrates the author's ability to conceive of gender in a complex manner, a trait which is absent from much of his private writing. Furthermore, on the basis of the dichotomy of male action and female intent which Grillparzer sees in Macbeth, I analyse Eleonore's agency in the drama, and ask whether it is possible that Grillparzer subverts the supposed gendered dichotomy by having this female character play an active role in the murder of Rahel, her rival.

Dieser Artikel befasst sich mit der Darstellung von Gender in Franz Grillparzers Drama Die Jüdin von Toledo. Anhand eines Vergleichs mit Grillparzers Analyse von Shakespeares Macbeth stelle ich die These auf, dass Grillparzers Drama dessen Fähigkeit beweist, sich mit Gender‐Fragen in komplexer Weise zu befassen. Darüber hinaus, in Anlehnung an die Dichotomie von männlicher Aktion und weiblichem Entschluss, die Grillparzer in Macbeth sieht, analysiere ich Eleonores Handlungsfähigkeit im Drama, und frage, ob Grillparzer diese seines Erachtens auf Geschlecht basierende Dichotomie unterminiert, indem diese weibliche Figur eine aktive Rolle am Mord von Rahel, ihrer Rivalin, spielt.
‘EIN LAND DER ANWESENDEN’: DOROTHEE ELMIGER'S POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT WITH SWITZERLAND
Authors: Robinson Alan
Published: June 2016

The fiction of Dorothee Elmiger combines formal experimentation with political engagement. Her first novel, Einladung an die Waghalsigen (2010), depicts an isolated, stagnant territory which, as in the parables of Max Frisch or Friedrich Dürrenmatt, stands at an allegorical remove from Switzerland. By contrast, the formally starker and thematically bleaker Schlafgänger (2014) engages with disturbing conditions in actual places within or in relation to a Switzerland which is clearly inseparable from the rest of the world. Elmiger's representation of a transnationally connected, porous Switzerland can be interpreted as a response to the recent political swing to the right and to escalating controversies about migration, asylum seekers and foreign policy, and located within the literary discourse of ‘critical patriotism’. In opposing the exclusionist insularity of the ‘Schweizerische Volkspartei’ (SVP), which remains rooted in the popular convictions and propaganda symbols of the Second World War, Elmiger envisages a pluralistic, inclusive country. This imagined community is evoked through an innovative form which has evolved from Elmiger's experimental text, ‘Die Anwesenden’: in polyphonic collaboration, her characters voice an emergent, collective consciousness that registers subtle shifts in sensibility and public discourses and explores complex issues of collective responsibility, complicity or guilt.

Dorothee Elmigers Romane verbinden formale Experimentierfreude mit politischem Engagement. Ihr erster Roman, Einladung an die Waghalsigen (2010), erzählt von einem stillgelegten, erstarrten ‘Gebiet’, das wie in den Parabeln von Max Frisch und Friedrich Dürrenmatt in einer allegorischen Distanz zur Schweiz steht. Schlafgänger (2014) hingegen ist sowohl formal radikaler als auch thematisch düsterer und handelt von harten Gegebenheiten in realen Städten, die in einer global vernetzten Schweiz liegen oder Verbindungen zu ihr aufweisen. Elmigers Vorstellung von einer transnationalen, porösen Schweiz wird hier als Antwort auf den politischen Rechtsrutsch und die zunehmenden Kontroversen über Masseneinwanderung, Asylsuchende und Aussenpolitik der letzten Jahre gedeutet und in den literarischen Diskurs des ‘kritischen Patriotismus’ eingeordnet. Als Gegenbild zum abgrenzenden Isolationismus der ‘Schweizerischen Volkspartei’ (SVP), die im Reduit‐Denken und der Igelmentalität der ‘geistigen Landesverteidigung’ verhaftet bleibt, entwickelt Elmiger die Vision eines pluralistischen, inklusiven Landes. Diese imaginierte Gemeinschaft wird durch eine innovative Form evoziert, die aus Elmigers experimentellem Kurztext ‘Die Anwesenden’ herausgewachsen ist: Im Zusammenspiel ihrer sich abwechselnden Stimmen tragen die Figuren zum Entstehungsprozess eines kollektiven Bewusstseins bei, das in der Lage ist, subtile Verschiebungen im subjektiven Empfinden und in öffentlichen Diskursen zu registrieren und heikle Fragen von kollektiver Verantwortung, Komplizenschaft und Schuld auszuloten.
WIE BESTIMMT SICH WIDERSTAND? INTERVIEW MIT ILIJA TROJANOW
Authors: Dernbach Rafael
Published: June 2016

Wie lässt sich von Widerstand erzählen? In welchen Geschichten manifestiert er sich? Ilija Trojanow hat die Arbeit an diesen Fragen in Essays und Romanen zu einer einflussreichen Stimme der zeitgenössischen deutschsprachigen Literatur gemacht. Im vorliegenden Gespräch entwickelt Trojanow eine Theorie des Widerstands, die die Ausführungen in seinem bisherigen Werk ergänzt und weiter zuspitzt. Widerstand ist für Trojanow sowohl Praxis als auch Haltung, sowohl anthropologische Konstante als auch Tradition. Ausgangspunkt des Interviews ist Trojanows kürzlich erschienener Roman Macht und Widerstand. Das Buch beschreibt die ersten Jahre nach dem Fall des kommunistischen Schiwkow‐Regimes in Bulgarien. Es ist der Versuch einer ersten Aufarbeitung der postkommunistischen 90er Jahre und eine Analyse der vielschichtigen Konstellationen von Macht und Widerstand dieser Zeit.

How can resistance be represented? And how does it manifest itself in stories? Ilija Trojanow has become an influential voice in contemporary German literature through his work on these questions in essays and novels. In this interview Trojanow develops a theory of resistance that complements and further articulates ideas in his oeuvre so far. Trojanow understands resistance as both an attitude and a practice. It is as much an anthropological constant as it is tradition. Trojanow's recently published novel Macht und Widerstand is the starting point for the conversation. The book describes the first years after the fall of the communist Zhivkov regime in Bulgaria. It is a first attempt to come to terms with the post‐communist 1990s and an analysis of the manifold constellations of power and resistance of that time.
Structure and Microwave Dielectric Behavior of A‐Site‐Doped Sr(1−1.5x)CexTiO3 Ceramics System
Authors: Ullah Burhan , Lei Wen , Cao Qing‐Song , Zou Zheng‐Yu , Lan Xue‐Kai , Wang Xiao‐Hong , Lu Wen‐Zhong
Published: June 2016

The ion valence state, phase composition, microstructure, and microwave dielectric properties of Sr(1−1.5x)CexTiO3 (x = 0.1–0.67, SCT) ceramics were systematically investigated. Sr(1−1.5x)CexTiO3 ceramics were produced with gradual structural evolution from a cubic to a tetragonal and turned to an orthorhombic structure in the range of 0.1 ≤ x ≤ 0.67. Above a critical Ce proportion (x = 0.4), microstructural changes and normal grain growth initially occurred. On the basis of chemical analysis results, the reduction of Ti4+ ions was hastened by tetravalent ions (Ce4+). By contrast, this reduction was inhibited by trivalent ions (Ce3+). The observed dielectric behavior was strongly influenced by phase composition, oxygen vacancies (), and defect dipoles, namely, () and (). Temperature stable ceramics sintered at 1350°C for 3 h in air yielded an intermediate value of dielectric constant (εr = 40), with the smallest reported value of temperature coefficient of resonant frequency (τf = +0.9 ppm/°C), and quality factor (Q × f = 5699 GHz) at x = 0.6.
Closed venereology wards in the GDR
Authors: Schochow M. , Steger F.
Published: June 2016

Background

At least 10 closed venereology wards existed in the GDR. To this date, the history of these wards has not yet been investigated thoroughly.

Objective

The history of the closed venereology wards in the GDR will be reconstructed by taking those in Halle (Saale) and Leipzig‐Thonberg as examples. At the centre of the examination are the daily routines, the medical treatment and the education of the women.

Methods

Extensive archival research was conducted and the historical sources were critically evaluated. Moreover, interviews were held with women who had been admitted against their will as well as with former physicians, nurses and administrative staff members of the closed venereology wards.

Results

In most cases, the women were taken at random and admitted to the closed venereology wards by the police. They were not informed about the purpose, type and possible side‐effects of their medical treatment. It was performed without their consent and therefore constituted a violation of their physical integrity. Even though 70% of the women had not been diagnosed with a sexually transmitted disease (STD), all of them had to undergo a gynaecological examination on a daily basis. The daily routine was strict, and the women were kept under surveillance. The wards had the ‘educative’ goal of transforming the women into ‘socialist personalities’.

Conclusion

The women in the closed venereology wards fell victim to politicized medicine. Put differently, medical care was supplemented with educational intentions and concepts, the purpose of which was to transform ‘suffering persons’ into ‘socialist personalities’. This disciplinary system was based on terror. The closed venereology wards were not all alike; in some wards the women had to carry out chores on a daily basis (Halle/Saale), while in other wards they were detained and isolated from the outside world (Leipzig‐Thonberg).
Freshwater fishes of Patagonia: conservation and fisheries
Authors: Cussac V. E. , Habit E. , Ciancio J. , Battini M. A. , Riva Rossi C. , Barriga J. P. , Baigún C. , Crichigno S.
Published: June 2016

The absence of much literature on the Patagonian fish fauna in comparison with that of the neotropics, has previously been blamed on its poor species diversity. Knowledge of the fishes of Patagonia, however, rose sharply at the beginning of the present century, allowing for an understanding of the complex biogeographical history that has led to the present diversity and distribution patterns. There are several new and potential threats to biodiversity and conservation of Patagonian fishes, such as the introduction of exotic species, damming, climate change and changes geared to safeguard economic interests, often acting synergistically. A great amount of new information is now available and the aim of the present review is to articulate this knowledge in a comprehensive way in order to aid in the development of tools to face the increasing challenges posed by environmental change and human activity. Knowledge about fishes of Patagonia has grown at the same time as human actions, and presence.
Firm Type, Feed‐in Tariff, and Wind Energy Investment in Germany: An Investigation of Decision Making Factors of Energy Producers Regarding Investing in Wind Energy Capacity
Authors: Werner Lone , Scholtens Bert
Published: June 2016

The development of renewable and sustainable energy is advanced by public financial support. This is particularly so in the German Energiewende, which seeks to replace nuclear and fossil electricity generation with wind, sun, and biomass. We study the impact of the (changes in the) feed‐in tariff (FIT) policy on the investment in wind electricity generation capacity in Germany in the period 2000–2014. We estimate a generic investment model that includes this support mechanism, the cost of capital, investment risks such as wind and price volatility, and manufacturing costs. We discuss specific features for different types of wind energy investors, such as the incumbents, small private investors, diversified companies, and independent power producers. We find that a change in the FIT has a negative impact on investment capacity regarding the generation of wind energy: A one monetary unit increase in the variation of the tariff is to be associated with a decrease by 0.17 megawatts of wind capacity installed. We argue that it is policy uncertainty that makes investors shy away from making real investments. We also argue that the drivers for wind energy investment can differ along different types of firms. For the traditional power producers, especially electricity price volatility, construction costs, and carbon prices seem to matter. But for the other investor types, the FIT is crucial indeed.
A Cost–Benefit Analysis of a Family Systems Intervention for Managing Pediatric Chronic Illness
Authors: Distelberg Brian J. , Emerson Natacha D. , Gavaza Paul , Tapanes Daniel , Brown Whitney N. , Shah Huma , Williams‐Reade Jacqueline , Montgomery Susanne
Published: June 2016

Despite recent increases of psychosocial programs for pediatric chronic illness, few studies have explored their economic benefits. This study investigated the costs–benefits of a family systems‐based, psychosocial intervention for pediatric chronic illness (MEND: Mastering Each New Direction). A quasi‐prospective study compared the 12‐month pre–post direct and indirect costs of 20 families. The total cost for program was estimated to $5,320. Families incurred $15,249 less in direct and $15,627 less in indirect costs after MEND. On average, medical expenses reduced by 86% in direct and indirect costs, for a cost–benefit ratio of 0.17. Therefore, for every dollar spent on the program, families and their third payers saved approximately $5.74. Implications for healthcare policy and reimbursements are discussed.
Most and Least Meaningful Learning Experiences in Marriage and Family Therapy Education
Authors: Piercy Fred P. , Earl Ryan M. , Aldrich Renu K. , Nguyen Hoa N. , Steelman Sarah M. , Haugen Emily , Riger Dana , Tsokodayi Ruvi T. , West Jamie , Keskin Yesim , Gary Emily
Published: June 2016

Marriage and family therapy educators increasingly emphasize training competencies. What we know less about is what makes family therapy education meaningful to marriage and family therapy (MFT) graduate students and what does not. In this study, through an Internet survey, we explored the most and least meaningful learning experiences of 68 MFT graduate students and recent graduates of Commission on Accreditation for Marriage and Family Therapy Education—accredited programs. We used thematic analysis to identify and illustrate resulting themes, which included the importance of experiential and personal components to learning, the professor‐student alliance, tying theory to practice, and the experiences of students with their clients, among others. We discuss the implications of these findings to support family therapy education and offer tentative suggestions for formative discussions both within and across programs.

Video Abstract is found in the online version of the article.
Serum micronutrients and prealbumin during development and recovery of chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Velasco Roser , Santos Cristina , Soler Gemma , Gil‐Gil Miguel , Pernas Sonia , Galan Maica , Palmero Ramon , Bruna Jordi
Published: June 2016

Chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a frequent adverse event. Nutritional status can become impaired in cancer patients, potentially contributing to neuropathy's evolution. Our aim was to evaluate serum micronutrients and prealbumin in a cohort of 113 solid‐cancer patients receiving platinum and taxane compounds during the development and recovery of neuropathy, up to 1 year after finishing treatment. CIPN was graded according to Total Neuropathy Score© and NCI.CTCv3 at T0 (baseline), T1 (1–3 months), and T12 (12 months) after chemotherapy. CIPN was classified as asymptomatic (< grade 2) or symptomatic (≥2). CIPN recovery was defined as ≥1 grade improvement at T12. Symptomatic CIPN developed in 52% of patients. Symptomatic patients presented a higher increase in TNSc (p < 0.001), in TNSr© (p < 0.001), and decrease in sural (p < 0.001) and radial nerve conduction (p < 0.001). No significant differences with any of the micronutrients were observed along T0‐T1 period between severity or chemotherapy groups. By T12, symptomatic patients without recovery had a decrease in vitamin E levels (p = 0.019) and prealbumin (p = 0.062) compared with those symptomatic that improved. A correlation between the variation of vitamin E and prealbumin at T0‐T1 (r = 0.626, p = 0.001) and T1‐T12 (r = 0.411, p = 0.06) was observed. After chemotherapy treatment, the improvement of patients displaying symptomatic neuropathy is related to vitamin E and prealbumin serum levels. Our results suggest that nutritional status can play a role in CIPN recovery.
Comparison of Outcomes after Device Closure with Transseptal Puncture and Standard Technique in Patients with Patent Foramen Ovale and Ischemic Events
Authors: Moon Jeonggeun , Kang Woong Chol , Kim Sihoon , Kim Myeong Gun , Oh Pyung Chun , Park Yae Min , Chung Wook‐Jin , Choi Deok Young , Lee Ji Yeon , Lee Yeong‐Bae , Hwang Hee Young , Ahn Taehoon
Published: June 2016

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of device closure with the transseptal puncture and standard technique in patients with patent foramen ovale (PFO) and ischemic events.

Methods

Eighty‐two consecutive patients (men: 60 patients, mean age: 45.2 years) who underwent PFO closure with the Amplatzer PFO Occluder were enrolled. PFO closure with the transseptal puncture was performed in 22 patients (transseptal puncture technique, group I). In the remaining patients (n = 60), PFO closure was performed with the standard technique (group II). The co‐primary end points were the incidence of significant residual shunt on follow‐up transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) and a composite of death, stroke, transient ischemic attack (TIA), and peripheral embolism.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar between the two groups. On TEE, despite similar grade of interatrial right‐to‐left shunt, shunt at rest/septal hypermobility was less common in group I than in group II (40.9% vs. 72.9%, P < 0.010). The device was successfully implanted in all patients. On follow‐up TEE, significant residual shunt was more common in group I than in group II (28.6% vs. 4.3%, P = 0.021). In addition, composite of death, stroke, TIA, or peripheral embolism was more common in group I than in group II (13.6% vs. 0%, P = 0.017) during the follow‐up period (mean 25.4 months).

Conclusion

Compared to the standard technique, PFO closure with the transseptal puncture technique showed higher incidence of residual shunt and ischemic events. Therefore, this technique might be considered in only highly selected patients as the last option.
FISHing for gutta‐percha‐adhered biofilms in purulent post‐treatment apical periodontitis
Authors: Zehnder M. , Rechenberg D.‐K. , Thurnheer T. , Lüthi‐Schaller H. , Belibasakis G.N.
Published: June 2016

This study investigated the possibility of depicting individual taxa in clinically relevant biofilms using fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). Gutta‐percha samples were collected from the apical aspect of root canals associated with a chronic apical abscess (test samples, n = 8). Corresponding control samples were obtained from previously filled root canals with apparently normal periapical tissues (n = 3). The transport medium was investigated for detached biofilm fragments using FISH staining and conventional epifluorescence microscopy. Gutta‐percha samples were stained by multiplex FISH, and inspected using confocal laser scanning microscopy. FISH of the transport medium confirmed the presence of the main species formerly identified by conventional methods in post‐treatment purulent endodontic infections, most prominently Fusobacterium spp., Bacteroidetes and Prevotellaceae. Treponemes were identified in five of eight cases associated with purulent infections, but Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus spp. were not identified. The biofilms on gutta‐percha from root canals associated with apical periodontitis showed dense aggregates of variable composition. Control samples contained few, if any, bacteria in the transport medium, and featured no biofilms on the respective gutta‐percha specimens. The current study revealed some direct, visual in situ information on the nature of biofilms associated with purulent periapical infections in man.
Koebner's Phenomenon in Childhood Henoch‐Schönlein Purpura: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Sharma Shreya , Chandrasekaran Venkatesh , Krishnamurthy Sriram , Mekala Suresh , Mahadevan Subramanian
Published: June 2016

Koebner's phenomenon occurs rarely in connection with Henoch‐Schönlein purpura (HSP). We report two children with HSP who developed Koebner's phenomenon on the second day after the onset of rash. The first was an 11‐year‐old girl with rheumatic heart disease who presented with abdominal pain for 1 month and subsequently developed rash and nephritis. The second patient was a 7‐year‐old girl who presented with rash and polyarthritis. To the best of our knowledge, Koebner's phenomenon in childhood HSP has not been reported.
Parent Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) in screening: The Thai experience
Authors: Chunsuwan Issarapa , Hansakunachai Tippawan , Pornsamrit Suntaree
Published: June 2016

Background

Parent Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) is a feasible developmental screening tool but it is not commonly used in Thailand. To examine the potential of PEDS as a screening tool, PEDS was implemented in well‐child visits to identify the prevalence of developmental problems, characteristic parental concerns and comments, and to compare it with pediatrician developmental evaluation using Parent Evaluation of Developmental Status: Developmental Milestones, assessment level (PEDS: DM‐AL).

Methods

Participants were 266 children at the 9, 18 and 30 month health checkups as well as their parents. The PEDS questionnaire (Thai version) was first used for parents, and then the children were evaluated by pediatricians using PEDS: DM‐AL.

Results

Using PEDS, 12% and 34% of children were classified as high and moderate risk for developmental and social–emotion disorders. The most common concerns were behavioral problems, social–emotion problems and expressive language. On PEDS: DM‐AL, 24% of children had delay in at least one domain of development. When PEDS screening was compared with PEDS: DM‐AL, being in the PEDS high‐risk group had 27.7% sensitivity and 93.0% specificity. If being in the moderate or high‐risk group was used instead, the sensitivity was enhanced to 67.7%, with 60.7% specificity.

Conclusions

Implementation of PEDS in well‐child visits could enhance early detection of developmental problems, but many Thai parents were unable to mention their concerns about delayed abilities in the correct PEDS question. Therefore, to ensure higher sensitivity, criteria for referral should be adjusted and a second stage developmental evaluation may be incorporated with PEDS.
The Materiality of Assyrian Sacred Kingship
Authors: Thomason Allison
Published: June 2016

This contribution explores the material manifestations of Assyrian kingship and how they intersected with Assyrian ideology and religion. This state‐of‐the‐field discussion focuses on the Neo‐Assyrian period, 883–612 BCE. To legitimate their positions as the god Aššur's chosen delegate, the kings produced and consumed a vast array of monumental and portable goods, which served to represent the kings as beneficent creators of an orderly realm and protectors of the Assyrian world keeping chaos at bay.
Global Engagement, Complex Tasks and the Distribution of Occupational Employment
Authors: Davidson Carl , Heyman Fredrik , Matusz Steven , Sjöholm Fredrik , Chun Zhu Susan
Published: June 2016

We construct a task‐based model of the firm's choice of occupational inputs to examine how that choice varies with greater global engagement. We assume that more complex tasks are more costly to complete. Within the structure of our model, firms skew employment toward occupations engaged in more complex tasks. Moreover, the distribution of employment is more skewed for more globalized firms, while it is less skewed for larger firms. These results are consistent with our previous empirical finding.
Three‐dimensional imaging for volume measurement of hypertrophic and keloid scars, reliability of a previously validated simplified technique in clinical setting
Authors: Verhiel S. H. W. L. , Piatkowski de Grzymala A. A. , Van den Kerckhove E. , Colla C. , van der Hulst R. R. W. J.
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Evidence behind many of the current treatments in hypertrophic and keloid scars remains limited. Current objective methods to assess efficacy and provide follow‐up can be complex and are not easily applied in clinical setting. The aim of this study was to assess reliability of a recently validated simplified technique for volume measurement in clinical practice.

Methods

Volume measurement of 28 hypertrophic and keloid scars was conducted in 22 consecutive patients, using a three‐dimensional stereophotogrammetry. Intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability was assessed by the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the coefficient of variation (CV). The measurement error was expressed as limits of agreement (LoA).

Results

The simplified method for three‐dimensional volume measurement showed good intra‐rater reliability with an ICC of 0.997 and a CV of 7.3%, and a good inter‐rater reliability with an ICC of 0.999 and a CV of 5.7%. The plot of the differences and LoA showed near‐perfect agreement between observers.

Conclusion

Objective evaluation of scar volume using the simplified three‐dimensional measurement technique may complement subjective scoring and improve the ability to quantitatively compare the response to therapeutic methods.
A molecular phylogeny of marine amphipods in the herbivorous family Ampithoidae
Authors: Sotka Erik E. , Bell Tina , Hughes Lauren E. , Lowry James K. , Poore Alistair G. B.
Published: June 2016

Ampithoid amphipods dominate invertebrate assemblages associated with shallow‐water macroalgae and seagrasses worldwide and represent the most species‐rich family of herbivorous amphipod known. To generate the first molecular phylogeny of this family, we sequenced 35 species from 10 genera at two mitochondrial genes [the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and the large subunit of 16 s (LSU)] and two nuclear loci [sodium–potassium ATPase (NAK) and elongation factor 1‐alpha (EF1)], for a total of 1453 base pairs. All 10 genera are embedded within an apparently monophyletic Ampithoidae (Amphitholina, Ampithoe, Biancolina, Cymadusa, Exampithoe, Paragrubia, Peramphithoe, Pleonexes, Plumithoe, Pseudoamphithoides and Sunamphitoe). Biancolina was previously placed within its own superfamily in another suborder. Within the family, single‐locus trees were generally poor at resolving relationships among genera. Combined‐locus trees were better at resolving deeper nodes, but complete resolution will require greater taxon sampling of ampithoids and closely related outgroup species, and more molecular characters. Despite these difficulties, our data generally support the monophyly of Ampithoidae, novel evolutionary relationships among genera, several currently accepted genera that will require revisions via alpha taxonomy and the presence of cryptic species.
Gloreha—Hand Robotic Rehabilitation: Design, Mechanical Model, and Experiments
Authors: Borboni Alberto , Mor Maurizio , Faglia Rodolfo
Published: June 2016

Stroke patients are often affected by hand impairment. Literature shows different experiences of robotic rehabilitation that is able to prove an intensive and effective therapy. A preliminary analysis of the state of the art evidenced lacks in hand robotic rehabilitation devices. Thus, this work proposes a new rehabilitation device for hand rehabilitation based on a compliant transmission. The mechanical power generator is not on the hand to reduce the weight of the device. The mechanical model of the system is descripted. Experimental results on 126 stroke patients evidenced the efficacy of this device
Feasibility Study of an Energy Storage System for Distributed Generation System in Islanding Mode
Authors: Upendra Roy B. P. , Rengarajan N.
Published: June 2016

Distributed energy systems are gaining widespread popularity in recent times as they are capable of generating power with a minimum running cost. They are also highly effective since they are located close to the load which reduces the transmission losses to a significant extent. Energy starved countries have opened up business opportunities to industries which can generate electricity and export them to the grid. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the economic feasibility of using a compressed air energy storage (CAES) system for distributed generation sources or captive power plants when it operates in islanded mode. This paper presents the application of CAES system as a viable energy storage method to be used as a dump load when the source operates in islanded mode. Based on the data of a sample case, cost analysis is being carried out to ensure the economic feasibility of implementing such a system for a captive power plant. The detailed cost analysis for implementing such a system is presented together with a simple methodology to be followed for selecting a compressor. Implementing an energy storage system always improves the performance of the system as it is capable of smoothing out the fluctuations. For plants which are exporting power to the grid, it also improves the operating profit of the plant by acting as a buffer in situations when there are minor disturbances in the grid and the plant is forced to operate in islanded mode. The sample case study is being done for the possible application and implementation of the suggested energy storage system, and the findings show that even though the initial cost of such a system is on the higher side, it can be helpful in the long run. The proposed system will be helpful to supply peak loads and also increases the profit of such sources who export power to the grid. The proposed system is applicable only to sources which are connected to the grid and it works well only when there is a sustained period of operation in islanded mode.
Stray Current Corrosion Assessment of Utility Pipes
Authors: Memon Saud , Fromme Paul
Published: June 2016

Stray current corrosion will occur at each point where the current transfers from a metallic conductor (such as structural reinforcement) to the electrolyte (i.e, the soil or concrete). Hence stray current leakage can cause corrosion damage to the rails, railway metallic structures, utility pipelines in the soil and any other low resistance metal buried in the vicinity. The hazard posed by stray current is not confined to structures that are within the vicinity of the railway. Stray currents can flow considerable distances (particularly in soils of low resistivity) and can therefore cause corrosion damage to what may be considered remote structures. This paper presents the importance of corrosion control on utility pipes and then presents and evaluates potential metal loss using arithmetic equations and basic modeling.
Evaluating Fouled Ballast Using Seismic Surface Waves
Authors: Stark Timothy D. , Wilk Stephen T. , Thompson Hugh B. , Sussmann Theodore R. , Baker Mark , Ho Carlton L.
Published: June 2016

This paper presents the equipment and Spectral Analysis of Surface Wave (SASW) approach for non-invasively characterizing railroad track ballast and foundation layers. Surface wave testing on a railroad track is more complicated than that on soil sites or pavements because of the presence of ballast, crossties, and rails as well as the complexity of ballast-soil foundation structure in terms of the variation of shear-wave velocity with depth. Using portable SASW equipment, the Young’s Modulus of the ballast was calculated for both clean and fouled ballast in wet and dry conditions. In addition, the local modulus is determined at different locations under the tie, e.g. tie center or edge, to investigate modulus variation and tie support under a single tie. Expansion of the system to measure the modulus under two adjacent ties is also discussed and may be suitable for evaluating ballast performance under §213.103, which requires ballast to perform the following serviceability functions: (1) transmit and distribute the load of the track and railroad rolling equipment to the subgrade; (2) restrain the track laterally, longitudinally, and vertically under dynamic loads imposed by railroad rolling equipment and thermal stresses exerted by the rail; (3) provide adequate drainage for the track; and (4) maintain proper track crosslevel, surface, and alignment”.
Thermal Stress Measurement in Continuous Welded Rails Using the Hole-Drilling Method
Authors: Zhu Xuan , Lanza di Scalea Francesco , Fateh Mahmood
Published: June 2016

Continuous Welded Rail (CWR) has been widely used in modern railway system for it provides smooth ride, higher freight speed, and less maintenance. A major safety concern with this type of structure is the absence of the expansion joints and the potential of buckling in hot weather. According to the FRA safety statistics, the track alignment irregularity is one of the leading factors responsible for the accidents and the most economic/environmental damages, among all the railway accident causes. However, the thermal stress measurement in the CWR for buckling prevention has been an unresolved problem in railroad maintenance.

In this study, a method is introduced to determine the in-situ thermal stress of the in-service CWR by using the Hole-Drilling method. The ASTM Hole-Drilling test procedure, as one type of stress relaxation methods, was originally developed to measure the in-plane residual stresses close to the specimen surfaces. The residual stresses are typically computed based on the relieved strains with the calibration coefficients. Inspired by the stress relaxation philosophy, an investigation on the thermal stress measurement of the CWR using the Hole-Drilling test procedure is conducted in this paper. First, the feasibility of using the Hole-Drilling method of the thermal stress measurement is examined via a 3-D finite element model. The stress relaxation computed from the Hole-Drilling test is compared with the applied uniaxial thermal stress. To facilitate the implementation on the CWR, a new set of calibration coefficients with finer depth increment is computed with a novel three-dimensional finite element model for more realistic simulation. The updated coefficients are experimentally validated with an aluminum column specimen under uniaxial load. For the experimental studies, a roadside prototype is developed and two sets of tests are carried out on free-to-expand rail tracks and on rails subjected to controlled thermal loads at UCSD Powell Laboratories. The relieved stresses are computed using the updated calibration coefficients, and a linear relationship between the axial and vertical residual stresses at the neutral axis is observed for both 136RE and 141RE rails. Furthermore, the in-situ thermal stresses are estimated with the residual stress compensation and the neutral temperatures are predicted according to linear thermal expansion theory. These tests illustrate that the determination of the thermal stresses by the Hole-Drilling method is in principle possible, once ways are developed to compensate for the residual stress relaxation. One such compensation is proposed in this paper. A statistical interpretation on the proposed method is also given to provide a reference for railroad applications.
Three-Point Contact Study of a Wheelset and Rails
Authors: Fallahi Behrooz , Pan Chao
Published: June 2016

Three-point contact occurs in curving and transfer of a wheelset over switches and turnouts. In this study, an approach is presented that enforces three-point contact between a wheelset and a rail. This is accomplished by placing the wheelset over the track by setting the wheelset position parameters. Then, the location of all common normal are computed. Next, three common normal with shortest length are used to set up the non-penetrating constraint equations in track coordinate system. This led to nine algebraic equations whose Jacobean can be represented by block matrices. A Newton iterate based on these block matrices are used to compute the location of the three contact points. Several numerical examples are presented to verify the accuracy of the approach.
Fouled Ballast Definitions and Parameters
Authors: Bruzek Radim , Stark Timothy D. , Wilk Stephen T. , Thompson Hugh B. , Sussmann Theodore R.
Published: June 2016

Ballast fouling is a problematic track condition that can lead to inadequate ballast performance. Prioritizing remediation of fouled ballast sites is difficult because no relationship between ballast fouling and track performance exists and fouled ballast performance depends on the amount, grain-size, type, plasticity, and moisture content of the fouling material. This paper provides results of an international industry survey on fouled ballast definitions, parameters, limits/standards, and laboratory test results to aid development of a procedure for quantitatively assessing ballast fouling and assessing the ability to: transmit applied train loads to the subgrade, allow drainage, and maintain proper track geometry as required under §213.103.
The Past, Present and Future of High Speed Trains in the U.S.A.
Authors: Scales Brian T.
Published: June 2016

The Paper describes the past, present and future of high speed trains following the passing of the High Speed Ground Transportation Act fifty years ago. In the distant past, electrically-powered Metroliners ran between Washington and New York and Turbo Trains powered by gas turbines ran between Boston and New York on the Northeast Corridor. In the recent past, AEM-7 and HHP-8 electric locomotives supplied by EMD and Alstom respectively for operation with Amfleet railcars also ran on the Northeast Corridor. At the present time, electrically-powered Acela trainsets and ACS-64 electric locomotives supplied by Siemens are in service on the Northeast Corridor. Trains of Horizon and Amfleet railcars hauled by General Electric P-42-DC diesel locomotives operate between Chicago and St. Louis and Chicago and Detroit on the Mid West Regional Rail System. The future consists of two on-going projects that are being implemented, three projects that are in the planning stage and six projects that are in the concept phase. Features to be considered in the design of a high speed train system include: Design Standards and Regulations, Motive Power, Train Configuration, Maximum Axle Load, Dual-Mode Propulsion, Emergency Power, Double Deck Configuration, Jumbo Train Arrangement, Radial Trucks and Hi-Lo Bi-Track System.
Laboratory Evaluation of Fouled Ballast Under Heavy-Axle Load and High Traffic Conditions
Authors: Faghihi Kashani Hamed , Ho Carlton L. , Hyslip James P.
Published: June 2016

Excessively fouled ballast can result a high amount of plastic settlement and reduction of vertical and lateral resistance of the track. A significant portion of railroad maintenance costs is associated with degraded fouled ballast. Therefore, it is important to understand the effects of ballast fouling at different moisture levels on the behavior of ballast under repeated loading conditions. Development of the testing equipment and procedure to better simulate and evaluate the performance of ballast under heavy loading and high traffic conditions can help the railroad industry to better understand the track risk factors.

In this study a modified railroad ballast box test apparatus has been used to evaluate the effect of fouling on the plastic deformation of ballast in different moisture conditions up to 2,500,000 cycles, or the equivalent of 300MGT of heavy axle load traffic. The tests have been conducted under equivalent Heavy-Axle Load (HAL) loading conditions and for ballasts with <5%, 15% and 30% fouling. The tests simulate the gradual elastic and plastic deformation of fouled ballast by increase in repetitive cycles of load from dry condition to saturated condition. This paper presents the design and construction of the ballast box device with initial results of the tests. The results show a clear effect of water content and fouling percentage on the amount and rate of both plastic and elastic deformation in cyclic loading. Also, the factor of safety against track failure has been evaluated in highly fouled ballast at saturated conditions.
Risk Analysis of Freight Train Collisions in the United States, 2000 to 2014
Authors: Wang Yanlei , Xu Shuang , Liu Xiang
Published: June 2016

Train accidents damage infrastructure and rolling stock, disrupt operations, and may result in casualties and environmental damage. While the majority of previous studies focused on the safety risks associated with train derailments or highway-rail grade crossing collisions, much less work has been undertaken to evaluate train collision risk. This paper develops a statistical risk analysis methodology for freight-train collisions in the United States between 2000 and 2014. Negative binomial regression models are developed to estimate the frequency of freight-train collisions as a function of year and traffic volume by accident cause. Train collision severity, measured by the average number of railcars derailed, varied with accident cause. Train collision risk, defined as the product of collision frequency and severity, is predicted for 2015 to 2017, based on the 2000 to 2014 safety trend. The statistical procedures developed in this paper can be adapted to various other types of consequences, such as damage costs or casualties. Ultimately, this paper and its sequent studies aim to provide the railroad industry with data analytic tools to discover useful information from historical accidents so as to make risk-informed safety decisions.
Risk Analysis of Freight-Train Derailment Caused by Track Geometry Defect
Authors: He Jiabo , Ben-Gera Tal , Liu Xiang
Published: June 2016

This paper develops an analytical framework for analyzing freight-train derailment risk due to track geometry failures. First, track geometry degradation is estimated based on a previous study that uses data from one Class I railroad. Then, the frequency of expected number of track-geometry-defect-caused derailment on mainlines is estimated. After that, the derailment severity (measured by the number of railcars derailed) can be predicted based on FRA-reportable track-geometry-failure-caused freight-train derailments. Due to data limitations, several simplifying assumptions were made to illustrate model structure and implementation procedure. The model can be adapted to specific carriers and locations for normative risk management of track geometry defects.
Evaluating the Equivalency Between Track Quality Indices and the Minimum Track Geometry Threshold Exceedances Along a Canadian Freight Railway
Authors: Scanlan Kirk M. , Hendry Michael T. , Martin C. Derek
Published: June 2016

Railway regulators require that track geometry measurements meet a specific set of minimum safety thresholds. A proper interpretation of track geometry survey data is fundamental for the detection of track exceeding these thresholds and in need of corrective maintenance. Irregular track geometry independent of the minimum safety thresholds can also be used as evidence of degradation in the railway foundation. Therefore, multiple evaluation methods must be applied to the track geometry survey data when assessing foundation degradation. In this study, we compare multiple track geometry evaluation methods in order to assess if they equally identify sections of irregular track geometry along a 335 kilometer section of a Canadian freight railway. The track geometry evaluation methods investigated are the Transport Canada Class 5 minimum safety threshold exceedances and three literature-suggested track quality indices; the Overall Track Geometry Index, the Polish J Index and the Swedish Q Index. Furthermore, this study also investigates the ability of the track quality indices to provide additional insight into track geometry variability in sections without a minimum safety threshold exceedance. The track under investigation is not a Class 5, however, Class 5 minimum safety thresholds were used to produce enough threshold exceedances to allow for the comparison to the track quality indices. The results of the analysis reveal that while the large-scale variability in the three track quality indices is similar, the individual equivalency with the occurrence of Class 5 threshold exceedances is highly variable. Furthermore, only the Overall Track Geometry Index demonstrates the potential to provide consistent additional track geometry variability information.