bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is There Benefit from Stenting on Cognitive Function in Intracranial Atherosclerosis?
Authors: Turan Tanya N. , Smock Alison , Cotsonis George , Bachman David , Al Kasab Sami , Lynn Michael J. , Nizham Azhar , Derdeyn Collin P. , Fiorella David , Janis Scott , Lane Bethany , Montgomery Jean , Chimowitz Marc I. ,   for the SAMMPRIS Investigators
Published: November 2016

Background: Revascularization of stenotic cerebral arteries is hypothesized to improve cognition by increasing cerebral perfusion. Aims: We compared cognition impairment among patients treated with percutaneous angioplasty and stenting (PTAS) and aggressive medical management (AMM) versus AMM alone in the Stenting versus Aggressive Medical Therapy for Intracranial Arterial Stenosis (SAMMPRIS) Trial. Methods: In SAMMPRIS, 451 patients with recent transient ischemic attack or stroke attributed to 70-99% intracranial stenosis were randomized to PTAS plus AMM or AMM alone. Patients who had stroke as the qualifying event with National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale indicating aphasia or neglect were excluded from these analyses. Patients with a cerebrovascular event (ischemic stroke, cerebral infarct with temporary signs or intracranial hemorrhage) during follow-up were excluded from follow-up visit analyses. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score was used to assess cognition impairment at baseline, 4 months, 12 months and closeout. Cognitive impairment was defined as MoCA <26. Mean MoCA scores and the percentage of patients with cognitive impairment were compared between treatment groups at each time point using t tests and chi-square tests. Differences in MoCA mean at baseline and follow-up time points were compared using mixed model repeated measures ANOVA and Tukey-Kramer tests. Results: There were no significant differences between the treatment groups for mean MoCA at any time point. Mean MoCA scores improved in both groups. The percentage of patients with cognitive impairment in the AMM versus PTAS groups was not significantly different at any time point. Conclusions: Revascularization with PTAS showed no improvement in cognitive impairment over AMM alone among patients who did not have recurrent cerebrovascular events during follow-up.
11C-Choline-Avid but 18F-FDG-Nonavid Prostate Cancer with Lymph Node Metastases on Positron Emission Tomography
Authors: Kitajima Kazuhiro , Fukushima Kazuhito , Yamamoto Shingo , Yamano Toshiko , Takaki Haruyuki , Yamakado Koichiro , Nakanishi Yukako , Kanematsu Akihiro , Nojima Michio , Hirota Shozo
Published: November 2016

Choline is a new positron emission tomography (PET) tracer useful for detection of prostate cancer and metastatic lesions. We report a 70-year-old man with prostate cancer and multiple abdominal, pelvic, and inguinal node metastases. PET scans demonstrated accumulation of 11C-choline in the primary tumor and lymph node metastases but no accumulation of 18F-FDG. Choline PET/computed tomography may be useful for diagnosis of advanced prostate cancer with suspected metastatic lesions and treatment planning.
Prevalence and Symptomatic Burden of Diagnosed Endometriosis in the United States: National Estimates from a Cross-Sectional Survey of 59,411 Women
Authors: Fuldeore Mahesh J. , Soliman Ahmed M.
Published: November 2016

Background/Aims: To estimate the prevalence of diagnosed endometriosis (DE) in women in the United States and assess the associated symptomatic burden. Methods: An online, cross-sectional survey of women aged 18-49 years was conducted from August 6, 2012, through November 14, 2012. Survey data (weighted by age, race, education, income, geographical distribution, and propensity score) were used to estimate the prevalence and symptomatic burden of DE in women in the United States. Weighted logistic regressions were used to assess differences in symptom burden between women with and without endometriosis. Results: The prevalence of DE was estimated at 6.1% (2,922 of 48,020 women surveyed); 52.7% of women were 18-29 years of age when they were diagnosed with endometriosis. Most (86.2%) women experienced symptoms before diagnosis. More women with (vs. without) DE had menstrual pelvic pain/cramping (52.7 vs. 45.2%), non-menstrual pelvic pain/cramping (36.7 vs. 14.3%), infertility (11.6 vs. 3.4%), and dyspareunia (29.5 vs. 13.4%). Women with endometriosis were also more likely to report severe symptoms (OR (95% CI) 2.7 (2.3-3.1) for menstrual pelvic pain/cramping, 2.2 (1.7-2.9) for non-menstrual pelvic pain/cramping, and 2.4 (1.8-3.2) for dyspareunia). Conclusion: The prevalence of DE among US women is notable, and affected women experience a substantial symptom burden.
SIP Authentication Protocols Based On Elliptic Curve Cryptography: Survey and comparison
Authors: Azrour Mourade , Ouanan Mohammed , Farhaoui Yousef
Published: November 2016

Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is the most popular signaling protocol using in order to establish, modify and terminate the session multimedia between different participants. It was selected by the Third Generation Project Partnership (3GPP) as a multimedia application protocol in 3G mobile networks. SIP is the protocol currently used for signaling ToIP calls.  The security of SIP is becoming more and more important. Authentication is the most important security service required by SIP. To ensure a secured communication, many SIP authentication protocols have been proposed. This work provides an overview of the proposed schemes based on elliptic curve cryptography. Those proposed schemes are analyzed in security consideration and the computational cost.
Switching Algorithm for Leakage Current Reduction in a PV- No Transformer Inverter System
Authors: N. H. Khan M. , R. Hasan M. , K. Alam M.
Published: November 2016

Electricity generation purposes renewable energy brings a important role especially Photovoltaic (PV) panels that can be covered our basic energy (electricity) needs. This photovoltaic panels cover a domestic level (solar power for home), commercially (solar power for commercial applications) or at the community level.  Here used this photovoltaic panel as an input of PV-transformer-less inverter topology which has been compared with existed H6 transformer-less inverter topology. It’s possible to reduce the leakage current with inclined the output voltage that has been shown here by using proposed topology.  This topology is made by using two extra switches with filter. Moreover, overall system actually verified with Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) switching technique.
Sounds of Time and Place
Authors: Fishenden Jerry
Published: November 2016

The author describes various aural techniques developed as part of the origination of the sonic content of compositions themed on palimpsests of time and place. Field-based recordings, authentic and synthetic impulse responses, convolution reverb and the use of third-party sounds retrieved via open programmatic interfaces are considered. The role of usability feedback is also discussed, specifically its beneficial impact on informing the development both of the compositions and the techniques they utilize. An initial mobile phone application is described, together with continuing work to develop additional mobile experiences.
Seed morphology of 12 taxa of the genus Thalictrum L. (Thalictroideae, Ranunculaceae) and its systematic implication
Authors: GHIMIRE BALKRISHNA , LEE HAYAN , CHOI GO EUN , JEONG MI JIN , SUH GANG UK , LEE CHEUL HO , HEO KWEON , SON SUNG WON
Published: November 2016

The seed morphology and anatomy of 12 species, representing five sections of Thalictrum, were investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM) to evaluate seed features for use in systematic analysis. Considerable differences were observed in seed surface micromorphology and seed coat characteristics both among and within sections of the genus. MANOVA, MDA, and cluster analysis were used to unravel the morphology of seeds among the species. The characteristic seed features for species were found to be seed shape, size, testa thickness, exotestal cells and seed surface sculpture. The results indicated that the most prevalent seed coat sculpture among the studied species was reticulate and some species were reticulate at the margin and rugose in the center. Seed surface was without ornamentation and epidermal cells were mostly polygonal, rectangular or irregularly shaped. The testa thickness varied from two to six cell layers, and the exotesta was well characterized and rectangular to tangentially elongate in most of the species, except T. simplex and T. uchiyamae in which exotesta was poorly represented. It has been observed that species with a non-reticulate or poorly developed reticulate surface sculpture have a less protected seed coat and vice versa. The results of this study indicated that seed morphological features do not, in general, provide strong support to the sectional division of the genus, but that species within sections shared some comparable seed features.
New records of sabellids and serpulids (Polychaeta: Sabellidae, Serpulidae) from the Tropical Eastern Pacific
Authors: BASTIDA-ZAVALA J. ROLANDO , BUELNA ALONDRA SOFÍA RODRÍGUEZ , DE LEÓN-GONZÁLEZ JESÚS ANGEL , CAMACHO-CRUZ KARLA ANDREA , CARMONA ISABEL
Published: November 2016

Sabellids and serpulids are two well represented families in the polychaete fauna of the Tropical Eastern Pacific, with 31 and 34 species respectively; however, most records come from the Gulf of California or the western coast of Baja California Peninsula. Only a few records are from localities in the large expanse of the central and southern Mexican Pacific. Thus, sabellids and serpulids were collected from several shallow water habitats along the coast of Mexican Pacific, such as coastal lagoons, coral reefs, rocky shores and from man-made structures as marinas, piers and ships of several harbors; additionally, specimens from national collections were revised. More than 8,400 specimens of sabellids and serpulids from the states of Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sonora, Sinaloa, Michoacán, Guerrero, Oaxaca and Chiapas, and some specimens from Panamá and Perú were examined. In the present work we record new localities of four sabellids and 24 serpulids. One sabellid, Branchiomma bairdi, is an exotic/invasive species in Oaxaca, Sinaloa and Baja California Sur, while four species of serpulids are exotic and/or cryptogenic species: Ficopomatus uschakovi, Hydroides dirampha, H. elegans and H. sanctaecrucis. Additionally, the geographical range has been extended for five species: the sabellids Pseudobranchiomma punctata from Oahu, Hawaii to La Paz Bay, and Parasabella pallida from California to Puerto Escondido, Baja California Sur; and for three serpulids, Hydroides inermis from the Galápagos Islands to Agua Blanca, Oaxaca, H. gairacensis from Panamá to Puerto Ángel, Oaxaca, and H. panamensis from Panamá to Huatulco, Oaxaca and Faro de Bucerías, Michoacán. Hydroides cf. amri, previously recorded as H. brachyacantha from Oahu, Hawaii, is more similar to H. amri from Australia. The number of sabellids recorded for the Tropical Eastern Pacific increased to 33, the serpulid species to 35.
Five new species of the Clubiona corticalis species group (Araneae, Clubionidae) from China
Authors: LIU PING , PENG XIANJIN , YAN HENGMEI
Published: November 2016

Five new species of the genus Clubiona collected in Mt. Gaoligong, Yunnan Province, China are described: C. biforamina n. sp., C. dactylina n. sp., C. falciforma n. sp., C. multidentata n. sp. and C. tangi n. sp., all belonging to the corticalis species group and known from both males and females.
New data on brachypterous Paederus (Coleoptera, Staphylinidae) of mainland China
Authors: LI QI-LI , LI LI-ZHEN , GU FUANG-KANG , PENG ZHONG
Published: November 2016

Material of the brachypterous Paederus of the Chinese provinces Henan, Anhui, Zhejiang, Hunan, Fujian, Guizhou, Sichuan, Shaanxi, Yunnan, Guangdong and Guangxi was examined. In total, twelve species are recognized, among which two are described here as new: P. daicongchaoi sp. n. (Anhui: Yaolouping) and P. nanlingensis sp. n. (Guangdong: Nanling). One species probably undescribed remains unnamed and one synonymy is proposed: Paederus (Gnathopaederus) bursavacua Willers, 2001 = Paederus (Gnathopaederus) daozhenensis Li & Zhou, 2009, nov. syn. A key to the brachypterous Paederus species of mainland China is provided.
Halosaur fishes (Notacanthiformes: Halosauridae) from Atlantic Spanish waters according to integrative taxonomy
Authors: BAÑÓN RAFAEL , ARRONTE JUAN CARLOS , ARMESTO ÁNGELES , BARROS-GARCÍA DAVID , CARLOS ALEJANDRO DE
Published: November 2016

From 2009 to 2011 thirty-five specimens belonging to six halosaurid species of the family Halosauridae were captured in two different locations in the northern waters of Spain. The specimens were identified as belonging to the genera Halosauropsis Collett, 1896, Halosaurus Johnson, 1864 and Aldrovandia Goode & Bean, 1896, including the following species: Halosauropsis macrochir (Günther, 1878), Halosaurus ovenii Johnson, 1864, Halosaurus johnsonianus Vaillant, 1888, Aldrovandia affinis (Günther, 1877), Aldrovandia phalacra (Vaillant, 1888) and Aldrovandia oleosa Sulak, 1977. The morphometric measurements and meristic characters of these specimens are given. As a result, a new northern limit of distribution of A. oleosa from the northeastern Atlantic is reported. Using a taxonomical integrative approach, the mitochondrial DNA COI gene sequences from all individuals where determined and their comparison with morphological characters showed no incongruities. Among these specimens, the highest genetic distance within species was 0.8% while the lowest value between species was 3.3%. This ample barcoding gap has allowed the delimitation and assignment of all species reported in a way that matches the traditional taxonomical methods previously employed.
Three new species and one new record of the leafhopper genus Agnesiella Dworakowska, 1970 (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Typhlocybinae: Typhlocybini) from China
Authors: YAN BIN , YANG MAO-FA
Published: November 2016

Three new species and one species newly recorded from China in the genus Agnesiella Dworakowska, 1970 are described and illustrated: A. (Draberiella) xantha sp. nov., A. (Draberiella) erosa sp. nov. and A. (Draberiella) latusa sp. nov., A. (Draberiella) azra Dworakowska, 1994 new record. A key to known Chinese species is given. The type specimens of the new species are deposited in the Institute of Entomology, Guizhou University, Guiyang, China (GUGC).
Synoptic Systems Interacting with the Rocky Mountain Barrier: Observations and Theories
Authors: Spensberger Clemens , Egger Joseph , Spengler Thomas
Published: November 2016

Using a composite analysis for strong sea level pressure perturbations off the west coast of North America, the evolution of large-amplitude synoptic systems upstream of the Rocky Mountains is investigated for the winter season. Corresponding previous analyses are refined by avoiding multiple counting of events and extended by including potential vorticity, vertical motion, and deformation in the analysis.

Cyclonic and anticyclonic anomalies behave similarly, with weak local extrema forming in the lee of the mountain range southeast of the parent systems. However, neither the geopotential anomaly nor the associated potential vorticity anomaly cross the mountain range. Nevertheless, these anomalies contribute to the sea level pressure anomaly in the lee. For both positive and negative anomalies, potential vorticity exhibits a bipolar structure with lobes over the reference point and over the Cordillera, respectively. The relevance of several theories describing the interaction between synoptic systems and mountains are discussed in the light of these findings.

It is important to note that these findings differ considerably from results reported in an earlier study. Key differences are the previously reported passage of a wave train over the reference point and the movement of the anomalies over the Rocky Mountains. Both features are absent in the current analysis. However, these features can be recovered if a 6-day high-pass filter is applied before the events are selected or if the analysis is applied to predominantly zonal flow situations.
Effects of Explicit Vocabulary Videos Delivered Through iPods on Students With Language Impairments
Authors: Lowman J. Joneen , Dressler Emily V.
Published: November 2016

Poor word learning is a hallmark characteristic of students with specific language impairment (SLI). Explicit vocabulary instruction has shown to positively improve word learning in this population. Mobile technology has many advantages making it conducive for addressing the word learning needs of students with SLI. The current study utilized a within-subjects design to investigate the effects of reading paired with explicit instruction delivered through videos viewed on an iPod to reading alone (i.e., traditional) on the novel word learning of fifth- and sixth-grade students with SLI. The order of exposure to the two conditions was counterbalanced across students. The video condition consisted of the students watching a 15-min video twice in 1 week that taught three words critical to comprehending fictional text. A new video was watched each week for 4 weeks. No explicit instruction was provided under the traditional condition. Results show that students learned more words at the expressive and receptive levels under the video condition than under the traditional condition regardless of order of conditions. Specifically, students learned approximately two novel words after viewing vocabulary videos for 30 min in a single week compared to no words under the traditional condition on four of the five measures.
The Circles of Prominence, A New Theory on Beauty
Authors: Young Philip A.
Published: November 2016

The Circles of Prominence, A New Theory on Beauty: Ideal Distances in the Eyes, Nose, Ears and Lips. The Circles of Prominence (COP) theorizes that the width of the iris serves as an ideal for multiple distances and shapes within the face. We wanted to test if the iris width (IW) dictates: 1.) the aesthetic ideal distance between eyelid margin and bottom of the eyebrow; 2.) the aesthetic ideal width of the nasal bridge and tip; 3.) the aesthetic ideal height of the upper lip; 4.) the aesthetic ideal height of the lower lip; 5.) and the aesthetic ideal distance the ear extends from the side of the face. This was a subjective survey to test these distances to find the ideal. The data supports that the ideal distance for eyebrow height, nasal bridge & tip width, and lower lip height are all 1 IW as predicted by the COP. The ideal height of the upper lip was statistically found to be ½ IW. The ideal distance that the ear extends from the side of the face was split between ½ IW and 1. As predicted, the data supports the idea that the Iris width serves as the ideal distance or shape for many elements in the face.
Arterial Cannulation and Cerebral Perfusion Strategies for Aortic Arch Operations
Authors: Foley Lisa S. , Yamanaka Katsuhiro , Reece T. Brett
Published: November 2016

Neurologic injuries following aortic arch operations can be devastating, with stroke occurring in up to 12% of elective operations and significant cerebral dysfunction occurring in up to 25% of cases. The primary challenge unique to aortic arch operations involves interruption of direct perfusion of the brachiocephalic vessels during arch reconstruction. For this reason, neuroprotection is paramount. The 2 main modes of protection are (1) reducing metabolic demand through hypothermia and (2) limiting, or even eliminating, the ischemic period. Preoperative selection of the cerebral perfusion plan for each operation is imperative to maintain maximal diffuse cerebral protection and prevent focal neurologic events.
Contribution of LHX4 Mutations to Pituitary Deficits in a Cohort of 417 Unrelated Patients
Authors: Cohen Enzo , Maghnie Mohamad , Collot Nathalie , Leger Juliane , Dastot Florence , Polak Michel , Rose Sophie , Touraine Philippe , Duquesnoy Philippe , Tauber Maïté , Copin Bruno , Bertrand Anne-Marie , Brioude Frederic , Larizza Daniela , Edouard Thomas , González Briceño Laura , Netchine Irène , Oliver-Petit Isabelle , Sobrier Marie-Laure , Amselem Serge , Legendre Marie
Published: November 2016

Context:

LHX4 encodes a LIM-homeodomain transcription factor that is implicated in early pituitary development. In humans, only 13 heterozygous LHX4 mutations have been associated with congenital hypopituitarism.

Objective:

The aims of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of LHX4 mutations in patients with hypopituitarism, to define the associated phenotypes, and to characterize the functional impact of the identified variants and the respective role of the 2 LIM domains of LHX4.

Design and Patients:

We screened 417 unrelated patients with isolated growth hormone deficiency or combined pituitary hormone deficiency associated with ectopic posterior pituitary and/or sella turcica anomalies for LHX4 mutations (Sanger sequencing). In vitro studies were performed to assess the functional consequences of the identified variants.

Results:

We identified 7 heterozygous variations, including p.(Tyr131*), p.(Arg48Thrfs*104), c.606+1G>T, p.Arg65Val, p.Thr163Pro, p.Arg221Gln, and p.Arg235Gln), that were associated with variable expressivity; 5 of the 7 were also associated with incomplete penetrance. The p.(Tyr131*), p.(Arg48Thrfs*104), p.Ala65Val, p.Thr163Pro, and p.Arg221Gln LHX4 variants are unable to transactivate the POU1F1 and GH promoters. As suggested by transactivation, subcellular localization, and protein-protein interaction studies, p.Arg235Gln is probably a rare polymorphism. Coimmunoprecipitation studies identified LHX3 as a potential protein partner of LHX4. As revealed by functional studies of LIM-defective recombinant LHX4 proteins, the LIM1 and LIM2 domains are not redundant.

Conclusion:

This study, performed in the largest cohort of patients screened so far for LHX4 mutations, describes 6 disease-causing mutations that are responsible for congenital hypopituitarism. LHX4 mutations were found to be associated with variable expressivity, and most of them with incomplete penetrance; their contribution to pituitary deficits that are associated with an ectopic posterior pituitary and/or a sella turcica defect is ∼1.4% in the 417 probands tested.
Gender, Conflict, and Muslim-Jewish Romance
Authors: Irving Sarah
Published: November 2016

National or ethnic collectivities are often coded in art, propaganda, and other media as “female”—passive, possessed, and penetrable by the enemy other. Particularly during times of conflict, the nation or homeland is depicted as a woman whose purity must be protected by men. Feminist explorations of this phenomenon have often focused on the language and practice of sexual violence against women in war. Mary Layoun’s discussion of Cypriot fiction raises a different possibility: when women transgress group boundaries and make their own choice to pursue sexual relationships with the other, this rupture of dominant ideologies opens up new ways of thinking about identity but may also end with those disruptions being suppressed and crushed. This article uses Layoun’s ideas to inform a close reading of two recent novels written in Arabic, both of which depict Muslim-Jewish amatory relations in a way that counters stereotypical ideas about how such relationships are seen in the Arab world.
Leader-Based Collective Bargaining: Cooperation Mechanism and Incentive Analysis
Authors: Hsu Vernon N. , Lai Guoming , Niu Baozhuang , Xiao Wenqiang
Published: November 2016

We study leader-based collective bargaining (LCB), under which a leading buyer (leader) and a following buyer (follower) form an alliance to jointly purchase a common component from a supplier. Although the leader and the follower cooperate in their component purchase, they compete in selling their end products. We first analyze the most common and simple form of LCB, equal price LCB, under which the follower pays to the leader the same wholesale price that the leader obtains from his negotiation with the supplier. We compare each buyer’s profit under the equal price LCB with the benchmark where each buyer purchases separately from the supplier. We find that although the alliance might obtain a lower wholesale price and although the leader is always better off under equal price LCB, the follower can be worse off if the competition intensity of the leader’s and follower’s products is within an intermediate region. We identify a competition effect resulting from equal price LCB that can place the follower at a disadvantage in the competition. This finding implies that the equal price LCB might not be sustainable in practice. In view of this limitation, we investigate an alternative form of LCB, fixed price LCB, under which the follower pays a fixed price to the leader regardless of the wholesale price the leader obtains from the supplier. We show that fixed price LCB benefits not only the leader but also the follower, compared with separate purchases, which implies that fixed price LCB always achieves a win–win outcome for the buyers. Our analysis further shows that even the supplier might benefit from this form of LCB.
Two-Way Bounded Dynamic Programming Approach for Operations Planning in Transshipment Yards
Authors: Otto Alena , Li Xiyu , Pesch Erwin
Published: November 2016

We propose a two-way bounded dynamic programming (TBDP) approach to deal with situations, when it takes a long time to evaluate the value function in the state graph of dynamic programming. TBDP provides sharp bounds early in the solution process and identifies critical subproblems, i.e., states and transition arcs, for which the value function has to be estimated.

Based on the TBDP framework, we develop a heuristic and an exact algorithm for the static crane scheduling problem (SCSP). The SCSP refers to simultaneous yard partitioning into single-crane areas and job sequencing at railway container transshipment yards, where both rail-rail and rail-road transshipments are present and rail-rail moves are short. The designed exact solution algorithm solves instances of practically relevant size within acceptable time limits. The proposed heuristic finds optimal solutions in 90% of the cases. We recommend using the heuristic algorithm for planning very large transshipment yards, with more than five tracks and a large number of container moves per crane.
Business growth hacking: using trackable and testable methods to pursue growth
Authors: Ratcliffe Jason
Published: November 2016

Offering a product that does not resonate with your target audience can be detrimental to your clinic. By applying a different mindset and scientific rigor, costly failed product launches can be avoided. Jason Ratcliffe discusses a proactive approach to product design and promotion, and argues that marketing should be at the heart of creating new products for your brand, not an afterthought
Magnetic Resonance Studies of Wood Log-Drying Processes
Authors: Lamason Clevan , MacMillan Bryce , Balcom Bruce , Leblon Brigitte , Pirouz Zarin
Published: November 2016

Spatially resolved measurements of moisture content (MC) in black spruce (Picea mariana Mill.) logs were undertaken by unilateral magnetic resonance (UMR) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The goal of this study was to understand drying behaviors of the different regions in black spruce wood logs. Results indicate that water is lost from the entire length of the log as drying progresses. Diffusive drying from both sapwood and heartwood was observed at the log ends. The most significant drying in the log interior was through the bark. The magnetic resonance signal has an amplitude that depends on water content and a lifetime that depends on the water environment, namely, cell wall or cell lumen. The UMR measurement distinguished signal from cell wall and lumen water. The MRI measurement spatially resolved, in 3D, total water content in the wood. This was important in order to differentiate the water content and drying behavior in sapwood and heartwood. The MC in the black spruce sapwood was significantly higher than the MC in the heartwood. The water content in the cell wall does not change significantly until lumen water is depleted.
Between philosophy and art: A collaboration at The Lock-Up, Newcastle
Authors: McMahon Jennifer A. , Coleman Elizabeth Burns , Macarthur David , Phillips James , Sturmer Daniel Von
Published: November 2016

At The Lock-Up in Newcastle one weekend in September 2015, a group of artists, musicians and performers, performed to an audience which included philosopher commentators. The idea was to look for points of intersection, interface or divergence between art and philosophy. However, what we found was that the commentators were not engaged in analysing what was simply given them, but instead actively constructing the meaning they would ascribe to the work. As such they were co-creators. The objective of this report of the event is to establish a basis for more collaboration between art and philosophy in the future on the assumption that interdisciplinarity reveals possibilities and perspectives masked by the general insularity of well-established disciplines.
Reviews Books
Authors: Blankenship Paige , Nalbantoglu Karsu , Wassil Rachel , Methven Tanner
Published: November 2016

World Film Locations: Sydney, Neil Mitchell, ed., (2015)

Bristol: Intellect Books, 128pp., ISBN: 978-1-78320-362-8 (pbk), $22.00

The Documentary Film Book, Brian Winston, (2013)

London: British Film Institute, 416 pp., ISBN 9781844573417 (pbk), $40.00, ISBN: 9781844573424 (hbk), $95.00

The Reality of Film: Theories of Filmic Reality, Richard Rushton, (2011)

Manchester: Manchester University Press, 218 pp., ISBN: 0719091373 (pbk), $28.95, ISBN: 0719082684 (hbk), $90.00

Bollywood’s India: A Public Fantasy, Priya Joshi, (2015)

New York: Columbia University Press, 216 pp., ISBN: 9780231169615 (pbk), $30.00; ISBN: 9780231169608 (hbk), $90.00
Reviews DVD/Blu-ray
Authors: Ruiz-Poveda Cristina , Wellens Austin , Gentry Jackson R. , Okamoto Brianna
Published: November 2016

Five Easy Pieces (1970) USA Director Bob Rafelson Runtime 98 minutes

Blu-ray USA, 2015 Distributed by The Criterion Collection (region A/1)

L’eclisse (1962) Italy Director Michelangelo Antonioni Runtime 126 minutes

Blu-ray/DVD USA, 2014 Produced and Distributed by the Criterion Collection (region A/1)

Come Together… A Beatles Tribute Documentary (2008)

USA Director Steve Ison & John Scofield Runtime 54 minutes

DVD USA, 2014 Distributed by Devolver Digital Films (region 1)

Spring (2014) USA Directors Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead Runtime 109 minutes

Streaming USA, 2015 Distributed by Draft House Films
Feminisms: Diversity, Difference and Multiplicity in Contemporary Film Cultures, Laura Mulvey and Anna Backman Rogers (eds) (2015)
Authors: Walsh Maria
Published: November 2016

Amsterdam: Amsterdam University Press, 276 pp., ISBN: 9789089646767, p/bk, €39.95
Video Void, Australian Video Art, Matthew Perkins (ed.) (2014)
Authors: Ball Steven
Published: November 2016

Melbourne: Australian Scholarly Publishing, 145 pp., ISBN: 978-1-925003-79-6, p/bk, A$49.95
The interval and the instant: Inscribing death and dying
Authors: Eastwood Steven
Published: November 2016

Non-fiction filming involving death and dying has taboo status in terms of what western society can and cannot sanction – the image of dying is not something we should see, or even want to see. As a consequence, there is very little film-making done with the consent and collaboration of the dying person and there are few moving images of natural or good deaths. The documentary film-makers and artists who have navigated this difficult ethical territory, engendering a space where dying and death can be given images, have done so by adopting a way of seeing, and being with, the terminally ill person that has some confederacy with the practices of the palliative care professional. Drawing upon the writing of Vivian Sobchack and Ernest Becker, as well as Giorgio Agamben’s theory of bare life, and particularly Emmanuel Levinas and his concept of alterity, the article concentrates on art and film that turns to face death and dying. Moving through narrative cinema, observational documentary and artists’ film, and examining specific film works by Stan Brakhage, Sophie Calle, Kirby Dick, Allan King and Bill Viola, among others, the complex area between ethics and aesthetics is explored, suggesting that in the context of film and death there can be an ethics of aesthetics.
Installation and the Moving Image, Catherine Elwes (2015)
Authors: Knowles Kim
Published: November 2016

New York and London: Wallflower Press and Columbia University Press, 304 pp., ISBN: 978 0 231 17451 0, p/bk, £19.00
‘Electronic Superhighway’, curated by Omar Kholeif
Authors: O’Kane Paul
Published: November 2016

Whitechapel Gallery, London 29 January–15 May 2016
Expanded cinema: Notes on twentieth-century encounters with art, science and technology
Authors: Welsby Chris
Published: November 2016

This article will suggest that the conceptual framework of expanded cinema in the mid-twentieth century, particularly the radical performances of the UK-based Filmaktion group, has parallels in the scientific formulations of the time. The argument will be made that the intellectual breadth of the movement extends beyond the limitations of the art world and that the work produced made an important contribution to the history of ideas and, as such, belongs to the larger body of twentieth-century thought. The era was marked by unprecedented technological change, from mechanical innovation when cinema was in its infancy, through the advent of electronic communication systems to the proliferation of accessible computer technology and the de-militarization of the Internet. In both the arts and sciences the changes that accompanied these developments can be characterized as a shift away from the static representations of nature during the nineteenth century towards a more dynamic, process-based description of the world made possible by the introduction of high-speed computer technology. Reference will be made to sociologist/philosopher of science Andrew Pickering’s observation of a transition in the sciences from the ‘representational’ models of the late nineteenth century to the ‘performative’ models of the present day, which will be shown to run parallel to a similar shift in twentieth century art practice. Drawing on Norbert Weiner’s theory of cybernetics, quantum mechanics, chaos theory, the ideas of Gregory Bateson and the ‘embodied’ sciences, which began to evolve at this time, the discussion will link these scientific developments to the expanded cinematic works of artists such as Annabel Nicolson, Malcolm le Grice, William Raban, Anthony McCall and Lis Rhodes, and to new media artists such as David Rokeby, Lise Autogena, Thomson & Craighead and Susan Collins. The article will seek to demonstrate that expanded cinema helped turn the moving image into a truly twentieth century art form, establishing a strong conceptual foundation for the process-based practices of the 1980s and 1990s and anticipating the embodied science and new media works of the contemporary period.
DESIGN PARAMETERS OF BUFFER STOPS
Authors: Guziur Petr
Published: November 2016

Paper discuses reasons of building buffer stops and situations that may occur in railway station leading to build safety tracks. Also discusses parameters of buffer stops that enter its design, such as collision speed and kinetic energy absorbing capacity. Furthermore, presents categories of
buffer stops depending on principles of absorbing the kinetic energy and points pros and cons of each structure.
Online Reading support Systems for Reading Japanese Text
Authors: Toyoda Etsuko
Published: November 2016

[This section does not allow copy & paste. I have copied the abstract of my paper manually].

 

Websites written in the target language abound for L2 learners to read. Reading unmodified texts in a L2, however, requires a great level of reading ability, especially in the case where L1 is orthographically and syntactically distant from the target language. Thus, it is essential to have an effective computerised reading support system that gives L2 readers sufficient information for comprehension, and that, at the same time, assists in the development of reading ability for future reading. This study analysed four support systems for reading Japanese texts based on criteria supported by previous research findings, in order to determine whether they cover a wide range of information useful for reading comprehension and for the development of reading ability. The results revealed the strengths and weaknesses of the four although none of the four satisfied all the criteria. The paper discusses possible improvements and any potential difficulties that may hinder them.
Spacetime Exterior to a Star: Against Asymptotic Flatness
Authors: Roberts Mark D.
Published: November 2016

In many circumstances the perfect fluid conservation equations can be directly integrated to give a geometric-thermodynamic equation: typically that the lapse N is the reciprocal of the enthalphy h, (N = 1/h). This result is aesthetically appealing as it depends only on the fluid conservation equations and does not depend on specific field equations such as Einstein's. Here the form of the geometric-thermodynamic equation is derived subject to spherical symmetry and also for the shift-free ADM formalism. There at least three applications of the geometric-thermodynamic equation, the most important being to the notion of asymptotic flatness and hence to spacetime exterior to a star. For asymptotic flatness one wants h → 0 and N → 1 simultaneously, but this is incompatible with the geometric-thermodynamic equation. Observational data and asymptotic flatness are discussed. It is argued that a version of Mach's principle does not allow asymptotic flatness.
Variations in State Laws Governing School Reintegration Following Concussion
Authors: Thompson Leah L. , Lyons Vivian H. , McCart Melissa , Herring Stanley A. , Rivara Frederick P. , Vavilala Monica S.
Published: November 2016

OBJECTIVE:

We sought to examine the prevalence, scope, and specificity of provisions governing school reintegration in current state concussion laws.

METHODS:

State concussion laws as of May 2016 were independently assessed and classified by 2 trained coders. Statutes were classified as “Return-to-Learn” (RTL) laws if they contained language mandating institutional action at the state, district, or school level related to academic reintegration of youth who have sustained a concussion. All statutes classified as RTL laws were further analyzed to determine scope, required actions, and delineation of responsibility.

RESULTS:

RTL laws were uncommon, present in only 8 states. Most (75%) of these laws held schools responsible for RTL management but mandated RTL education for school personnel was less frequent, present in only one-quarter of the laws. None of the RTL laws provided guidance on support of students with persistent postconcussive symptoms, and only 1 recommended an evidence-based standard for RTL guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our review of state concussion laws indicates scant and vague legal guidance regarding RTL. These findings suggest an opportunity for legislative action on the issue of RTL, and reveal the need for better integration of laws and research, so that laws reflect existing best-practice recommendations and remain current as the evidence base develops.
Flavored Electronic Cigarette Use and Smoking Among Youth
Authors: Dai Hongying , Hao Jianqiang
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Flavored electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are not prohibited in the United States, and e-cigarette flavors proliferate on the market. This study sought to examine flavored e-cigarette use and its association with smoking among youth.

METHODS:

Estimates of flavored e-cigarette use from the 2014 National Youth Tobacco Survey were investigated. A logistic regression model was used to assess whether flavored e-cigarette use was associated with (1) intention to initiate cigarette use among never-smoking youth (n = 16 471), (2) intention to quit tobacco use among current-smoking youth (n = 1338), and (3) perception of tobacco’s danger among all respondents (n = 21 491).

RESULTS:

A total of 2017 respondents reported using e-cigarettes in the last 30 days, of whom 1228 (60.9%) reported using flavored e-cigarettes. Among never-smoking youth, 55.6% (288) of current e-cigarette users reported using flavored e-cigarettes. Among current smokers, 68.4% (495) of current e-cigarette users reported using flavored e-cigarettes. Compared with not using e-cigarettes in the past 30 days, using flavored e-cigarettes was associated with higher odds of intention to initiate cigarette use among never-smoking youth (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 5.7; P < .0001), lower odds of intention to quit tobacco use among current-smoking youth (aOR = 0.6; P = .006), and a lower prevalence of perception of tobacco’s danger among all respondents (aOR = 0.5; P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Flavored e-cigarette use is associated with increased risks of smoking among youth. Comprehensive tobacco control and prevention strategies that address flavored e-cigarette products are critically needed to reduce tobacco use among youth.
The Social Currency of Imagination: The Arts in Leading Change
Authors: Woodward Alpha M
Published: November 2016

A short personal reflection of how aesthetic and artistic abilities offer resilience for social change and personal transformational experiences.
Arts and Health: A New Paradigm
Authors: Moss Hilary
Published: November 2016

This position paper presents a new paradigm about the intrinsic structure and nature of arts and health practice. This paradigm is based on a variety of research experiences over twenty years working as a music therapist, musician, music and health practitioner, researcher and director of an arts and health programme in university teaching hospitals, community contexts, and non-governmental organizations in Ireland and the UK.The aim of this paper is to propose a new perspective on the term arts and health, to encompass all arts related activity that exists in contexts related to health. This paradigm aims to counter the artificial and defensive barriers constructed between practitioners and professional groups within the field, encourage greater respect and understanding between practitioners and assist in identifying training and development needs for the various arts professionals working in contexts related to health and well-being. It is proposed that the current commonly held assumptions surrounding definitions of arts and health and arts therapies are unhelpful and problematic and should be refined.
Neo-colonialism In Music Therapy: A Critical Interpretive Synthesis of the Literature Concerning Music Therapy Practice With Refugees
Authors: Comte Rachael
Published: November 2016

This paper presents the findings from a critical interpretive synthesis that explored the assumptions influencing music therapists writing about their work with refugees. Music therapy literature suggests that the profession appears to be uniquely suited to address the healthcare needs of the refugee population by transcending cultural and language barriers which often mitigate access to other services. However, when working with individuals characterised by trauma and whose identities have been dictated by political power, it is essential that music therapy practices oppose these forces and provide opportunities for empowerment. Therefore, eleven papers describing music therapy practice with refugees from the international literature were examined and interrogated to determine the assumptions embedded within the language used by music therapists. The synthetic construct of a neo-colonial music therapist emerged from the data and informed subsequent analysis. The concepts of refugees as a homogenous group defined by a dominant narrative of trauma, and musical improvisation as a universal language appeared to be influential in the ways music therapists were reporting on their work. These findings are discussed along with considerations for a music therapy practice that promotes empowerment and advocates for the voices of the refugee population.
Finite Metabelian Group Algebras
Authors: Gupta Shalini
Published: November 2016

Given a finite metabelian group G, whose central quotient is abelian (not cyclic) group of order p2, p odd prime, the objective of this paper is to obtain a complete algebraic structure of semisimple group algebra Fq[G] in terms of primitive central idempotents, Wedderburn decomposition and the automorphism group.
Internet Addiction and Loneliness Among Students of University of Shkodra
Authors: Hasmujaj Elona
Published: November 2016

Internet addiction is a kind of consumer behavior that has attracted the attention of many studies. Loneliness is a frequently reported mental illness addicted to the internet. Lonely individuals may be drawn online because of the increased potential for companionship, the changed social interaction patterns online, and as a way to modulate negative moods associated with loneliness. This study examines the relationship between internet addiction and loneliness among albanian students of University of Shkodra and the gender differences to this aspect. The participants to the research were 151 students from 18-23 years old, who live in different places of North Albania. In order to trace the connection between loneliness and Internet addiction among students was used the self-administered questionnaires: Internet Addiction Test (IAT) and UCLA Loneliness Scale. The research has shown that there is a mild negative correlation between loneliness and Internet addiction, on the other hand no gender differences was found in terms of internet addiction and loneliness level. The results suggest that students addicted to the Internet have significantly lower rates of loneliness.
“Obtención De Compost A Partir De Residuos Sólidos Orgánicos Generados En El Mercado Mayorista Del Cantón Riobamba”
Authors: Hanníbal Brito , Rafaela Viteri , Luis Guevara , Mario Villacrés , Janeth Jara , Silvio Jiménez , Paola Moya , Carina Parra
Published: November 2016

The process of obtaining compost was developed at the Agroambiental Ricpamba theme park administrated by the Autonomous Municipal Government of Riobamba (GADM, where an organic fertilizer was obtained from solid waste generated in the wholesale market of the city of Riobamba in order to be use in parks, gardens, green spaces and in agriculture, for which, a stack of 1,0 tonne was armed formed with fixed proportions in relation to weight / weight from three organic components of plant type: Organic solid waste wholesale market (600 kg), tree pruning waste of the Polytechnic School of Chimborazo (300 kg), and prunings waste of ornamental palm (Phoenix canariensis) from the city of Riobamba (100 kg) To achieve adequate carbon nitrogen ratio (C/N). The compost was performed using an open stack system and manual turning; during the process a daily control of temperature and humidity was performed, besides that during each dump material samples were taken for analysis of the most important parameters, thus controlling the process. The temperature evolution of the stack in the mesophilic phase reached 45 °C and thermophilic phase temperature was above 60 °C, which was controlled with manual turns. Once the process was finished the quality of the compost was proved by the physical-chemical analysis, chemical-biological to determine its quality. Additionally the solid waste generated in the Public Municipal Market of “San Pedro de Riobamba” (EP-EMMPA) were classified and quantified on a daily basis. The solid waste were classified in 6 groups: organic, plastics, paper, cardboard, wood and others, being organic waste the ones found in a greater amount, in an average of 95.59%. The obtained product has the right physical-chemical, chemical-biological property to be used as an organic fertilizer or soil improver by providing essential nutrients, macro and micro elements required by plants.