bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
py_convrot: rotation conventions, to understand and to apply
Authors: Urzhumtseva Ludmila , Urzhumtsev Alexandre
Published: July 2019

Rotation is a core crystallographic operation. Two sets of Cartesian coordinates of each point of a rotated object, those before and after rotation, are linearly related, and the coefficients of these linear combinations can be represented in matrix form. This 3 × 3 matrix is unique for all points and thus describes unambiguously a particular rotation. However, its nine elements are mutually dependent and are not interpretable in a straightforward way. To describe rotations by independent and comprehensible parameters, crystallographic software usually refers to Euler or to polar angles. In crystallography and cryo-electron microscopy, there exists a large choice of conventions, making direct comparison of rotation parameters difficult and sometimes confusing. The program py_convrot, written in Python, is a converter of parameters describing rotations. In particular, it deals with all possible choices of polar angles and with all kinds of Euler angles, including all choices of rotation axes and rotation directions. Using a menu, a user can build their own rotation parameterization; its action can be viewed with an interactive graphical tool, Demo. The tables in this article and the extended help pages of the program describe details of these parameterizations and the decomposition of rotation matrices into all types of parameters. The program allows orthogonalization conventions and symmetry operations to be taken into account. This makes the program and its supporting materials both an illustrative teaching material, especially for non-specialists in mathematics and computing, and a tool for practical use.
The competition between cocrystallization and separated crystallization based on crystallization from solution
Authors: Sun Shanhu , Zhang Haobin , Xu Jinjiang , Wang Shumin , Wang Hongfan , Yu Zhihui , Zhao Lang , Zhu Chunhua , Sun Jie
Published: July 2019

The competition between cocrystallization and separated crystallization in a solvent was explored via X-ray diffraction and high-performance liquid chromatography methods in different solvents and by considering the solvent evaporation rate. The results revealed that the solvent system and solvent evaporation rate can affect the nucleation order of the cocrystal and coformers in the solution. In fact, solubility tests in different solvents confirmed that the solubility plays a key role in the cocrystal formation process. Furthermore, the width of the metastable zone influenced the solute nucleation order and was a decisive factor in the cocrystal formation process when the solvent evaporation rate was varied. Cocrystals could therefore be obtained by adjusting the solvents and solvent evaporation rate. The preparation of kinetic 2,4,6,8,10,12-hexanitrohexaazaisowurtzitane–2,4,6-trinitrophenol cocrystals via rapid solvent evaporation proves the practicability of this theory.
A randomized nonmonotone adaptive trust region method based on the simulated annealing strategy for unconstrained optimization
Authors: Babaie-Kafaki Saman , Rezaee Saeed
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to employ stochastic techniques to increase efficiency of the classical algorithms for solving nonlinear optimization problems.

Design/methodology/approach

The well-known simulated annealing strategy is employed to search successive neighborhoods of the classical trust region (TR) algorithm.

Findings

An adaptive formula for computing the TR radius is suggested based on an eigenvalue analysis conducted on the memoryless Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno updating formula. Also, a (heuristic) randomized adaptive TR algorithm is developed for solving unconstrained optimization problems. Results of computational experiments on a set of CUTEr test problems show that the proposed randomization scheme can enhance efficiency of the TR methods.

Practical implications

The algorithm can be effectively used for solving the optimization problems which appear in engineering, economics, management, industry and other areas.

Originality/value

The proposed randomization scheme improves computational costs of the classical TR algorithm. Especially, the suggested algorithm avoids resolving the TR subproblems for many times.
What do mission statements reveal about the values of top universities in the world?
Authors: Breznik Kristijan , Law Kris M.Y.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

Mission statements are perceived as effective strategic tools and foundations of an organization's objectives, driving the development of strategic plans to meet the established goals. A vast number of studies have investigated mission statements in industry; however, little is known on how mission statements affect institutes in the higher education sector. Every university is intrinsically different, with its own mission and goals. This study aims to explore how mission statements make the difference among universities, by understanding the values delivered by the mission statements.

Design/methodology/approach

This study attempts to understand the core values of universities through a content analysis of the mission statements of the top 250 universities worldwide.

Findings

The results show four core dimensions in university mission statements, namely, “Education Philosophies”, “Strategic Orientation”, “Social Responsibility” and “Values to Stakeholders”, while the most common core values are “Research”, “Educate” and “Student”.

Research limitations/implications

Mission statements offer insightful venues for the analysis of the strategic directions of universities. The results show that top universities present their core values through their mission statements. Some mission statements are more service-oriented (towards students) and some are more social-oriented (towards society and stakeholders). These mission statements are communicated to various stakeholders. “Education philosophies” are communicated to educators and students, “Social responsibility” is to the society, “Values to the stakeholders” are towards the different parties involved in the education system and the last one “Strategic orientation” is for the strategy setting.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a new methodology of mission statement studies, covering not only studies on mission statements but also the internationalization strategies of universities, which attract attention from academics and education researchers.
Better healthcare setting for better healthcare service quality
Authors: Kondasani Rama Koteswara Rao , Panda Rajeev Kumar , Basu R.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess and compare different private healthcare settings based on perceived service quality in Indian context using analytical hierarchy process (AHP). The Indian private healthcare sector has been controlled by three categories of healthcare settings, namely, nursing clinics (NCs), non-corporate hospitals (NCHs) and corporate hospitals (CHs).

Design/methodology/approach

AHP was used to rank order of healthcare setting regarding the service quality dimensions and relative standings of every service provider with respect to its competitors. The authors collected random data from nine private hospitals situated in eastern and southern India. The authors proposed a feasible appraising approach based on AHP to decide the sustainability priority of dimensions like reliability, physical environment, empathy, efficiency, timeliness, transparency, affordability, communication, appropriateness and consistency in the Indian private healthcare industry.

Findings

The result demonstrates that Indian NCHs are performing better on customers’ perceived service quality, followed by CHs and NCs. The comparative performance of healthcare settings is an attempt to establish a performance ranking.

Originality/value

This research assesses dimensions of the service quality that need urgent attention. The results may provide insight to healthcare managers as to how they can improve their service quality in order to match customer expectation and to improve business performance.
Wear behaviors of WC and TiC on co matrix composites under three-body impact abrasive wear condition
Authors: Dong Lei , Zhang Xiaoyu , Liu Kun , Liu Xiaojun , Shi Ruiming , Wang Junyuan , Liu Feng
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the tribological properties of the WC/TiC-Co substrate under different loading conditions under three impact abrasive wear conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The three body collisional wear behavior of Co alloy with WC and TiC at three impact energy was studied from 1 to 3 J. Meanwhile, the microstructure, hardness, phase transformation and wear behavior of these specimens were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, Rockwell hardness (HRV), EDS and impact wear tester. The resulting wear rate was quantified by electronic balance measurements under different pressures.

Findings

The specific wear rate increases with the increase of the nonlinearity of the impact energy and the increase in the content of WC or TiC. The effect of TiC on wear rate is greater than that of WC, but the hardness is smaller. The wear characteristics of the samples are mainly characterized by three kinds of behavior, such as cutting wear, abrasive wear and strain fatigue wear. The WC-Co with fewer TiC samples suffered heavier abrasive wear than the more TiC samples under both low and high impact energy and underwent fewer strain fatigue wears under high impact energy.

Originality/value

The experimental results show that the wear resistance of the Co alloy is improved effectively and the excellent impact wear performance is achieved. The results can be used in cutting tools such as coal mine cutting machines or other fields.
Analysis on suitability of HVOF sprayed Ni-20Al, Ni-20Cr and Al-20Ti coatings in coal-ash slurry conditions using artificial neural network model
Authors: Singh Jashanpreet
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the slurry erosion failure of Ni-20Cr (Ni-Cr2O3), Ni-20Al (Ni-Al2O3) and Al-20Ti (Al2O3-TiO2) coatings deposited on SS316L by the high-velocity oxy-fuel process.

Design/methodology/approach

Slurry erosion experiments were conducted using a pot type erosion tester at different velocities 1.81, 2.71, 3.61 and 4.59 m/s for the time duration of 90-180 minutes. Fly ash and bottom ash were used as erodent media; the concentration of mass flux was taken as 30-60 wt. per cent. Artificial neural network (ANN) method was used to simulate the slurry erosion for thermally sprayed coatings.

Findings

Slurry erosion of coatings increases non-linearly with an increase in experimental durations, mass flux and velocity. Slurry erosion of Ni-20Cr and Ni-20Al layers was found to be maximum at 60° impingement angle, whereas 30° for SS316L and 45° for Al-20Ti coating. Slurry erosion performance of SS316L was improved by 2.56-3.19 times by depositing Ni-20Cr and Ni-20Al layers, whereas it improved 1.15-1.75 times by Al-20Ti coating. The slurry erosion SS316L was found almost 1.35 ± 1.28 times greater than that of the Ni-20Al coating, whereas it was to be 1.12 ± 1.36 times greater than Al-20Ti. Ni-20Al-coated SS316L showed a lower value of slurry erosion than Al-20Ti-coated SS316L.

Practical implications

Stainless Steel SS316L is widely used in hydraulic machinery (such as turbines, pumps, valves, fittings, etc.) of hydraulic and thermal power plants, chemical industry and marine industry. Therefore, the deposition of ductile and brittle coatings is a better option for their durable performance.

Originality/value

Erosion wear of Ni-20Cr, Ni-20Al and Al-20Ti coatings was successfully simulated by using an artificial neural network model by supplying experimental data as a target.
Finance-growth nexus: Islamic finance development in Indonesia
Authors: Al Fathan Ryanda , Arundina Tika
Published: July 2019

Purpose

There are many studies related to finance-growth nexus, but existing empirical evidences still have not provided conclusive result of the nature and direction of this relationship. Moreover, there are only few studies about finance-growth nexus seen from Islamic finance perspective, especially in Indonesia. Therefore, this study aims to examine the nature of causal relationship between Islamic finance development and economic growth in Indonesia seen from the development of Islamic banking, sukuk market and Islamic stock market.

Design/methodology/approach

By using quarterly data from 2002Q3 to 2017Q4, this study uses vector autoregressive (VAR) model, then uses granger causality and impulse response function to analyze the causal relationship between Islamic finance development and economic growth and also among three main sub-sectors of Islamic finance.

Findings

This study found that Islamic banking development and Islamic stock market development support neutrality hypotheses view, while sukuk market development supports supply-leading hypotheses view. Moreover, this study also found that there are unidirectional causalities from sukuk market development to Islamic banking development and from sukuk market development to Islamic stock market development.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses only on the development of Islamic finance viewed from a macro perspective and only looks at how the three main sub-sectors in Islamic finance develop. In addition, the results of research related to finance-growth nexus are also sensitive to the object of research, the method and the proxies of variables used.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, there is no study that examines the causal relationship between Islamic finance development and economic growth in Indonesia based on its three main sub-sectors simultaneously. So, this study gives empirical evidence to contribute on finance-growth nexus discussion based on three main sub-sectors of Islamic finance development in Indonesia.
Cybersecurity economics – balancing operational security spending
Authors: Ekelund Stale , Iskoujina Zilia
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how to find the optimal investment level in protecting an organisation’s assets.

Design/methodology/approach

This study integrates a case study of an international financial organisation with various methods and theories in security economics and mathematics, such as value-at-risk (VaR), Monte Carlo simulation, exponential and Poisson probability distributions. Thereby it combines theory and empirical findings to establish a new approach to determining optimal security investment levels.

Findings

The results indicate that optimal security investment levels can be found through computer simulation with historical incident data to find VaR. By combining various scenarios, the convex graph of the risk cost function has been plotted, where the minimum of the graph represents the optimal invest level for an asset.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of the research include a modest number of loss observations from one case study, and the use of normal probability distribution. The approach has limitations where there are no historical data available or the data has zero losses. These areas should undergo further research including larger data set of losses and exploring other probability distributions.

Practical implications

The results can be used by leading business practitioners to assist them with decision making on investment to the increased protection of an asset.

Originality/value

The originality of this research is in its new way of combining theories with historical data to create methods to measure theoretical and empirical strength of a control (or set of controls) and translating it to loss probabilities and loss sizes.
How do enterprise social media affordances affect social network ties and job performance?
Authors: Chen Xiayu , Wei Shaobo , Davison Robert M. , Rice Ronald E.
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how four enterprise social media (ESM) affordances (visibility, association, editability and persistence) affect social network ties (instrumental and expressive), which, in turn, influence the in-role and innovative job performance of employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 251 ESM users in the workplace in China was conducted.

Findings

All four affordances are positively associated with instrumental ties, yet only the association and editability affordances are positively related to expressive ties. Although instrumental and expressive ties are positively related to in-role and innovative job performance, instrumental ties exert stronger effects on in-role job performance, whereas expressive ties show stronger effects on innovative job performance.

Research limitations/implications

First, additional relevant affordances should be included in an expanded model. Second, future research could examine how patterns of affordances use (unrelated, or hierarchically or sequentially related) affect organizational network ties. Third, there are likely (many) other exogenous factors affecting the model’s relationships. Fourth, the data collected are self-reported.

Practical implications

This study advances the theoretical understanding of the role of ESM affordances in the workplace, especially through their influences on network ties. The findings can guide organizations on how to emphasize ESM affordances to foster instrumental and expressive ties to improve the job performance of employees.

Originality/value

First, it provides novel views on affordance theory in ESM contexts by empirically testing four central affordances, thereby further providing preliminary evidence for prior theoretical propositions by confirming that social media affordances might be associated with or influence relational ties. Second, the study integrates an affordance lens and a social network perspective to investigate employees’ perceived performance behavior. Including social network ties can offer a more detailed understanding of the underlying processes of how ESM affordances can and do affect job performance. Third, it supports the validity of distinguishing instrumental and expressive ties in ESM contexts, thus offering a possible explanation for the inconsistencies in prior research on the impact of social networks on employee outcomes. Finally, it also shows how two kinds of organizational performance (in-role and innovative) are somewhat differentially influenced by affordances and network ties.
Drivers of purchase behavior and post-purchase evaluation in the Singles’ Day promotion
Authors: Wang Lingli , Yan Qiang , Chen Wenjing
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the strategies used by consumers to control themselves in the Singles’ Day promotion. It also examines how promotion and social influence affect consumers’ purchase behavior and post-purchase evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methods approach including a quantitative study (N = 480) and a follow-up qualitative study (N = 35) was conducted to verify the hypotheses and provide deeper insights.

Findings

This study demonstrates that consumers allocate in-store slack in shopping budgets to restrict unplanned purchases and in-store slack is positively related to post-purchase evaluation. Social influence, which helps consumers rationalize purchase decisions, has positive effects on planned purchases and post-purchase evaluation. Both promotion strength and promotion range moderate the relationship between in-store slack and unplanned purchases.

Originality/value

Most studies investigate how promotion designs affect consumers’ in-store decision-making. This study focuses on the Singles’ Day promotion in China and examines the tactics consumers use to control purchase behavior in the promotion.
Does service quality increase the level of banks performance
Authors: Ali Syed Faraz , Naeem Muhammad
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to unfold the relationship between service quality and level of performance of conventional and Islamic banks. Also, it intends to uncover what are the features of service quality which can raise the level of performance either in conventional banks or Islamic banks. There is rare literature available that focused on comparative study between above stated banking systems based on emerging parameters of SERVQUAL model.

Design/methodology/approach

To meet the objectives of this investigation, research data has been from 450 customers who have had accounts and dealings with conventional and Islamic banks in the previous five years. The customers are selected based on cluster sampling from regional offices of conventional and Islamic banks.

Findings

The collected data have been analyzed by using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) technique followed by common method variance (CMV), multiple regression test and independent samplet-test used to examine the parameters of service quality in the context of banks performance. The purpose of CFA is to find the model validity, while multiple regression and t-test is performed in order to examine the influence of service quality parameters on banks performance.

Originality/value

The study used compliance as a one of the emerging and unique dimension of service quality. This dimension is rarely investigated in the context of measuring the level of bank performance of conventional and Islamic banking systems. Findings reveal responsiveness and assurance is the strongest predictor of conventional banking performance. Compliance and reliability has significant and positive impact on the level of performance of Islamic banks. Moreover, the study has practical implications for the top management and stakeholders of conventional and Islamic banks to increase the level of performance by using SERVQUAL model.
Shear tab connection with composite beam subjected to transient-state fire temperatures
Authors: Hajjar Mohammad , Hantouche Elie , El Ghor Ahmad
Published: July 2019

Purpose

This study aims to develop a rational model to predict the thermal axial forces developed in shear tab connections with composite beams when subjected to transient-state fire temperatures.

Design/methodology/approach

Finite element (FE) models are first developed in ABAQUS and validated against experimental data available in the literature. Second, a parametric study is conducted to identify the major parameters that affect the behavior of shear tab connections with composite beams in the fire. This includes beam length, shear tab thickness, shear tab location, concrete slab thickness, setback distance and partial composite action. A design-oriented model is developed to predict the thermal induced axial forces during the heating and cooling phases of a fire event. The model consists of multi-linear springs that can predict the stiffness and strength of each component of the connection with the composite beam.

Findings

The FE results show that significant thermal axial forces are generated in the composite beam in the fire. This is prominent when the beam bottom flange comes in contact with the column. Fracture at the toe of the welds governs the behavior during the cooling phase in most FE simulations. Also, the rational model is validated against the FE results and is capable of predicting the thermal axial forces developed in shear tab connections with composite beams under different geometrical properties.

Originality/value

The proposed model can predict the thermal axial force demand and can be used in performance-based approaches in future structural fire engineering applications.
Mental health, social inclusion and the development of vocational services in the NHS – what can be learnt?
Authors: Bertram Mark
Published: July 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the learning from a historical NHS vocational service development that focused on: mental health, employment and social inclusion – in an inner city area – involving service users, staff and commissioners.

Design/methodology/approach

It is a descriptive case study. A range of historical documents was content analysed and described through a first-person narrative: service user consultations, service specifications, audit records, outcome frameworks, internal service evaluations and published literature.

Findings

When vocational NHS service developments are grounded in what service users say helps them (person-centred, networked and co-ordinated approaches) the evidence indicates people can achieve their vocational goals.

Research limitations/implications

The range of documents described is factual, although the learning insights from some of the service developments are based on personal judgements. The author was the responsible manager – personal bias is high. There is not enough robust evidence to warrant generalisation.

Practical implications

When employment and social inclusion are prioritised, as core business in NHS, outcomes and health impact can increase. Greater detail is needed from healthcare policy makers – focusing on who exactly should undertake this work and what the key commissioning social inclusion performance indicators are.

Originality/value

The bulk of literature on employment support focuses on promoting evidence from one model: individual placement and support. Evidence here indicates a broader range of activity (education, training and volunteering) can have value and health impact.
Generalized Tikhonov's algorithm for accurate calculation of one‐dimensional transient responses directly in time domain
Authors: Mogilatov Vladimir , Goldman Mark
Published: July 2019

In the last two decades, forward modelling for the time domain (transient) electromagnetic method has concentrated almost entirely on multi‐dimensional models and algorithms. At the same time, the interpretation of real field data is still mainly one dimensional. This is caused by the lack of an efficient multi‐dimensional acquisition procedure supported by sufficiently fast and reliable inversion software, on the one hand, and by the great efficiency of one‐dimensional field set up and interpretation of the data on the other hand. The latter is particularly true for the short offset transient electromagnetic method, which is much less sensitive to multi‐dimensional effects, compared to long offset methods. The most commonly used one‐dimensional forward modelling algorithms are based on the spectral method, which requires calculating rapidly oscillating Fourier–Bessel (Hankel) integrals. Due to the very fast decay of short offset responses, the integrals become computationally unstable at late times of the transient process. Although this problem has been successfully solved for practically feasible measurement times of conventional short offset systems using transverse electric and mixed transverse electric and transverse magnetic fields, it turned out crucial for novel methods based on the use of unimodal transverse magnetic fields. These methods are much more sensitive to geoelectric parameters of the Earth in general and those of resistive targets, in particular, but they generate responses, which drop at late times significantly faster than those of conventional methods. Such behaviour of transverse magnetic fields represents severe computational problem for the spectral method, but is successfully solved by direct time domain algorithms. This article describes a generalization of the well‐known Tikhonov's solution to a boundary value problem directly in time domain, which is applied to an arbitrary one‐dimensional earth model excited by an arbitrary source. Contrary to existing spectral algorithms, the described method allows accurate calculations of both transverse electric and transverse magnetic transient responses at arbitrarily late times. On the other hand, it is more time efficient than finite‐difference/finite element direct time domain algorithms and provides analytical late‐stage asymptotic solutions.
Combined effects of grazing management and climate on semi‐arid steppes: Hysteresis dynamics prevent recovery of degraded rangelands
Authors: Cipriotti Pablo A. , Aguiar Martín R. , Wiegand Thorsten , Paruelo José M.
Published: July 2019

Livestock grazing has degraded many arid and semi‐arid rangelands around the world, and the drier climate predicted by climate change scenarios may amplify these effects and even lead to catastrophic vegetation shifts.

We assess the long‐term effects (1900–2100) of grazing and rainfall on various aspects of vegetation structure including the grass‐shrub balance, the maintenance of spatial vegetation patterns, and the decline or recovery of palatable grasses (e.g. Poa ligularis) on a cover and/or density basis. We used the eco‐hydrological and individual‐based simulation model DINVEG for this purpose, which describes the spatiotemporal dynamics of Patagonian grass‐shrub steppes based on six decades of field research (1955–2018).

Rainfall and grazing affected the simulated vegetation structure in different ways. Total plant cover was mostly influenced by rainfall, but the cover of palatable grasses was mostly influenced by stocking rate. Dry conditions and low stocking rates (122 mm/year and <0.2 sheep/ha) favoured grasses over shrubs, whereas shrub encroachment occurred only in the high rainfall scenario combined with high stocking rates (181 mm/year and >0.2 sheep/ha).

High stocking rates and/or drier conditions caused only gradual shifts in spatial vegetation patterns, but maintained the observed positive association for grasses around shrubs. In contrast, shrub encroachment was associated with repulsion between grasses and shrubs and the formation of shrub clusters into a matrix of scattered less palatable grasses.

Plant compositional changes occurred through grass species replacement (e.g. P. ligularis is replaced by Pappostipa humilis) and the associated hysteresis effect of palatable grass species: model simulations suggest that 2–3 decades of heavy and year‐long continuous grazing can drive palatable grasses to close to extinction, whereas natural recovery of degraded steppes may take 100 years or longer.

Synthesis and applications. Desertification and climate change challenge grazing management in semi‐arid rangelands, especially in already degraded ecosystems. Management that alternates between years of grazing and resting was effective to maintain the cover of palatable grasses, but this allowed for only very slow recovery of degraded steppes. While drier climate and grazing may not change the overall spatial patterns of vegetation, our results are rather pessimistic regarding the short‐term recovery of palatable grasses. This will require increasing complexity in ecosystem restoration efforts, combined with interventions such as sowing, watering, reseeding or major changes in land use.
Faux Blood Fingermark on Pistol: Latent Fingerprint Developed by Whole Blood
Authors: Lin Sheng , Luo Yaping , Xie Lianqun , Yu Yang , Mi Zhongliang
Published: July 2019

We present a case of a faux blood fingermark, wherein a natural latent fingerprint on the pistol at the crime scene was enhanced by the whole blood of the victim. A male was shot to death. The crime scene investigator did not find any blood fingermark during the collection of evidence, but a blood fingerprint was noticed in the firearms examination. We identified that the fingerprint was of the victim; a series of experiments on the nonporous substrate were then conducted; the death in this case was classified as a suicide. The phenomenon is interesting, and thus, calls for attention of the forensic community.
Tumour response in non‐small‐cell lung cancer patients treated with chemoradiotherapy – Can spectral CT predict recurrence?
Authors: Fehrenbach Uli , Feldhaus Felix , Kahn Johannes , Böning Georg , Maurer Martin H , Renz Diane , Frost Nikolaj , Streitparth Florian
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Tumour response in lung cancer treatment is monitored by measuring lesion size in computed tomography (CT). Spectral CT (SCT) offers additional information on tumour tissue besides morphology. We evaluated SCT iodine content (IC) and performed spectral slope analysis to assess the response of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to chemoradiotherapy (CRT).

Methods

Eighty‐three patients with advanced NSCLC treated by CRT prospectively underwent single‐phase, contrast‐enhanced SCT. Evaluation of all patients included treatment response (RECIST 1.1), quantitative measurements as well as SCT IC determination and spectral slope analysis in NSCLC primaries. Measurements were performed at the maximum cross‐diameter of tumours and in areas with high iodine values (hotspot analysis). Iodine difference (ΔIC) was calculated. Secondary outcome parameters were IC and spectral slopes in mediastinal lymph nodes (n = 61).

Results

Twenty‐four patients (29%) showed complete remission after CRT. Thirty‐four patients (41%) had stable disease (SDSCT) or partial regression (PRSCT). Progressive disease (PDSCT) was seen in 25 patients (30%). Hotspot analysis showed significantly higher iodine values in PDSCT than in SDSCT/PRSCT (P < 0.001). Ten patients (12%) with initially stable disease in SCT showed progressive disease during follow‐up for up to 18 months (PDFU). These patients also had significantly higher hotspot iodine values and ΔIC in the initial scan compared to patients with SD throughout the follow‐up period (SDFU) (29%) (P < 0.001). Enlarged lymph nodes showed significantly lower iodine content and a lower spectral slope pitch than normal‐sized nodes (P = 0.003 to 0.029).

Conclusion

Spectral CT‐derived iodine content of NSCLC following CRT may help in predicting recurrence. Hotspot analysis and iodine heterogeneity allow the identification of residual vascularisation as an indicator of vital tumour tissue, indicating that IC might be a suitable imaging biomarker for predicting tumour progression. Iodine content and spectral slope analysis might also help in identifying metastatic lymph nodes.
C‐reactive protein for risk prediction of post‐operative delirium and post‐operative neurocognitive disorder
Authors: Knaak Cornelia , Vorderwülbecke Gerald , Spies Claudia , Piper Sophie K. , Hadzidiakos Daniel , Borchers Friedrich , Brockhaus Wolf‐Rüdiger , Radtke Finn M. , Lachmann Gunnar
Published: July 2019

Background

Post‐operative delirium (POD) and post‐operative neurocognitive disorder (NCD) are frequently seen in the elderly. Development of biomarkers for pre‐operative risk prediction is of major relevance. As inflammation present before surgery might predispose to POD and post‐operative NCD development, we aim to determine associations between pre‐operative C‐reactive protein (CRP) and the incidence of POD and post‐operative NCD.

Methods

In this observational study, we analyzed 314 patients enrolled in the SuDoCo trial, who had a pre‐operative CRP measurement the day before surgery. Primary outcomes were POD assessed according DSM‐4 from day 1 until day 7 after surgery and post‐operative NCD assessed 3 months after surgery. We conducted multivariable logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, randomization, body mass index, MMSE, ASA status, infection/autoimmune disease/malignoma and types of surgery to determine associations between CRP with POD and post‐operative NCD, respectively.

Results

Pre‐operative CRP was independently associated with POD [OR 1.158 (95% CI 1.040, 1.291); P = .008]. Patients with CRP values ≥5 mg/dL had a 4.8‐fold increased POD risk [OR 4.771 (95% CI 1.765, 12.899; P = .002)] compared to patients with lower CRP values. However, no association was seen between pre‐operative CRP and post‐operative NCD [OR 0.552 (95% CI 0.193, 1.581); P = .269].

Conclusions

Pre‐operative CRP levels were independently associated with POD but not post‐operative NCD after three months. Moreover, higher pre‐operative CRP levels showed higher risk for POD. This strengthens the role of inflammation in the development of POD. Assessment of CRP before surgery might allow risk stratification of POD.

Trial registration

This study was registered with ISRCTN Register 36437985 on 02 March 2009.
Genetic diversity and relationships among native Japanese horse breeds, the Japanese Thoroughbred and horses outside of Japan using genome‐wide SNP data
Authors: Tozaki T. , Kikuchi M. , Kakoi H. , Hirota K. , Nagata S. , Yamashita D. , Ohnuma T. , Takasu M. , Kobayashi I. , Hobo S. , Manglai D. , Petersen J. L.
Published: July 2019

Eight horse breeds—Hokkaido, Kiso, Misaki, Noma, Taishu, Tokara, Miyako and Yonaguni—are native to Japan. Although Japanese native breeds are believed to have originated from ancient Mongolian horses imported from the Korean Peninsula, the phylogenetic relationships among these breeds are not well elucidated. In the present study, we compared genetic diversity among 32 international horse breeds previously evaluated by the Equine Genetic Diversity Consortium, the eight Japanese native breeds and Japanese Thoroughbreds using genome‐wide SNP genotype data. The proportion of polymorphic loci and expected heterozygosity showed that the native Japanese breeds, with the exception of the Hokkaido, have relatively low diversity compared to the other breeds sampled. Phylogenetic and cluster analyses demonstrated relationships among the breeds that largely reflect their geographic distribution in Japan. Based on these data, we suggest that Japanese horses originated from Mongolian horses migrating through the Korean Peninsula. The Japanese Thoroughbreds were distinct from the native breeds, and although they maintain similar overall diversity as Thoroughbreds from outside Japan, they also show evidence of uniqueness relative to the other Thoroughbred samples. This is the first study to place the eight native Japanese breeds and Japanese Thoroughbred in context with an international sample of diverse breeds.
Learning curve for laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair: A single‐surgeon experience of consecutive 105 procedures
Authors: Kuge Hiroyuki , Yokoo Takashi , Uchida Hideki , Yamaoka Kentaro , Yoshikawa Shusaku
Published: July 2019

Introduction

Based on previously published papers, the learning curve for laparoscopic groin hernia repair is controversial. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the learning curve for laparoscopic surgery for groin hernia in a local hospital setting.

Method

We analyzed 100 consecutive cases of laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair performed by a single surgeon at a single facility from April 2013 to December 2015. The total operative time was divided into three parts: (a) preparing the peritoneal flap, (b) unfolding the mesh, and (c) suturing the peritoneum. A cumulative sum method for the total operative time and duration of the three parts was used to determine the learning curve.

Results

The learning curve was overcome after 75 cases based on cumulative sum analysis of the total operative time. The cumulative sum analysis of the times to unfold mesh and to suture the peritoneum indicated that the learning curve was overcome after 22 and 32 cases, respectively. The learning curve for preparing the peritoneal space was correlated with that for the entire procedure. No cases of recurrence were encountered.

Conclusion

At least 75 cases were needed to overcome the learning curve for laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair.
Sleep and lying behavior of milking Holstein cows at commercial tie‐stall dairy farms
Authors: Fukasawa Michiru , Komatsu Tokushi , Higashiyama Yumi
Published: July 2019

The aim of this study was to clarify cow's sleep behavior on farm and to examine the influence of some environment and management factors on cow's sleep. Total 85 behavior data (summer 41, autumn 44) were corrected from 12 commercial tie‐stall dairy farm in northern Tohoku area. Daily duration, bout frequency, and averaged bout duration of sleep and lying were measured. Even though there was no significant difference in any lying measurements, daily duration, bout frequency, and averaged bout duration of sleep was significantly different among farms (p < 0.01, p < 0.01, and p < 0.05, respectively). However, we could not find that any managements influence on sleep. There was significant seasonal difference in daily sleep duration (p < 0.01) and sleep bout frequency (p < 0.05). On the other hand, daily lying duration and averaged lying bout duration were significantly different between seasons (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). Primiparous cows slept longer and more frequent than multiparous (both p < 0.001). Milk solid‐non‐fat content was positively correlated with daily sleep duration (p < 0.05) and bout frequency (p < 0.01). These results might imply the productive importance of sleep related with anabolic hormones release.
Relationships among financial satisfaction, life satisfaction, and political action: A comparative study of the United States and South Korea
Authors: Lee Sunwoo , Lee Sangwoo
Published: July 2019

This study explores the potential impact of cultural orientation on the relationship between financial satisfaction, life satisfaction, and political action within the United States and South Korea. The total sample size was 3,432 individuals (United States = 2,232, South Korea = 1,200). 1 confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) model and a path analysis model were assessed using a maximum likelihood estimation. The findings showed a strong positive relationship between financial satisfaction and life satisfaction in both countries. Also, in both countries, more progressive individuals participated in more political actions. When exploring political action, we find an inverse relationship—with greater political action among lower‐income individuals in the United States and greater political action among higher‐income in South Korea. In South Korea (culturally “collectivistic”), middle‐income individuals were also found to participate in political actions that likely benefit larger segments of society. From a cultural dimensions theory perspective, these data suggest political actions in the United States (classified as “individualistic”) were largely conducted by low‐income individuals, potentially as means to enhance their individual well‐being.
Immersive virtual field trips in education: A mixed‐methods study on elementary students' presence and perceived learning
Authors: Han Insook
Published: July 2019

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of immersive virtual field trips (VFTs) with head‐mounted displays (HMDs) on the presence and perceived learning. A mixed‐method approach was used to obtain an overall understanding of students' experiences with this immersive technology in an elementary classroom. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected from 27 elementary‐school students through presence surveys and reflection papers. Statistical analyses were performed to compare immersive VFTs with traditional VFTs regarding students' virtual presence. Further, an inductive content analysis was performed to analyze reflection papers. The results showed an overall enhancement in virtual presence with the use of immersive VFTs. However, students felt that learning was not favorable with HMDs. The result of this study provides practical implications for the use of immersive VFTs in classroom settings.
Interactive Curve Constrained Functional Maps
Authors: Gehre A. , Bronstein M. , Kobbelt L. , Solomon J.
Published: July 2019

Functional maps have gained popularity as a versatile framework for representing intrinsic correspondence between 3D shapes using algebraic machinery. A key ingredient for this framework is the ability to find pairs of corresponding functions (typically, feature descriptors) across the shapes. This is a challenging problem on its own, and when the shapes are strongly non‐isometric, nearly impossible to solve automatically. In this paper, we use feature curve correspondences to provide flexible abstractions of semantically similar parts of non‐isometric shapes. We design a user interface implementing an interactive process for constructing shape correspondence, allowing the user to update the functional map at interactive rates by introducing feature curve correspondences. We add feature curve preservation constraints to the functional map framework and propose an efficient numerical method to optimize the map with immediate feedback. Experimental results show that our approach establishes correspondences between geometrically diverse shapes with just a few clicks.
Topological Function Optimization for Continuous Shape Matching
Authors: Poulenard Adrien , Skraba Primoz , Ovsjanikov Maks
Published: July 2019

We present a novel approach for optimizing real‐valued functions based on a wide range of topological criteria. In particular, we show how to modify a given function in order to remove topological noise and to exhibit prescribed topological features. Our method is based on using the previously‐proposed persistence diagrams associated with real‐valued functions, and on the analysis of the derivatives of these diagrams with respect to changes in the function values. This analysis allows us to use continuous optimization techniques to modify a given function, while optimizing an energy based purely on the values in the persistence diagrams. We also present a procedure for aligning persistence diagrams of functions on different domains, without requiring a mapping between them. Finally, we demonstrate the utility of these constructions in the context of the functional map framework, by first giving a characterization of functional maps that are associated with continuous point‐to‐point correspondences, directly in the functional domain, and then by presenting an optimization scheme that helps to promote the continuity of functional maps, when expressed in the reduced basis, without imposing any restrictions on metric distortion. We demonstrate that our approach is efficient and can lead to improvement in the accuracy of maps computed in practice.
Packing Irregular Objects in 3D Space via Hybrid Optimization
Authors: Ma Y. , Chen Z. , Hu W. , Wang W.
Published: July 2019

Packing problems arise in a wide variety of practical applications. The basic problem is that of placing as many objects as possible in a non‐overlapping configuration within a given container. Problems involving irregular shapes are the most challenging cases. In this paper, we consider the most general forms of irregular shape packing problems in 3D space, where both the containers and the objects can be of any shapes, and free rotations of the objects are allowed. We propose a heuristic method for efficiently packing irregular objects by combining continuous optimization and combinatorial optimization. Starting from an initial placement of an appropriate number of objects, we optimize the positions and orientations of the objects using continuous optimization. In combinatorial optimization, we further reduce the gaps between objects by swapping and replacing the deployed objects and inserting new objects. We demonstrate the efficacy of our method with experiments and comparisons.